BACKGROUND

The present invention relates to a carton, and in particular, a carton having a sloping face.

The present invention is particularly, although not exclusively, directed to a carton having a sloping face at at least one end thereof, which may be more readily erected using a machine. Previously known cartons including a sloping face have required manual steps to be performed in order to erect the carton.

The present invention also extends to a blank for use in obtaining a carton in accordance with the invention in any of its aspects or embodiments, and a method of erecting the blank.

The packaging is made of a foldable sheet material, such as cardboard, paperboard, or other lightweight foldable sheet material. Any suitable foldable sheet material may be used, for example a plastic sheet material may be used.

SUMMARY

From a first aspect of the invention there is provided;

a carton having a first end and a second end, a plurality of side panels, and a sloping face at the first end of the carton, wherein the sloping face is defined by a first triangular lid panel at the first end of the carton, wherein a first edge of the first triangular lid panel is connected along a foldline to the end of a first one of the side panels at the first end of the carton, the carton further comprising a second triangular lid panel at the first end of the carton providing an end face for the carton at the first end of the carton, wherein a first edge of the second triangular lid panel is connected to a second edge of the first triangular lid panel along a foldline, the carton further comprising a plurality of lid support panels underlying the first and second triangular lid panels at the first end of the carton.

It has been found that providing first and second triangular lid panels, one for providing an end face i.e. endmost face of the carton at the first end thereof, and one for providing a sloping face of the carton at the first end, with the first and second triangular lid panels being attached along respective foldlines to a first side panel of the carton, and to each other, results in a carton with a sloping face which may be readily erected by a machine. The first and second triangular lid panels are folded along the respective foldlines connecting them to the first side panel of the carton and to each other, and used to close the open first end of the carton during assembly thereof. In some embodiments, the first triangular lid panel may provide the only sloping face of the carton. However, in other embodiments the carton comprises a sloping face at a second end thereof.

A first edge of the first triangular lid panel, which defines the sloping face of the carton at the first end thereof, is connected to the end of a first one of the plurality of side panels along a foldline at the first end of the carton, and preferably to the end edge of the first side panel. The foldline preferably defines an end edge of the first side panel. The foldline preferably extends between and connects the side edges of the first side panel. The first edge of the first triangular lid panel preferably extends along the entire length of the end edge of the first side panel. The foldline along which the first edge of the first triangular lid panel is connected to the end of the first side panel is preferably an inclined foldline. The end edge of the first side panel is therefore preferably inclined. The side edges of the first side panel are connected, preferably along foldlines, to respective adjacent side panels. The foldline along which the first edge of the first triangular lid panel is connected to the end of the first side panel may extend between and connect longer and shorter side edges of the first panel. The first side panel further comprises an end edge at the second end of the carton. The end edge at the second end may be defined by a foldline which may connect the first side panel to one of a plurality of panels which provide a closed second end of the carton.

The first side panel to which the first triangular lid panel is connected may be a trapezoidal panel. A trapezoidal panel as referred to herein has one pair of parallel sides. In some embodiments the first side panel may be a right angled trapezoidal panel. The side edges of the panel then define right angles with an end edge of the panel at the second end of the carton. However, in other embodiments, for example, where the second end of the carton also includes a sloping face, the edge of the first side panel at the second end of the carton may be an inclined edge. The first edge of the first triangular lid panel is connected along a foldline to the end of the first side panel at the first end of the carton, and a second one of the edges of the first triangular lid panel is connected along a foldline to a first edge of the second triangular lid panel. The third edge of the first triangular lid panel is preferably a free edge. A free edge as defined herein refers to an edge which is not connected to another panel along a foldline. The edge will be an unattached edge in the blank from which the carton is assembled, but may be secured to another e.g. panel, such as by adhesive, in the erected carton. Preferably the third edge of the second triangular lid panel is free from tabs or flaps. Preferably no construction formations thus extend from the third edge of the second triangular lid panel.

A first edge of the second triangular lid panel is connected along a foldline to the second edge of the first triangular lid panel. The other edges of the second triangular lid panel are preferably free edges. Preferably the other edges of the second triangular lid panel are free from tabs or flaps. Preferably no construction formations thus extend from the other edges of the second triangular lid panel.

The second triangular lid panel is preferably in the form of a flap.

The second triangular lid panel preferably provides a flat i.e. non-sloping end face to the carton at the first end thereof. The second triangular lid panel provides an endmost face to the carton at the first end thereof. The first triangular lid panel may slope away from the second triangular lid panel in a direction towards the second end of the carton.

It will be appreciated that the first and second triangular lid panels may be of any suitable dimensions. The configuration of the first and second triangular lid panels may be selected as appropriate based on the desired shape and

configuration of the carton. The second triangular lid panel may be of smaller area than the first triangular lid panel. In some embodiments the second triangular lid panel is a right angled triangle. The second and third edges of the second triangular lid panel may then meet one another at approximately 90 degrees.

In the carton, the first triangular lid panel preferably extends between and connects the first side panel and an adjacent i.e. second one of the side panels at the first end of the carton. The third edge of the first triangular lid panel preferably extends along an end edge of the second side panel at the first end of the carton, and preferably along the entire length thereof. The end edge of the second side panel is preferably inclined. The third edge of the first triangular lid panel preferably extends between and connects the side edges of the second side panel. The side edges of the second side panel connect the second side panel to adjacent side panels, and are preferably defined by respective foldlines connecting the second side panel to the adjacent side panels. The end edge of the second side panel at the first end of the carton may connect longer and shorter side edges of the second side panel. The second side panel further comprises an end edge at the second end of the carton. The end edge at the second end of the carton may be defined by a foldline which may connect the second side panel to one of a plurality of panels which provides a closed second end of the carton.

The second side panel is preferably a trapezoidal panel. The second side panel may be a right angled trapezoidal panel. The side edges of the panel then define right angles with a bottom edge of the panel. However, in other

embodiments, for example, where the second end of the carton also includes a sloping face, the edge of the second side panel at the second end of the carton may be an inclined edge.

The first triangular lid panel may define a point closest to the second end of the carton corresponding to the point at which the first and third edges of the first triangular panel meet. The point may correspond to the end of the line (e.g. a foldline) connecting the side edges of the first and second side panels of the carton which is closest to the first end of the carton.

In preferred embodiments in which the first and third edge of the first triangular lid panel are connected to inclined edges of the first and second side panels respectively at the first end of the carton, the inclined edges may be inclined toward the second end of the carton to meet at the end of a line e.g. a foldline connecting the side edges of the adjacent first and second side panels which is closest to the first end of the carton. Where the first and second side panels each comprise longer and shorter side edges, the line defines the shorter side edges of the first and second side panels. The end edges of the first and second side panels at the first end of the carton extend toward the second end of the carton from apexes corresponding to the ends of opposite (longer) side edges of the first and second panels at the first end of the carton. Where the first and second side panels are each trapezoidal in shape, they may be connected to one another along the shorter parallel sides of the trapezoids.

The second triangular lid panel preferably extends between and connects two (further) side panels of the carton, e.g. the third and fourth side panels. The second and third edges of the second triangular lid panel may extend along the end edges of the third and fourth side panels respectively at the first end of the carton. The two further side panels are preferably connected respectively e.g. along foldlines to the first and second side panels.

In preferred embodiments two adjacent ones of the side panels of the carton, the first and second side panels, are trapezoidal (having one set of parallel sides, being the side edges), and the carton comprises a further two adjacent side panels (the third and fourth side panels) which are parallelograms (having two sets of parallel sides, being the side edges and the end edges at the first and second ends of the carton respectively). The first triangular lid panel preferably extends between and connects the trapezoidal side panels (preferably connecting the end edges of the trapezoidal side panels at the first end of the carton), and the second triangular lid panel preferably extends between and connects the parallelogram shaped side panels, (preferably connecting the end edges of the parallelogram shaped side panels at the first end of the carton). It will be understood that such arrangements are merely exemplary. Preferably the carton has four side panels.

The side panels of the carton may differ in size, even where they are of the same general shape. The dimensions of the side panels should be selected as appropriate to provide a desired configuration of carton.

It will be appreciated that the shape of the side panels may depend upon whether the second end of the carton includes a sloping face. If a sloping face is present at the second end, the ends of the side panels at the second end of the carton may be shaped in a corresponding manner to the side panels at the first end of the carton to allow them to be associated with a corresponding arrangement of triangular lid panels and lid support panels. As discussed below, any triangular lid panels provided at the second end of the carton may be associated with the same or different side panels to those with which the triangular lid panels at the first end of the carton are associated.

Preferably, where the carton comprises first, second, third and fourth side panels, one of the third and fourth side panels comprises a glue flap extending along a side edge thereof, which is connected to the other one of the third and fourth side panels. This creates the closed sides of the carton. Preferably a third side panel adjacent the second side panel comprises the glue flap. The glue flap may then underlie the fourth side panel. Thus, in exemplary embodiments, the carton comprises, first, second, third and fourth side panels, the first and second side panels being connected to one another along a foldline, the second and third side panels being connected to one another along a foldline, and the first and fourth side panels being connected to one another along a foldline, the third and fourth side panels being connected to one another (in the assembled carton) through attachment of the glue flap of the third side panel to the fourth side panel. Of course, any other suitable arrangement may be used. The glue flap may be attached to the other one of the third and fourth side panels, or glue flaps may be attached to each of the third and fourth side panels. Alternatively or additionally, a different pair or pairs of the adjacent side panels may be connected to one another by foldlines, with different ones of the panels being connected using a glue flap or flaps. The side panels may be provided by a plurality of blanks connected to one another.

In accordance with any of its aspects or embodiments, the carton further comprises a plurality of lid support panels underlying the first and second triangular lid panels at the first end of the carton. Preferably each lid support panel is in the form of a flap. Any suitable arrangement of lid support panels may be used to support the first and second triangular lid panels. At least one lid support panel underlies the first triangular lid panel, and at least one lid support panel underlies the second triangular lid panel. At least some of the lid support panels may overlap one another.

In some embodiments a plurality of lid support panels underlie the second triangular lid panel. The plurality of lid support panels underlying the second triangular lid panel are preferably overlapping lid support panels. The overlap is at least a partial overlap, and may be only a partial overlap. However, it is envisaged that one or more lid support panel underlying the second triangular lid panel may extend over i.e. overlap the entire area of another lid support panel underlying the second triangular lid panel. Multiple overlapping lid support panels may provide greater support to the second triangular lid panel, and hence the end face of the carton. In embodiments a single lid support panel underlies the first triangular lid panel. In some embodiments a single lid support panel underlies the first triangular lid panel and a plurality of lid support panels underlie the second triangular lid panel.

The lid support panel or panels may extend over the entire area of the overlying first or second triangular lid panel, or over only a portion thereof. Any suitable arrangement may be used which provides a desired level of support. In preferred embodiments the one or more (and preferably plurality) of lid support panels underlying the second triangular lid panel extend over the entire area thereof. It will be appreciated that in such embodiments, each lid support panel, where a plurality of lid support panels are provided, may extend over only a portion of the area of the second triangular lid panel with the lid support panels together extending over the entire area of the lid panel. In embodiments the or each lid support panel (and, preferably only a single lid support panel) underlying the first triangular lid support panel extends over only a portion of the area thereof.

The first and second triangular lid panels are preferably adhesively secured to respective ones of the lid support panels. A given lid support panel may, and typically does, underlie only one of the first and second triangular lid panels.

Each lid support panel is preferably associated with a respective side panel of the carton, and is preferably connected e.g. along a foldline to the side panel. Each lid support panel is preferably connected to the end edge of its respective side panel at the first end of the carton. In embodiments, the carton comprises a plurality of further side panels in addition to the first side panel, and a lid support panel is connected to i.e. the end edge of each of a plurality of the further side panels of the carton at the first end of the carton, and preferably to each such further side panel. Preferably a single lid support panel is connected to each further side panel having a lid support panel connected thereto. Preferably the carton comprises first, second, third and fourth side panels, and first, second and third lid support panels are connected to the second, third and fourth side panels respectively. Each lid support panel is preferably connected to its respective side panel along a respective foldline. It has been found that providing one lid support panel in respect of the end edge of each of a plurality of, or each, further side panel, at the first end of the carton, may facilitate folding of the lid support panels into position using a machine.

In general, at least two lid support panels are provided, and preferably at least three lid support panels are provided. In some embodiments, there may be one less lid support panel than the number of side panels of the carton, with lid support panels being associated with the end of each of the side panels at the first end of the carton other than the first side panel having the first triangular lid panel connected thereto.

It will be appreciated that a lid support panel need not extend along the entire length of the end edge of a side panel with which it is associated. For example, in some exemplary embodiments with first to fourth side panels and first to third lid support panels, the second and third lid support panels extend over the entire length of the end edge of the third and fourth side panels respectively at the first end of the carton, but the first lid support panel only extends along a portion of the length of the end edge of the second panel at the first end of the carton. The extent of a lid support panel along an end edge of a side panel may be selected as desired to facilitate folding and handling of the lid support panel, and location of the respective triangular lid panel thereover.

The lid support panels may or may not overlap one another to provide support to the first and second triangular lid panels. Where overlap is present, this may be at least partial overlap, and need not (although may) be full overlap. In some embodiments there is overlap between at least some of the lid support panels e.g. where first, second and third lid support panels are provided connected to second, third and fourth side panels, an overlap may be present

between the second and third lid support panels. In some embodiments having first, second and third lid support panels, one of the second and third lid support panels overlies the other of the second and third lid support panels. In preferred embodiments the second lid support panel overlies the third lid support panel. The second lid support panel may overlap at least a portion, and preferably only a portion of the third lid support panel. In embodiments, there is no overlap between the first lid support panel and either of the second or third lid support panels. The second triangular lid panel may overlie both the second and third support panels. The first triangular lid panel may overlie the first lid support panel. In embodiments the second triangular lid panel does not overlie the first lid support panel and the first triangular lid support panel does not overlie the second or the third lid support panel. In preferred embodiments the first and second triangular lid panels overlie, and are preferably adhesively secured, to respective ones of the lid support panels.

While in the above embodiments, the securing of the triangular lid panels to the respective lid support panel(s), or, in some cases, the securement of the lid support panel(s) to one another, has been described as an adhesive attachment, any suitable attachment may be used e.g. thermal etc. Thus, any reference to adhesive securement may be replaced by a reference to "securement" in general. However, preferably adhesive attachment is used. An adhesive securement between a triangular lid panel and an underlying lid support panel may be achieved through applying adhesive to either or both of the lid panel and the lid support panel, although in some embodiments, adhesive is applied only to the lid support panels, and not to the triangular lid panels themselves.

In exemplary embodiments having first, second and third lid support panels, the second lid support panel (i.e. the underside thereof) may be in surface to surface contact with at least a portion (e.g. only a portion) of the third lid support panel, and is optionally adhesively secured to the at least a portion of the third lid support panel. The second triangular lid panel (i.e. the underside thereof) may be in surface to surface contact with at least a portion of the second lid support panel, and preferably the entire surface thereof, and is preferably adhesively secured to the at least a portion of the second lid support panel. The second triangular lid panel may additionally be in surface to surface contact with at least a portion of the third lid support panel, and preferably only a portion thereof, and is optionally is adhesively secured to the at least a portion of the third lid support panel. The first triangular lid panel (i.e. the underside thereof) is in surface to surface contact with at least a portion of the first lid support panel, and preferably the entire surface thereof, and is preferably adhesively secured thereto.

The lid support panels may be of any suitable shape, and may vary in shape. For example, the lid support panels may be triangular, or four sided, or a combination thereof. For example, the lid support panels may each be either trapezoidal or triangular in shape. The lid support panels may include at least one triangular panel and at least one trapezoidal panel. In some embodiments having first to third lid support panels, the first support panel is triangular, and the second and third lid support panels are trapezoidal. However, other arrangements may be used e.g. all three lid support panels may be trapezoidal. Trapezoidal lid support panels may differ in size and shape.

It will be appreciated that the configuration of the lid support panels, and the way in which they are used to support the first and second triangular lid panels e.g. including factors such as the extent of the area of the triangular lid panels which overlaps lid support panel(s), which panels overlap one another, the extent of any overlap, or even whether any overlap is present, the sequence of folding of the lid support panels, and the location of any securement between lid support panels and/or the triangular lid panels, may vary depending upon e.g. the configuration of the carton, and the nature of the machinery used to assemble the carton.

It is desirable that no lid support panel underlying the second triangular lid panel extends over the second foldine connecting the second triangular lid panel to the first triangular lid panel in the assembled carton. Preferably the or each lid support panel underlying the second triangular lid panel has an edge which is aligned with a line extending across the interior of the carton at the first end i.e. a diagonal line. The line may extend between and connect the side panels to which the lid support panels are connected. It will be appreciated that the edge of the or each lid support panel aligned with the line will be a free edge thereof. The edges may be aligned so as to define a continuous line. Preferably a plurality of lid support panels are provided underlying the second triangular lid panel having edges aligned with one another along the (same) line. Preferably the line does not extend beyond, and most preferably corresponds to the position of the foldline connecting the second triangular lid panel to the first triangular lid panel (in the assembled carton). The line then connects corners of the second triangular lid panel. Preferably a plurality of lid support panels are provided underlying the second triangular lid panel having edges aligned with one another along a line corresponding to the position of the foldline connecting the second triangular lid panel to the first triangular lid panel (in the assembled carton). Thus, edges of the second and third lid support panels in embodiments having first to third lid support panels preferably align in this manner. This is desirable to enable the lid support panel(s) to support the second triangular lid panel but without the folded lid support panels interfering with the ability to fold the second triangular lid panel along the foldline connecting the second triangular lid panel to the first triangular lid panel for use in closing the first end of the carton. The size and shape of the lid support panels is preferably selected to enable them to be aligned in this manner. It will be appreciated that the alignment refers to the alignment when the lid support panels are folded in the assembled carton. The shape and configuration of the lid support panels underlying the second triangular lid panel may vary, and may be chosen as desired, but is preferably such as to provide the above described alignment of the edges of the panels.

In a similar manner, preferably the lid support panel underlying the first triangular lid panel e.g. the first lid support panel does not extend over the foldline connecting the second triangular lid panel to the first triangular lid panel.

The second end of the carton is preferably a closed second end. The first and second ends of the carton are opposite ends. The second end of the carton may be provided by a plurality of panels. In some embodiments the panels are connected to different ones of the plurality of sidewalls along respective foldlines, and preferably a panel for use in providing the closed second end of the carton is connected to each one of the side panels of the carton. In some embodiments the second end does not include a sloping face i.e. it has a flat end. The second end may then be a rectilinear flat end. In other embodiments the second end comprises a sloping face which is preferably constructed in the same manner as the sloping face at the first end of the carton.

In embodiments the carton also has a sloping face at the second end of the carton, wherein the sloping face is defined by a first triangular lid panel at the second end of the carton, wherein a first edge of the first triangular lid panel is connected along a foldline to the end of a first one of the side panels at the second end of the carton, the carton further comprising a second triangular lid panel at the second end of the carton providing an end face for the carton at the second end of the carton, wherein a first edge of the second triangular lid panel is connected to a second edge of the first triangular lid panel along a foldline, the carton further comprising a plurality of lid support panels underlying the first and second triangular lid panels at the second end of the carton.

In these embodiments, the components used to provide the sloping face and to close the second end of the carton may include any or all of the features described in relation to the corresponding components at the first end of the carton e.g. the configuration and/or interaction of the various panels, foldlines, shape of the side panels, lid support panels etc. Thus, any feature described above in relation to a component of the first end of the carton e.g. the first triangular lid panel, second triangular lid panel, lid support panel (including a first, second or third lid support panel) etc. is equally applicable to the corresponding feature at the second end of the carton. The second end may comprise a corresponding set of panels to the first end for providing a closed end incorporating a sloping face. The second triangular lid panel at the second end of the carton may provide a flat end face i.e. endmost face at the second end of the carton. As described in relation to the first end, preferably the or each lid support panel underlying the second triangular lid panel at the second end of the carton has an edge which is aligned with a line extending across the interior of the carton at the second end i.e. a diagonal line. Preferably the line does not extend beyond, and most preferably corresponds to the position of the foldline connecting the second triangular lid panel to the first triangular lid panel at the second end of the carton (in the assembled carton). The arrangement may incorporate any of the features described in relation to the first end of the carton.

It will be appreciated that while in preferred embodiments the components are associated with the same side panels as the corresponding components at the first end of the carton e.g. the first triangular lid panel at each end is connected to the opposed ends of the same (first) side panel etc., this is not necessarily the case, and the "a first one of the side panels" at the second end of the carton need not be the first side panel to which the first triangular lid panel is connected at the first end of the carton.

In some preferred embodiments the carton is symmetrical about a transverse centreline, and preferably also about a longitudinal centreline.

In any of its aspects or embodiments the carton may be of any suitable dimensions, depending upon the intended purpose of the carton.

The carton is made from a foldable sheet material such as cardboard, paperboard or other lightweight foldable sheet material. However, any suitable sheet material may be used, for example a plastics material. The plastics material should be of appropriate rigidity to enable the material to be folded, while maintaining the shape of the carton. The carton may comprise any suitable arrangement of construction flaps or other means to retain the respective parts in its dimensional state.

The carton may be made from a number of separate parts assembled together in an appropriate manner. Preferably the carton is constructed from a blank of material. The blank is preferably a single piece blank.

As mentioned above, the carton is advantageously assembled using a fully automated process. In accordance with a further aspect of the invention there is provided a method of erecting the carton in accordance with any of the aspects or embodiments of the invention herein described from a blank of foldable sheet material, wherein the method is performed entirely by machine.

The present invention extends to a blank of foldable sheet material for making a carton in accordance with the invention in any of its aspects or embodiments, preferably wherein the blank is a single piece blank. The present invention in this further aspect may include any or all of the features described in relation to the earlier aspects and embodiments of the invention i.e. for providing a carton having any of the features earlier described. The blank comprises a plurality of side panels for providing the side panels of the erected carton, a first triangular lid panel for providing the first triangular lid panel which provides the sloping face of the carton at the first end thereof, the first triangular lid panel of the blank being connected to the end of a first one of the side panels of the blank along a foldline at an end which will be located at the first end of the carton, the blank further comprising a second triangular lid panel connected to the first triangular lid panel along a foldline for providing the second triangular lid panel providing the end face for the carton at the first end thereof, the blank further comprising a plurality of lid support panels for providing the lid support panels of the carton, the lid support panels of the blank being foldable to underlie the first and second triangular lid panels at the first end of the carton in the erected carton. It will be appreciated that each of the lid support panels underlies at least one, and preferably only one of the triangular lid panels.

The present invention also extends to a method of erecting the blank in accordance with these further aspects and embodiments of the invention to provide a carton in accordance with the invention. The method is preferably performed entirely by machine i.e. is a fully automated method. The method may comprise partially erecting the blank to provide a partially erected carton having side panels, folding the lid support panels toward the interior of the partially erected carton, folding the first triangular lid panel about the foldline connecting the first triangular lid panel to the first side panel, and folding the second triangular lid panel about the foldline connecting the second triangular lid panel to the first triangular lid panel, and securing (preferably adhesively) each of the first and second triangular lid panels to one or more lid support panel underlying the respective lid support panel to provide a closed first end to the carton. Although in the exemplary embodiments described, the securing of a triangular lid panel to underlying lid support panel(s) is achieved through adhesive applied to the underlying lid support panel(s), it is envisaged that this may alternatively be achieved through applying adhesive to the triangular lid panel alternatively or additionally to applying adhesive to the lid support panel(s).

It will be appreciated that the first and second triangular lid panels may be handled as one component, and the folding about the foldline connecting the first triangular lid panel to the first side panel, and the foldline connecting the second triangular lid panel to the first triangular lid panel may take place as part of the action of drawing the first and second triangular lid panels over the lid support panels for use in closing the end of the carton. Such a step is ideally suited to being performed by a machine.

Preferably each lid support panel is folded in turn. Preferably adhesive is applied to at least some, and optionally each lid support panel, as the lid support panel is folded.

It will also be appreciated that the first or second triangular lid support panel may be secured to one or more of the underlying lid support panels where multiple lid support panels underlie the triangular lid panel. Furthermore, in some embodiments, only a single lid support panel may underlie the or each triangular lid support panel. Various arrangements are discussed above.

In accordance with a further aspect of the invention there is provided a blank of foldable sheet material for making a carton having a first end and a second end, a plurality of side panels, and a sloping face at the first end of the carton, wherein the sloping face is defined by a first triangular lid panel at the first end of the carton, wherein a first edge of the first triangular lid panel is connected along a foldline to the end of a first one of the side panels at the first end of the carton, the carton further comprising a second triangular lid panel at the first end of the carton providing an end face for the carton, wherein a first edge of the second triangular lid panel is connected to a second edge of the first triangular lid panel along a foldline, the carton further comprising a plurality of lid support panels underlying the first and second triangular lid panels at the first end of the carton;

wherein the blank comprises a plurality of side panels for providing the side panels of the erected carton, a first triangular lid panel for providing the first triangular lid panel which provides the sloping face of the carton at the first end thereof, the first triangular lid panel of the blank being connected along a foldline to the end of a first one of the side panels of the blank at an end which will be located at the first end of the carton, the blank further comprising a second triangular lid panel connected to the first triangular lid panel along a foldline for providing the second triangular lid panel providing the end face for the carton at the first end thereof, the blank further comprising a plurality of lid support panels for providing the lid support panels of the carton, the lid support panels of the blank being foldable to underlie the first and second triangular lid panels in the erected carton. Preferably the blank is a single piece blank.

The present invention also extends to a method of erecting the blank in accordance with this further aspect of the invention to provide the carton. The method may comprise partially erecting the blank to provide a partially erected carton having side panels, folding the lid support panels toward the interior of the partially erected carton, folding the first triangular lid panel about the foldline connecting the lid panel to the first side panel, folding the second triangular lid panel about the foldline connecting the lid panel to the first triangular lid panel, and securing each of the first and second triangular lid panels to one or more lid support panel underlying the respective triangular lid panel to provide a closed first end to the carton. The partially erected carton having side panels will have closed sides defined by the side panels.

The method is preferably a fully automated method. The method may comprise folding a lid support panel toward the interior of the partially erected carton and applying adhesive thereto in a single step, and securing the first triangular lid panel thereto, and/or folding a lid support panel toward the interior of the partially erected carton and applying adhesive thereto in a single step, and securing the second triangular lid panel thereto. Preferably each lid support panel is folded in turn. Preferably adhesive is applied to at least some, and optionally each lid support panel, as the lid support panel is folded. It is advantageous to fold a lid support panel and apply adhesive thereto in a single step using a machine. However, it will be appreciated that the sequence of folding panels, the sequence of applying adhesive, and/or the location(s) of adhesive applied may vary depending upon the machinery e.g. packing line used. For example, it is envisaged that adhesive may additionally or alternatively be applied to the first or second triangular lid panel. This could be carried out with or without application of adhesive to the lid support panel(s). For example, adhesive could be applied only to the triangular lid panels as part of a final closure step. However, application of adhesive to the lid support panel(s), (and in embodiments to the lid support panel(s) and not the triangular lid panels), may be advantageous in terms of ease of construction of the carton using a machine, as adhesive may be more readily applied to the relevant surface of the lid support panel as part of a single step in which the panel is also folded.

The blank in accordance with these further aspects and embodiments, and the method of erecting the blank, may include any or all of the features described in the earlier aspects and embodiments relating to a blank, and may include features for providing any of the features described in relation to the carton in the earlier aspects of the invention. ln accordance with any of the further aspects or embodiments of the invention relating to a blank, the side panels of the blank are arranged in a row. The blank preferably comprises first, second, third and fourth side panels for providing first, second, third and fourth side panels of the carton. While any suitable arrangement may be used which enables the carton to be partially erected into a three-dimensional form, the first and second side panels, second and third side panels, and first and fourth panels are preferably connected to one another respectively by foldlines. The foldlines are parallel. The first and second side panels provide intermediate panels connected along foldlines at each side edge of the side panel to an adjacent one of the panels. The first and fourth side panels provide end panels of the blank. A glue flap is preferably connected to a side edge of the third side panel along a foldline for connection to the fourth side panel in erecting the carton. Preferably the first and second side panels are trapezoidal in shape. The side panels are connected along the shorter parallel edges of the trapezoids. Preferably the third and fourth side panels are parallelograms.

The step of partially erecting the blank to provide a partially erected carton may, in embodiments, comprise folding the blank along the foldlines connecting the first and second, second and third, and first and fourth side panels respectively, and securing the glue flap attached to the third side panel to the fourth side panel to provide a three dimensional semi-erected carton having side panels (i.e. having closed sides defined by the side panels).

Whatever the construction of the blank, preferably a lid support panel is connected to the end edge of each one of the side panels of the carton other than the first side panel to which the first triangular panel is attached, each lid support panel being connected to its respective side panel along a respective foldline for use in closing the first end. In preferred embodiments in which the blank comprises first, second, third and fourth side panels, the blank may include a first lid support panel connected to the end edge of the second side panel along a foldline, a second lid support panel connected to the end edge of the third side panel along a foldline, and a third lid support panel connected to an end edge of the fourth side panel along a foldline at the ends of the side panels which will be located at the first end of the carton.

In these embodiments in which the blank comprises first, second and third lid support panels, the method of erecting the blank may comprise partially erecting the blank to provide a partially erected carton having side panels; folding the third lid support panel toward the interior of the partially erected carton, and optionally applying adhesive to the outer surface of the third lid support panel; then folding the second lid support panel toward the interior of the carton so as to overlie at least a portion of the third lid support panel, and applying adhesive to the outer surface of the second lid support panel;

and, before or after said folding the third lid support panel and folding the second lid support panel to overlie at least a portion of the second lid support panel, folding the first lid support panel toward the interior of the partially erected carton, and applying adhesive to the outer surface of the first lid support panel;

and then folding the first triangular lid panel about the foldline connecting it to the first side panel, and the second triangular lid panel about the foldline connecting it to the first triangular lid panel, and adhesively securing the first triangular lid panel to the first lid support panel and the second triangular lid panel to the second lid support panel to provide a closed first end to the carton. The second triangular lid panel may also be adhesively secured to the third lid support panel. Folding each of the lid support panels individually in this manner has been found to be

particularly suited to machine implementation. It will be seen that in some exemplary embodiments, the method involves folding the lid support panels in the following order; first lid support panel, third lid support panel, second lid support panel, while in other exemplary embodiments the method may involve folding the lid support panels in the order; third lid support panel, second lid support panel, first lid support panel. Preferably the folding of a lid support panel and the application of adhesive thereto is carried out in a single step i.e. by a machine. However, as described above, the sequence of folding the lid support panels, and the location or timing of application of adhesive may vary depending upon the machinery used.

As described above, in any of the embodiments of the invention, preferably, when folded, the or each lid support panel underlying the second triangular lid panel has an edge which is aligned with a line extending across the interior of the carton at the first end i.e. a diagonal line. Preferably a plurality of lid support panels are provided underlying the second triangular lid panel having edges aligned with one another along the (same) line. Preferably the line does not extend beyond, and most preferably corresponds to the position of the foldline connecting the second triangular lid panel to the first triangular lid panel (in the assembled carton).

Preferably a plurality of lid support panels are provided underlying the second triangular lid panel (i.e. the second and third lid support panels) having edges aligned with one another along a line corresponding to the position of the foldline connecting the second triangular lid panel to the first triangular lid panel (in the assembled carton). The method may therefore involve folding the lid support panel(s) so that they are aligned in any of the above manners.

Regardless of the configuration of side panels and other panels, the blank preferably comprises a plurality of panels for providing a closed second end of the erected carton. Where the blank comprises first, second, third and fourth side panels, preferably one panel for use in providing the closed second end of the carton is connected to each one of the first, second, third and fourth panels along respective foldlines. In some embodiments the carton may not include a sloping face at the second end thereof. The panels may then be for providing a flat second end to the erected carton. In other embodiments the carton also has a sloping face at the second end of the carton, wherein the sloping face is defined by a first triangular lid panel at the second end of the carton, wherein a first edge of the first triangular lid panel is connected along a foldline to the end of a first one of the side panels at the end of the side panel at the second end of the carton, the carton further comprising a second triangular lid panel at the second end of the carton providing an end face for the carton at the second end thereof, wherein a first edge of the second triangular lid panel is connected to a second edge of the first triangular lid panel along a foldline, the carton further comprising a plurality of lid support panels underlying the first and second triangular lid panels at the second end of the carton.

The blank may then comprise a first triangular lid panel for providing the first triangular lid panel which provides the sloping face of the carton at the second end thereof, the first triangular lid panel of the blank being connected to the end of a first one of the side panels of the blank along a foldline at the end of the blank which will provide the second end of the carton, the blank further comprising a second triangular lid panel connected to the first triangular lid panel along a foldline for providing the second triangular lid panel providing the end face for the carton at the second end thereof, the blank further comprising a plurality of lid support panels for providing the lid support panels of the carton at the second end thereof, the lid support panels of the blank being foldable to underlie the first and second triangular lid panels at the second end of the carton in the erected carton.

In any of the embodiments of the invention, whether or not the second end of the carton includes a sloping face, the method of erecting the blank may comprise using the plurality of panels for providing a closed second end to the carton to close the second end of the carton. This may be carried out as part of the step of providing the partially erected carton. Thus, such a method may comprise partially erecting the blank to provide a partially erected carton having a closed second end and closed sides. It will be appreciated that the step of closing the second end may be carried out before, simultaneously with, or after the step of closing the first end of the carton. In embodiments in which the carton does not include a sloping face at the second end, this step is preferably carried out before the step of closing the first end.

Where the second end comprises a sloping face, the method of erecting the blank may comprise folding the lid support panels toward the interior of the partially erected carton at the second end thereof, folding the first triangular lid panel about the foldline connecting the lid panel to the first side panel, folding the second triangular lid panel about the foldline connecting the second triangular lid panel to the first triangular lid panel, and securing each of the first and second triangular lid panels to one or more lid support panel underlying the respective triangular lid panel to provide a closed second end to the carton.

Whatever the configuration of the second end, the steps involved in providing the side panels (i.e. closed sides defined by the side panels) and the closed second end of the carton during erection thereof may be performed sequentially in any order, or simultaneously. Preferably in embodiments of the blank having first, second, third and fourth side panels with a glue flap connected to the third side panel, the glue flap is secured to the fourth side panel to provide the semi-erected carton having closed sides, and the panels then used to close the second end of the erected carton.

As mentioned above, any suitable steps may be used in providing the partially erected carton, and it is not necessary that the blank is of the configuration of the examples set out above, or that it is erected as described in the above exemplary arrangements. However, the partially erected carton is obtained, the present invention is concerned with the way in which the first end (and in some embodiments, the second end) thereof is closed, so as to provide a sloping face at the respective end.

Any reference to the first and second ends of the carton may be replaced by a reference to the top and bottom ends thereof respectively. It will be appreciated that references to top, bottom, upper etc. or first and second end, herein are not intended to confer any limitation in the intended orientation of the carton in use, or its function, but serve to distinguish the ends of the carton from one another. For example, where the first end is referred to as a top end of the carton, the sloping face is an upper sloping face, a first edge of the first triangular lid panel being connected along a foldline to the top of a first one of the side panels, and the second triangular panel provides a top face of the carton.

In those embodiments including first, second and third lid support panels, the application of adhesive to the second lid support panel is optional, but may be used to provide additional closure strength to the applicable end of the carton.

A fold line as referred to herein refers to any line about which components have been folded. The fold line may comprise a line of weakness, creaseline and/or perforations. If not explicitly stated, and unless inconsistent therewith, any connection described herein may be about a foldline.

The present invention in accordance with any of its further aspects or embodiments may include any of the features described in reference to other aspects or embodiments of the invention to the extent it is not mutually inconsistent therewith.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

Some preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described by way of example only with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

Figure 1 is a perspective view from above and one side showing a carton in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention;

Figure 2 is a view of the carton shown in Figure 1 from the front;

Figure 3 is a perspective view of the carton shown in Figure 1 from the same side as Figure 1 ;

Figure 4 shows a blank for forming the carton of Figure 1 from the surface that will form the exterior of the carton;

Figure 5 shows a first stage in an embodiment of a process of closing the top end of the semi erected blank of Figure 4 to produce the carton of Figure 1 ;

Figure 6 shows a second stage in the process of closing the top end of the semi erected blank of Figure 4 to produce the carton of Figure 1 ;

Figure 7 shows a third stage in the process of closing the top end of the semi erected blank of Figure 4 to produce the carton of Figure 1 ; Figure 8 shows a fourth stage in the process of closing the top end of the semi erected blank of Figure 4 to produce the carton of Figure 1 ;

Figure 9 illustrates a carton from above in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention;

and Figure 10 illustrates a blank for use in providing the carton of Figure 9.

A carton in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention will be described by reference to Figures 1-4. Figures 1-3 show the erected carton, and Figure 4 shows the blank 48 from which the carton is erected. The carton is formed from a single piece blank. The carton includes first, second, third and fourth side panels 7, 9, 11 and 13 (the fourth side panel not shown in Figures 1-3). A first edge of a first triangular lid panel 3 is connected to the first side panel 7 along a first foldline 15. A second edge of the first triangular lid panel 3 is connected to a first edge of a second triangular lid panel 5 along a second foldline 17. The first and second triangular lid panels are adhesively secured to underlying ones of a plurality of lid support panels to close the top of the carton. The second triangular lid panel is in the form of a flap. The lid support panels may be seen in Figure 4, and are described in more detail below. The first triangular lid panel 3 provides a sloping upper face of the carton, while the second triangular lid panel 5 provides a flat top face to the carton.

The first and second side panels 7, 9 are trapezoidal in shape, and are connected to one another along the shorter parallel edges of the trapezoids along a third foldline 19. The third and fourth side panels 11 , 13 are rectangular in shape. The second side panel 9 is connected to the third side panel 11 along a fourth foldline 21. Although not shown in Figures 1-3, the first side panel 7 is connected to the fourth side panel 13 along a fifth foldline 23. The fourth side panel 13 is connected to the third side panel 1 1 by adhesively securing a glue flap 27 attached to the third side panel 1 1 to the interior of the fourth side panel 13. The glue flap 27 is connected to the third side panel 1 1 along a sixth foldline 28.

A first lid support panel 29 is attached to the top edge of the second side panel 9 along a seventh foldline 31. A second lid support panel 33 is connected to the top of the third side panel 11 along an eighth foldline 35. A third lid support panel 37 is connected to the top of the fourth side panel 13 along a ninth foldline 39. The lid support panels are in the form of flaps. The shape and size of the lid support panels may vary from the particular example illustrated. Each of the first, second, third and fourth side panels has a panel 41 , 43, 45, 47 respectively connected to the bottom edge thereof along a foldline 49, 51 , 55, 53 which are used to provide a closed bottom end to the carton. The panel 41 provides the flat bottom panel of the carton, with the panels 43, 45, 47 underlying the panel as known in the art.

Erection of the blank 48 shown in Figure 4 to provide the carton of Figures 1-3 will now be described by reference to Figures 5-8. Figures 5-8 illustrate an exemplary sequence of steps used in closing the top end of the semi erected carton. The process of erecting the carton from the blank is carried out entirely by a machine, i.e. is a fully automated process, and does not require any steps to be manually performed.

The construction of the blank to provide a semi-erected carton will not be described in detail. Briefly, the blank is partially erected to provide the semi erected carton of Figure 5. The blank is folded along the third, fourth, and fifth foldlines 19, 21 , 23 to adopt a three dimensional configuration, and the exterior of the glue flap 27 adhesively secured to the interior of the fourth side panel 13 to retain the semi erected carton in a 3 dimensional configuration having closed sides. The panels 41 , 43, 45, 47 are used to provide a closed bottom end to the semi-erected carton.

A particular sequence of steps which may be used to provide a closed top end to the carton will now be described. This particular sequence is merely exemplary, and it will be appreciated that other sequences may be used depending upon factors such as the type of machinery used to assemble the carton. In the first step, as shown in Figure 5, the first lid support panel 29 is folded along the seventh foldline 31 toward the interior of the semi erected carton in the direction of the arrow shown in Figure 5, and adhesive is applied to the upper surface thereof. The application of adhesive and folding of the lid support panel may be

accomplished in a single step by a machine.

In the second step, as shown in Figure 6, the third lid support panel 37 is folded inwardly in the direction of the arrow in Figure 6 toward the interior of the partially erected carton along the ninth foldline 39. Adhesive may optionally be applied to the upper surface of the third lid support panel 37 if it is desired to provide the panel with additional closure strength. The folding of the third lid support panel 37 and the application of adhesive thereto may be accomplished in a single step by a machine. ln the third step, as shown in Figure 7, the second lid support panel 33 is folded in the direction of the arrow in Figure 7 along the eighth foldline 35 toward the interior of the partially erected carton, so as to overlie a portion of the third lid support panel 37. Adhesive is applied to the upper surface of the second lid support panel 33. The application of adhesive and folding of the lid support panel may be accomplished in a single step by a machine.

As may be seen in Figure 7, once folded, edges of the second and third lid support panels 33, 37 are aligned along a line A-A extending across the diagonal of the open end of the carton. This line corresponds to the position of the foldline 17 connecting the second triangular lid panel 5 to the first triangular lid panel 3 when the first and second triangular lid panels are folded over to close the top of the carton in the fourth and final step. This prevents the lid support panels from interfering with the ability to fold the second triangular lid panel into position.

In the fourth and final step, as shown in Figure 8, the first and second triangular lid panels 3, 5 are folded in the direction of the arrow about the first and second foldlines 15, 17 as they are brought up to close the top of the carton.

Folding may occur first about the first foldline 15 and then about the second foldline 17. The second triangular lid panel is adhesively secured to the upper surface of the second lid support panel 33, and optionally to an exposed portion of the third lid support panel 37. The first triangular lid panel 3 is adhesively secured to the upper surface of the first lid support panel 29.

The first and second triangular lid panels may be handled as one unit, as they are folded over to close the top of the carton, facilitating performance of this step by a machine.

In an alternative exemplary sequence, rather than folding the first lid support panel 29 as an initial step before folding the third and second lid support panels 37, 33, the folding sequence may commence with the folding of the third lid support panel 37, with the second lid support panel 33 being folded second, and the first lid support panel 29 being folded third, before the first and second triangular lid panels are brought up to close the top of the carton. The folding of each lid support panel, and the application of adhesive thereto may be in accordance with the earlier embodiment described.

It will be appreciated that while the end of the carton with the sloping face has been described as the top end thereof, this does not confer any limitation in terms of function or use, and the end may alternatively be referred to as a first end. It will be appreciated that as well as the possible variation in the sequence of folding of panels, the application of adhesive to the lid support panels and triangular lid panels may differ from that described in the above examples, in terms of the location and/or the timing of adhesive application e.g. depending upon the machinery, e.g. packing line used. It is not necessary that adhesive be applied to each of the lid support panels provided that the triangular lid panels may ultimately be secured in position. Alternatively or additionally adhesive may be applied to the first or second triangular lid panels. For example it is envisaged that adhesive could be applied only to the first and second triangular lid panels as part of the final closure step (and not to the underlying lid support panels), or might only be applied to the second triangular lid panel. Application of adhesive to the outer surface of a lid support panel is advantageous as this may be achieved at the same time as folding the lid support panel in an automated process.

The alignment of the edges of the lid support panels underlying the second triangular lid panel across a diagonal of the open end of the carton, and preferably so as to be aligned with the foldline connecting the second triangular lid panel to the first triangular lid panel is an advantageous feature in its own right, and is not limited to the particular embodiment, or folding sequence illustrated. Similar arrangements may be obtained using different shaped and sized lid support panels to those illustrated.

Referring to Figure 9, a carton 50 in accordance with a second embodiment of the invention is shown. This carton is similar to that of the first embodiment, but includes a sloping face 56, 58 at both a first 52 and second 54 end thereof. The arrangement used to provide the sloping face at each end of the carton 50 is identical to that used to provide the sloping face at the top end of the carton of the earlier embodiment. Each sloping face 56, 58 is provided by a respective first triangular lid panel at the applicable end of the carton 50. The first triangular lid panel at each end extends toward the opposite end of the carton from an end face of the carton provided by a respective second triangular lid panel connected along a foldline to the applicable first triangular lid panel (not visible in Figure 9).

Figure 10 illustrates a blank 60 which may be used to provide the carton 50. The blank includes identical sets of panels and flaps at each end 62, 64 for providing the closed first and second ends 52, 54 of the carton respectively. It will be appreciated that in this embodiment, the first and second ends of the carton are interchangeable, and the carton is symmetrical about a transverse (and longitudinal axis). The components corresponding to those of the blank 48 of the earlier embodiment are given corresponding reference numerals. The components for providing the closed second end of the carton are given the same reference numerals as those associated with the corresponding structure for providing the first closed end of the carton, but annotated by a symbol. Thus, the first triangular lid panel at the second end is 3', the second triangular lid panel at the second end 5', and the second, third and fourth lid support panels at the second end are 29', 33' and 37' respectively, and so on. The corresponding foldlines are labelled in a corresponding manner.

The method of using the set of flaps and panels 64 at the second end to provide the second closed end incorporating a sloping face may be in accordance with any of the embodiments described in relation to using the set of panels and flaps at the top end of the embodiment of the earlier blank 48 to provide a closed top end to the earlier carton. Thus, the steps involved in using the sets of flaps and panels 62, 64 of the blank 60 for providing the closed first and second ends of the carton may be identical, and may be in accordance with the earlier embodiment. The closing of the first end and second end may occur in any order, or

simultaneously.

While in the embodiment illustrated the first triangular lid panel, and hence the lid support panels, for providing the second closed end including a sloping face, are associated with the same side panels to which the corresponding components for providing the first closed end including a sloping face are associated, this need not be the case.