REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION This is a continuation of U.S. Application Serial

No. 08/401,637, currently pending.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Field of the Invention The present invention relates generally to paperboard products, and more particularly to paperboard containers which may be converted into other usable consumer products, without the need for additional materials or tools.

Description of the Prior Art

Conventional consumer products, although some are recyclable, typically cannot be directly reused for other purposes. As a result, natural resources such as trees continue to be depleted while landfills near capacity. At the same time, the use of such products continues to grow as more and more countries become industrialized. As a result, waste management, recycling, reuse and overall source reduction have become critical issues in the 1990's.

One area of direct concern are paperboard products such as containers and stationary products. These products are widely used by the public. Once the outer packaging of these products is used, the packaging is traditionally discarded by the public, thus contributing to the reduction of natural resources and the growing need for more landfills.

What is needed therefore is an outer packaging such as a container which may be converted into other useful products, thus minimizing the use of natural resources and providing the consumer with more value at the same cost.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The preceding and other shortcomings of prior art products are addressed and overcome by the present invention that provides an outer packaging such as a container which may be converted into other useful products. In particular, the present invention provides, in a first aspect, an assembly which when fully assembled functions as a container for holding items and when disassembled converts into one or more products without the need for adhesives, additional materials or tools. The assembly is imprinted on both sides with designs, texts or a combination thereof and is constructed from material which is perforated to facilitate its unfolding, separating and refolding into other usable products.

The foregoing and additional features and advantages of this invention will become apparent from the detailed description and accompanying drawing figures that follow. In the figures and the written description, numerals indicate the various features of the invention, like numerals referring to like features throughout for both the drawing figures and the written description.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a side perspective view of an assembled box container constructed in accordance with the present invention; FIG. 2 is a top plan view of an assembly that is scored and perforated to form the container shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a top plan view of one side of the assembly shown in FIG. 2 imprinted with designs and texts;

FIG. 4 is a top plan view of the other side of the assembly shown in FIG. 2 imprinted with designs and texts;

FIG. 5(a) is a side perspective view of the container shown in FIG. 1 as it is being disassembled; FIG. 5(b) is a top plan view of the assembly shown in FIG. 2 as it is being assembled into the container shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 (a) is an illustration of a seed starter kit which may be contained within the assembled container shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6(b) is an illustration of a book which may be formed when the container shown in FIG. 1 is disassembled; FIG. 6(c) is an illustration of a postcard which may be formed when the container shown in FIG. 1 is disassembled;

FIG. 7 is a top plan view showing another embodiment of an assembly that is scored and perforated to form the container shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a top plan view showing another embodiment of an assembly that is scored and perforated to form the container shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 9 is a top plan view showing another embodiment of an assembly that is scored to form the container shown in FIG. l;

FIG. 10 is a top plan view showing another embodiment of the assembly that is scored and reinforced to form the container shown in FIG. l;

FIG. 11 is a top plan view showing a game board formed from the assembly shown in FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a top plan view showing another embodiment of an assembly that is scored and perforated to form the container shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 13(a) is a top plan view showing another embodiment of an assembly that is scored and perforated to form the container shown in FIG. 1; FIG. 13(b) is a top plan view showing another embodiment of the assembly shown in FIG. 13(a); FIG. 14 is a top plan view showing another embodiment of an assembly that is scored and perforated to form the container shown in FIG. 1; FIG. 15 is an illustration of a scene formed from the assembly shown in FIG. 14;

FIG. 16 is a side perspective view of a fully assembled pyramidal shaped container constructed in accordance with the present invention; and FIG. 17 is a top plan view showing an assembly that is scored and perforated to form the container shown in FIG. 16.

FIGS. 18(a) -19 are top plan views of assemblies that are scored and perforated in accordance with other embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 20 is a top plan view of a subassembly formed from the assembly shown in FIG. 19;

FIG. 21 is a side perspective view of a mobile formed from the subassembly shown in FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 is a top plan view of another subassembly formed from the assembly shown in FIG. 19;

FIG. 23(a) is a top plan view of another subassembly formed from the assembly shown in FIG. 19; FIG. 23(b) is a top plan view of the subassembly shown in FIG. 23(a) including an apparatus for securing a compact disc to the subassembly shown in FIG. 23(b); FIGS. 24-27 are top plan views of assemblies that are scored and perforated in accordance with other embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 28 is a top plan view of the assembly shown in FIG. 27 imprinted with designs and texts;

FIG. 29(a) is an illustration of a calendar which may be formed from the assembly shown in FIG. 28; FIG. 29(b) is another illustration of a calender which may be formed from the assembly shown in FIG. 29(b) ;

FIGS. 30-31 are top plan views of an assemblies that are scored and perforated in accordance with other embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 32 is a top plan view of the assembly shown in FIG. 31 imprinted with designs and texts;

FIGS. 33(a)-(b) are top plan views of assemblies that are scored and perforated in accordance with other embodiments of the invention;

FIG. 33(c) is a top plan view of the assembly shown in FIG. 33(b) imprinted with designs and texts;

FIG. 34 is a top plan view of another subassembly formed from the assembly shown in FIG. 33(a); FIG. 35 is an illustration of a dice-shaped produce formed from the assemblies in accordance with the present invention; and

FIGS. 36(a)-40 are top plan views of assemblies that are scored and perforated in accordance with other embodiments of the invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Referring to FIG. 1, a container 100 constructed in accordance with the present invention may be disassembled and converted into one or more usable products without the need for adhesives, additional materials or tools. In other words, the container 100 may be manipulated to become other meaningful and useful products. The container 100 is constructed from material, such as paperboard or cardboard, which is perforated and scored to facilitate its unfolding, separating, and refolding into various items. Alternatively, the container 100 may be constructed from plastic or other suitable material. The container 100 in accordance with the present invention becomes the primary product itself after manipulating the material by opening, folding or otherwise changing its shape.

The container assembly 10, as shown in FIG. 2, may be imprinted on both sides with designs, texts or a combination thereof, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4. The assembly 10, when fully assembled, functions as a container or consumer product package 100 as shown in FIG. l, and when disassembled converts into one or more usable products without the need for additional materials. Thus, for example, in one iteration, the container 100, which may be held together with or without adhesive, may be converted from a container 100 shown in FIG. 1 which holds a seed-growing kit 102 as shown in FIG. 6(a) into a multitude of other usable products, such as a book 104 and post cards 106, as shown in FIGS. 6(b) and 6(c).

In accordance with the present invention, containers of various shapes and sizes may be formed, including but not limited to box (as shown in FIG. 1) , pyramidal (as shown in FIG. 16) , cube, triangular, and

rectagonal shaped containers. In particular, the present invention is not limited to the illustrative box-shaped container 100, shown in FIG. 1, nor to any dimensions related thereto. Rather, the illustrative box-shaped container 100 shown in FIG. 1 and described in detail below simply illustrates one particular container configuration which may be constructed in accordance with the present invention. As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the assembly 10 shown in FIG. 2 is imprinted on both sides with various designs, texts or a combination thereof, such that when assembled as described below, the aesthetically pleasing package and container 100 shown in FIG. 1 is formed. The assembly 10 may be imprinted such that it allows a user, such as a child, to decorate, by coloring or other suitable means, parts of the design.

In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the assembled container 100 may be used to hold flower, herb, plant or seed-starter kits (as shown in FIG. 6(a)) including seeds, propagation soil, sprouting container and instructions. The assembled container 100 may also be used to hold other items, including but not limited to clothing such as T-shirts, utensils, spices, cosmetics, measuring spoons, sporting equipment such as baseballs, dolls and toy characters, toy cars, stationary products and health remedies. The assembled container 100 may also be used as wrapping paper and box in one, thus holding presents.

In accordance with an advantage of the present invention, the same container 100 may be dissembled to create other reusable products without the need for additional materials or tools. To construct such products, the assembly 10 is perforated and scored to facilitate its unfolding, separating, and refolding into items of value and imprinted on both sides with various

designs, texts or a combination thereof. By unfolding, separating, and refolding the assembly 10, various products may be formed, as shown in FIGS. 6(b) and 6(c). In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the assembly 10 shown in FIG. 2 is scored and imprinted with designs, texts or a combination thereof to form postcards 106 as shown in FIG. 6(c). In particular, part of the assembly 10 may be scored to form legal sized postcards. One side of the postcard cutout is imprinted with note and address portions and the other side is imprinted correspondingly with designs, texts or a combination thereof. For example, referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, when the top flap 40 is detached, a postcard is formed with one side of the postcard having a note and address section as shown in FIG. 3 and the reverse side of the postcard having a sunflower design as shown in FIG. 4. Other products which may be formed include, but are not limited to, note cards, recipe cards, instructional cards including educational cards such as study or flash cards, greeting cards, trading cards such as baseball cards, and cut out toys such as dolls, doll clothes, paperboard bridges, benches, chairs and playhouses.

In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the same assembly 10 is scored and imprinted with designs, texts or a combination thereof to form a book 104 as shown in FIG. 6(b). Alternatively, the assembly 10 may be scored and/or perforated, and imprinted to form other products, including but not limited to a background movie-like set 452, as shown in FIG. 15. The remaining assembly 10 may be perforated appropriately to form items such as a bookmark and/or instructions for converting the container into various other products.

Thus, in accordance with the present invention, the fully assembled container 100 shown in FIG. 1 may be

assembled and held together without adhesive to function as a container. In accordance with an advantage of the present invention, the same container 100 may be dissembled as shown in FIG. 5(a) to create other reusable products such as those shown in FIGS. 6(b) and 6(c), without the need for additional materials. In particular, the container 100, in its assembled form, may be used to hold products such as a seed-growing kit 102 shown in FIG. 6(a). The same assembled container 100 shown in FIG. 1 may be disassembled and converted as shown in FIG. 5(a) into one or more usable products, such as a book 104 and postcards 106, as shown in FIGS. 6(a) and 6(b) without the need for additional materials. In accordance with the present invention, the assembly 10 shown in FIG. 2 is scored, perforated and imprinted such that various products directed towards an overall theme may be created. For example, to create a container directed to sunflowers, the assembly 10 is cut and perforated to form legal sized postcards. The part of the assembly 10 forming the postcards is imprinted on one side with pictures of sunflowers and on the other side with note and address portions, thus forming postcards directed to sunflowers. Additionally, the same assembly 10 is scored to form a book. The part of the assembly 10 forming the book is imprinted with designs of sunflowers and text directed to the history of sunflowers, recipes utilizing sunflower seeds, and poems directed to sunflowers. Alternatively, the panels comprising the book may be used instead to form more card products. Furthermore, the same assembly 10 may be perforated to form a bookmark. The part of the assembly 10 forming the bookmark may be imprinted with sunflower designs and/or texts directed to sunflowers. Still further, the same assembly 10 may be perforated to form an instructional card. The part of the assembly 10

forming the instructional card may be imprinted with information relating to the ongoing care and use of the plant propagated from the seeds in the seed starter kit. Instructions regarding how to convert the assembled container 100 into the sunflower postcards and books can also be imprinted on part of the assembly 10. Once assembled, container 100 may be used to hold a seed- starter kit as shown in FIG. 6(a) including seeds, propagation soil, sprouting container and instructions for planting sunflower seeds.

Thus, once assembled, an aesthetically pleasing container 100 directed toward sunflowers may be used to hold products, such as a sunflower seed growing kit. This same container 100 may be disassembled and converted from a container into a multitude of products, such as sunflower postcards, a book directed to the history of sunflowers, a bookmark illustrated with sunflowers and instructional material on how to plant the sunflower seeds. In another example, the present invention may be used to create a container directed towards cooking. The assembled container holds one or more items used for cooking, such as a set of measuring utensils. The assembly is perforated and/or scored to facilitate its unfolding and separating such that parts become a book on the basics of cooking, and recipe cards for special dishes.

In still another example, the present invention may be used to create a container directed towards cosmetics. The assembled container is used to hold one or more cosmetic items. The assembly is perforated and scored to facilitate its unfolding and separating such that parts become a book on the basics on applying cosmetics and Make-up Recipe™ cards for special effects.

In another example, the present invention may also be used to create a container which serves as a four-in- one product providing wrapping paper and gift box. The assembled container is used to hold gifts. The assembly is perforated and scored to facilitate its unfolding and separating such that parts become a book and postcards.

In still another example of the invention, the present invention may be used to create a container directed to sports. The assembled container is used to hold one or more sports-related items, such as a baseball, T-shirt with a sports team emblem or baseball cap. The assembly is perforated and scored to facilitate its unfolding and separating such that parts become trading cards, stickers and/or a book relating to a particular ball club or sport in general. For example, a book could be imprinted with information about a baseball team.

In yet another example, the present invention may be used to create an informative container directed to childhood and adult diseases and ailments, including the common cold, which may be offered at pharmacies, bookstores and the like. The assembled container is used to hold one or more items, such as traditional, homeopathic or over the counter remedies. The assembly is perforated and scored to facilitate its unfolding and separating such that parts become a book directed to questions commonly asked about respective diseases and ailments. The flaps of the assembly form Healing Recipe™ cards. In still another example, the present invention may be used to create a container directed to testers for common ailments such as dry skin. The assembled container is used to hold one or more tester items, such as tester item samples for dry skin from different manufacturers. The assembly is perforated and scored to

facilitate its unfolding and separating such that parts become a book directed to traditional approaches for healing and provides information regarding specific ailments. The flaps of the assembly are used as charts for record keeping to determine empirically which tester samples are effective.

An example of how the present invention may be implemented is shown in FIGS. 1-6(c) and described in detail below. As noted above, the present invention is not limited to the illustrative container 100 example shown in FIG. 1 nor to any dimensions related thereto. In particular, the illustrative example shown in FIGS. 1-6(c) and described in detail below illustrates the formation of a box shaped container. Referring to FIG. 2, an assembly 10 which may be converted to one or more usable products, in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the invention, is formed from a single planar rectangular sheet of box material, such as paperboard or cardboard. Alternatively, the assembly 10 may be constructed from plastic or some other suitable material. The assembly may be cut, scored or perforated appropriately to form various shapes and products. For example, the use of a single die having sharp blade edges to make cuts through the sheet material may be used, as illustrated by the solid lines in FIG. 2. Additionally, the die may have blunted edges that are pressed into the sheet to form score or fold lines to facilitate folding into specific shapes, as illustrated by the elongated dashed lines in FIG. 2 , and razor edges to make perforations through the sheet material, as illustrated by the short dashed lines in the drawings. With a properly sized rectangular sheet stock, the amount of waste material cut from the edges is kept to a minimum. The planar rectangular sheet of box material, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, may be

imprinted on both sides with designs, texts or a combination thereof, such that the assembly 10, when fully assembled, functions as a container 100 as shown in FIG. 1, and when disassembled converts into other usable products without the need for adhesives or additional materials or tools.

For purposes of clarity, however, the assembly 10 shown in FIG. 2 is shown without any designs or texts imprinted onto the material. Furthermore, the present invention is not intended to be restricted to the illustrative dimensions disclosed. For example, the box-shaped container shown in FIG. 1 could be constructed without top flap 30, panel 28 and bottom panel 32. Referring to FIG. 2, the assembly 10 includes panels 12, 14, 16, 18 and 28 that are hinged to be folded inwardly along their respective score or fold lines 20, 22, 24 and 26 such that the panels 12, 14, 16 and 18 form the sides of the assembled container 100 shown in FIG. 1. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the panels 12, 14, 16 and 18 are substantially square shaped and the panel 28 is substantially rectangularly shaped. Panel 28 is folded such that it extends substantially diagonal within the assembled container 100 shown in FIG. 1 and provides additional strength for the assembled container.

As shown in FIG. 2, panel 12 is hinged to panel 14 by score line 20, panel 14 is hinged to panel 16 by score line 22, panel 16 is hinged to panel 18 by score line 24 and panel 18 is hinged to panel 28 by score line 16. The score lines 20, 22, 24 and 26 may be dimensioned to create a double fold surface as shown in FIG. 2 to facilitate design of the products formed by assembly 10. The panels 12, 14, 16 and 18 are surrounded on the top and bottom by top flaps 38, 40, 42

and 44, and bottom flaps 54, 56, 58 and 60. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the top flaps 38, 40, 42 and 44, and the bottom flaps 54, 56, 58 and 60 are substantially rectangularly shaped. The top flaps 38, 40, 42 and 44 are hinged to be folded inwardly along their respective perforated lines 46, 48, 50 and 52 to extend at substantially right angles to panels 12, 14, 16 and 18, respectively, when the container is assembled. The bottom flaps 54, 56, 58 and 60 are hinged to be folded inwardly along their respective perforated lines 62, 64, 66 and 68 to extend at substantially right angles to the panels 12, 14, 16 and 18, respectively, when the container is assembled.

As shown in FIG. 2, panel 28 is hinged along score line 26, which may be dimensioned to form a double fold surface. In an alternate embodiment, an elongated section 90 is formed within panel 28 by perforated line 92. The panel 28 is surrounded on the top and bottom by top and bottom flaps 30 and 32, which are hinged to be folded inwardly along their respective perforated lines 34 and 36 to overlie panel 28, when the container is assembled. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the top and bottom flaps 30 and 32 are substantially rectangularly shaped. With the top and bottom flaps 30 and 32 folded in this position, the panel 28 is folded inwardly to approximately abut score line 22. The panel 28 and the top and bottom flaps 30 and 32, when folded into position, are displaced within the assembled container 100. An upper end flap 70 extends out from the top flap 38 and is hinged along perforated line 72. The upper end flap 70 and the top flap 38 together form the top lid 94 for the assembled container 100 shown in FIG. 1. An elongated tab 74, preferably wedge-shaped, at the upper end of end flap 70 is hinged along score line 76

to bend inwardly at a substantially right angle for insertion into narrow slot 78 cut into panel 16 and top flap 42, alongside perforated line 58. Similarly, a lower end flap 80 extends from the bottom flap 54 and is hinged along perforated line 82. The lower end flap 80 and the bottom flap 54 together form the bottom lid 96 for the assembled container 100 shown in FIG. 1. An elongated tab 84, preferably wedge-shaped, at the lower end of end flap 80 is hinged along score line 86 to bend inwardly at a right angle for insertion into narrow slot 88 cut into panel 16 and bottom flap 58, alongside perforated line 66. The tabs and 74 and 84, although preferably wedge-shaped, may be configured in other shapes suitable for securing the container 100 together. In another embodiment of the invention, locking tabs 75 disposed on each of the tabs 74 and 84 further secure the tab 74 and 84 to slots 78 and 88, respectively.

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, in the preferred embodiment of the invention, the assembly 10 shown in FIG. 2 is imprinted on both sides with various designs, texts or a combination thereof, such that when assembled as described below, the aesthetically pleasing container 100 shown in FIG. 1 is formed. Referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the top flaps 30, 38, 40, 42 and 44 and the bottom flaps 32, 54, 56, 58 and 60, which are each singularly detachable along their respective perforated lines, are imprinted on both sides with designs, texts or a combination thereof to form various card products, such as note cards, postcards, recipe cards, instructional cards including educational cards, greeting cards, trading cards, and the like. For example, as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the top flaps 30, 38, 40, 42 and 44 and the bottom flaps 32, 54, 56, 58 and 60 are imprinted with designs, texts and a combination thereof to form postcards 106 as shown in FIG. 6(c). In particular, the

top and bottom flaps shown in FIG. 3 are imprinted with the note and address sections of a postcard. As shown in FIG. 4, the reverse side of the top and bottom flaps shown in FIG. 3 are imprinted with the design section of the postcard. Thus, for example, when the top flap 40 is detached, a postcard is formed with one side of the postcard having a note and address section as shown in FIG. 3 and the reverse side of the postcard having a sunflower design as shown in FIG. 4. The remaining panels 12, 14, 16, 18 and 28, which are foldable along their respective score lines, are imprinted on both sides with the appropriate designs, texts or a combination thereof to form a book 104 as shown in FIG. 6(b). FIG. 5(a) shows the assembled container 100 as it is being disassembled. The book is formed by first detaching the top flaps 30, 38, 40, 42 and 44 and the bottom flaps 32, 54, 56, 58 and 60, and then folding the remaining panels 12, 14, 16, 18 and 28 along score lines 20, 22, 24 and 26 into a book. Referring to FIG. 4, the spine of the book may be formed by double score line 26 and the section 90 may be detached and used as a bookmark. Other remaining portions of the assembly 10 may be converted to use as other products. Referring to FIGS. 2 and 5(b), to assemble the assembly 10 into the container 100 shown in FIG. l, the top and bottom flaps 30 and 32 are folded inwardly, along perforated lines 34 and 36, to overlie panel 28 thus forming panel 29. The panel 29 is then folded inwardly to approximately abut panels 14 and 16, along score line 22.

The panels 12, 14, 16 and 18 are then folded inwardly, along score lines 20, 22 and 24 such that adjacent panels 12, 14, 16 and 18 are positioned at substantially right angles to the plane of the other.

With the panels 12, 14, 16, 18 and 28 folded into position, the top flaps 40, 42 and 44 are folded inwardly, along perforated lines 48, 50 and 52, respectively, such that the top flaps 40, 42 and 44 are positioned at substantially right angles to the side panels 14, 16 and 18, respectively, and overlie each other. The top flap 38 is then folded along perforated line 46 at a right angle to form, along with end flap 70, the top lid 94 for the assembled container 100 shown in FIG. 1, and to place the end tab 74 adjacent the narrow upper slot 78 cut in panel 16 and flap 42, alongside the perforated line 50.

Similarly, the bottom flaps 56, 58 and 60 are folded inwardly, along perforated lines 64, 66 and 68, respectively, such that flaps 56, 58 and 60 are positioned at right angles to side panels 14, 16 and 18, respectively, and overlie each other. The bottom flap 54 is then folded along perforated line 62 at a right angle to form, along with end flap 80, the bottom lid 96 for the assembled container 100 shown in FIG. 1, and to place the end tab 84 adjacent the narrow lower slot 88 cut in panel 16 and flap 58, alongside the perforated line 66.

In accordance with an advantage of the present invention, the container 100 may be dissembled to create one or more items without the need for adhesives, additional materials or tools. For illustration, to create a container directed to sunflowers, the top flaps 30, 38, 40, 42, and 44 and the bottom flaps 32, 54, 56, 58 and 60 as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 are imprinted on both sides with the appropriate designs, texts or combination thereof to create cards products such as sunflower postcards. Additionally, the panels 12, 14, 16, 18 and 28 as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 are imprinted on both sides with the appropriate designs, texts or a

combination thereof to form a book directed to sunflowers. Finally, the section 90 is imprinted appropriately to form a bookmark. The assembled container 100 shown in FIG. 1 may be used to hold a seed-starter kit 102 as shown in FIG. 6(a) including seeds, propagation soil, sprouting container and instructions for planting. Thus, once assembled as described above, an aesthetically pleasing container which may be used to hold products, such as a sunflower seed growing kit, is formed without the use of adhesives.

Referring to FIG. 7, another embodiment of an assembly 120 which may be converted to one or more usable products is similarly formed from a single planar rectangular sheet of box material, such as paperboard or cardboard. The assembly 120 is similar in construction to the assembly 10 shown in FIG. 2 except that the top flaps 122, 124, 126, 128 and 130, and the bottom flaps 132, 134, 136, 138 and 140 are hinged to be folded inwardly along their respective score lines 142, 144, 146, 148, and 158, and 160, 162, 164, 166 and 168, rather than perforated lines as shown in FIG. 2, to extend at substantially right angles to panels 170, 172, 174, 176 and 178, respectively. As with the assembly 10 shown in FIG. 2, the planar rectangular sheet of box material forming the assembly 120 shown in FIG. 7 may be imprinted on both sides with designs, texts or a combination thereof, such that the assembly 120, when fully assembled, functions as a container 100 as shown in FIG. 1, and when disassembled converts into one or more usable products without the need for adhesives, additional materials or tools. For example, since the top flaps 122, 124, 126, 128 and 130, and the bottom flaps 132, 134, 136, 138 and 140 are hinged to their respective center panels 170, 172, 174,

176 and 178, an expanded book may be formed. The assembly 120 may be imprinted with designs, texts or a combination thereof to form an expanded book directed to an easy reference map for highways. Thus, a user may open to a page and then by flipping the top and/or bottom flaps, a larger area of focus is offered without having to unfold a conventional cumbersome road map.

In another example, the assembly 120 may be used to form an informative container directed to childhood diseases offered in pharmacies, bookstores and the like. The assembly 120 may be imprinted with designs, texts or a combination thereof to form an expanded book diirected to childhood diseases.

Referring to FIG. 8, another embodiment of an assembly 180 which may be converted to one or more usable products is similarly formed from a single planar rectangular sheet of box material, such as paperboard or cardboard. The assembly 180 is similar in construction to the assembly 120 shown in FIG. 7 except that the score lines 223, 225, 227 and 229 separating the panels 222, 224, 226, 228 and 230 are not double fold score lines. Thus, adjacent top flaps 182, 184, 186, 188 and 190 abut each other and adjacent bottom flaps 192, 194, 196, 198 and 200 abut each other. The top flaps 182, 184, 186, 188 and 190, and the bottom flaps 192, 194,

196, 198 and 200 are hinged to be folded inwardly along their respective score lines 202, 204, 206, 208, and 210, and 212, 214, 216, 218 and 220 as shown in FIG. 8, to extend at substantially right angles to panels 222, 224, 226, 228 and 230, respectively, when the container is assembled.

As with the assemblies 10 and 120 shown in FIGS. 2 and 7, respectively, the planar rectangular sheet of box material forming the assembly 180 shown in FIG. 8 may be imprinted on both sides with designs, texts or a

combination thereof, such that the assembly 180, when fully assembled, functions as a container 100 as shown in FIG. 1, and when disassembled converts into one or more usable products without the need for adhesives, additional materials or tools. In the preferred embodiment, the assembly 180 shown in FIG. 8 forms a game board and storage container in one. In particular, the assembly 180 may be imprinted with designs, texts or a combination thereof to form a game board 232 as shown in FIG. 9.

Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, the game board 232 is formed by imprinting a game directly onto the assembly 180 or onto a planar sheet of paper glued onto the assembly 180 or some other suitable means to form the game board 232. For clarity and illustrative purposes, not all of the score and/or perforated lines are shown in FIG. 8. The elimination of the space between the flaps enables contiguous game play along the game board from one flap to the next adjacent flap. When the assembly 180 is assembled, a container 100 such as that shown in FIG. 1 is formed. The assembled container is used to hold game pieces and other related game parts, such as dice, spinners, and/or game cards. In accordance with an advantage of the invention, when assembled, the top flap 190, panel 230 and bottom flap 200 minimize the loss of game parts from the container. Additionally, the size of the assembly 180 may be changed to accommodate game player needs.

Referring to FIG. 10, in an alternative embodiment of the invention, the score lines and edges of the assembly 180 shown in FIG. 8 may be reinforced by tape 238 or other suitable means to form a reinforced assembly 236 as shown in FIG. 10. In particular, tape or other suitable means is applied to reinforce the edges and scored areas of the assembly 180 shown in FIG.

8 to prolong the life of a product formed, such as the game board shown in FIG. 9, from repeated openings and closings. In fact, all of the edges of the assembly 236 may be reinforced to prevent the edges from wearing or fraying, thus extending the life of the product.

Referring to FIG. 11, another embodiment of an assembly 240 which may be converted to one or more products is similarly formed from a single planar rectangular sheet of box material, such as paperboard or cardboard. As with the assemblies 10, 120, 180 shown in FIGS. 2, 7 and 8, respectively, the planar rectangular sheet of box material forming the assembly 240 shown in FIG. 11 may be imprinted on both sides with designs, texts or a combination thereof, such that the assembly 240, when fully assembled, functions as a container 100 as shown in FIG. 1, and when disassembled converts into one or more products without the need for adhesives, additional materials or tools. Preferably, the assembly 240 shown in FIG. 11 is imprinted with designs, texts or a combination thereof to form a game board with detachable game cards and storage container in one.

The assembly 240 is similar in construction to the assembly 180 shown in FIG. 8 except that the top flaps 244, 246 and 248, and the bottom flaps 254, 256 and 258 are hinged to be folded inwardly at a predetermined distance along perforated lines 292, 293, 294, 295, 296 and 297, respectively, to form detachable flaps. In the preferred embodiment, the detachable flaps are imprinted with designs, texts or a combination thereof to form game cards. The game board or game book is formed by the remaining assembly when the flaps 244, 246, 248, 254, 256 and 258 are detached.

When the assembly 240 is assembled, a container 100 such as that shown in FIG. 1 is formed. The container is used to hold game pieces and other related game

parts, such as dice, spinners, and/or game cards. In accordance with an advantage of the invention, when assembled, the top flap 250, panel 290 and bottom flap 260 keep any loose pieces of the game from falling out. Additionally, the size of the assembly 290 may be changed to accommodate game player needs.

For example, the assembly 240 may be used to form a character traits game series. The top flaps 244, 246 and 248, and the bottom flaps 254, 256 and 258, when detached from the assembly 240 form game cards.

Children act out various character traits according to the game card they pick. The book formed by the remaining assembly highlights the importance of various character traits at different ages, thus allowing players to learn and experience via acting out how particular character traits will serve them as they grow older.

Alternatively, in place of using flaps as game cards, a separate deck of the game cards are contained in the assembled container and the flaps 244, 246, 248, 254, 256, 258 form part of the game board.

Referring to FIG. 12, another embodiment of an assembly 300 which may be converted to one or more usable products is similarly formed from a single planar rectangular sheet of box material, such as paperboard or cardboard. The top flaps 302, 304, 306, 308 and 310, and the bottom flaps 312, 314, 316, 318 and 320 are hinged to be folded inwardly along their perforated lines 322, 324, 326, 328 and 330, and 332, 334, 336, 338 and 340 to extend at substantially right angles to panels 342, 344, 346, 348 and 350, respectively, when assembled as a container. Panel 342 is hinged to panel 344 by double fold score line 352, panel 344 is hinged to panel 346 by score line 354, panel 346 is hinged to

panel 348 by perforated line 356 and panel 348 is hinged to panel 350 by perforated line 358.

In accordance with the present invention, all of the panels of the assembly except for panel 346 are hole-punched 356 in appropriate locations so that when the panels are detached at the perforations, the holes line up on top of one another to form a binder, as described in detail below. Thus, when assembled, the assembly 300 forms a container 100 such as that shown in FIG. 1, and when unassembled, the assembly 300 forms a binder with insertable pages. Panel 342 forms the back of the binder, panel 344 forms the front of the binder and panel 346 forms the fold-out cover which is attached to the front of the cover along score line 354. The spine of the binder is formed by double score line 352. In operation, the binder is formed by first detaching the top flaps 302, 304, 306, 308 and 310, the bottom flaps 312, 314, 316, 318 and 320, and the center flaps 348 and 350 from the assembly 300 to form pages which may be inserted into the binder. The remaining panels 342, 344 and 346 are then folded along score lines 352 and 354 to form a binder with a fold-out cover. Remaining portions of the assembly 300 may be converted to use as other products. In an alternate embodiment of the invention, score line 354 is replaced by a perforated line and panel 346 is hole-punched and detached along the perforated line to form an additional page which may be inserted into the binder. Referring to FIG. 13(a), another embodiment of an assembly 454 which may be converted to one or more usable products is similarly formed from a single planar rectangular sheet of box material, such as paperboard or cardboard. Similar in construction to the assembly 180 shown in FIG. 8, the assembly 454 shown in FIG. 13(a) is

die cut to form various items. An illustrative example of how the present invention may be implemented is shown in FIG. 13(a) and described in detail below. As noted above, the present invention is not limited to the illustrative assembly 454 nor to any dimensions related thereto. In particular, the illustrative assembly 454 shown in FIG. 13(a) forms doll house with die cut windows, doors, walls and other parts of a toy house with parts, such as windows and doors, which bend open. The assembly 454 is furthermore perforated and scored to facilitate its unfolding and separating such that parts become cardboard dolls, furnishings, outdoor landscaping components, and doll clothing. A string may be added to the assembled container, or doll house, to facilitate its use as a carrying case.

Referring to FIG. 13(a), the top flaps 456, 458, 460, 462 and 464 are hinged to be folded inwardly along their respective score lines 476, 478, 480, 482 and 484 to extend at substantially right angles to panels 496, 498, 500, 502 and 504, respectively, when the assembly 454 is assembled as a container. The bottom flaps 466, 468, 470, 472 and 474 are hinged to be folded inwardly along their respective perforated lines 486, 488, 490, 492 and 494 to extend at substantially right angles to panels 496, 498, 500, 502 and 504, respectively, when the assembly 454 is assembled as a container.

As with the assembly 180 shown in FIG. 8, the planar rectangular sheet of box material forming the assembly 454 shown in FIG. 13(a) may be imprinted on both sides with designs, texts or a combination thereof, such that the assembly 454, when fully assembled, forms a container 100 as shown in FIG. 1, and when disassembled converts into one or more usable products, such as a house, without the need for adhesives, additional materials and tools.

In accordance with the present invention, the assembly may includes cutout or die cut items which include three-dimensional items, such as dolls, doll clothes, paperboard bridges, benches, tables, chairs and playhouses. In particular, the assembly may be imprinted and configured such that it substantially resembles an item with die cut parts, such as windows and doors, which fold open. For example, referring to FIG. 13(a), a doll house assembly 454 is shown with die cut parts. To form the doll house, the portions 516 and 517 are detached along the perforated lines 515 formed within the top panels 460 and 464. To form the gable, sections 521 are then folded inwardly along score lines 514. Pre-cut lines 506 formed within the top panel 462 form a tab 508 which is inserted into the slot 510 formed within the top panel 458 to secure the gable portions together. Score lines 512 are formed within top panels 458 and 462 to enable the gable to bend at the top and allow the tab 508 to fit into the slot 510. The windows 518 are formed by three cut lines 520 and one score line 522 connected to the cut lines 520 to enable the window 518 to fold open. The doors 526 are formed by three cut lines 526 and one score line 528 connected to the cut lines 526 to enable the door 526 to fold open. The table 530 is formed by perforated lines 532 outlined to form a table 530 which can be removed from the bottom flap 468. Score lines 534 enable the sides of the table 530 to bend to form the legs of the table 530. Referring to FIG. 13(b), another embodiment of an assembly 454 shown in FIG. 13(a) is shown. In particular, the assembly 540 shown in FIG. 13(b) further includes perforated lines 542, 544 and 546 formed along top flap 456, panel 496 and bottom panel 466, respectively. The portions 548, 550 and 552 are

detached along perforated lines 542, 544 and 546 thus shortening top flap 456, panel 496 and bottom flap 466. In the preferred embodiment, the shortened top flap 456 is folded inwardly along score line 476 to form a floor of the attach of the doll house. Alternatively, the top flap 456, panel 496 and bottom flap 466 may be used to create additional three-dimensional pieces, similar to the table 530 created in bottom panel 468.

In an alternate embodiment, slots may be formed within the assembly 454 to receive items which may be combined with the assembled container. For example, the doll house container may hold one or more items, such as a chimney. The assembly 454 is configured with slots for receiving such a chimney. A user thus can combine the chimney with the assembled doll house to form one product.

In another example, the present invention may be used to create a container including die-cut and/or pre- perforated portions which holds one or more items which when combined with the container substantially resembles a vehicle, such as a car or a train box car, or a rocket. For example to create a toy car, the container is be die-cut so that it becomes the cab of a toy car with doors and windows which fold open on a score or perforated line. In accordance with the present invention, the container holds one or more car related items, such as car wheels, a steering wheel and the like, which are combined with the container, in particular the die-cut and/or pre-perforated portions, to form a product, such as a toy car. For example, the car wheels may be held on a spindle which when are put through the die-cut holes of the container form a toy car with wheels.

Referring to FIG. 14, another embodiment of an assembly 400 which may be converted to one or more

usable products is similarly formed from a single planar rectangular sheet of box material, such as paperboard or cardboard. The assembly 400 is similar in construction to the assembly 180 shown in FIG. 8 except that the top flaps 402, 404, 406, 408 and 410, and the bottom flaps 412, 414, 416, 418 and 420 are hinged to be folded inwardly along their respective perforated lines 422, 424, 426, 428 and 430, and 432, 434, 436, 438 and 440, respectively, rather than score lines as shown in FIG. 8, to extend at substantially right angles to panels

442, 444, 446, 448 and 450, respectively, when assembled as a container.

As with the assembly 180 shown in FIG. 8, the planar rectangular sheet of box material forming the assembly 400 shown in FIG. 14 may be imprinted on both sides with designs, texts or a combination thereof, such that the assembly 400, when fully assembled, functions as a container 100 as shown in FIG. 1, and when disassembled converts into one or more usable products, including a scene such as the movie-like scene 452 shown in FIG. 15, without the need for adhesives, additional materials or tools. In particular, the scene, such as the movie-like scene 454, is formed by imprinting a scene directly onto the assembly 400 or onto a planar sheet of paper glued onto the assembly 400 or some other suitable means to form the game board 454.

Referring to FIG. 14, the panels 442, 444, 446, 448 and 450 are hinged along score lines such that when they form a continuous panel when the top flaps 402, 404, 406, 408 and 410, and the bottom flaps 412, 414, 416, 418 and 420 are detached from the assembly 400. The panels 442, 444, 446, 448 and 450 are imprinted with designs, texts or a combination thereof to form a scene, such as the movie-like set scene 452 shown in FIG. 15. The panels 442, 444, 446, 448 and 450 may furthermore be

die cut to form items, such as windows and doors, which bend open and shut.

In another example, the panels 442, 444, 446, 448 and 450 may be imprinted with designs, texts or a combination thereof to form a scene of real and make- believe communities around the country or the world. The panels 442, 444, 446, 448 and 450 may be accordingly die cut to form items, such as windows and doors, which bend open and shut. The top flaps 402, 404, 406, 408 and 410, and the bottom flaps 412, 414, 416, 418 and 420 may perforated within each said flap to form cutout items which may be detached from said flaps. The cutout items may be three-dimensional items, such as paperboard bridges, benches, tables and chairs, which fit into the scene.

Accordingly, spaces may be formed within the panels 442, 444, 446, 448 and 450 to receive such cutout items.

Additionally, some of the top and bottom flaps may be imprinted with designs, texts or a combination thereof to create products directed to the scene created. For example, for a scene directed towards different communities, some of the top and bottom flaps may include information regarding the characters in such towns, the challenges they have, and how they solve the challenges in an upstanding and moral manner.

Alternatively, the bottom flaps 412, 414, 416, 418 and 420 are not detached from the assembly 400, but rather are imprinted with designs, texts or a combination thereof to form a scene continuous with the scene imprinted on the panels 442, 444, 446, 448 and 450.

Referring to FIG. 16, in another embodiment of the invention, a pyramid shaped container 150, may be constructed in accordance with the present invention. The assembly 152 shown in FIG. 17 may be assembled and

converted into the pyramid shaped container 150 shown in FIG. 16 without the need for adhesives or additional materials. The assembly 152 is constructed from material, such as paperboard or cardboard, which is perforated and scored to facilitate its unfolding, separating, and refolding into various items. Alternatively, the assembly 150 may also be constructed from plastic or some other suitable material. The container 150 in accordance with the present invention thus becomes the primary product itself after manipulating the assembly 152 by opening, folding or otherwise changing its shape. The assembled container 150 may be used to hold various items, such as earrings or candy as well as those items described in connection with the container 100 shown in FIG. 1. To construct such products, the assembly 152 is perforated and scored to facilitate its folding, separating, and refolding into items of value and imprinted on both sides with various designs, texts or a combination thereof. By folding, separating, and refolding the assembly 152, one or more usable products may be formed, such as those discussed in connection with the assembly 10 shown in FIG. 2.

In the preferred embodiment, the assembly 152 is imprinted with designs, texts or a combination thereof to form a greeting card when unassembled. The assembly 152 is perforated and scored to facilitate its unfolding and separating such that when assembled, a container which resembles a holiday ornament, such as a Christmas tree ornament, is formed. The container may also be used to hold items, such as holiday gifts. Thus the assembly 152, when unassembled, forms a greeting card and when assembled, converts into one or more usable products without the need for additional materials.

In another embodiment of the invention, the assembly 152 is imprinted with designs, texts or a combination thereof to form a children's educational card when unassembled depicting for example A, B, C's. The assembly 152 is perforated and scored to facilitate its unfolding and separating such that when assembled, a container which resembles a children's educational pyramid block is formed. The container may also be used to hold items, such as educational items. Thus the assembly 152, when unassembled, forms a children's educational card and when assembled, converts into one or more usable products without the need for additional materials.

In still another embodiment of the invention, the assembly 152 is imprinted with designs, texts or a combination thereof to form a book when unassembled. The assembly 152 is perforated and scored to facilitate its unfolding and separating such that when assembled, a container which may be used to hold items is formed. Thus the assembly 152, when unassembled, forms a book and when assembled, converts into one or more usable products without the need for additional materials.

Referring to FIG. 17, an assembly 152 which may be converted to a multitude of usable products, in accordance with the preferred embodiment of the invention, is formed from a single planar rectangular sheet of box material, such as paperboard or cardboard. The assembly 152 is cut, scored and/or perforated appropriately to form various shapes and products. For example, the use of a single die having sharp blade edges to make cuts through the sheet material may be used, as illustrated by the solid lines in FIG. 17. Additionally, the die may have blunted edges that are pressed into the sheet to form score or fold lines, as illustrated by the elongated dashed lines in FIG. 17,

and razor edges to make perforations through the sheet material, as illustrated by the short dashed lines in FIG. 17. The planar sheet of box material may be imprinted on both sides with designs, texts or a combination thereof, such that the assembly 152 forms one or more usable items. The same assembly 152 when assembled forms a container 150 without the need for adhesives or additional materials.

Referring to FIG. 17, the assembly 152 includes panels 154, 156, 158, 160 and 162 that are hinged to be folded inwardly along their respective score or fold lines 164, 166, 168, 170 such that the panels 154, 156, 158, 160 and 162 form the sides of the assembled container 150 shown in FIG. 16. In the preferred embodiment of the invention, the panels 154, 156, 158, 160 and 162 are substantially triangular shaped.

As shown in FIG. 17, panel 154 is hinged to panel 156 by score line 164, panel 156 is hinged to panel 158 by score line 166, panel 158 is hinged to panel 160 by score line 168 and panel 160 is hinged to panel 162 by score line 170. In order to form a book, the score lines 164, 166, 168 and 170 may be dimensioned to create a double fold surface to facilitate design of the products formed by assembly 152. A tab 172 at the end of panel 162 is hinged along perforated line 174 to bend inwardly at a substantially right angle for insertion into narrow slot 176 disposed between adjacent panels 154 and 156, alongside score line 176. A locking tab 172 is disposed on each of the tab 172 adjoining the panel 162 for securing the tab 17 to the slot 176.

To assemble the assembly 152 into the container 150 shown in FIG. 16, the panels 154, 156, 158, 160 and 162 are folded inwardly, along score lines 164, 166, 168 and 170 such that a pyramid shaped container is formed. The

tab 172 is then folded along perforated line 174 to place the tab 74 adjacent the narrow upper slot 176 cut between panels 154 and 156, alongside the perforated line 176. In an alternate embodiment of the invention, score lines 164, 166, 168 and 170 are perforated lines instead, thus forming other types of card products, such as bookmarks.

Referring to FIG. 18(a), another embodiment of an assembly 600 which may be converted to one or more usable products is similarly formed from a single planar sheet of material, such as paperboard, cardboard, plastic sheeting, or a combination thereof. As with the previously shown and described assemblies, the assembly 600 shown in FIG. 18(a) may be die cut to form various items. As noted above, the present invention is not limited to the illustrative assembly 600 nor to any dimensions related thereto. In particular, the present invention is not limited to the twenty-one (21) , thirty- three (33) and twelve (12) panel and flap configurations shown in FIGS. 18(a), 18(b) and 19, respectively. Rather, a greater or lesser number of panels may be used in accordance with the present invention. The number of panels and/or flaps is limited only by the physical capabilities of a printing press sheet size.

As shown in FIG. 18(a), panel 658 is hinged to panel 660 by score line 672, panel 660 is hinged to panel 662 by score line 674, panel 662 is hinged to panel 664 by score line 676, panel 664 is hinged to panel 666 by score line 678, panel 666 is hinged to panel 668 by perforated lines 697 and 680, and panel 668 is hinged to panel 670 by score line 682. The score lines 672, 674, 676, 678, and 682 are preferably dimensioned to create a double-fold surface as shown in

FIG. 18(a) to facilitate design of the products formed by assembly 600.

The panels 658, 660, 662, 664, 666, 668 and 670 are surrounded on the top by top flaps 602, 604, 606, 608, 610, 612 and 614, and on the bottom by bottom flaps 616, 618, 620, 622, 624, 626 and 628. The top flap 614 and bottom flap 628 are preferably attached to panel 670 along score lines 642 and 656, respectively. The top flaps 602, 604, 606, 608, 610 and 612, and the bottom flaps 616, 618, 620, 622, 624 and 626 are shown attached to panels 658, 660, 662, 664, 666 and 668 along perforated lines 630, 632, 634, 636, 638, 640, 644, 646, 648, 650, 652 and 654, although depending on the product to be formed score lines may be used instead. The assembly 600, when fully assembled, functions as a container or consumer product package and when disassembled, converts into one or more usable products without the need for additional materials. Thus, for example, in one iteration, the container may be converted to, among other items, a book. Double-fold score line 682 is dimensioned to form a first spine for the book assembled from assembly 600.

As shown in FIG. 18(a), top panel 614 and bottom panel 628 includes perforated lines 684 and 686, respectively, disposed substantially parallel to score lines 642 and 656, respectively. The distance between lines 642 and 684 is preferably substantially equal to score line 682. Similarly, the distance between lines 656 and 686 is preferably substantially equal to the width of double-fold score line 682.

An end flap 688 extends out from the panel 670 and is hinged along score line 690. The end flap 688 forms a second spine for the assembled book. An elongated tab 692 is hinged to the end flap along score line 694 for insertion into narrow slot 696 cut into panel 668. The

tab 692 is configured in a shape suitable for securing the assembled book together. The tab 692 may also be used to secure together any products which may be formed by assembly 600 such as the storage container described in detail below.

In particular, the illustrative assembly 600 shown in FIG. 18(a) forms a book which folds open. The assembly 600 may be furthermore perforated and scored to facilitate its unfolding and separating such that additional products may be formed. These products include but are not limited to one or more of the following: script cards, package sell copy/graphics, trading or keepsake cards, mobile parts, a container for holding products including compact discs, three- dimensional products, and backgrounds scenes.

In particular, the assembly 600 shown in FIG. 18(a) is perforated and scored to facilitate its unfolding and separating such that a container may be formed. To form such a container, flap 614 is detached at perforated line 684, thus leaving a remaining portion attached to score line 642. Similarly, flap 628 is detached at perforated line 686, thus leaving a remaining portion attached to score line 656. Panel 668 is detached from flaps 612 and 626 and panel 666 along perforated line 697. The detached subassembly, comprised of panels 668 and 679, remaining portions of flaps 614 and 628, end flap 688 and elongated tab 692, may then be manipulated to form a container. In particular, remaining portions of flaps 614 and 628 are folded inwardly along score lines 642 and 656, respectively, to overlie panel 670. Panel 668 is then folded inwardly along score line 682 to overlie remaining portions of flaps 614 and 628 and panel 670. Finally end flap 688 is folded inwardly along score line 690 and elongated tap 692 is inserted into slot 696 on panel 668, securing the container

together. The container may be used to hold various products, including but not limited to the other panels and flaps of the assembly 600 when detached. In accordance with the present invention, the connecting lines for panels and flaps are not limited to those shown and/or described herein. Rather the connecting lines for panels and flaps can be perforated or scored depending upon usage. In particular, the score lines may be replaced with perforated lines, and vice versa, to facilitate the formation of different products. For example, as described with previous assemblies, perforated lines may be used for flaps which separate from the panels for use as items such as script cards, post cards, etc. In another example, if the center panels are used to form a book, connecting lines between center panels are scored and not perforated. However, if the center panels are used to form other products, such as additional script cards, then the connecting lines are perforated. To form other products, such as folding screens, connecting lines enabling the removal of a subassembly containing one or more panels are perforated and connecting lines between the panels in the subassembly are scored. For example, score lines 672 and 676 may be replaced with perforated lines such that panels 660 and 662 may be detached to form a subassembly which may be appropriately imprinted with designs, text or a combination thereof, to form a product, such as a background folding screen on one side and another background scene on the other side. Additionally, in the preferred embodiment, the width (i.e. the distance between score lines in a double score line) of adjacent double score lines is successively increased. For example, when utilizing eighty (80) pound cover stock, the width of double score line 672 is approximately 1/16 inch, the width of double

score line 674 is approximately 3/16 inch, the width of double score line 676 is approximately 5/16 inch, and so forth. The distance between adjacent flaps is approximately 1/8 inch greater than the width of their respective score lines.

Furthermore, the width of each double score line is determined in accordance with a number of factors, including the thickness of the material, e.g., board stock, utilized. Generally, the width increases as the thickness of the material increases. For example, as noted above, when utilizing an eighty (80) pound cover stock, the width of double score line 672 is approximately 1/16 inch. When utilizing a heavier pound cover stock, the width of double score line 672 will be approximately more than 1/16 inch and when utilizing a lesser pound cover stock, the width of double score line 672 will be approximately less than 1/16 inch.

As previously noted, the present invention is not limited to the twenty-one (21) panel and flap configuration shown in FIG. 18(a). Rather, a greater or lesser number of panels may be used in accordance with the present invention. Referring to FIG. 18(b), a thirty-three (33) panel and flap version of the assembly 600 shown in FIG. 18(a) is illustrated. In particular, assembly 601 shown in FIG. 18(b) is identical to assembly 600 shown in FIG. 18(a) except for the addition of flaps 603, 605, 607, 609, 611, 613, 615, 617, 619, 621, 623 and 625. Thus, to assemble assembly 601, flap 613 is folded along connecting line to overlie flap 602 which is folded along connecting line to overlie panel 658. Similarly, flap 625 is folded along connecting line to overlie flap 616 which is folded along connecting line to overlie flaps 613 and 602 and panel 658. The other flaps and panels are similarly manipulated.

The width (i.e. the distance between score lines in a double score line) of adjacent double score lines is successively increased. Additionally, in assembly 601, the width of adjacent double score lines is preferably increased over the width of the double score lines for assembly 600. For example, when utilizing the same or similar eighty (80) pound cover stock, the width of double score line 672 is approximately 1/8 inch, the width of double score line 674 is approximately 1/4 inch, the width of double score line 676 is approximately 3/8 inch, and so forth.

As previously noted, the present invention is not limited to the twenty-one (21) and thirty-three (33) panel and flap configuration shown in FIGS. 18(a) and 18(b). Rather, a greater or lesser number of panels may be used in accordance with the present invention. In particular, referring to FIG. 19, another assembly 700 is illustrated. Assembly 700 may be converted to one or more usable products and is similarly formed from a single planar sheet of material, such as paperboard, cardboard, plastic sheeting, or a combination thereof. As with the previously shown and described assemblies, the assembly 700 shown in FIG. 19 may be die cut to form various items. As shown in FIG. 19, panel 701 is hinged to panel

702 by score line 705, panel 702 is hinged to panel 703 by score line 706, and panel 703 is hinged to panel 704 by score line 707. The score lines 705, 706 and 707 are preferably dimensioned to create a double-fold surface as shown in FIG. 19 to facilitate design of the products formed by assembly 700.

The panels 701, 702, 703 and 704 are surrounded on one side by flaps 708, 709, 710 and 711, and the other side by flaps 712, 713, 714 and 715. Referring to FIG. 19, the flaps 708, 709, 710, 711, 712, 713, 714 and 715

are attached to panels 701, 702, 703 and 704 along perforated lines 716, 717, 718, 719, 720, 721, 722 and 723. The assembly 700, when fully assembled, functions as a container or consumer product package and when disassembled, converts into one or more usable products without the need for additional materials. Thus, for example, in one iteration, the container may be converted to, among other items, a hanging mobile.

Double-fold score line 707 is dimensioned to form a first spine for the assembled book. Score lines 719 and 723 are also preferably double-folded. As shown in FIG. 19, panel 711 includes perforated line 724 disposed substantially parallel to score line 719. An end flap 725 extends out from the panel 704 and is hinged along score line 726. The end flap 725 forms a second spine for the book assembled from assembly 700. An elongated tab 727 disposed at the one end of end flap 725 is hinged along score line 728 for insertion into narrow slot 729 cut into panel 703, adjacent and substantially parallel to score line 706. The tab 727 is configured in a shape suitable for securing the assembled book together. The tab 692 may also be used to secure together any products which may be formed by assembly 600 such as the container formed from subassembly 739 shown in FIG. 23(a) described in detail below. In particular, the illustrative assembly 700 shown in FIG. 19 forms a book which folds open. The assembly 700 may be furthermore perforated and scored to facilitate its unfolding and separating such that additional products, including a mobile beam 731 as shown in FIG. 21 and a container assembly (not shown) may be formed.

Referring to FIG. 19, to form a mobile beam 731 such as shown in FIG. 21, panels 701 and 702 are perforated and scored as shown in detail in FIG. 20 to form subassembly 730. In particular, referring to FIG.

20, a perforated centerline 732 divides each panel 701 and 702 into two parts. Perforated line 733 separates panel 701 from panel 702 along the region shown. Double-fold score line 734 separates panel 701 from panel 702 along the region shown, the other part of panels 701 and 702. A plurality of score lines, disposed parallel to the center line 732, divide assembly 730 into subpanels. As shown in FIG. 20, three (3) score lines 735 are preferably disposed on each side of the center line 732. When the perforated portions of assembly 730 are detached, one elongated mobile beam 731 as shown in FIG. 21, and two shorter, beams (not shown) may be formed. In particular, the beam may be formed by folding the detached subpanels into a triangular shaped mobile beam. The parts may be secured together by conventional means, such as adhesives.

Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 22, the assembly 730 shown in FIG. 20 may further include one or more tabs 736 and corresponding slots 737 for securing the mobile beam together. In particular, tabs 736, formed by perforated lines 738, engage corresponding slots 737 cut into panels 701 and 702.

The mobile beams are formed by detaching the perforated portions from the assembly and folding the perforated portions into triangular shaped mobile beams. The tabs 736 are then fittingly engaged with the corresponding slots 737 to secure each mobile beam together.

The assembly 700 shown in FIG. 19 may be furthermore perforated and scored to facilitate its unfolding and separating such that a container, such as a compact disc or CD ROM container, may be formed. Referring to FIG. 19, panel 704, flaps 711 and 715, end flap 725 and elongated tab 727 are perforated and scored as shown in detail in FIG. 23(a) to form subassembly

739. In particular, panel 711 is detached at perforated line 724, thus leaving remaining portion 740 attached to score line 719. The detached portion of panel 711 may be imprinted such that another product, such as a postcard, is formed. To assemble the container subassembly 739 shown in FIG. 23(a), flap 740 is folded inwardly along score line 719 to overlie panel 704. Panel 715 is then folded inwardly along score line 723 to overlie flap 740 and panel 704. Panel 703 is then folded inwardly along score line 707 to overlie the other panels and flaps. Finally, end flap 727 is folded inwardly along score line 726 and elongated tab 725 is inserted into slot 729 on panel 703, thus securing the container together. In accordance with an advantage of the present invention, the dimensions of container subassembly 739 may be configured and dimensioned such that a product, such as a compact disc or CD ROM, fits inside the formed container. Referring to FIG. 23(b), an apparatus for securing a compact disc to panel 704, such as a conventional compact disc plastic spider 871, may be secured to panel 704.

Furthermore, as previously noted, the assembly is not limited to the configuration shown in FIGS. 19, 23(a) or 23(b). Rather, the number of flaps and panels and/or the tab configuration may be varied. For example, assembly 741 shown in FIG. 24 is a fifteen (15) panel/flap version of the assembly 700 shown in FIG. 19. As shown in FIG. 24, assembly 741 is similar in construction to assembly 700 in FIG. 19, except for the addition of panel 742 and flaps 744 and 745, tabs 748 and 749 and corresponding slots 746 and 747.

Referring to FIG. 19, as with the other assemblies described herein, the score lines may be replaced with perforated lines, and vice versa, to facilitate the

formation of different products. For example, as with assembly 300 shown in FIG. 12, the panels of assembly 700 may be hole-punched and score lines may be replaced with perforated lines in appropriate locations , such that when the panels are detached at the perforations, the holes line up on top of one another to form a binder.

Referring to FIG. 24, the assembly 741 may be perforated and scored to facilitate its unfolding and separating such that additional products may be formed. The assembly 741, when fully assembled, functions as a container or consumer product package and when disassembled, converts into one or more usable products without the need for additional materials. Thus, for example, in one iteration, the container may be converted to, among other items, cards relating to the product enclosed with the formed container such as CD's or CD ROM's, package sell copy/graphics, reference cards, trading cards or keepsake cards, cards or shapes to hang from a mobile, beams to support the mobile, keepsake container to hold any parts or contents of the container, including CD's or CD ROM's.

Referring to FIG. 25, another embodiment of the present invention is illustrated. Assembly 755 may be converted to one or more usable products and is similarly formed from a single planar sheet of material, such as paperboard, cardboard, plastic sheeting, or a combination thereof. As with the previously shown and described assemblies, the assembly 755 may be die cut to form various items, including but not limited to a promotional mailer with postcards and selling panels.

As shown in FIG. 25, panel 756 is hinged to panel 757 by score line 761, panel 757 is hinged to panel 758 by score line 762, panel 758 is hinged to panel 759 by

score line 763, and panel 759 is hinged to panel 760 by score line 764. The score lines 761, 762, 763 and 764 are preferably dimensioned to create a double-fold surface as shown in FIG. 25 to facilitate design of the products formed by assembly 755.

The panels 756, 757, 758, 759 and 760 are surrounded on one side by flaps 765, 766, 767, 768 and 769, and the other side by flaps 770, 771, 772, 773 and 774. End flaps 775 and 776 extend out from flaps 769 and 774, respectively. Connected to end flaps 775 and 776 are tabs 777 and 778, respectively, which are configured to engage and interlock with slots 781 and 782, respectively. Additionally, the width of adjacent double score lines is successively increased. For example, the width of double score line 761 is approximately 1/8 inch, the width of double score line 762 is approximately 1/4 inch, the width of double score line 763 is approximately 3/8 inch, and the width of double score line 764 is approximately 1/2 inch. As with the previous assemblies, the planar sheet of material forming the assembly 755 shown in FIG. 25 may be imprinted on both sides with designs, texts or a combination thereof, such that the assembly 755, when fully assembled, functions as a container, and when disassembled converts into one or more usable products, including postcards and selling copy panels. In particular, top flaps 765, 766, 767, 768 and 769, and bottom flaps 770, 771, 772, 773 and 774 may be detached to form postcards. Remaining panels 756, 757, 758, 759 and 760 may be imprinted on both sides such that one side becomes selling copy panels for the postcards formed by the top flaps 765, 766, 767, 768 and 769 and the other side becomes selling copy panels for the postcards formed by the bottom flaps 770, 771, 772, 773 and 774.

Another embodiment of the invention is illustrated in FIG. 26. In particular, in FIG. 26, assembly 780 is a twelve (12) panel/flap version of the assembly 700 shown in FIG. 19. The assembly 780 may be perforated and scored to facilitate its unfolding and separating such that additional products may be formed. The assembly 780, when fully assembled, functions as a container or consumer product package and when disassembled, converts into one or more usable products without the need for additional materials. Thus, for example, in one iteration, the container may be converted to, among other items, script cards, package sell copy/graphics, characters of a movie/story, trading or keepsake cards, cards or shapes to hang from a mobile, beams to support the mobile, container to hold items such as CD's or CD ROMS, 3-dimensional props or toys, and background scene folding screens.

As shown in FIG. 26, assembly 780 is similar in construction to assembly 700 in FIG. 19, except for variation in the tab and slot portions. In particular, referring to FIG. 26, connected to end flaps 781 and 782 are tabs 784 and 785, respectively, which are configured to engage and interlock with slots 786 and 787, respectively. The panels and the flaps are folded as previously described with respect to other assemblies to form a container. As with assembly 755 shown in FIG. 25, the distance between adjacent flaps is successively increased.

Referring to FIG. 26, in accordance with an advantage of the present invention, panel 788, disposed adjacent panel 783, enables assembly 780 to be imprinted 2-up, versus 1-up on a standard size sheet, thus lowering production cost and minimizing cost. In other words, when assembly 780 is imprinted 2-up, two complete versions, versus only one, can be printed on the same

maximum size printing sheet. Panel 789 provides numerous advantages for the assembled container, including but not limited to additional rigidity, a neater looking container without an elliptical peering into the container, additional strength such that panel 783 does not bow-out, and prevents contents from falling out of the container.

Referring to FIG. 27, in another embodiment of the invention, an assembly 790 may be converted to one or more usable products and is similarly formed from a single planar sheet of material, such as paperboard, cardboard, plastic sheeting, or a combination thereof. As with the previously shown and described assemblies, the assembly 790 shown in FIG. 27 may be die cut to form various items. The assembly 790, when fully assembled, functions as a container or consumer product package and when disassembled, converts into one or more usable products without the need for additional materials. Thus, for example, in one iteration, the container may be converted to, among other items, a calendar as shown in FIG. 28 and a book-shaped storage pocket open at the top.

In particular, as illustrated in FIG. 27, panel 791 is hinged to panel 792 by perforated line 796, panel 792 is hinged to panel 793 by perforated line 797, panel 793 is hinged to panel 794 by perforated line 798, and panel 794 is hinged to panel 795 by perforated line 799. The panels 791, 792, 793 and 794 are connected on one side to flaps 800, 801, 802 and 803, respectively, and to the other side to flaps 805, 806, 807 and 808, respectively, by score lines. Panel 795 is connected to flaps 804 and 809 by score lines 810 and 811, respectively. Score lines 810 and 811 are preferably dimensioned to create a double-fold surface as shown in FIG. 27 to facilitate design of the products formed by assembly 790. End tabs

816 and 817 are attached by score lines 820 and 821, respectively, to flap 804. Similarly, end tabs 818 and 819 are attached by score lines 822 and 823, respectively, to flap 809. End tabs 816, 817, 818 and 819 fold under flaps, at top and bottom, to hold the assembled container closed and secure. Panel 825 is connected to panel 795 by score line 824, preferably double-folded.

Flap 804 also includes a perforated line portion 813 and a slot 812 for receiving a tab formed from perforated slot portion on flap 809. Thus, in accordance with the present invention, flaps 804 and 809 and panels 795 and 825 may be detached from the rest of assembly 790 to form a subassembly which when assembled forms a book-shaped storage pocket. To assemble the subassembly into a book-shaped storage pocket, panel 825 is folded inwardly along score line 824 to overlie part of panel 795 and form the bottom of the storage pocket. Detached flap 804 is then folded inwardly along score line 810 to overlie panels 795 and 825. Detached flap 809 is similarly folded inwardly along score line 811 such that the end tab formed by perforated line 815 may be inserted into slot 812.

Assembly 790 may be furthermore imprinted such that a calendar may be formed. In particular, referring to FIG. 28, a calendar may be formed by detaching the calendar portion along perforated line 799. The calendar can furthermore be detached along perforated lines 796, 797 or 798 to form smaller calendar sections 831 and 832 containing a panel and two flaps, as shown in FIGS. 29(a) and 29(b).

Referring to FIG. 30, another assembly 840 is illustrated. Assembly 840 may be converted to one or more usable products and is preferably formed from two laminated card planar sheets, each approximately 1/64

inch thickness for a total thickness of approximately 1/32 inch. Alternatively, the assembly 840 may be formed from a single planar sheet of material, such as paperboard, cardboard, plastic sheeting, or a combination thereof. As with the previously shown and described assemblies, the assembly 840, when fully assembled, functions as a container or consumer product package and when disassembled, converts into one or more usable products without the need for additional materials. Thus, for example, in one iteration, the container may be converted to, among other items, milk caps and items related thereto.

As shown in FIG. 30, panel 841 is hinged to panel 842 by score line 846, panel 842 is hinged to panel 843 by score line 847, panel 843 is hinged to panel 844 by score line 848, and panel 844 is hinged to panel 845 by score line 849. The score lines 846, 847, 848 and 849 are preferably dimensioned to create a double-fold surface as shown in FIG. 30 to facilitate design of the products formed by assembly 840.

The panels 841, 842, 843, 844 and 845 are connected on one side by flaps 850, 851, 852, 853 and 854 and the other side by flaps 855, 856, 857, 858 and 859 by score lines. Additionally, the width (i.e. the distance between score lines in a double score line) of adjacent double score lines is successively increased. For example, the width of double score line 846 is approximately 1/8 inch, the width of double score line 847 is approximately 1/4 inch, the width of double score line 848 is approximately 3/8 inch, and the width of double score line 849 is approximately 1/2 inch.

Flaps 854 and 859 are extended in length compared with the other flaps 850, 851, 852, 853, 855, 856, 857 and 858. Flaps 854 and 859 form the top and bottom lids for the assembled container. An elongated tab 863,

preferably substantially rectangular shaped with rounded corners, is hinged along score line 864 to flap 854 to bend inwardly at a substantially right angle for insertion into narrow slot 865 cut into panel 843 and flap 852. Similarly, an elongated tab 868, preferably substantially rectangular shaped with rounded corners, is hinged along score line 869 to flap 859 to bend inwardly at a right angle for insertion into narrow slot 870 cut into panel 843 and flap 857. The tabs 863 and 868, although preferably substantially rectangular shaped, may be configured in other shapes, such as wedge-shaped, suitable for securing the container together.

In accordance with the present invention, as shown in FIG. 30, all panels and flaps include substantially circular shaped perforations 860 which are appropriately imprinted to form milk caps when removed from the assembly 840. The assembly 840 may be furthermore imprinted, perforated and scored to facilitate its unfolding and separating such that additional products, such as a container assembly for storing the milk caps, a game related to milk caps and/or a toy may be formed.

Referring to FIGS. 31 and 32, an asser±>ly 875 constructed in accordance with another embodiment of the invention is shown. Assembly 875 may be converted to one or more usable products and is preferably formed from a single planar sheet of material, such as paperboard, cardboard, plastic sheeting, or a combination thereof. As with the previously shown and described assemblies, the assembly 875, when fully assembled, functions as a container or consumer product package and when disassembled, converts into one or more usable products without the need for additional materials. Thus, for example, in one iteration, the container may be converted to, among other items, a

storage container, game board such as a 56-piece matching game, puzzle, mobile including support beams and items related thereto, as shown in detail in FIG. 32 As shown in FIGS. 31 and 32, flap 876 and panel 877 may be scored, perforated and/or imprinted such that they form one or more mobile pieces. Similar to FIG. 22, flap 878 may be scored, perforated and/or imprinted such that they form mobile support beams. Additionally, flaps 879 and 880 may be manipulated to form a game, such as a multiple piece matching game, panels 881 and 882 and flaps 883 and 884 may be scored, perforated and/or imprinted to form a jig saw puzzle. Flaps 885 and 887 and panel 886 may be scored, perforated and/or imprinted to form a storage case for the products, such as the game and jig saw puzzle, formed. As with the other assemblies, assembly 875 is not limited to the configuration shown therein. Rather, the remaining panels and flaps may be similarly manipulated to form additional products. Referring to FIG. 33(a) , an assembly 11 constructed in accordance with another embodiment of the invention is shown. Assembly 11 may be converted to one or more usable products and is preferably formed from a single planar sheet of material, such as paperboard, cardboard, plastic sheeting, or a combination thereof. As with the previously shown and described assemblies, the assembly 11, when fully assembled, functions as a container or consumer product package and when disassembled, converts into one or more usable products without the need for additional materials. Thus, for example, in one iteration, the container may be converted to, among other items, a storage container, a cube-shaped container which may be imprinted with designs, text or a combination thereof to form one or more dice-shaped products.

Any dice-shaped products formed herein may be used to play a game, such as an action game. In operation, the dice-shaped product can be projected onto a game surface. Additionally, such dice-shaped products may be collected and traded, similar to the trading cards and stickers formed herein. Alternatively, any dice-shaped products may be hole-punched on one face such that it may be converted to be used as a button cover and easily slipped over a button such as one sewn on a shirt. As shown in FIG. 33(a) , panel 13 is attached to panel 17 by double-fold score line 37, panel 17 is attached to panel 27 by perforated line 39, and panel 27 is attached to panel 29 by perforated line 41. The panels 13, 17, 27 and 29 are surrounded on one side by flaps 14, 21, 23 and 25, and the other side by flaps 19, 31, 33 and 35. Referring to FIG. 33(a) , the flaps 21, 23 and 25 are attached to panels 17, 27 and 29 along perforated lines 43, 45 and 47, respectively. Flaps 31, 33 and 35 are attached to panels 17, 27 and 29 along perforated lines 49, 51 and 53, respectively. The assembly 11, when fully assembled, functions as a container or consumer product package and when disassembled, converts into one or more usable products without the need for additional materials. Thus, for example, in one iteration, the container may be converted to, among other items, a dice-shaped product. Panel 13 is connected to end flap 21 by score line 55 and to panels 15 and 19 by double-fold score lines 67 and 69, respectively. Referring to FIG. 33(a) , panels 13 and 17, end tab

21 and flaps 15 and 19 are perforated and scored to form subassembly 61 shown in FIG. 34. In particular, panel 17 is detached along perforated line 267 and flaps 21 and 31 along score lines 43 and 49, respectively. The assembly 61, when fully assembled, functions as a

storage container. Flap 19 includes a tab portion 71 for insertion into slot 65 formed in flap 15. To assemble the container subassembly 61 shown in FIG. 34, end tab 21 is folded along score line 55 and double-fold score line 57 to overlie panel 13. Panel 17 is then folded inwardly along double-fold score line 37 to overlie flap 21 and panel 13. Panel 15 is then folded inwardly along double-fold score line 67 to overlie the other panels and flaps. Finally, panel 19 is folded inwardly along double-fold score line 69 and tab portion 71 is inserted into slot 65 on panel 15, thus securing the container together. In accordance with an advantage of the present invention, the dimensions of container subassembly 61 may be configured and dimensioned such that a product fits inside the assembled container. The assembly 11 shown in FIG. 33(a) may be furthermore perforated and scored to facilitate its unfolding and separating such that a subassembly, when imprinted with designs, text or a combination thereof and assembled, forms a dice-shaped product 75 as shown in FIG. 35. In particular, one or more of remaining panels 27 or 29, or flaps 21, 23, 25, 31, 33 or 35 may be scored and/or perforated to form the subassemblies 77, 79, 81 and 83 shown in FIGS. 36(a) , 36(b) , 36(c) and 36(d), respectively, which when assembled form the dice- shaped product 75 shown in FIG. 35. In particular, each of the assemblies 77, 79, 81 and 83 are imprinted on one or panels and/or flaps on assembly 11 shown in FIG. 33(a). Referring to FIG. 36(d), the subassembly 83 includes a circular portion 85 including an opening on one-face. The subassembly 83 when formed may be converted to be used as a button cover and which can be easily slipped over a button through the circular portion 85.

In accordance with the present invention, the subassemblies 77, 79, 81 and 83 may alternatively be configured as individual whole assemblies, i.e., such as assembly 11 shown in FIG. 33(a). Furthermore, as previously noted, the assembly is not limited to the configurations shown above. Rather, the number of flaps and panels and/or the tab configuration may be varied. As with all the assemblies described herein, the score lines may be replaced with perforated lines, and vice versa, to facilitate the formation of different products, such as a hanging mobile assembly with mobile beam. For example, referring to FIG. 33(b), an alternate embodiment of the assembly 11 shown in FIG. 33(a) is illustrated. In particular, the assembly 267 shown in FIG. 33(b) includes the same number of panels and flaps as the assembly 11 shown in FIG. 33(a). Assembly 267 is furthermore perforated and scored to form a mobile beam assembly 269 which when assembled forms a mobile beam similar to the mobile beam 731 shown in FIG. 21. As shown in FIG. 33(c), the assembly 267 shown in FIG. 33(b) may be furthermore perforated and scored to form one or more cutout figures 271.

Referring to FIG. 37(a), an assembly 101 constructed in accordance with another embodiment of the invention is shown. Assembly 101 may be converted to one or more usable products and is preferably formed from a single planar sheet of material, such as paperboard, cardboard, plastic sheeting, or a combination thereof. As with the previously shown and described assemblies, the assembly 101, when fully assembled, functions as a container or consumer product package and when disassembled, converts into one or more usable products without the need for additional materials. Thus, for example, in one iteration, the

container may be converted to, among other items, a storage container, and one or more cube-shaped products which may be imprinted with designs, text or a combination thereof to one or more form dice-shaped products.

As shown in FIG. 37(a), panel 103 is attached to panel 105 by double-fold score line 111, panel 105 is attached to panel 107 by perforated line 113, and panel 107 is attached to panel 109 by perforated line 115. The panels 103, 105, 107 and 109 are surrounded on one side by flaps 117, 119, 121 and 123 and the other side by flaps 125, 127, 129 and 131. Referring to FIG. 37(a), the flaps 117, 119 and 121 are attached to panels 103, 105 and 107 along perforated lines 135, 137 and 139, respectively. Flaps 125, 127 and 129 are attached to panels 103, 105 and 107 along perforated lines 141, 143 and 145, respectively. Additionally, the width (i.e. the distance between score lines in a double score line) of adjacent double score lines 111, 113 and 115 is successively increased. For example, the width of double score line 111 is approximately 1/8 inch, the width of double score line 113 is approximately 1/4 inch, the width of double score line 115 is approximately 3/8 inch, and so forth. The assembly 101, when fully assembled, functions as a container or consumer product package and when disassembled, converts into one or more usable products without the need for additional materials. Thus, for example, the container may be converted to one or more cube-shaped products which may be imprinted with designs, text or a combination thereof to one or more form dice-shaped products. In particular, flaps 117, 119, 121, 125, 127 and 129 are die cut, scored and perforated such that when they are detached along their respective perforated lines from the panels 103, 105 and

107, subassemblies are formed. Panels 103 and 105 are also die cut, scored and perforated. Subassemblies are formed when the perforated portions are detached from the panels. The subassemblies may be converted to one or more cube-shaped products which may be imprinted with designs, text or a combination thereof to one or more form dice-shaped products. The flaps are not limited to the die cut, scored and perforated configuration shown in FIG. 37(a). Rather, various configurations, such as three-dimensional characters, animals or props, including but not limited to the configurations shown in FIG. 36(a) through (d) , may be used.

The assembly 101 shown in FIG. 37(a) may be furthermore perforated and scored to facilitate its unfolding and separating such that a subassembly, when imprinted with designs, text or a combination thereof and assembled, forms a storage container for holding products, such as the dice-shaped products formed from panels 103 and 105 and flaps 117, 119, 121, 125, 127 and 129. In particular, attached to panel 109 by score line 149 is panel 147. Panel 147 includes score lines 155 and 163 for facilitating formation of the storage container structure. Attached to panel 147 by score line 153 is end tab 151. Referring to FIG. 37(a), panels 107, 109 and 147, end tab 151 and flaps 123 and 131 are perforated and scored to form a subassembly which forms a storage container for holding products. In particular, flap 121 is detached along perforated line 139, flap 129 is detached along perforated line 145 and panel 107 is detached along perforated line 165.

To assemble the container subassembly, panel 147 is folded along score lines 149 and 155 to overlie panel 109. Panel 107 is then folded inwardly along double- fold score line 115 to overlie panel 147 and end flap

panel 151. Panel 131 is then folded inwardly along score lines 157 and 169 to overlie the other panels and flaps. Finally, flap 123 is folded inwardly along score lines 159 and 167 and tab portion 173 of flap 123 is inserted into slot 161 on flap 131, thus securing the container together. In accordance with an advantage of the present invention, the dimensions of the container subassembly may be configured and dimensioned such that a product fits inside the assembled container. in the preferred embodiment, the dimensions of assembly are as shown in FIG. 37(a) . The present invention is not, however, limited to the dimensions shown therein. Rather, the dimensions may be varied depending on the products formed. Furthermore, as previously noted, the assembly is not limited to the configurations shown above. Rather, the number of flaps and panels and/or the tab configuration may be varied. As with all the assemblies described herein, the score lines may be replaced with perforated lines, and vice versa, to facilitate the formation of different products. For example, assembly 273 shown in FIG. 37(b) is similar to assembly 101 shown in FIG. 37(a) except for the following: the width of double fold score lines 275, 277 and 279 is constant rather than successively increased as with double fold score lines 111, 113 and

115 in assembly 101; assembly 273 includes slots 281 and 283, flaps 285 and 287 and corresponding tabs 289 and 291; and assembly 273 does not include tab 151 and slot 171 shown in assembly 101. Referring to FIG. 38, another embodiment of an assembly 201 which may be converted to one or more usable products is similarly formed from a single planar sheet of material, such as paperboard, cardboard, plastic sheeting, or a combination thereof. As with the previously shown and described assemblies, the assembly

201 shown in FIG. 38 may be die cut to form various items. As shown in FIG. 38, all the flaps 203, 205, 207, 209, 211, 213, 215 and 217, and panels 219, 221, 223, 225 and 227 are preferably attached to each other by perforated lines 229, although depending on the product to be formed score lines may be used instead.

The assembly 201, when fully assembled, functions as a container or consumer product package and when disassembled, converts into one or more usable products without the need for additional materials. In accordance with the present invention, the same container may be disassembled to create other reusable products without the need for additional materials or tools. Preferably, the assembly 201 is perforated and imprinted with designs, texts or a combination thereof to form card products. For example, the panels and flaps of assembly 201 may be imprinted with sport or entertainment celebrity and/or other information. Thus, when the panels and flaps are detached from one another, cards with sport or entertainment information are produced. Panel 219 may alternatively be used as a selling panel.

Referring to FIG. 39, another embodiment of an assembly 241 which may be converted to one or more usable products is similarly formed from a single planar sheet of material, such as paperboard, cardboard, plastic sheeting, or a combination thereof. As with the previously shown and described assemblies, the assembly 241 shown in FIG. 39 may be die cut to form various items. As shown in FIG. 39, a score line 243 divides the single planar sheet of material such that the material can be folded in half. In the preferred embodiment, the sheet of material is dimensioned such that it forms a standard greeting card in 22 pt weight. The assembly 241 is furthermore scored and perforated

such that the greeting card may be converted into one or more other products, such as a mailable cube-shaped container imprinted with designs, texts or a combination thereof to form a greeting container, and/or three- dimensional characters, animals or props. Referring to FIG. 39, an inner assembly is formed when the panels and flaps are detached along the perforated lines 245. The assembly is assembled into a container as previously described with similar embodiments and the tabs portions 259 and 261 are inserted into slots 263 and 265, respectively, to secure the container together. Thus, in accordance with the present invention, the assembly 241, when fully assembled, functions as a greeting card and when disassembled, converts into one or more usable products without the need for additional materials. In accordance with the present invention, the same greeting card may be disassembled to create other reusable products without the need for additional materials or tools. For example, in the assembly 241 shown in FIG. 39, the greeting card may be converted to an assembly which when assembled forms a container. The container, once disassembled, converts into one or more usable products, depending on the way the assembly is scored, perforated and/or imprinted. The present invention not limited to the inner assembly embodied in the greeting-card assembly shown in FIG. 39. Rather, various inner assemblies, including but not limited to any of the assemblies described herein, can be embodied in the greeting-card assembly. In particular, as with the assembly 241 shown in FIG.

40, a score line 253 divides the single planar sheet of material such that the material can be folded in half. The sheet of material is dimensioned such that it forms a standard greeting card in 22 pt weight. The assembly 251 is furthermore scored and perforated such that the

greeting card may be converted into one or more other products. In this embodiment, the assembly 251 includes inner assemblies 255 similar to that shown in FIG. 36(c). In particular, two inner assemblies are shown on each side of the assembly 251. The present invention, however, is not limited to a particular number of inner assemblies. Referring to FIG. 40, four inner assemblies 255 are formed when the panels and flaps are detached along the perforated lines 257. Thus, in accordance with the present invention, the assembly 251, when fully assembled, functions as a greeting card and when disassembled, converts into one or more usable products without the need for additional materials. In accordance with the present invention, the same greeting card may be disassembled to create other reusable products without the need for additional materials or tools. For example, in the assembly 251 shown in FIG. 40, the greeting card may be converted to inner assemblies 255 which when assembled forms containers and when disassembled, converts into one or more cube-shaped products which may be imprinted with designs, text or a combination thereof to one or more form dice-shaped products.

It will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that the present invention is not limited to what has been shown and described hereinabove, nor the dimensions of sizes of the physical implementation described immediately above. For example, the present invention may be constructed using different dimensions to accommodate different usable products. The scope of invention is limited solely by the claims which follow.