Abstract: Corrugated box constructions suitable for packaging, storing and transporting flat rectangular objects such as books and the like. The box has an upper member and a lower member, each with a generally rectangular central panel, a pair of side panels, one of which is hingedly joined to each of the opposite ends of the central panel. Attached to each side panel of the upper member is an underlying panel and attached each side panel of the lower member is an overhanging panel. The side panels of the lower member fold upward, then the overhanging panel folds parallel to the central panel. The side panels of the upper member fold perpendicularly downward, then underlying panel folds under the central panel of the lower member. The upper member is attached to the lower member with an optional adhesive or strap. Preferably an adhesive is situated on the overhanging and underlying panels. The construction allows for packaging products of various sizes and hence greatly reduces waste.

Abstract: Corrugated box constructions suitable for packaging, storing and transporting flat rectangular objects such as books and the like. The box has a generally rectangular central panel, a pair of side panels hingedly joined to one of the opposite ends of the central panel. The side panels fold first perpendicularly and then parallel to the central panel and have a leaf-spring terminus. A top panel is hingedly joined to one of the transverse sides of the central panel. The top panel folds first perpendicularly upward, then parallel, then perpendicularly downward and under the central panel. The construction allows for packaging products of various sizes and yet provides a cushioned retention of the product without changing the carton size.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for cutting open a sealed box. A box typically has several of planar panels having a thickness and which panels meet at edges to define a box length, width and height and a central cavity. A box is conveyed to a cutting station where it is urged against a rotating blade which cuts through a box edge and pierces parallel to the plane of and into the thickness of one of the planar panels without entering the central cavity. The apparatus and method are useful for slitting boxes containing rectangular objects without marring the box contents. The apparatus is particularly useful for cutting open boxes containing books or the like, without damaging the box contents.