Abstract: An apparatus for use while moving a container from a first processing station to a second processing station of a packaging machine is set forth which includes pincers for temporarily holding the sealing panels of the container in a generally closed condition as the container is moved from the first processing station to the second processing station. In accordance with one embodiment of a packaging machine that includes the apparatus, the first processing station may be a filling station and the second processing station may be a sealing station. In accordance with another embodiment of the apparatus, a corresponding method is also contemplated.

Abstract: A gable top carton and its corresponding carton blank are disclosed. The carton includes curved side creases that are defined by curved score lines that divide one or more side panels from a top gabled structure and/or a bottom structure.

Abstract: A reducible volume container includes a package wall having an interior surface and an exterior surface, with at least one tear strip formed in the package wall. The tear strip is defined by a pair of generally parallel frangible tear lines. Each tear line includes a pair of generally parallel creases formed on the interior surface of the package wall, and a linear cut formed in the exterior of the package wall. The linear cut is disposed in an area between the parallel creases and has a depth extending only partly through the thickness of the package wall.

Abstract: A carton blank includes a laminated blank body having a top and a bottom. A plurality of bottom creases are formed in the bottom of the blank body. The bottom creases define bottom flaps that are adapted to be folded and sealed to form a substantially rectangular bottom surface of a finished gable top carton. The bottom flaps are sealed together along a bottom seal that substantially bisects the bottom surface of the finished carton. A plurality of top creases are formed in the top of the blank body. The top creases define top flaps that are adapted to be folded and sealed into a gable top of the finished gable top carton, with the gable top having an upstanding longitudinal top fin. The top creases are arranged on the blank body to enable the carton blank to be folded and sealed such that the top fin of the finished gable top carton may be either parallel with, or transverse to, the bottom seal of the finished gable top carton.