Wrap-type carton

Abstract

The present invention provides a carton used for packaging and displaying goods. The carton includes a transparent, plastic blank which is folded to encapsulate and secure the goods therein. The carton further includes a cardboard blank which is folded and wrapped around the plastic blank. The cardboard blank is secured to itself by a friction fit. The cardboard blank provides a front face of the carton such that the front face of the carton can be dedicated to full, stylish graphics. The cardboard blank further provides a back face of the carton and has an aperture therethrough such that the back face of the carton provides visibility to the plastic blank and, thus, the goods encapsulated within the plastic blank.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a carton for packaging goods.

There are many different types of cartons which are used for packaging goods to be sold in a store. In the case of the consumer electronics accessories market, for example, these cartons are used to package and display varying electronics accessories, for example, wall mounting brackets for regular, flat screen and projection televisions. Currently, in this market, the packaging of choice is a clear plastic molded tray or enclosure of sorts that contains one or more of the wall mounting brackets. Typically, in order to advertise the contents of the packaging, a flat pad or card is placed inside the plastic tray for graphics and print. Such a packaging, though, does not provide for the manufacturer of the packaged goods to provide substantial information thereon or allow the manufacturer to package the goods in a carton which will catch the eye of the consumer.

Also, the clear plastic tray or enclosure currently used to package the goods are typically very difficult for the consumer to open once the consumer has purchased the goods, such that the consumer will generally have to use a pair or scissors or a knife in order to open the clear plastic tray or enclosure in order to gain access to the goods therein.

Thus, there is a need for a carton for packaging goods which overcomes the disadvantages of the prior art cartons used for packaging goods. The present invention provides such a new and novel design for a carton for packaging goods.

OBJECTS AND SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

A primary object of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide a carton for packaging goods which has cardboard wrapped around a clear plastic portion such that one whole side of the carton is cardboard, dedicated to full, stylish graphics, and on the other side of the carton the plastic portion protrudes out of a designated area of the cardboard to display the goods within the plastic portion.

An object of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide a carton for packaging goods which is configured to provide substantial information regarding the packaged goods on an outer cardboard portion thereof.

Another object of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide a carton for packaging goods which is configured to protect the goods therein.

Still another object of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide a carton for packaging goods which puts the packaged goods on display such that a consumer can readily view the packaged goods.

Another object of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide a carton for packaging goods which can be readily opened after purchase without the use of some sort of tool.

Yet another object of an embodiment of the present invention is to provide a carton for packaging goods which is configured to be hung from a hang hook in a store.

Briefly, and in accordance with the foregoing, the present invention provides a carton used for packaging and displaying goods. The carton includes a transparent, plastic blank which is folded to encapsulate and secure the goods therein. The carton further includes a cardboard blank which is folded and wrapped around the plastic blank. The cardboard blank is secured to itself by a friction fit. The cardboard blank provides a front face of the carton such that the front face of the carton can be dedicated to full, stylish graphics. The cardboard blank further provides a back face of the carton and has an aperture therethrough such that the back face of the carton provides visibility to the plastic blank and, thus, the goods encapsulated within the plastic blank.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The organization and manner of the structure and operation of the invention, together with further objects and advantages thereof, may best be understood by reference to the following description taken in connection with the accompanying drawings wherein like reference numerals identify like elements in which:

FIG. 1 is a top plan view of an inner surface of a cardboard blank used in forming the carton of the invention;

FIG. 2 is a top plan view of an outer surface of the cardboard blank used in forming the carton of the invention;

FIG. 3 is a top plan view of an outer surface of a plastic blank used in forming the carton of the invention;

FIG. 4 is a top plan view of an inner surface of the plastic blank used in forming the carton of the invention;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the plastic blank used in forming the carton of the invention being folded;

FIGS. 6-8 are perspective views of the cardboard blank being folded or wrapped around the already folded plastic blank;

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the formed carton of the invention having goods packaged therein and visible through an aperture in the cardboard blank which is wrapped around the plastic blank; and

FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view of the formed carton of the invention having the goods packaged therein taken along line 10-10 of FIG. 9.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE ILLUSTRATED EMBODIMENT

While this invention may be susceptible to embodiment in different forms, there is shown in the drawings and will be described herein in detail, a specific embodiment with the understanding that the present disclosure is to be considered an exemplification of the principles of the invention, and is not intended to limit the invention to that as illustrated.

A carton 100 of the present invention is formed from a blank 102, which is typically formed from a cardboard material, and a blank 104, which is typically formed from a transparent plastic material and molded into shape.

The blank 102 is illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2. Blank 102 has an outer surface 106, as best illustrated in FIG. 2, and an inner surface 108, as best illustrated in FIG. 1. The blank 102 has a base panel 110 which is generally rectangular in configuration. Base panel 110 is bounded at a front side thereof by fold line 112. Base panel 110 is bounded at a back side thereof by fold line 114. Base panel 110 is bounded at a first side thereof by fold line 116. Base panel 110 is bounded at a second side thereof by fold line 118. Fold line 112 and fold line 114 are positioned opposite one another, and are generally parallel to one another, and fold line 116 and fold line 118 are positioned opposite one another, and are generally parallel to one another and generally perpendicular to fold lines 112, 114. Thus, the connection of fold lines 112, 116 forms a first corner 120 of the base panel 110; the connection of fold lines 114, 116 forms a second corner 122 of the base panel 110; the connection of fold lines 114, 118 forms a third corner 124 of the base panel 110; and the connection of fold lines 112, 118 forms a fourth corner 126 of the base panel 110.

The blank 102 includes a front panel 128 which is generally trapezoidal in configuration. Front panel 128 is bounded at a bottom side thereof by fold line 112. Front panel 128 is bounded at a top side thereof by edge 130. Front panel 128 is bounded at a first side thereof by fold line 132. Front panel 128 is bounded at a second side thereof by fold line 134. Fold line 112 and edge 130 are positioned opposite one another, and are positioned generally parallel to one another. Fold line 132 and fold line 134 are positioned opposite one another, but are preferably not positioned parallel to one another. As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, fold line 132 extends angularly downwardly from fold line 112 at the corner 120 to the edge 130, and fold line 134 extends upwardly from fold line 112 at the corner 126 to the edge 130. Thus, fold line 112 extends for a further distance than does edge 130.

The front panel 128 has an aperture 136 cut therethrough proximate to the edge 130 and generally equidistant between the fold lines 132, 134. The aperture 136 is generally configured to be of a size and shape such that a member (not shown) can extend therethrough such that the carton 100 can hang from the member. The aperture 136 is generally referred to in the industry as a hang hole. The purpose for the aperture 136 will be discussed further hereinbelow.

The blank 102 includes a back panel 138 which is generally trapezoidal in configuration. Back panel 138 is bounded at a bottom side thereof by fold line 114. Back panel 138 is bounded at a top side thereof by fold line 140. Back panel 138 is bounded at a first side thereof by fold line 142. Back panel 138 is bounded at a second side thereof by fold line 144. Fold line 114 and fold line 140 are positioned opposite one another, and a positioned generally parallel to one another. Fold line 142 and fold line 144 are positioned opposite one another, but are preferably not positioned parallel to one another. As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, fold line 142 extends angularly downwardly from fold line 114 at the corner 122 to fold line 140, and fold line 144 extends angularly upwardly from fold line 114 at the corner 124 to fold line 140. Thus, fold line 114 extends for a further distance than does fold line 140.

The back panel 138 has an aperture 146 cut therethrough proximate to fold line 140 and generally equidistant between the fold lines 142, 144. The aperture 146 is generally configured to be of a size and shape such that a member (not shown) can extend therethrough such that the carton 100 can hang from the member. The aperture 146 is sized and shaped generally identically to the aperture 136 on the front panel 128. The aperture 146 is generally referred to in the industry as a hang hole. The purpose for the aperture 146 will be discussed further hereinbelow.

The back panel 138 also has an aperture 148 cut therethrough between aperture 146 and fold line 114. The aperture 148 is generally trapezoidal in configuration, but with the corners being generally rounded or curved rather than straight. The back panel 138, though, has a tab portion 150 which extends generally into the aperture 148 such that the tab portion 150 defines first and second portions 148a, 148b which extend partially around the tab portion 150. The purpose for the aperture 148 will be discussed further hereinbelow.

The blank 102 includes a top panel 152 which is generally trapezoidal in configuration. Top panel 152 is bounded at a bottom side thereof by fold line 140. Top panel 152 is bounded at a first side thereof by edge 154, which is planar with fold line 142. Top panel 152 is bounded at a second side thereof by edge 156, which is planar with fold line 144. Top panel 152 is bounded at a top side thereof by edge 158. As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, edge 158 has a first portion 158a, a second portion 158b, and a third portion 158c. First portion 158a of edge 158 curves outwardly and downwardly from edge 154 to third portion 158c of edge 158. Second portion 158b of edge 158 curves outwardly and upwardly from edge 156 to third portion 158c of edge 158. The third portion 158c extends between the first and second portions 158a, 158b of the edge 158 and is generally parallel to fold line 140. A fold line 160 extends between the connection of edge 154 and the first portion 158a and the connection of edge 156 and the second portion 158b, such that fold line 160 is positioned between, and is generally parallel to, the third portion 158c of the edge 158 and the fold line 160.

The top panel 152 has an aperture 162 cut therethrough along fold line 160 and generally equidistant between the edges 154, 156. The aperture 162 is generally configured to be of a size and shape such that a member (not shown) can extend therethrough such that the carton 100 can hang from the member. The aperture 162 is sized and shaped generally identically to the apertures 136, 146 on the front panel 128 and the back panel 138, respectively. The aperture 162 is generally referred to in the industry as a hang hole. The purpose for the aperture 162 will be discussed further hereinbelow.

The blank 102 includes a first side panel 164 which is generally trapezoidal in configuration. First side panel 164 is bounded at a bottom side thereof by fold line 116. First side panel 164 is bounded at a top side thereof by edge 166. First side panel 164 is bounded at a first side thereof by fold line 168. First side panel 164 is bounded at a second side thereof by fold line 170. Fold line 116 and edge 166 are positioned opposite one another, and are positioned generally parallel to one another. Fold line 168 and fold line 170 are positioned opposite one another, but are preferably not positioned parallel to one another. As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, fold line 168 extends angularly upwardly and inwardly from fold line 116 at corner 120 to the edge 166, and fold line 170 extends angularly upwardly and inwardly from fold line 116 at the corner 122 to the edge 166. Thus, fold line 116 extends for a further distance than does edge 166.

The blank 102 includes a second side panel 172 which is generally trapezoidal in configuration, and which is generally identical to first side panel 164. Second side panel 172 is bounded at a bottom side thereof by fold line 118. Second side panel 172 is bounded at a top side thereof by edge 174. Second side panel 172 is bounded at a first side thereof by fold line 176. Second side panel 172 is bounded at a second side thereof by fold line 178. Fold line 118 and edge 174 are positioned opposite one another, and are positioned generally parallel to one another. Fold line 176 and fold line 178 are positioned opposite one another, but are preferably not positioned parallel to one another. As illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2, fold line 176 extends angularly downwardly and inwardly from fold line 118 at corner 126 to the edge 174, and fold line 178 extends downwardly and inwardly from fold line 118 at the corner 124 to the edge 174. Thus, fold line 118 extends for a further distance than does edge 174.

The blank 102 includes a first front intermediate panel 180. The first front intermediate panel 180 is bounded by the fold line 132, the fold line 168, and edges 182, 184, 186. Edge 182 extends from edge 166 and is planar with edge 166. Edge 184 extends from edge 130 and is planar with edge 130. Edge 186 connects edges 182, 184 together with edge 186 extending angularly downwardly and outwardly from edge 182 to edge 184. The first front intermediate panel 180 also has a fold line 188 which extends angularly upwardly and outwardly from the corner 120 to the connection of edges 182, 186. The fold line 188 separates the first front intermediate panel 180 into a first portion 180a and a second portion 180b. The first portion 180a is bounded by fold line 168, edge 182 and the fold line 188. The second portion 180b is bounded by fold line 132, fold line 188, edge 186 and edge 184.

The blank 102 includes a second front intermediate panel 190. The second front intermediate panel 190 is bounded by the fold line 134, the fold line 176, and edges 192, 194, 196. Edge 192 extends from edge 174 and is planar with edge 174. Edge 194 extends from edge 130 and is planar with edge 130. Edge 196 connects edges 192, 194 together with edge 196 extending angularly upwardly and outwardly from edge 192 to edge 194. The second front intermediate panel 190 also has a fold line 198 which extends angularly upwardly and outwardly from the corner 126 to the connection of edges 192, 196. The fold line 198 separates the second front intermediate panel 190 into a first portion 190a and a second portion 190b. The first portion 190a is bounded by fold line 176, edge 192 and the fold line 198. The second portion 190b is bounded by fold line 134, fold line 198, edge 196 and edge 194.

The blank 102 includes a first back intermediate panel 200. The first back intermediate panel 200 is bounded by the fold line 142, the fold line 170, and edges 202, 204, 206, 208. Edge 202 extends from edge 166 and is planar with edge 166, and further is generally parallel to fold line 142. Edge 204 extends from fold line 140 and is planar with fold line 140. Edge 206 extends angularly upwardly and inwardly from edge 204 to edge 208. Edge 208 connects edge 202 and edge 206 together. Edge 208 has a first portion 208a, a second portion 208b, a third portion 208c, a fourth portion 208d, and a fifth portion 208e. The first portion 208a extends angularly downwardly and outwardly from edge 202 to the second portion 208b, such that the first portion 208a is generally parallel to the fold line 170. The second portion 208b curves downwardly and outwardly from the first portion 208a to the third portion 208c. The third portion 208c extends angularly downwardly and outwardly from the second portion 208b to the fourth portion 208c, such that the third portion 208c is generally parallel to the fold line 142. The fourth portion 208d curves upwardly and outwardly from the third portion 208c to the fifth portion 208e. The fifth portion 208e extend upwardly from the fourth portion 208d to the edge 206, such that the fifth portion 208e is generally parallel to the edge 204.

The first back intermediate panel 200 also has a fold line 210 which extends angularly upwardly and outwardly from the corner 122 to the second portion 208b of the edge 208. The fold line 210 separates the first back intermediate panel 200 into a first portion 200a and a second portion 200b. The first portion 200a is bounded by fold line 170, edge 202, the first and second portions 208a, 208b of the edge 208, and the fold line 210. The second portion 200b is bounded by fold line 142, fold line 210, the second, third, fourth and fifth portions 208b, 208c, 208d, 208e of the edge 208, the edge 206 and the edge 204.

The blank 102 includes a second back intermediate panel 212. The second back intermediate panel 212 is bounded by the fold line 144, the fold line 178, and edges 214, 216, 218, 220. Edge 214 extends from edge 174 and is planar with edge 174, and further is generally parallel to fold line 144. Edge 216 extends from fold line 140 and is planar with fold line 140. Edge 218 extends angularly downwardly and inwardly from edge 216 to edge 220. Edge 220 connects edge 214 and edge 218 together. Edge 220 has a first portion 220a, a second portion 220b, a third portion 220c, a fourth portion 220d, and a fifth portion 220e. The first portion 220a extends angularly upwardly and outwardly from edge 214 to the second portion 220b, such that the first portion 220a is generally parallel to the fold line 178. The second portion 220b curves upwardly and outwardly from the first portion 220a to the third portion 220c. The third portion 220c extends angularly upwardly and outwardly from the second portion 220b to the fourth portion 220c, such that the third portion 220c is generally parallel to the fold line 144. The fourth portion 220d curves downwardly and outwardly from the third portion 220c to the fifth portion 220e. The fifth portion 220e extend downwardly from the fourth portion 220d to the edge 218, such that the fifth portion 220e is generally parallel to the edge 216.

The second back intermediate panel 212 also has a fold line 222 which extends angularly downwardly and outwardly from the corner 124 to the second portion 220b of the edge 220. The fold line 222 separates the second back intermediate panel 212 into a first portion 212a and a second portion 212b. The first portion 212a is bounded by fold line 178, edge 214, the first and second portions 220a, 220b of the edge 220, and the fold line 222. The second portion 212b is bounded by fold line 144, fold line 222, the second, third, fourth and fifth portions 220b, 220c, 220d, 220e of the edge 220, the edge 218 and the edge 216.

Attention is now directed to FIGS. 3 and 4 which illustrate the blank 104. Blank 104 has an outer surface 230, as best illustrated in FIG. 3, and an inner surface 232, as best illustrated in FIG. 4. The blank 104 has a base panel 234 which is generally rectangular in configuration. Base panel 234 is bounded at a front side thereof by a folding panel 236. Base panel 234 is bounded at a back side thereof by a folding panel 238. Base panel 234 is bounded at a first side thereof by edge 240. Base panel 234 is bounded at a second side thereof by edge 242. Folding panel 236 and folding panel 238 are positioned opposite one another, and are generally parallel to one another, and edge 240 and edge 242 are positioned opposite one another, and are generally parallel to one another and generally perpendicular to folding panels 236, 238. Thus, the connection of folding panel 236 and edge 240 forms a first corner 244 of the base panel 234; the connection of folding panel 236 and edge 242 forms a second corner 246 of the base panel 234; the connection of folding panel 238 and edge 242 forms a third corner 248 of the base panel 234; and the connection of folding panel 238 and edge 240 forms a fourth corner 250 of the base panel 234. The folding panel 236 extends along the length of the base panel 234 from edge 240 to edge 242. The folding panel 238 extends along the length of the base panel 234 from edge 240 to edge 242.

The base panel 234 has a first raised portion 252 proximate to edge 240 which extends between the folding panels 236, 238. The first raised portion 252 includes a first angled surface 254, which is a part of the inner surface 232, which extends angularly upwardly from the folding panel 236 toward the folding panel 238. The first raised portion 252 includes a second angled surface 256, which is part of the inner surface 232, which extends angularly upwardly from the folding panel 238 toward the folding panel 236. The first and second angled surfaces 254, 256 meet at 258 such that the first raised portion 252 appears to be generally triangular or pyramidal.

The base panel 234 has a second raised portion 260 proximate to edge 242 which extends between the folding panels 236, 238. The second raised portion 260 includes a first angled surface 262, which is a part of the inner surface 232, which extends angularly upwardly from the folding panel 236 toward the folding panel 238. The second raised portion 260 includes a second angled surface 264, which is part of the inner surface 232, which extends angularly upwardly from the folding panel 238 toward the folding panel 236. The first and second angled surfaces 262, 264 meet at 266 such that the second raised portion 260 appears to be generally triangular or pyramidal. The first and second raised portions 252, 260 are generally identical to one another and are positioned apart from one another on the base panel 234.

The blank 104 includes a front panel 268 which is generally trapezoidal in configuration. Front panel 268 is bounded at a bottom side thereof by the folding panel 236. Front panel 268 is bounded at a top side thereof by edge 270. Front panel 268 is bounded at a first side thereof by edge 272. Front panel 268 is bounded at a second side thereof by edge 274. Folding panel 236 and edge 270 are positioned opposite one another, and are positioned generally parallel to one another. Edges 272, 274 are positioned opposite one another, but are preferably not positioned parallel to one another. As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, edge 272 extends angularly upwardly and outwardly from folding panel 236 proximate to corner 244 to the edge 270, and edge 274 extends angularly downwardly and outwardly from folding panel 236 proximate to corner 246 to the edge 270. Thus, folding panel 236 extends for a further distance than does edge 270. The connection of edges 270, 272 is preferably rounded and the connection of edges 270, 274 is preferably rounded.

The front panel 268 includes a portion 276 which is raised off of the inner surface 232 thereof, and which is generally U-shaped such that the raised portion 276 has a base 278 and a pair of opposite opposing arms 280, 282. The base 278 is positioned proximate to, and extends along, the edge 270. The arm 280 is positioned proximate to, and generally extends along, the edge 272. The arm 282 is positioned proximate to, and generally extends along, the edge 274. The base 278 defines a first raised surface 284, which is part of the inner surface 232, which extends angularly upwardly from proximate the edge 270 toward the folding panel 236. The first raised surface 284 continues to extend along the arms 280, 282 and, for reference purposes, is illustrated as surfaces 284a, 284b of arms 280, 282 respectively. The first raised surfaces 284a, 284b extend to 286a, 286b, respectively. From 286a, 286b, the arms 280, 282 extend downwardly toward the folding panel 236 and, thus, define second raised surfaces 288a, 288b of arms 280, 282 respectively.

The inner surface 232 of the front panel 268 defines a recessed portion 290 which is generally bounded by the base 278, the arms 280, 282, and the folding panel 236, such that it appears that the recessed portion 290 protrudes from the outer surface 230 of the front panel 268.

The base 278 defines a recessed portion 292 proximate to the edge 270 generally equidistant between edges 272, 274. Within the recessed portion 292, an aperture 294 is cut therethrough. The aperture 294 is generally configured to be of a size and shape such that a member (not shown) can extend therethrough such that the carton 100 can hang from the member. The aperture 294 is generally referred to in the industry as a hang hole. The purpose for the aperture 294 will be discussed further hereinbelow.

The base 278 further defines a pocket 296 therein between the recessed portion 294 and the arm 280. The pocket 296 is generally square shaped and is recessed from the inner surface 232 such that the pocket 296 appears to protrude from the outer surface 230 of the blank 104.

The base 278 further defines a pocket 298 therein between the recessed portion 294 and the arm 282. The pocket 298 is generally square shaped and is recessed from the inner surface 232 such that the pocket 298 appears to protrude from the outer surface 230 of the blank 104.

The blank 104 includes a back panel 300 which is generally trapezoidal in configuration. Back panel 300 is bounded at a bottom side thereof by the folding panel 238. Back panel 300 is bounded at a top side thereof by edge 302. Back panel 300 is bounded at a first side thereof by edge 304. Back panel 300 is bounded at a second side thereof by edge 306. Folding panel 238 and edge 302 are positioned opposite one another, and are positioned generally parallel to one another. Edges 304, 306 are positioned opposite one another, but are preferably not positioned parallel to one another. As illustrated in FIGS. 3 and 4, edge 304 extends angularly upwardly and outwardly from folding panel 238 proximate to corner 250 to the edge 302, and edge 306 extends angularly downwardly and outwardly from folding panel 238 proximate to corner 248 to the edge 302. Thus, folding panel 238 extends for a further distance than does edge 302. The connection of edges 302, 304 is preferably rounded and the connection of edges 302, 306 is preferably rounded.

The back panel 300 includes a portion 308 which is raised off of the inner surface 232 thereof, and which is generally U-shaped such that the raised portion 308 has a base 310 and a pair of opposite opposing arms 312, 314. The base 310 is positioned proximate to, and extends along, the edge 302. The arm 312 is positioned proximate to, and generally extends along, the edge 304. The arm 314 is positioned proximate to, and generally extends along, the edge 306. The base 310 defines a first raised surface 316, which is part of the inner surface 232, which extends angularly upwardly from proximate the edge 302 toward the folding panel 238. The first raised surface 316 continues to extend along the arms 312, 314 and, for reference purposes, is illustrated as surfaces 316a, 316b of arms 312, 314 respectively. The first raised surfaces 316a, 316b extend to 318a, 318b, respectively. From 316a, 316b, the arms 312, 314 extend downwardly toward the folding panel 238 and, thus, define second raised surfaces 320a, 320b of arms 312, 314 respectively.

The inner surface 232 of the back panel 300 defines a first recessed portion 322 which is generally bounded by the base 310, the arms 312, 314, and the folding panel 238, such that it appears that the first recessed portion 322 protrudes from the outer surface 230 of the back panel 300.

The inner surface 232 of the back panel 300 further defines a second recessed portion 324 which is provided within the boundaries of the first recessed portion 322, such that it appears that the second recessed portion 324 protrudes and/or bulges from the outer surface 230 of the back panel 300.

The base 310 defines a recessed portion 326 proximate to the edge 302 generally equidistant between edges 304, 306. Within the recessed portion 326, an aperture 328 is cut therethrough. The aperture 328 is generally configured to be of a size and shape such that a member (not shown) can extend therethrough such that the carton 100 can hang from the member. The aperture 328 is generally referred to in the industry as a hang hole. The purpose for the aperture 328 will be discussed further hereinbelow.

The base 310 further defines a protrusion 330 therein between the recessed portion 326 and the arm 312. The protrusion 330 is generally circle shaped and protrudes from the inner surface 232 such that the protrusion 330 appears to be recessed from the outer surface 230 of the blank 104.

The base 310 further defines a protrusion 332 therein between the recessed portion 326 and the arm 314. The protrusion 332 is generally circle shaped and protrudes from the inner surface 232 such that the protrusion 332 appears to be recessed from the outer surface 230 of the blank 104.

Assembly of the blanks 102, 104 to form the carton 100 will now be discussed with reference to FIGS. 5-10. Assembly of the carton 100 begins with the folding of the blank 104. Blank 104 is folded as illustrated in FIG. 5 by folding the front panel 268 upwardly relative to the base panel 234 along the folding panel 236. Similarly, the back panel 300 is folded upwardly relative to the base panel 234 along the folding panel 238. Thus, the front and back panels 268, 300 are folded upwardly toward one another.

By folding the front panel 268 upwardly, the second raised surface 288a of arm 280 faces, and possibly contacts, the first angled surface 254 of the first raised portion 252 of the base panel 234, and the second raised surface 288b of arm 282 faces, and possibly contacts, the first angled surface 262 of the second raised portion 260 of the base panel 234. By folding the back panel 300 upwardly, the second raised surface 320a of arm 318 faces, and possibly contacts, the second angled surface 256 of the first raised portion 252 of the base panel 234, and the second raised surface 320b of arm 320 faces, and possibly contacts, the second angled surface 264 of the second raised portion 260 of the base panel 234.

The folding of the front and back panels 268, 300 also causes the first raised surface 284a of the arm 280 of the front panel 268 to face, and possibly contact, the first raised surface 316a of the arm 312 of the back panel 300. Likewise, the folding of the front and back panels 268, 300 also causes the first raised surface 284b of the arm 282 of the front panel 268 to face, and possibly contact, the first raised surface 316b of the arm 314 of the back panel 300.

The folding of the front and back panels 268, 300 also cause the base 278 of the front panel 268 to face, and possibly contact, the base 310 of the back panel 300. The apertures 284, 328 of the front and back panels 268, 300, respectively, also face one another. The protrusion 330 of the back panel 300 is positioned next to the pocket 296 of the front panel 268 and the protrusion 332 of the back panel 300 is positioned next to the pocket 298 of the front panel 268.

When the folding of the front and back panels 268, 300 as described hereinabove is performed, the recessed portion 290 of the front panel 268 is placed into communication with the recessed portions 322, 324 of the back panel 300 in order to provide a chamber 340 within the blank 104.

Prior to the folding of the front and back panels 268, 300, a member 342 (illustrated in FIGS. 6-10) is positioned within one of the recessed portions 290, 322, 324 of the front and back panels 268, 300 such that upon folding of the front and back panels 268, 300, the member 342 will be encapsulated, secured and protected within the chamber 340 and, because the blank 104 is formed of a transparent plastic material, the member 342 is visible within the chamber 340.

Once the member 342 is encapsulated within the chamber 340, the blank 104 can be locked together by forcing the protrusion 330 into the pocket 296 and by forcing the protrusion 332 into the pocket 298. By forcing the protrusions 330, 332 into the pockets 296, 298, respectively, the protrusions 330, 332 are secured or locked into the pockets 296, 298 by a friction fit such that the blank 104 will be held in the locked or secured position, as illustrated in FIG. 6, for example, until a counter force is applied to the front and back panels 268, 300 in order to overcome the friction fit of the protrusions 330, 332 within the pockets 296, 298 and, thus, providing access to the member 342 within the chamber 340.

After the protrusions 330, 332 of the back panel 300 are friction fitted into the pockets 296, 298 of the front panel 268, the folded blank 104 can then be encapsulated and secured within the blank 102. The folded blank 104 is then positioned on the blank 102 such that the outer surface 230 of the base panel 234 of the blank 104 is positioned against the inner surface 108 of the base panel 110 of the blank 110, as illustrated in FIG. 6, and such that the folding panel 236 of the blank 104 is positioned along the folding line 112 of the blank 102, the folding panel 238 of the blank 104 is positioned along the folding line 114 of the blank 102, the edge 240 is positioned along the folding line 116 of the blank 102, and the edge 242 is positioned along the folding line 118 of the blank 102.

Once the blank 104 has been folded and secured as discussed hereinabove, the blank 104 is generally in the form of a triangular prism with edges 240, 272, 304 generally forming a triangle and edges 242, 274, 306 generally forming a triangle.

As illustrated in FIG. 6, the blank 102 is folded upwardly along fold lines 142, 116, 132 such that the first side panel 164 of the blank 102 faces, and possibly contacts, the edges 272, 304 of the folded blank 104.

As illustrated in FIG. 6, the blank 102 is folded upwardly along fold lines 144, 118, 134 such that the second side panel 172 of the blank 102 faces, and possibly contacts, the edges 274, 306 of the folded blank 104.

As illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, the blank 102 is folded inwardly along fold lines 188, 198. The folding of the blank 102 along fold lines 188, 198 causes a number of things to occur.

The folding of the blank 102 along fold line 188 causes the inner surface 108 of the first portion 180a of the first front intermediate panel 180 to face, and possibly contact, the outer surface 230 of the front panel 268 of the blank 104 proximate to the edge 272 of the blank 104. The first portion 180a of the first front intermediate panel 180 is then generally parallel to the front panel 268 of the blank 104.

The folding of the blank 102 along fold line 198 causes the inner surface 108 of the first portion 190a of the second front intermediate panel 190 to face, and possibly contact, the outer surface 230 of the front panel 268 of the blank 104 proximate to the edge 274 of the blank 104. The first portion 190a of the second front intermediate panel 190 is then generally parallel to the front panel 268 of the blank 104.

The folding of the blank 102 along fold line 188 also causes the blank 102 to be further folded along fold line 132 such that the outer surface 106 of the second portion 180b of the first front intermediate panel 180 to face, and possibly contact, both the outer surface 106 of the first portion 180a of the first front intermediate panel 180 and the outer surface 230 of the front panel 268 of the blank 104 proximate to the edge 272 of the blank 104. The second portion 180b of the first front intermediate panel 180 is then generally parallel to the first portion 180a of the first front intermediate panel 180 and to the front panel 268 of the blank 104. The edge 184 of the second portion 180b of the first front intermediate panel 180 is positioned proximate to the edge 270 of the blank 104.

The folding of the blank 102 along fold line 198 also causes the blank 102 to be further folded along fold line 134 such that the outer surface 106 of the second portion 190b of the second front intermediate panel 190 to face, and possibly contact, both the outer surface 106 of the first portion 190a of the second front intermediate panel 190 and the outer surface 230 of the front panel 268 of the blank 104 proximate to the edge 274 of the blank 104. The second portion 190b of the second front intermediate panel 190 is then generally parallel to the first portion 190a of the second front intermediate panel 190 and to the front panel 268 of the blank 104. The edge 194 of the second portion 190b of the second front intermediate panel 190 is positioned proximate to the edge 270 of the blank 104.

The folding of the blank 102 along the fold lines 188, 198 also causes the front panel 128 to be folded upwardly along fold line 112 such that the inner surface 108 of the front panel 128 faces, and possibly contacts, the inner surface 108 of the second portions 180b, 190b of the first and second front intermediate panels 180, 190 and the outer surface 230 of the front panel 268 of the blank 104. The front panel 128 is then generally parallel to the second portions 180b, 190b of the first and second front intermediate panels 180, 190. The edge 130 of the front panel 128 is positioned proximate to the edges 184, 194 of the second portions 180b, 190b of the first and second front intermediate panels 180, 190 and proximate to the edge 270 of the blank 104. The aperture 136 of the front panel 128 is placed into communication with the aperture 294 of the front panel 268 and, thus, the aperture 328 of the back panel 300.

As illustrated in FIGS. 7 and 8, the blank 102 is folded inwardly along fold lines 210, 222. The folding of the blank 102 along fold lines 210, 222 causes a number of things to occur.

The folding of the blank 102 along fold line 210 causes the inner surface 108 of the first portion 200a of the first back intermediate panel 200 to face, and possibly contact, the outer surface 230 of the back panel 300 of the blank 104 proximate to the edge 304 of the blank 104. The first portion 200a of the first back intermediate panel 200 preferably does not come into contact with the second recessed portion 324 of the back panel 300 of the blank 104. The first portion 200a of the first back intermediate panel 200 is then generally parallel to the back panel 300 of the blank 104.

The folding of the blank 102 along fold line 222 causes the inner surface 108 of the first portion 212a of the second back intermediate panel 212 to face, and possibly contact, the outer surface 230 of the back panel 300 of the blank 104 proximate to the edge 306 of the blank 104. The first portion 212a of the second back intermediate panel 212 preferably does not come into contact with the second recessed portion 324 of the back panel 300 of the blank 104. The first portion 212a of the second back intermediate panel 212 is then generally parallel to the back panel 300 of the blank 104.

The folding of the blank 102 along fold line 210 also causes the blank 102 to be further folded along fold line 142 such that the outer surface 106 of the second portion 200b of the first back intermediate panel 200 to face, and possibly contact, both the outer surface 106 of the first portion 200a of the first back intermediate panel 200 and the outer surface 230 of the back panel 300 of the blank 104 proximate to the edge 304 of the blank 104. The second portion 200b of the first back intermediate panel 200 preferably does not come into contact with the second recessed portion 324 of the back panel 300 of the blank 104, but the edge 208 of the blank 102 is configured such that it generally is positioned around the second recessed portion 324 of the back panel 300 of the blank 104. The second portion 200b of the first back intermediate panel 200 is then generally parallel to the first portion 200a of the first back intermediate panel 200 and to the back panel 300 of the blank 104. The edge 204 of the second portion 200b of the first back intermediate panel 200 is positioned proximate to the edge 302 of the blank 104.

The folding of the blank 102 along fold line 210 also causes the blank 102 to be further folded along fold line 144 such that the outer surface 106 of the second portion 212b of the second back intermediate panel 212 to face, and possibly contact, both the outer surface 106 of the first portion 212a of the second back intermediate panel 212 and the outer surface 230 of the back panel 300 of the blank 104 proximate to the edge 306 of the blank 104. The second portion 212b of the second back intermediate panel 212 preferably does not come into contact with the second recessed portion 324 of the back panel 300 of the blank 104, but the edge 220 of the blank 102 is configured such that it generally is positioned around the second recessed portion 324 of the back panel 300 of the blank 104. The second portion 212b of the second back intermediate panel 212 is then generally parallel to the first portion 212a of the second back intermediate panel 212 and to the back panel 300 of the blank 104. The edge 216 of the second portion 212b of the second back intermediate panel 212 is positioned proximate to the edge 302 of the blank 104.

The folding of the blank 102 along the fold lines 210, 222 also causes the back panel 138 to be folded upwardly along fold line 114 such that the inner surface 108 of the back panel 138 faces, and possibly contacts, the inner surface 108 of the second portions 200b, 212b of the first and second back intermediate panels 200, 212 and the outer surface 230 of the back panel 300 of the blank 104. The back panel 138 is then generally parallel to the second portions 200b, 212b of the first and second back intermediate panels 200, 212. The fold line 140 of the back panel 138 is positioned proximate to the edges 204, 216 of the second portions 200b, 212b of the first and second back intermediate panels 200, 212 and proximate to the edge 302 of the blank 104. The aperture 146 of the back panel 138 is placed into communication with the aperture 328 of the back panel 300 and, thus, the aperture 294 of the front panel 268.

When the back panel 138 of the blank 102 is folded, the aperture 148 of the back panel 138 is configured such that the second recessed portion 324 of the back panel 300 of the blank 100 protrudes through the aperture 148 of the back panel 138 of the blank 102. The first and second portions 148a, 148b of the aperture 148 are provided to allow the second recessed portion 324 of the back panel 300 to protrude through the aperture 148 and the tab portion 150 of the back panel 138 is positioned against, and can flex against, the second recessed portion 324 of the back panel 300.

The blank 102 is then folded along fold line 140 such that the top panel 152 of the blank 102 is inserted between the second portion 180b of the first front intermediate panel 180 of the blank 102 and the front panel 128 of the blank 102, and between the second portion 190b of the second front intermediate panel 190 of the blank 102 and the front panel 128 of the blank 102. The insertion of the top panel 152 is assisted by folding the top panel along the fold line 160 and the third portion 158c of the edge 158 is first inserted between the edges 184, 194 of the second portions 180b, 190b of the first and second front intermediate panels 180, 190 and the edge 130 of the front panel 128. Upon the top panel 152 being fully inserted, the aperture 162 of the top panel 152 is positioned between the aperture 136 of the front panel 128 of the blank 102 and the aperture 294 of the front panel 268 of the blank 104, such that the apertures 136, 162, 294, 328, 146 are all in communication with one another. The insertion of the top panel 152 secures the blank 102 to itself by a friction fit.

If desired, an adhesive (not shown) could be used to secure the outer surface 106 of the top panel 152 to the inner surface 108 of the front panel 128 to further secure the blank 102 to itself, in addition to the friction fit.

Once the blank 102 has been folded and secured as discussed hereinabove, the blank 102 is generally in the form of a triangular prism, which encapsulates and secures therein the folded blank 104 which is also generally in the form of a triangular prism, with fold lines 116, 132, 142 generally forming a triangle and fold lines 118, 134, 144 generally forming a triangle. Thus, the carton 100, as illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10, is generally in the form of a triangular prism.

The folding of the blanks 102, 104 thus forms the carton 100 illustrated in FIGS. 9 and 10 which is utilized for packaging goods, such as the member 342. The carton 100 has the blank 102, which is preferably formed of a cardboard material, wrapped around the blank 104, which is preferably formed of a clear or transparent plastic material, such that a front side 344 of the carton 100 (which is the outer surface 106 of the front panel 128 of the blank 102) may be dedicated to full, stylish graphics, and such that on a back side 346 of the carton 100 (which is the outer surface 106 of the back panel 138 of the blank 102 and the outer surface 230 of the second recessed portion 324 of the back panel 300 of the blank 104), the second recessed portion 324 of the back panel 300 of the blank 104 protrudes or bulges out of the aperture 148 of the back panel 138 of the blank 102 in order to display the goods, such as the member 342, within the blank 104. The blank 102 of the carton 100 thus generally forms an outer portion of the carton 100 and the blank 104 of the carton 100 thus generally forms an inner portion of the carton 100.

The carton 100 thus is configured to provide substantial information regarding the packaged goods, such as the member 342, on the outer surface 106 of the blank 102. The carton 100 further is configured to protect the packaged goods, such as the member 342, as the member 342 is secured within the folded blank 104 which, in turn, is secured within the folded blank 102. The carton 100 further is configured such that a consumer can view the packaged goods, such as the member 342, which are secured within the folded blank 104 because of the aperture 148 of the blank 102 and because of the blank 104 being formed of a clear or transparent plastic material. The carton 100 also lends itself to be opened with ease by a consumer once the carton 100 with the packaged goods therein has been purchased, but is not easily opened by a consumer at a store where the carton 100 with the packaged goods is on display and on sale, as there are a few steps that would need to be taken in order to access the packaged goods within the carton 100. Finally, the carton 100 is configured such that it can easily be hung from a hang hook in a store as the hang hook would extend through the apertures 146, 328, 294, 162, 136 of the carton 100.

It should be noted that the configuration of the blanks 102, 104 need not be identical to that as described hereinabove as the blanks 102, 104 can be configured in other manners in order to achieve the objects of the invention. The blanks 102, 104 need only be configured such that the blank 104 is capable of effectively encapsulating and securing goods therein, such as the member 342, such that the goods are protected from damage and such that the blank 102 may then encapsulate and secure the blank 104 therein in such a manner that the goods are still visible through an opening or aperture provided in the blank 102.

While a preferred embodiment of the invention is shown and described, it is envisioned that those skilled in the art may devise various modifications without departing from the spirit and scope of the foregoing description.

Claims

1. A carton for packaging goods, said carton comprising:

an inner portion formed of a transparent material, said inner portion being configured to encapsulate and secure the goods therein; and

an outer portion formed of a non-transparent material, said outer portion being wrapped generally around said inner portion in order to secure said inner portion within said outer portion, said outer portion having at least one aperture therethrough such that said inner portion, and thus the goods packaged within said inner portion, are visible through said at least one aperture of said outer portion.

2. A carton as defined in claim 1, wherein said transparent material of said inner portion is plastic.

3. A carton as defined in claim 1, wherein said non-transparent material of said outer portion is designed to have graphics printed thereon.

4. A carton as defined in claim 3, wherein said non-transparent material of said outer portion is cardboard.

5. A carton as defined in claim 1, wherein said inner portion and said outer portion each have at least one aperture provided therethrough which are in communication with one another, said at least one apertures of said inner and outer portions being sized and configured to receive a member therethrough such that said carton can be hung from the member.

6. A carton as defined in claim 1, wherein said inner and outer portions are generally formed in the shape of triangular prisms such that said carton is generally formed in the shape of a triangular prism.

7. A carton as defined in claim 1, wherein said inner and outer portions are formed from blanks.

8. A carton as defined in claim 7, wherein said blank from which said inner portion is formed includes a base panel, a front panel foldingly attached at a lower end thereof to said base panel, a back panel foldingly attached at a lower end thereof to said base panel, and means for securing an upper end of said front panel to an upper end of said back panel.

9. A carton as defined in claim 8, wherein said back panel of said inner portion has a portion thereof which bulges outwardly through said at least one aperture of said outer portion.

10. A carton as defined in claim 8, wherein said securing means includes at least one protrusion formed at said upper end of said back panel and at least one pocket formed at said upper end of said front panel, said at least one protrusion and said at least one pocket being configured such that said at least one protrusion can be inserted into said at least one pocket in order to secure same together by a friction fit.

11. A carton as defined in claim 8, wherein said blank from which said outer portion is formed includes a generally rectangular base panel having first, second, third and fourth sides, a front panel foldingly attached at a lower end thereof to said first side of said base panel, and a back panel foldingly attached at a lower end thereof to said third side of said base panel, said at least one aperture of said outer portion being formed through said back panel of said outer portion.

12. A carton as defined in claim 11, wherein said blank from which said outer portion is formed further includes first and second side panels, said first side panel being foldingly attached at a lower end thereof to said second side of said base panel such that said first side panel is configured to generally extend from said front panel of said inner portion to said back panel of said inner portion, said second side panel being foldingly attached at a lower end thereof to said fourth side of said base panel such that said second side panel is configured to generally extend from said front panel of said inner portion to said back panel of said inner portion.

13. A carton as defined in claim 12, wherein said blank from which said outer portion is formed further includes first and second front intermediate panels, said first front intermediate panel being foldingly attached to said front panel and to said first side panel such that said first front intermediate panel is configured to be positioned between said front panel of said outer portion and said front panel of said inner portion, said second front intermediate panel being foldingly attached to said front panel and to said second side panel such that said second front intermediate panel is configured to be positioned between said front panel of said outer portion and said front panel of said inner portion.

14. A carton as defined in claim 13, wherein said first front intermediate panel has a fold line which divides said first front intermediate panel into first and second portions such that when said first front intermediate panel is folded along said fold line, said first portion of said first front intermediate panel is configured to be positioned between said front panel of said inner portion and said second portion of said first front intermediate panel, and wherein said second front intermediate panel has a fold line which divides said second front intermediate panel into first and second portions such that when said second front intermediate panel is folded along said fold line, said first portion of said second front intermediate panel is configured to be positioned between said front panel of said inner portion and said second portion of said second front intermediate panel.

15. A carton as defined in claim 14, wherein said blank from which said outer portion is formed further includes a top panel which is foldingly attached to said upper end of said back panel such that said top panel is configured to be positioned between said front panel of said outer portion and said second portions of said first and second front intermediate panels.

16. A carton as defined in claim 13, wherein said blank from which said outer portion is formed further includes first and second back intermediate panels, said first back intermediate panel being foldingly attached to said back panel and to said first side panel such that said first back intermediate panel is configured to be positioned between said back panel of said outer portion and said back panel of said inner portion, said second back intermediate panel being foldingly attached to said back panel and to said second side panel such that said second back intermediate panel is configured to be positioned between said back panel of said outer portion and said back panel of said inner portion.

17. A carton as defined in claim 16, wherein said first back intermediate panel has a fold line which divides said first back intermediate panel into first and second portions such that when said first back intermediate panel is folded, said first portion of said first back intermediate panel is configured to be positioned between said back panel of said inner portion and said second portion of said first back intermediate panel, and wherein said second back intermediate panel has a fold line which divides said second back intermediate panel into first and second portions such that when said second back intermediate panel is folded, said first portion of said second back intermediate panel is configured to be positioned between said back panel of said inner portion and said second portion of said second back intermediate panel.

18. A carton for packaging goods comprising:

transparent means for encapsulating the goods therein; and

non-transparent means for wrapping said transparent encapsulating means therein, said non-transparent wrapping means having an aperture therethrough such that at least a portion of said transparent encapsulating means, and thus the goods, are visible through said aperture of said non-transparent wrapping means.

19. A carton as defined in claim 18, wherein said transparent encapsulating means is a blank formed from plastic.

20. A carton as defined in claim 18, wherein said non-transparent wrapping means is a blank formed from cardboard.

21. A method of packaging goods comprising the steps of:

a) providing a first blank formed from a transparent material, said first blank including a base panel, a front panel attached at a lower end thereof to said base panel, and a back panel attached at a lower end thereof to said base panel;

b) folding said front and back panels of said first blank upwardly relatively to said base panel;

c) inserting the goods between said front, back and base panels of said first blank;

d) securing said front and back panels together at upper ends thereof in order to secure the goods within said first blank;

e) providing a second blank formed from a non-transparent material, said second blank including a base panel, a front panel attached at a lower end thereof to said base panel of said second blank, a back panel attached at a lower end thereof to said base panel of said second blank, a top panel attached to an upper end of said back panel, said back panel having an aperture provided therethrough;

f) positioning said first blank on said second blank such that said base panel of said first blank is positioned on said base panel of said second blank;

g) folding said front and back panels of said second blank upwardly relative to said base panel of said second blank such that said front panel of said second blank faces said front panel of said first blank and such that said back panel of said second blank faces said back panel of said first blank, said aperture provided through said back panel of said second blank providing visibility to the goods secured within said first blank; and

h) folding said top panel downwardly relative to said back panel of said second blank such that said top panel is positioned between said front panel of said first blank and said front panel of said second blank.