Mailable greeting article

Abstract

A mailable greeting article comprises a body having a top panel and a plurality of surfaces defining a cavity. A removable portion is formed on the top panel to provide access to the cavity. Additionally, a cover is movably attached to the body and extends from one of the surfaces. A bag is attached to the cover and has a compartment accessible through the cover, wherein the bag is movable between a folded and an unfolded configuration. A hook extends from the cover and has a cantilevered portion defining a slot. The hook is deformable and configured to support the body. At least one of the surfaces is configured to display a greeting thereon, and another of the surfaces defines a postage area and an address area thereon for mailing the article.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTIONS

1. Field of the Inventions

The present inventions are directed to tissue dispensers, and more particularly, tissue boxes that can be mailed, hung, and/or include trash bags.

2. Description of the Related Art

Greeting cards come in various shapes and designs and are usually mailed inside envelopes, though designs exist which can be mailed without the use of an envelope, as disclosed in U.S. Patent Publication No. 2003-0098581, published May 29, 2003.

Likewise, tissue containers are well known and come in a variety of colors and sizes, as well as shapes. Typically, a tissue container has an opening in an upper portion thereof, through which tissues can be withdrawn from the container. Although the containers are sold in various sizes, the container must typically rest on a flat surface.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTIONS

An aspect of at least one of embodiments disclosed herein includes the realization that using a tray pre-filled with delicate materials before insertion into another box can solve difficulties associated with manufacturing small boxes filled with delicate materials. For example, where it is desired to manufacture a relatively thin tissue box; i.e., tissue boxes that are less than about two inches thick, a difficulty arises in inserting the tissues into the box. Such a manufacturing process can include the step of forming a box with an open longitudinal end, and inserting delicate materials, such as facial tissues, into the open end of the box. It is difficult for the commercially available manufacturing machines to insert tissues as such. This is because the tissues and other similar delicate materials are light and easily disturbed by air movement. As such, it is difficult to keep such material together during a step of inserting the material into the box through the open longitudinal end. By placing such delicate materials into a tray, the pre-filled tray can then be easily inserted into small box with a machine.

Such a tray can also provide further advantages. For example, such a tray can provide additional strength to the box, thereby preventing damage to the box and its contents during distribution or mailing.

Thus, in accordance with an embodiment, a tissue box for containing tissues can include a box member configured to enclose a plurality of tissues on all sides. The box can have an opening on a side thereof for allowing a user to extract a tissue from an interior of the box. Additionally, the box can include a tray member disposed inside the box, wherein the plurality of tissues are disposed in the tray.

In accordance with another embodiment, a method for loading an article with linear material is provided comprising providing a body having a top panel and a plurality of surfaces defining a cavity, the cavity accessible through an open end of the body. The method also comprises providing a tray pre-filled with linear material and automatically inserting the tray into the cavity of the body through said open end. The method further comprises closing said open end to seal the cavity.

Another aspect of at least one of embodiments disclosed herein includes the realization that greeting articles, such as greeting cards, that include delicate items such as facial tissues, handkerchiefs, napkins, etc., can benefit from having a cover over the aperture through which the delicate materials can be removed. For example, during mailing, a greeting card is exposed to dusts and other particulates that may enter the interior of the greeting article and contaminate the delicate materials disposed therein. Where those delicate materials a facial tissues, the contaminates might cause irritation when the tissues are sued by a user.

Thus, in accordance with one embodiment, a mailable greeting article comprises a body having a top panel and a plurality of surfaces defining a cavity. A removable portion is formed on the top panel to provide access to the cavity, and a cover is movably attached to the body of the article. At least one of the surfaces is configured to display a greeting thereon, and another of the surfaces defines a postage area and an address area thereon for mailing.

Another aspect of at least one of the embodiments disclosed herein includes the recognition that a mailable tissue box can be made sufficiently large to include a significant number of tissues and still fit in standard publicly accessible mailboxes around the world. More specifically, it has been found that the height of standard publicly accessible mail slots in the United States and many other countries is often limited to about 1¾ inches. Further, by providing the mailable tissue box with a thickness of at least ½ inch, the tissue box can be provided with at least about 15-20 tissues. Thus, if the thickness of the mailable tissue box is between about ½ and 1¾ inches, then it can hold about 15-100 tissues (depending on the type and size of the tissues) yet be easily mailable from publicly accessible mail slots around the world. Thus, in some embodiments, a tissue box is provided with a thickness of about ½ and 1¾ inches.

By constructing the box to have a thickness of at least about ½″ provides another advantage. For example, if the thickness of a tissue container is less than about ½″, such as thicknesses in the range of about one-eight to about one-quarter of inch, it is substantially more difficult to construct the box out of folded cardboard; the most widely used and economical material for such an application. This is due to limitations of the currently available manufacturing machines used for folding cardboard into boxes having discreet side, top and bottom panels. Thus, a tissue box having a thickness in the range of about one-eight to about one-quarter of inch is practicable in a more two-dimensional configuration, i.e., folded into an envelope-type shape. However, the envelope configuration creates other drawbacks, for example, the outer edges of the envelope exert more pressure on the tissues contained therein than the central portions of the envelope. Thus, the more tissues are contained in such an envelope, the more difficult it is to withdraw the tissues therefrom.

In accordance with another embodiment, a mailable greeting article is provided comprising a body having a top panel and a plurality of surfaces defining a cavity. Additionally, the article comprises a removable portion formed on said top panel to provide access to the cavity. A hook extends from the body of the article and has a cantilevered portion defining a slot. The hook is deformable and configured to support the body.

In accordance with yet another embodiment, a mailable greeting article is provided comprising a body having a top panel on a plurality of surfaces defining a cavity. The article also comprises a removable portion formed on said top panel to provide access to the cavity and a cover movably attached to the body and extending from one of the surfaces. A bag is attached to the cover and has a compartment accessible through the cover, wherein the bag is movable between a folded and an unfolded configuration.

In accordance with still another embodiment, a tissue box, comprises a body having a top panel and a plurality of surfaces defining a cavity. A plurality of tissues is disposed in the cavity. An aperture is formed on the top panel to provide access to the tissues in the cavity. A bag is attached to the body and is configured to be moveable between a folded and an unfolded configuration.

In accordance with a further embodiment, a mailable greeting article is provided comprising a body having a top panel and a plurality of surfaces defining a cavity and a removable portion formed on said top panel to provide access to the cavity. The article also comprises a cover movably attached to the body and extending from one of the surfaces. A bag is attached to the cover and has a compartment accessible through the cover, wherein the bag is movable between a folded and an unfolded configuration. A hook extends from the cover and has a cantilevered portion defining a slot. The hook is deformable and configured to support the body. At least one of the surfaces is configured to display a greeting thereon, and another of the surfaces defines a postage area and an address area thereon for mailing.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a top plan view of a frame for a tissue box, in accordance with an embodiment, in an unfolded state.

FIG. 2 is a top plan view of a modification of the frame illustrated in FIG. 1, in an unfolded state.

FIG. 3 is a top, front and right side perspective view of a tissue box shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, in an assembled configuration.

FIG. 4 is a front and top perspective view of the tissue box illustrated in FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is a front and bottom perspective view of the tissue box illustrated in FIG. 3.

FIG. 6 is a top and front perspective view of the tissue box shown in FIG. 4, illustrating the loading of delicate material into the tissue box.

FIG. 7 is a top plan view of a frame for a tissue box, in accordance with another embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a top, front and side perspective view of the tissue box shown in FIG. 7 in an assembled configuration.

FIG. 9 is a top, front and side perspective view of a modification of the tissue box in accordance with the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a schematic view of another embodiment of a tissue box.

FIG. 11 is a top, front and side perspective view of a modification of the tissue box illustrated in FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 is a side view of the tissue box illustrated in FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is a top, side and front view of a modification of the tissue box illustrated in FIG. 11, and having a hook.

FIG. 14 is a side elevational view of the tissue box illustrated in FIG. 13.

FIG. 15 is a top, front and left side view of yet another modification of the tissue box illustrated in FIG. 11.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

In the following detailed description, terms of orientation such as “top,” “bottom,” “left,” “right,” “front,” “rear,” and “end” are used here to simplify the description of the context of the illustrated embodiments. Likewise, terms of sequence, such as “first” and “second,” are used to simplify the description of the illustrated embodiments. Because other orientations and sequences are possible, however, the present invention should not be limited to the illustrated orientation. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that other orientations of the various components described above are possible.

FIGS. 1-6 illustrate a tissue box 100. The various tissue boxes and greeting cards disclosed herein are described in the context of containers for storing facial tissues because they have particular utility in this context However, the boxes and greeting cards disclosed herein can also be used for containing any other type of material, including but without limitation, delicate materials, handkerchiefs, napkins, and the like.

With reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, the box 100 can include a frame 2. The frame 2 can be constructed from various materials, including but without limitation, paper, cardboard, corrugated cardboard, plastic, and/or appropriate like materials. The chosen material for constructing the frame 2 can be any substantially rigid but foldable material. It will be appreciated that, although denominated as rigid, the chosen material would preferably have a certain amount of flexibility.

As shown in FIG. 1, the frame 2 has multiple fold lines 12a-e, 14a-d, 16a-d, 18a-f which define various sections of the frame 2, as discussed further below. The fold lines 12a-e, 14a-d, 16a-d, and 18a-f can be formed as perforations in the frame 2, i.e., broken cut lines passing partially or completely through the material forming the frame. In another embodiment, the fold lines 12a-e, 14a-d, 16a-d, 18a-f can be crushed portions of the material forming the frame 2. Of course, depending on the material used to construct the frame 2, the fold lines 12a-e, 14a-d, 16a-d, 18a-f can also be formed as mechanical hinges, thinned portions of the frame 2, or any other appropriate mechanical connection, which would allow various portions of the frame 2 to be folded or rotated with respect to each other.

The frame 2 preferably has a top panel 20 defined by the fold lines 12a-b, 14a-b, wherein the top panel 20 has a first length L1 and a first width W1. Preferably, the top panel 20 has a generally rectangular shape. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the top panel 20 can have other suitable shapes, such as square, polygonal, round, oval, etc.

The top panel 20 preferably has a removable portion 22 formed thereon, wherein the removable portion 22 is defined by a boundary line 24. In one preferred embodiment, the boundary line 24 is scored to facilitate the removal of the removable portion 22 from the top panel 20.

The top panel 20 also preferably defines a flap 26 along an edge 26a proximal the fold line 12. The edge 26a can be cut using, for example, scissors to allow the flap 26 to move relative to the top panel 20 and define an aperture 26b (see FIG. 3) through the top panel 20. In one embodiment, the aperture 26b is a rectangular through hole in the top pane. 20.

The frame 2 also preferably has a bottom panel 30 defined by fold lines 12c-d, 14c-d, wherein the bottom panel 30 has a second length L2 and a second width W2. Preferably, the second length L2 and second width W2 are equal to the first length L1 and first width W1, respectively, of the top panel 20, so that the top and bottom panels 20, 30 have the same shape. The bottom panel 30 preferably connects to the top panel 20, as further discussed below.

The frame 2 also preferably has a foldable cover portion 40. The foldable cover portion can be formed in any suitable manner, and from a single or multiple pieces. Additionally, the cover portion 40 can be shaped complimentary to the frame portion 2. For example, as noted above with respect to the shape of the frame portion 2, the cover portion can have any shape, such as, for example, but without limitation, rectangular, square; polygonal, round, oval, etc. Further, the cover portion 40 can be shaped to resemble other items such as a piano, a piano lid, a pair of lips, a laptop computer lid, etc.

In the illustrated embodiment, the cover portion 40 includes a first panel 42 and a second panel 44, first and second panels 42, 44 joined at a fold line 19. In one embodiment, the fold line 19 is scored for the optional removal of the second panel 44. The first panel 42 preferably has a third length L3 and a third width W3. Likewise, the second panel 44 preferably has a fourth length L4 and a fourth width W4. Preferably, the third and fourth lengths L3, L4 are equal to each other, and the third and fourth widths W3, W4 are equal to each other. Moreover, the third and fourth widths W3, W4 are preferably equal to the first width W1. In one embodiment, the third and fourth lengths L3, L4 can be equal to the first length L1. In another embodiment, the third and fourth lengths L3, L4 can be shorter than the first length L1.

As illustrated in FIG. 1, a tab 46, which is defined by a boundary line 48, is formed on the second panel 44 adjacent the fold line 19. The boundary line 48 can be cut with, for example, scissors to allow the tab 46 to move relative to the second panel 44, while remaining attached to the first panel 42.

The bottom panel 30 connects to the top panel 20 via a front side panel 50, wherein the front side panel 50 is defined by fold lines 12b-c, 16a-b. The front side panel 50 preferably has a width along the fold lines 12b-c equal to the first width W1 of the top panel 20. Additionally, the front side panel 50 preferably has a length L5 along the fold lines 16a-b, which defines a thickness t′ of the tissue box 100 once it is assembled. In a preferred embodiment, the length L5 of the front side panel 50 is in the range of between about 0.5 inch and about 1¾ inches. In another embodiment, the length L5 is between about ¾ inch and about 1½ inches. In still another embodiment, the length L5 is no more than about one inch.

Similarly, as shown in FIG. 1, the foldable cover portion 40 connects to the bottom panel 30 via a rear side panel 52 defined by fold lines 12d-e, 16c-d. The rear side panel 52 has a width along the fold line 12d-e, which is preferably equal to the second width W2 of the bottom panel 30. Additionally, the rear side panel 52 has a length L6 along the fold line 16. Preferably, the length L6 of the rear side panel 52 is equal to the length L5 of the front side panel, which defines the thickness t′.

The frame 2 also preferably has a first left side panel 60 and a first right side panel 70 attached to the top panel 20 along the fold lines 14a, 14b, respectively. Preferably, the first left and right side panels 60, 70 have a length equal to the first length L1 of the top panel 20. Additionally, the first left and right side panels 60, 70 preferably have a width equal to the thickness t′.

The first left and right side panels 60, 70 attach to a left end 50a and a right end 50b of the front side panel 50, respectively, via fold lines 18a, 18c. In the illustrated embodiment, the left and right ends 50a, 50b of the front side panel 50 preferably have a length equal to the length L5 of the front side panel 50, and a width equal to the width of the first left and right side panels 60, 70, respectively. In some embodiments, the fold line 18a connecting the first left side panel 60 to the left end 50a can be cut, for example, with the use of scissors, to allow the first left side panel 60 to move freely relative to the left end 50a of the front side panel 50. Similarly, the fold line 18c connecting the first right side panel 70 to the right end 50b of the front side panel 50 can be cut to allow the first right side panel 70 to move freely relative to the right end 50b of the front side panel 50. However, as discussed above, the fold lines 18a, c can also be scored to facilitate the detachment of the first side panels 60, 70 from the left and right ends 50a, 50b of the front side panel 50, respectively.

As shown in FIG. 1, the frame 2 also has a second left side panel 62 and a second right side panel 72 attached to the bottom panel 30 along the fold lines 18e, 18f, respectively, and to the top panel 20 along fold lines 18b, 18d, respectively. Preferably, the length of the second left and right side panels 62, 72 is equal to the length L2 of the bottom panel 30. Likewise, the width of the second left and right side panels 62, 72 is preferably equal to the length L6 of the rear side panel 52.

The second left and right side panels 62, 72 preferably connect to a left end 52a and a right end 52b of the rear side panel 52, via fold lines 18e, 18f. In the illustrated embodiment, the left and right ends 52a, 52b of the rear side panel 52 preferably have a length equal to the length L6 of the rear side panel 52, and a width equal to the width of the second left and right side panels 62, 72, respectively. In a preferred embodiment, the fold line 18e connecting the second left side panel 62 to the left end 52a can be cut, for example, with the use of scissors, to allow the second left side panel 62 to move freely relative to the left end 52a of the rear side panel 50. Similarly, the fold line 18f connecting the second right side panel 72 to the right end 52b of the rear side panel 52 can be cut to allow the second right side panel 72 to move freely relative to the right end 52b of the rear side panel 52.

The frame 2 also has a connecting side panel 80 attached to the top panel 20 along the fold line 12a, as shown in FIG. 1. The connecting side panel 80 preferably has a width equal to the width W1 of the top panel 20. Additionally, the connecting side panel 80 preferably has a length L7 equal to the length L6 of the rear side panel 52. In another embodiment, the length L7 of the connecting side panel 80 is shorter than the length L6 of the rear side panel 52. In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting side panel 80 has an edge 82 with tapered ends 84. In another embodiment, the edge 82 can have other configurations, such as curved or square.

As discussed above, the frame 2 is preferably foldable along the fold lines 12a-e, 14a-d, 16a-d, and 19, in order to assemble the tissue box 100, as shown in FIGS. 3 through 6. In the illustrated embodiment, the second panel 44 of the foldable cover portion 40 can be rotated onto the first panel 42, such that the first and second panels 42, 44 are adjacent each other. Additionally, the tab 46 can be cut or detached from the second panel 44 so that it extends from the edge defined by the fold line 19. In a preferred embodiment, the first and second panels 42, 44 are adhered to each other using, for example, an adhesive.

Any suitable adhesive can be used, such as glue and tape. Additionally, in some embodiments, the first and second panels 42, 44 of the foldable cover portion 40 can display a greeting drawn or printed thereon. The greeting can include text or visual designs, and be two-dimensional or three-dimensional (e.g., a pop-up greeting). In another embodiment, the greeting can be adhered to the first and second panels 42, 44 using an adhesive. One of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the other forms of greetings or shapes can be used, and that many other methods of attaching or printing and greetings on to the panels 42, 44 can be used. Additionally, the greetings can be placed on any of the surfaces of the tissue box 100 and are not limited to the panels 42, 44 of the foldable covered portion 40.

The first left and right side panels 60, 70 are folded along the fold lines 14a-b relative to the top panel 20, preferably such that they extend generally perpendicular to the top panel 20. As discussed above, the left and right ends 50a, 50b of the front side panel 50 are preferably detached from the first left and right side panels 60, 70 along the fold lines 18a, c.

Similarly, the second left and right side panels 62, 72 are folded along the fold lines 14c, d relative to the bottom panel 30, preferably so that they extend generally perpendicular to the bottom panel 30. The left and right ends 52a, 52b of the rear side panel 52 are preferably detached from the second left and right side panels 62, 72 along the fold lines 18e, 18f. Additionally, the second left and right side panels 62, 72 are preferably detached from the left and right ends 50a, 50b of the front side panel 50 along fold lines 18b, d.

The top side panel 20, as shown in FIG. 1, is preferably folded along the fold line 12b and rotated over the bottom panel 30, such that the top panel 20 is substantially aligned with, and extends generally parallel to, the bottom panel 30. In said position, the front side panel 50 is also folded along the fold lines 12b-c so that it extends generally perpendicular to the top and bottom panels 20, 30.

The first left and right side panels 60, 70 are preferably positioned adjacent, and fastened to, the second left and right side panels 62, 72, respectively. In one preferred embodiment, the first left and right side panels 60, 70 are fastened to the second left and right side panels 62, 72 via an adhesive, such as glue or tape. However, any suitable fasteners can be used. In another embodiment, the left and right side panels 60, 70, 62, 72 can be fastened to each other with staples or similar fasteners. Preferably, the left and right ends 50a, 50b of the front side panel 50 are disposed between the top and bottom panels 20, 30 when the top panel 20 is rotated over the bottom panel 30.

The connecting side panel 80 can be folded along the fold line 12a and oriented generally perpendicular to the top panel 20. Additionally, the rear side panel 52 can be folded along the fold lines 12d-e so that it extends generally normal to the bottom panel 20. Preferably, the connecting side panel 80 is fastened to the rear side panel 52, with the left and right ends 52a, 52b of the rear side panel 52 disposed in between the top and bottom panels 20, 30.

In the assembled configuration, such as that shown in FIG. 3, the frame 2 defines a compartment or cavity 86 (see FIG. 4) between the top and bottom panels 20, 30. Accordingly, the frame 2 can be assembled to form the tissue box 100, such as that shown in FIG. 3.

In the illustrated embodiment, the removable portion 22 has a generally rectangular shape. However, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the removable portion 22 can have any suitable shape, such as round, oval, square, or shapes resembling flowers, lips, a Rolodex™ card file, a heart, a nose, etc. In some embodiments, the frame 2 is manually assembled into the tissue box 100. In other embodiments, a machine (not shown) can be used to assemble the frame 2 into the tissue box 100.

As shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, the foldable cover portion 40 can advantageously be removably fastened to the top panel 20 by inserting the tab 46 in the aperture 26b. Accordingly, the foldable cover portion 40 substantially protects the top panel 20 and the removable portion 22 of the tissue box 100 during mailing.

FIG. 2 illustrates a plan view of another embodiment of a frame 2′ for assembling a tissue box 100′. The frame 2′ illustrated in FIG. 2 is constructed similar to the frame 2 shown in FIG. 1, except as noted below. Thus, the reference numerals used to designate the various components of the frame 2′ are identical to those used for identifying the corresponding components of the frame 2 in FIG. 1, except that a “′” has been added to the reference numerals.

As shown on FIG. 2, the first left and right side panels 60′, 70′ have first projections 60a, 70a extending therefrom along fold lines 15a, 15b, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the first projections 60a, 70a extend along a length shorter than the first length L1′ of the top panel 20′. The first projections 60a, 70a preferably have a generally trapezoidal configuration with angled edges 60b, 70b. However, in other embodiments, the first projections 60a, 70a can have other suitable shapes, such as rectangular.

Similarly, the second left and right side panels 62′, 72′ have second projections 62a, 72a extending therefrom along the fold lines 15c, 15d, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the second projections 62a, 72a extend along a length substantially equal to the second length L2′ of the bottom panel 30′. The second projections 62a, 72a preferably have a generally rectangular configuration. However, in other embodiments, the second projections 62a, 72a can have other suitable shapes, such as trapezoidal.

The bottom panel 30′ preferably has a left flap 36 and a right flap 38 defined thereon along edges 36a, 38a adjacent the fold lines 14c′, 14d′, respectively. The edges 36a, 38a can be cut using, for example, scissors to allow the flaps 36, 38 to move relative to the bottom panel 30′ to define apertures (not shown) adjacent the fold lines 14c′, d′. In one embodiment, the apertures in the bottom panel 30′ are similar to the aperture 26b′ formed on the top panel 20′, as previously discussed. The apertures on the bottom panel 30′ are preferably sized to receive the projections 60a, 70a extending from the first left and right side panels 60′, 70′. The angled edges 60b, 70b of the projections 60a, 70a preferably facilitate the insertion of the projections 60a, 70a into said apertures.

The frame 2′ is assembled into the tissue box 100′ in a manner similar to that described above with respect to the tissue box 100, except as noted below. When the top panel 20′ is folded onto the bottom panel 30′, such that the panels 20′, 30′ are aligned generally parallel to each other, the projections 60a, 70a can be inserted into the apertures formed by flaps 36, 38, thus forming the enclosed cavity or compartment 86′ between the top and bottom panels 20′, 30′ (see FIG. 4).

As can be seen from FIG. 2, clearances 90 separate the left and right ends 50a′, 50b′ of the front side panel 50′ from the first and second left and right side panels 60′, 70′, 62′, 72′. Likewise, the clearances 90 separate the left and right ends 52a′, 52b′ of the rear side panel 52′ from the second left and right side panels 62′, 72′. The clearances 90 provide gaps between the left and right ends 50a′, 50b′, 52a′, 52b′ of the front and rear side panels 50′, 52′ and the first and second left and right side panels 60′, 70′, 62′, 72′, such that when a user rotates the side panels 60′, 70′, 62′, 72′ about the fold lines 14a′-d′, the side panels 60′, 70′, 62′, 72′ will rotate freely and not be impeded by the left and right ends 50a′, 50b′, 52a′, 52b′.

In the illustrated embodiment, the frame 2′ can be folded to assemble the tissue box 100′, as shown in FIGS. 3-6. In one embodiment, the projections 60a, 70a, 62a, 72a can advantageously provide further support to the assembled tissue box 100′. For example, when the second left and right side panels 62′, 72′ are folded generally perpendicular to the bottom panel 30′, the projections 62a, 72a can be folded and positioned generally perpendicular to the second side panels 62′, 72′ and fastened to the top panel 20′. Therefore, the projections 62a, 72a can add further structural support to increase the rigidity of the tissue box 100′.

As discussed before, the frame 2′ can, in one embodiment, be manually assembled into the tissue box 100′. In another embodiment, a machine (not shown) can be used to assemble the frame 2′ into the tissue box 100′.

With reference to FIG. 4, the removable portion 22, 22′ can additionally have a second removable part 28 defined by a scored edge 28a. The second removable part 28 facilitates the removal of the removable portion 22, 22′ from the top panel 20, 20′ to permit access to the compartment or cavity 86, 86′ between the top and bottom panels 20, 20′, 30, 30′ of the tissue box 100, 100′.

FIG. 5 shows a bottom view of the tissue box 100, 100′. In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom panel 30, 30′ has a postage area 92 and an address area 94 formed thereon. The postage and address areas 92, 94 can be designated by score lines, printed solid or broken lines, stitch lines, or the like. Accordingly, the tissue box 100, 100′ is readily configured to be mailed by a user.

As shown on FIG. 6, the tissue box 100, 100′ can enclose additional materials 200. However, the contents enclosed in the tissue box 100 need not be linear and can comprise other shapes such as oval, or square. In the illustrated embodiment, the tissue box 100 is packed with tissue paper 210; a delicate material.

A further advantage is achieved where the tissue paper 210 is pre-loaded onto a tray 220, which is then inserted into the cavity 86, 86′ between the top and bottom panels 20, 20′, 30, 30′. After the tray 220 has been inserted into the cavity 86, 86′, the right side panels 70, 72, 70′, 72′ can be folded about the right ends 50b, 50b′ and fastened to each other to seal the linear material 200 in the tissue box 100, 100′. An aspect of at least some of the embodiments disclosed herein includes the realization that pre-loading the tray 220 with a delicate material, such as tissue paper products 210 (e.g., tissues) the process of inserting the tissues into the box is simplified and can be performed at high speed with loading machines.

Without the tray 220, delicate material is difficult to insert into a small cavity, such as the cavities 86, 86′. Thus, such a procedure would be performed manually. However, by pre-loading such delicate material into a tray, such as the tray 220, the tray 220 and any delicate material pre-loaded into the tray 220, can easily and quickly be inserted into another container, such as the cavities 86, 86′ quickly, and optionally, by existing machines.

With continued reference to FIG. 6, a method of forming the tissue box, such as the boxes 100, 100′ or other tissue boxes, can include providing the frame 2, 2′, as discussed above, and assembling the frame 2, 2′ into the tissue box 100, 100′. The material 200 is preferably pre-loaded into a tray 220. The tray 220 is then inserted into the cavity 86, 86′ of the tissue box 100, 100′ through an open end defined by the right side panels 70, 72, 70′, 72′. The open end is then closed to seal the linear material 200 in the cavity 86, 86′.

In some embodiments, the tray 220 is manually inserted into the cavity 86, 86′ of the tissue box 100. In other embodiments, the tray 220 is automatically inserted into the cavity 86, 86′ of the tissue box 100 using a machine (not shown). In some embodiments, the tissue box 100, 100′ can be assembled mechanically, using, for example, an assembly-line type process known in the art. Machines for automatically inserting materials into a box are commercially available from suppliers such as Langenpac N.V.

FIG. 7 illustrates another embodiment of a frame 302 for a tissue box 300. In the illustrated embodiment, the frame 302 is similar to the frame 2 illustrated in FIG. 1, except as noted below. The tissue box 300 can have any shape, thickness and can be configured to contain any number of delicate articles, including, but without limitation, tissues.

As shown on FIG. 7, the frame 302 includes a top panel 320 and a bottom panel 330, first left and right side panels 360, 370 attached to the top panel 320, and second left and right side panels 362, 372 attached to the bottom panel 330, in a similar fashion to that discussed above for FIG. 1. Additionally, the frame 302 has a front side panel 350, a rear side panel 352, and a connecting panel 380. The frame 302 can be assembled into the tissue box 300 in the same manner as the frame 2 shown in FIG. 1, along fold lines 312a-d, 314a-d, 316a-d, 318a-f, except that the frame 302 does not have a corresponding foldable cover portion.

In the illustrated embodiment, the frame 302 comprises a hook 390 extending from the rear side panel 352. In some embodiments, the hook 390 is integral with the rear side panel 352 and rotatable about a fold line 398. In other embodiments, the hook 390 is attached to the rear side panel 352 via, for example, an adhesive.

Preferably, the hook 390 comprises a cantilevered portion 392 defining a slot 394 and at least one slit 396 formed on the cantilevered portion 392. In the illustrated embodiment, multiple slits 396 are shown.

The slits 396 advantageously allow the cantilevered portion 392 to deform to allow object of varying sizes into the slot 394. Preferably, the slits 396 extend a distance into the cantilever portion 392 to provide adequate flexibility, while maintaining the structural rigidity of the hook 390 sufficiently to support the entire weight of the article 300.

Preferably, the cantilevered portion 392 can deform to allow the hook 390 to be fastened onto a variety of supports (not shown). For example, the hook 390 can be fastened to a head-rest of a car seat, or the dashboard of a car. In another example, the hook 390 can be fastened to door handles, drawer handles, baby strollers, make-up counters, and chairs. The hook 390 can also be fastened to cup holders, such as those in automobiles, movie theaters, etc. Of course, one of ordinary skill in the art will recognize that the hook 390 can be fastened to a variety of other supports.

The frame 302 illustrated in FIG. 7 can be assembled into the tissue box 300, as discussed above, and as shown in FIG. 8. In the illustrated embodiment, the removable portion 322 on the top panel 320 of the tissue box extends along a plane P1 generally parallel to a plane P2 on which the hook 390 extends. Accordingly, when the removable portion 322 is removed to allow access to the contents inside the cavity 386 between the top and bottom panels 320, 330, said contents can be removed in a direction generally perpendicular to the plane P2 of the hook 390. As described above with respect to FIG. 3, the removable portion 322 has a second removable part 328 formed thereon and defined by a scored boundary 328a to facilitate the removal of the removable portion 322 and access to the cavity 386.

As discussed above, the hook 390 is preferably deformable to allow fastening of the hook 390 to a variety of supports. Accordingly, the cantilevered portion 392 of the hook 390 can be deformed so as to extend at an angle to the plane P1 of the top panel 320. Preferably, a thickness t″ of the tissue box 300 is between about ½ inch and about 1¾ inches. In another preferred embodiment, the thickness t″ of the tissue box 300 is preferably between about ¾ inch and about 1½ inches. In still another embodiment, the thickness t″ is preferably not greater than one inch.

As shown on FIG. 9, the frame 302 can have other dimensions so as to form an tissue box 300′ having a different configuration, such as a cube, a cylinder, or a pyramid. In the illustrated embodiment, a removable portion 322′ of a top panel 320′ extends along a plane P3 generally perpendicular to the plane P2 of the hook 390. Accordingly, when the removable portion 322′ is removed to allow access to the contents in the cavity 386′, the contents can be removed in a direction generally parallel to the plane P2 of the hook 390.

FIG. 10 illustrates another embodiment of a tissue box 400. In the illustrated embodiment, a container 410 is attached to a bag 480. In the illustrated embodiment, the container 410 is a tissue box.

As shown on FIG. 11, the container 410 of the tissue box 400 comprises a top panel 420 and a bottom panel 430 opposite the top panel 420. The panels 420, 430 define a cavity 456 therebetween. The top panel 420 has a removable portion 422 defined by a boundary line 424, the removal of which provides access to the contents inside the cavity 456.

Similar to other embodiments discussed above, a second removable part 428 defined by boundary 428a is formed on the removable portion 422 to facilitate the removal of the removable portion 428. In the illustrated embodiment, a cover 442 is attached to the container 410, wherein the cover 442 has an opening 443 defined by an inner edge 444. Preferably, the cover 442 is made of a flexible material, as discussed above, and is movable relative to the container 410. Preferably, the edge 44 is shaped to define a target area 445. In one embodiment, the target area 445 can be in the shape of a basketball rim. In another embodiment, the target area 445 can be in the shape of a bull's-eye. However, the target area 445 can have any desired form.

The bag 480 can be attached to the cover 442, such that an open end 482 of the bag 480 is fastened to the edge 444 of the cover 442. Preferably, the bag 480 has an aperture 484 at the open end 482 of the bag 480, which provides access through the opening 443 to a compartment (not shown) within the bag 480.

The bag 480 also has a body 486 extending from the open end 482 of the bag to a bottom or closed end 488. Preferably, the bag 480 is movable between a folded and unfolded configuration.

The bag 480 can be made out of any material. In some embodiments, the bag 480 can be made of a flexible but resilient material. In another embodiment, the bag can be made of plastic. However, the bag 480 can be made of any suitable material configured to contain moisture.

A further advantage is achieved wherein the bag 480 is configured to provide a support configured to support the tissue box 400 in an upright orientation. In some embodiments, the bag 480 can be made of plain or waxed paper. Such paper bags are widely commercially available. Additionally, such bags are somewhat stiff when unfolded into an opened configuration. This stiffness can be sufficient to support a tissue box, such as the box 400, in an upright orientation, as shown in FIGS. 11 and 12.

As shown in FIG. 12, the open end 482 of the bag 480 can be accessed through the cover 442, and the bag 480 can serve as a receptacle for, for example, trash, used tissues, and the like. In some embodiments, where the container 410 is a tissue box, the bag 480 can be used to hold used tissues. In this embodiment, the tissue box 400 thus advantageously provides a source of tissues and a receptacle for storing used tissues.

As shown in FIG. 11, the container 410 also defines a right side panel 460 having a thickness t′″. In one preferred embodiment, the thickness t′″ is between about ½ inch and 1¾ inches. In another preferred embodiment, the thickness t′″ is between about ¾ inch and about 1½ inch. In still another embodiment, the thickness t′″ is less than about one inch. Advantageously, the cover 442 can be folder over the bottom panel 430 of the container 410, with the bag 480 in the folded position therebetween, to provide a collapsed configuration for the tissue box 400. In said collapsed configuration, the thickness of the tissue box 400 is generally equal to the thickness t′″.

FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate another embodiment of a tissue box 400′. The embodiment shown in FIGS. 13-14 is similar to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 11-12, except as noted below. Thus, the reference numerals used to designate the various components of the tissue box 400′ are identical to those used for identifying the corresponding components of the tissue box 400 in FIGS. 11-12, except that a “′” has been added to the reference numerals.

As shown in FIG. 13 In the illustrated embodiment, a hook 490 extends from a top portion of a cover 442′, allowing the tissue box 400′ to be hung from said hook 490 when attached to a support, such as a handle as described above. As discussed previously, the hook 490 preferably has a cantilevered portion 492 that defines a slot 494 therebetween, and at least one slit 496 formed on the cantilevered portion. In the illustrated embodiment, the cantilever portion 492 has multiple slits 496, which facilitate the deflection of the cantilever portion 492 to allow a support to enter the slot 494. As with other embodiments, at least one of the surfaces on the cover 442′ and container 410′ can have a greeting or other design displayed thereon.

FIG. 15 illustrates another embodiment of a tissue box 400″. The illustrated embodiment is similar to the embodiment described above with respect to FIGS. 13-14, except as noted below. Thus, the reference numerals used to designate the various components of the tissue box 400″ are identical to those used for identifying the corresponding components of the tissue box 400′ in FIGS. 13-14, except that a “′” has been added to the reference numerals.

In the illustrated embodiment, the top panel 420″ of the container 410″ preferably has a postage area 498 and an address area 499. Accordingly, user can provide a delivery address on the address area 499 and affix a stamp on the postage area 498 for mailing the tissue box 400″. As with any of the embodiments described above, any surface of the cover 442″ or container 410″ can receive or carry a greeting or design thereon.

Of course, the foregoing description is that of certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention to which various changes and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Moreover, the tissue box may not feature all objects and advantages discussed above to use certain features, aspects and advantages of the present invention. Thus, for example, those skill in the art will recognize that the invention can be embodied or carried out in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or a group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other objects or advantages as may be taught or suggested herein. In addition, while a number of variations of the invention have been shown and described in detail, other modifications and methods of use, which are within the scope of this invention, will be readily apparent to those of skill in the art based upon this disclosure. It is contemplated that various combinations or subcombinations of these specific features and aspects of embodiments may be made and still following the scope of the invention. Accordingly, it should be understood that various features and aspects of the disclosed embodiments can be combined with or substituted for one another in order to form varying modes of the discussed tissue box.

Claims

1. A mailable greeting article, comprising:

a body having a top panel and a plurality of surfaces defining a cavity;

a removable portion formed on said top panel to provide access to the cavity; and

a cover movably attached to the body,

wherein at least one of the surfaces is configured to display a greeting thereon, and wherein another of the surfaces defines a postage area and an address area thereon for mailing.

2. The article of claim 1, wherein the cover is solid and removably fastenable to the top panel to protect the top panel during mailing.

3. The article of claim 1, wherein the body has a thickness in the range of between about ½ inch and 1¾ inches.

4. The article of claim 1, wherein the body has a thickness of between about ¾ inch and 1½ inches.

5. The article of claim 1, wherein the body has a thickness of no more than about 1½ inches.

6. The article of claim 1, further comprising a tray removably insertable in the cavity, the tray configured to carry a linear material.

7. The article of claim 6, wherein the linear material is tissue paper.

8. The article of claim 6, wherein the tray is automatically fed into the cavity of the body during manufacture.

9. A mailable greeting article, comprising:

a body having a top panel and a plurality of surfaces defining a cavity;

a removable portion formed on said top panel to provide access to the cavity; and

a hook extending from the body and configured to support the body, the hook being deformable and having a cantilever portion defining a slot.

10. The article of claim 9, wherein the cantilever portion has at least one slit configured to facilitate the deformation of the cantilever portion.

11. The article of claim 9, wherein the hook extends along a plane generally parallel to the top panel.

12. The article of claim 9, wherein the hook extends along a plane generally normal to the top panel.

13. A tissue box, comprising:

a body having a top panel and a plurality of surfaces defining a cavity;

a plurality of tissues disposed in the cavity;

an aperture formed on the top panel to provide access to the tissues in the cavity; and

a bag attached to the body and configured to be moveable between a folded and an unfolded configuration.

14. The tissue box of claim 13, wherein the bag is configured to support the body in a generally upright position when in the unfolded configuration.

15. The tissue box of claim 13 additionally comprising a cover member pivotally connected to the body, wherein the bag is configured to be disposed between the cover and the body when in the folded configuration.

16. The tissue box of claim 15, wherein the top panel is disposed opposite the cover when the cover is substantially adjacent the body and the bag is in the folded configuration.

17. The tissue box of claim 13 additionally comprising a cover member pivotally connected to the body, the cover member including a second aperture, the bag having a opening connected to the second aperture such that an interior of the bag can be accessed through the second aperture.

18. A mailable greeting article, comprising:

a body having a top panel and a plurality of surfaces defining a cavity;

a removable portion formed on said top panel to provide access to the cavity;

a cover movably attached to the body and extending from one of the surfaces;

a bag attached to the cover and having a compartment accessible through the cover, the bag moveable between a folded and unfolded configuration; and

a hook extending from the cover and configured to support the body, the hook being deformable and having a cantilever portion defining a slot.

19. The article of claim 18, wherein the cantilever portion has at least one slit configured to facilitate the deformation of the cantilever portion.

20. A mailable greeting article, comprising:

a body having a top panel and a plurality of surfaces defining a cavity;

a removable portion formed on said top panel to provide access to the cavity;

a cover movably attached to the body and extending from one of the surfaces;

a bag attached to the cover and having a compartment accessible through the cover, the bag moveable between a folded and unfolded configuration; and

a hook extending from the cover and configured to support the body, the hook being deformable and having a cantilever portion defining a slot,

wherein at least one of the surfaces is configured to display a greeting thereon, and wherein another of the surfaces defines a postage area and an address area thereon for mailing.

21. The article of claim 20, wherein the body has a thickness in the range of between about ½ inch and 1½ inches.

22. The article of claim 20, wherein the body has a thickness of between about ¾ inch and 1¼ inches.

23. A tissue box comprising a box member enclosing a plurality of tissues on all sides, an opening disposed on a side of the box configured to allowing a user to extract a tissue from an interior of the box, and a tray member disposed inside the box, wherein the plurality of tissues are disposed in the tray.

24. A method for loading a mailable greeting article, comprising:

providing a body having a top panel and a plurality of surfaces defining a cavity, the cavity accessible through an open end of the body;

providing a tray pre-filled with linear material;

automatically inserting the tray into the cavity of the body through said open end; and

closing said open end to seal the cavity.