US3361331A - Adjustable lock for carton - Google Patents

Description

Jan. 2, 1968 A. J.WEISS 3,361,331

ADJUSTABLE LOCK FOR CARTON Filed Aug. 24, 1 965 3 Sheets-Sheet 1 v INVENTOR ARTHUR WEISS Jan. 2, 1968 r A. J. WEISS ADJUSTABLE LOCK FOR CARTON 3 Sheets-Sheet 2 Filed Aug. 24, 1965 ARTHUR J. WEISS "u. i than) 'ITORNEYS Jan. 2, 1968 A. J. WEISS ADJUSTABLE LOCK FOR CARTON Filed Aug. 24, 1965 3 Sheets-Sheet 5 INVENTOR ATTORNEYS ARTHUR J. WEISS wi mg United States Patent 3,361,331 ADJUSTABLE LOCK FOR CARTON Arthur J. Weiss, Bergenfield, N.J., assignor to Continental Can Company, Inc., New York, N.Y., a corporation of New York Filed Aug. 24, 1965, Ser. No. 482,219 28 Claims. (Cl. 229-40) ABSTRACT OF THE DISCLOSURE This subject has to do with locks for cartons of the wrap-around type. Normally closure panels are provided with interlocking elements to tightly secure the carton in a Wrapped around condition relative to containers. The carton of this disclosure has two sets of altenative locks carried by the two closure portions whereby the same carton may accommodate containers having different Wrap-around dimensions.

The present invention relates to a carton blank and a carton or carrier for retaining a group of containers disposed in parallel rows and more specifically to a locking means for the blank and carton, which locking means provides a means for accommodating groups of containers having different Wraparound dimensions. The foregoing is achieved by providing a carton blank with a plurality of carton locking positions.

This invention finds utility in the container field wherein a group of containers, such as the familiar six-pack carton, are retained Within a carton or carrier in two substantially parallel rows, the containers being retained in a side-by-side relationship. The carrier is formed from a blank and wrapped about the group of containers during a packaging operation. In this manner, the group of containers is retained snugly in place, the possibility of breakage and inadvertent removal of the container from the carton being eliminated or at least substantially reduced.

Although the invention may be described as having applicability to retaining or forming a six-pack carton, it will readily be understood that the invention has utility in retaining any number of containers and in any configuration, the requirement being that the carton be capable of being placed about the group of containers and being locked in position about the containers.

Before the actual packaging of the groups of containers, the carton forming equipment is adjusted to form the carton about the group according to the dimension and configuration of the containers. If all of the containers to be packaged and the groups are substantially identical in geometric configuration, then it is a relatively simple matter to so adjust the packaging machinery as to provide a carrier or carton when the containers within the carton are snugly housed, i.e., the wrap-around dimension of the carrier being substantially equal to the wraparound dimension of the containers. However, a problem arises wherein all of the containers are not of a substantially uniform size. If one manufacturer of containers supplies the containers having one wrap-around dimension, and a second supplier supplies containers having a second wrap-around dimension, then two different carton blanks must be kept available for packaging the groups of containers. Furthermore, the packaging may become further complicated if the two sizes of containers are mixed so that the containers are now not substantially uniform in size. If one or more containers of the group of containers is slightly smaller than the other containers, then the cartons will not fit snugly about the group but fit only loosely, thus allowing for inadvertent removal of the container from the carton. Intuitively, the loose fitting carton is not desirable. Therefore, the need arises for a 3,351,331 Patented Jan. 2, 1968 Wrap-around carton, such as disclosed by the present invention, which has a plurality of locking positions so as to provide for different wrap-around dimensions of the cartons. This need for a multi-positionable carton arises due to the inability of each container manufacturer to produce containers substantially identical to all containers of other manufacturers. In the glass bottle art, it is known that variations in the sizes of the glass bottle containers do occur.

Accordingly, it is the principal object of the present invention to improve Wrap-around blanks and cartons having a plurality of positions in its assembled configuration.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a wrap-around carton and blank for accommodating groups of containers having different dimensions.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a wrap-around carton for housing a group of containers and having locking means which are disposable in a plurality of positions according to the wrap-around dirnension of the group.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide a locking means for a carton which comprises overlapping closure means, the closure means including a plurality of first and second closure panels and first and second projecting panels which are adapted for engagement to provide a first locking position and a second locking position, the first locking position providing for one wrap-around dimension and the second locking position providing for a difierent wrap-around dimension, according to the wrap-around dimension of the container or containers to be enclosed.

It is a further object of the present invention to pro vide one embodiment of a variable locking means for a carton wherein tabs projecting from a second projecting panel mate with and lock within notches formed in a first closure panel and a tab supported from a second projecting panel is inserted within an aperture formed in a first closure panel so as to provide a first locking position and wherein a wedge-shaped projection on a first projecting panel is locked within an aperture and about a seond projecting panel and a tab projecting from a first projecting panel is inserted into a slit within a second closure panel so as to form a second locking position, the first and second locking positions providing diiferent wrap-around dimensions of a carton assembled from a blank.

It is a still further object of the present invention to provide another embodiment of a variable locking means for a carton wherein an ofiset tab projecting from a second projecting panel is inserted into an offset aperture in a first projecting panel and a tab extending from the second projecting panel is inserted into a slit in a first closure panel so as to form the first locking position and a substantially reverse procedure in assembling the panels will provide the second locking position, the first and second locking positions providing for different wrap-around dimensions of a carton assembled from a blank bearing the foregoing panels, projections and apertures.

It is a further object of the present invention to provide another embodiment of a variable locking means for a carton wherein a pair of teeth projecting from a second projecting panel are locked about a first projecting panel with a tab extending from the second projecting panel being inserted into a slit in a first closure panel so as to provide a first locking position and wherein a tooth extending from the first projecting panel is inserted about and locked within a slot formed in the second projecting panel with the tab extending from the first projecting panel being locked within the second closure panel, so as to provide a second locking posit-ion, the first and second locking positions providing for different wrap-around dimensions of a carton assembled from a blank bearing the foregoing features.

It is a still further object of the present invention to provide another embodiment of a variable locking means for a carton wherein projecting tabs or ears from a first projecting panel are locked within notches formed in a second closure panel and a flap within the second closure panel being inserted into and locking within a first closure panelso as to provide a first locking position and wherein a projection from a second porjecting panel is inserted into an aperture in the first closure panel and locked about the first projecting panel with a flap from the first closure panel being inserted into a slit formed in the second projectiing panel so as to provide a second locking position, the first and second locking positions providing for difierent wrap-around dimensions.

It is a still further object of the present invention to provide another embodiment of a variable locking means for a carton wherein a projection from a second projecting panel is inserted into an aperture in a first closure panel and locked about a first projecting panel with a tab extending from the second projecting panel being locked into a slit in a first closure panel so as to provide a first locking position and wherein a projection from the first projecting panel is locked within an aperture formed on a second closure panel and a tab projecting from a first projecting panel is inserted into a slit formed in the second closure panel so as to provide a second locking position,

the first and second locking positions providing for different wrap-around dimensions of a carton assembled from a blank bearing the foregoing propections, apertures, and panels.

It is a still further object of the present invention to' provide a wrap-around carton and blank, which carton and blank includes the novel closure means including the first and second locking positions as well as side panels and intermediate panels for forming the complete blank and the subsequently encircling carrier about a group of containers.

These and other objects of the present invention are accomplished by providing a blank which yields a wraparound carton having parallel side walls joined by an intermediate top and bottom wall, with a unique carton locking means. Since the wrap-around dimension of a group of containers assembled for positioning within a wrap-around carton may vary, the locking means of the present invention exhibits a plurality of locking positions so that the locking position which retains the containers most snugly within the carton, may be selected. In the particular embodiments which are shown and described two such locking positions are provided.

In general, the locking means provided by the difierent embodiments shown and illustrated in the present invention includes overlapping closure means which closure means inculdes first and second clouser panels and one or more first and second projecting panels, respectively,

which are joined thereto. In addition, tabs may project from the projecting panel and in one embodiment, the equivalent of the tabs is a flap formed in the first and second closure panels. The general feature of the different embodiments is that a locking position is accomplished between a tab projecting from a projecting panel and a larger tab projecting from the same panel which is then locked within a corresponding closure panel. In each of the embodiments, each of the elements of the closure means are somewhat similar except that means are provided for oifsetting the closure means so as to provide the plurality of locking positions, the offsetting usually being accomplished by apertures of lesser or greater dimensions according to the panels in which they are formed.

The invention both as to its organization and method of operation together with further objects and advantages thereof will best be understood by reference to the following specification taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

FIGURE 1 is a perspective view of a carton and illustrating the locking means in one of its embodiments and when employed as a lower carton closing means;

FIGURE 2 is a plan view of a blank from which the carton of the FIGURE 1 was formed;

FIGURE 3 is a fragmentary perspective view of one of the embodiments of the invention and illustrating a step in the forming of the lock of the carton of the FIGURE 1;

FIGURE 4 is a fragmentary perspective view illustrating a subsequent step after the step shown in the FIGURE 3 in the forming of the lock of the carton of the FIG-' URE 1;

FIGURE 5 is a fragmentary horizontal sectional view through the package with portions of the containers being broken away to more clearly illustrate the details of the interlocking panels; 7

FIGURE 6 is a framentary bottom view of the lock of the carton of the FIGURE 5;

FIGURE 7 is a sectional view taken along the line 77 of the FIGURE 4 and illustrating the formation of the carton of the FIGURES 1 and 3 through 6 which carton has the lesser wrap-around dimension;

FIGURE 8 is a fragmentary horizontal sectional view through the package and similar to the view illustrated in the FIGURE 5 except that the lock is shown in its greater wrap-around dimension, the FIGURE 8 showing portions of the containers broken away to more clearly illustrate the details of the interlock in this configuration;

FIGURE 9 is a fragmentary bottom view of the lock of the carton of the FIGURE 8;

FIGURE 10 is a sectional view illustrating the formation of the lock of the carton of the FIGURES 8 and 9, which carton has the greater wrap-around dimension; 7

FIGURE 11 is a plan view of another embodiment of the closure means which would be sustituted for the closure means of the blank of the FIGURE 2;

FIGURE 12 is a plan view illustrating the closure means of the FIGURE 11 in providing the greater wrap around dimension;

FIGURE 13 is a further embodiment of the carton closure and locking means which would be substituted for the locking means of the blank of the FIGURE 2;

- FIGURE 14 is a plan view illustrating the positioning of the closure means of the FIGURE 13 so as to provide the greater wrap-around dimension;

FIGURE 15 is a still further embodiment of the carton closure means and shown in plan view and which would be substituted for the carton closure means in the blank of the FIGURE 2;

FIGURE 16 is a plan view illustrating how the closure means of the FIGURE 15 are engaged so as to provide the lesser wrap-around dimension;

FIGURE 17 is a still further embodiment of the carton closure means shown in plan view and which would be substituted for the carton closure means of the blank of the FIGURE 2; and

FIGURE 18 is a plan view showing the carton closure elements of the FIGURE 17 in their engaged positions so as to provide the greater wrap-around dimension of a carton when so assembled.

With reference to the FIGURE 1, a carton has been formed about a plurality of hypothetical containers which in the embodiment of the FIGURE 1, would enclose six containers disposed in two parallel side-by-side rows. Before elaborating upon the carton of the FIGURE 1, it is believed advantageous to consider the blank of the FIG- URE 2.

The blank of the FIGURE 2 may be folded in one embodiment to form a carton or carrier, such as that shown in the FIGURE 1, which provides One wrap-around dimension and, in addition, may be folded in a second embodiment to provide a carton having a, different wraparound dimension. The manner in which the two different wrap-around dimensions may be accomplished through the predetermined formation of the carton, will now be set forth.

In the blank of the FIGURE 2, only the closure means A and the closure means B have been shown in detail since the side panels, intermediate pane-ls, etc. may he of any desired configuration. The closure means A includes a first closure panel to which are joined one or more projecting panels 22. Similarly, the closure means B includes a second closure panel 24 to which are joined one or more projecting panels 26. A small panel 28 is joined by way of a fold line 30 to the first closure panel 28 and by a fold line 32 to a side panel 34, which side panel 34 is shown in broken outline. A panel 36, similar to the panel 28, is joined by a fold line 38 to the second closure panel and to a side panel 48 by a fold line 42. The side panel 40 is also shown in broken and partial outline. The side panels 34 and 40 may take any configuration as found expedient, such as that shown in the FIGURE 1, and it will be understood that the side panels 34 and 40 would be joined by one or more panels to complete the blank of the FIGURE 2 so as to provide a complete wrap-around carton, such as that shown in the FIGURE 1. The panels 28 and 36 are provided with a plurality of moon-shaped apertures 44 which are substantially in-line with the projecting panels 26 and equal in number to the containers to be positioned within a completed carton or carrier. The apertures 44 serve to receive the edge or chime of a container and thereby assist in the positioning and retention of the containers within the carton.

With continued reference to the FIGURE 2, a tab 46 projects from each of the projecting panels 22 and is joined to the projecting panel 22 via fold line 48. The fold line 48 may or may not be interrupted at intervals by a severed line 50. In addition, severed lines 52 and 52 are formed in each of the tabs 46 for a short distance and are substantially parallel to the fold line 48, as shown. The projecting ends of the tabs 46 may take any convenient configuration or they may be scalloped such as that shown at 54.

The projecting panels 22 are joined to the first closure panel 20 via a fold line 56 which is interrupted at regular intervals by wedge-shaped severed lines so as to permit a portion or projection 58 of each of the projecting panels 22 to extend into the first closure panel 20. The projections 58 are severed up to the fold line 56 and when the projecting panels 22 are rotated about their fold line 56, then the projections 58 also rotate and remain in the same plane as that occupied by its corresponding projecting panel 22.

A plurality of apertures are formed in the first closure panel 20, the apertures being in two substantially parallel rows. The first row comprises the semi-circular apertures 60 which are positioned slightly away from the fold line 56 and between each of the projecting panels 22. Since the apertures 60 are formed in such a manner with onehalf of the apertures 60 being positioned above one pro jecting panel 22 and the other half of the aperture 60 being positioned above an adjacent projecting panel 22, the apertures at the edges of the closure panel 20 are notches 62 and 62 since the blank of the FIGURE 2. would normally be severed so that each projecting panel 22 would be in its entirety and not partially present.

The second row of apertures are slightly above the apertures 60 and are formed substantially in-line with the tabs 46 and the projection 58, these apertures being identified as 64. A severed line 66 is positioned along one edge of each of the semi-circular apertures 64 and forms one side of the apertures 64; however, the severed lines 66 are somewhat longer than the diameter of the apertures 64 so that the severed lines 66 extend into and beyond the outline of the apertures 64. The apertures 64 and severed lines 66 are adapted to receive tabs, to be here- 6 inafter described, which project from the projecting panels 26.

As shown in the FIGURE 2, the projecting panels 26 are joined to the second closure panel 24 by an interrupted fold line 68. The fold line 68 is interrupted midway of each projecting panel 26 to permit the formation of a square aperture 70 which is positioned so that one of its sides is substantially in line with the fold line 68. The opposite side of the aperture 70 is in the form of a severed line 72 which, of course, is somewhat greater in length than the side of the aperture or opening 70 so that the severed line 72 extends beyond the perpendicular sides of the aperture. As will hereinafter be described, the tabs 46 project into the aperture 70 and lock within the severed. lines 72.

The fold line 68 is also interrupted in the area where adjoining projecting panels 26 meet so that a projection 74 is formed at the junction, which projections 74 extends into the second closure panel 24 and rotates with the projecting panels 26 when the projecting panels 26 are rotated about their fold line 68. At the ends of the two outermost projecting panels 26, the projections 74' are only one-half the length of the projection 74 since the other half of the projection would be on the adjoining projecting panel. Projecting from each of the projecting panels 26 is a tab 76 which is substantially identical to the tabs 46. In addition, the tabs 76 are joined by similar fold lines 48 and identified as 48', similar severed lines 5%) and 52', and similar scalloped edges 54'.

In the FIGURE 1, the blank of the FIGURE 2 has been formed into a carton or carrier which is shown in perspective view. It will be noted that the side panels 34 and 40 are joined by a plurality of intermediate panels 77, 78 and 79 so as to complete the closure. It will be noted that the closure means A and the closure means B have been joined so that the carton is now closed and ready for shipment. It will be understood that a group of containers, six containers in the embodiment shown in the FIGURE 1, would be positioned within the panels of the FIGURE 1 and the closure means engaged.

In order to better understand how the closure means A and closure means B are joined so as to form the configuration shown in the FIGURE 1, reference will be had to the FIGURES 3 and 4 wherein the manner of joining is set forth in two steps. After the side panels 34 and 40 and the intermediate panels 77, 78 and 79 have been positioned about a group of containers, then the closure means A and closure means B would be brought together as shown in the FIGURE 3 with the closure means A against the containers while the closure means B would be positioned slightly away from the containers. After that, the projecting panel 26 would be rotated about its fold line 68 so that the projections 74 and 74' point toward the direction shown in the FIGURE 4. The projections 74 and 74' are then inserted into the aperture 60 and the notch 62, respectively, so that a locking engagement is effected through the cooperation of these elements. Thereafter, the tab 76 is brought downwardly, which carries the projecting panel 26 with it and into further locking engagement with the first closure panel 26, and the tab 76 is inserted in the aperture 64 at the severed line 66. The closing is now accomplished and would be as shown in the FIGURE 1. In the embodiment shown in the FIGURES 1, 3 and 4, the lesser wraparound dimension is accomplished. This dimension and procedure is further described with reference to the FIGURES 5, 6 and 7. Thereafter, in order to accomplish the greater wrap-around dimension, the procedure will be discussed with reference to the FIGURES 8, 9 and 10.

The FIGURE 5 is a view which one would see if viewing inside the carton with portions of the containers removed in order to illustrate the adjustable lock. As set forth with reference to the FIGURES 1, 3 and 4, the projections 74 and 74 have been inserted into the 7. aperture 60 and the notch 62, respective ly, and the tab 76 of the projecting panel 26 has been inserted through the aperture 64 and rests in the severed line 66. The containers in cross-section are identified as 80. The projecting panel 22 with its associated tab 46 lays fiat and against the second closure panel 24 as shown.

A salient feature of the invention and an understanding of which is necessary in order to envision the two dilferent positions or looking engagement positions of the closure means, is to observe the relative positions of the fold lines 56 and 68. In the FIGURE 5, the fold lines 56 and 68 are shown as being separated by a short distance so as to yield the dimension LD (for lesser dimension) which is measured from the outside of adjacent containers. In its other locking position, to be hereinafter described, the fold lines 56 and 68 will be superimposed so as to yield a dimension GD (for greater dimension which is shown in the FIGURE 8.

The FIGURE 6 is a plan view of the closure means A and closure means B and similar to the showing of the perspective view of the FIGURE 1. The projections and panels are so interlocked that the fold lines 56 and 68 are separated by a distance D, as shown. As previously set forth in its other configuration, the fold lines 56 and 68 would be on top of each other so that a greater wrap-around dimension is provided.

The FIGURE 7, which is a sectional view taken along the line 77 of the FIGURE 4, illustrates the manner in which the closure means A and the closure means B are engaged so as to provide the lesser d mension for the assembled carton of the FIGURE 1. As previously set forth, the projection 74 is inserted within the notch '60 after the projecting panel 26 has been rotated about its fold line 56. The tab 76 is bent upwardly and with an upward motion, is then directed toward the aperture 64. The projection 74 then rotates in a counter-clockwise direction and the tab 76 is positioned within the aperture 64 at the severed line 66. It will be noted that the fold lines 56 and 68 are separated by a distance D and that the distance from the fold line 56 to the end of the closure panel 24, is the distance E. In its other configuration, the fold line 56 will be positioned upon the fold line 68 by a movement of the closure means B leftwardly, as viewed in the FIGURE 7, so that the distance from the fold lines 56 and 68 to the end of the closure panel 24 then becomes E+D. This is illustrated in the FIGURE and will be discussed hereinafter.

In the FIGURES 8 and 9, the closure means A and the closure means B have been assembled so as to provide the greater wrap-around dimension to the carton, such as that assembled in the FIGURE 1. Portions of the containers 80have been removed so as to more thoroughly display the locking means. In this embodiment, the positions of the closure means A and the closure means B are interchanged and the projecting panel 22 is rotated about its fold line 56. As a result, the projection 58 also rotates outwardly and is now inserted in the aperture 70 and under the second projecting panel 26. The first projecting panel 22 is now returned to its original position and, at the same time, the tab 46 is inserted in the aperture 70 and rests within the second closure panel 24 at the severed line 72. The foregoing is well demonstrated in the FIG- URE 10 and it will be observed that the fold lines 56 and 68 are now superimposed so that the distance now becomes E +D, as shown.

In the FIGURE 9, the projection 58 has been inserted into the aperture 70 and upon rotation of the projecting panel 22 about its fold line 56, the projection 58 will rotate clockwise and lock itself about the projecting panel 26. Thereafter, the tab 46 is also inserted in the aperture 70 and rests within the closure panel 24 at the severed line 72. As assembled, the fold lines 56 and 68 are now superimposed so as to give the greater wrap-around dimension as best shown in the FIGURE 8.

In the FIGURE 8, the projection 58 is clearly shown locked about the projecting panel 26 and with the tab 46 spective view of the FIGURE 1, the projection 58, in V dotted outline, is locked about the projecting panel 26 so that, unlike the FIGURE 5, the fold lines 56 and 68 have been moved over one another so that the distance D is now added to the wrap-around dimension of the carton. It will be readily understood that the distance D can be varied according to the particular construction that is desired. In order to increase the distance D, it will be intuitively clear that the aperture 60 and notch 62 would be moved further away from the fold line 56 so as to provide the greater distance. Similarly, if D is to be decreased, then the similar elements would be moved closer to the fold line 56. It will be obvious to those skilled in the art that the distance D may be varied according to what may be found expedient or desired according to ones requirements.

In the FIGURES 11, 13, 15 and 17 four additional embodiments are illustrated with one of their locking engagement positions illustrated in corresponding FIG-w URES 12, 14, 16 and 18. In the FIGURES 12, 14 and 18 the greater dimension is illustrated while in the FIG- URE 16, the lesser dimension is illustrated. In each of the FIGURES 12, 14, 16 and 18, the embodiment shown for illustration is that embodiment wherein the fold lines would be separated rather than the embodiment wherein the fold lines would be superimposed.

The embodiment shown in the FIGURE 11 includes a first closure panel 82 upon which is formed an aperture 86 which extends from a transverse severed line 84 through a fold line 88 and terminates in a first projecting panel 92. The aperture is offset to the left-center of the panels 82 and 92 while a small wedge-shaped projection 90 is offset to the right and is formed by interrupting the fold line 88 so as to permit a portion of the first projecting panel 92 to terminate within the first closure panel 82. A tab 94 extends from the closure panel 92 and is joined thereto by a fold line. A salient feature of the embodiment of the FIGURE 11 is the termination of the aperture 86 beyond the fold line 88 and in the projecting panel 92. This permits a wrap-around dimension differential equal to the distance that the aperture 86 extends beyond the fold line 88.

In the discussion concerning the FIGURE 11 and subsequent figures, the numbers and identification of the elements has been minimized so as to provide better clarity. This approach is believed suflicient in that many of the severed lines, fold lines, panels, etc. are similar to those set forth in detail with reference to FIGURES 1 through 10.

While the portion of the lock shown in the upper part of the FIGURE 11 could be identified as the closure means C, the lower portion is identified as the closure means D. The closure means D includes a tab 96 extending from a second projecting panel 98 which is joined to a second closure panel 108 by an interrupted fold line 100. At one of the interruptions, a small wedge-shaped projection 102 extends from the second projecting panel 98 into and terminates within the second closure panel 108. An offset aperture 104 extends from a transverse severed line 106 in the panel 108 to and terminates at the fold line 100. Whereas the aperture 86 extends into the projecting panel 92, the aperture 104 terminates at the fold line and it is this feature which permits two difierent wrap-around dimensions of an assembled carton.

In the FIGURE 12, the assembly of the closure means C and the closure means D is illustrated which provides the greater wrap-around dimension. It will be noted that the second projecting panel 98 would be rotated upwardly into a vertical plane so that the projection 102 wou'd extend downwardly. The projection 102 is now inserted into the aperture 96 and as the projecting panel 98 is rotated downwardly, the projection 102 would lock about the panel 92. Thereafter, the tab 96 is inserted into the aperture 86 at the severed line 84 in the first closure panel 82. In this embodiment, it will be noted that the fold lines 88 and 101 are separated by a distance equal to the differential distance of the two different embodiments.

To provide the lesser wrap-around dimension, which is not shown by way of drawings but will be fllustrated by way of explanation, the projecting panel 92 would be rotated about its fold line 88 so that it is perpendicular to the first closure panel 82. As a result, the projection 90 would now extend downwardly and the projection 99 would then be inserted into the aperture 104 at the fold line 1430. As the projecting panel 92 is now rotated back to its original position, the projection 90 would lock about the second projecting panel 98 and the tab 94 would be inserted in the aperture 104 at the severed line 106. In this embodiment, the fold lines 88 and 190 would be superimposed so that the lesser wrap-around dimension of a carton is achieved.

With reference to the FIGURE 13, an embodiment is illustrated wherein a first closure panel 110 has formed therein a generally trapezoidal shaped aperture 112 and a severed line 114 forms one side of the aperture 112 and is generally transverse of the closure panel 118. A first projecting panel 120 is secured to the closure panel 111 by a fold line 118 generally about its outer extremities. The aperture 112 extends up to the fold line 118 except for a small projection 116 that is part of the projecting panel 120 and projects into the aperture area 112. A tab 122 is joined to the first projecting panel 120 by a fold line, in a conventional manner.

The closure means E, just described, cooperates with a closure means F which includes a closure panel 130 having formed therein an aperture 132, of a generally trapezoidal configuration. A severed line 134 is formed along one edge of the aperture 132 and extends slightly into the closure panel 130. A projecting panel 126 is affixed to the closure panel 130 by a fold line 128, the fold line 128 being interrupted in its central portion so as to permit a projection 137 and a projection 139 to extend from the projecting panel 126 into the aperture 132. The projections 137 and 139 form an indentation or valley 136 in the central portion of the projecting panel 126. A tab 124 is joined by a fold line to the projecting panel 126.

The manner in which the closure panel E and the closure panel F engage to form a locking means is illustrated in the FIGURE 14. In the embodiment shown, the greater wrap-around dimension is provided. In this configuration, the projecting panel 120 of the FIGURE 13 is rotated about its :fold line 118 so that the projection 116 is pointed downwardly. The projection 116 is then positioned within the valley 136 onthe projecting panel 126. Then, the projecting panel 120 is rotated back to its original position so that the projection 116 securely locks behind a ortion of the projecting panel 126. Thereafter, the tab 122 is inserted in the aperture 132 at the severed line 134 and securely locks below the panel 139 as shown in the FIGURE 14. A salient feature of this configuration, is that the rfold lines 118 and 128 are separated by a distance equal to the differential distance between the lesser and greater dimension.

To obtain the lesser or smaller wrap-around dimension, the fold lines 118 and 128 of the FIGURE 14 would be superimposed in the manner to be hereinafter described, but not shown by way of drawings. The projecting panel 126 is pivoted about its fold line 128 so that the teeth 137 and 139 project downwardly. The teeth 137 and 139 are then positioned Within the aperture 112 so that the projection 116 is locked behind the projecting panel 126 in the area of the valley 136 and the projections 137 and 139 are locked behind portions of the projecting panel 120. Thereafter, the projecting panel 126 is rotated toward its original position and the tab 124 is inserted into the aperture 112 at the severed line 114. In this manner, the lesser wrap-around dimension is provided.

Another embodiment which provides two different wraparound dimensions is shown in the FIGURE 15 and the manner in which the elements are assembled is shown in the FIGURE 16. A closure panel 138 of the FIGURE 15 has formed therein a fiap 142 which is derived as a result of severing about the outer configuration of the flap except for the fold line 140. There is joined to the flap 142 by a fold line 144 a second flap 146. The closure panel 138 is joined to a projecting panel by an interrupted fold line 148. Offset portions 152 and 152' extend from the projecting panel 150 into the closure panel 138 which results in the fold line 148 being discontinuous so that the projections 152 and 152' are formed by severing between the panels 138 and 150. Substantially in line with the flaps 142 and 146 is a moon-shaped aperture 154 wherein a severed line 156 forms one side of the aperture 154 and is substantially parallel to the fold line 148.

The closure means H includes a closure panel 164 which is joined to a projecting panel 158 by an interrupted fold line 166. The fold line 166 is interrupted so that a small wedge-shaped projection 168 can project from the projecting panel 158 into the closure panel 164. The projection 168 is severed from the closure panel 164 so that it will move with the projecting panel 158. A moon-shaped aperture 168 is formed within the projecting panel 158 and a diameter of the aperture 160 is in the form of a transverse severed line 162 which extends slightly beyond the outer extremities of the moon-shaped aperture 168. The closure panel 164 has formed therein a flap portion which includes the flaps 172 and 176 which are joined to the fold lines and 174, respectively. The flap 172 is joined to the closure panel 164 only by the fold line 170.

The manner in which the closure means G and the closure means H are assembled so as to provide the lesser wrap-around dimension is set forth in the FIGURE 16. The projecting panel 150 is rotated about its fold line 148 so that the projections 152 and 152' extend downwardly. The projections 152 and 152' are then lodged within the notches or apertures 178 and 180, respectively, so that as the projection 150 is returned to its original position, the projections 152 and 152' effect a lock behind the engaging portions of the closure panel 164. As the projecting panel 150 is returned to its original position, the flap 176 is turned upwardly into a vertical plane and is received in the aperture 154 at the severed line 156. Thus, the lesser wrap-around dimension is provided by the foregoing arrangement.

If the greater wrap-around dimension is desired, then the projecting panel 158 would be rotataed about its fold line 166 so that the projection 168 extends downwardly. The projection 168 would then be inserted into the aperture in the area of the flap 146 so that as the projecting panel 158 is returned to its original position, the projection 168 would look behind a portion of the projecting panel 150. At the same time, the flap 146 would be bent upwardly so as to be received in the aperture 161 at the severed line 162. Thus, the greater wrap-around dimension of a carton has been provided by this embodiment.

It will be noted in the FIGURE 16 that the shorter wrap-around dimension is accomplished by positioning the fold lines 148 and 166 away from each other a differential distance equal to the difference in the two wrap-around dimensions. In the embodiment to provide the greater wrap-around dimension, the fold lines 148 and 166 are superimposed.

A still further embodiment is shown in the FIGURE 17 wherein the closure means I and the closure means I include panels and apertures which may be engaged to prol 1 vide a lesser and a greater wrap-around dimension of an assembled carton. The closure means 1. includes a closure panel 182 having a substantially rectangular aperture 184 formed centrally therein. A severed line 186 extends along one side of the aperture 184 and slightly into the closure panel 182. A projecting panel 192 is joined to the closure panel 182 by an interrupted fold line 188, the fold line 188 being interrupted so as to permit a wedge-shaped projection 198 to extend from the projecting panel-192 and inwardly toward the aperture 184. A tab 194 is joined by a fold line to the projecting panel 392.

With continued reference to the FIGURE 17, the do sure means I includes a closure panel 196 having a generally trapezoidal aperture 198 formed therein. The trapezoidal aperture 198 has a severed line 204- extending transversely along one side and slightly into each of the sides to the closure panel 196. The aperture 198 is removed from a fold line 264) which joins a projecting panel 206 to the closure panel 196 so as to permit a wedgeshaped projection 202 to extend from the projecting panel 2&6 and up to the aperture 193, as shown. A tab 2% is joined by a fold line to the projecting panel 206.

Iri the FIGURE 18, the assembly of the closure means I and the closure means 3 is set forth so as to illustrate the position of the elements to achieve the lesser wraparound dimension. The projecting panel 205 is rotated about its fold line 280 so that the projection 292 extends downwardly. The projection 262 is then inserted in the aperture 184 about the projection 190 and as the projecting panel 206 is returned to its original position, the projection 2&2 locks about the projection 199. The tab 268 is then inserted in the aperture 184 at the severed line 186 so as to complete the lock. In this configuration, it will be noted that the fold lines 188 and 29:) are separated by the differential distance provided by the two configurations of an assembled carton.

To provide the greater wrap-around dimension, the fold lines 188 and 2% would be superimposed. This is accomplished in the following manner. The projecting panel 192 is rotated about its fold line 188 so that the projection 190 extends downwardly. The projection 198 is then lodged in the aperture 198 about the area of the projection 202. The projection 192 is then returned toward its original position so that the projection 190 locks behind the projection 202 and the area of the closure panel 196 adjacent the fold line 260. The tab 194 is then tucked into the aperture 198 at the severed line 204. Thus, the other wrap-around dimension has been provided.

The foregoing invention has set forth a means for providing at least two different wrap-around dimensions of an assembled carton which alleviates the necessity of providing two different blanks to accommodate different sizes of assembled cartons. It will be intuitively clear to those skilled in the art that the present invention may be embodied in other specific forms without departing from the spirit and the essential characteristics of the invention. The present embodiment is, therefore, to be considered in all respects as illustrative and the scope of the invention being indicated by the appended claims rather than the foregoing description, and all changes which come Within the meaning and range of the equivalency of the claims are, therefore, intended to be embraced therein.

What is claimed is:

1. Locking means for a carton comprising overlapping closure means, said closure means including first and second closure panels and at least one first and second projecting panels, respectively, joined thereto and adapted for selective engagement with said closure panels to provide a first locking position between said first projecting panel and said second closure panel and a second locking position between said second projecting panel and said first closure panel, said first locking position providing for one wrap-around dimension and said second locking position providing for a different wrap-around I dimension of a carton.

2. Locking means for a carton comprising overlapping closure means, said closure means including first and second closure panels and at least one first and second projecting panels, respectively, joined thereto and adapted for selective engagement with said closure panels to provide a first locking position between said first projecting panel and said second closure panel and a second locking position, between said second projecting panel and said first closure panel, said first locking position providing for one wrap-around dimension and said second locking position providing for a different wrap-around dimension of a carton, said first and second projecting panels supporting tabs while said first and second closure panels bear apertures, said tabs and apertures being engageable in either of said first and said second locking positions so as to form said locking means.

3. Locking means for a carton comprising overlapping closure means, said closure means including first and second closure panels and at least one first and second projecting panels, respectively, joined thereto and adapted for engagement to provide a first locking positionand a second locking position, said first locking position providing for one wrap-around dimension and said second locking position providing for a different wrap-around dimension, each first projecting panel being joined to said first closure panel along a fold line interrupted. by a first projection on said first projecting panel which projects into said first closure panel, a tab joined to said first projecting panel along afold line and opposite to said first projection, first apertures in said first closure panel aligned with each tab, second apertures positioned in said first closure panel generally between said first apertures and said interrupted fold line, said second projecting panel being joined'along a central fold line to said second closure panel, a severed line at each end of said central fold line defining second projections aligned with said second apertures and projecting into said second closure panel, a second tab projecting from said second panel along a fold line, a severed line in said second closure panel substantially parallel to said central fold line, a third aperture in said second closure panel extending from said central fold line to said severed line and in line with said second tab, said tabs, projecting panels, apertures and projections being interengageable in selected ones of said positions.

4. A carton blank comprising a pair of substantially identical side panels joined by intermediate panel means, and closure means having closure panels joined along the unjoined edges of said side panels, a closure panel per side panel, said closure panels having, respectively, at least one first and second projecting panels adapted to be positioned in a first locking position and a second locking position, said first locking position providing for one wrap-around dimension and said second locking position providing for another wrap-around dimension, said first and second projecting panels supporting projections and said first and second closure panels having cooperative respective apertures, said projections and apertures being selectively engageable in either said first and said second locking position so as to selectively form said blank as a carton of a selective ultimate final dimension.

5. A carton blank comprising a pair of substantially identical side panels joined by intermediate panel means and closure means having closure panels joined along the unjoined edges of said side panels, there being a closure panel per side panel, said closure panels having, respectively, at least one first and second projecting panel adapted to be positioned in a first locking position and a second locking position, said first locking position providing for one wrap-around dimension and said second locking position providing for another wrap-around dimension, said first projecting panel being joined to said first closure panel along an interrupted fold line, a first projection on said first projecting panel extending across said interrupted fold line and projecting into said first closure panel, a tab joined to said first projecting panel along a fold line and opposite to said first projection, a first aperture in said first closure panel in alignment with each tab, second apertures in said first closure panel generally between said first aperture and said interrupted fold line, and said second projecting panel being joined along a central fold line to said second closure panel, a severed line at each end of said central fold line defining second projections aligned with said second apertures and projecting into said second closure panel, a second tab projecting from said second projecting panel along a fold line, and a third aperture in said second closure panel along said fold line in line with said second tab, said panels and tabs being selectively engageable in said first and second locking positions to form a carton of a selected dimension.

6. A carton for retaining a group of containers in parallel side-by-side rows, the Wrap-around dimension of which may vary comprising a pair of substantially vertical side panels, intermediate panel means joining said side panels, and carton closure means joined along the unjoined edges of said side panels, said carton closure means including first and second closure panels, said closure panels having, respectively, at least one first and second projecting panels adapted to be positioned in a first locking position between said first projecting panel and said second closure panel and a second locking position between said second projecting panel and said first closure panel, said first locking position providing for one wrap-around dimension and said second locking position providing for another wrap-around dimension.

7. A carton for retaining a group of containers in parallel side-by-side rows, the wrap-around dimension of which may vary comprising a pair of substantially vertical side panels, intermediate panel means joining said side panels, and carton locking means joined along the unjoined edges of said side panels, said carton locking means including first and second closure panels, said closure panels having, respectively, at least one first and second projecting panels adapted to be positioned in a first locking position and a second locking position, said first locking position providing for one wrap-around dimension and said second locking position providing for another wrap-around dimension, said first and second projecting panels supporting projections and said first and second closure panels bear apertures, said first projecting panel projection and said second closure panel aperture being engageable in said first locking position and said second projecting panel projection and said first closure panel aperture being engageable in said second locking position so as to selectively effect the closure of the carton.

8. A carton for retaining a group of containers in parallel side-by-side rows, the wrap-around dimension of which containers may vary, said carton comprising a pair of substantially vertical side panels, intermediate panel means joining said side panels, and carton locking means joined along the unjoined edges of said side panels, said carton locking means including first and second closure panels, said closure panels having, respectively, at least one first and second projecting panel adapted to be positioned in a first locking position and a second locking position, said first locking position providing for one wrap-around dimension and said second locking position providing for another wrap-around dimension, said first projecting panel being joined to said first closure panel along an interrupted fold line, a projection on said first projecting panel projecting through said interrupted fold line and into said first closure panel, a tab joined to said first projecting panel along a fold line opposite to said projection, a first aperture in said first closure panel generally in alignment with said tab,

second apertures in said first closure panel generally between said first aperture and said interrupted fold line, said second projecting panel being joined along a central fold line to said second closure panel, a severed line at each end of said central fold line defining second projections aligned with said second apertures and projecting into said second closure panel, a second tab projecting from said second projecting panel along a fold line, a severed line in said second closure panel and substantially parallel to said central fold line, and a third aperture in said second closure panel extending from said central fold line to said severed line and in line with said second tab, said closure means being positionable so that said projections, tabs and apertures are selectively engageable in said first and second locking positions so as to retain containers of a selected dimension within said carton.

9. Locking means for a carton comprising overlapping closure means, said closure means including first and second closure panels and at least one first and second projecting panels, respectively, joined thereto and adapted for engagement to provide a first locking position and a second locking position, said first locking position providing for one Wrap-around dimension and said second locking position providing for a different wrap-around dimension, each first projecting panel being joined to said first closure panel along an interrupted fold line, a portion of said first projecting panel being off-centered and extending across said fold line into said first closure panel and being dilferentiated in said first closure panel by a severed line, a tab extending from said first projecting panel, a transverse severed line in said first closure panel and substantially equal in length to the longitudinal dimension of said tab and in alignment therewith, an aperture extending from said severed line to a position oppositely oil-centered to said portion of said first projecting panel, across said fold line and terminating within said first projecting panel, and said second closure panel and each second projecting panel being formed substantially identical to said first closure panel and said first projecting panel with the corresponding aperture of said second closure panel terminating at said fold line, said closure means being interlockable in either one of said locking positions.

10. The combination as defined in claim 9 wherein said first locking position is selected so that said oftcentered portion of said second projecting panel is positioned within said aperture in said first closure panel and said tab extending from said second projecting panel is inserted in said first closure panel at said severed line.

11. The combination as defined in claim 9 wherein said second locking position is selected so that said off-centered portion of said first projecting panel is positioned within said aperture in said second closure panel and said tab extending from said first projecting panel is inserted in said second closure panel at said severed line.

12. A carton blank comprising a pair of substantially identical side panels joined by intermediate panel means, closure means joined to the unjoined ends of said side panels, each of said closure means including, respectively, at least one first and second projecting panels adapted to be positioned in a first locking position and a second locking position, said first locking position providing for one Wrap-around dimension and said second locking position providing for another wrap-around dimension, each first projecting panel being joined to said first closure panel along an interrupted fold line, a portion of said first projecting panel being oil-centered and extending across said fold line into said first closure panel and being differentiated in said first closure panel by a severed line, a tab extending from said first projecting panel, a transverse severed line in said first closure panel and substantially equal in length to the longitudinal dimension of said tab and in alignment therewith, an aperture extending from said severed line to a position oppositely oil-centered to said portion of said first projecting panel, and said second closure panel and each projecting panel being formed substantially identical to said first closure panel and said first projecting panel with the corresponding aperture of said second closure panel terminating at said fold line.

13. A carton for retaining a group of containers in parallel side-byside rows, the wrap-around dimension of which container may vary, said carton comprising a pair of substantially vertical side panels, intermediate panel means joining said side panels, and carton closure means joined along the unjoined edges of said side panels, said carton closure means including a first and second closure panels, said closure panels, having, respectively, at least one first and second projecting panels adapted to be positioned in a first locking position and a second locking position said first locking position providing for onewraparound dimension and said second locking position providing for another wrap-around dimension, each first projecting panel being joined to said first closure panel along an interrupted fold line, a portion of said first projecting panel being oil-centered and extending across said fold line into said first closure panel and being differentiated in said first closure panel by a severed line, a tab extending from said first projecting panel, a transverse severed line in said first closure panel and substantially equal in length to the longitudinal dimension of said tab and in alignment therewith, an aperture extending from said severed line to a position oppositely ofi-centered to said portion of said first projecting panel, across said fold line and terminating within said first projecting panel, and said second closure panel and each projecting panel being formed substantially identical to said first closure panel and said first projecting panel with the corresponding aperture of said second closure panel terminating at said fold line, said carton closure means being interlockable in either one of said locking positions so as to retain containers of different dimensions.

14. Locking means for a carton comprising overlapping closure means, said closure means including first and second closure panels and at least one first and second projecting panels, respectively, joined thereto and adapted for engagement to provide a first locking position and a second locking position, said first locking position providing for one wrap-around dimension and said second locking position providing for a different wrap-around dimension, each of said first and second projecting panels being joined at their outer extremities by a fold line to said first and second closure panels, respectively, a tab extending from and joined by a fold line to each of said first and second projecting panels, a transverse severed line in each of said first and second closure panels and aligned with their respective tabs, an aperture extending from said severed line of said first closure panel to the general line of said fold line, a portion joined to said first projecting panel and extending into said aperture of said first closure panel, an aperture extending from said severed line of said second closure panel toward said second projecting panel but terminating short thereof, the outline of the aperture extending to said fold line in the form of a severed line, a central portion of the aperture extending into said second projecting panel in the shape of a wedge, and said closure means being interlockable in either one of said locking positions.

15. The combination as defined in claim 14, wherein in said first locking position, portions of said second projecting panel are inserted in said aperture of said first closure panel and in locking engagement about said first projecting panel and said tab of said second projecting panel is inserted into said first closure panel at said severed line.

16. The combination as defined in claim 14-, wherein in said second locking position said portion joined to said first projecting panel is inserted into said aperture of said second closure panel and in locking engagement about 15 said second projecting panel and said tab of said first projecting panelis inserted in said second closure panel at said severed line.

17. A carton blank comprising a pair of substantially identical side panels joined by intermediate panel means,

closure means joined to the unjoined ends of said side 7 panels, respectively, a tab extending from and joined by a fold line to each of said first and second projecting panels, a transverse severed line in each of said first and second closure panels and aligned with their respective tabs, an aperture extending from said severed line of said first closure panel to the general line of said fold line, a portion joined to said first projecting panel and extending into said aperture of said first closure panel, an aperture extending from said severed line of said second closur panel toward said second projecting panel but terminating short thereof, the outline of the aperture extending to said fold line in the form of a severed line, a central portion of the aperture extending into said second projecting panel in the shape of a wedge, and said closure means being interlockable in an ultimately assembled carton to provide either one of said locking positions.

18. A carton for retaining a group of containers in parallel side-by-side rows, the wrap-around dimension of which containers may vary, said carton comprising a pair of substantially vertical side panels, intermediate panel means joining said side panels, and carton closure means joined along the unjoined edges of said side panels, said carton closure means including first and second closure panels, said closure panels "having, respectively, at least one first and second projecting panels adapted to be positioned in a first locking position and a second locking position, said first locking position providing for one wrap-around dimension and said second locking position providing for another wrap-around dimension, each of said first and second projecting panels being joined at their outer extremities by a fold line to said first and second closure panels, respectively, a tab extending from and joined by a fold line to each of said first and second projecting panels, a transverse severed line in each of said first and second closure panels and aligned with their respective tabs, an aperture extending from said severed line of said first closure panel to the general line of said fold line, a portion joined to said first projecting panel and extending into said aperture of said first closure panel, an aperture extending from said severed line of said second closure toward said second projecting panel 'but terminating short thereof, the outline of the aperture extending to said fold line in the form of a severed line, a central portion of the aperture extending into said second projecting panel in the shape of a wedge, said carton closure means being interlockable in either one of said locking positions so as to retain containers of different dimensions.

19. locking means for a carton comprising overlapping closure means, said closure means including first and second closure panels and at least one first and second projecting panels, respectively, joined thereto and adapted for engagement to provide a first locking position and a second locking position, said first locking position pro-viding for one wrap-around dimension, and said second locking position providing for a different wrap-around dimension, said first projecting panel being joined to said first closure panel along a fold line with its outer extremities being offset and severed from said first closure panel 5 as to present a pair of tabs which project outwardly when said first projecting panel is rotated about its fold line, an aperture formed centrally in said first projecting panel, an aperture formed in said first closure panel and terminating at said fold line, the material within said aperture forming a flap secured to said first closure panel along a fold line substantially parallel to said fold line joining said first closure panel and said first projecting panel, said flap further being divided into a first section and a second section separated by a fold line, said second projecting panel being joined at its outer edges to said second closure panel by an interrupted fold line, a tab extending from said second projecting panel across said interrupted fold line and terminating in said second closure panel, apertures and a flap in said second projecting panel and second closure panel substantially identical to said apertures and flap in said first projecting panel and said first closure panel, except that said second closure panel aperture terminates short of said fold line, and notches formed in said second closure panel and aligned to receive said tabs of said first projecting panel.

20. The combination as defined in claim 19, wherein in said first locking position said pair of tabs of said first projecting panel are locked within said notches of said second closure panel and said flap of said second closure panel extends through said aperture of said first projecting panel.

21. The combination as defined in claim 19, wherein in said second locking position said tab of said second projecting panel is locked within said aperture of said first closure panel and said flap of said first closure panel is positioned within said aperture of said second projecting panel.

22. A carton blank comprising a pair of substantially identical side panels joined by intermediate panel means, closure means joined to the unjoined ends of said side panels, said closure means including first and second closure panels having, respectively, one or more first and second projecting panels adapted to be positioned in a first locking position and a second locking position, said first locking position providing for one wrap-around dimension and said second locking position providing for another wrap-around dimension, said first projecting panel being joined to said first closure panel along a fold line with its outer extremities being offset and severed from said first closure panel so as to present a pair of tabs which project outwardly when said first projecting panel is rotated about its fold line, an aperture formed centrally in said first projecting panel, an aperture formed in said first closure panel and terminating at said fold line, the material Within said aperture forming a flap secured to said first closure panel along a fold line substantially parallel to said fold line joining said first closure panel and said first projecting panel, said fiap further being divided into a first section and a second section separated by a fold line, said second projecting panel being joined at its outer edges to said second closure panel by an interrupted fold line, a tab extending from said second projecting panel and across said interrupted fold line and terminating in said second closure panel, apertures and a fiap formed in said second projecting panel and said second closure panel substantially identical to said apertures and fla-p in said first projecting panel and said first closure panel except that said second closure panel aperture terminates short of said fold line, and notches formed in said second closure panel and aligned to receive said tabs of said first projecting panel.

23. A carton for retaining a group of containers in parallel side-by-side rows, the wrap-around dimension of which containers may vary said carton comprising a pair of substantially vertical side panels, intermediate panel means joining said side panels, and carton closure means joined along the unjoined edges of said side panels, said carton closure means including first and second closure panels, said closure panels having, respectively, at least one first and second projecting panels adapted to be positioned in a first locking position and a second locking position, said first locking position providing for one Wraparound dimension and said second locking position providing for another wrap'around dimension, each first projecting panel being joined to said first closure panel along a fold line with its outer extremities being offset and severed from said first closure panel and presenting a pair of tabs which project outwardly when said first projecting panel is rotated about its fold line, an aperture formed centrally in said first projecting panel, an aperture formed in said first closure panel and terminating at said fold line, the material in said aperture forming a flap secured to said first closure panel along a fold line substantially parallel to said fold line joining said first closure panel and said first projecting panel, said flap further being divided into a first section and a second section separated by a fold line, said second projecting panel being joined at its outer edges to said second closure panel by an interrupted fold line, a tab extending from said second projecting panel across said interrupted fold line and terminating in said second closure panel, apertures and a flap formed in said second projecting panel and said second closure panel and substantially identical to said apertures and flap in said first projecting panel and said first closure panel except that said second closure panel aperture terminates short of said fold line, and notches formed in said second closure panel and aligned to receive said tabs of said first projecting panel, said carton closure means being interlockable in either one of said locking positions so as to retain containers of different sizes.

24. Locking means for a carton comprising overlapping closure means, said closure means including first and second closure panels and at least one first and second projecting panels, respectively, joined thereto and adapted for engagement to provide a first locking position and a second locking position, said first locking position providing for one wrap-around dimension and said second locking position providing for a different wrap-around dimension, each of said first and second projecting panels being joined at their outer extremities by an interrupted fold line to said first and second closure panels, respectively, a first wedge-shaped portion on said firs-t projecting panel formed in a portion of said first closure panel and extending across said fold line, a transverse severed line in said first closure panel positioned away from and substantially parallel to said fold line, a first aperture formed in said first closure panel between said Wedge-shaped portion and said severed line, a second wedge-shaped portion on said second projecting panel, lesser in longitudinal dimension than said first wedge-shaped portion, formed in a portion of said second closure panel and extending across said fold line, a transverse severed line in said second closure panel positioned away from and substantially parallel to said fold line, a second aperture formed in said second closure panel between said second wedgeshaped portion and said severed line, the dimension of said second aperture being greater than the longitudinal dimension of said first aperture, said closure means being interlocka'ble in either one of said locking positions.

25. The combination as defined in claim 24 wherein in said first locking position said second Wedge-shaped portion is inserted into the aperture of said first closure panel and in locking engagement about said first wedgeshaped portion, and said tab extending from said second projecting panel is inserted in said first closure panel at said severed line.

26. The combination as defined in claim 24 wherein in said second locking position said first Wedge-shaped portion is inserted in said aperture in said second closure panel and in locking position about portions of said second closure panel and said second Wedge-shaped portion,

19. and said tab extending from said first projecting panel is inserted into said second closure panel at said severed line.

27. A carton blank comprising a pair of substantially identical sidepanels joined by intermediate panel means, closure means joined to the unjoined ends of said side panels, each of said closure means including first and second closure panels having respectively, at least one first and second projecting panels adapted to be positioned in a first locking position and a second locking position, said first locking position providing for one Wrap-around dimension and said second locking position providing for another wrap-around dimension, first and second projecting panels being joined at their outer extremities by an interrupted fold line to said first and second closure panels, respectively, a tab extending from and joined by a fold line to each of said first and second projecting panels, a first wedge-shaped portion on said first projecting panel formed in a portion of said first closure panel and extending across said fold line, a transverse severed line in said first closure panel positioned away from and substantially parallel to said fold line; a first aperture formed in said first closure panel between said wedge-shaped portion and said severed line, a second wedge-shaped portion on said second projecting panel, lesser in longitudinal dimension than said first wedge-shaped portion, formed in a portion of said second closure panel and extending across said fold line, a transverse severed line in said second closure panel positioned away and substantially parallel to said fold line, a second aperture formed in said second closure panel between said second wedge-shaped portions in said severed line, the dimension of said second aperture being greater than the longitudinal dimension of said first aperture, and said closure means being interlockable in either one of said locking positions.

28. A carton for retaining a group of containers in parallel side-by-side rows, the wrap-around dimension of which containers may vary, said carton comprising a pair of substantially vertical side panels, intermediate panel means joining said side panels, and carton closure means joined along the unjoined edges of said side panels, said carton closure means including first and second closure panels, said'clos'ure panels having, respectively, at least one first and second projecting panels adapted to be positioned in a first locking position and a second locking position, said first locking position providing for one Wraparound dimension and said second locking position providing for another wrap-around dimension, each of said first and second projecting panels being joined at their outer extremities by an interrupted fold line to said first and second closure panels, respectively, a tab extending from and joined by a fold line to each of said first and second projecting panels, a first wedge-shaped portion on said first projecting panel formed in a portion of said first closure panel and extending across said fold line, a transverse severed line in said first closure panel positioned away from and substantially parallel to said fold line, a first aperture formed in said first closure panel between said wedge-shaped portion and severed line, a second Wedge-shaped portion on said second projecting panel, lesser in longitudinal dimension than said first wedge-shaped portion, for-med in a portion of said second closure panel and extending across said fold line, a transverse severed line in said second closure panel positioned away from and substantially parallel to said fold line, a second aperture formed in said second closure panel between said second wedge-shaped portion and said severed line, the longitudinal dimension of said second aperture being greater than the longitudinal dimension of said first aperture, and said carton closure means being inter lockable in either one of said locking positions for retaining containers of different dimensions.

References Cited UNITED STATES PATENTS 646,63 8 4/ 1900 Cutler. 1,194,440 8/ 1916 SWort-figuer. 2,077,694 4/ 1937 Hinton.

FOREIGN PATENTS 294,342 4/ 1965 Netherlands.

DAVIS T. MOORHEAD, Primary Examiner.

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