Abstract:
Box designs, blanks for forming boxes, boxes formed thereby, and manufacturing methods therefor are disclosed. Preferably the boxes are formed from cardboard or other corrugated material and include suspension packs for securely shipping items such as, for example and not by way of limitation, wine bottles, candles, and cell phones. Each box includes suspension panels that extend from a top panel of the lid of the box. The ends of the suspension panels are bound such that on or more items placed between the suspension panels through a top opening of the box when the lid is open are contained between the suspension panels in a suspended location above a bottom panel of the box and at spaces to the end and side panels of the box. The suspension panels may include hinges defined by perforated lines or fold lines for conforming to shapes of and thereby cradling the items.

Description:
CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION 
       [0001]    The present application is a U.S. nonprovisional patent application of, and claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. §119(e) to, U.S. provisional patent application 62/062,824, filed Oct. 10, 2014, which is incorporated by reference herein. The disclosure of the provisional patent application is contained in the Appendix, which is incorporated by reference herein. The present application further is a U.S. continuation-in-part patent application of, and claims the benefit of priority under 35 U.S.C. §120 to, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 14/881,132, filed Oct. 12, 2015, which is incorporated by reference herein, and which &#39;132 application also is a U.S. nonprovisional patent application of, and claims the benefit of priority under §119(e) to, U.S. provisional patent application 62/062,824, filed Oct. 10, 2014. 
     
    
     COPYRIGHT STATEMENT 
       [0002]    All of the material in this patent documents is subject to copyright protection under the copyright laws of the United States and other countries. The copyright owner has no objection to the facsimile reproduction by anyone of the patent document or the patent disclosure, as it appears in official governmental records but, otherwise, all other copyright rights whatsoever are reserved. 
       BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
       [0003]    The present invention generally relates to box designs, blanks for forming boxes by folding, collapsible and non-collapsible boxes formed thereby, and manufacturing methods therefor. Preferably boxes of the invention are formed from cardboard or other corrugated material and comprise suspension packs for securely shipping items such as, for example and not by way of limitation, wine bottles, candles, and cell phones. 
         [0004]    Machines and methods for making collapsible boxes from blanks are well known. Exemplary such machines and methods are disclosed, for example, in U.S. patent application publication 2012/0238423, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein. A similar technique is disclosed in Westerman U.S. Pat. No. 6,837,420. Preferred embodiments of the invention comprising collapsible shipping packs formed from folded and glued blanks preferably—but not necessarily—are manufactured using such the machines and methods as disclosed and taught in the incorporated U.S. patent application publication 2012/0238423. 
       SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
       [0005]    The present invention includes many aspects and features. Moreover, while many aspects and features relate to, and are described in, the context of shipping packs and, more particular, suspension packs for shipping items such as wine bottles, candles, and cell phones or smartphones, the present invention is not so limited and applies to other types and uses of boxes, as will become apparent from the following summaries and detailed descriptions of aspects, features, and one or more embodiments of the present invention. 
         [0006]    Accordingly, a first aspect of the invention comprises a box comprising a shipping pack as shown and described herein. 
         [0007]    Another aspect of the invention comprises an assembled box as shown and described herein. 
         [0008]    Another aspect of the invention comprises an assembled, collapsible box as shown and described. 
         [0009]    Another aspect of the invention comprises a box in the form of a blank as shown and described. 
         [0010]    Another aspect of the invention comprises a method of making any of the foregoing boxes. 
         [0011]    Another aspect of the invention comprises a method of assembling any of the foregoing boxes. In features of this aspect, machines and methods as disclosed in U.S. patent application publication 2012/0238423, incorporated by reference herein, are adapted and used to assemble one or more of the foregoing boxes disclosed herein in order to form collapsible, assembled shipping packs. Each such shipping pack generally is collapsible even though in an assembled state preferably by folding along an axis bisecting a bottom panel and opposite end panels thereof. 
         [0012]    Another aspect of the invention comprises a method of collapsing and storing any of the foregoing boxes. 
         [0013]    In another aspect of the invention, a box is formed from folding a single sheet of material having fold lines and/or lines of perforations therein. When the box is assembled, it includes suspension panels that extend into an interior of the box, each suspension panel being connected to a top panel of the box along a fold line or line of perforations, the top panel forming part of the lid of the box, and distal subpanels of the suspension panels defining distal ends thereof being bound together such that the suspension panels form a receiving space for receiving one or more articles for suspended retention thereof within the interior of the box at spacings to end, side, and bottom panels forming defining the interior of the box. 
         [0014]    In a feature, a fold line bisects each of the end panels and bottom panels and further comprising fold lines defined in the bottom panel such that the box is collapsible when in the assembled and bound stated. 
         [0015]    In another aspect, a box blank comprises: a bottom panel; a first side panel; a second side panel; a first end panel; a second end panel; a first overlapping side panel; a second overlapping side panel; a third overlapping side panel; a fourth overlapping side panel; a first top panel; a second top panel; a first suspension panel; and a second suspension panel; wherein the panels of the box blank are integrally formed as part of a generally planar single sheet of material and are defined and separated by fold lines and lines of perforations; wherein a fold line extends between and delineates the bottom panel and the first side panel, a fold line extends between and delineates the bottom panel and the second side panel, a fold line extends between and delineates the bottom panel and the first end panel, a fold line extends between and delineates the bottom panel and the second end panel, a line of perforations extends between and delineates the first top panel and the first side panel, a line of perforations extends between and delineates the second top panel and the second suspension panel; wherein each of the first suspension panel and second suspension panel is defined by a plurality of subpanels, adjacent subpanels being delineated by a fold line or line of perforations extending therebetween; and wherein, when the box blank is folded along the fold lines into an assembled box for use and is in a closed position, (i) the first suspension panel extends from the first top panel into an interior space defined by the bottom panel, first and second side panels, and first and second end panels, (ii) the second suspension panel extends from the second top panel into the interior space defined by the bottom panel, first and second side panels, and first and second end panels, and (iii) ends of the suspension panels defined by distal most subpanels are adhered to one another and form a base for supporting one or more articles received between the suspension panels, subpanels of the suspension panels forming side support areas extending over and containing the one or more articles with the interior space in a suspended position relative to the bottom panel, first and second side panels, and first and second end panels. 
         [0016]    In features, a double hinge is defined between the first top panel and the first suspension panel, and a double hinge is defined between the second top panel and the second suspension panel. A double hinge is defined by parallel lines of perforations extending in close proximity to each other; a double hinge is defined by a fold line extending in parallel and close proximity to a line of perforations; or a double hinge line is defined by parallel fold lines extending in close proximity to each other. 
         [0017]    In another aspect, a box comprises a folded and bound box blank, wherein the box blank comprises: a bottom panel; a first side panel; a second side panel; a first end panel; a second end panel; a first overlapping side panel; a second overlapping side panel; a third overlapping side panel; a fourth overlapping side panel; a first top panel; a second top panel; a first suspension panel; and a second suspension panel. The panels of the box blank are integrally formed as part of a generally planar single sheet of material and are defined and separated by fold lines and lines of perforations. Furthermore, a fold line extends between and delineates the bottom panel and the first side panel; a fold line extends between and delineates the bottom panel and the second side panel; a fold line extends between and delineates the bottom panel and the first end panel; a fold line extends between and delineates the bottom panel and the second end panel; a line of perforations extends between and delineates the first top panel and the first side panel; a line of perforations extends between and delineates the second top panel and the second suspension panel. Additionally, each of the first suspension panel and second suspension panel is defined by a plurality of subpanels, adjacent subpanels being delineated by a fold line or line of perforations extending therebetween; and when the box blank is folded along the fold lines into an assembled box for use and is in a closed position, (i) the first suspension panel extends from the first top panel into an interior space defined by the bottom panel, first and second side panels, and first and second end panels, (ii) the second suspension panel extends from the second top panel into the interior space defined by the bottom panel, first and second side panels, and first and second end panels, and (iii) ends of the suspension panels defined by distal most subpanels are adhered to one another and form a base for supporting one or more articles received between the suspension panels, subpanels of the suspension panels forming side support areas extending over and containing the one or more articles with the interior space in a suspended position relative to the bottom panel, first and second side panels, and first and second end panels. 
         [0018]    In features of this aspect, a double hinge is defined between the first top panel and the first suspension panel, and a double hinge is defined between the second top panel and the second suspension panel. 
         [0019]    In a feature, a fold line bisects each of the end panels and bottom panels and further comprising fold lines defined in the bottom panel such that the box is collapsible when in the assembled and bound stated. 
         [0020]    In a feature, the box further comprises a first overlapping panel attached to the first end panel with a fold line extending between and delineating the boundary between the first overlapping panel and the first end panel; a second overlapping panel attached to the first end panel with a fold line extending between and delineating the boundary between the second overlapping panel and the first end panel; a third overlapping panel attached to the second end panel with a fold line extending between and delineating the boundary between the third overlapping panel and the second end panel; a fourth overlapping panel attached to the second end panel with a fold line extending between and delineating the boundary between the fourth overlapping panel and the second end panel; a first side, top flap panel attached to the first overlapping panel with a fold line extending between and delineating the boundary between the first side, top flap panel and the first overlapping panel; a second side, top flap panel attached to the second overlapping panel with a fold line extending between and delineating the boundary between the second side, top flap panel and the second overlapping panel; a third side, top flap panel attached to the third overlapping panel with a fold line extending between and delineating the boundary between the third side, top flap panel and the third overlapping panel; and a fourth side, top flap panel attached to the fourth overlapping panel with a fold line extending between and delineating the boundary between the fourth side, top flap panel and the fourth overlapping panel; wherein the side, top panels extend from sides of the box in partial covering over the interior space and support the top panels in the closed position. In further possible characteristics of this feature, the box further comprises a first end, top flap panel attached to the first end panel with a fold line extending between and delineating the boundary between the first end, top flap panel and the first end panel; and a second end, top flap panel attached to the second end panel with a fold line extending between and delineating the boundary between the second end, top flap panel and the second end panel; wherein the end, top panels extend in partial covering over the interior space and support the top panels in the closed position. Furthermore, each end, top flap panel may include a fold line dividing it into first and second subpanels, wherein the suspension panels abut one of the first and second subpanels of each end, top flap panel when the box blank is folded along the fold lines into an assembled box for use and is in a closed position. 
         [0021]    In another feature of this aspect, the box further comprises a first overlapping panel attached to the first side panel with a fold line extending between and delineating the boundary between the first overlapping panel and the first side panel; a second overlapping panel attached to the second side panel with a fold line extending between and delineating the boundary between the second overlapping panel and the second side panel; a third overlapping panel attached to the first side panel with a fold line extending between and delineating the boundary between the third overlapping panel and the first side panel; a fourth overlapping panel attached to the second side panel with a fold line extending between and delineating the boundary between the fourth overlapping panel and the second side panel; a first end, top flap panel attached to the first overlapping panel with a fold line extending between and delineating the boundary between the first end, top flap panel and the first overlapping panel; a second end, top flap panel attached to the second overlapping panel with a fold line extending between and delineating the boundary between the second end, top flap panel and the second overlapping panel; a third end, top flap panel attached to the third overlapping panel with a fold line extending between and delineating the boundary between the third end, top flap panel and the third overlapping panel; and a fourth end, top flap panel attached to the fourth overlapping panel with a fold line extending between and delineating the boundary between the fourth end, top flap panel and the fourth overlapping panel; wherein the end, top panels extend from ends of the box in partial covering over the interior space and support the top panels in the closed position. In further possible characteristics of this feature, the box blank further comprises a first guide flange panel attached to the first overlapping panel with a fold line extending between and delineating the boundary between the first guide flange panel and the first overlapping panel; a second guide flange panel attached to the second overlapping panel with a fold line extending between and delineating the boundary between the second guide flange panel and the second overlapping panel; a third guide flange panel attached to the third overlapping panel with a fold line extending between and delineating the boundary between the third guide flange panel and the third overlapping panel; and a fourth guide flange panel attached to the fourth overlapping panel with a fold line extending between and delineating the boundary between the fourth guide flange panel and the fourth overlapping panel; wherein the first guide flange panel abuts the second flange panel to define a guide extending along a height of the first end panel and the third guide flange panel abuts the fourth guide flange panel to define a guide extending along a height of the second end panel; and wherein the base includes a slot on each end within which a respective said guide is received, whereby the base is guided in its descent into and ascent from the interior of the box. Preferably double hinges formed by closely located lines of perforations in the suspension panels define the slots in which the guides are received. 
         [0022]    In another feature, the box blank further comprises a removable buffer insert positioned within the interior space adjacent the first end panel and extending around and receiving through a recess therein the base formed by the suspension panels, whereby a space between one or more articles suspended in the assembled box and the first end of the box is consumed. 
         [0023]    The buffer insert may be in the shape of a folded “H”. 
         [0024]    In another feature of this aspect, the suspension panels form a “V” or “U” shaped containment area extending from the top panels for suspending articles received therein. 
         [0025]    In addition to the aforementioned aspects and features of the present invention, it should be noted that the present invention further encompasses the various possible combinations and subcombinations of such aspects and features. Thus, for example, any aspect may be combined with an aforementioned feature in accordance with the present invention without requiring any other aspect or feature. 
     
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         [0026]    One or more preferred embodiments of the present invention now will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. 
           [0027]      FIG. 1  is a schematic illustration in plan view of a preferred box blank in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the present invention. 
           [0028]      FIG. 2  is a schematic illustration in plan view of another preferred box blank that is similar to the box blank of  FIG. 1 , but in which once assembled into a box, the assembled box is nonetheless collapsible into a generally flat state in accordance with the disclosure and teaching of U.S. patent publication 2012/0238423. 
           [0029]      FIG. 3  is a schematic illustration in plan view of a preferred box blank in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the present invention. 
           [0030]      FIG. 4  is a schematic illustration of another preferred box blank that is similar to the box blank of  FIG. 3 , but in which once assembled into a box, the assembled box is nonetheless collapsible into a generally flat state in accordance with the disclosure and teaching of U.S. patent publication 2012/0238423. 
           [0031]      FIG. 5  is a schematic illustration in plan view of a preferred box blank in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the present invention. 
           [0032]      FIG. 6  is a schematic illustration in plan view of another preferred box blank that is similar to the box blank of  FIG. 5 , but in which once assembled into a box, the assembled box is nonetheless collapsible into a generally flat state in accordance with the disclosure and teaching of U.S. patent publication 2012/0238423. 
           [0033]      FIG. 7  is a schematic illustration in plan view of a preferred box blank in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the present invention. 
           [0034]      FIG. 8  is a schematic illustration in plan view of another preferred box blank that is similar to the box blank of  FIG. 7 , but in which once assembled into a box, the assembled box is nonetheless collapsible into a generally flat state in accordance with the disclosure and teaching of U.S. patent publication 2012/0238423. 
           [0035]      FIG. 9  is a schematic illustration in plan view of a blank for a buffer insert. 
           [0036]      FIG. 10  a schematic illustration in plan view of the buffer insert assembled from the blank of  FIG. 9  by folding the blank about the fold line seen in  FIG. 9 . 
           [0037]      FIG. 11  is a schematic illustration in plan view of a preferred box blank in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the present invention. 
           [0038]      FIG. 12  is a schematic illustration in plan view of another preferred box blank that is similar to the box blank of  FIG. 11 , but in which once assembled into a box, the assembled box is nonetheless collapsible into a generally flat state in accordance with the disclosure and teaching of U.S. patent publication 2012/0238423. 
           [0039]      FIG. 13  is a schematic illustration in plan view of a preferred box blank in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the present invention. 
           [0040]      FIG. 14  is a schematic illustration in plan view of another preferred box blank that is similar to the box blank of  FIG. 13 , but in which once assembled into a box, the assembled box is nonetheless collapsible into a generally flat state in accordance with the disclosure and teaching of U.S. patent publication 2012/0238423. 
       
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION 
       [0041]    As a preliminary matter, it will readily be understood by one having ordinary skill in the relevant art (“Ordinary Artisan”) that the present invention has broad utility and application. As should be understood, any embodiment may incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed aspects of the invention and may further incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed features. Furthermore, any embodiment discussed and identified as being “preferred” is considered to be part of a best mode contemplated for carrying out the present invention. Other embodiments also may be discussed for additional illustrative purposes in providing a full and enabling disclosure of the present invention. As should be understood, any embodiment may incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed aspects of the invention and may further incorporate only one or a plurality of the above-disclosed features. Moreover, many embodiments, such as adaptations, variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be implicitly disclosed by the embodiments described herein and fall within the scope of the present invention. 
         [0042]    Accordingly, while the present invention is described herein in detail in relation to one or more embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is illustrative and exemplary of the present invention, and is made merely for the purposes of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the present invention. The detailed disclosure herein of one or more embodiments is not intended, nor is to be construed, to limit the scope of patent protection afforded the present invention, which scope is to be defined by the claims and the equivalents thereof. It is not intended that the scope of patent protection afforded the present invention be defined by reading into any claim a limitation found herein that does not explicitly appear in the claim itself. 
         [0043]    Thus, for example, any sequence(s) and/or temporal order of steps of various processes or methods that are described herein are illustrative and not restrictive. Accordingly, it should be understood that, although steps of various processes or methods may be shown and described as being in a sequence or temporal order, the steps of any such processes or methods are not limited to being carried out in any particular sequence or order, absent an indication otherwise. Indeed, the steps in such processes or methods generally may be carried out in various different sequences and orders while still falling within the scope of the present invention. Accordingly, it is intended that the scope of patent protection afforded the present invention is to be defined by the appended claims rather than the description set forth herein. 
         [0044]    Additionally, it is important to note that each term used herein refers to that which the Ordinary Artisan would understand such term to mean based on the contextual use of such term herein. To the extent that the meaning of a term used herein—as understood by the Ordinary Artisan based on the contextual use of such term—differs in any way from any particular dictionary definition of such term, it is intended that the meaning of the term as understood by the Ordinary Artisan should prevail. 
         [0045]    Regarding applicability of 35 U.S.C. §112(f), no claim element is intended to be read in accordance with this statutory provision unless the explicit phrase “means for” or “step for” is actually used in such claim element, whereupon this statutory provision is intended to apply in the interpretation of such claim element. 
         [0046]    Furthermore, it is important to note that, as used herein, “a” and “an” each generally denotes “at least one,” but does not exclude a plurality unless the contextual use dictates otherwise. Thus, reference to “a picnic basket having an apple” describes “a picnic basket having at least one apple” as well as “a picnic basket having apples.” In contrast, reference to “a picnic basket having a single apple” describes “a picnic basket having only one apple.” 
         [0047]    When used herein to join a list of items, “or” denotes “at least one of the items,” but does not exclude a plurality of items of the list. Thus, reference to “a picnic basket having cheese or crackers” describes “a picnic basket having cheese without crackers”, “a picnic basket having crackers without cheese”, and “a picnic basket having both cheese and crackers.” Finally, when used herein to join a list of items, “and” denotes “all of the items of the list.” Thus, reference to “a picnic basket having cheese and crackers” describes “a picnic basket having cheese, wherein the picnic basket further has crackers,” as well as describes “a picnic basket having crackers, wherein the picnic basket further has cheese.” 
         [0048]    Additionally, as used herein, “pack” means a container and is intended to be synonymous with “package”, “box”, and “carton”. 
         [0049]    Referring now to the drawings, twelve preferred box blanks are illustrated. It will be appreciated that each blank generally includes fold lines comprising score lines or areas of reduced thickness or weakness that facilitate folding of the blank during assembly of the box; such fold lines are illustrated in the drawings by dotted lines. Each blank also generally includes perforated lines that act as hinges during bending or curving of portions of the box in implementing suspension packaging in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the present invention; such perforated lines are illustrated in the drawings by dashed lines. It further is contemplated that, within the scope of the present invention, one or more illustrated fold lines may be interchanged with one or more illustrated perforated lines, and vice-versa; however, preferred arrangements of fold lines and perforated lines are illustrated in the drawings. 
         [0050]    It also should be appreciated that boxes made from each of these blanks, and methods for making such boxes, all are considered to be preferred embodiments of boxes and methods, respectively, in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the present invention. Furthermore, in at least some preferred embodiments the boxes so formed are collapsible into a generally flat, assembled condition in accordance with the disclosure and teaching of U.S. patent publication 2012/0238423, as described in further detail below. 
       The Box Blank of FIG.  1   
       [0051]    With regard to  FIG. 1 , a first preferred embodiment of a box blank  100  in accordance with one or more aspects and features of the invention is shown in  FIG. 1  in plan view. The box blank  100  is flat in an unfolded generally planar form and can be efficiently stored until a box to be made using the blank is desired to be assembled, at which time the blank is glued and folded into the box to form an assembled state of the box. In this regard, the blank preferably is a single integral piece of corrugated material and includes a plurality of fold lines by which a box is folded from the blank, with panels and subpanels being defined between the fold lines. 
         [0052]    As shown in  FIG. 1 , the box blank  100  comprises: a rectangular bottom panel  102  located generally centrally in the layout of the blank  100 ; side panels  104 , 106 ; and end panels  108 , 110 . Fold lines extend between and define the boundaries between these panels. 
         [0053]    Specifically, a fold line extends and defines a boundary between the bottom panel  102  and side panel  104 , whereby the bottom panel  102  is connected directly to—and is separated by such fold line from—the side panel  104 ; a fold line extends and defines a boundary between the bottom panel  102  and side panel  106 , whereby the bottom panel  102  is connected directly to—and is separated by such fold line from—the side panel  106 ; a fold line extends and defines a boundary between the bottom panel  102  and end panel  108 , whereby the bottom panel  102  is connected directly to—and is separated by such fold line from—the end panel  108 ; and a fold line extends and defines a boundary between the bottom panel  102  and end panel  110 , whereby the bottom panel  102  is connected directly to—and is separated by such fold line from—the end panel  110 . 
         [0054]    Each of these panels further is generally rectangular, with the bottom panel  102  having a widthwise extent extending between the side panels  104 , 106  that generally defines the width W of the box that is assembled from the blank  100 ; and with the bottom panel  102  having a lengthwise extent extending between the end panels  108 , 110  that generally defines the length L of the box that is assembled from the blank  100 . 
         [0055]    The box blank  100  also includes top panel  112  and top panel  114 . A fold line extends and defines a boundary between the side panel  104  and the top panel  112 , whereby the side panel  104  is connected directly to—and is separated by such fold line from—the top panel  112 ; and a fold line extends and defines a boundary between the side panel  106  and the top panel  114 , whereby the side panel  106  is connected directly to—and is separated by such fold line from—the top panel  114 . It will be appreciated that when the box that is assembled from the blank  100  is in a closed configuration, top panel  112  and top panel  114  together close off a top opening of the assembled box. It thus will be appreciated that the combined widthwise extent w 1  of each of the top panels  112 , 114  will approximately equal the width W of the assembled box. 
         [0056]    The blank  100  further includes two pairs of overlapping end panels: a first pair of overlapping end panels  118 , 120 ; and a second pair of overlapping end panels  122 , 124 . A fold line extends and defines a boundary between the end panel  108  and overlapping end panel  118 , whereby the overlapping end panel  118  is connected directly to—and is separated by such fold line from—the end panel  108 ; and a fold line extends and defines a boundary between the end panel  108  and overlapping end panel  120 , whereby the overlapping end panel  120  is connected directly to—and is separated by such fold line from—the end panel  108 . Similarly, a fold line extends and defines a boundary between the end panel  110  and overlapping end panel  122 , whereby the overlapping end panel  122  is connected directly to—and is separated by such fold line from—the end panel  110 ; and a fold line extends and defines a boundary between the end panel  110  and overlapping end panel  124 , whereby the overlapping end panel  124  is connected directly to—and is separated by such fold line from—the end panel  110 . 
         [0057]    In order to maintain the box that is assembled from the blank  100  in an assembled state, adhesive preferably is applied to side panel  104  that binds side panel  104  to each of overlapping end panels  118 , 122 ; and adhesive preferably is applied to side panel  106  that binds side panel  104  to each of overlapping end panels  120 , 124 . This is indicated, for example, by glue strips  116  that have been applied to the side panels  104 , 106  as illustrated in  FIG. 1 . 
         [0058]    It further will be appreciated that each of panels  104 , 106 , 108 , 110  has an extent between opposed fold lines that defines an interior height H of the box that is assembled from the blank  100 . 
         [0059]    The blank  100  additionally includes side, top flap panels  126 , 128 , 130 , 132 . A fold line extends and defines a boundary between side, top flap panel  126  and overlapping end panel  118 , whereby the side, top flap panel  126  is connected directly to—and is separated by such fold line from—the overlapping end panel  118 ; a fold line extends and defines a boundary between side, top flap panel  128  and overlapping end panel  120 , whereby the side, top flap panel  128  is connected directly to—and is separated by such fold line from—the overlapping end panel  120 ; a fold line extends and defines a boundary between side, top flap panel  130  and overlapping end panel  122 , whereby the side, top flap panel  130  is connected directly to—and is separated by such fold line from—the overlapping end panel  122 ; and a fold line extends and defines a boundary between side, top flap panel  132  and overlapping end panel  124 , whereby the side, top flap panel  132  is connected directly to—and is separated by such fold line from—the overlapping end panel  124 . 
         [0060]    An extent between an edge of the overlapping end panel  118  and the fold line extending between side, top flap panel  126  and overlapping end panel  118  generally corresponds to the defined interior height H of the box that is assembled from the blank  100 . Similarly, an extent between an edge of the overlapping end panel  120  and the fold line extending between side, top flap panel  128  and overlapping end panel  120  generally corresponds to the defined interior height H; an extent between an edge of the overlapping end panel  122  and the fold line extending between side, top flap panel  130  and overlapping end panel  122  generally corresponds to the defined interior height H; and an extent between an edge of the overlapping end panel  124  and the fold line extending between side, top flap panel  132  and overlapping end panel  124  generally corresponds to the defined interior height H. Accordingly, when a box is assembled from the blank  100 , each of the side, top flap panels  126 , 128 , 130 , 132  extends from a top edge of the assembled box over and into an interior space of the box as defined by the bottom panel  102 ; side panels  104 , 106 ; and end panels  108 , 110 . These side, top flap panels  126 , 128 , 130 , 132  also serve to support the top panels  112 , 114  when folded over the top opening of the assembled box in closing off the opening. 
         [0061]    Similarly, the box blank  100  includes end, top flap panels  134 , 136  that also serve to support the top panels  112 , 114  when folded over the top opening of the assembled box in closing off the opening. A fold line extends and defines a boundary between end, top flap panel  134  and end panel  108 , whereby the end, top flap panel  134  is connected directly to—and is separated by such fold line from—the end panel  108 ; and a fold line extends and defines a boundary between end, top flap panel  136  and end panel  110 , whereby the end, top flap panel  136  is connected directly to—and is separated by such fold line from—the end panel  110 . 
         [0062]    It will further be seen from  FIG. 1  that end, top flap panel  134  is formed by two subpanels  138 , 140 ; and that end, top flap panel  134  is formed by two subpanels  142 , 144 . A fold line extends and defines a boundary between subpanels  138 , 140 , whereby subpanel  138  is connected directly to—and is separated by such fold line from—subpanel  140 ; and a fold line extends and defines a boundary between subpanels  142 , 144 , whereby subpanel  142  is connected directly to—and is separated by such fold line from—subpanel  144 . 
         [0063]    Blank  100  further comprises first and second suspension panels  146 , 148 . A line of perforations extends and defines a boundary between top panel  112  and suspension panel  146 , whereby suspension panel  146  is connected directly to—and is separated by such line of perforations from—top panel  112 . Suspension panel  146  is connected to top panel  112  only along such line of perforations and is not directly connected to any of the other panels, including bottom panel  102 ; side panels  104 , 106 ; end panels  108 , 110 ; top panel  114 ; overlapping panels  118 , 120 , 122 , 124 ; and flap panels  126 , 128 , 130 , 132 , 134 , 136 . 
         [0064]    Similarly, a line of perforations extends and defines a boundary between top panel  114  and suspension panel  148 , whereby suspension panel  148  is connected directly to—and is separated by such line of perforations from—top panel  114 . Suspension panel  148  is connected to top panel  114  only along such line of perforations and is not directly connected to any of the other panels, including bottom panel  102 ; side panels  104 , 106 ; end panels  108 , 110 ; top panel  112 ; overlapping panels  118 , 120 , 122 , 124 ; and flap panels  126 , 128 , 130 , 132 , 134 , 136 . 
         [0065]    Suspension panel  146  further comprises a set of additional perforated lines  150 , and suspension panel  148  further comprises a set of additional perforated lines  152 . The perforated lines  150  extend parallel to each other in a lengthwise direction, and the perforated lines  152  extend parallel to each other in a lengthwise direction. Furthermore, each perforated line preferably comprises a line of less rigidity and less resistance to bending or folding therealong compared to each of the aforementioned fold lines. 
         [0066]    The perforated lines  150  of suspension panel  146  extend and define boundaries between adjacent subpanels  154 , 156 , 158 , 160 , 162 , 164 , 166  of suspension panel  146 , whereby adjacent subpanels of the suspension panel  146  are connected directly together and are separated by one of the perforated lines  150 . Subpanel  154  is the proximal most subpanel and subpanel  168  is the distal most subpanel relative to the top panel  112 , to which suspension panel  146  is connected. At least the distal most subpanel and, in some embodiments one or more additional, consecutively adjacent subpanels of the suspension panel  146 , define a lower support area  180 . As seen in  FIG. 1 , the lower support area  180  of suspension panel  146  is defined by subpanels  162 , 164 , 166 . The other subpanels  154 , 156 , 158 , 160  of the suspension panel  146  define a side support area  182 . Furthermore, as seen in  FIG. 1 , the lengthwise extent of these other subpanels  154 , 156 , 158 , 160  defining the side support area  182  is less than the lengthwise extent of the distal subpanels  162 , 164 , 166  defining the lower support area  180 , whereby recesses  184 , 186  are defined on opposite sides of the suspension panel  146 , with recess  184  extending between the top panel  112  and the foremost distal panel  162  and recess  186  extending between the top panel  112  and the foremost distal panel  162 . Each recess is generally rectangular in profile, but other profiles are within contemplated embodiments of the invention. 
         [0067]    The depth d 1  of recess  184  preferably is less than lengthwise extent L 1  of end, top flap panel  134 , and the depth d 2  of recess  186  preferably is less than the lengthwise extent L 2  of end, top flap panel  136 , such that opposite edges of the side support area  182  engages and bends subpanels  140 , 142  causing tension between end, top flap panels  134 , 136  and top panel  112  when top panel  112  is moved into the closed position in the assembled state of the box made from blank  100 . 
         [0068]    In like manner, the perforated lines  152  of suspension panel  148  extend and define boundaries between adjacent subpanels  168 , 1 , 170 , 172 , 174 , 176 , 178  of suspension panel  148 , whereby adjacent subpanels of the suspension panel  148  are connected directly together and are separated by one of the perforated lines  150 . Subpanel  168  is the proximal most subpanel and subpanel  178  is the distal most subpanel relative to the top panel  114 , to which suspension panel  148  is connected. At least the distal most subpanel and, in some embodiments one or more additional, consecutively adjacent subpanels of the suspension panel  148 , define a lower support area  188 . As seen in  FIG. 1 , the lower support area  188  of suspension panel  148  is defined by subpanels  176 , 178 . The other subpanels  168 , 170 , 172 , 174  of the suspension panel  148  define a side support area  190 . Furthermore, as seen in  FIG. 1 , the lengthwise extent of these other subpanels  154 , 156 , 158 , 160  defining the side support area  190  is less than the lengthwise extent of the distal subpanels  168 , 170 , 172 , 174  defining the lower support area  188 , whereby recesses  192 , 194  are defined on opposite sides of the suspension panel  148 , with recess  192  extending between the top panel  114  and the foremost distal panel  178  and recess  194  extending between the top panel  114  and the foremost distal panel  176 . Each recess is generally rectangular in profile, but other profiles are within contemplated embodiments of the invention. 
         [0069]    The depth d 3  of recess  192  preferably is less than lengthwise extent L 1  of end, top flap panel  134 , and the depth d 4  of recess  194  preferably is less than the lengthwise extent L 2  of end, top flap panel  136 , such that opposite edges of the side support area  190  engages and bends subpanels  140 , 142  causing tension between end, top flap panels  134 , 136  and top panel  114  when top panel  114  is moved into the closed position in the assembled state of the box made from blank  100 . 
         [0070]    When a box is assembled from blank  100 , the distal most subpanel of suspension panel  146  is bound to the distal most subpanel of suspension panel  148 . Adhesive preferably is applied to subpanel  166  that binds the distal end of suspension panel  146  to the distal end of suspension panel  148  at subpanel  178  thereof. This is indicated, for example, by glue strips  196  that have been applied to subpanel  166  as illustrated in  FIG. 1 . 
         [0071]    A box is assembled from blank  100  by folding side panels  104 , 106  and end panels  108 , 110  upwardly relative to bottom panel  102  to form a box-like space having a top opening opposite the bottom panel  102 . In so folding, the overlapping panels  118 , 120 , 122 , 124  are extend within the box-like space in overlap to side panels  104 , 106  and are bound thereto. Additionally, the distal end of the suspension panel  146  is bound to the distal end of the suspension panel  148  and positioned within the box-like space such that the suspension panels  146 , 148  extend from the edges of the top panel  112 , 114  into the box-like space. Flap panels  126 , 128 , 130 , 132 , 134 , 136  are folded to extend over and partially cover the top opening. When used for storage and shipping, an item or article then is placed between the suspension panels  146 , 148  and the top panels  112 , 114  are closed to fully cover the top opening. The item placed between the suspension panels  146 , 148  is held in a suspended state from the top panels within the box-like space without being directly held to or in abutment against the bottom panel  102 , side panels  104 , 106 , or end panels  108 , 110 . Such suspension of the article from the top panels at spaced distances to the bottom, side panels, and end panels is believed to insulate and protect the article within the assembled and closed box during storage and shipment. 
         [0072]    It further will be appreciated that the greater the number of lines of perforation formed in the side support areas of the suspension panels, the better the suspension panels will conform to the sides of the article suspended within the box. In this regard, the suspension panels  146 , 148  of the blank  100  of  FIG. 1  each includes three intermediate and two boundary lines of perforations enabling the side support areas  182 , 188  to conform to the shape of a bottle (such as a wine bottle) for storage and shipping. 
         [0073]    Additionally, the suspension panel  146  includes two intermediate lines of perforations and one boundary line of perforations (which is shared with the side support area  182 ), and the suspension panel  148  includes one intermediate line of perforations and one boundary line of perforations (which is shared with the side support area  190 ). These lines of perforations in the lower support areas  180 , 188  enable one the lower support areas to overlap one another and form a base for supporting thereon an underside of the suspended article. 
       The Box Blank of FIG.  2   
       [0074]    The box blank  101  of  FIG. 2  is substantially similar to the box blank  100  of  FIG. 1 , with the exception that two sets  103  of additional fold lines are formed at opposite ends of the bottom panel and an additional fold line  105  bisects the end, top flap panels; the end panels; and the bottom panel. These additional fold lines  103 , 105  enable a box assembled from the box blank  101  to be collapsed while in the assembled condition—the use of such fold lines being a technique disclosed and taught, for example, in incorporated U.S. patent publication 2012/0238423. 
       The Box Blank of FIG.  3   
       [0075]    The box blank  200  of  FIG. 3  is similar to the box blank  100  of  FIG. 1 , with the above detailed description of the box blank of  FIG. 1  generally applying to the box lank  200  of  FIG. 3 , as will be apparent from comparison and consideration of  FIGS. 1 and 3 . Accordingly, the following description will focus on differences in the box blank  200  over the box blank  100 . 
         [0076]    The box blank  200  includes the same types and layout of panels and primarily differs over the box blank  100  in edge profiles. In particular, the side support areas  282 , 290  of the suspension panels  246 , 248  include curved edge profiles unlike the straight edge profiles of the side support areas  182 , 190 . The end, top flap panels  234 , 236  also have curved corners unlike the generally orthogonal corners of the end, top flap panels  134 , 136 . The distal subpanels of the suspension panels  246 , 248  in the lower support area  280 , 288  also have different lengths and edge profiles so as to define a different base profile on which a suspended article is supported. An intermediate fold line also is included in the lower support area  288  of the suspension panel  248 , in addition to an intermediate line of perforations; no corresponding fold line is shown in the lower support area  188  of the suspension panel  148  of blank  100 . 
       The Box Blank of FIG.  4   
       [0077]    The box blank  201  of  FIG. 4  is substantially similar to the box blank  200  of  FIG. 3 , with the exception that two sets  203  of additional fold lines are formed at opposite ends of the bottom panel and an additional fold line  205  bisects the end, top flap panels; the end panels; and the bottom panel. These additional fold lines  203 , 205  enable a box assembled from the box blank  201  to be collapsed while in the assembled condition—the use of such fold lines being a technique disclosed and taught, for example, in incorporated U.S. patent publication 2012/0238423. 
       Suspension Packaging and Storage, Shipping, and Transport of Wine Bottles 
       [0078]    Boxes assembled from the box blanks  100 , 101 , 200 , 201  can be used to store, ship and transport wine bottles and similarly shaped, fragile items. In this regard, dimensions for use in packing wine bottles are disclosed in the priority provisional application incorporated herein by reference, the disclosure of which is found in the Appendix hereto, also incorporated herein by reference. As seen in FIG. 1 of the Appendix, an exemplary box blank for assembling a box in which a wine bottle is suspended for storing, shipping, and transport has an overall dimension along the length of the assembled box of about 25.5 inches and overall dimension along the width of the assembled box of about 30.75 inches. Pictures of an exemplary box in which a wine bottle is suspended for storing, shipping, and transport are found in FIGS. 2-18 of the Appendix. 
       The Box Blank of FIG.  5   
       [0079]    The box blank  300  of  FIG. 5  is similar to the box blank  100  of  FIG. 1 , with the above detailed description of the box blank of  FIG. 1  generally applying to this additional box blank as will be apparent from comparison and consideration of the drawings. Accordingly, the following description will focus on differences in the box blank  300  over the box blank  100 . 
         [0080]    The box blank  300  includes the same types and layout of panels as those of box blank  100  and primarily differs over the box blank  100  in the configuration of the suspension panels  346 , 348 . In particular, the side support areas  382 , 390  of the suspension panels  346 , 348  are offset in the direction of the side of the blank that includes end panel  308 , as seen in  FIG. 5 . Thus, the depth of the recess  384  is less than the depth of the recess  386 , and the depth of the recess  392  is less than the depth of the recess  394 , resulting in less interior space in a box assembled from this blank  300  between the suspension panels  346 , 348  and end panel  308  than that on the opposite side between the suspension panels  346 , 348  and end panel  310 . The suspension panel  346  also includes closely spaced together lines of perforations forming a double hinge  397  at its connection to top panel  312 , and suspension panel  348  includes closely spaced together lines of perforations forming a double hinge  399  at its connection to top panel  314 . 
       The Box Blank of FIG.  6   
       [0081]    The box blank  301  of  FIG. 6  is substantially similar to the box blank  300  of  FIG. 5 , with the exception that two sets  303  of additional fold lines are formed at opposite ends of the bottom panel and an additional fold line  305  bisects the end, top flap panels; the end panels; and the bottom panel. These additional fold lines  303 , 305  enable a box assembled from the box blank  301  to be collapsed while in the assembled condition—the use of such fold lines being a technique disclosed and taught, for example, in incorporated U.S. patent publication 2012/0238423. 
       The Box Blank of FIG.  7   
       [0082]    The box blank  400  of  FIG. 7  is similar to the box blank  100  of  FIG. 1 , with the above detailed description of the box blank of  FIG. 1  generally applying to this additional box blank as will be apparent from comparison and consideration of the drawings. Accordingly, the following description will focus on differences in the box blank  400  over the box blank  100 . 
         [0083]    The box blank  400  includes the same types and layout of panels as those of box blank  100  with the exception of side, top flap panels which are omitted from the box blank  400 . Thus box blank  400  does not include panels corresponding to panels  126 , 128 , 130 , 132  found in the box blank  100  of  FIG. 1 . The edge profile of the end, top flap panels  434 , 436  is also trapezoidal rather than rectangular as seen in the edge profile of the end, top flap panels  134 , 136 . The end, top flat panels of the blank  400  also do not each include a fold line defining two subpanels as found in the blank  100  of  FIG. 1 . The base formed by the lower support areas of the suspension panels also has a lesser extent d in a widthwise direction; and the side support areas of the suspension panels are greater in width than the width of the side support panels seen in the blank  100 . The overall length of the box L when assembled from the blank  400  also is smaller, and the lower support area of the suspension panel  448  includes neither an intermediate fold line nor intermediate line of perforations facilitating bending or folding of the portion of the base formed thereby. 
       The Box Blank of FIG.  8   
       [0084]    The box blank  401  of  FIG. 8  is substantially similar to the box blank  400  of  FIG. 7 , with the exception that two sets  403  of additional fold lines are formed at opposite ends of the bottom panel and an additional fold line  405  bisects the end, top flap panels; the end panels; and the bottom panel. These additional fold lines  403 , 405  enable a box assembled from the box blank  401  to be collapsed while in the assembled condition—the use of such fold lines being a technique disclosed and taught, for example, in incorporated U.S. patent publication 2012/0238423. 
       Separate Buffer Inserts 
       [0085]    In at least some embodiments, separate buffer inserts are used in connection with an assembled box for supporting a suspended article. In this respect,  FIG. 9  is a schematic illustration in plan view of a blank  900  for a buffer insert, and  FIG. 10  a schematic illustration of a buffer insert  902  assembled from the blank  900  of  FIG. 9  by folding the blank about the fold line  904  seen in  FIG. 9 . Preferably two buffer inserts  902  are used with a suspended article in a box that is assembled, for example, from either blank  400  or blank  401 . Each buffer insert preferably is used by positioning it adjacent an end panel with recess  906  extending around and receiving therethrough the base formed by the suspension panels. Further in this respect, a widthwise dimension d of the recess  906  is sufficient to receive the base of the suspension panels therethrough. The buffer inserts thereby are used to fill the space between one or more articles suspended in the assembled box and the ends of the box. This arrangement is perhaps best seen in the photograph of FIGS. 38-44 of the Appendix. 
       Suspension Packaging and Storage, Shipping, and Transport of Candles 
       [0086]    Boxes assembled from the box blanks  300 , 301 , 400 , 401  can be used to store, ship and transport candles and similarly shaped, fragile items. In this regard, dimensions for use in packing candles are disclosed in the priority provisional application incorporated herein by reference, the disclosure of which is found in the Appendix hereto, also incorporated herein by reference. As seen in FIG. 19 of the Appendix, an exemplary box blank for assembling a box in which two candles are suspended together for storing, shipping, and transport has an overall dimension along a length of the assembled box of about 20.25 inches and overall dimension along a width of the assembled box of about 30.75 inches. Pictures of an exemplary box in which two candles are suspended for storing, shipping, and transport are found in FIGS. 20-46 of the Appendix. 
       The Box Blank of FIG.  11   
       [0087]    The box blank  500  of  FIG. 11  is similar to the box blank  100  of  FIG. 1 , with the above detailed description of the box blank of  FIG. 1  generally applying to this additional box blank as will be apparent from comparison and consideration of the drawings. Accordingly, the following description will focus on differences in the box blank  500  over the box blank  100 . 
         [0088]    The box blank  500  includes the same types and layout of panels as those of box blank  100  with the exception that end, top flat panels  534 , 536  of the blank  500  do not each include a fold line defining two subpanels as found in the blank  100  of  FIG. 1 . The base formed by the lower support areas of the suspension panels also has a greater extent d in a widthwise direction that that in the blank  100 ; and the side support areas of the suspension panels are lesser in width than the width of the side support panels seen in the blank  100 . The overall length of the box L when assembled from the blank  500  also is smaller. The suspension panels are also connected to the side panels by double hinge comprising a line of perforations and a fold line located very close together, as indicated in  FIG. 11  at  597 , 599 . 
       The Box Blank of FIG.  12   
       [0089]    The box blank  501  of  FIG. 12  is substantially similar to the box blank  500  of  FIG. 11 , with the exception that two sets  503  of additional fold lines are formed at opposite ends of the bottom panel and an additional fold line  505  bisects the end, top flap panels; the end panels; and the bottom panel. These additional fold lines  503 , 505  enable a box assembled from the box blank  501  to be collapsed while in the assembled condition—the use of such fold lines being a technique disclosed and taught, for example, in incorporated U.S. patent publication 2012/0238423. 
       The Box Blank of FIG.  13   
       [0090]    The box blank  600  of  FIG. 13  is similar to the box blank  100  of  FIG. 1 , with the above detailed description of the box blank of  FIG. 1  generally applying to this additional box blank as will be apparent from comparison and consideration of the drawings. Accordingly, the following description will focus on differences in the box blank  600  over the box blank  100 . 
         [0091]    The box blank  600  includes mostly the same types and layout of panels as those of box blank  100  with the exception of the omission in the box blank  600  of overlapping end panels and flap panels. Thus box blank  600  does not include panels corresponding to panels  118 , 120 , 122 , 124 , 126 , 128 , 130 , 132 , 134 , 136  found in the box blank  100  of  FIG. 1 . Instead, overlapping side panels  618 , 620 , 622 , 624  with side, top flap panels  626 , 628 , 630 , 632  are provided, with the overlapping side panels being connected to side panels along a fold line, and the end, top flap panels being connected to the overlapping panels. 
         [0092]    The box blank  600  further includes guide flange panels  623 , 625 , 627 , 629  connected along respective fold lines to the overlapping side panels as seen in  FIG. 13 . When assembled, guide flange panels  623 , 625  abut one another to define a guide extending along a height of an end panel, and guide flange panels  627 , 629  abut one another to define a guide extending along a height of an opposite end panel. The assembled box is maintained in this configuration by binding the overlapping panels to the end panels. This can be done by adhering the overlapping panels to the end panels using glue strips, for example, as illustrated in  FIG. 13 . Furthermore, when formed by binding the lower support areas of the suspension panels together, the base includes a slot on each end within which a guide is received, whereby the base is guided in its descent into and ascent from the interior of the box. The slots are facilitated by use of double hinges formed by closely located lines of perforations in the lower support areas of the suspension panels, as shown in  FIG. 13 . This is perhaps best seen, for example, in the photographs of FIGS. 54-59 of the Appendix. 
       The Box Blank of FIG.  14   
       [0093]    The box blank  601  of  FIG. 14  is substantially similar to the box blank  600  of  FIG. 11 , with the exception that two sets  603  of additional fold lines are formed at opposite ends of the bottom panel and an additional fold line  605  bisects the end panels and the bottom panel. These additional fold lines  603 , 605  enable a box assembled from the box blank  601  to be collapsed while in the assembled condition—the use of such fold lines being a technique disclosed and taught, for example, in incorporated U.S. patent publication 2012/0238423. 
       Suspension Packaging and Storage, Shipping, and Transport of Smartphones 
       [0094]    Boxes assembled from the box blanks  500 , 501 , 600 , 601  can be used to store, ship and transport smartphones and similarly shaped, fragile items. In this regard, dimensions for use in smartphones are disclosed in the priority provisional application incorporated herein by reference, the disclosure of which is found in the Appendix hereto, also incorporated herein by reference. As seen in FIG. 47 of the Appendix, an exemplary box blank for assembling a box in which a smartphone may be suspended for storing, shipping, and transport has an overall dimension along the width of the assembled box of about 4.625 inches and overall dimension along the length of the assembled box of approximately 8 or 9 inches. Pictures of an exemplary box in which a article approximating the size of a small smartphone is suspended for storing, shipping, and transport are found in FIGS. 48-66 of the Appendix. 
         [0095]    Based on the foregoing description, it will be readily understood by those persons skilled in the art that the present invention is susceptible of broad utility and application. Many embodiments and adaptations of the present invention other than those specifically described herein, as well as many variations, modifications, and equivalent arrangements, will be apparent from or reasonably suggested by the present invention and the foregoing descriptions thereof, without departing from the substance or scope of the present invention. Accordingly, while the present invention has been described herein in detail in relation to one or more preferred embodiments, it is to be understood that this disclosure is only illustrative and exemplary of the present invention and is made merely for the purpose of providing a full and enabling disclosure of the invention. The foregoing disclosure is not intended to be construed to limit the present invention or otherwise exclude any such other embodiments, adaptations, variations, modifications or equivalent arrangements, the present invention being limited only by the claims appended hereto and equivalents thereof.