Patent Publication Number: US-2011048993-A1

Title: Blank for Forming a Carton and a Method of Inserting Empty Hollow Cores Back into the Carton

Description:
FIELD OF THE INVENTION 
     This invention relates to a blank capable of forming a carton and a method of inserting empty hollow cores back into the carton. More particularly, this invention relates to a paperboard carton capable of housing a plurality of roll products, such as rolls of paper towels, rolls of toilet paper, rolls of dry wipes, etc., which are wound onto a hollow core formed from cellulosic fibers, and recycling the empty hollow cores back into the carton. 
     BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 
     Today, many consumers desire to purchase products that utilize recycled materials and additionally can be recycled so as to benefit the environment. Some paper products, especially paper towel and toilet paper are manufactured from cellulose fibers that have been recovered and recycled and this is considered a superior and much more sustainable approach to disposable paper product manufacturing utilizing virgin wood (cellulose) fibers. However, up until now, it has been difficult to recycle the materials used to package and dispense these disposable paper products. Most paper towels and toilet paper is wound onto a hollow, paper or cardboard core during manufacture for easy dispensing. These products are typically referred to as roll products and have a generally cylindrical shape and contain multiple sheets of paper towels or toilet paper. A plurality of these roll products is then typically wrapped in plastic in multiples of 4, 6, 8, 12, 24 rolls and then packed into corrugated fiberboard cartons for easy shipment to a retailer for ultimate sale to consumers. 
     It has been found that the plastic wrap or sheeting used to form the commonly used wrappers cannot be easily collected and recycled. Therefore, this plastic wrap is often discarded and eventually the plastic wrap is landfilled where it is slow to break down. Even in communities where consumers take the extra time to collect and recycle the plastic film, it is difficult for some recyclers to know the specific plastic from which the wrap was produced and therefore it may still be difficult to properly segregated and successfully recycled the plastic wrap. In addition, consumers who wish to recycle the plastic wrap and the empty paper cores must first separate the paper or cellulosic based hollow cores from the plastic wrap during the recycling process. For this reason, many consumers who desire green (recyclable/sustainable) products wish to purchase paper towels and toilet paper in paper-based (paperboard) packaging/cartons. At present, there is no known commercial use of a paperboard carton to house, transport and display (retail applications) disposable paper products such as paper towel and bathroom tissue. 
     There are commercially available paperboard cartons for use with other kinds of cylindrical shaped products, i.e. aluminum cans. However, such paperboard cartons do not contain a separate opening to allow for the recapture of recyclable materials. One drawback with the existing plastic packaging for kitchen roll towels or bathroom tissue is that, up until now, there was no easy way to recycle the empty hollow cores and/or the removable panel covering the dispensing opening back into the carton once the sheets of paper towels or sheets of toilet paper were removed from the hollow cores. Many consumers were forced to discard the empty hollow cores and the removable cover panels in their garbage receptacles. By providing an easy to use recycling alternative, the consumer will now be able to dispose of the empty hollow cores and the removable cover panels and recycle them along with the original paperboard carton. No further segregation of materials is required. 
     Now a blank capable of forming a paperboard carton having a dispensing opening and an empty hollow core insertion opening has been invented. The blank is capable of being formed into a carton capable of holding a plurality of roll products. The carton has a specific opening into which empty hollow cores can be inserted back into the carton once the cellulosic product has been removed there from. In addition, a method of inserting the hollow cores back into the carton is also disclosed. 
     SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION 
     Briefly, this invention relates to a blank for forming a carton having more than one opening to facilitate both the dispensing of carton contents as well as to recapture recyclable materials that are currently most often discarded. The blank includes an adhesive tab and a back panel located adjacent to the adhesive tab. The back panel has a top and a bottom. The blank also has a first vertical fold line positioned between the adhesive tab and the back panel. The blank further has a top panel located adjacent to the back panel. The top panel has a top and a bottom. The blank also has a second vertical fold line positioned between the back panel and the top panel. The blank further has a front panel located adjacent to the top panel. The front panel has a top and a bottom. The blank also has a third vertical fold line positioned between the top panel and the front panel. The blank further has a bottom panel located adjacent to the front panel. The bottom panel has a top and a bottom. The blank also has a fourth vertical fold line positioned between the front panel and the bottom panel. The blank also has a back panel top flap located adjacent to the top of the back panel, a back panel bottom flap located adjacent to the bottom of the back panel, a top panel top flap located adjacent to the top of the top panel, a top panel bottom flap located adjacent to the bottom of the top panel, a front panel top flap located adjacent to the top of the front panel, a front panel bottom flap located adjacent to the bottom of the front panel, a bottom panel top flap located adjacent to the top of the bottom panel, and a bottom panel bottom flap located adjacent to the bottom of the bottom panel. 
     The blank further has a first horizontal fold line disposed between the back panel and the back panel top flap, between the top panel and the top panel top flap, between the front panel and the front panel top flap, and between the bottom panel and the bottom panel top flap. The blank further has a second horizontal fold line disposed between the back panel and the back panel bottom flap, between the top panel and the top panel bottom flap, between the front panel and the front panel bottom flap, and between the bottom panel and the bottom panel bottom flap. The blank still further includes a first tear panel formed in the front panel and having a pair of portions which extends partially into the top panel and the bottom panel, and when the first tear panel is removed a first opening is formed into the carton formed from the blank. The blank still further includes a pair of second tear panels that can be opened to allow recapture of the recyclable core materials and the previously removed roll-dispensing tear panel. 
     This invention also relates to a carton formed from cellulose fibers and having a pair of openings for dispensing and re-insertion of recyclable materials formed therein. The carton is capable of housing a plurality of generally cylindrically shaped products formed from cellulose fibers. Each of the products is wound upon a hollow core formed from cellulose fibers and having a common diameter. The carton includes a top panel, a bottom panel aligned opposite to the top panel, a pair of end walls each being located between the top and bottom panels, and a front panel and a back panel each being located between the top panel and the bottom panel and adjacent to each of the pair of end walls. The carton also has a first tear panel formed in one of the pair of end walls and having a pair of portions which extend partially into the back panel and partially into the front panel. The first tear panel defines a first opening when removed which provides access to at least one of the roll products housed within the carton. The carton further has a second tear panel formed in the back panel. The second tear panel has a diameter at least equal to the common diameter of each of the hollow cores. When the second tear panel is removed, an empty hollow core insertion opening is formed into the carton which allows a empty hollow core to be inserted back into the carton once one or more of the products has been removed from the carton. 
     Still further, this invention relates to a method of recycling hollow cores formed from cellulose fibers which are housed in a carton formed from cellulose fibers. Each of the hollow cores has a roll product formed from cellulose fibers wound upon it. The method includes the steps of inserting a plurality of the roll products, each having a hollow core, into the carton and sealing the carton. The carton has a top panel, a bottom panel aligned opposite to the top panel, a pair of end walls each being located between the top panel and the bottom panel, a front panel and a back panel each being located between the top panel and the bottom panel and adjacent to each of the pair of end walls. The carton also has a first tear panel formed in one of the pair of end walls and has a pair of portions which extend partially into the back panel and partially into the front panel. When the first tear panel is removed, a dispensing opening is formed into the carton which provides access to at least one of the products housed within the carton. The carton also has a second tear panel formed in one of the front and back panels. The second tear panel has a diameter at least equal to the common diameter of each of the hollow cores. When the second tear panel is removed, an empty hollow core insertion opening is formed into the carton which allows an empty hollow core to be inserted back into the carton once one of the products has been removed from the carton. 
     The method also includes removing the first tear panel to obtain a dispensing opening into the carton. The second tear panel is also removed to obtain an insertion opening. The method further includes removing at least one of the products from the carton and removing, such as by using the product, the product wound upon the hollow core to obtain an empty hollow core. This empty hollow core is then inserted back into the carton through the insertion opening. 
     The general object of this invention is to provide a blank capable of forming a carton and a method of recycling hollow cores and tear panels back into the original carton. A more specific object of this invention is to provide a paperboard carton capable of housing a plurality of roll products, such as rolls of paper towels or rolls of toilet paper, which are wound onto a hollow core formed from cellulose fibers, and recycling the hollow cores back into the original carton. 
     Another object of this invention is to provide a dispensing opening of a size and shape that will allow a consumer to easily grasp a roll product approximate its opposite ends and remove the roll product from the carton. 
     Another object of this invention is to provide a paperboard carton capable of housing a plurality of generally cylindrically shaped roll products and having an easy to open flap that is recloseable and which can be opened so that a potential consumer can reach in with his or her fingers and feel the product prior to purchase of the paperboard carton. 
     A further object of this invention is to provide a paperboard carton capable of housing a plurality of generally cylindrically shaped roll products each wound onto a hollow core formed from paper or cardboard, and providing an opening through which the hollow cores can be inserted back into the original carton so that both can be recycled together. 
     Still another object of this invention is to provide a method for recycling hollow cores formed from cellulose fibers which are housed in a carton formed from cellulose fibers. 
     Still further, an object of this invention is to provide a method for inserting an empty hollow core back into the original carton once the first roll product is removed from the carton. 
     Still further, an object of this invention is to provide a method for recycling the carton having at least one empty hollow core positioned therein. 
     Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent to those skilled in the art in view of the following description and the accompanying drawings. 
    
    
     
       BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS 
         FIG. 1  is a top view of a blank formed from cellulosic fibers into a paper, paperboard or cardboard blank that can be configured into a carton. 
         FIG. 2  is a partial view of an embodiment of a blank wherein the four bottom flaps are designed to automatically intermesh as a blank is assembled into a sleeve forming a closed end wall. 
         FIG. 3  is a perspective view of a carton formed from the blank shown in  FIG. 1 . 
         FIG. 4  is another perspective view of the carton formed from the blank shown in  FIG. 1  showing the opposite end of the carton and having the first tear panel removed to reveal the dispensing opening and the second tear panel removed to reveal the empty hollow core insertion opening. 
         FIG. 5  is an end view of a carton having a self forming end wall formed from the blank shown in  FIG. 2 . 
         FIG. 6  is a plane view of the front panel showing another empty hollow core insertion opening. 
         FIG. 7  is a plane view of the back panel partially broken away to reveal twelve roll products housed in the carton. 
         FIG. 8  is a perspective view of a roll product wound upon a hollow core. 
         FIG. 9  is a perspective view of an empty hollow core after the roll product has been removed. 
         FIG. 10  is an enlarged top view of a fourth tear panel which covers a viewing opening and having a finger opening formed therein. 
         FIG. 11  is a cross-sectional view of the fourth tear panel after the finger opening flap has been pushed downward and the third tear panel has been removed from the top panel of the carton. 
         FIG. 12  is a top view of the carton shown in  FIG. 1  showing a viewing opening and a handle opening. 
         FIG. 13  is a front view of a plurality of cartons stacked on a cardboard pallet and held in position by four L-shaped corner posts and a top cap. 
         FIG. 14  is a perspective view of an L-shaped corner post. 
         FIG. 15  is a view of an easy to open flap that is recloseable over a reach in window. 
         FIG. 16  is a partial cross-sectional view taken along line  16 - 16  showing the easy to open flap. 
         FIG. 17  is a partial cross-sectional view showing an alternative embodiment of the flap covered by a recloseable label. 
         FIG. 18  is an end view of the carton depicting another embodiment containing a partially separable flap and showing a first portion before it is sealed by an adhesive to an oppositely aligned second portion, and the partially separable flap capable of being separated from the first portion and being rotated to an open position so that a consumer can reach into the carton and physically feel the roll product and then the partially separable flap can be securely closed by tucking its free end into a slit formed in the second portion. 
         FIG. 19  is an end view of the carton shown in  FIG. 18  when the end wall is closed. 
         FIG. 20  is an end view of the carton shown in  FIG. 19  when the partially separable flap is rotated to its open position revealing at least one of the roll products contained in the carton. 
         FIG. 21  is an end view of the carton shown in  FIG. 20  when the partially separable flap is rotated back against the end wall and its free end is tucked into a slit formed in the second portion. 
         FIG. 22  is a flow diagram of a method of inserting an empty hollow core back into the carton. 
     
    
    
     DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1-4 , a blank  10  and  10 ′ are shown each of which can be assembled into a carton  12 , see  FIGS. 3 and 4 . The blanks  10  and  10 ′ can be formed from any cellulosic material. One or more different cellulosic fibers can be used to construct the cellulosic material. The cellulosic material can be paper, paperboard, cardboard or the like which is constructed from a plurality of cellulosic fibers. Desirably, the blank  10  is formed from paperboard. The material forming the blank  10  can be easily recycled or composted. 
     In  FIG. 2 , the blank  10 ′ has four bottom flaps that are designed to automatically intermesh as the blank  10 ′ is assembled into a sleeve forming a closed end wall. 
     Each of the blanks  10  and  10 ′ can be a generally rectangular or elongated member having a longitudinal central axis X-X and a transverse central axis Y-Y. The thickness of each of the blanks  10  and  10 ′, measured perpendicular to the X-X and Y-Y axes, can vary. Each of the blanks  10  and  10 ′ can consist of one or more layers secured together. When two or more layers are present, each layer can have a similar or a different thickness. Desirably, when two or more layers are present, they are secured together such as by an adhesive. Alternatively, the two or more layers can be secured together by using heat, pressure, heat and pressure or by other mechanisms known to those skilled in the art. The one or more layers forming the blanks  10  or  10 ′ can be flat or planar layers or at least one of the layers can be corrugated or have some other configuration that adds thickness to the blanks  10  or  10 ′. Each of the blanks  10  and  10 ′ is relatively thin. Each of the blanks  10  and  10 ′ can have a thickness of less than about 0.2 inches. Desirably, each of the blanks  10  and  10 ′ has a thickness of less than about 0.1 inches. More desirably, each of the blanks  10  and  10 ′ has a thickness of less than about 0.05 inches. Even more desirably, each of the blanks  10  and  10 ′ has a thickness of less than about 0.03 inches. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1-4 , once the blank  10  or  10 ′ is formed to a predetermined shape, it can be easily configured, folded, constructed, assembled or transformed into the carton  12 . The blank  10  or  10 ′ can contain one or more fold lines, score lines, crease lines, adhesive lines, etc. to facilitate folding and bending various portions and/or sealing or interlocking various portions together. The various portions of the blank  10  or  10 ′ can be folded, bent over, doubled up, joined, taped, interlocked and/or be sealed or bonded together to form the carton  12 . Desirably, the blank  10  or  10 ′ is configured such that it can be folded at several locations upon itself and be sealed or bonded at least one location to form the carton  12 . Adhesive or glue is normally used to seal the carton  12 . 
     The carton  12  formed from the blank  10  or  10 ′ has a longitudinal central axis X-X, a transverse central axis Y-Y, and a vertical central axis Z-Z. The carton  12  can vary in size and shape. Desirably, the carton  12  is a rectangular cube having six sides with at least two of the sides having a rectangular face. Alternatively, the carton  12  can be a cube having six congruent square faces. Still another alternative is to form a carton having more than six faces, such as a hexagon shape, along with a top and a bottom. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 4 ,  7  and  8 , the carton  12  can be sized to house or retain a plurality of roll products  14 . The roll products  14  are generally cylindrically shaped products formed from cellulosic fibers. The roll products  14  can be formed with eco-friendly features. For example, the roll products  14  can be made from recycled cellulose fibers. The roll products  14  can be made hypoallergenic. The roll products  14  can be made with no added dyes or fragrances and can even be whitened without using chlorine. Such roll products  14  can be rolls of paper tissue, rolls of toilet paper or rolls of some other kind of paper product. Desirably, the roll products  14  are rolls of toilet paper or toilet tissue. The size and shape of the roll products  14  can vary. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 8 and 9 , each of the roll products  14  has a longitudinal central axis X 1 -X 1  and a transverse central axis Y 1 -Y 1 . Each of the roll products  14  is an elongated rectangular sheet containing multiple weakened lines (not shown) where it can be easily and cleanly separated from the remaining sheet. The weakened lines can be in the form of score lines, perforation lines, tear lines, etc. The elongated sheet is radially wound onto a hollow core  16  to form a roll product  14 , see  FIG. 8 . The roll product  14  has a height h and an outside diameter d. The height h and the diameter d can vary. For a typical roll of toilet paper  14 , the height h can range from between about 3.5 inches to about 5 inches. Desirably, the height h can range from between about 3.75 inches to about 4.5 inches. More desirably, the height h can range from between about 4 inches to about 4.4 inches. Even more desirably, the height h can range from between about 3.8 inches to about 4.25 inches. 
     The roll product  14  is compressible by at least 10 percent measured perpendicular to its longitudinal central axis X 1 -X 1 , see  FIG. 8 . Desirably, each roll product  14  is compressible by at least 15 percent measured perpendicular to its longitudinal central axis X 1 -X 1 . More desirably, each roll product  14  is compressible by at least 20 percent measured perpendicular to its longitudinal central axis X 1 -X 1 . Each of the roll products  14  may also exhibit a relatively high coefficient of friction. Normally, the carton  12  can house from between 2 to 120 similar roll products  14 . An even number or an odd number of roll products  14  can be housed or retained in the carton  12 . Desirably, an even number of similar roll products  14  are housed in the carton  12 . For rolls of toilet paper, the carton  12  can be sized to house or retain 2, 4, 6, 8, 10, 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40 or more rolls of toilet paper. 
     It should be understood that one could house different types of roll products with a single carton  12 , if desired. Desirably, each carton  12  will retain a plurality of like kind of roll products  14 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 9 , the hollow core  16  is shown as an elongated cylindrical member having a round or circular cross-section. However, the hollow core  16  can have any geometrical cross-sectional shape. Desirably, the cross-section of each of the hollow cores  16  is circular. The hollow core  16  has a longitudinal central axis X 1 -X 1  and a transverse central axis Y 1 -Y 1 . As depicted, the hollow core  16  has an external or common diameter d 1 , a thickness t and a length l. All three dimensions can vary. For a typical roll of toilet paper, the hollow core  16  can have an external or common diameter d 1  that ranges from between about 1 to about 3 inches, desirably, from about 1.5 to about 2.5 inches, and more desirably, from between about 1.6 to about 2 inches. The hollow core  16  can have a thickness t that ranges from between about 0.01 to about 0.2 inches, desirably, from between about 0.02 to about 0.15 inches, and more desirably, from between about 0.05 to about 0.1 inches. The hollow core  16  can have a length l that ranges from between about 3 to about 6 inches, desirably from between about 3.5 to about 5 inches, and more desirably from between about 3.75 to about 4.25 inches. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 1 , the blank  10  will be described from left to right and from top to bottom. The blank  10  includes an adhesive tab  18 . The adhesive tab  18  can be a thin strip of adhesive or glue that will bond to an adjoining portion of the blank  10  once it is pressed and/or heated. The adhesive tab  18  can contain a continuous area of adhesive or glue or two or more intermittent areas of adhesive or glue. The blank  10  also includes a back panel  20  located adjacent to the adhesive tab  18 . The back panel  20  has a top  22  and a bottom  24 . The top and bottom,  22  and  24  respectively, are measured relative to the transverse central axis Y-Y. The blank  10  also has a first vertical fold line  26  positioned between the adhesive tab  18  and the back panel  20 . The first vertical fold line  26  extends parallel to the transverse central axis Y-Y. The first vertical fold line  26  can be a score, a crease, a groove, an indentation, a line of weakness, etc. that extends into a portion of the thickness of the blank  10 . Those skilled in the art are well aware of how to form the first vertical fold line  26  in the blank  10 . 
     The blank  10  further has a top panel  28  located adjacent to the back panel  20 . The top panel  28  has a top  30  and a bottom  32 . The blank  10  also has a second vertical fold line  34  positioned between the back panel  20  and the top panel  28 . The second vertical fold line  34  extends parallel to the transverse central axis Y-Y. The second vertical fold line  34  can be a score, a crease, a groove, an indentation a line of weakness, etc. that extends into a portion of the thickness of the blank  10 . Those skilled in the art are well aware of how to form the second vertical fold line  34  in the blank  10 . 
     The blank  10  further has a front panel  36  located adjacent to the top panel  28 . The front panel  36  has a top  38  and a bottom  40 . The blank  10  also has a third vertical fold line  42  positioned between the top panel  28  and the front panel  36 . The third vertical fold line  42  extends parallel to the transverse central axis Y-Y. The third vertical fold line  42  can be a score, a crease, a groove, an indentation, a line of weakness, etc. that extends into a portion of the thickness of the blank  10 . Those skilled in the art are well aware of how to form the third vertical fold line  42  in the blank  10 . 
     The blank  10  further has a bottom panel  44  located adjacent to the front panel  36 . The bottom panel  44  has a top  46  and a bottom  48 . The blank  10  also has a fourth vertical fold line  50  positioned between the front panel  36  and the bottom panel  44 . The fourth vertical fold line  50  extends parallel to the transverse central axis Y-Y. The fourth vertical fold line  50  can be a score, a crease, a groove, an indentation, a line of weakness, etc. that extends into a portion of the thickness of the blank  10 . Those skilled in the art are well aware of how to form the fourth vertical fold line  50  in the blank  10 . 
     Still referring to  FIG. 1 , the blank  10  also has a back panel top flap  52  located adjacent to the top  22  of the back panel  20 , a back panel bottom flap  54  located adjacent to the bottom  24  of the back panel  20 , a top panel bottom flap  56  located adjacent to the top  30  of the top panel  28 , a top panel bottom flap  58  located adjacent to the bottom  32  of the top panel  28 , a front panel top flap  60  located adjacent to the top  40  of the front panel  38 , a front panel bottom flap  60  located adjacent to the bottom  42  of the front panel  38 , a bottom panel top flap  64  located adjacent to the top  46  of the bottom panel  44 , and a bottom panel bottom flap  66  located adjacent to the bottom  48  of the bottom panel  44 . 
     The back panel top flap  52  has a height h 1  and the front panel top flap  60  has a height h 3 . The height h 1  of the back panel top flap  52  is approximately equal to the height h 3  of the front panel top flap  60 . Desirably, the height h 1  of the back panel top flap  52  is equal to the height h 3  of the front panel top flap  60 . The top panel top flap  56  has a height h 2  and the bottom panel top flap  64  has a height h 4 . The height h 2  of the top panel top flap  56  is greater than the height h 4  of the bottom panel top flap  64 . The height h 2  of the top panel top flap  56  can be approximately equal to the height h 1  of the back panel top flap  52  and approximately equal to the height h 3  of the front panel top flap  60 . Furthermore, the height h 4  of the bottom panel top flap  64  is less than the height h 1  of each of the back panel top flap  52  and is also less than the height h 3  of the front panel top flap  60 . The exact dimension of the heights h 1 , h 2 , h 3  and h 4  will vary depending upon the size of the carton  12 . 
     The top panel top flap  56  can optionally contain a pair of spaced apart slits  57 ,  57 . The pair of spaced apart slits  57 ,  57  can be aligned parallel to one another or be aligned at an angle relative to one another. Desirably, the pair of slits  57 ,  57  is aligned parallel to one another. The pair of spaced apart slits  57 ,  57  defines a flap  59  therebetween. The flap  59  will be explained in more detail later. 
     The adhesive tab  18  has a width w. The width w of the adhesive tab  18  can range from between about 0.25 inches to about 1 inch. Each of the back panel  20 , the top panel  28 , the front panel  38  and the bottom panel  44  has a width, w 1 , w 2 , w 3  and w 4  respectively. These widths w 1 , w 2 , w 3  and w 4  can vary depending on the size of the carton  12 . The width w 1  of the back panel  20  is approximately equal to the width w 3  of the front panel  38 . Desirably, the width w 1  of the back panel  20  is equal to the width w 3  of the front panel  38 . The width w 2  of the top panel  28  is approximately equal to the width w 4  of the bottom panel  44 . Desirably, the width w 2  of the top panel  28  is equal to the width w 4  of the bottom panel  44 . In addition, the width w 1  of the back panel  20  is greater than the width w 2  of the top panel  28 , and the width w 3  of the front panel  38  is greater than the width w 4  of the bottom panel  44 . 
     The above height and width dimensions apply to a carton sized to house twelve rolls of toilet paper. The dimensions of the blanks  10  and  10 ′ can be changed to produce a carton  12  that can hold various amounts of roll products  14 . 
     Still referring to  FIG. 1 , the back panel bottom flap  54  and the front panel bottom flap  62  are identical in size and configuration. The top panel bottom flap  58  and the bottom panel bottom flap  66  are identical in size and configuration. In addition, each of the back panel bottom flap  54  and the front panel bottom flap  62  is larger in size than either of the top panel bottom flap  58  or the bottom panel bottom flap  66 . 
     The blank  10  also has a first horizontal fold line  68  disposed between the back panel  20  and the back panel top flap  52 , between the top panel  28  and the top panel top flap  56 , between the front panel  38  and the front panel top flap  60 , and between the bottom panel  44  and the bottom panel top flap  64 . The blank  10  further has a second horizontal fold line  70  disposed between the back panel  20  and the back panel bottom flap  54 , between the top panel  28  and the top panel bottom flap  58 , between the front panel  38  and the front panel bottom flap  62 , and between the bottom panel  44  and the bottom panel bottom flap  66 . The first horizontal fold line  68  is aligned essentially parallel to the second horizontal fold line  70  and both the first and second horizontal fold line,  68  and  70  respectively, are aligned parallel to the longitudinal central axis X-X. The first and second horizontal fold lines,  68  and  70  respectively, can optionally contain perforations,  72  and  74  respectively, which can facilitate folding and forming the blank  10  into the carton  12 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 2 , a blank  10 ′ is depicted which is similar to the blank  10  except that it has a back panel bottom flap  54 ′, a top panel bottom flap  58 ′, a front panel bottom flap  62 ′ and a bottom panel bottom flap  66 ′ that have a slightly different configuration. The back panel bottom flap  54 ′ is identical to the front panel bottom flap  62 ′ and the top panel bottom flap  58 ′ is identical to the bottom panel bottom flap  66 ′. The back panel bottom flap  54 ′ contains a perforation line  76  which angles and intersects with the second vertical fold line  34 . Likewise, the front panel bottom flap  62 ′ contains a perforation line  78  which angles and intersects with the fourth vertical fold line  50 . The top panel bottom flap  58 ′ contains a spot of an adhesive or glue  80  and the bottom panel bottom flap  66 ′ also contains a spot of an adhesive or glue  82 . The adhesive or glue  80  is designed to secure the top panel bottom flap  58 ′ to the inside surface of the smaller portion of the back panel bottom flap  54 ′. Likewise, the adhesive or glue  82  is designed to secure the bottom panel bottom flap  66 ′ to the inside surface of the smaller portion of the front panel bottom flap  62 ′. The blank  10 ′ is then folded at the four vertical fold lines  26 ,  34 ,  42  and  50  and the adhesive tab  18  is secured to the bottom panel  44  to form a hollow sleeve, not shown. 
     The second horizontal fold line  70  still contains the perforations  74  to facilitate folding and forming the blank  10 ′ into the carton  12 . The four bottom flaps  54 ′,  58 ′,  62 ′ and  66 ′ are then folded inward into the sleeve and the two spots of adhesive  80  and  82  will bond the top panel bottom flap  58 ′ to the back panel bottom flap  54 ′ and the bottom panel bottom flap  66 ′ to the front panel bottom flap  62 ′ respectively. The sleeve is then flattened for storage and/or shipment. At the manufacturing plant, the flat sleeve can be again opened into a sleeve. This action will cause the four bottom flaps  54 ′,  58 ′,  62 ′ and  66 ′ to intermesh and form one end wall of the carton  12 . This is referred to as a “self-forming end” or an “auto forming end”. 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 1 ,  3  and  6 , the blank  10  also includes a first tear panel  84  formed in both the back panel top flap  52  and the front panel top flap  60 . The first tear panel  84  has a central portion  86  and a pair of end portions  88  and  90  which extends partially into the back panel  20  and into the front panel  38 , respectively. The size and shape of the first tear panel  84  can vary. Desirably, the first tear panel  84  can be of any geometrical shape. As depicted in  FIG. 1 , the first tear panel  84  has a rectangular central portion  86  sandwiched between the two irregular shaped end portions,  88  and  90  respectively. However, almost any geometrical configuration can be utilized. The rectangular central portion  86  is aligned perpendicular to the longitudinal central axis X-X of the carton  12 . The two end portions  88  and  90  are positioned at opposite ends of the central portion  86 . The end portions  88  and  90  are arranged at 90 degrees to the central portion  86 . 
     The end portions  88  and  90  can be constructed so that each extends a sufficient distance into each of the back and front panels,  20  and  38  respectively. When the end portions  88  and  90  extend to a distance that a major portion of the hollow core  16  is visible, it enables a consumer to reach in and grasp the roll product with one or both hands. Alternatively, the consumer can place his or her index finger in the hollow core  16  and extract the roll product from the carton  12  by pulling outward on the hollow core  16 . Desirably, one or both of the end portions  88  and  90  should extend at least about 1.5 inches inward into the back and/or front panels,  20  and  38  respectively, for a roll product  14  having a diameter d of about 4 inches. More desirably, one or both of the end portions  88  and  90  should extend at least about 2 inches inward into the back and/or front panels,  20  and  38  respectively, for a roll product  14  having a diameter d of about 4 inches. Even more desirably, one or both of the end portions  88  and  90  should extend at least about 2.5 inches inward into the back and/or front panels,  20  and  38  respectively, for a roll product  14  having a diameter d of about 4 inches. 
     The actual shape of the end portions  88  and  90  can vary. In addition, the end portion  88  can be identical or different in configuration from the other end portion  90 . One will notice in  FIG. 1  that the end portion  88  is different in size and shape from the other end portion  90 . 
     It should be understood that one or more finger holes  92  can be optionally formed in the first tear panel  84 . Each finger hole  92  can vary in size, shape and location. For example, in  FIG. 1 , two finger holes  92 ,  92  are depicted being formed in the first tear panel  84  approximate the first horizontal fold line  68 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 3 , the first tear panel  84  is circumscribed by a continuous perforation line  94 . The perforation line  94  contains a plurality of cuts  96  each separated by a land area  98 . The length of the cuts  96  and the size of the land areas  98  can vary in dimension and thickness. Likewise, the cuts  96  and the land areas  98  can vary in geometrical shape. Various portions of the perforation line  94  can be linear or non-linear. Some portions of the perforation line  94  can be arcuate or curved in configuration. The cuts  96  have a length which range from about 1 to 4 times the length of the land areas  98 . However, the cuts  96  can have a smaller length, an equal length or a greater length than the land areas  98 . 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 3 and 4 , by tearing or breaking the perforation line  94 , the first tear panel  84  can be completely removed from the carton  12 . When the first tear panel  84  is removed, a dispensing opening  100  is formed in the carton  12  which is of sufficient size and shape to permit the roll products  14 , housed in the carton  12 , to be dispended one at a time. The lower or bottom row of roll products  14  is dispensed through the dispensing opening  100 , see  FIG. 4 . The size and shape of the dispensing opening  100  prevents the roll products  14  situated in the adjacent upper row from being dispensed. 
     Referring to  FIG. 7 , one can see that the carton  12  contains three horizontal rows of the roll products  14 . The three rows include a bottom row, a middle row and an upper row, with four of the roll products  14  positioned in each of the horizontal rows. Only the roll product  14  situated in the bottom roll and adjacent to the dispensing opening  100  can be initially dispensed from the carton  12 . The size and shape of the dispensing opening  100  prevents the roll product  14  located directly above the left most roll product  14  in the lower row from being withdrawn from the carton  12  without deforming it. During the removal of the first roll product  14  from the carton  12 , the roll product  14  located immediately above it will move downward and occupy the empty space left by the withdrawn roll product  14 . The left most roll product located in the upper row will also simultaneously move downward to the middle row. This means that there will be only three roll products  14  left in the upper row. 
     Still referring to  FIG. 7 , the size and shape of the dispensing opening  100  is designed to permit only one of the roll products  14  to be withdrawn from the carton  12  at a time. One can see that the dispensing opening  100  is quite larger. For a carton  12  containing twelve or more rolls of toilet paper  14 , each having a diameter of about 4.25 inches, the dispensing opening  100  should have a height h 5 , measured parallel to the transverse central axis Y-Y, of at least about 6 inches. Desirably, the height h 5  of the dispensing opening  100  is at least about 6.5 inches. More desirably, the height h 5  of the dispensing opening  100  is at least about 7 inches. Even more desirably, the height h 5  of the dispensing opening  100  is at least about 7.5 inches. Most desirably, the height h 5  of the dispensing opening  100  is at least about 8 inches. Another way of expressing the height h 5  of the dispensing opening  100  is to say that the height h 5  is at least about 1.35 times the external or common diameter of the roll product  14 . Desirably, the height h 5  of the dispensing opening  100  is at least about 1.45 times the external or common diameter of the roll product  14 . More desirably, the height h 5  of the dispensing opening  100  is at least about 1.55 times the external or common diameter of the roll product  14 . Even more desirably, the height h 5  of the dispensing opening  100  is at least about 1.65 times the external or common diameter of the roll product  14 . Most desirably, the height h 5  of the dispensing opening  100  is at least about 1.75 times the external or common diameter of the roll product  14 . 
     Still referring to  FIG. 7 , the carton  12  contains a lip  102  which is situated between the bottom panel  44  and the lower edge of the first tear panel  84 . The lip  102  has a height h 6  which can vary in dimension. Desirably, the height h 6  of the lip  102  can range from between about 0.1 inches to about 2 inches. More desirably, the height h 6  of the lip  102  can range from between about 0.2 inches to about 1 inch. Even more desirably, the height h 6  of the lip  102  can range from between about 0.25 inches to about 0.75 inches. The width of the lip  102  can extend between the back panel  20  and the front panel  38  or be less than this dimension. 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 1 and 3 , the blank  12  also includes a second tear panel  104  formed in the back panel  20  and aligned adjacent to the second horizontal fold line  70 . The second tear panel  104  can have any configuration but desirably is circular. The second tear panel  104  has a central axis  106  aligned perpendicular to the back panel  20 . The second tear panel  104  includes a perforation line  108  which circumscribes a defined area. The perforation line  108  can consist or two or more cuts separated by land areas as was explained above with reference to the first and second horizontal fold lines,  68  and  70  respectively. The perforation line  108  can be continuous and extend 360 degrees around the defined area. Alternatively, the perforation line  108  can be non-continuous but the perforation line  108  should still extend about 300 degrees around the defined area. If a non-continuous perforation line is utilized, when the land areas of the perforations are broken, the remaining attached portion can be folded into the carton  12  so that it does not obstruct the insertion of an empty hollow core  16 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 3 , the second tear panel  104  is located about 4 inches below the top panel  28 . Desirably, the second tear panel  104  is located below or within about 3 inches of the top panel  28 . The second tear panel  104  is also positioned diagonally away from the dispensing opening  100 . Depending upon the physical dimensions of the carton  12 , the second tear panel  104  is positioned at least about 8 inches away from the dispensing opening  100 . Desirably, the second tear panel  104  is positioned at least about 10 inches away from the dispensing opening  100 . Furthermore, the central axis  106  of the second tear panel  104  is located at a distance b from the bottom panel  44 . The top of the first tear panel  84  is located at a distance b 1  from the bottom panel  44 . The distance b is greater than the distance b 1 . Desirably, the distance b is greater than the distance ID, by at least about 2 inches. More desirably, the distance b is greater than the distance ID, by at least about 3 inches. 
     Referring to  FIGS. 4 and 7 , when the second tear panel  104  is removed, an empty hollow core insertion opening  110  is formed into the carton  12 . The insertion opening  110  can vary in size and have any desired geometrical shape. Desirably, the insertion opening  110  is circular in configuration and has a diameter d 2  which is equal to or larger than the external or common diameter d 1  of the empty hollow cores  16 . More desirably, the diameter d 2  of the insertion opening  110  is at least about 0.1 inches larger than the external or common diameter d 1  of the empty hollow cores  16 . Even more desirably, the diameter d 2  of the insertion opening  110  is at least about 0.25 inches larger than the external or common diameter d 1  of the empty hollow cores  16 . Most desirably, the diameter d 2  of the insertion opening  110  ranges from between about 0.1 inches to about 1 inch larger than the external or common diameter d 1  of the empty hollow cores  16 . 
     The diameter d 2  of the insertion opening  110  can range from between about 1 inch to about 3 inches. Desirably, the diameter d 2  of the insertion opening  110  is at least about 1.5 inches. More desirably, the diameter d 2  of the insertion opening  110  is at least about 1.75 inches. Even more desirably, the diameter d 2  of the insertion opening  110  is at least about 2 inches. 
     Referring again to  FIG. 1 , a third tear panel  112  is formed in the front panel  38  and is aligned adjacent to the second horizontal fold line  70 . The third tear panel  112  has a central axis  114  aligned perpendicular to the front panel  38 . The central axis of the third tear panel  112  can be coaxially aligned with the central axis  106  of the second tear panel  104 . 
     The third tear panel  112  can be identical in size and shape to the second tear panel  104 . Alternatively, the third tear panel  112  can be different in size and/or shape to the second tear panel  104 . Desirably, the second and third tear panels,  104  and  112  are identical in size and shape. The third tear panel  112  includes a perforation line  116  which circumscribes a defined area. The perforation line  116  can consist or two or more cuts separated by land areas as was explained above with reference to the perforation line  108 . The perforation line  116  can be continuous and extend 360 degrees around the defined area. Alternatively, the perforation line  116  can be non-continuous but the perforation line  116  should still extend about 300 degrees around the defined area. If a non-continuous perforation line is utilized, when the land areas of the perforations are broken, the remaining attached portion can be folded into the carton  12  so that it does not obstruct the insertion of an empty hollow core  16 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 6 , when the third tear panel  112  is removed, another empty hollow core insertion opening  118  is formed into the carton  12  through which an empty hollow core  16  can be inserted. The insertion opening  118  can vary in size and have any desired geometrical shape. Desirably, the insertion opening  118  is circular in configuration and has a diameter d 3  which is equal to or larger than the external or common diameter d 1  of the empty hollow cores  16 . More desirably, the diameter d 3  of the insertion opening  118  is at least about 0.1 inches larger than the external or common diameter d 1  of the empty hollow cores  16 . Even more desirably, the diameter d 3  of the insertion opening  118  is at least about 0.25 inches larger than the external or common diameter d 1  of the empty hollow cores  16 . Most desirably, the diameter d 3  of the insertion opening  118  ranges from between about 0.1 inches to about 1 inch larger than the external or common diameter d 1  of the empty hollow cores  16 . 
     As mentioned above, the diameter d 2  of the insertion opening  108  is desirably equal to the diameter d 3  of the insertion opening  118 . The diameter d 3  of the insertion opening  118  can range from between about 1 inch to about 3 inches. Desirably, the diameter d 3  of the insertion opening  118  is at least about 1.5 inches. More desirably, the diameter d 3  of the insertion opening  118  is at least about 1.75 inches. Even more desirably, the diameter d 3  of the insertion opening  118  is at least about 2 inches. 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 1 ,  3  and  4 , a fourth tear panel  120  is formed in the top panel  28 . The fourth tear panel  120  has a central axis  122  aligned perpendicular to the top panel  28 . The fourth tear panel  120  includes a perforation line  124  which circumscribes a defined area. The perforation line  124  can consist or two or more cuts separated by land areas as was explained above with reference to the second tear panel  104 . The perforation line  124  can be continuous and extend 360 degrees around the defined area. Alternatively, the perforation line  124  can be non-continuous but the perforation line  124  should still extend about 300 degrees around the defined area. If a non-continuous perforation line is utilized, when the land areas of the perforations are broken, the remaining attached portion can be folded into the carton  12 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 1 ,  10  and  11 , a finger aperture  126  can optionally be formed in the fourth tear panel  120 . The finger aperture  126  can be formed by surrounding a small area of the fourth tear panel  120  with cuts or perforations each separated by a narrow land area. When a person presses down on the small area, the land areas break and the finger aperture  126  is formed into the carton  12 . The finger opening  126  is sized to allow a person to insert his or her index finger therein and pull up thereby separating the fourth tear panel  120  from the top panel  28  of the carton  12 . 
     Referring now to  FIG. 12 , when the fourth tear panel  120  is removed, a viewing opening or window  128  is formed into the carton  12  through which a consumer can view the roll products  14 . The viewing opening or window  128  can vary in size and shape. As shown, the viewing opening or window  128  has a generally tear drop shape or other aesthetically pleasing shape. The viewing opening or window  128  is located adjacent to the top  30  of the top panel  28 . Desirably, the viewing opening or window  128  is located from between about 1 inch to about 6 inches of the top  30  of the top panel  28 . The viewing opening or window  128  can be aligned along the longitudinal central axis X-X, as shown in  FIG. 12 , or be offset therefrom. The viewing opening or window  128  can expose an area of at least about 1 square inch. Desirably, viewing opening or window  128  could expose an area of at least about 2 square inches. More desirably, the viewing opening or window  128  could expose an area of at least about 3 square inches. 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 1 ,  3  and  4 , a fifth tear panel  130  is formed in the top panel  28 . The fifth tear panel  130  has a central axis  132  aligned perpendicular to the top panel  28 . The central axes  122  and  132  of the fourth and fifth tear panels,  120  and  130  respectively, can be aligned along a common central axis, such as the longitudinal central axis X-X, see  FIGS. 3 and 4 . The fifth tear panel  130  includes a perforation line  134  and a non-perforated portion  136 . The perforation line  134  and the non-perforated portion  136  cooperate to circumscribe a defined area. The perforation line  134  can consist of two or more cuts separated by land areas as was explained above with reference to the second tear panel  104 . The land areas of the perforation line  134  can be easily broken while the non-perforated portion  136  remains attached to the top  28  of the carton  12 . This creates a flap  138  that can pivot, fold or bend along the non-perforated portion  136 . 
     Referring again to  FIG. 12 , when the flap  138  of the fifth tear panel  130  is pushed downward into the carton  12 , a handle opening  140  is formed which allows a consumer to insert one, two three or four fingers of one hand and easily carry the carton  12 . The handle opening  140  should have its maximum dimension aligned parallel to the longitudinal central axis Z-Z. By orienting the handle opening  140  in this fashion, the back or front panels,  20  or  38  respectively, can be positioned adjacent to a leg of the person who is carrying the carton  12 . This will facilitate a comfortable way to carry the carton  12 . 
     Referring again to  FIGS. 3-7 , the carton  12  is formed from the blank  10 . The carton  12  is capable of housing a plurality of generally cylindrically shaped products  14  formed from cellulose fibers. Each of the products  14  is wound upon a hollow core  16  formed from cellulose fibers. Each hollow core  16  has a common diameter d 1 . The carton  12  includes a top panel  28  and a bottom panel  44  aligned opposite to the top panel  28 . The carton  12  also has a pair of end walls  142  and  144  each being located between the top panel  28  and the bottom panel  44 . The carton  12  further has a front panel  38  and a back panel  20  each being located between the top panel  28  and the bottom panel  44  and adjacent to each of the pair of end walls  142  and  144 . A first tear panel  84  is formed in one of the pair of end walls  142  and  144 . The first tear panel  84  has a pair of portions  88  and  90 , one of which extends partially into the back panel  20  and the other which extends partially into the front panel  38 . When the first tear panel  84  is removed, a dispensing opening  100  is formed into the carton  12 . A second tear panel  104  is formed in the back panel  20 . The second tear panel  104  has a diameter d 2  which is at least equal to the external or common diameter d 1  of each of the hollow cores  16 . When the second tear panel  104  is removed, an empty hollow core insertion opening  110  is formed into the carton  12 . The insertion opening  110  allows an empty hollow core  16  to be inserted back into the carton  12  once one of the products  14  has been removed from the carton  12 . 
     Referring to  FIG. 5 , an end wall  144 ′ is shown which is constructed from the four bottom flaps  54 ′,  58 ′,  62 ′ and  66 ′ depicted in  FIG. 2 . The end wall  144 ′ is a self forming end wall that is created when the folded flat blank  10  is opened in to a hollow sleeve. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 13 , a plurality of cartons  12  is stacked on a movable pallet  146 . The number of cartons  12  stacked on the pallet  146  can vary. For example, 20 or more cartons  12  can form a shipping quantity  148 . The actual number of cartons  12  making up the stack will vary depending upon the size of each carton  12 . In  FIG. 13 , thirty cartons  12  are shown making up one row of cartons  12 . The pallet  146  can be sized to accommodate three rows which means ninety cartons  12  can be assembled into the stack. 
     The shipping quantity  148  has a longitudinal central axis X 2 -X 2  and a transverse central axis Y 2 -Y 2 . The size, height, weight, etc. of the shipping quantity  148  can vary. The pallet  146  can be formed from a heavy grade of cardboard. The thickness of the cardboard forming the pallet  146  can range from between about 0.2 inches to about 0.8 inches. The pallet  146  can vary in shape and size. Desirably, the pallet  146  has a rectangular or square configuration. The pallet  146  has a height h 7  which can range from between about 4 inches to about 10 inches. Desirably, the pallet  146  has a height h 7  of less than about 8 inches. The pallet  146  can contain two or more fork lift channels  150 ,  150 . Two channels  150 ,  150  are depicted in  FIG. 13 . The two channels  150 ,  150  are sized, configured and spaced apart so as to receive the protruding forks on a fork lift truck. The channels  150 ,  150  can be located in the bottom of the pallet  146  or near the bottom of the pallet  146 . 
     Referring to  FIGS. 13 and 14 , the stack of cartons  12  is held vertically upright by four corner post  152 , two of which are depicted in  FIG. 13 . Each of the four corner posts  152  is formed from paperboard or cardboard. Each of the corner posts  152  can vary in length. Typically, all four corner posts  152  have the same length. Each of the four corner posts  152  has a pair of sides  154  and  156  which are aligned at an angle theta (θ). The angle θ can range from between about 85 degrees to about 95 degrees to form an approximately L-shape. Desirably, the angle θ is approximately 90 degree. More desirably, the angle θ is 90 degree. 
     A top cap  158  having a downwardly extending peripheral lip  160  is placed on top of the stack of cartons  12 . The top cap  158  is also formed from paperboard or cardboard. The top cap  158  cooperates with the four L-shaped corner posts  152  and the pallet  146  to provide support to the cartons  12 . A thin flexible wrap, not shown, which can be formed from a starch material, a thermoplastic material, a plastic material, or any other material known to those in the packaging art, can be wrapped around the perimeter of the stack to form the integral shipping quantity  148 . 
     One should recognize that the cardboard cartons  12 , the empty hollow cores  16 , the pallet  146 , the four corner posts  152 , the top cap  158  are all constructed from cellulose fibers and can be recycled or composed thereby alleviating disposal in a landfill. In addition, the thin flexible wrap can also be recycled if it is made from a starch based product. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 1 ,  15  and  16 , one can see that the flap  59  is folded upward along the first horizontal fold line  68  and is folded, bent or overlapped upon itself. In other words, the flap  59  is rotated 180 degrees from its position in the blank  10 , see  FIG. 1 . Furthermore, the flap  59  will be positioned approximately 270 degrees from the remaining two portions of the top panel top flap  56  when the carton  12  is fully assembled from the blank  10 . The flap  59  is designed to pivot or rotate about the first horizontal fold line  68  so that it can be oriented at 90 degrees or more relative to the upper surface of the top panel  28 . The flap  59  can be moved from a closed position, where it is horizontally aligned adjacent to the top panel  28 , to an open position where it is aligned at an angle of 90 degrees or more relative to the top panel  28 . In other words, the flap  59  can be pivoted so as to be aligned perpendicular to the top panel  28 . In the closed position, the flap  59  lies essentially parallel to the top panel  28 . In the open position, the flap  59  is rotated or pivoted to expose an opening  162 . The opening  162  is formed in the top panel  28  and extends completely through the thickness of the top panel  28 . When the flap  59  is in the open position, a viewing and reach-in window is created into the carton  12 . 
     The flap  59  is sized and configured to completely cover the opening  162 . The opening  162  can vary in size and configuration. Desirably, the opening  162  has a surface area of at least about one square inch. More desirably, the opening has a surface area of at least about 1.5 square inches. Most desirably, the opening  162  has a surface area of 2 or more square inches. The opening  162  can be located where the fourth tear panel  120  is located. Alternatively, the opening  162  can be located between the fourth tear panel  120  and the first horizontal fold line  68 . Still alternatively, the opening  162  can be made to overlap a portion of the fourth tear panel  120 . The opening  162  functions as an inspection window wherein a potential customer can pull and pivot the flap  59  upward and backward and visually look through the opening  162  to see the roll products  14  housed in the carton  12 . In addition, the potential customer can insert one or more fingers and/or his or her thumb through the opening  162  so as to actually touch and feel the softness and/or texture of the roll product  14  located adjacent to the opening  162 . Some customers like to be able to feel the softness of toilet paper they are contemplating purchasing to make sure the toilet paper is of a softness which suits them. Since toilet paper is a product that will actually contact the human body, some customers require that it is be very soft so as not to be abrasive against their skin during use. Toilet paper is sold in different grades of softness. 
     Referring to  FIG. 16 , an adhesive  164  is present between the top panel  28  and the lower surface of the flap  59 . By “adhesive” it is meant a sticky, gummed substance, such as paste, glue, cement, etc., that provides adhesion. The adhesive  164  can be a hot melt adhesive, a cold melt adhesive, a co-adhesive, etc. The composition of the adhesive  164  can vary. The adhesive  164  should have a peel strength that will allow the flap  59  to be easily separated from the top panel  28  and allow the flap  59  to be easily reapplied to the top panel  28  more than once. The adhesive  164  should be made such that the flap  59  can be released from the top panel  28  and be resealed against the top panel  28  multiple times. One skilled in the adhesive arts will be able to select an adhesive  164  which is capable of performing this function. 
     It should be understood that when the flap  59  is adhesively secured to the top panel  28 , the opening  162  will be completely closed. With the flap  59  closes the opening  162 , a person looking at the carton  12  will not view the carton  12  as being violated in any way. The carton  12  will be a closed carton  12  and completely enclose any roll products  14  contained therein. 
     Referring now to  FIG. 17 , an alternative embodiment is shown wherein a label  166  having a lower adhesive surface  168  covers at least a portion of the flap  59  and is secured to a portion of the top panel  28 . Desirably, the label  166  completely covers the flap  59  and is secured to a portion of the top panel  28 . 
     The lower adhesive surface  168  contains an adhesive that is releasable and resealable. The lower adhesive surface  168  can be separated from and be reattached to the top panel  28  and/or to the flap  59  multiple times. The label  166  functions to temporarily secure the flap  59  to the top panel  28 . The label  166  can be released or separated from the top panel  28  so that the flap  59  can be pivoted upward and backward away from the opening  162 . Alternatively, the label  166  can be released or separated from the flap  59  so that the flap  59  can be pivoted upward and backward away from the opening  162 . 
     The label  166  can be constructed from various materials. For example, the label  166  can be constructed from cellulosic fibers, from a film material, from a thermoplastic, from plastic, from a composite material, from a combination of two or more materials, etc. Desirably, the label  166  is formed from a recyclable or compostable material. By “recyclable” it is meant to reprocess from waste for reuse, to use again, to reclaim for a new use or function. By “compostable” it is meant to convert to compost. 
     Referring now to  FIGS. 18-21 , another embodiment a carton  12 ′ is depicted. The carton  12 ′ has an end wall  144 ″ containing a first portion  170 , a second portion  172 , a third portion  174  and a fourth portion  176 . The third and fourth portions,  174  and  176  respectively, are first folded and then the second portion  172  is folded at least partially over them. Lastly, the first portion  170  is folded so as to partially overlap the second portion  172  and can be secured thereto by one or more spots of adhesive, not shown. 
     In  FIG. 18 , the first portion  170  is depicted in an open positioned before it is folded over and partially overlaps the second portion  172 . One can see that the carton  12 ′ contains three rows of roll products  14 . The rows can be arranged in a vertical fashion. The first portion  170  contains a partially separable flap  178 . The flap  178  can be formed from the same material which forms the remainder of the first portion  170 . Alternatively, the flap  178  can be formed from a different material. The flap  178  can be initially secured to the remainder of the first portion by a pair of perforation lines  180  and  182 . Alternatively, the pair of perforation lines  180  and  182  can be lines of weakness, score lines, etc. as is known to those skilled in the art. The pair of perforation lines  180  and  182  is designed to be broken so that at least a portion of the flap  178  can be separated from the first portion  170 . The pair of perforation lines  180  and  182  can be aligned parallel to one another or be aligned at an angle to one another. The pair of perforation lines  180  and  182  can extend toward, up to or into the back panel  20 . Desirably, the pair of perforation lines  180  and  182  extends up to the back panel  20 . Another way of expressing this is to say that the pair of perforation lines  180  and  182  extends across the width of the first portion  170 . The size and shape of the flap  178  can vary to suit one&#39;s needs. Desirably, the flap  178  has a generally rectangular shape. The flap  178  has a free end  184  which can contain a pair of bevel edges  186  and  188 . The bevel edges  186  and  188  visually differentiate the free end  184  of the flap  178  from the remainder of the first portion  170 . This feature makes it easy for a consumer to readily locate the flap  178 . Although, a pair of bevel edges  186  and  188  is shown, the free end  184  of the flap  178  can be cut and/or shaped into any desired geometrical pattern or shape. For example, the free end  184  of the flap  178  can be rounded, have an arcuate shape, contain notches, be sinusoidal, have a finger tab extending outward therefrom, etc. If a finger tab is utilized, it can have a width which is less than the width of the flap  178 . 
     The flap  178  also has an opposite end  190 , see  FIGS. 19 and 21 , which is connected to the back panel  20 . The flap  178  can rotate or move around the opposite end  190 . For example, the flap  178  can rotate, from its initial closed position, wherein it is aligned flush with the first portion  170 , to an open position once the pair of perforation lines  180  and  182  is broken. The flap  178  can rotate through an angle up to about 270 degrees. Desirably, the flap  178  can rotate through an angle of from between about 30 degrees to about 180 degrees. More desirably, the flap  178  can rotate through an angle of from between about 45 degrees to about 90 degrees. 
     The carton  12 ′ is packaged and shipped from the manufacturer to the retailer with the flap  178  being in the closed position as shown in  FIG. 19 . At the retailer, if a consumer desired to feel the softness or texture of the roll products  14  housed in the carton  12 ′, he or she can pull the flap  178  outward, away from the end wall  144 ″, thereby causing the pair of perforation lines  180  and  182  to break. This action separates the flap  178  from the remainder of the first portion  170  although the flap  178  is always connected at its opposite end  190 . An opening  192  occurs as the flap  178  is rotated away from the first portion  170 . The opening  192  should be of sufficient size and shape to allow a consumer to easily insert his or her thumb as well as an index finger therethrough. Alternatively, the opening  192  should be of sufficient size to allow a consumer to insert two or more fingers through the opening  192 . The opening  192  allows the consumer to reach into the carton  12 ′ and physically touch and feel at least one of the roll products  14 . This will allow a consumer to satisfy themselves that the roll products  14  housed in the carton  12 ′ are of sufficient softness, or texture, or possesses the quality that they are looking for. After the physical inspection has taken place, the flap  178  can be rotated back to a closed position. A slit  194 , see  FIGS. 20 and 21 , is formed in the second portion  172 . The slit  194  can be aligned parallel to the longitudinal central axis X-X or be aligned at an angle thereto. The slit  194  is of sufficient length to allow the free end  184  of the flap  178  to be tucked or inserted therethrough. Alternatively, the slit  194  is of sufficient length to allow the finger tab to be inserted therein or to engage therewith. The free end  184  of the flap  178 , or the finger tab when it is present, should be able to be inserted at least 0.1 inches inward through the slit  194 . Desirably, the free end  184  of the flap  178 , or the finger tab when it is present, should be able to be inserted at least 0.2 inches inward through the slit  194 . More desirably, the free end  184  of the flap  178 , or the finger tab when it is present, should be able to be inserted at least 0.3 inches inward through the slit  194 . This will create a secure attachment of the flap  178  with the remaining first portion  170  of the end wall  144 ″. 
     It should be noted that the consumer, a store employee or someone else can return the flap  178 , or the finger tab when it is present, from its open position to the closed position where the free end  184  is tucked or inserted through the slit  194 . When the flap  178 , or the finger tab when it is present, is tucked into the slit  194 , the carton  12 ′ will appear to be similar to an unopened carton  12 ′. 
     Method 
     A method of recycling empty hollow cores  16  formed from cellulose fibers back into the original package carton  12  will now be explained with reference to  FIG. 22 . A plurality of roll products  14 , each formed from cellulosic material and each being wound upon an empty hollow core  16 , are housed or retained in the carton  12 . The carton  12  is formed also from cellulose fibers. Desirably, the carton  12  is constructed from paperboard. The carton  12  can be recycled or composed by itself or in combination with one or more of the empty hollow cores  16  once the roll product  14  has been removed from the respective hollow core  16 . Each of the hollow cores  16  has a paper product  14 , such as toilet paper, wound upon it. The roll product  14  usually includes multiple sheets of cellulosic material each separated by a weakened line, such as a perforation line or score line, so that one or more of the sheets can be removed from the roll product  14  at a given time. When all of the sheets are removed, an empty hollow core  16  will remain. 
     The method includes the steps of inserting a plurality of the roll products  14  into the carton  12  and closing and sealing the open end of the carton  12 . The carton  12  can then be shipped to a retailer or directly to a consumer. The carton  12  has a top panel  28  and a bottom panel  44  aligned opposite to the top panel  28 . The carton  12  also has a pair of end walls  142  and  144  each being located between the top panel  28  and the bottom panel  44 . The carton  12  further has a front panel  38  and a back panel  20 , each being located between the top panel  28  and the bottom panel  44  and adjacent to each of the pair of end walls  142  and  144 . The carton  12  also has a first tear panel  84  formed in one of the pair of end walls  142  and  144  and has an end portion  88  which extends partially into the back panel  20  and another end portion  90  which extends partially into the front panel  38 . When the first tear panel  84  is removed, a dispensing opening  100  is formed into the carton  12 . The dispensing opening  100  provides access to at least one of the products  14  housed within the carton  14 . A roll product situated in the bottom row or adjacent to the bottom panel  44  can be withdrawn from the dispensing opening  100 . 
     A second tear panel  104  is formed in either the back panel  20  or in the front panel  38 . The second tear panel  104  has a diameter d 2  which is at least equal to the external or common diameter d 1  of each of the hollow cores. When the second tear panel  104  is removed, an empty hollow core insertion opening  110  is formed into the carton  12 . The insertion opening  110  allows an empty hollow core  16  to be inserted back into the carton  12  once one of the products  14  has been removed from the carton  12 . One of the products  14  has to be first removed from the carton  12  in order to form a void space before the empty hollow core  16  can be inserted back into the carton  12 . 
     The method also includes removing the first tear panel  84  to obtain the dispensing opening  100  into the carton  12 . The second tear panel  104  is also removed to obtain the insertion opening  110 . One of the products  14  is then removed from the carton  12  and the product which is wound upon the hollow core  16  is used up to obtain an empty hollow core  16 . The method further includes inserting the empty hollow core  16  back into the carton  12  through the insertion opening  110 . 
     The method can also includes recycling or composting the carton  12  after it has been filled with one or more empty hollow cores  16 . 
     The method further includes forming the second tear panel  104  in the back panel  20  and forming a third tear panel  112  in the front panel  38 . The third tear panel  112  has a diameter d 3  which is at least equal to the external or common diameter d 1  of each of the hollow cores  16 . When the third tear panel  112  is removed, another empty hollow core insertion opening  118  is formed into the carton  12 . The insertion opening  118  provides another opening so that an empty hollow core  16  can be inserted back into the carton  12  once one of the products  14  has been removed from the carton  12 . With the presence of both of the empty hollow core insertion openings  110  and  118 , one can insert an empty hollow core  16  back into the carton  12  from either the back or front panels,  20  and  38  respectively. 
     While the invention has been described in conjunction with several specific embodiments, it is to be understood that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing description. Accordingly, this invention is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations which fall within the spirit and scope of the appended claims.