CONVERTIBLE CARTON GAME SYSTEM

Abstract

A convertible carton game system includes a carton having a plurality of panels including a top panel and a bottom panel. At least one of the plurality of panels includes perforations for at least one punch out in The at least one punch out is configured such that removal of the at least one punch out converts the carton into a game component.

Description

BACKGROUND

Cartons are frequently used to contain products or ship various articles. Such cartons, sometimes referred to as boxes, are often rectangular or square in shape. The use of such cartons for shipping articles has proliferated with the recent advent of online shopping. Such cartons/boxes often end up in landfills which is wasteful and destructive for the environment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front perspective view illustrating portions of an example convertible carton game system.

FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view illustrating portions of the example convertible carton game system of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 is a top view illustrating portions of an example sheet for forming an example carton of the convertible carton game system of FIG. 1.

FIG. 4 is a front perspective view illustrating conversion of the convertible carton game system of FIG. 1 to example game components.

FIG. 5 is a rear perspective view illustrating conversion of the convertible carton game system of FIG. 2 to the example game components.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating the example convertible carton game system of FIG. 1 converted to the example game components.

FIG. 7 is a sectional view of an example game projectile of the example convertible carton game system of FIG. 1.

FIG. 8 is a sectional view of an example game projectile of the example convertible carton game system of FIG. 1.

FIG. 9 is a front perspective view illustrating portions of an example convertible carton game system.

FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating the example convertible carton game system of FIG. 9 converted to example game components.

FIG. 11 is a front perspective view illustrating portions of an example convertible carton game system.

FIG. 12 is a rear perspective view illustrating portions of the example convertible carton game system of FIG. 11.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view illustrating the example convertible carton game system of FIGS. 11 and 12 converted to example game components.

FIG. 14 is a front perspective view illustrating portions of an example convertible carton game system.

FIG. 15 is a rear perspective view illustrating portions of the example convertible carton game system of FIG. 14.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view illustrating the example convertible carton game system of FIGS. 14 and 15 converted to example game components.

FIG. 17 is a rear perspective view illustrating portions of an example convertible carton game system.

FIG. 18 is a front perspective view illustrating portions of the example convertible carton game system of FIG. 17.

FIG. 19 is a perspective view illustrating the example convertible carton game system of FIGS. 17 and 18 converted to example game components.

FIG. 20 is a front perspective view illustrating portions of an example convertible carton game system.

FIG. 21 is a perspective view illustrating the example convertible carton game system of FIG. 20 converted to an example game component.

FIG. 22 is a front perspective view illustrating portions of an example convertible carton game system.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view illustrating the example convertible carton game system of FIG. 22 converted to an example game component.

FIG. 24 is a front perspective view illustrating an example convertible carton game system.

FIG. 25 is a rear perspective view illustrating the example convertible carton game system of FIG. 24.

FIG. 26 is a perspective view illustrating the example convertible carton game system of FIGS. 24 and 25 converted into game components.

FIG. 27 is a plan view of an example template or sheet for forming an example carton of the example game system of FIG. 24.

FIG. 28 is an end view illustrating portions of an example convertible carton game system.

FIG. 29 is a side view of the example convertible carton game system of FIG. 28.

FIG. 30 is a front perspective view illustrating portions of an example convertible carton game system.

FIG. 31 is a rear perspective view of the example convertible carton game system of FIG. 30.

FIG. 32 is a top perspective view of the convertible carton game system of FIGS. 30 and 31 converted into a game having game components.

FIG. 33 is an end view illustrating portions of an example convertible carton game system.

Throughout the drawings, broken or dashed lines are employed

Some of the dashed lines illustrate perforations, through one or more layers or panels. Such perforations may be utilized to form slits, may be utilized to facilitate the separation or tearing apart of panels or components or may be utilized to form punch outs. Other dashed lines illustrate objects or articles on an interior of a carton. Some broken or dashed lines may be utilized to identify components that are optional.

Throughout the drawings, identical reference numbers designate similar, but not necessarily identical, elements. The figures are not necessarily to scale, and the size of some parts may be exaggerated to more clearly illustrate the example shown. Moreover, the drawings provide examples and/or implementations consistent with the description; however, the description is not limited to the examples and/or implementations provided in the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXAMPLES

Disclosed are example cartons which are configured for being converted and repurposed as a game, such as a tabletop or desktop game for single players or multiple players. Such cartons include perforations that form one or more punch outs, wherein the perforations facilitate manual removal or separation of the punch out from the remainder of the carton. In some implementations, the punch out facilitate manual removal of such punch outs without any tools; the removal may be achieved by simply manually pressing against the punch out until the material along the perforations is torn. In other implementations, such punch outs facilitate manual removal of such punch outs with the assistance of a scissors or knife. In both cases, perforations define the shape of the punch out to facilitate conversion of the carton into a game component.

In some implementations, the removal of the punch out facilitates use of remaining portions of the carton as a game component. Removal of one or more punch outs may facilitate use of a panel of the carton as a playing surface for a game. In some implementations, the panel itself may include printed indicia, markings or graphics that facilitate use the surface of the panel as a playing surface for the game. The printed markings may designate one or more targets for a projectile (such as a ball or bag) and/or may assign point values for such targets. In some implementations, the printed markings may depict an associated real-world playing surface on the panel. For example, the printed markings may depict yardage markers of a football field, a baseline, dividing line or service line for a racket/paddle based sport such as pickle ball, tennis or ping-pong.

In some implementations, the punch outs themselves may alternatively or additionally serve as a component for the game. In some implementations, a punch out may have a shape and size so as to form a handheld component, such as a paddle/racket. In some implementations, a punch out may have a shape and size so as to be mounted to a remainder of the carton in an upright fashion to provide a three-dimensional playing surface for the game. For example, a punch out may have shape and size so as to serve as a net, that when mounted to a remainder to of the carton, rises from the playing surface for a game such as pickle ball, tennis or ping-pong. A punch out may also have shape and size so as to serve as a goalpost (an American football goalpost) that when mounted to a remainder of the carton, rises up from the playing surface for a game such as a field-goal football game. In such implementations, another punch out may be in the form of a triangle or shape for being folded into a triangle along a fold line so as to serve as a projectile (representing a football) for the field-goal football game. In each of such implementations, the punch out may include printed markings or graphics. For example, the punch out may include the depiction of a handle, a racket or paddle face, a net, or a football, such as with lacings.

In some implementations, the carton may include preformed slits for receiving portions of punch outs to mount the punch outs to the remainder of the carton in an upright fashion. In some implementations, the carton may include a series of perforations or punch outs that form openings for receiving portions of other punch outs to mount the other punch outs to the remainder of the carton in an upright fashion.

In some implementations, the carton facilitates packaging or shipping of articles unrelated to the game to which the carton is convertible. Such articles may be entirely unrelated to the game. In some implementations, the carton may be part of a system (a kit) that also contains, in addition to non-game articles being shipped, other game components. For example, such other game components may comprise particle filled bags (full or miniature sized bags full of particles or particulate material such as beans, beads, corn, rice or the like), wherein such bags are sized and/or sufficiently bendable/deformable for passage through openings formed by the punch out. The inclusion of such bags may facility use of the carton, with appropriate punch outs, for forming a game sometimes referred to as bags or corn hole. Such bags may also be used for a target game wherein multiple punch outs provide multiple openings, the same or different sizes, wherein the different openings have different assigned point values. The bags may be affixed to an interior of the carton so as to reduce consumption of valuable space within the carton for the actual articles being shipped. In some implementations, the bags may alternatively be loose inside the carton or placed inside an article being shipped inside the carton. In some implementation, the bags include selectively openable and closable closing mechanism such as zippers, hook and loop fasteners, ZIPLOC (male-and-female track or singletrack zipper) closing mechanisms or other closing mechanisms, wherein the bags may be subsequently filled by the end user with such particles or particulate material, reducing the volume and weight of such bags during use of the carton as a shipping container.

In some implementations, the system or kit may additionally include stickers which may be applied to surfaces of the panel that are to serve as a playing surface for the game or that are to be punched out so as to form a projectile or handheld component of the game. The stickers may be separate components contained within the carton or may be peelable away from at least one surface of one or more panels of the carton. Such stickers may include graphics or printed indicia that further facilitate use of a panel surface as a playing surface for the game or use of a punch out as a mobile game component such as a projectile (triangular American football or the like) or paddle/racket.

In some implementations, the punch outs may facility conversion of the entire carton as a game component/game piece. For example, in some implementations, such as where the carton is a six sided cube, each of the six faces or panels of the box may include different punch out of different number and orientations so as to form a cube that resembles and may be used as a die, wherein a pair of such boxes may form a pair of dice. In some implementations, the punch outs may be arranged in columns and rows, wherein a person may select a particular individual punch outs to form a particular numbered domino, wherein a set of such rectangular cartons or boxes may form a set of dominoes.

For purposes of this disclosure, the term “coupled” shall mean the joining of two members directly or indirectly to one another. Such joining may be stationary in nature or movable in nature. Such joining may be achieved with the two members, or the two members and any additional intermediate members being integrally formed as a single unitary body with one another or with the two members or the two members and any additional intermediate member being attached to one another. Such joining may be permanent in nature or alternatively may be removable or releasable in nature. The term “operably coupled” shall mean that two members are directly or indirectly joined such that motion may be transmitted from one member to the other member directly or via intermediate members.

For purposes of this disclosure, the phrase “configured to” denotes an actual state of configuration that fundamentally ties the stated function/use to the physical characteristics of the feature proceeding the phrase “configured to”.

For purposes of this disclosure, the term “releasably” or “removably” with respect to an attachment or coupling of two structures means that the two structures may be repeatedly connected and disconnected to and from one another without material damage to either of the two structures or their functioning.

FIGS. 1 and 2 are perspective views illustrating portions of an example convertible carton game system 20. System 20 comprises a shipping box or package that is configured for being converted and repurposed as a game, such as a tabletop or desktop game for single players or multiple players. System 20 comprises carton 24, non-game articles 26-1, 26-2 (collectively referred to as articles 26), protective filling 28, shipping label 30, surface markings 32-1, 32-2 (collectively referred to as surface markings 32), sticker sheet 34, and game projectile sets 36-1 and 36-2 (collectively referred to as sets 36).

Carton 24 comprises a box or other container sized and shaped so as to contain one or more non-game articles 26. Carton 24 may be formed from a plurality of panels which are molded or folded into shape so as to form an enclosure having an interior volume for containing such non-game articles 26. In some implementations, carton 24 is formed from a cellulose-based material. In some implementations, carton 24 is formed from a cardboard or paperboard material. In some implementations, carton 24 may be formed from a sustainable or recycled material. Carton 24 may have a rectangular shape of any of various proportions for its length, width and height. In some implementations, carton 24 may comprise a cube. In the example illustrated, carton 24 comprises a plurality of panels including a front panel 40-1, a rear panel 40-2, side panels 40-3, 40-4, and top and bottom panels 40-5, 40-6, respectively (all such panels collectively referred to as panels 40). In some implementations, the various panels 40 may be formed from a single integral unitary sheet which is folded or bent to provide the cube or rectangular shape for carton 24.

As schematically illustrated by FIG. 2, carton 24 encloses or contains non-game articles 26 (each of which is schematically represented). Non-game articles 26 may comprise any of a variety of different articles, natural or manufactured, having a variety of different shapes and sizes. Articles 26 are non-game articles in that articles 26 are not configured for use of or as part of the game into which system 20 is convertible. In some implementations, the primary purpose of system 20 is to contain such articles 26 for their shipment to an end user or recipient, wherein such articles are to be removed from carton 24 for separate use. Examples of such non-game articles include, but are not limited to, drinkware, clothing, shoes, novelties, dishware, utensils, tools, separate games, and the like.

As further shown by FIG. 2, system 20 may additionally comprise protective filling 28 within the interior of carton 24 and about such articles 26 or against sides of articles 26. Protective filling 28 may space articles 26 from one another. Protective filling 28 may further insulate articles 26 and/or protect articles 26 against any forces encountered during shipping. Examples of protective filling 28 include, but is not limited to, particulate material such as Styrofoam packing peanuts or sawdust, or various bubble wrap fillings that generally comprise polymer films forming one or more interior air filled bubbles or pockets. In some implementations, protective filling 28 may comprise a recycled paper shred, tissue or the like. In some implementations, system 20 may include a single non-game article 26. In some implementations, protective filling 28 may be omitted.

As noted above, in some implementations, the primary purpose of system 20 is for shipment of the non-game articles 26. To this end, system 20 may additionally comprise shipping label 30. Shipping label 30 may comprise a recipient's name 42, an address of the recipient 44, a return address 46, and one or more scannable codes 47 such as QR codes or barcodes to facilitate identification and tracking of system 20 during shipment. Shipping label 30 comprises a sticker bonded to an exterior surface of one of panels 40 or may be printed upon one of panels 40. In the example illustrated, shipping label 30 is provided on ide panel 40-5 of carton 24. In such a location, shipping label 30 does not interfere with the use of other portions of carton 24 as a playing surface or performing a game component following conversion as described hereafter. In some implementations, system 20 may be provided to a shipper without shipping label 30, wherein shipping label 30 may be subsequently added to facilitate such shipping. In some implementations, shipping label 30 may be provided at other locations may be omitted.

Although the primary purpose of system 20 may be to facilitate the shipment of non-game articles 26, system 20 is specifically configured for conversion into a game component for a game. System 20 facilitates the repurposing of cartons or boxes to provide the added benefit/value of a fun educational tabletop, desktop or other game for multiple players, providing entertainment value as well as potentially reducing environmental waste. To facilitate its conversion into a game component, at least one of the plurality of panels 40 comprises perforations for at least one punch out, wherein the at least one punch out is configured such that complete or partial removal of the at least one punch out converts the carton or portions of the carton into a game component. Partial removal of a punch out may occur when the punch out is allowed to dangle or hang from the panel.

In the example illustrated, carton 24 comprises carton dividing perforations 48-1, 48-2, 48-3 and 48-4 (collectively referred to as perforations 48) and punch out perforations 50-1, 50-2 (collectively referred to as perforations 50). In some implementations, perforations 48, 50 are configured to facilitate manual removal or separation without the use of tools, tearing along such perforations in response to mere pushing or pulling of adjacent portions by a person's hands. In some implementations, perforations are configured to facilitate removal and/or separation with the use of a tool, such as a scissors or knife. In either of such circumstances, the perforations 48, 50 defined separation and removal lines for predefined shapes.

Dividing perforations 48-1 extend diagonally across panel 40-3 while perforations 48-2 extends diagonally across panel 40-4. Perforations 48-3 extend along a juncture of panel 40-1 and panel 40-6, connecting perforations 48-1 and 48-2. Perforations 48-4 extends along a junction of panel 40-2 and panel 40-5, connecting perforations 48-1 and 48-2. In the example illustrated, perforations 48 are configured to symmetrically split carton 24 into two equally sized triangular prisms. In other implementations, rather than perforations 48-3 and 48-4 extending along a corner or junction of adjacent perpendicular panels, perforations 48-3 and 48-4 may alternatively extend across panels 40-6 and 40-5 along lines parallel to and inwardly spaced from such corners or junctions (the junctions of panels 40-1, 40-6, and the junction of panels 40-2 and 40-5).

Punch out perforations 50 comprise a line or multiple lines of perforations configured to form a punch out, a portion of a panel that is to be completely removed or which is to be folded or bent out of plane with the remainder of the panel (a partial removal). Punch out perforations 50-1 are configured to form a first punch out 54-1 in panel 40-1 that is closer to panel 40-5 than panel 40-6. Likewise, punch out perforations 50-2 are configured to form a second punch out 54-2 in panel 40-2 that is closer to panel 40-6 than panel 40-5. In the example illustrated, punch outs 54-1 and 54-2 (collectively referred to as punch out 54) are identical in size and shape, each being circular and having a diameter of at least 2 inches. In other implementations, punch outs 54 may have other sizes and other shapes.

FIG. 3 illustrates an example sheet 60 of material configured to form the example carton 24 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. As described above, the sheet 60 may be formed from a cellulose base material. In some implementations, sheet 60 may be formed from cardboard or paperboard. In the example illustrated, sheet 60 comprises folding junctures 62-1, 62-2, and 62-3 to facilitate folding between panel 40-1, 408-3, 40-2 and 40-4. In some implementations, such folding junctures may be pre-scored to facilitate folding.

In the example illustrated, sheet 60 further comprises a connection flap 64 extending from panel 40-4 along a fold line 62-4. Flap 64 is configured to be bonded to an interior face of panel 40-1 when forming carton 24. Sheet 60 further comprises end flaps 66-1, 66-2, 66-3 and 66-4 which extend from opposite sides of panels 40-1, 40-2, 40-3 and 40-4, respectively, along fold lines 62-5, 62-6, 62-7, 62-8, 62-9, 62-10, 62-11 and 62-12. Fold lines 62-5 through 62-12 facilitate folding of flap 66-1 through 66-4 to form panels 48-5 and 40-6. In the example illustrated, each of panels 40-1 through 40-4 have a length of at least 11 inches and a width of at least 5 inches, wherein flap 66 each have a width of at least 2 inches while flap 64 has a width of at least 1 inch. In one example implementation, each of panels 40 has a length of 11.75 inches and a width of 5 inches, each of flaps 66 a length of 2.5 inches, and flap 64 has a width of 1.375 inches. In other implementations, such panels may have different dimensions and different proportionalities. In other implementations, carton 24 may be formed from a single sheet having an alternative configuration with a different set of fold lines.

FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate the dividing of carton 24 along dividing perforations 48 and the removal of punch out 54 along punch out perforations 50. As shown by FIG. 6, separation along perforations 48 bifurcates carton 24 into a pair of equally sized rectangular ramps 70-1 and 70-2. Removal of punch outs 54 forms a first opening 72-1 and a second opening 72-2 in the top playing surfaces 73-1 and 73-2 provided by panels 40-1 and 40-2 of carton 24, respectively. Opening 72-1 is located proximate to panel 40-5, toward the top of the ramp 70-1, while opening 72-2 is located proximate to panel 40-6, the toward the top of ramp 70-2. In some implementations, rather than punch outs 54 being completely removed to form openings 72, the punch out perforations 50 may alternatively be configured such that punch outs 54 are sufficiently detached from their respective panels 40 such that punch outs 54 may be bent out of the plane of the respective panels 40, dangling or hanging below the respective panels 40 from a side portion of such openings 72.

FIG. 6 illustrates ramps 70-1 and 70-2 laid out and arranged for forming a game sometimes referred to as bags or corn hole. Ramps 70-1 and 70-2 may be aligned with one another but are spaced from one another at a predetermined spacing or distance. Each of ramps 70 forms a component of a bags or corn hole game. During the bags or corn hole game, opposing parties toss projectiles, in the form of filled bags, towards the opposing ramp 70 with the objective of landing individual bags on the playing surfaces 73-1 and 73-2 and preferably through openings 72-1 and 72-2.

As shown by each of FIGS. 1-6, system 20 may additionally comprise printed surface markings 32. Printed surface markings 32 may provide on any outer surface of any of panels 40. In the example illustrated, surface markings 32 are provided on the playing surfaces 73 of the ramps 70 provided by panels 40-1 and 40-2. Such surface markings may be formed by painting, printing or otherwise marking such surfaces of panels 40. Such markings may be specifically configured for facilitating use of carton 24 as a game. For example, such markings may indicate or point to targets or objectives of the game, may identify point values associated particular targets or may outline particular rules or warnings/cautions for the game. In the example illustrated, markings 32 comprise arrows pointing to the target objective, opening 72. In some implementations, such markings may be provided for decoration. For example, such markings may be licensed logos, trademarks, designs or the like associated with businesses, amateur and professional sports teams and the like. In some implementations, such markings may be customized based upon the recipient of carton 24, the sender of carton 24 or the contents of carton 24. In some implementations, markings 32 may be omitted.

As shown by FIG. 1, system 20 may additionally comprise sticker sheet 34. Sticker sheet 34 comprises one or more sheets containing any of a variety of different stickers 76-1, 76-2, 76-3. Sticker sheet 34 may be loose within the interior of carton 24, may be affixed to an exterior of one or more of panels 40 of carton 24 or may be affixed to an interior surface of one of panels 40 within carton 24. Each of stickers 76 is configured to be peelable from sticker sheet 34 for re-adherence to an exterior of one of panels 40, such as for adherence to playing surfaces 73 of ramps 70 as well as the sides or rear surfaces of ramps 70. As with surface markings 32, such stickers 76 may indicate or point to targets or objectives of the game, may identify point values associated particular targets or may outline particular rules or warnings/cautions for the game. The provision of sticker sheet 34 allows a person to customize, to his or her preferences, the playing surfaces 73 for the game. Moreover, in those implementations in which sticker sheet 34 is within carton 24 or is affixed to an interior surface of one or more of panels 40, the integrity of such stickers 76 is protected and preserved during shipping. In some implementations, sticker sheet 34 may be omitted.

As shown by FIGS. 1 and 2, system 20 may additionally comprise game projectiles. In the example illustrated, system 20 comprises set 36 of game projectiles. Such game projectiles may be in the form of bags. Set 36-1 comprises bags 80-1, 80-2, 80-3 and 80-4 (collectively referred to as bags 80). Set 36-2 comprises bags 82-1, 82-2, 82-3 and 82-4 (collectively referred to as bags 82). Each of bags 80 and 82 may be rectangular or square in shape. Each of bags 80 and 82 may contain or may be configured to receive particles or particulate material, wherein once at least partially filled with such particles or particulate material, each of bags 80, 82 is dimensioned and sufficiently deformable for passage through either of openings 72 formed by the removal of punch outs 54.

As shown by FIG. 7, in some implementations, each of bags 80, 82 may comprise an outer enclosure 86 containing a particulate material 88. The enclosure 86 may be formed from cloth/fabric, a polymer or the like, wherein opposing panels of enclosure 86 are joined by stitching, adhesives, welds or the like. Each of bags 80, 82 is configured to be manually held and tossed towards opposing ramp 70 so as to land upon one of playing surfaces 73 or preferably, through one of openings 72.

As shown by FIG. 8, in some implementations, each of bags 80, 82 may alternatively comprise an enclosure 96 having a mouth 97 which is selectively openable and closable with a closing mechanism 98. Enclosure 96 may be formed from cloth/fabric, a polymer or the like, wherein the opposing panels of enclosure 96 are joined by stitching, adhesives, welds or the like, but wherein a mouth 97 is formed and is selectively openable and closable by closing mechanism 98. Examples of closing mechanism 98, include, but are not limited to, zippers, hook and loop fasteners, ZIPLOC (male-and-female track or singletrack zipper) closing mechanisms or other closing mechanisms. The provision of mouth 97 and closing mechanism 98 enables the bags to be contained and shipped in an empty state to reduce the volume and weight of system 20 during shipping, wherein the bags 80, 82 may be subsequently filled by the end user or recipient with particles or particulate material (rice, corn, beans or the like).

In the example illustrated in which system 20 is to be converted into a game of bags or corn hole, bags 80 and 82 have the same individual size and preferably approximately same individual weight (amount of particulate material). However, bags 80, 82 are visually distinguishable from one another. For example, bags 80 and 82 may have different patterns, colors, markings or the like on their exterior surfaces.

In some implementations, bags 80 and 80 (whether prefilled as shown in FIG. 7 or empty as shown in FIG. 8) are loosely contained within carton 24 during shipping, mixed amongst the nongame articles 26 and/or protective filling 28. In some implementations, bags 80 and 82 (whether prefilled as shown in FIG. 7 or empty as shown in FIG. 8) are adhered or clipped to an interior surface of one of panels 40, wherein such bags 80, 82 may be separated from such panels upon the bifurcation of carton 24 into the ramps 70 as shown in FIG. 6. The securement of bags 80, 82 to an interior panel of carton 24 may prevent collisions or interaction of such bags with the articles 26 during shipping, may preserve valuable interior volume or space within carton 24 for shipping and may provide easier location of bags 80, 82 when then recipient desires to convert system 20 into a game. In some implementations, system 20 may omit bags 80, 82.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of an example convertible carton game system 120. FIG. 10 illustrates an alternative game of “target toss” to which a shipping carton or box may be converted. Game system 120 is similar to game system 20 described above except that system 120 comprising carton 124 instead of carton 24. Carton 124 is similar to carton 24 except that each of panels 40-1, 40-2 comprises punch out perforations 150-1, 150-2 and 150-3 forming punch outs 154-1, 154-2, 154-3 (collectively referred to as punch outs 154). Those remaining portion of carton 24 as well as the remaining components or pieces of system 120 which correspond to components of system 20 are numbered similarly and such or are shown in FIGS. 1-5, 7 and 8. In some implementations, carton 124, like carton 24, may contain non-game articles 26 and protective filling 28. Likewise, carton 124 may contain or support surface markings 32, sticker sheet 34 and/or projectile sets 36 (shown in FIGS. 1 and 2).

Punch out perforations 150 are similar to punch out perforations 50 described above. Punch outs 154 are spaced along panels 40-1 and 40-2. In the example illustrated, punch outs 154-1 are provided in panels 40-1 and 40-2 located proximate to panels 40-5 and 40-6. Punch outs 154-3 are provided in panels 40-1 and 40-2 and are located proximate to panels 40-5 and 40-6, proximate to what will be the lower end of ramps 170-1, 170-2 (shown in FIG. 10). Punch outs 154-2 are situated in panels 40-1 and 40-2 between punch outs 154-1 and 154-3. In the example illustrated, each of punch outs 154-1, 154-2 and 154-3 have different configurations. In the example illustrated, each of punch outs 154-1, 154-2 and 154-3 is circular, but has a different diameter. In other implementations, each of punch outs 154-1, 154-2 and 154-3 may have a different shape and the same opening area or a different shape and a different opening area. Although punch outs 154 are illustrated as being arranged series, in a row along the longitudinal length of each of panels 40-1 and 40-2, in other implementations, punch outs 154 may alternatively have other patterns or arrangements. For example, punch outs 154 may alternatively be offset from one another, may form a plurality of rows extending along the longitudinal axis of panels 40-1, 40-2 or may be arranged in a concentric-eccentric relationship such as with smaller punch outs orbiting a larger punch out (similar to a dartboard). In some implementations, rather than punch outs 154 being completely removed to form openings 172, the punch out perforations 150 may alternatively be configured such that punch outs 154 are sufficiently detached from their respective panels 40 such that punch outs 154 may be bent out of the plane of the respective panels 140, dangling or hanging below the respective panels 140 from a side portion of such openings 172.

FIG. 10 illustrates carton 124 following bifurcation of carton 124 in a fashion similar to the above-described bifurcation of carton 24 in FIGS. 4 and 5. As with carton 24, carton 124 is bifurcated into a pair of ramps 170-1 and 170-2. Removal of punch outs 154 forms openings 172-1, 172-2 and 172-3 (collectively referred to as openings 172) along a ramp playing surface 173. In the example illustrated, landing a projectile 80, 82 in one of openings 172 scores points. Openings 172-1, 172-2 and 172-3 may be assigned different point values given the relative positionings as well as the relative sizes and/or shapes.

In the example illustrated, playing surfaces 173 each additionally comprise either surface markings 132 or stickers 176 proximate to associated openings 172 identifying the point assigned to each of openings 172. Markings 132 may be similar to markings 32 described above. Likewise, stickers 176 may be similar to stickers 76 described above. Stickers 176 may be provides as part of a sticker sheet 34 as described above.

FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate portions of an example convertible carton game system 220. FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate an example of how a shipping carton may be converted for reuse as a game wherein the carton provides game components in the form of a three-dimensional playing surface and handheld racket/paddles for the game. System 220 comprises carton 224, non-game articles 26 (shown in and described with respect to FIG. 2), protective filling 28 (shown in described with respect to FIG. 2), shipping label 30, surface markings 232, sticker sheet 34 and game projectile 236.

Carton 224 comprises panels 240-1, 240-2, 240-3, 240-4, 240-5 and 240-6 (collectively referred to as panels 240). Similar cartons 24 and 124, carton 224 may be formed a cellulose based material, such as a cardboard or a paperboard material. Panel 240-1 has an exterior surface serving as playing surface 273 for the game. Panel 240-1 comprises slit perforations 248 while panel 240-2 comprises punch out perforations 250 and 251-1, 251-2.

Slit perforations 248 comprise two series of perforations extending through panel 240-1 at a longitudinal center point of panel 240-1 and in relief from opposite transfer sides of panel 240-1. Slit perforations 248 facility cutting, breaking or tearing of the material between such perforations to form a pair of elongate slits receiving the game component formed by punch out perforations 250. In some implementations, slit perforations 248 comprise single individual lines of perforations. In other implementations, slit perforations 248 each comprise a pair of parallel closely spaced rows of perforations for forming a wider opening for the reception of the game component provided by punch out perforations 250.

Punch out perforations 250 comprise a series of perforations that outline a punch out 254 in the shape of a net 255 having a pair of posts or tabs 256. Tabs 256 are sized and located for being received within the slits formed by slit perforations 248. Punch out perforations 251-1 and 251-2 each comprise a series of perforations that outline punch outs 257-1, 257-2 (collectively referred to as punch out 254) in the shapes of handheld rackets or paddles, each racket or paddle comprising a handle portion 258 and a head portion 259.

FIG. 13 illustrates system 220 following the cutting, severing, tearing or breaking of slit perforations 248 and the punching out of punch outs 254 and 257. FIG. 13 further illustrates assembling of system 220 to form the game, game of paddle ball, pickle ball or another paddle-based game with a net. As shown by FIG. 13, the punch out 254 is mounted playing surface 273 provided by panel 240-1 by inserting tabs 256 into the slits formed by slit perforations 248. This provides a playing surface 273 with a net and a three dimensional configuration. As further shown by FIG. 13, punch outs 257 serve as paddles or rackets for the game.

In the example illustrated, the playing surface 273 may be additionally provided with line markings corresponding to line markings of the game. For example, for a game of “pickle ball”, playing surface 273 may be provided with lines 280 to define the “kitchen”. Such lines 280 may be provided by surface markings 232. In other implementations, lines 280 may be formed by stickers provided on sticker sheet 34. In yet other implementations, lines 280 may be omitted. In other implementations, lines or other graphics may be provided on playing surface 273.

In the example illustrated, sticker sheet 34 may additionally provide stickers for ornamentation of the game provided by system 220. For example, sticker sheet 34 may comprise a sticker having graphics depicting the crisscrossing lines of a net, wherein the sticker may be applied to both faces of the punch out 254. Sticker sheet 34 may comprise graphics depicting a leather or polymer wrap of a handle and depicting the surface of a paddle, wherein such stickers may be applied to handle portion 258 and heads 259, respectively, of punch outs 257. In some implementations, sticker sheet 34 may include a peelable stickers configured for being applied to the heads 259, wherein such peelable stickers have an enhanced degree of tackiness or roughness as compared to the surface of heads 259 without such stickers. As a result, such stickers may be applied to provide the paddles/rackets provided by punch outs 257 with an enhanced level of friction for facilitating spin on a projectile during use of the game provided by system 220.

Game project projectile 236 comprises a spherical projectile or ball weighted and sized for impact by the paddle/rackets provided by punch outs 257 and for bouncing off of playing surface 273. In some implementations, game projectile 236 may have a configuration similar to that of a pickle ball or wiffleball, having an array of openings or perforations about circumferential body. In other implementations, game projectile 236 may lack openings and may be smooth. In yet other implementations, projectile 236 may have a surface texture. Game projectile 236 may have a color and appearance to that of the projectile used in real life games. For example, game projectile 236 may have an appearance as that of a pickle ball, a tennis ball or a ping-pong ball. In some implementations, game projectile 226 may comprise a real-life ping-pong/table tennis ball. In some implementations, game projectile 236 may comprise the ball formed from an elastic material, such as a rubber or rubber-like material to facilitate bounds. Game projectile 236 may be loosely contained within the interior of carton 224 during shipping, may be affixed to an interior surface of one of panel, may be contained inside an article 26 being shipped within the carton 224, or may be retained within a shaped or molded tray contained within carton 224 during shipment. In some implementations, game projectile 236 may be omitted.

FIGS. 14 and 15 are perspective views illustrating portions of an example convertible carton game system 320. System 320 is similar to system 220 described above and except for that panel 240-1 additionally comprises rebound wall perforations 252 and fold line 253. System 320 is also slightly different from system 220 in that punch outs 257 have slightly different shapes with rounded heads or head portions 259. Those remaining components of system 320 that correspond to components of system 220 are numbered similarly and/or are shown and described above with respect to system 220.

Rebound wall perforations 252 comprises series of perforations extending along an end portion of panel 240-1 along one side of slit perforations 248. Rebound wall perforations 252 extend along a junction of panel 240-1 and panel 240-4, along a juncture of panel 240-1 and panel 240-5 and along a juncture panel 240-1 and panel 240-3. Fold line 253 extends across panel 240-1 between the ends of perforations 252, parallel to slit perforations 248 and proximate to slit perforations 248. In some implementations, fold line 253 may comprise a scoring line to facilitate folding of those portions of panel 240-1 outlined by perforations 252. Rebound wall perforations 252 and fold line 253 define a rebound wall 257 for facilitating individual play.

FIG. 16 illustrates system 320 following the cutting, severing, tearing or breaking of slit perforations 248 and rebound wall perforations 252, and the punching out of punch outs 254 and 255. FIG. 13 further illustrates assembling of system 220 to form the game, game of paddle ball, pickle ball or another paddle-based game with a net. As shown by FIG. 16, the punch out 254 is mounted playing surface 273 provided by panel 240-1 by inserting tabs 256 into the slits formed by slit perforations 248. This provides a playing surface 273 with a net and a three dimensional configuration. As further shown by FIG. 16, punch outs 257 serve as paddles or rackets for the game.

As further shown by FIG. 16, rebound wall 257 is folded upwardly along fold line 253 so as to project upright from playing surface 273, behind the net formed by punch out 254. In some implementations, rebound wall 257 may extend in a plane substantially parallel to the plane of the net provided by punch out 254. As with playing surface 273, punch out 254 and punch outs 257, rebound wall 257 may include surface markings 32 or may have stickers from sticker sheet 34 applied thereto. In circumstances where rebound wall 257 is not desired, rebound wall 257 may be pivoted back to the state shown in FIG. 14, some substantially planar with playing surface 273. In some implementations, perforations 252 may not be torn or severed, resulting in a similar configuration to that shown in FIG. 13. In some implementations, fold line 253 may be replaced with a line of perforations such that rebound wall 257 may be in the form of a punch out having tabs (similar to tabs 256) for insertion into appropriately provided slits in panel 40-1.

In the example illustrated, the playing surface 273 may be additionally provided with line markings corresponding to line markings of the game. For example, for a game of “pickle ball”, playing surface 273 may be provided with lines 282 define the “kitchen”. Such lines 280 may be provided by surface markings 232. In other implementations, lines 280 may be formed by stickers provided on sticker sheet 34. In yet other implementations, lines 280 may be omitted. In other implementations, lines or other graphics may be provided on playing surface 273.

In the example illustrated, sticker sheet 34 may additionally provide stickers for ornamentation of the game provided by system 320. For example, sticker sheet 34 may comprise a sticker having graphics depicting the crisscrossing lines of a net, wherein the sticker may be applied to both faces of the punch out 254. Sticker sheet 34 may comprise graphics depicting a leather or polymer wrap of a handle and depicting the surface of a paddle, wherein such stickers may be applied to handle portion 258 and heads 259, respectively, of punch outs 257. In some implementations, sticker sheet 34 may include a peelable stickers configured for being applied to the heads 259, wherein such peelable stickers have an enhanced degree of tackiness or roughness as compared to the surface of heads 259 without such stickers. As a result, such stickers may be applied to provide the paddles/rackets provided by punch outs 257 with an enhanced level of friction for facilitating spin on a projectile during use of the game provided by system 320.

FIGS. 17 and 18 are perspective views illustrating portions of an example convertible carton game system 420. FIGS. 17 and 18 illustrate an example of how a shipping carton may be converted to a game, wherein the shipping carton provides both a playing surface and at least one game projectile. System 420 is similar to system 220 except that the plurality of panels 40 of carton 224 comprise goalpost perforations 454, goalpost support perforations 455 and projectile perforations 456-1, 456-2 in place of perforations 248, 250 and 251. Those remaining components of system 420 which correspond to components of system 220 are numbered similarly and/are shown in FIGS. 14-16 and described above with respect to system 220. In the example illustrated, system 420 may omit game projectile 236 in that game projectile 436 is provided by carton 224. As with systems 120, 220 and 320, carton 224 contains nongame articles 26 and protective filling 28. As with systems 20, 120, 220 and 320, system 420 comprises shipping label 30, surface markings 32 and sticker sheet 34 as described above and shown in FIG. 1. As with respect to systems 120, 220 and 320, system 420, in some implementations, system 420 may omit the nongame articles 26, the protective filling 28, the shipping label 30, the surface markings 32 and/or sticker sheet 34.

Goalpost perforations 454 comprises a series of perforations formed in panel 40-2, wherein perforations 454 are configured to form a punch out 465 in the shape of an American football goalpost having a central post portion 466, a crossbar 467 and a pair of spaced upright posts 468. Goalpost support perforations 455 are formed in panel 40-1 and comprise a series of perforations outlining a punch out 457 configured to remain attached to panel 40-1 while engaging punch out 465 to support punch out 465 in an upright orientation, projecting from the playing surface 473 provided by panel 40-1. In the example illustrated, the punch out 457 has a general L-shape with a base 475 that remains attached to carton 224 and a hook portion 477 that pivots away from base 475 for hooking and wrapping about the punch out 465 when it is in an upright orientation. In other implementations, goalpost support perforations 455 may define other goal post supports having other configurations for assisting in the support of the punch out 465 which provides a goalpost. In some implementations, perforations 455 may be replaced with a single row of perforations or multiple rows of perforations configured to be torn or severed so as to form a slit into which the post portion 466 of punch out 465 may be inserted so as to support punch out 465 in an upright orientation.

Projectile perforations 456 comprise series of perforations formed in panel 40-2 that outline punch outs 436 which are in the shape of triangles so as to serve as projectiles representing footballs. In the example illustrated, system 420 provides a pair of punch outs serving as game projectiles 436, providing a pair of “footballs”. In other implementations, system 420 may provide a single triangular punch out 436 in panel 40-1. In still other implementations, the identified diagonal perforation line 481 may be replaced with a fold line, such as a pre-scored line, wherein two diagonally opposite corners of the illustrated square or rectangle may be folded about the fold line 481 to form a single double-walled triangular “football” game projectile 436. In such implementations, the projectile 436, formed by a folded panel may have an increased thickness and weight to better facilitate its use as a football game projectile.

FIG. 19 illustrates system 420 following the cutting, severing, tearing or breaking of perforations 454, 455 and 456, and the punching out of punch outs 465, 457 and 436. FIG. 19 further illustrates assembling of system 420 to form the football field goal game. As shown by FIG. 19, the punch out 465 is mounted playing surface 473 provided by panel 40-1 by bending hook portion 477 of punch out 457 about base 457 and by positioning post portion 466 along panel 40-5 with hook portion 477 hooked about post portion 466. This provides a playing surface 473 with an upright goalpost.

As shown by FIG. 18, the playing surface 473 may be provided with graphics depicting a football field with yard markers. The yard markers may be utilized to designate different point values for different kicks from different spots on the playing surface 473. In some implementations, such graphics may be provided by surface markings 32 as described above. In some implementations, such graphics may additionally or alternatively be provided by stickers provided on sticker sheet 34. In some implementations, such surface markings or stickers may be omitted. In some implementations, different sticker sheets or surface markings may be provided as part of system 420 depending upon the geographic location of the destination for the shipping carton. For example, licensed amateur or professional football team logos or the like may be provided as stickers for customizing system 420 based upon the preferences of the recipient or the geographic location of the recipient.

FIGS. 20 and 21 are perspective views illustrating portions of an example of a convertible carton game system 520. FIGS. 20 and 21 illustrate an example of how the entire carton may be converted to a game component. In the example illustrated, system 520 comprises a shipping carton 524 in the form of a cube having six faces. Each of the faces has a unique set of punch outs 554 which form a game die as shown in FIG. 20 (providing faces having 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6 dots or circles). Carton 524 may be formed from a cellular based material, such as a cardboard or paperboard material. Punch outs 554 are formed by a series of perforations configured to be torn, bent, or severed.

As shown may FIG. 21, removal of the punch out 554 (or sufficient bending of the punch shouts into the interior of the cube while remaining dangling from the panels of the cube) forms a large game die which may be used as part of a game or for amusement. Multiple cartons 524 may be provided and converted for fire forming a set of dies. In some implementations, some of the punchouts may be marked with dots and cut out or removed.

As with systems 120, 220 and 320, carton 524 in system 520 contains nongame articles 26 and protective fillings 28. As with systems 20, 120, 220 and 320, system 520 comprises shipping label 30, surface markings 32 and sticker sheet 34 as described above and shown in FIG. 1. As with respect to systems 120, 220 and 320, system 520, in some implementations, may omit the nongame articles 26, the protective filling 28, the shipping label 30, the surface markings 32 and/or sticker sheet 34.

FIGS. 22 and 23 illustrate portions of an example convertible carton game system 620. System 620 is similar to system 520 except that system 620 comprises a rectangular carton 624 having punch outs 654 as shown in FIG. 22. Although punchout 654 are illustrated on particular surfaces, it should be appreciative that punchouts 654 may be formed on any of the various surfaces of carton 624. Carton 624 may be formed from a cellular based material, such as a cardboard or paperboard material. Punch outs 654 are formed by a series of perforations configured to be torn, bent, or severed.

As shown by FIG. 23, the punch outs 654 may be selectively removed (or bent inwardly) to form a large domino having a point value depending upon which punch outs 654 are removed or bent. In such a fashion, multiple cartons 624 may have different punch outs 654 removed or bent inwardly to form a set of large dominoes for forming a game, for stacking, or for forming a chain of serially collapsible dominoes. In other implementations may have other shapes, sizes and layouts.

As with systems 120, 220 and 320, carton 624 in system 620 contains nongame articles 26 and protective fillings 28. As with systems 20, 120, 220 and 320, system 620 comprises shipping label 30, surface markings 32 and sticker sheet 34 as described above and shown in FIG. 1. As with respect to systems 120, 220 and 320, system 620, in some implementations, may omit the nongame articles 26, the protective filling 28, the shipping label 30, the surface markings 32 and/or sticker sheet 34.

FIGS. 24 and 25 are perspective views illustrate portions of an example convertible carton game system 720. As with the above-described systems, system 720 facilitates reuse of a shipping or storage carton as a game component or as part of an entire game. In the example illustrated, system 20 facilitates the reuse of carton as a “sling hockey” or “sling puck” game. System 720 comprises carton 724, non-game articles 26 (shown and described above with respect to FIG. 2), protective filling 28 (shown and described above with respect to FIG. 2), shipping label 30 (described above), sticker sheet 34 (described above), and elastic bands 735.

Carton 724 comprises a box or other container sized and shaped so as to contain one or more non-game articles 26. Carton 724 may be formed from a plurality of panels which are molded or folded into shape so as to form an enclosure having an interior volume for containing such non-game articles 26. In some implementations, carton 724 is formed from a cellulose-based material. In some implementations, carton 724 is formed from a cardboard or paperboard material. Carton 724 may have a rectangular shape of any of various proportions for its length, width and height. In some implementations, carton 724 may comprise a cube. In the example illustrated, carton 724 comprises a plurality of panels including a front panel 740-1, a rear panel 740-2, side panels 740-3, 740-4, and top and bottom panels 740-5, 740-6, respectively (all such panels collectively referred to as panels 740). In some implementations, the various panels 740 may be formed from a single integral unitary sheet which is folded or bent to provide the cube or rectangular shape for carton 724.

Although the primary purpose of system 720 may be to facilitate the shipment of non-game articles 26, system 720 is specifically configured for conversion into a game component for a game. System 720 facilitates the repurposing of cartons or boxes to provide the added benefit/value of a fun educational tabletop, desktop or other game for multiple players, providing entertainment value as well as potentially reducing environmental waste. To facilitate its conversion into a game component, at least one of the plurality of panels 740 comprises perforations for at least one punch out, wherein the at least one punch out is configured such that complete or partial removal of the at least one punch out converts the carton or portions of the carton into a game component. Partial removal of a punch out may occur when the punch out is allowed to dangle or hang from the panel.

In the example illustrated, carton 724 comprises carton dividing perforations 748-1, 748-2, 748-3 and 748-4 (collectively referred to as perforations 748), slit perforations 749, gate perforations 750-1, 750-2 (collectively referred to as gate perforations 750) and game piece perforations 751. In some implementations, perforations 748, 749, 750 and 751 are configured to facilitate manual removal or separation without the use of tools, tearing along such perforations in response to mere pushing or pulling of adjacent portions by a person's hands. In some implementations, perforations are configured to facilitate removal and/or separation with the use of a tool, such as a scissors or knife. In either of such circumstances, the perforations 748, 749, 750 and 61 define separation and removal lines for predefined slits or punch out shapes.

Dividing perforations 748 extend in a plane parallel to the plane of panel 740-1. The location of perforations 748 define a depth so as to form a shallow pan or tray 749 (shown in FIG. 26). Slit perforations 749 perpendicularly extend from perforations 748-1 and 748-2 proximate to panel 740-5, 740-6. Slit perforations 749 are configured to facilitate securement of bands 735 across an interior face of panel 740-1 so as to form slings or slingshots when carton 724 is converted to a game. In some implementations, slit perforations 749 may be replaced with apertures through which bands 735 may extend and be knotted or otherwise secured. In some implementations, slit perforations 749 may be omitted.

Gate perforations 750-1 are formed in panel 740-3 while gate perforations 750-2 are formed in panel 740-4. Gate perforations 750 comprise a line or multiple lines of perforations configured to form a punch out, a portion of a panel that is to be completely removed from the remainder of the panel. Gate perforations 750-1 are configured to form a first gate punch out 754-1 in panel 740-3 while gate perforations 750-2 are configured to form a second gate punch out 754-2 in panel 740-4. Each of such punch outs 754 comprises a pair of slit perforations 755 which may be separated to form a pair of corresponding slits for the reception of the sidewalls 758 of the resulting tray 749. Each of such punch outs 754 has a length such that the gate extends completely across the transverse width of the tray 749 with the slits formed by slit perforations 755 receiving the sidewalls 758 of the tray 749 as shown in FIG. 26.

The punch outs 754 are configured to serve as two alternative gates for the game. Punch out 754-1 has a single generally centered puck passage 787. The punch out 754-2 has a pair of puck passages 788 equally spaced from a center formed by punch out 750-2. Puck passages 787 and 788 facilitates passage of pucks as part of the game as will be described hereafter. In some implementations, carton 724 may include only one of the two described punch out perforations 750-1, 750-2.

Game piece perforations 751 are formed in panel 740-2. Game piece perforations 751 form game piece punch outs 761 which are to serve as game projectiles in the form of “pucks”. In the example illustrated, each of such punch outs 761 are circular, forming discs. In other implementations, each of such punch out 761 may have other shapes. Each of such punch outs 761 is dimensioned so as to have a diameter or maximum width slightly less than the width of each of puck passages 757 such that each of such punch out 761, with precise aiming, may be slung through one of punch out passages 787, 788. In some implementations, system 720 may additionally comprise double-sided tape, sticker glue dots (schematically represented by reference numeral 790) inside carton 724 to facilitate the bonding or joining of multiple puck punchouts 761 together to form a thicker and/or heavier puck.

In some implementations, punch outs 761 comprise two sets 763-1, 763-2 of such pucks, each set 763 having a different visual appearance. In some implementations, the two sets 763 may be differently colored, shaded, marked or may be provided with different graphics or text. For example, in some implementations, each of the punch out of set 763-1 may have a color red while each of the punch out of set 763-2 has a color black. In some implementations, the punch out 761 may have surface markings 32 (as described above) through printing or the like. In some implementations, visually distinguishable stickers, from sticker sheet 34, may be applied to such punch out 761 to form the two visually distinguishable sets 763. In some implementations, the punch outs 761 may not be visually distinguishable.

As shown in FIG. 24, in some implementations, system 720 may additionally or alternatively comprise an internal pouch 765 containing pre-manufactured are formed game pieces or pucks 767. Such pucks 767 may comprise circular wafers formed from a polymer or circular wafers formed from wood. As with punch outs 761, such pucks 767 may have different surface markings 32 or may have surfaces to which are applied visually distinct stickers from sticker sheet 34. In some implementations, the punch outs 761 may not be visually distinguishable. In some implementations, perforations 751 may be omitted. In other implementations, pouch 765 with pucks 767 may be omitted.

Elastic bands 735 comprise bands of elastic material, such as rubber or rubber-like material, which are provided within the interior of carton 724. Such bands 735 are schematically represented. It should be appreciated that system 720 may comprise a pair of bands or any number of bands having various dimensions. In some implementations, system 720 may additionally comprise a pair of slingshot pads or pouches 770 within the interior of carton 724. In some implementations, pouches 770 may be omitted.

FIG. 26 illustrates system 720 converted to a game. FIG. 26 illustrates the separation of perforations 748 to form the tray 749 with sidewall 758 and with end walls 759. FIG. 26 further illustrates the slits formed by slit perforations 755 receiving sidewalls 758 such that punch out 750-1 forms a gate separating the interior of tray 749 into two opposite sides. Lastly, FIG. 26 illustrates bands 735 stretched across the interior tray 749 proximate opposite ends or end walls 759 so as to form slingshot 769. In the example illustrated, slingshot 769 are formed by one or more bands 735 without pouches 770. In other implementations, pouches 770 may be added.

Bands 735 have a length and elasticity so as to form a puck slingshot 769 on each of the two ends of tray 729. In some implementations, each slingshot 769 is formed by a single band 735 having a length so as to extend through opposing slits 748 so as to extend across the formed tray 749. Securing of the bands to the wall 758 may be achieved in various fashions. For example, opposite ends of the band may be knotted with the knotted ends on exterior sides of wall 758. In some implementations, the single band may be wrapped along the bottom or end wall of the tray 749. Each of such bands has a height greater than the thickness of punch out 761 and/or pucks 767. The height of such bands is sufficient so as to be positioned against a rear edge of a punch out 761/puck 767 and be stretched and released to propel the punch out 761/puck 767 towards one of puck passages 767, 769 in a gate formed by one of punch outs 750.

In some implementations, each slingshot 769 may be formed from multiple bands 735. In some implementations, each of slingshot 769 may be formed by a projectile pad or pocket 770 (included as part of system 720) which is resiliently held in place by one or more band 735. In some implementations, one or more bands may be threaded through pocket 770 or one or more bands 735 may extend from a first side of tray 749 to a first side of a pocket 770 and one or more bands 735 may extend from a second side of tray 749 to a second side of the pocket 770. Such bands have a first end that is tied or otherwise affixed to the pocket 770, may be passed through the slits formed by slit perforations 749, and may have a second end knotted end on the exterior side of a respective wall 758.

As further shown by FIG. 26, any of the surfaces of tray 749 or that of the gate formed by either of punch out 750 may provide with surface markings 32 or stickers from stickers sheet 34. The sling hockey or sling puck game formed by system 720 in FIG. 26 has the objective of a player clearing all of the individual punch outs 761 or pucks 767 from the players side of the tray 749 to the opponent's side of tray 749. This is generally done by propelling such punch outs 761, pucks 767 towards and through the puck passage 787 (or one of puck passages 788) to the opponent's side using the slingshot 769. The game may be modified by replacing the punch out 750-1 with the punch out 750-2, offering a pair of puck passages 759.

FIG. 27 illustrates an example template or sheet 860 of material configured to form the example carton 724 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2. As described above, the sheet 860 may be formed from a cellulose base material. In some implementations, sheet 860 may be formed from cardboard or paperboard. In the example illustrated, sheet 860 comprises folding junctures 862. In some implementations, such folding junctures may be pre-scored to facilitate folding.

Sheet 860 comprises end flaps 866-1, 866-2 which extend from opposite sides of panels 740-3, 740-4, respectively, along fold lines 862. Fold lines 862 facilitate folding of flaps 866-1 and 866-2 such as a flaps 866-1 overlap one another to form panel 740-5 and such flaps 866-2 overlap one another to form panel 740-6. In the example illustrated, sheet 860 further comprises connection flaps 867-1, 867-2, and 869. Connection flaps 867 transversely extend from opposite sides of panels 740-1 and 740-2 while connection flap 869 projects longitudinally from an end of panel 740-4. Flaps 867 and 869 are exterior flaps to be folded over the end as interior or exterior flaps, with custom dimensions so the box may be perforated apart to form the tray. In other implementations, such panels may have different dimensions and different proportionalities. In other implementations, carton 724 may be formed from a single sheet having an alternative configuration with a different set of fold lines.

FIGS. 28 and 29 illustrate portions of convertible carton game system 920. FIG. 28 is an end view while configured 29 is a side view of system 920. System 920 is similar to system 720 except that system 920 comprises carton 924 in place of carton 724. Carton 924 comprises a two-piece carton including a lower box 926 having a top opening 927 and a lid 928 extending over top opening 927 and along the sides of lower box 926. In some implementations, carton 926 comprises a “banker's box” or has the configuration of a banker's box.

In the example illustrated, carton 924 is similar to carton 724 except that carton 924 omits carton dividing perforations 748, whereas the tray 749 of the game shown in FIG. 26 is provided by the inverted lid 928 of carton 924. Similar to carton 724, carton 924 comprises slit perforations 749, and gate perforations 750-1 (shown in FIG. 24) and 750-2 which are provided on the opposite longitudinal sides of lower box 926. In the example illustrated, lid 928 of carton 924 further comprises an additional slit perforation 753 which facilitates the positioning of gate 750-1 or 750-2 across interior of pan 749 as shown in FIG. 26. In implementations where slit perforation 753 is provided, slit perforations 755 in the gates may be omitted. In other implementations, the additional slit perforation 753 may be omitted.

As further shown by Figure system 920 may comprise the additional game components described above with respect to system 720. System 920 may additionally comprise bands 735, stickers sheet 34, pouch 765 containing pucks 767. The bottom panel of lower box 924 may comprise the game piece perforations 751 which may form punch outs 761 as shown in FIG. 25. As noted above, in some implementations, one or both of pouch 765, with its pucks 767, and game piece perforations 751 may be omitted.

FIGS. 30 and 31 are perspective views illustrating portions of an example convertible carton game system 1020. As with the above-described systems, system 1020 facilitates reuse of a shipping or storage carton as a game component or as part of an entire game. In the example illustrated, system 820 facilitates the reuse of a carton as a checkers game. System 1020 comprises carton 1024, non-game articles 26 (shown and described above with respect to FIG. 2), protective filling 28 (shown and described above with respect to FIG. 2), shipping label 30 (described above), and sticker sheet 34 (described above.

Carton 1024 is similar to carton 724 but omits slit perforations 749, gate perforations 750 and game piece perforations 751. Carton 1024 comprises divider perforations 748 and additionally comprises checker piece perforations 1051. As shown by FIG. 30, panel 740-1 supports surface markings 32 in the form of a checkerboard. In some other implementations, rather than being printed onto the exterior face of panel 40-1, the checkerboard provided by surface markings 32 may be performed on the inside of panel 740-1. In some implementations, the surface markings 32 in the form of the checkerboard may be omitted where sticker sheet 34 comprises a sticker in the form of a checkerboard or the interior of carton 1024 contains a large sticker for forming the checkerboard.

Checker piece perforations 1051 are formed in panel 740-2. Checker piece perforations 1051 form game piece punch outs 1061 which are to serve as checker pieces. In the example illustrated, each of such punch outs 1061 are circular, forming discs. In other implementations, each of such punch outs 1060 may have other shapes. Punch outs 1061 comprise two sets 1063-1, 1063-2 of such checker pieces, each of sets 1063 having a different visual appearance. In some implementations, the two sets 1063 may be differently colored, shaded, marked or may be provided with different graphics or text. For example, in some implementations, each of the punch out of set 1063-1 may have a color red while each of the punch outs of set 1063-2 has a color black. In some implementations, the punch outs 1061 may have surface markings 32 (as described above) through printing or the like. In some implementations, visually distinguishable stickers, from sticker sheet 34, may be applied to such punch outs 1061 to form the two visually distinguishable sets 1063. In some implementations, the punch outs 1061 may not be visually distinguishable.

As shown in FIG. 31, in some implementations, system 1020 may additionally or alternatively comprise an internal pouch 1065 containing manufactured checker pieces 1067. Such checker pieces 1067 may comprise circular wafers formed from a polymer or circular wafers formed from wood. As with punch outs 1061, such checker pieces 1067 may have different surface markings 32 or may have surfaces to which are applied visually distinct stickers from sticker sheet 34.

In some implementations, pouch 1065 may contain manufactured chess pieces for use on the checkerboard. In some implementations, perforations 1051 may be omitted. In other implementations, pouch 1065 checkers pieces 1067 may be omitted. In some implementations, punch outs 1061 may be provided, whereas pouch 1065 contains chess pieces, enabling system 1020 to convert the carton 1024 to a game component for two different games: chess and checkers.

FIG. 32 illustrates portions of carton 1024 severed or separated along divider perforations 748 and punch outs 1061 removed and placed upon the checkerboard fried by surface markings 32.

FIG. 33 is an end view illustrating portions of an example convertible carton game system 1120. System 1120 is similar to system 1020 described above except that system 1120 comprises carton 1124 in place of carton 1024. Carton 1124 is similar to carton 924 described above. Carton 1124 comprises an open top lower box 1126 and a lid 1128 which are similar to box 926 and lid 928, respectively, as described above. In the example illustrated, the checkerboard provided by surface markings 32 is formed on the top surface of lid 1128. In some implementations, the checkerboard formed by surface markings 32 may be formed on an inner surface of lid 1128. As noted above, in some implementations, rather than the checkerboard being formed by surface markings 32, the checkerboard may be provided by one or more stickers provided by a sticker sheet 34 or contained within carton 1124.

In the example illustrated, lid 1128 forms a checkerboard platform while lower box 1126 may include checker piece perforations 1051 on its bottom most panel 1170 which may have the same game piece perforations 1051 as shown on panel 740-2 in FIG. 31. The lower box 1126 may contain non-game articles 26 and protective filling 28. As described above with respect to system 1020, in some implementations, the lower box 1126 may further contain pouch 1065 including manufactured checkerboard pieces 1067 or manufactured chess pieces.

FIGS. 28-29 and 33 illustrate example cartons employing a lower box having a top opening which is covered by a lid. Each of the game systems 220, 320 and 420 described above may likewise alternatively comprise a carton having the configuration of a “banker's box”. In systems 220, 320 and 420, the top surface of the lid may provide the playing surfaces for such games. The sides, ends or bottom surfaces of the lower box of the “banker's box” may include the above-described perforations for forming the net punch out 254, the paddle punch out 257, or the goalpost punch out 465. The perforations for forming the slits or partial punch out for mounting the net punch out 254 or the goalpost punch out 465 may be provided in the lid.

Although the claims of the present disclosure are generally directed to a carton (also referred to as a boxer container) that is convertible to a game or one or more game components, the present disclosure is additionally directed to the features set forth in the following definitions.

Definition 1. A convertible carton game system comprising:

• • a carton comprising a plurality of panels comprising a top panel and a bottom panel,
  • wherein at least one of the plurality of panels comprises perforations for at least one punch out, and wherein the at least one punch out is configured such that removal of the at least one punch out converts the carton into a game component.

Definition 2. The convertible carton game system of Definition 1 further comprising second perforations configured to diagonally bifurcate the carton for forming a pair of equally sized rectangular ramps, wherein the perforations are configured to form a first punch out in the top panel and a second punch out in the bottom panel, and wherein the first punch out is configured such that removal of the first punch out forms a first opening proximate a first upper end of a first one of the rectangular ramps, and wherein the second punch out is configured such that removal of the second punch out forms a second opening proximate a second upper end of a second one of the rectangular ramps.

Definition 3. The convertible carton game system of Definition 2 further comprising at least four particle filled bags contained within the carton, wherein each of the four particle filled bags are dimensioned and are sufficiently deformable for passage through the first opening and the second opening.

Definition 4. The convertible carton game system of Definition 2 further comprising a first set of two particle filled bags and a second set of two particle filled bags, the particle filled bags of the first set being visually distinguishable from the particle filled bags of the second set.

Definition 5. The convertible carton game system of Definition 4, wherein the carton is formed from cardboard or paperboard, and wherein the game component is for use as part of a game, the system further comprising: an article within the carton and not for use as part of the game;

• • a protective filling within the carton at least partially about the article; and
  • a shipping label on an exterior of the carton.

Definition 6. The convertible carton game system of Definition 2 further comprising a first set of four empty bags and a second set of four empty bags, the bags of the first set being visually distinguishable from the empty bags of the second set, wherein each of the empty bags of the first set and of the have selectively openable and closable closing mechanisms.

Definition 7. The convertible carton game system of Definition 2, wherein the plurality of panels comprises a pair of opposite side panels, wherein the second perforations comprise:

• • a first perforation line diagonally extending from a first corner to a second corner of one of the pair of opposite side panels; and
  • a second perforation line diagonally extending from a first corner to a second corner of a second one of the pair of opposite side panels.

Definition 8. The convertible carton game system of Definition 2, wherein the first punch out is proximate a first end of the carton and wherein the second punch out is proximate the second end of the carton opposite the first end.

Definition 9. The convertible carton game system of Definition 8, wherein the first punch out and the second punch out are configured such that the first opening and the second opening, respectively, are centered between sides of the first ramp and the second ramp, are circular and have identical diameters of at least 2 inches.

Definition 10. The convertible carton game system of Definition 9, wherein the first punch out is the only punch out in the top panel and wherein the second punch out is the only punch out in the bottom panel.

Definition 11. The convertible carton game system of Definition 2 further comprising:

• • a third punch out in the top panel, the third punch out being configured such that removal of the third punch out forms a third opening in the top panel, the third punch out being different in at least one of size and shape than the first punch out;
    • a fourth punch out in the top panel, the fourth punch out being configured such that removal of the fourth punch out forms a fourth opening in the top panel, the fourth punch out been different in at least one of size and shape than the first punch out and the third punch out;
  • a fifth punch out in the bottom panel, the fifth punch out being configured such that removal of the fifth punch out forms a fifth opening in the bottom panel, the fifth punch out being different in at least one of size and shape than the second punch out and being identical in size and shape as the third punch out; and
    • a sixth punch out in the bottom panel, the sixth punch out being configured such that removal of the sixth punch out forms a sixth opening in the bottom panel, the sixth punch out being different in at least one of size and shape than the second punch out in the fifth punch out and being identical in size and shape as the fourth punch out.

Definition 12. The convertible carton game system of Definition 1, wherein the carton is formed from a cellulose-based material.

Definition 13. The convertible carton game system of Definition 1, wherein the carton is formed from cardboard or paperboard.

Definition 14. The convertible carton game system of Definition 1, wherein the game component is for use as part of a game, the system further comprising an article within the carton and not for use as part of the game.

Definition 15. The convertible carton game system of Definition 14 further comprising a protective filling within the carton at least partially about the article.

Definition 16. The convertible carton game system of Definition 14 further comprising a shipping label on an exterior of the carton.

Definition 17. The convertible carton game system of Definition 14 further comprising a three-dimensional game component releasably adhered to an interior surface of one of the plurality of panels.

Definition 18. The convertible carton game system of Definition 17, wherein the three-dimensional game component comprises a bag.

Definition 19. The convertible carton game system of Definition 1, wherein the game component is for use as part of a game, wherein the top panel is configured to serve as a playing surface for the game, the top panel comprising printed surface markings configured to facilitate use of the top panel as the playing surface for the game.

Definition 20. The convertible carton game system of Definition 1, wherein the game component is for use as part of a game, wherein the top panel is configured to serve as a playing surface for the game and wherein the system further comprises stickers configured for placement on the top surface to facilitate use of the top panel as a playing surface for the game.

Definition 21. The convertible carton game system of Definition 1, wherein the at least one punch out is configured to be mounted to and project from the top panel when removed to form the game component.

Definition 22. The convertible carton game system of Definition 1, wherein the top panel formed a playing surface as a first game component for use as part of a game, wherein the at least one punch out has a shape and size configured to form a handheld paddle serving as a second game component for use as part of the game.

Definition 23. The convertible carton game system of Definition 1, wherein the at least one punch out comprises a first punch out in the shape of a goal post, a second punch out to facilitate mounting of first punch out to a remainder of the carton in an upright orientation upon removal of the second punch out, and a third punch out having a shape of a triangle or having a square or rectangular shape into a triangle.

Definition 24. The convertible carton game system of Definition 1, wherein the plurality of panels comprising a series of perforations along a first end portion of the top panel and a fold line between the first end portion and a second end portion, wherein the first end portion is pivotable along the fold line to an upright orientation with respect to the second end portion which is configured to serve as a playing surface, and wherein the at least one punch out comprise a punch out having a shape and size configured to form a handheld paddle upon removal from the carton.

Definition 25. The convertible carton game system of Definition 24, wherein the at least one punch out further comprises a second punch out configured to be mounted in an upright orientation to the second top panel proximate the fold-line.

Definition 26. The convertible carton game system of Definition 24 further comprising a ball within the carton.

Definition 27. The convertible carton game system of Definition 1, wherein the carton comprises a banker's box having a lid, wherein the lid provides a playing surface for the game.

Definition 28. The convertible carton game system of Definition 1, wherein the at least one punch out is configured to form a gate having at least one puck passage and wherein the system further comprises a plurality of pucks.

Definition 29. The convertible carton game system of Definition 28, wherein the at least one punch out comprises puck punch outs formed in at least one of the plurality of panels.

Definition 30. The convertible carton game system of Definition 28 further comprising a plurality of elastic bands.

Definition 31. The convertible carton game system of Definition 1 further comprising a checkerboard pattern on one of the plurality of panels, the system further comprising checkers playing pieces.

Definition 32. The convertible carton game system of Definition 31, wherein the at least one punch out comprises checker piece punch outs formed in at least one of the plurality of panels.

Although the present disclosure has been described with reference to example implementations, workers skilled in the art will recognize that changes may be made in form and detail without departing from the scope of the claimed subject matter. For example, although different example implementations may have been described as including features providing benefits, it is contemplated that the described features may be interchanged with one another or alternatively be combined with one another in the described example implementations or in other alternative implementations. Because the technology of the present disclosure is relatively complex, not all changes in the technology are foreseeable. The present disclosure described with reference to the example implementations and set forth in the following claims is manifestly intended to be as broad as possible. For example, unless specifically otherwise noted, the claims reciting a single particular element also encompass a plurality of such particular elements. The terms “first”, “second”, “third” and so on in the claims merely distinguish different elements and, unless otherwise stated, are not to be specifically associated with a particular order or particular numbering of elements in the disclosure.

Claims

1. A convertible carton game system comprising: a carton comprising a plurality of panels comprising a top panel and a bottom panel,wherein at least one of the plurality of panels comprises perforations for at least one punch out, and wherein the at least one punch out is configured such that removal of the at least one punch out converts the carton into a game component.

2. The convertible carton game system of claim 1 further comprising second perforations configured to diagonally bifurcate the carton for forming a pair of equally sized rectangular ramps, wherein the perforations are configured to form a first punch out in the top panel and a second punch out in the bottom panel, and wherein the first punch out is configured such that removal of the first punch out forms a first opening proximate a first upper end of a first one of the rectangular ramps, and wherein the second punch out is configured such that removal of the second punch out forms a second opening proximate a second upper end of a second one of the rectangular ramps.

3. The convertible carton game system of claim 2 further comprising at least four particle filled bags contained within the carton, wherein each of the four particle filled bags are dimensioned and are sufficiently deformable for passage through the first opening and the second opening.

4. The convertible carton game system of claim 2 further comprising a first set of four particle filled bags and a second set of four particle filled bags, the particle filled bags of the first set being visually distinguishable from the particle filled bags of the second set.

5. The convertible carton game system of claim 4, wherein the carton is formed from cardboard or paperboard, and wherein the game component is for use as part of a game, the system further comprising: an article within the carton and not for use as part of the game;a protective filling within the carton at least partially about the article; anda shipping label on an exterior of the carton.

6. The convertible carton game system of claim 2 further comprising a first set of four empty bags and a second set of four empty bags, the bags of the first set being visually distinguishable from the empty bags of the second set, wherein each of the empty bags of the first set and of the second set have selectively openable and closable closing mechanisms.

7. The convertible carton game system of claim 2, wherein the plurality of panels comprises a pair of opposite side panels, wherein the second perforations comprise: a first perforation line diagonally extending from a first corner to a second corner of one of the pair of opposite side panels; anda second perforation line diagonally extending from a first corner to a second corner of a second one of the pair of opposite side panels.

8. The convertible carton game system of claim 2, wherein the first punch out is proximate a first end of the carton and wherein the second punch out is proximate the second end of the carton opposite the first end.

9. The convertible carton game system of claim 8, wherein the first punch out and the second punch out are configured such that the first opening and the second opening, respectively, are centered between sides of the first ramp and the second ramp, are circular and have identical diameters of at least 2 inches.

10. The convertible carton game system of claim 9, wherein the first punch out is the only punch out in the top panel and wherein the second punch out is the only punch out in the bottom panel.

11. The convertible carton game system of claim 2 further comprising: a third punch out in the top panel, the third punch out being configured such that removal of the third punch out forms a third opening in the top panel, the third punch out being different in at least one of size and shape than the first punch out;a fourth punch out in the top panel, the fourth punch out being configured such that removal of the fourth punch out forms a fourth opening in the top panel, the fourth punch out been different in at least one of size and shape than the first punch out and the third punch out;a fifth punch out in the bottom panel, the fifth punch out being configured such that removal of the fifth punch out forms a fifth opening in the bottom panel, the fifth punch out being different in at least one of size and shape than the second punch out and being identical in size and shape as the third punch out; and a sixth punch out in the bottom panel, the sixth punch out being configured such that removal of the sixth punch out forms a sixth opening in the bottom panel, the sixth punch out being different in at least one of size and shape than the second punch out in the fifth punch out and being identical in size and shape as the fourth punch out.

12. The convertible carton game system of claim 1, wherein the carton is formed from a cellulose-based material.

13. The convertible carton game system of claim 1, wherein the carton is formed from cardboard or paperboard.

14. The convertible carton game system of claim 1, wherein the game component is for use as part of a game, the system further comprising an article within the carton and not for use as part of the game.

15. The convertible carton game system of claim 14 further comprising a protective filling within the carton at least partially about the article.

16. The convertible carton game system of claim 14 further comprising a shipping label on an exterior of the carton.

17. The convertible carton game system of claim 14 further comprising a three-dimensional game component releasably adhered to an interior surface of one of the plurality of panels.

18. The convertible carton game system of claim 17, wherein the three-dimensional game component comprises a bag.

19. The convertible carton game system of claim 1, wherein the game component is for use as part of a game, wherein the top panel is configured to serve as a playing surface for the game, the top panel comprising printed surface markings configured to facilitate use of the top panel as the playing surface for the game.

20. The convertible carton game system of claim 1, wherein the game component is for use as part of a game, wherein the top panel is configured to serve as a playing surface for the game and wherein the system further comprises stickers configured for placement on the top surface to facilitate use of the top panel.