CARRIER FOR ARTICLES AND RAW PIECES FOR THE SAME

Abstract

Aspects of the disclosure relate to a handle structure, an article carrier for packaging a plurality of articles, and to a blank for forming the handle structure or article carrier. The article carrier comprising a primary panel including a handle structure. The primary panel comprises at least two article retention structures for engaging a respective article. Each of the at least two article retention structures comprises an aperture in the primary panel. The aperture has, or is defined by, a plurality of engaging teeth formed from the primary panel. A first article retention structures comprises a first engaging tooth extending from its proximal end in a first direction to its distal end. A second article retention structures is disposed adjacent to the first article retention structure and comprises a second engaging tooth extending from its proximal end away from the first engaging tooth in a second direction to its distal end.. The handle structure comprises a handle opening which is disposed between the respective proximal ends of the first and second engaging teeth.

Description

1 / 21 “CARRIER FOR ITEMS AND RAW PARTS FOR THIS” TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to handle structures, carriers and the blank for their formation. More specifically, but not exclusively, the invention relates to a carrier of the type with a top handle and which provides a carrying handle for transporting one, two or more articles. TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

[0002] In the field of boxes, the supply of article carriers or boxes for transporting multiple articles is well known. Boxes are well known in the state of the art and are useful for enabling consumers to transport, store, and access a group of consumer goods. For cost and environmental reasons, such boxes or carriers need to be made with the minimum amount of material possible and cause the least possible waste of the materials from which they are made. Other considerations are the strength of the box and its suitability for holding and transporting heavy articles. It is desirable that the contents of the box be secure inside it.

[0003] It is an object of the present invention to provide a carrier with a carrying handle to allow two or more articles to be transported.

[0004] The present invention aims to provide an improvement in the field of boxes, typically made of cardboard or similar material. SUMMARY

[0005] One aspect of the invention provides an item carrier for packing a plurality of items. The item carrier comprises a primary panel including a handle structure. The primary panel comprises at least two item retention structures for engaging a respective item in order to provide an item carrier with a top handle. Each of the at least two item retention structures comprises an item receiving opening and a plurality of engagement tabs detached from the primary panel and articulatedly connected to it. A first of the at least two item retention structures comprises a first engagement tooth defined in part Petition 870250076449, dated 08 / 28 / 2025, p. 9 / 43 2 / 21 by a first pair of cutting lines. A first articulated connection between the first engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between the router ends of the first pair of cutting lines. A second of the at least two article retention structures comprises a second engagement tooth defined in part by a second pair of cutting lines. A second articulated connection between the second engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between the outer ends of the second pair of cutting lines.

[0006] The second engagement tooth is articulated in opposition to the first engagement tooth, and the first engagement tooth and the second engagement tooth are arranged transversely to a longitudinal axis of the primary panel. The handle structure comprises an opening for the handle disposed, at least in part, between the first and second articulated connections.

[0007] Optionally, a handle opening center is arranged between the first and second hinged connections.

[0008] Optionally, an outer end of a first of the first pair of cutting lines and an outer end of a first of the second pair of cutting lines define a first boundary line and an outer end of a second of the first pair of cutting lines and an outer end of a second of the second pair of cutting lines define a second boundary line, the first and second boundary lines defining a region of the primary panel between them, and where a center of the handle opening is disposed with said region of the primary panel defined by the first and second boundary lines.

[0009] Optionally, the first boundary line is parallel to the second boundary line.

[0010] Optionally, notional lines collinear with each of the first and second pairs of cutting lines define an area of ​​the primary panel between the first and second hinged connections, and where the handle opening is disposed within said area of ​​the primary panel.

[0011] Optionally, the notional lines define a parallelogram.

[0012] Optionally, the centers of each of the pairs of at least two Petition 870250076449, dated 08 / 28 / 2025, p. 10 / 43 3 / 21 Item retention structures define a notional line, and the center of the handle opening lies on the notional line.

[0013] Optionally, the notional line extends perpendicularly to a side edge of the primary panel.

[0014] Optionally, the side edge of the primary panel is defined by a hinged connection between the primary panel and a side panel.

[0015] Optionally, the notional line is equidistant between the first and second cutting line lines and parallel to them.

[0016] Optionally, the article carrier comprises a pair of opposing side panels articulated to the primary panel.

[0017] Another aspect of the invention provides an item carrier for packing a plurality of items. The item carrier comprises a primary panel including a handle structure. The primary panel comprises at least one pair of item retention structures for engaging a respective item in order to provide a top handle item carrier. Each of the at least one pair of item retention structures comprises an opening for receiving items and a plurality of engagement tabs detached from the primary panel and connected to it in a hinged manner. A first of at least one of the pairs of item retention structures comprises a first engagement tooth defined in part by a first pair of cutting lines. A first hinged connection between the first engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between the outer ends of the first pair of cutting lines.A second article retention structure, among at least one pair, comprises a second engagement tooth defined in part by a second pair of cutting lines. A second articulated connection between the second engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between the outer ends of the second pair of cutting lines. The second engagement tooth is articulated opposite the first engagement tooth on opposite sides of a longitudinal axis of the primary panel. The handle structure comprises a handle opening whose center is disposed between the first and second articulated connections. Petition 870250076449, dated 08 / 28 / 2025, page 11 / 43 4 / 21

[0018] Another aspect of the invention provides an item carrier for packing a plurality of items. The item carrier comprises a primary panel including a handle structure. The primary panel comprises a first pair of item retaining structures and a second pair of item retaining structures for engaging the respective items in order to provide an item carrier with a top handle. Each of the item retaining structures comprises an opening for receiving items and a plurality of engagement tabs detached from the primary panel and connected to it in an articulated manner. A first of the item retaining structures of the first pair comprises a first engagement tooth defined in part by a first pair of cutting lines. A first articulated connection between the first engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between the outer ends of the first pair of cutting lines.A second retaining structure for the first pair of articles comprises a second engagement tooth defined in part by a second pair of cutting lines. A second articulated connection between the second engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between the outer ends of the second pair of cutting lines. The second engagement tooth is articulated opposite the first engagement tooth on opposite sides of a longitudinal axis of the primary panel. The handle structure comprises a first handle opening, the center of which is disposed between the first and second articulated connections. A first of the second pair of article retaining structures comprises a third engagement tooth defined in part by a third pair of cutting lines. A third articulated connection between the third engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between the outer ends of the third pair of cutting lines.A second structure of the second pair of article retention structures comprises a fourth engagement tooth defined in part by a fourth pair of cutting lines. A fourth articulated connection between the fourth engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between the outer ends of the fourth pair of cutting lines. The fourth engagement tooth is articulated opposite the third engagement tooth on opposite sides of a longitudinal axis of the primary panel. The handle structure comprises a second... Petition 870250076449, dated 08 / 28 / 2025, page 12 / 43 5 / 21 opening for handle, the center of which is located between the third and fourth articulated connections.

[0019] Yet another aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a primary panel including a handle structure. The primary panel comprises at least two item retention structures for engaging a respective item to form an upper handle item carrier. Each of the at least two article retention structures comprises an opening for receiving articles and a plurality of engagement tabs detached from the primary panel and connected to it in an articulated manner. A first of the at least two item retention structures comprises a first engagement tooth defined in part by a first pair of cutting lines. A first articulated connection between the first engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between the outer ends of the first pair of cutting lines.A second of the at least two article retention structures comprises a second engagement tooth defined in part by a second pair of cutting lines. A second articulated connection between the second engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between the outer ends of the second pair of cutting lines. The second engagement tooth is articulated opposite the first engagement tooth, and the first engagement tooth and the second engagement tooth are arranged transversely to a longitudinal axis of the primary panel. The handle structure comprises an opening for the handle disposed, at least in part, between the first and second articulated connections.

[0020] A further aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a primary panel including a handle structure. The primary panel comprises at least one pair of item retention structures for engaging a respective item to form a top handle item carrier. Each of the at least one pair of article retention structures comprises an article receiving opening and a plurality of engagement tabs detached from the primary panel and connected to it in a hinged manner. A first pair of at least one of the pairs of structures of Petition 870250076449, dated 08 / 28 / 2025, p. 13 / 43 6 / 21 Article retention comprises a first engagement tooth defined in part by a first pair of cutting lines. A first articulated connection between the first engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between the outer ends of the first pair of cutting lines. A second article retention structure, of at least one pair, comprises a second engagement tooth defined in part by a second pair of cutting lines. A second articulated connection between the second engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between the outer ends of the second pair of cutting lines. The second engagement tooth is articulated opposite the first engagement tooth on opposite sides of a longitudinal axis of the primary panel. The handle structure comprises a handle opening whose center is disposed between the first and second articulated connections.

[0021] Another aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a primary panel including a handle structure. The primary panel comprises a first pair of item retention structures and a second pair of item retention structures for engaging the respective items to form an upper handle item carrier. Each of the article retention structures comprises an opening for receiving articles and a plurality of engagement tabs detached from the primary panel and connected to it in an articulated manner. A first of the item retention structures of the first pair comprises a first engagement tooth defined in part by a first pair of cutting lines. A first articulated connection between the first engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between the outer ends of the first pair of cutting lines.A second retaining structure for the first pair of articles comprises a second engagement tooth defined in part by a second pair of cutting lines. A second articulated connection between the second engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between the outer ends of the second pair of cutting lines. The second engagement tooth is articulated opposite the first engagement tooth on opposite sides of a longitudinal axis of the primary panel. The handle structure comprises a first handle opening whose center is disposed between the first and second. Petition 870250076449, dated 08 / 28 / 2025, page 14 / 43 7 / 21 articulated connections. A first structure of the second pair of article retention structures comprises a third engagement tooth defined in part by a third pair of cutting lines. A third articulated connection between the third engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between the outer ends of the third pair of cutting lines. A second structure of the second pair of article retention structures comprises a fourth engagement tooth defined in part by a fourth pair of cutting lines. A fourth articulated connection between the fourth engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between the outer ends of the fourth pair of cutting lines. The fourth engagement tooth is articulated opposite the third engagement tooth on opposite sides of a longitudinal axis of the primary panel. The handle structure comprises a second handle opening, the center of which is disposed between the third and fourth articulated connections.

[0022] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the specific embodiments illustrated in the drawings and discussed below.

[0023] Within the scope of this application, it is foreseen or intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternatives set forth in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and / or in the following description and drawings may be considered or considered independently or in any combination thereof.

[0024] The features or elements described in connection with, or relating to, one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments, unless there is incompatibility of features. One or more features or elements of an embodiment may be incorporated or combined with any of the other embodiments disclosed herein, and such features or elements derived from such embodiment may be included in addition to, or in substitution for, one or more features or elements of the other embodiment.

[0025] A feature, or combination of features, of a modality disclosed here may be extracted in isolation from other features of that modality. Alternatively, a feature, or combination of features, of a modality may be omitted from that modality. Petition 870250076449, dated 08 / 28 / 2025, p. 15 / 43 8 / 21 BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0026] The embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0027] Figures 1 to 3 are a top plan view of a raw piece to form a carrier according to one embodiment of the disclosure; and

[0028] Figure 4 is a perspective view of a box formed from the raw piece of Figure 1. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE MODALITIES

[0029] Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of the handle structure, packaging, blank parts, and boxes are disclosed herein. It should be understood that the embodiments disclosed are merely examples of how certain aspects of the invention may be implemented and do not represent an exhaustive list of all ways in which the invention may be embodied. As used herein, the term “exemplary” is used expansively to refer to embodiments that serve as illustrations, specimens, models, or patterns. Indeed, it should be understood that the handle structures, packaging, blank parts, and boxes described herein may be embodied in varied and alternative forms. The Figures are not necessarily to scale, and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of specific components. Well-known components, materials, or methods are not necessarily described in detail in order to avoid obscuring the present disclosure.Any specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art how to employ the invention in various ways.

[0030] Referring to Figure 1, a plan view of a blank piece 10 capable of forming a box or carrier 90, as shown in Figure 4, for transporting a group of primary products, such as, but not limited to, bottles, hereinafter referred to as articles, is shown. The blank piece 10 forms a secondary packaging or handle structure for packaging at least one container or Petition 870250076449, dated 08 / 28 / 2025, page 16 / 43 9 / 21 primary product packaging.

[0031] In the embodiments detailed herein, the terms “box” and “carrier” refer, for the non-limiting purpose of illustrating the various features of the invention, to a container 90 for attaching and transporting articles, such as primary product containers. It is considered that the teachings of the invention can be applied to various product containers, which may or may not be conical and / or cylindrical. Other exemplary containers include bottles (e.g., metal, glass or plastic bottles), cans (e.g., aluminum cans), molds, bags, packages and the like.

[0032] The blank piece 10 is formed from a sheet of suitable substrate. It should be understood that, as used herein, the term “suitable substrate” includes all types of foldable sheet material, such as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof and the like. It should be recognized that one or more blank pieces may be employed, where appropriate, for example, to provide the carrier structure described in more detail below.

[0033] The packaging or box structure described herein may be formed from a sheet material, such as cardboard, which may be made or coated with materials to increase its strength. An example of such a sheet material is NATRALOCK® tear-resistant cardboard, manufactured by WestRock Company. It should be noted that tear-resistant materials may be provided in more than one layer to help improve the tear resistance of the packaging. Typically, one surface of the sheet material may have different characteristics from the other surface. For example, the surface of the sheet material facing outwards in a finished package may be particularly smooth and may have a coating, such as a clay coating or other surface treatment, to provide good printability.The inward-facing surface of the sheet material may, on the other hand, be coated, layered, treated, or otherwise prepared to provide properties such as tear resistance, good bonding ability, heat sealing, or other desired functional properties. Petition 870250076449, dated 08 / 28 / 2025, page 17 / 43 10 / 21

[0034] In the illustrated embodiment, the blank part 10 is configured to form a box or carrier 90 for packing an exemplary arrangement of exemplary items. In the illustrated embodiment, the arrangement is an mxn matrix or array, with two rows (m = 2) and two columns (n ​​= 2). Two rows of two items are provided, and the items may be 0.5 L bottles. Alternatively, the blank part 10 may be configured to form a carrier for packing other types, numbers and sizes of items and / or for packing items in a different arrangement or configuration, for example, but not limited to, fully enclosed boxes or enclosing carriers, the items may be cups, bags, jars or cans.

[0035] With reference to Figure 1, a blank piece 10 is illustrated to form a box 90 (see Figure 4) according to a first embodiment. The blank piece 10 comprises a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16 arranged in a linear series articulated to each other by a respective fold line 13, 15.

[0036] The plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16 forms a top coupling carrier 90. The plurality of panels 12, 14, 16 comprises a first panel 12, a second panel 14 and a third panel 16. The second panel 14 is articulated to the first panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a bend line 13. The third panel 16 is articulated to the first panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a bend line 15. The bend lines 13, 15 are arranged along the opposite side edges of the first panel 12.

[0037] The first panel 12 forms an upper or primary engagement panel 12 from which items B are suspended. The second and third panels 14, 16 form opposite side or shoulder panels.

[0038] Primary panel 12 comprises a plurality of RT article retention structures, optionally four RT article retention structures arranged in a 2 x 2 matrix or arrangement. Each of the RT article retention structures comprises an A1 opening. The A1 opening may optionally be octagonal in shape. Petition 870250076449, dated 08 / 28 / 2025, p. 18 / 43 11 / 21

[0039] The retention structures of the RT article comprise a toothed region, defined by a plurality of teeth or tongues 40, 42, 50, surrounding the opening A1.

[0040] Each of the RT article retention structures is substantially the same in construction and will be described in more detail with reference to one of the RT article retention structures shown in Figure 1.

[0041] The RT article retention structure comprises a plurality of engagement teeth or tongues 40, 42, 50, detached from or set within the primary panel 12. The plurality of engagement teeth or tongues 40, 42, 50 are arranged around and encircle opening A1. The plurality of engagement teeth or tongues 40, 42, 50, together with opening A1, form an article receiving opening for receiving a portion of an article B to be packaged.

[0042] The plurality of engagement teeth or tongues 40, 42, 50 comprises a main tooth or tongue 50. The main tooth 50 extends from one of the second or third panels 14, 16 and is an integral part thereof. The main tooth 50 interrupts the bend line 13, 15 between the primary panel 12 and the respective side panel 14, 16.

[0043] The secondary teeth 40 are arranged on opposite sides of the main tooth 50, respectively. Each of the secondary teeth 40 is detached from or set within the primary panel 12 and is connected to it in an articulated manner by a hinged connection. The hinged connection may be defined, at least in part, by a linear cutting line 41. Each secondary tooth 40 is separated from the main tooth 50 by a cutting line 47. Each cutting line 47 extends radially outward from the opening A1, optionally from a corner or vertex of the opening A1. The cutting lines 47 terminate at one of the bend lines 13, 15 between the primary panel 12 and the respective side panel 14, 16.

[0044] The plurality of engagement teeth or tongues 40, 42, 50 comprises five tertiary teeth or tongues 42 arranged around the remainder of the opening A1. One of the tertiary teeth or tongues 42 is arranged substantially opposite the main tooth 50. Each of the tertiary teeth 42 is set off from, or defined Petition 870250076449, dated 08 / 28 / 2025, page 19 / 43 12 / 21 within the primary panel 12 and is connected to it in an articulated manner by a hinged connection. The hinged connection may be defined, at least in part, by a non-linear or arched cutting line 43. Each tertiary tooth 42 is separated from an adjacent neighboring tooth 40, 42 by a cutting line 45. Each cutting line 45 extends radially outward from the opening A1, optionally from a corner or vertex of the opening A1.

[0045] Opening A1 defines the engagement edges E of the engagement teeth or tongues 40, 42, 50. These engagement edges E are arranged opposite the respective articulated edges or proximal ends of the engagement teeth or tongues 40, 42, 50.

[0046] The blank part 10 comprises a handle structure H. The handle structure H takes the form of a finger opening in the primary panel 12. The primary panel 12 may comprise a pair of finger openings.

[0047] Each finger opening is defined, at least in part, by one or more handle tabs 70, 72. The illustrated embodiment comprises a pair of handle tabs 70, 72 separated from each other by a cutting line 75. The cutting line 75 may divide the finger opening. Each of the pairs of handle tabs 70, 72 is articulated to the primary panel 12 by a folding line 71, 73, respectively. A first handle tab 70 is articulated to the primary panel 12 by a first folding line 71 and a second handle tab 72 is articulated to the first panel 12 by a second folding line 73. The second folding line 73 is arranged divergently from the first line 71. The first and second folding lines 71, 73 may define a “V” shape that is bisected by the cutting line 75.

[0048] Each of the pairs of handle tabs 70, 72 may comprise a predefined fold spaced and generally parallel to its respective hinged connection to the primary panel 12. The predefined fold may be provided by a suitable feature, such as, but not limited to, a fold line, crease line or cut line.

[0049] With respect to Figure 2, the opening of the loop comprises a center Ce. The Petition 870250076449, dated 08 / 28 / 2025, page 20 / 43 13 / 21 center Ce is at the midpoint of a notional line that bisects the opening of the handle longitudinally.

[0050] Each loop opening is arranged between a pair of adjacent RT item retention structures. Optionally, the loop opening is arranged between one of the tertiary teeth 42 (i.e., the “first neighboring tooth”) of one of the adjacent RT item retention structures and one of the tertiary teeth 42 (i.e., the “second neighboring tooth”) of the other adjacent RT item retention structure. The first and second neighboring teeth 42, arranged on opposite sides of the loop opening, are arranged diagonally opposite the main tooth 50 of the respective adjacent RT item retention structure. Optionally, the center Ce of the loop opening is arranged between the proximal ends of the first and second neighboring teeth 42 of the pair of adjacent RT item retention structures.

[0051] The first and second adjacent teeth 42 define an area or region “A” that extends across the primary panel 12. More specifically, area “A” is defined by a pair of notional boundary lines BL1, BL2. A first notional boundary line BL1 passes through an outer end of a first cutting line 45 that extends radially, defining one of the opposite lateral edges of the first adjacent tooth 42 and through an outer end of a first cutting line 45 that extends radially, defining one of the opposite lateral edges of the second adjacent tooth 42. A second notional boundary line BL2 passes through an outer end of a second cutting line 45 that extends radially, defining the other of the opposite lateral edges of the first adjacent tooth 42 and through an outer end of a second cutting line 45 that extends radially, defining the other of the opposite lateral edges of the second adjacent tooth 42.

[0052] Cutting lines 45, 47 of each RT article retention structure extend radially outward from the respective opening A1 to the primary panel 12 and terminate at the respective outer end.

[0053] Each of the notional boundary line pairs BL1, BL2 is perpendicular to the side edges of the primary panel 12 defined by the fold lines. Petition 870250076449, dated 08 / 28 / 2025, p. 21 / 43 14 / 21 13, 15.

[0054] A notional transverse line NL1 passing through the center CA of each of the pairs of adjacent item retention structures RT is perpendicular to the lateral edges of the primary panel 12. The notional transverse line NL1 is in the area or region “A” defined between the pair of notional boundary lines BL1, BL2.

[0055] The center Ce of the loop opening is in area or region “A”.

[0056] The center Ce of the loop opening may be on the theoretical transverse line NL1 that passes through the center CA of each of the pairs of adjacent item retention structures RT.

[0057] The theoretical transversal line NL1 bisects area “A”. In other words, the theoretical transversal line NL1 is equidistant from each of the pairs of contour lines BL1 and BL2.

[0058] With respect to Figure 3, each opening of the loop is disposed in a respective portion P of the primary panel 12, defined between the respective pair of adjacent article retention structures RT. Each portion P of the primary panel 12 is defined by notional extensions of the cutting lines 45 of the first and second adjacent teeth 42, disposed on opposite sides of that loop opening. The portions P of the primary panel 12 have a hexagonal shape. Each loop opening is disposed within the respective hexagonal region P of the primary panel 12; the notional extensions of the cutting lines 45 of the first and second adjacent teeth do not pass through the respective loop opening.

[0059] The raw piece 10 is folded to form a package 90 as illustrated in Figure 4.

[0060] With regard to the construction of the article carrier 90, as illustrated in Figures 2, the article carrier 90 can be formed by a series of sequential bending operations. The bending process is not limited to that described below and can be altered according to specific manufacturing requirements.

[0061] Raw part 10 is lowered relative to a group of items B, each item B being arranged in vertical alignment with one of the respective item retention structures RT. One item B is received in each of the structures of Petition 870250076449, dated 08 / 28 / 2025, p. 22 / 43 15 / 21 Retention of RT items. When B items are received, the engagement tabs 40, 42, 50 fold out of the plane of the primary panel 12, the engagement tabs 40, 42, 50 fold upwards. As a consequence of the first tabs 50 folding upwards, the side panels 14, 16 fold downwards around the sides or shoulders of the B items.

[0062] The engagement tabs 40, 42, 50 of each article retention structure engage the respective article B below a flange or other suitable projection on the upper portion (e.g., the neck) of article B. The projection may be provided by a cap or end closure C of article B or may be provided separately below end closure C (see Figure 4), so as to allow the primary panel 12 to support and suspend article B from it.

[0063] When the carrier 90 is lifted by the handle structure H, as illustrated in Figure 4, where the carrier 90 is shown suspended in a U-shaped test jig for illustrative purposes, the primary panel 12 may bend, deform or fold inward in the regions between each handle opening and the adjacent end edge EE1, EE2, as indicated by the ghost lines (dashed lines) FL in Figure 2.

[0064] It has been observed that when the ghost lines FL increase sufficiently in length, i.e., the distance between the handle opening and the adjacent end edge EE1, EE2 increases, the articles B will have a greater tendency to spread out or move away from each other at their bases.

[0065] It was also found that when the FL ghost lines decrease sufficiently in length, i.e., the distance between the opening of the handle and the adjacent end edge EE1, EE2 decreases, the safety of the B articles in the carrier 90 also decreases and can be reduced to such an extent that they separate or are unintentionally disengaged from the carrier 90.

[0066] It was found that the ideal location for the handle opening is within region A illustrated in Figure 2 and / or within region P illustrated in Figure 3, that is, the handle openings are arranged in a region of the primary panel 12 so as to be closer to each of the respective pairs of structures of Petition 870250076449, dated 08 / 28 / 2025, p. 23 / 43 16 / 21 RT adjacent item retention. The distance between the center Ce of the handle opening and the centers CA of each of the pairs of RT adjacent item retention structures is reduced or minimized.

[0067] The present disclosure provides an article carrier 90 comprising a primary panel 12 including a handle structure H. The primary panel 12 comprises at least two article retention structures RT for engaging a respective article so as to provide a top-grip article carrier 90. Each of the at least two article retention structures RT comprises an article receiving opening having, or defined by, a plurality of engagement tabs 40, 42, 50 set apart from the primary panel 12 and articulatedly connected to it. A first of the at least two article retention structures RT comprises a first engagement tooth 42 defined in part by a first pair of cutting lines 45. The proximal end of the first engagement tooth 42 may be defined by a first articulated connection between the first engagement tooth 42 and the primary panel 12.Such an articulated connection may extend at least partially between the outer ends of the first pair of cutting lines 45. A second of the at least two RT article retention structures comprises a second engagement tooth 42 defined in part by a second pair of cutting lines 45. The proximal end of the second engagement tooth 42 may be defined by a second articulated connection between the second engagement tooth 42 and the primary panel 12. Such an articulated connection of the second engagement tooth 42 may extend at least partially between the outer ends of the second pair of cutting lines 45. The second engagement tooth 42 is articulated opposite the first engagement tooth 42, where the first engagement tooth 42 and the second engagement tooth 42 are arranged transversely to a longitudinal central axis La of the primary panel 12.The structure of the H loop comprises an opening of the loop having its center Ce positioned between the proximal ends of the first and second adjacent teeth 42, 42.

[0068] The outer end of a first of the first pair of 45° cutting lines and that of a first of the second pair of 45° cutting lines define a first Petition 870250076449, dated 08 / 28 / 2025, page 24 / 43 17 / 21 notional boundary line BL1. The outer end of a second line of the first pair of 45° cutting lines and that of a second line of the second pair of 45° cutting lines define a second notional boundary line BL2. The first and second notional boundary lines BL1, BL2 define a region of the primary panel 12 between them, where a center of the handle opening is located in said region of the primary panel 12 defined by the first and second notional boundary lines BL1, BL2. The first notional boundary line BL1 is parallel to the second notional boundary line BL2.

[0069] The notional lines FL1, FL2 collinear with each of the first and second pairs of cutting lines 45 define an area “G” of the primary panel 12 between the distal ends d1, d2 of the first and second adjacent teeth 42, where the loop opening is disposed within said area “G” of the primary panel 12. The notional lines FL1, FL2 define a parallelogram or at least part of a hexagon.

[0070] The CA centers of each of the two pairs of at least two RT article retention structures define a theoretical transverse line NL1. A handle opening center may lie on the theoretical transverse line NL1. The theoretical transverse line NL1 may extend perpendicularly to a side edge of the primary panel 12. The side edge of the primary panel 12 may be defined by a hinged connection between the primary panel 12 and a side panel 14, 16.

[0071] The notional transverse line NL1 may be equidistant from the first and second notional boundary lines BL1, BL2 and may be parallel to them.

[0072] The article carrier 90 may comprise a pair of opposing side panels 14, 16 articulatedly connected to the primary panel 12. Each side panel 14, 16 has a free edge that opposes its articulated edge defined by the articulated connection of that side panel to the primary panel 12.

[0073] The present disclosure provides an item carrier 90 comprising a primary panel 12 including a handle structure H. The primary panel 12 comprises at least one pair of item retaining structures RT for engaging the respective items, so as to provide an item carrier of Petition 870250076449, dated 08 / 28 / 2025, p. 25 / 43 18 / 21 upper grip 90. Each of the at least one pair of RT article retention structures comprises an article receiving opening having, or defined by, a plurality of engagement tabs 40, 42, 50, detached from the primary panel 12 and connected to it in an articulated manner. A first of the at least one pair of RT article retention structures comprises a first engagement tooth 42 which may be defined in part by a first pair of cutting lines 45, 45. The first engagement tooth 42 has a first proximal end. The first proximal end may be defined by a first articulated connection between the first engagement tooth 42 and the primary panel 12. The first articulated connection may extend between the outer ends of the first pair of cutting lines 45.A second RT article retention structure, of at least one pair, comprises a second engagement tooth 42 defined in part by a second pair of cutting lines 45. The second engagement tooth 42 has a second proximal end that may be defined by a second articulated connection between the second engagement tooth 42 and the primary panel 12. The second articulated connection may extend between the outer ends of the second pair of cutting lines 45. The second engagement tooth 42 is articulated opposite the first engagement tooth 42 on opposite sides of the longitudinal central axis La of the primary panel 12. The handle structure H comprises a handle opening disposed, at least in part, between the first and second proximal ends of the first and second adjacent teeth.

[0074] The present disclosure also provides an article carrier 90 comprising a primary panel 12 including a handle structure H. The primary panel 12 comprises a first pair of article retaining structures RT and a second pair of article retaining structures RT for engaging the respective articles B so as to provide a top handle article carrier 90. Each of the article retaining structures RT comprises an article receiving opening having, or defined by, a plurality of engagement tabs 40, 42, 50 detached from the primary panel 12 and articulatedly connected to it. A first structure of the first pair of item retaining structures RT Petition 870250076449, dated 08 / 28 / 2025, p. 26 / 43 19 / 21 comprises a first engagement tooth 42 defined in part by a first pair of cutting lines 45. The first engagement tooth 42 has a proximal end that can be defined by a first articulated connection between the first engagement tooth 42 and the primary panel 12. The first articulated connection can extend between the outer ends of the first pair of cutting lines 45. A second structure of the first pair of RT article retention structures comprises a second engagement tooth 42 defined in part by a second pair of cutting lines 45. The second engagement tooth has a second proximal end that can be defined by a second articulated connection between the second engagement tooth 42 and the primary panel 12. The second articulated connection can extend between the outer ends of the second pair of cutting lines 45.The second engagement tooth 42 is articulated in opposition to the first engagement tooth 42 on opposite sides of a longitudinal central axis La of the primary panel 12. The handle structure H comprises a first handle opening disposed, at least in part, between the first and second articulated connections. A first structure of the second pair of article retention structures RT comprises a third engagement tooth 42 defined in part by a third pair of cutting lines. The third engagement tooth 42 has a third proximal end that may be defined by a third articulated connection between the third engagement tooth 42 and the primary panel 12. The third articulated connection may extend between the outer ends of the third pair of cutting lines. A second article retention structure of the second pair RT comprises a fourth engagement tooth 42 defined in part by a fourth pair of cutting lines.The fourth engagement tooth 42 has a fourth proximal end that can be defined by a fourth articulated connection between the fourth engagement tooth 42 and the primary panel 12. The fourth articulated connection may extend between the outer ends of the fourth pair of cutting lines. The fourth engagement tooth 42 is articulated opposite the third engagement tooth 42 on opposite sides of the longitudinal central axis La of the primary panel 12. The handle structure H comprises a second handle opening disposed, at least in part, between the third and fourth articulated connections. Petition 870250076449, dated 08 / 28 / 2025, page 27 / 43 20 / 21

[0075] It can be understood that various modifications can be made within the scope of the present invention. For example, the size and shape of the panels and openings can be adjusted to accommodate items of different sizes or shapes.

[0076] Naturally, as used here, directional references such as top, bottom, base, front, back, end, side, inside, outside, top and bottom do not necessarily limit the respective panels to such orientation, but may only serve to distinguish these panels from one another.

[0077] As used herein, the terms “hinged connection” and “bend line” refer to all types of lines that define the hinge characteristics of the raw part, facilitate the bending portions of the raw part relative to each other, or otherwise indicate the ideal bending locations of the panel for the raw part. Any reference to “hinged connection” should not be interpreted as necessarily referring to a single bend line; in fact, a hinged connection may be formed by two or more bend lines, where each of the two or more bend lines may be straight / linear or curved / curvilinear. When linear bend lines form a hinged connection, they may be arranged parallel to or slightly angled relative to each other. When curvilinear bend lines form a hinged connection, they may intersect to define a molded panel within the area enclosed by the curvilinear bend lines.A typical example of such an articulated connection might comprise a pair of arched or curved fold lines that intersect at two points, so that they define an elliptical panel between them. An articulated connection may be formed by one or more linear fold lines and one or more curved fold lines. A typical example of such an articulated connection might comprise a combination of a linear fold line and an arched or curved fold line that intersect at two points, so that they define a half-moon shaped panel between them.

[0078] As used herein, the term “fold line” may refer to one of Petition 870250076449, dated 08 / 28 / 2025, p. 28 / 43 21 / 21 following: a crease line, an embossed line, an embossed line, a perforation line, a short slit line, a half-cut line, a single half-cut, a broken cut line, an aligned slit line, a crease line, and any combination of the options mentioned above.

[0079] It should be understood that articulated connections and bend lines may each include elements formed into the substrate of the raw piece, including perforations, a perforation line, a short slot line, a half-cut line, a single half-cut, a cut line, an interrupted cut line, slots, creases, any combination thereof and the like. The elements may be dimensioned and arranged to provide the desired functionality. For example, a perforation line may be dimensioned or designed with degrees of fragility to define a bend line or a cut line, or both. The perforation line may be designed to facilitate bending and resist breakage, to facilitate bending and facilitate breakage with more effort, or to facilitate breakage with little effort.

[0080] The expression “in registry with,” as used herein, refers to the alignment of two or more elements in an assembled box, such as an opening formed in a first of two overlapping panels and a second opening formed in a second of two overlapping panels. These elements in registry with each other may be aligned with each other in the direction of the thickness of the overlapping panels. For example, when an opening in a first panel is “in registry with” a second opening in a second panel that is placed in an overlapping arrangement with the first panel, an edge of the opening may extend along at least part of an edge of the second opening and may be aligned, in the direction of the thickness of the first and second panels, with the second opening. Petition 870250076449, dated 08 / 28 / 2025, page 29 / 43

Claims

1 / 5 CLAIMS 1. A blank part of an article carrier for packing a plurality of articles, characterized in that the blank part comprises a primary panel including a handle structure, the primary panel comprising at least two article retention structures for engaging the respective articles, each of the at least two article retention structures comprising an opening in the primary panel and a plurality of engagement teeth formed from the primary panel and articulately connected to it, wherein a first of the at least two article retention structures comprises a first engagement tooth extending from a proximal end thereof in a first direction to a distal end thereof,A second of the at least two article retention structures is disposed adjacent to the first of the at least two article retention structures and comprises a second engagement tooth extending from a proximal end thereof away from the first engagement tooth in a second direction to a distal end thereof, and wherein the loop structure comprises a first loop opening disposed between the proximal ends of the first and second engagement teeth.

2. A raw piece, according to claim 1, characterized in that a handle opening center is disposed between the proximal ends of the first and second engagement teeth.

3. A rough part, according to claim 1, characterized in that the first engagement tooth is defined in part by a first pair of opposing lateral edges, wherein the second engagement tooth is defined in part by a second pair of opposing lateral edges, wherein an outer end of a first edge of the first pair of opposing lateral edges and an outer end of a first edge of the second pair of opposing lateral edges define a first notional boundary line, wherein an outer end of a second edge of the first pair of opposing lateral edges and an outer end of a second edge of the second pair of opposing lateral edges define a second notional boundary line, the first and second boundary lines Petition 870250076449, dated 08 / 28 / 2025, p.30 / 43 2 / 5 notional lines defining a region of the primary panel between them, and wherein a handle opening center is located in said region of the primary panel defined by the first and second notional boundary lines.

4. A rough part according to claim 3, characterized in that the first notional boundary line is parallel to the second boundary line.

5. A blank part according to claim 1, characterized in that the first engagement tooth is defined in part by a first pair of opposing lateral edges, wherein the second engagement tooth is defined in part by a second pair of opposing lateral edges, wherein each edge of the first pair of lateral edges is linear, wherein each edge of the second pair of lateral edges is linear, wherein notional lines collinear with the first and second pairs of lateral edges define an area of ​​the primary panel, the area extending between the distal ends of the first and second engagement teeth, and wherein the handle opening is disposed within said area of ​​the primary panel.

6. A rough part according to claim 5, characterized in that the notional lines define a parallelogram.

7. A raw part according to claim 1, characterized in that a notional transverse line extends between a center of the first of at least two article retention structures and a center of the second of at least two article retention structures, and the handle opening lies on the notional transverse line.

8. A rough piece, according to claim 7, characterized in that the notional line extends perpendicularly to a side edge of the primary panel.

9. A rough piece, according to claim 8, characterized in that the side edge of the primary panel is defined by a hinged connection between the primary panel and a side panel.

10. A rough part according to claim 3, characterized in that a notional line extends between a center of the first of at least two article retention structures and a center of the second of at least two article retention structures, a handle opening center lies on the notional line, and wherein the notional line is equidistant between the first and second notional boundary lines and parallel to them.

11. Raw part, according to claim 1, characterized in that the article carrier comprises a pair of opposing side panels articulated to the primary panel.

12. A blank part according to claim 1, characterized in that a third of the at least two article retention structures comprises a third engagement tooth extending from a proximal end in the first direction to a distal end, a fourth of the at least two article retention structures is disposed adjacent to the third of the at least two article retention structures, the fourth of the at least two article retention structures comprises a fourth engagement tooth extending from a proximal end thereof, moving away from the third engagement tooth in the second direction to a distal end thereof, and wherein the loop structure further comprises a second loop opening disposed, at least in part, between the proximal ends of the third and fourth engagement teeth.

13. Article carrier for packaging a plurality of articles, characterized in that the article carrier comprises a primary panel including a handle structure, the primary panel comprising at least two article retention structures for engaging respective articles, each of the at least two article retention structures comprising an opening in the primary panel and a plurality of engagement teeth formed from the primary panel and articulately connected to it, wherein a first of the at least two article retention structures comprises a first engagement tooth extending from a proximal end thereof in a first direction to a distal end thereof, a second of the at least two article retention structures is disposed adjacent to the first of the at least two article retention structures and comprises a second engagement tooth. Petition 870250076449, dated 08 / 28 / 2025, p.32 / 43 4 / 5 extending from a proximal end thereof away from the first engagement tooth in a second direction to a distal end thereof, and wherein the loop structure comprises a loop opening disposed, at least in part, between the proximal ends of the first and second engagement teeth.

14. Article carrier, according to claim 13, characterized in that a third of the at least two article retention structures comprises a third engagement tooth extending from a proximal end thereof in the first direction to a distal end thereof, a fourth of the at least two article retention structures is disposed adjacent to the third of the at least two article retention structures, the fourth of the at least two article retention structures comprises a fourth engagement tooth extending from a proximal end thereof, moving away from the third engagement tooth in the second direction to a distal end thereof, and wherein the loop structure comprises a second loop opening disposed, at least in part, between the proximal ends of the third and fourth engagement teeth.

15. A rough piece, according to claim 3, characterized in that the opposite lateral edges of the first pair are defined by cutting lines, respectively, and in that the opposite lateral edges of the second pair are defined by cutting lines, respectively, 16. A rough part according to claim 15, characterized in that the cutting lines defining the first pair of opposing side edges extend radially outward from the opening of the first of at least two article retention structures, and in that the cutting lines defining the second pair of opposing side edges extend radially outward from the opening of the second of at least two article retention structures.

17. Raw part, according to claim 1, characterized in that the first engagement tooth is articulated at the proximal end to the primary panel by a hinged connection, and in that the second engagement tooth is articulated at the proximal end to the primary panel by a hinged connection.

18. A raw part, according to claim 7, characterized in that the first engagement tooth and the second engagement tooth are arranged on opposite sides of a longitudinal central axis of the primary panel, the longitudinal central axis being perpendicular to the notional transverse line.

19. Raw part, according to claim 7, characterized in that the center of the handle opening is on the notional transverse line.

20. Raw part, according to claim 3, characterized in that the center of the handle opening is at a midpoint of a notional line that longitudinally bisects the handle opening. Petition 870250076449, dated 08 / 28 / 2025, pp. 34 / 43

Images