Carrier for containers

Abstract

A carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the carrier comprising: a plurality of panels having at least one attachment panel, at least one side panel, and at least one top panel, the at least one attachment panel configured to receive a portion of one or more of the plurality of containers; and a locking feature for maintaining an upright configuration of the carrier, the locking feature comprising at least one male locking feature extending from a respective panel of the plurality of panels, the male locking feature being at least partially received in a respective at least one female locking feature at least partially defined in a respective panel of the plurality of panels.

Description

[0001] CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 216,062, filed June 29, 2021.

[0003] INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0004] The disclosure of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 216,062, filed June 29, 2021, is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes as if presented herein in its entirety. BACKGROUND

[0005] The present disclosure relates generally to cartons or carriers for holding, displaying, and / or transporting containers. SUMMARY

[0006] According to one aspect, the present disclosure relates generally to a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the carrier comprising: a plurality of panels including at least one attachment panel, at least one side panel, and at least one top panel, the at least one attachment panel configured to receive a portion of one or more containers of the plurality of containers; and a locking feature for maintaining an upright configuration of the carrier, the locking feature comprising at least one male locking feature extending from a respective panel of the plurality of panels, the male locking feature being at least partially received in a respective at least one female locking feature at least partially defined in a respective panel of the plurality of panels.

[0007] According to another aspect, the present disclosure relates generally to a blank for forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the blank comprising: a plurality of panels including at least one attachment panel, at least one side panel, and at least one top panel, the at least one attachment panel configured to receive a portion of one or more containers of the plurality of containers; and a locking feature for maintaining an upright configuration of the carrier formed from the blank, the locking feature comprising at least one male locking feature extending from a respective panel of the plurality of panels for at least partial receipt in a respective at least one female locking feature at least partially defined in a respective panel of the plurality of panels when the carrier is formed from the blank.

[0008] According to another aspect, the present disclosure is generally directed to a method for forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the method comprising: obtaining a blank, the blank comprising a plurality of panels, the plurality of panels comprising at least one attachment panel, at least one side panel, and at least one top panel, the at least one attachment panel configured to receive a portion of one or more of a plurality of containers, and a locking feature, the locking feature comprising at least one male locking feature extending from a respective one of the plurality of panels and at least one female locking feature at least partially defined in a respective one of the plurality of panels; positioning the at least one attachment panel for at least partial receipt of one or more of the plurality of containers; and at least partially inserting the at least one male locking feature through the at least one female locking feature to maintain an upright configuration of the carrier.

[0009] The above advantages and other advantages and benefits will be understood by persons of ordinary skill in the art by reading the following detailed description of the embodiments along with the accompanying drawings, in which: BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0010] In accordance with common practice the various features illustrated in the drawings can not be drawn to scale. Dimensions of various features and elements in the drawings can be expanded or reduced for the sake of clarity.

[0011] Figure 1 is a plan view of an outer surface of a blank for forming a carrier and packaging in accordance with a first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0012] Figure 1A is a portion of the blank of Figure 1 enlarged view.

[0013] Figure 1B is another portion of the blank of Figure 1 enlarged view.

[0014] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a carrier and packaging formed from the blank of Figure 1 in accordance with the first exemplary embodiment.

[0015] Figure 3 is a perspective view of a carrier and packaging formed from the blank of Figure 1 in accordance with the first exemplary embodiment.

[0016] Figure 4 is a plan view of an outer surface of a blank for forming a carrier and packaging in accordance with a second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0017] Figure 4Ais a schematic view of a portion of a side of a carrier and package formed from a blank according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 4 is a schematic view of a portion of a side of a carrier and package formed from a blank according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0018] Figure 5 is a plan view of an outer surface of a blank for forming a carrier and package according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0019] Figure 5A is a schematic view of a portion of a side of a carrier and package formed from a blank according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 5 is a schematic view of a portion of a side of a carrier and package formed from a blank according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0020] Figure 6 is a plan view of an outer surface of a blank for forming a carrier and package according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0021] Figure 6A is a schematic view of a portion of a side of a carrier and package formed from a blank according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 6 is a schematic view of a portion of a side of a carrier and package formed from a blank according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0022] Figure 7 is a plan view of an outer surface of a blank for forming a carrier and package according to a fifth exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0023] Figure 7A is a schematic view of a portion of a side of a carrier and package formed from a blank according to a fifth exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 7 is a schematic view of a portion of a side of a carrier and package formed from a blank according to a fifth exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0024] Figure 8 is a plan view of an outer surface of a blank for forming a carrier and package according to a sixth exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0025] Figure 8A is a schematic view of a portion of a side of a carrier and package formed from a blank according to a sixth exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. Figure 8 is a schematic view of a portion of a side of a carrier and package formed from a blank according to a sixth exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0026] Throughout the drawings, corresponding parts are identified by corresponding reference numbers. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0027] The present disclosure relates generally to carriers, packages, constructions, sleeves, cartons, or the like for holding and displaying containers such as jars, bottles, cans, and the like. For example, the containers can be used to package food and beverage products. The containers can be made of a material that is ingredient appropriate for packaging a particular food or beverage, and the material includes, but is not limited to, glass; plastic such as PET, LDPE, LLDPE, HDPE, PP, PS, PVC, EVOH, and nylon; and the like; aluminum and / or other metals; or any combination thereof.

[0028] The carrier according to this disclosure can accommodate containers of various shapes. For illustrative purposes and not for limiting the scope of this disclosure, the following detailed description describes beverage containers (e.g., aluminum cans) at least partially disposed in embodiments of the carrier. In this specification, the terms “lower,” “bottom,” “upper,” “top,” “front,” and “rear” indicate orientation determined relative to a fully upright carrier.

[0029] As described herein, a carrier may be formed from multiple overlapping panels, end folds, and / or other portions of a blank. Without departing from this disclosure, such panels, end folds, and / or other portions of a blank may be designated in terms of relative terms with respect to each other, using sequential or non-sequential references (e.g., “first,” “second,” “third,” etc.).

[0030] Figure 1 An embodiment for forming a carrier 105 according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. Figure 2 A plan view of the outer side 101 of the blank 103. (See figure) Figure 2 As shown, the carrier 105 is sized to accommodate or support six containers, with three containers CA1, CA2, and CA3 attached to the front portion 106 of the carrier 105, and three containers CB1, CB2, and CB3 attached to the rear portion 108 of the carrier 105. In the illustrated embodiment, without departing from this disclosure, containers CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, and CB3 may be beverage cans, or may be any other suitable type and size of container. In some embodiments, the containers may have an upper edge or other top portion with an outer diameter of 53 mm, 58 mm, or 56 mm.

[0031] The size and shape of the carrier 105 can be configured to hold more or fewer six containers. In one embodiment, without departing from this disclosure, both the front portion 106 and the rear portion 108 of the carrier 105 have three containers, and in other embodiments, the front portion 106 and the rear portion 108 of the carrier 105 can carry more or fewer three containers. The carrier 105 can be provided together with one or more containers as packaging 110. Figure 2 ).

[0032] like Figure 1As shown, blank 103 has a longitudinal axis LI and a transverse axis L2. Blank 103 has a front portion 107 for forming a front portion 106 of carrier 105 and a back portion 109 for forming a back portion 108 of carrier 105. Front portion 107 and back portion 109 of blank 103 are foldably connected at a transverse fold line 112, which forms a transverse center line CL of blank 103, as shown, and which can be interrupted by a plurality of transversely spaced-apart cutouts or locking openings 132 (broadly, “female locking features” or “second female locking features”). As described herein, a locking opening can refer to an opening formed in one or more portions of a blank / carrier and / or a cutout or other line of weakness that facilitates such separation when the one or more portions of the blank / carrier are separated.

[0033] With continued reference to Figure 1 , front portion 107 of blank 103 can include a front container retention panel or front attachment panel 131a, and a pair of transversely spaced-apart handle openings 130 can interrupt fold line 112 and extend at least partially into attachment panel 131a. As also shown, handle openings 130 can extend into portions of back portion 109 of blank 103.

[0034] With additional reference to Figure 1A , an enlarged view of front attachment panel 131a can also include a container retention portion 135a defined at least partially between a pair of longitudinally spaced-apart transverse fold lines 137a, 139a, which are each interrupted by a respective pair of longitudinally spaced-apart cutouts 141a, which can each include one or more curved and / or angled portions. As shown, longitudinally spaced-apart cutouts 141a define a container retention tab 148a that extends outwardly from container retention portion 135a. As also shown, respective angled cutouts 143a, 145a can extend outwardly from one or more cutouts 141a that interrupt fold line 139a. Further, a longitudinal cutout 146a can extend outwardly from a respective central portion of cutouts 141a.

[0035] As shown, an inner edge portion 136a of attachment panel 131a is defined at least partially between fold lines 137a, 112, and an outer edge portion 138a of attachment panel 131a is defined at least partially between fold line 139a and a transverse fold line 157a adjacent to attachment panel 131a.

[0036] Blank 103 can also include locking features for forming locking features of carrier 105. Such locking features can include a plurality of male locking features and a plurality of female locking features configured to at least partially receive a portion of a respective male locking feature. As shown, the locking features can include a pair of locking tabs 134 (broadly, “male locking features” or “fourth male locking features”) that extend from the attachment panel 131a and interrupt the fold line 137a and extend into the respective handle aperture 130. The locking features of blank 103 / carry 105 positioned in the attachment panel 131a can also include a plurality of locking openings 140a (broadly, “female locking features” or “first female locking features”) at least partially defined in the container retention portion 135a of the attachment panel 135a and intersecting the respective cutout 141a along the fold line 137a, and a plurality of locking openings 142 (broadly, “female locking features” or “first female locking features” or “fourth female locking features”) laterally spaced apart from the locking openings 140a and at least partially defined in the container retention portion 135 of the attachment panel 131a.

[0037] As shown, the bevel or front side panel 155a is foldably connected to the front attachment panel 131a at a lateral fold line 157a, and the front top panel 159a is foldably connected to the front side panel 155a at a lateral fold line 161a. As described further herein, the lateral fold line 161a can be interrupted by a plurality of cutouts 141a so as to define a container retention tab 148a that protrudes from the top panel 159. Positioned along each container retention tab 148a is a respective locking tab 144 (broadly, “male locking features” or “first male locking features” or “third male locking features”) formed by a respective line of weakness 150 having one or more curved, angled, and / or straight portions such that the locking tab 144 extends from the top panel 159a. While the fold line 161a is illustrated as extending partially along the lateral length of the blank 103, it should be appreciated that the fold line 161a can extend the entire lateral length of the blank 103 without departing from this disclosure.

[0038] The front locking panel 163a can be foldably connected to the top panel 159a at a transverse fold line 165a that is interrupted by a plurality of transversely spaced locking tabs 167a (broadly, "male locking features" or "first male locking features") formed by respective curved cutouts 168a so as to be arranged for extending from the locking panel 163a. As further described herein, the locking panel 163a can include a handle feature including a handle reinforcing flap or tab 169a foldably connected to the front locking panel 163a at a respective longitudinal fold line 171a and for alignment / engagement with the respective handle opening 130.

[0039] Still referring to Figure 1 , the locking tabs 173 (broadly, "male locking features" or "second male locking features") can be foldably connected to the front locking panel 163a at respective transverse fold lines 175 and / or can otherwise extend from the front locking panel 163a. As shown, the locking tabs 173 can have a base portion or locking head / feature that expands to a distal portion to present a plurality of locking edges.

[0040] In the illustrated embodiment, the rear portion 109 of the blank 103 includes a rear container retention panel or rear attachment panel 131b, a rear slant panel or rear side panel 155b, a rear top panel 159b, and a rear locking panel 163b having associated features that are generally mirror images of corresponding portions of the front portion 107 of the blank 103. Corresponding components (e.g., panels, flaps, fold lines, cutouts, etc.) have been designated by corresponding reference numerals, with the exception of the "a" or "b" suffix, where the "a" components correspond to the front portion 107 of the blank 103 and the "b" components correspond to the rear portion 109 of the blank 103. Figure 1B An enlarged view of a portion of the rear portion 109 of the blank 103 is illustrated in FIG.

[0041] With continuing reference to Figure 1A and Figure 1B As shown, the rear attachment panel 131b can be devoid of locking tabs 134 and locking openings 142. Further, the rear top panel 155b can be devoid of locking tabs 144.

[0042] Regarding the rear locking panel 163b, the rear locking panel 163b may be at least partially bisected by a transverse fold line or other weakening line 164b to form its proximal and distal portions, or to form a first rear top panel and a second rear top panel. As shown, a plurality of transversely spaced locking openings 177 (generally referred to as "female locking features," "third female locking features," or "fifth female locking features") may be at least partially defined in the rear locking panel 163b, and a plurality of generally polygonal (e.g., pentagonal) locking openings 179 (generally referred to as "female locking features," "third female locking features," "fourth female locking features," or "fifth female locking features") may extend from the respective locking openings 177 toward the transverse free edge 181 (generally referred to as "locking edge" or "locking tab") of the rear locking panel 163b.

[0043] like Figure 1 As shown, the handle features of the rear locking panel 163b may further include a pair of laterally spaced handle openings 183 adjacent to corresponding handle reinforcing folds 169b that extend into the handle openings 183. Although the handle openings 183 are shown as generally crescent-shaped or otherwise curved, the handle openings 183 may be arranged differently without departing from this disclosure.

[0044] Without departing from this disclosure, any panels, folds, fold lines, cuts or other features may be otherwise shaped, arranged and / or omitted from blank 103. Blank 103 may be sized and / or shaped to accommodate more or fewer than six containers without departing from this disclosure.

[0045] For further reference Figure 2 to Figure 3 According to an exemplary embodiment of forming carrier 105, blank 103 can be inverted such that the outer surface 101 of blank 103 can be placed on top of containers CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, CB3, such that the container holding portion 135a of the front attachment panel 131a covers containers CA1, CA2, CA3, and the container holding portion 135b of the rear attachment panel 131b covers containers CB1, CB2, CB3. Further moving the attachment panels 131a, 131b downwards above the plurality of containers CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, CB3 can activate the corresponding container holding portions 135a, 135b to engage the corresponding containers.

[0046] For example, as the front attachment panel 131a is lowered or pushed down onto the container CA1, CA2, CA3, the container retention portion 135a can at least partially separate from the rest of the front attachment panel 131a at the cutout 141a. In this arrangement, an upper or top portion T of the respective container CA1, CA2, CA3 can at least partially extend through a respective opening formed by the respective cutout 141a, such that the container retention tab 148a can seat within a recessed portion of the container CA1, CA2, CA3 (e.g., a recessed top of the container CA1, CA2, CA3) below a rolled upper rim of the container.

[0047] The edge portions 136a, 138a of the attachment panel 131a can be at least partially folded downward in this configuration at respective fold lines 137a, 139a, and similarly, the edge portions 136b, 138b of the attachment panel 131b can be at least partially folded downward at respective fold lines 137b, 139b. This movement can cause a reconfiguration of the outer edge portion 138a of the top attachment panel 131a to reconfigure at the respective cutouts 143a, 145a, 146a to engage a rolled / flanged rim or other top structure of the respective container CA1, CA2, CA3.

[0048] The rear attachment panel 131b and corresponding container retention portion 135b can engage the container CB1, CB2, CB3 in a similar manner as described above with respect to the engagement of the front attachment panel 131a and container retention portion 135a with respect to the container CA1, CA2, CA3. A reconfiguration of the corresponding portions of the rear attachment panel 131b can occur as the rear attachment panel 131b is lowered or pushed down onto the container CB1, CB2, CB3, as described above with respect to the front attachment panel 131a.

[0049] Still referring to Figure 2 and Figure 3In this regard, the rolled-over rim or other top structure of the respective container CA1, CA2, CA3 can be at least partially received through the cutout 141a along the fold line 161a such that the container retention tab 148a extending from the top panel 159a can also seat within the recessed upper portion of the container CA1, CA2, CA3.

[0050] Similarly, the rear side panel 155b can be folded upward at the fold line 157b into an inclined arrangement relative to the attached portion 135b of the rear attached panel 131b, and the rear top panel 159b can be folded at the fold line 161b into at least partial face-to-face contact with the top panel 159b and / or the attached panel 131b. This movement of the rear top panel 155b can cause engagement with the container CB1, CB2, CB3 in a similar manner as described above with respect to the engagement of the front top panel 159a with the containers CA1, CA2, CA3.

[0051] The rear locking panel 163b can be folded at the fold line 165b to at least partially cover the respective portion of the attached panel 131b. In this arrangement, the locking tab 167b (broadly, a “male locking feature” or a “fifth male locking feature”) can be at least partially separated from the fold line 165b and at least partially inserted through / received in a locking opening 140b (broadly, a “female locking feature” or a “first female locking feature” or a “sixth female locking feature”) at least partially defined in the rear attached panel 131b to position the locking tab 167b at least partially tucked underneath the rear attached panel 131b. Further, a locking edge 181 of the rear locking panel 163b can be tucked underneath or otherwise extend underneath the locking tab 134 extending from the front attached panel 131a. In this regard, the locking tab 134 can be positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the respective portion of the rear locking panel 163b.

[0052] In the above-described arrangement, the locking opening 177 can be positioned above / aligned with the locking opening 132 along the fold line 112, and the locking opening 179 can be positioned above / aligned with the locking opening 140a in the front attached panel 131a.

[0053] Thereafter, the rear locking panel 163a can be folded at the fold line 165a to at least partially cover the corresponding portion of the attachment panel 131a. In this arrangement, the locking tab 144 can be at least partially detached from the container retention tab 148a in the front top panel 159a at the weakening line 150 and at least partially inserted through the edge of the locking opening 142 in the front attachment panel 131a or tucked under the edge of the locking opening. In some embodiments, the locking tab 144 can be at least partially detached from the container retention tab 148a at the weakening line 150 and at least partially inserted through the locking opening 179 in the front top panel 159a.

[0054] Further, the locking tab 167a can be at least partially detached from the front top panel 159a at the cutout 160a and can be at least partially inserted through and received in the aligned locking openings 179, 140a. This movement of the panels of the blank 103 / carrier 105 can also position the locking tab 173 over the aligned locking openings 177, 132 such that the locking tab 173 can be manipulated to be at least partially inserted through and received in the locking openings 177, 132. For example, the locking tab 173 can be at least partially folded downward at the corresponding fold line 175, inserted through the locking openings 177, and at least partially inserted through the locking openings 132 aligned thereunder.

[0055] This interlocking engagement of the locking features of the carrier 105 and the carriers and packages disclosed herein can provide a robust structure of the carrier that resists incidental loosening / movement / displacement and can help maintain the upright configuration of the carrier 105 and the tight and secure engagement with the containers CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, CB3. For example, the above-described arrangement of the locking features presents multiple layers of the material forming the carrier 105 (e.g., paperboard) and interfering edges such that the various locking features provide a compounded effect of enhancing the strength / integrity of the carrier 105. In some embodiments, the engagement of the various male locking features and the corresponding female locking features described herein can provide a desired level of tension or tightness of the carrier around the containers. Figure 3 A schematic illustration of the interaction of the locking features of the carrier 105 is provided in FIG. 16. In this regard, the blank 103 / carrier 105 can be formed and maintained in the upright configuration with minimal application of adhesives, such as glue, or in embodiments, without adhesives, such as glue.

[0056] The above-described arrangement of panels of the carrier can thus align various handle features, such as the handle reinforcement flaps 169a, 169b (and the adjacent handle openings 183) and the handle opening 130, so that a user can insert one or more of his or her fingers down against the reinforcement flaps 169a, 169b to at least partially disengage them from the respective locking panels 163a, 163b, and fold down at the respective fold lines 171a, 171b to allow the user to grasp the carrier 105 along the portion of the attachment panels 131a, 131b exposed beneath the handle opening 130. For the comfort of the user, the reinforcement flaps 169a, 169b can provide an additional layer of material between the user’s fingers and the carrier, for example as a cushion, so as to, for example, resist deformation / tearing of one or more portions of the carrier 105, to avoid pinching the user’s fingers, etc.

[0057] The above-described package 110 / carrier 105 has a compact structure that can, for example, save material and reduce waste. Moreover, the exposure of one or more portions of the containers CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, CB3 at the exterior portions of the carrier 105 / package 110 provides a clear view of the labels or surface graphics associated with the containers CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, CB3 to the customer, as well as a convenient pathway for removing one or more of the containers CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, CB3 from the carrier 105 / package 110, for example by extracting the respective container through the respective cutout 141a, 141b to disengage the container from the respective panel 131a, 131b, 159a, 159b.

[0058] Figure 4 is a plan view of an outer surface 201 of a blank 203 for forming a carrier 205 Figure 4A ) and a package 210 Figure 4A ) according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The blank 203 and the carrier 205 / package 210 formed from the blank 203 can have one or more features that are the same as or similar to the above-described features for the blank 103 and the carrier 105 / package 110, and the same or similar features are identified with the same or similar reference numerals. Thus, the blank 203 can include a front portion 207 for forming a front portion 206 of the carrier 205 / package 210, and a rear portion 209 for forming a rear portion 208 of the carrier 205 / package 210.

[0059] The blank 203 can have a longitudinal axis LI and a transverse axis L2, the attachment panels 131a, 131b, the side panels 155a, 155b, the top panels 159a, 159b, and the associated features.

[0060] Further, the locking openings 142 positioned in the attachment panel 131a of the blank 203 can be front locking openings 142a, and rear locking openings 142b (broadly, “female locking features” or “first female locking features” or “third female locking features”) can be at least partially defined in the attachment panel 131b of the blank 203. Further, the locking tabs 144 in the container retention tabs extending from the top panel 159a can be front locking tabs 144a, and the blank 203 can further include rear locking tabs 144b (broadly, “male locking features” or “third male locking features”) in the container retention tabs 148b extending from the rear top panel 159b.

[0061] With continued reference to Figure 4 Locking tabs similar to the locking tabs 173 described above can be front locking tabs 173a attached to the top panel 159a at respective transverse fold lines 175a, and the blank 203 can further include rear locking tabs 173b (broadly, “male locking features” or “fourth male locking features”) foldably connected to and extending from the top panel 159b at respective transverse fold lines 175b.

[0062] In this regard, the blank 203 and the carrier 205 / package 210 formed from the blank 203 can have a different number and arrangement of panels, handle features, and locking features as compared to the blank 103 and the carrier 105 / package 110 described above. It will be appreciated that the blank 203 / carrier 205 / package 210 can have further different arrangements and / or configurations without departing from the present disclosure.

[0063] With additional reference to Figure 4A , the blank 203 can be formed into the carrier 205 / package 210 in a similar manner as described above with respect to the formation of the carrier 105 / package 110 from the blank 103 without the action of the locking panels 163a, 163b as described above. For example, the containers CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, CB3 can be at least partially received via the relative folding of one or more portions of the respective attachment panels 131a, 131b as described above through the openings formed in the respective attachment panels 131a, 131b. As described above, the side panels 155a, 155b can also be positioned generally oblique with respect to the respective portions of the attachment panels 131a, 131b, and the top panels 159a, 159b can be positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the respective portions of the attachment panels 131a, 131b as described above.

[0064] As Figure 4AAs shown in the schematic illustration of FIG. 17, when the top panel 159a, 159b is positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the respective portion of the respective attachment panel 131a, 131b as described above, the locking tab 173a, 173b can be positioned in general alignment over the respective locking opening 132 interrupting the fold line 112. Accordingly, the locking tab 173a, 173b can be folded downwardly at the respective fold line 175a, 175b and at least partially inserted through and received in the respective locking opening 132. In this arrangement, the one or more flared or flanged portions of the respective locking tab 173a, 173b can engage the underside of one or both of the respective attachment panel 131a, 131b to maintain secure engagement of the locking tab 173a, 173b through the locking opening 132.

[0065] As shown in the schematic illustration of FIG. 17, when the top panel 159a, 159b is positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the respective portion of the respective attachment panel 131a, 131b as described above, the locking tab 173a, 173b can be positioned in general alignment over the respective locking opening 132 interrupting the fold line 112. Accordingly, the locking tab 173a, 173b can be folded downwardly at the respective fold line 175a, 175b and at least partially inserted through and received in the respective locking opening 132. In this arrangement, the one or more flared or flanged portions of the respective locking tab 173a, 173b can engage the underside of one or both of the respective attachment panel 131a, 131b to maintain secure engagement of the locking tab 173a, 173b through the locking opening 132.

[0066] The foregoing construction of the carrier 205 / package 210 can provide secure and robust engagement of various panels and portions thereof to support one or more containers, with advantages similar to those described above with respect to the carrier 105 / package 110. In some embodiments, this construction of the carrier 205 / package 210 can be provided so as to avoid or minimize the use of polymeric materials such as adhesives (e.g., glue).

[0067] Figure 5 is a plan view of an outer surface 301 of a blank 303 for forming a carrier 305 Figure 5A ) and a package 310 Figure 5A ) according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The blank 303 and the carrier 305 / package 310 formed from the blank 303 can have one or more features that are the same as or similar to those described above with respect to the aforementioned blanks 103, 203 and carriers 105, 205 / packages 110, 210, and like or similar features are identified with like or similar reference numerals. Thus, the blank 303 can include a front portion 307 for forming a front portion 306 of the carrier 305 / package 310 and a back portion 309 for forming a back portion 308 of the carrier 305 / package 310.

[0068] Blank 303 can have longitudinal and lateral axes LI and L2, attachment panels 131a, 131b, side panels 155a, 155b, top panels 159a, 159b, and associated features. Blank 303 can also include locking openings 132, 142a, 142b, and locking tabs 144a, 144b, 173. An additional locking opening 185 (broadly, a "female locking feature" or a "second female locking feature" or a "fourth female locking feature") can be at least partially defined in rear top panel 159b. It will be appreciated that blank 303 / carrier 305 / package 310 can have further different arrangements and / or configurations without departing from this disclosure.

[0069] Reference is additionally made to Figure 5A FIG. 6, which illustrates a perspective view of a blank 303 (broadly, a "second blank" or a "fourth blank") that can be formed into a carrier 305 / package 310, in accordance with at least some embodiments of the present disclosure. As shown, blank 303 can include a first attachment panel 131a, a second attachment panel 131b, a first side panel 155a, a second side panel 155b, a first top panel 159a, a second top panel 159b, and associated features. Blank 303 can also include a locking opening 132, a first locking tab 144a, a second locking tab 144b, and a locking tab 173. It will be appreciated that blank 303 / carrier 305 / package 310 can have further different arrangements and / or configurations without departing from this disclosure.

[0070] Locking tab 144a can be separated from container retention tab 148a at respective weakened line 150a and stowed beneath attachment panel 131a via at least partial receipt through respective opening 142a as described above. Similarly, locking tab 144b can be separated from container retention tab 148b at respective weakened line 150b and inserted / received at least partially through respective opening 142b so as to be stowed beneath attachment panel 131b.

[0071] When the top panels 159a, 159b are positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the respective portions of the respective attachment panels 131a, 131b as described above, the locking openings 185 can be positioned in general alignment over the locking openings 132 interrupting the fold lines 112, and the locking tabs 173 can be positioned over the aligned locking openings 185, 132. In this regard, the locking tabs 173 can be folded downward at the respective fold lines 175, inserted through and received in the locking openings 185, and further inserted through and received in the locking openings 132. In this arrangement, the one or more flared or flanged portions of the respective locking tabs 173 can engage the underside of one or both of the respective attachment panels 131a, 131b to maintain secure engagement of the locking tabs 173 through the locking openings 132.

[0072] The foregoing construction of the carrier 305 / package 310 can provide for secure and robust engagement of the various panels and portions thereof to support one or more containers, with advantages similar to those described above with respect to the carriers 105, 205 / packages 110, 210. In some embodiments, this construction of the carrier 305 / package 310 can be provided so as to avoid or minimize the use of polymeric materials such as adhesives (e.g., glue).

[0073] Figure 6 is a plan view of an outer surface 401 of a blank 403 for forming a carrier 405 Figure 6A ) and a package 410 Figure 6A ) according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The blank 403 and the carrier 405 / package 410 formed from the blank 403 can have one or more features that are the same as or similar to those described above with respect to the above-described blanks 103, 203, 303 and carriers 105, 205, 305 / packages 110, 210, 310, and like or similar features are identified with like or similar reference numerals. Thus, the blank 403 can include a front portion 407 for forming a front portion 406 of the carrier 405 / package 410 and a back portion 409 for forming a back portion 408 of the carrier 405 / package 410.

[0074] The blank 403 can have a longitudinal axis LI and a transverse axis L2, the attachment panels 131a, 131b, the side panels 155a, 155b, the top panels 159a, 159b, and the associated features. The blank 403 can also include the locking openings 132, 142a, 142b and the locking tabs 144a, 144b, 173.

[0075] As shown, the locking openings 185 can be at least partially defined at locations along / adjacent the top panel 159b that are spaced further longitudinally from the central fold line 112 as compared to the blank 303 described above. Further, the tabs 187 can extend away from the respective locking openings 185 such that the tabs 187 can be at least partially foldably connected to the top panel 159b at the respective locking openings 185. In one embodiment, the locking openings 185 can be collinear with the free edges of the top panel 159b.

[0076] In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 403 can be provided with a greater number of locking tabs 173a than in the embodiments described above. In some embodiments, the blank 403 can include 5 locking tabs 173a, although a greater or lesser number of locking tabs 173a can be provided without departing from the present disclosure.

[0077] The locking tabs 173b can be arranged in an alternating arrangement with the tabs 187 such that respective locking tabs 173b are generally aligned with respective locking tabs 173a along an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis LI, and such that respective tabs 187 are generally aligned with respective locking tabs 173a along an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis LI.

[0078] With additional reference to Figure 6A the illustrated diagram (in which the panels that extend below are illustrated in dashed lines for clarity), the blank 403 can be formed into the carrier 405 / package 410 in a manner similar to that described above with respect to the formation of the carrier 105, 205, 305 / package 110, 210, 310 from the blanks 103, 203, 303 as described above. For example, the containers CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, CB3 can be at least partially received via the relative folding of one or more portions of the respective attachment panels 131a, 131b as described above through the openings formed in the respective attachment panels 131a, 131b. As described above, the side panels 155a, 155b can also be positioned generally oblique with respect to the respective portions of the attachment panels 131a, 131b, and the top panels 159a, 159b can be positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the respective portions of the attachment panels 131a, 131b as described above.

[0079] The locking tabs 144a can be separated from the container retention tabs 148a at the respective weakened lines 150a, and stowed beneath the attachment panel 131a through the respective openings 142a as described above. Similarly, the locking tabs 144b can be separated from the container retention tabs 148b at the respective weakened lines 150b, and at least partially inserted through the respective openings 142b so as to be stowed beneath the attachment panel 131b.

[0080] When the top panels 159a, 159b are positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the respective portions of the respective attachment panels 131a, 131b as described above, some of the locking tabs 173a, 173b can be generally aligned over the locking openings 132 interrupting the fold lines 112, and the locking tabs 173a interspersed therebetween can be generally aligned with the tabs 187. In this regard, the locking tabs 173a, 173b aligned over the locking openings 132 can be folded downward at the respective fold lines 175a, 175b and at least partially inserted through the locking openings 132. In such an arrangement, the flared or flanged portions of one or more of the respective locking tabs 173a, 173b can engage the underside of one or both of the respective attachment panels 131a, 131b to maintain secure engagement of the locking tabs 173a, 173b through the locking openings 132.

[0081] Furthermore, the locking tabs 173a aligned with the respective locking openings 185 / tabs 187 can be at least partially inserted through the locking openings 185, for example, to maintain and / or enhance the positioning of the attachment panels 131a, 131b relative to one another. In some embodiments, the tabs 187 can be at least partially folded downward at the weakening lines associated with the tabs 187 to facilitate at least partial receipt of the locking tabs 173a in the locking openings 185. In other embodiments, the locking tabs 173a can be at least partially inserted through the locking openings 185 and positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the tabs 187.

[0082] The foregoing construction of the carrier 405 / package 410 can provide secure and robust engagement of the various panels and portions thereof to support one or more containers, with advantages similar to those described above with respect to the carriers 105, 205, 305 / packages 110, 210, 310. In some embodiments, such construction of the carrier 405 / package 410 can be provided so as to avoid or minimize the use of polymeric materials such as adhesives (e.g., glue).

[0083] Figure 7 is a carrier 505( Figure 7A ) and package 410( Figure 7Aa plan view of the outer surface 501 of the blank 503. The blank 503 and the carrier 505 / package 510 formed from the blank 503 can have one or more features that are the same as or similar to those described above with respect to the blanks 103, 203, 303, 403 and the carriers 105, 205, 305, 405 / packages 110, 210, 310, 410 described above, and same or similar features are identified with same or similar reference numerals. Thus, the blank 503 can include a front portion 507 for forming a front portion 506 of the carrier 505 / package 510 and a back portion 509 for forming a back portion 508 of the carrier 505 / package 510.

[0084] The blank 503 can have a longitudinal axis LI and a transverse axis L2, the attachment panels 131a, 131b, the side panels 155a, 155b, the top panels 159a, 159b, the locking panels 163a, 163b, and the associated features. The blank 503 can also include the locking openings 132, 140a, 140b, 179 and the locking tabs 167a, 167b, 173.

[0085] As also shown, the handle features of the blank 503 can include the handle openings 130, the handle reinforcement flaps 431a, 431b foldably connected to the respective attachment panels 131a, 131b at respective angled fold lines 433a, 433b and positioned to extend into the respective handle openings 130, the handle reinforcement flap 169b, and the handle notches or handle cutouts 469 formed along the free edges of the locking panels 163a, 163b.

[0086] With additional reference to Figure 7A a schematic view (with panels shown in phantom for clarity), the blank 503 can be formed into the carrier 505 / package 510 in a manner similar to that described above with respect to the formation of the carriers 105, 205, 305, 405 / packages 110, 210, 310, 410 from the blanks 103, 203, 303, 403 described above. For example, the containers CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, CB3 can be at least partially received via the relative folding of one or more portions of the respective attachment panels 131a, 131b through the openings formed in the respective attachment panels 131a, 131b as described above. As described above, the side panels 155a, 155b can also be positioned generally obliquely relative to the respective portions of the attachment panels 131a, 131b, and the top panels 159a, 159b can be positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the respective portions of the attachment panels 131a, 131b as described above.

[0087] Locking tabs 167, 167b can be detached from top panels 159a, 159b at respective lines of weakness 160a, 160b and stowed beneath attachment panels 131a through respective openings 140a, 140b as described above.

[0088] When top panels 159a, 159b are positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with respective portions of respective attachment panels 131a, 131b as described above, locking panel 163a can be positioned to overlap locking panel 163b. In this regard, locking tabs 173 aligned above locking openings 179, 132 can be folded downward at respective fold lines 175 to be inserted through and received in respective locking openings 179 and further through locking openings 132 beneath them. In this arrangement, one or more flared or flanged portions of respective locking tabs 173 can engage the underside of one or both of respective attachment panels 131a, 131b to maintain secure engagement of locking tabs 173 through locking openings 132.

[0089] Accordingly, the above-described arrangement of panels of the carrier can thus align various handle features, such as handle openings 469, handle reinforcing flaps 169b, and handle openings 132 / handle reinforcing flaps 431a, 431b, such that a user can at least partially insert one or more of his or her fingers downward through respective handle openings 469, against reinforcing flaps 169b to at least partially detach them from respective locking panels 163b, and fold downward at least partially through respective handle openings 130 at respective fold lines 171a. This movement of handle reinforcing flaps 169b can cause one or more of handle reinforcing flaps 431a, 431b to at least partially fold downward at respective fold lines 433a, 433b to allow the user to grasp portions of carrier 505 along attachment panels 131a, 131b exposed beneath handle openings 130. To the comfort of the user, reinforcing flaps 169a, 169b, 433a, 433b can provide additional layers of material between the user’s fingers and the carrier, for example as a cushion, for example to resist deformation / tearing of one or more portions of carrier 505, to avoid pinching the user’s fingers, etc.

[0090] The foregoing construction of carrier 505 / package 510 can provide secure and robust engagement of various panels and portions thereof to support one or more containers, with advantages similar to those described above for carriers 105, 205, 305, 405 / packages 110, 210, 310, 410. In some embodiments, this construction of carrier 505 / package 510 can be provided in order to avoid or minimize the use of polymeric materials such as adhesives (e.g., glue).

[0091] Figure 8 is a plan view of an outer surface 601 of a blank 603 for forming a carrier 605 Figure 8A ) and a package 610 Figure 8A ) according to a sixth example embodiment of the present disclosure. The blank 603 and the carrier 605 / package 610 formed from the blank 603 can have one or more features that are the same as or similar to those described above with respect to the blanks 103, 203, 303, 403, 503 and the carriers 105, 205, 305, 405, 505 / packages 110, 210, 310, 410, 510 described above, and like or similar features are identified with like or similar reference numerals. Thus, the blank 603 can include a front portion 607 for forming a front portion 606 of the carrier 605 / package 610 and a back portion 609 for forming a back portion 608 of the carrier 605 / package 610.

[0092] The blank 603 can have a longitudinal axis LI and a transverse axis L2, the attachment panels 131a, 131b, the side panels 155a, 155b, the top panels 159a, 159b, the locking panel 163a, and associated features.

[0093] The blank 603 can also include a locking tab 167 (broadly, a “male locking feature” or a “first male locking feature”) that interrupts the fold line 161a, a locking tab 173, a locking opening 140b positioned in the attachment panel 131b, and a locking opening 185 positioned to interrupt the fold line 161b. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking tab 167 can have a generally obliquely tapering configuration, such as a wedge-shaped or triangular configuration, and the locking opening 185 can have a generally curved configuration, although one or both of the locking tab 167 and the locking opening 185 can have different configurations without departing from the present disclosure.

[0094] As also shown, the handle feature of the blank 603 can include a pair of handle reinforcing flaps 631a, 631b that intersect at and are detachably connected at a longitudinal cutout 633 that interrupts the fold line 112. Each handle reinforcing flap 631a, 631b can be at least partially defined by a respective pair of curved cutouts 635a, 635b that intersect the cutout 633. The handle reinforcing flap 637 can also be at least partially defined by a generally curved cutout 639 in the top panel 159a.

[0095] Further reference is made to Figure 8AFIG. 6B illustrates a schematic view of the package 610 formed from the blank 603, in which the panels that extend below are illustrated in phantom for clarity. As described above, the container CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, CB3 can be at least partially received via the relative folding of one or more portions of the respective attachment panels 131a, 131b as described above through the openings formed in the respective attachment panels 131a, 131b. As described above, the side panels 155a, 155b can also be positioned generally oblique with respect to the respective portions of the attachment panels 131a, 131b, and the top panels 159a, 159b can be positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the respective portions of the attachment panels 131a, 131b as described above.

[0096] The locking tab 167 can be separated from the top panel 159a at the line of weakness 160 and stowed below the attachment panel 131b by being at least partially received through the opening 140b as described above. Further, the locking panel 163a can be positioned overlapping the top panel 159b such that the locking tab 173 can be at least partially inserted through the locking opening 185. In this arrangement, one or more flared or flanged portions of the locking tab 173 can engage portions of the side panel 155b and / or the top panel 159b adjacent the locking opening 185.

[0097] The above-described arrangement of panels of the carrier can thus align various handle features, such as the handle reinforcement flaps 637, 631a, 631b, such that a user can at least partially insert one or more fingers of his or her hand downward through the handle reinforcement flap 637 such that the handle reinforcement flap 637 is at least partially separated from the top panel 159a at the cutout 639 to cause the handle reinforcement flaps 631a, 631b aligned therebelow to further move to at least partially separate at the cutout 633 and at the respective cutouts 635a, 635b from the respective attachment panels 131a, 131b to further move downward to allow the user to grip the carrier 605 along the portions of the attachment panels 131a, 131b exposed by such movement of the handle reinforcement flaps 631a, 631b. To the comfort of the user, the handle reinforcement flaps 637, 631a, 631b can provide additional layers of material between the user's fingers and the carrier, for example as a cushion to resist deformation / tearing of one or more portions of the carrier 605, for example, to avoid pinching the user's fingers, etc.

[0098] The foregoing construction of the carrier 605 / package 610 can provide strong and secure joints of various panels and portions thereof to support one or more containers, with advantages similar to those described above with respect to the carriers 105, 205, 305, 405, 505 / packages 110, 210, 310, 410, 510. In some embodiments, such a construction of the carrier 605 / package 610 can be provided in order to avoid or minimize the use of polymeric materials such as adhesives (e.g., glue).

[0099] It will be appreciated that the blanks and carriers / packages described herein can be provided in different configurations without departing from the present disclosure.

[0100] In general, the blank can be constructed of paperboard having a thickness such that it is heavier and more rigid than ordinary paper. The blank can also be constructed of other materials such as paperboard or any other material having properties suitable to enable the carrier to function at least generally as described above. The blank can be coated with, for example, a clay coating. The clay coating can then be printed with product, advertising, and other information or images. The blank can then be coated with a varnish to protect the information printed on the blank. The blank can also be coated with, for example, a moisture barrier on either or both sides of the blank. The blank can also be laminated or coated with one or more sheet materials at selected panels or panel segments.

[0101] As an example, a tear line can comprise: a slit that extends partially into the material along the desired line of weakness; and / or a series of spaced-apart slits that extend partially into the material and / or fully through the material along the desired line of weakness; or various combinations of these features. As a more specific example, one type of tear line is in the form of a series of spaced-apart slits that fully extend through the material, with adjacent slits spaced slightly apart such that a nick (e.g., a small segment of slightly bridging material) is defined between adjacent slits to typically temporarily connect the material across the tear line. During tearing along the tear line, the nick breaks. The nick is typically a relatively small percentage of the tear line, and alternatively the nick can be omitted from the tear line or torn in the tear line such that the tear line is a continuous cut line. That is, replacing each tear line in the tear line with a continuous slit or the like is also within the scope of the present disclosure. For example, the cut line can be a continuous slit or can be wider than a slit without departing from the present disclosure.

[0102] According to exemplary embodiments, a fold line can be any substantially linear (but not necessarily straight) form of weakening that facilitates folding along it. More particularly, but not for the purpose of narrowing the scope of the present disclosure, a fold line includes: a score line, such as a line formed with a blunt scoring knife, that creates a crushed or concave portion in the material along the desired line of weakening; a cut that extends partially into the material along the desired line of weakening; and / or a series of cuts that extend partially into the material and / or completely through the material along the desired line of weakening; and various combinations of these features. In cases where a cut is used to create a fold line, typically the cut will not be overly extensive in a manner that can cause a reasonable user to mistakenly view the fold line as a tear line.

[0103] The above embodiments can be described as adhering one or more panels together with glue during construction of the carrier embodiments. The term "glue" is intended to encompass all manners of adhesive commonly used to secure carrier panels in place.

[0104] The foregoing description of the present disclosure illustrates and describes various exemplary embodiments. This description is intended to be illustrative, and not restrictive, of the disclosure. Other embodiments, as well as modifications and variations, can be possible in light of the above teachings or can be acquired from practice of the disclosure. Additionally, each of the individual embodiments described and illustrated herein has multiple optional features and can be described and illustrated in multiple variant embodiments. Furthermore, each of the features and aspects of the embodiments can be selectively interchanged and applied to other illustrated and unillustrated embodiments of the disclosure.

Claims

1. A carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the carrier comprising: a plurality of panels including at least one attachment panel, at least one side panel, and at least one top panel, the attachment panel configured to receive a portion of one or more of the plurality of containers, the at least one attachment panel including a container holding portion and at least one edge portion foldably connected to the container holding portion; and a locking feature for maintaining an upright configuration of the carrier, the locking feature including at least one male locking feature extending from a respective one of the plurality of panels and at least partially received in a respective at least one female locking feature at least partially defined in a respective one of the plurality of panels, the at least one female locking feature at least partially defined in the container holding portion of the at least one attachment panel.

2. The carrier of claim 1, wherein the at least one male locking feature is a locking tab and the at least one female locking feature is a locking opening.

3. The carrier of claim 2, wherein the at least one attachment panel is a front attachment panel, the at least one side panel is a front side panel, the at least one top panel is a front top panel, and the plurality of panels further includes a rear attachment panel, a rear side panel, and a rear top panel configured to receive a portion of one or more of the plurality of containers.

4. The carrier of claim 3, wherein the at least one male locking feature is a first male locking feature extending from the front top panel, the at least one female locking feature is a first female locking feature at least partially defined in the front attachment panel, the locking feature further including a second male locking feature extending from front top panel and a second female locking feature at least partially defined between the front attachment panel and the rear attachment panel and at least partially receiving the second male locking feature.

5. The carrier of claim 4, wherein the locking feature further includes a third male locking feature extending from the rear top panel and at least partially received in a third female locking feature at least partially defined in the rear attachment panel.

6. The carrier of claim 5, wherein the locking feature further includes a fourth male locking feature extending from the rear top panel and at least partially received in the second female locking feature.

7. The carrier of claim 5, wherein the locking feature further includes a fourth female locking feature at least partially defined in the rear top panel at least partially receiving the second male locking feature.

8. The carrier of claim 7, wherein the fourth female locking feature is aligned with the second female locking feature such that each of the fourth female locking feature and the second female locking feature at least partially receives the second male locking feature therethrough.

9. The vehicle of claim 3, wherein the plurality of panels further comprises a front locking panel and a rear locking panel, wherein the at least one male locking feature is a first male locking feature extending from the front locking panel, and the at least one female locking feature is a first female locking feature at least partially defined in the front attachment panel and at least partially receiving the first male locking feature.

10. The vehicle of claim 9, wherein the locking features further comprise a second male locking feature extending from the front locking panel and a second female locking feature at least partially defined between the front attachment panel and the rear attachment panel and at least partially receiving the second male locking feature.

11. The vehicle of claim 10, wherein the front locking panel is in at least partial face-to-face contact with the rear locking panel, the locking features comprising a third female locking feature at least partially defined in the rear locking panel, the third female locking feature aligned with the second female locking feature such that each of the third female locking feature and the second female locking feature at least partially receives the second male locking feature therethrough.

12. The vehicle of claim 11, wherein the third female locking feature is aligned with the first female locking feature such that each of the third female locking feature and the first female locking feature at least partially receives the first male locking feature.

13. The vehicle of claim 11, wherein the locking features further comprise a third male locking feature extending from the front top panel and a fourth female locking feature at least partially defined in the front attachment panel and at least partially receiving the third male locking feature.

14. The vehicle of claim 13, wherein the locking features further comprise a fifth female locking feature at least partially defined in the rear locking panel, the fifth female locking feature aligned with the first female locking feature such that each of the fifth female locking feature and the first female locking feature at least partially receives the third male locking feature therethrough.

15. The vehicle of claim 14, wherein the locking features further comprise a fourth male locking feature extending from the front attachment panel and in at least partial face-to-face contact with a portion of the rear locking panel.

16. The vehicle of claim 15, wherein the locking features further comprise a fifth male locking feature extending from the rear locking panel and at least partially received in a sixth female locking feature at least partially defined in the rear attachment panel.

17. The vehicle of claim 3, wherein the plurality of panels further comprises a front locking panel, wherein the at least one male locking feature is a first male locking feature extending from the front locking panel, and the at least one female locking feature is a first female locking feature at least partially defined in the rear attachment panel and at least partially receiving the first male locking feature.

18. The carrier of claim 17, wherein the locking feature further comprises a second male locking feature extending from the front locking panel and a second female locking feature at least partially defined in the rear top panel, the second female locking feature at least partially receiving the second male locking feature, the front locking panel and the rear top panel positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact.

19. A blank for forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the blank comprising: a plurality of panels including at least one attachment panel, at least one side panel, and at least one top panel, the attachment panel configured to receive a portion of one or more of the plurality of containers, the at least one attachment panel including a container holding portion and at least one edge portion foldably connected to the container holding portion; and a locking feature for maintaining an erected configuration of the carrier formed from the blank, the locking feature including at least one male locking feature extending from a respective one of the plurality of panels to be at least partially received in a respective at least one female locking feature at least partially defined in a respective one of the plurality of panels when the carrier is formed from the blank, the at least one female locking feature at least partially defined in the container holding portion of the at least one attachment panel.

20. The blank of claim 19, wherein the at least one male locking feature is a locking tab and the at least one female locking feature is a locking opening.

21. The blank of claim 19, wherein the at least one attachment panel is a front attachment panel, the at least one side panel is a front side panel, the at least one top panel is a front top panel, and the plurality of panels further comprises a rear attachment panel, a rear side panel, and a rear top panel configured to receive a portion of one or more of the plurality of containers.

22. The blank of claim 21, wherein the at least one male locking feature is a first male locking feature extending from the front top panel, the at least one female locking feature is a first female locking feature at least partially defined in the front attachment panel, the locking feature further comprising a second male locking feature extending from the front top panel and a second female locking feature at least partially defined between the front attachment panel and the rear attachment panel to at least partially receive the second male locking feature when the carrier is formed from the blank.

23. The blank of claim 22, wherein the locking feature further comprises a third male locking feature extending from the rear top panel to be at least partially received in a third female locking feature at least partially defined in the rear attachment panel when the carrier is formed from the blank.

24. The blank of claim 23, wherein the locking features further comprise a fourth male locking feature extending from the back top panel and configured to be at least partially received in the second female locking feature when the carrier is formed from the blank.

25. The blank of claim 23, wherein the locking features further comprise a fourth female locking feature at least partially defined in the back top panel and configured to at least partially receive the second male locking feature when the carrier is formed from the blank.

26. The blank of claim 25, wherein the fourth female locking feature is configured to align with the second female locking feature such that each of the fourth female locking feature and the second female locking feature are configured to at least partially receive the second male locking feature therethrough when the carrier is formed from the blank.

27. The blank of claim 21, wherein the plurality of panels further comprise a front locking panel and a back locking panel, wherein the at least one male locking feature is a first male locking feature extending from the front locking panel and the at least one female locking feature is a first female locking feature at least partially defined in the front attachment panel and configured to at least partially receive the first male locking feature when the carrier is formed from the blank.

28. The blank of claim 27, wherein the locking features further comprise a second male locking feature extending from the front locking panel and a second female locking feature at least partially defined between the front attachment panel and the back attachment panel and configured to at least partially receive the second male locking feature when the carrier is formed from the blank.

29. The blank of claim 28, wherein the locking features comprise a third female locking feature at least partially defined in the back locking panel and configured to align with the second female locking feature such that each of the third female locking feature and the second female locking feature are configured to at least partially receive the second male locking feature therethrough when the carrier is formed from the blank.

30. The blank of claim 29, wherein the third female locking feature is configured to align with the first female locking feature such that each of the third female locking feature and the first female locking feature are configured to at least partially receive the first male locking feature when the carrier is formed from the blank.

31. The blank of claim 29, wherein the locking features further comprise a third male locking feature extending from the front top panel and a fourth female locking feature at least partially defined in the front attachment panel and configured to at least partially receive the third male locking feature when the carrier is formed from the blank.

32. The blank of claim 31, wherein the locking features further comprise a fifth female locking feature at least partially defined in the rear locking panel, the fifth female locking feature for alignment with the first female locking feature such that each of the fifth female locking feature and the first female locking feature are for at least partially receiving the third male locking feature therethrough when the carrier is formed from the blank.

33. The blank of claim 32, wherein the locking features further comprise a fourth male locking feature extending from the front attachment panel and for at least partially facing contact with a portion of the rear top panel when the carrier is formed from the blank.

34. The blank of claim 33, wherein the locking features further comprise a fifth male locking feature extending from the rear locking panel and for at least partially being received in a sixth female locking feature at least partially defined in the rear attachment panel when the carrier is formed from the blank.

35. The blank of claim 21, wherein the plurality of panels further comprise a front locking panel, wherein the at least one male locking feature is a first male locking feature extending from the front locking panel and the at least one female locking feature is a first female locking feature at least partially defined in the rear attachment panel and for at least partially receiving the first male locking feature when the carrier is formed from the blank.

36. The blank of claim 35, wherein the locking features further comprise a second male locking feature extending from the front locking panel and a second female locking feature at least partially defined in the rear top panel for at least partially receiving the second male locking feature when the carrier is formed from the blank.

37. A method for forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the method comprising: obtaining a blank and locking features, the blank comprising a plurality of panels, the plurality of panels comprising at least one attachment panel, at least one side panel, and at least one top panel, the at least one attachment panel configured to receive a portion of one or more of the plurality of containers, the at least one attachment panel comprising a container holding portion and at least one edge portion foldably connected to the container holding portion, the locking features comprising at least one male locking feature extending from a respective panel of the plurality of panels and at least one female locking feature at least partially defined in a respective panel of the plurality of panels, the at least one female locking feature at least partially defined in the container holding portion of the at least one attachment panel; positioning the at least one attachment panel for at least partially receiving one or more of the plurality of containers; and at least partially inserting the at least one male locking feature through the at least one female locking feature to maintain an upright configuration of the carrier. ​ 38. The method of claim 37, wherein the at least one male locking feature is a locking tab and the at least one female locking feature is a locking opening.

39. The method of claim 38, wherein the at least one attachment panel is a front attachment panel, the at least one side panel is a front side panel, the at least one top panel is a front top panel, and the plurality of panels further comprises a rear attachment panel, a rear side panel, and a rear top panel configured to receive a portion of one or more of the plurality of containers.

40. The method of claim 39, wherein the at least one male locking feature is a first male locking feature extending from the front top panel, the at least one female locking feature is a first female locking feature at least partially defined in the front attachment panel, the locking features further comprise a second male locking feature extending from front top panel and a second female locking feature at least partially defined between the front attachment panel and the rear attachment panel, and the method further comprises at least partially inserting the second male locking feature into the second female locking feature.

41. The method of claim 40, wherein the locking features further comprise a third male locking feature extending from the rear top panel and a third female locking feature at least partially defined in the rear attachment panel, and the method further comprises at least partially inserting the third male locking feature into the third female locking feature.

42. The method of claim 41, wherein the locking features further comprise a fourth male locking feature extending from the rear top panel, and the method further comprises at least partially inserting the fourth male locking feature into the second female locking feature.

43. The method of claim 41, wherein the locking features further comprise a fourth female locking feature at least partially defined in the rear top panel, and the method further comprises at least partially inserting the second male locking feature into the fourth female locking feature.

44. The method of claim 43, wherein the method further comprises aligning the fourth female locking feature with the second female locking feature such that each of the fourth female locking feature and the second female locking feature at least partially receives the second male locking feature therethrough.

45. The method of claim 39, wherein the plurality of panels further comprise a front locking panel and a rear locking panel, wherein the at least one male locking feature is a first male locking feature extending from the front locking panel, the at least one female locking feature is a first female locking feature at least partially defined in the front attachment panel, and the method further comprises at least partially inserting the first male locking feature into the first female locking feature.

46. The method of claim 45, wherein the locking features further comprise a second male locking feature extending from the front locking panel and a second female locking feature at least partially defined between the front attachment panel and the rear attachment panel, and the method further comprises at least partially inserting the second male locking feature into the second female locking feature.

47. The method of claim 46, further comprising positioning the front locking panel in at least partial face-to-face contact with the rear locking panel, the locking features comprising a third female locking feature at least partially defined in the rear locking panel, and the method further comprises aligning the third female locking feature with the second female locking feature such that each of the third female locking feature and the second female locking feature at least partially receives the second male locking feature therethrough.

48. The method of claim 47, wherein the method further comprises aligning the third female locking feature with the first female locking feature such that each of the third female locking feature and the first female locking feature at least partially receives the first male locking feature.

49. The method of claim 47, wherein the locking features further comprise a third male locking feature extending from the front top panel and a fourth female locking feature at least partially defined in the front attachment panel, and the method further comprises at least partially inserting the third male locking feature into the fourth female locking feature.

50. The method of claim 49, wherein the locking features further comprise a fifth female locking feature at least partially defined in the rear locking panel, and the method further comprises aligning the fifth female locking feature with the first female locking feature such that each of the fifth female locking feature and the first female locking feature at least partially receives the third male locking feature therethrough.

51. The method of claim 50, wherein the locking features further comprise a fourth male locking feature extending from the front attachment panel, and the method further comprises positioning the fourth male locking feature in at least partial face-to-face contact with a portion of the rear locking panel.

52. The method of claim 51, wherein the locking features further comprise a fifth male locking feature extending from the rear locking panel and a sixth female locking feature at least partially defined in the rear attachment panel, and the method further comprises at least partially inserting the fifth male locking feature into the sixth female locking feature.

53. The method of claim 39, wherein the plurality of panels further comprises a front locking panel, wherein the at least one male locking feature is a first male locking feature extending from the front locking panel and the at least one female locking feature is a first female locking feature at least partially defined in the rear attachment panel, and the method further comprises at least partially inserting the first male locking feature into the first female locking feature.

54. The method of claim 53, wherein the locking features further comprise a second male locking feature extending from the front locking panel and a second female locking feature at least partially defined in the rear top panel, the method further comprising positioning the front locking panel and the rear top panel at least partially in face-to-face contact, and the method further comprising at least partially inserting the second male locking feature into the second female locking feature.

55. A package comprising: a plurality of containers; and a carrier for holding a plurality of containers according to claim 1.

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