Article carrier and blank thereof

Abstract

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a collapsible article carrier for packaging a plurality of articles and a blank for forming the carrier. The article carrier includes a handle plate hingedly connected to an end plate via a bridge strip. When the article carrier is in the upright form, the bridge strip extends along the inner surface of the end plate. The bridge strip is connected to the handle plate by an articulated connection including a non-linear slit.

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

[0001] The present invention relates to carriers and blanks for forming carriers. More particularly, but not exclusively, the present invention relates to a carrier having a partition structure feature defining cells or compartments within the interior of a basket-style carrier. BACKGROUND

[0002] In the field of packaging, it is known to provide an article carrier or carton for carrying a plurality of articles. Cartons are well known in the art and can be used to enable a consumer to transport, store and access a group of articles for consumption. For cost and environmental considerations, such cartons or carriers need to be made from as little material as possible and waste as little of the material from which they are formed as possible. It is also a consideration the strength of the carton and its suitability for holding and transporting large weight articles. It is desirable that the contents of the carton are secured within the carton.

[0003] It is an object of the present invention to provide a basket-style carrier having a carrying handle coupled to an end panel by a connecting or reinforcing panel which is in substantially facing contact relationship with the end wall of the basket-style carrier.

[0004] It is desirable that the blank from which the carrier is formed can be easily assembled into the carrier in a simple and efficient manner.

[0005] The present invention seeks to provide an improvement in the field of cartons, typically formed from paperboard or the like. SUMMARY

[0006] A first aspect of the present invention provides an article carrier for packaging one or more articles. The article carrier comprises a handle panel hingedly connected to an end panel by a bridge strip. The bridge strip extends along an inner surface of the end panel. The bridge strip is connected to the handle panel by a hinged connection comprising a non-linear slit.

[0007] Optionally, the non-linear slit comprises a "C" shaped slit.

[0008] Optionally, the hinged connection further comprises a fold line interrupted by the non-linear slit.

[0009] Optionally, the non-linear slit comprises a lateral component extending in a transverse direction relative to an adjacent free edge of the handle panel.

[0010] Optionally, the non-linear slit further comprises a longitudinal component extending in a direction parallel to the free edge of the handle panel.

[0011] Optionally, the longitudinal component is offset from the free edge of the handle panel.

[0012] Optionally, the longitudinal component is longitudinally aligned with the free edge of the handle panel.

[0013] Optionally, the "C" shaped slit defines a tab extending from the bridge strip towards the end panel.

[0014] Optionally, the handle panel is hingedly connected to a second handle panel, the second handle panel being hingedly connected to the fixed panel along a second hinged connection, wherein the second hinged connection comprises an opening for receiving the tab when the article carrier is in the upright form.

[0015] Optionally, the opening is defined by a second "C" shaped slit.

[0016] Optionally, the opening is defined by an aperture.

[0017] Optionally, the article carrier comprises a plurality of main panels providing walls of the tubular structure and defining an interior of the article carrier, the walls comprising first and second opposing side walls and first and second opposing end walls, and wherein the handle panel extends between the first and second opposing end walls.

[0018] Optionally, the article carrier comprises first and second base panels closing one end of the tubular structure.

[0019] A second aspect of the present invention provides an article carrier for packaging one or more articles. The article carrier comprises a handle panel hingedly connected to an end panel via a bridge strip. The bridge strip extends along an inner surface of the end panel. The bridge strip is connected to the handle panel by a hinged connection which extends in substantially the same direction as an adjacent free edge of the handle panel. A recess is formed along the free edge such that the recess is disposed immediately adjacent to and contiguous with the bridge strip.

[0020] Optionally, the hinged connection comprises a non-linear slit.

[0021] Optionally, the non-linear slit comprises a longitudinal component which is generally aligned with the free end edge of the handle panel.

[0022] Optionally, the non-linear slit further comprises a lateral component which extends in a transverse direction relative to the free end edge of the handle panel.

[0023] Optionally, the longitudinal component of the non-linear slit is offset from the base of the recess.

[0024] A third aspect of the present invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a plurality of main panels for forming walls of a tubular structure defining an internal chamber. The plurality of main panels comprises an end panel and a handle panel hingedly connected to the end panel by a bridge strip. The bridge strip extends along an inner surface of the end panel when the article carrier is in an upright form. The bridge strip is connected to the handle panel by a hinged connection comprising a non-linear slit.

[0025] A fourth aspect of the present application provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a plurality of main panels for forming walls of a tubular structure defining an internal chamber. The plurality of main panels comprises an end panel and a handle panel hingedly connected to the end panel via a bridge strip. The bridge strip extends along an inner surface of the end panel when the article carrier is in an erected form. The bridge strip is connected to the handle panel by a hinged connection which extends in substantially the same direction as an adjacent free edge of the handle panel. A recess is formed along the free edge such that the recess is disposed immediately adjacent to the bridge strip to abut therewith.

[0026] Further features and advantages of the present application will become apparent from the specific embodiments illustrated in the drawings and discussed below.

[0027] Within the scope of this application it is envisaged or intended that individual aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and / or in the following description and drawings can be considered or adopted independently or in any combination thereof.

[0028] Features or elements described in connection with or in relation to one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments unless there is a feature of incompatibility. One or more features or elements from one embodiment can be incorporated into any other embodiment or in conjunction with these embodiments, the features or elements extracted from the one embodiment can be included in addition to or in place of one or more features or elements of the other embodiments.

[0029] One or more features of an embodiment disclosed herein can be extracted independently from other features of that embodiment. Alternatively, one or more features of an embodiment can be omitted from that embodiment. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0030] Embodiments of the present application will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which: Figure 1 is a plan view of a blank for forming a carrier according to a first embodiment; Figure 2 is a plan view of a portion of the blank of Figure 1 ; Figure 3A and 3B illustrate stages in the construction of the blank of Figure 1 into a carrier; Figures 4A to 4C illustrate further stages in the construction of the blank of Figure 1 into a carrier; Figure 5 is a perspective view of a carrier formed from the blank of Figure 1 ; Figure 6 It is by Figure 1 Alternate perspective view of the carrier formed from the blank; Figure 7 This is a top plan view of the blank used to form the carrier according to the second embodiment; Figure 8A is a top plan view of a blank for forming a carrier according to the third embodiment; Figure 8B This is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the blank in Figure 8A; Figure 9 This is an enlarged plan view of the partition structure of the blank in Figure 8A; Figure 10 This is a perspective view of the carrier formed from the blank in Figure 8A; and Figure 11 This is a top plan view of the blank used to form the carrier according to the fourth embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0031] This document discloses detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of packaging, blanks, and cartons. It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of ways in which certain aspects of the invention can be implemented and do not represent an exhaustive list of all ways in which the invention can be specifically implemented. As used herein, the term “exemplary” is broadly used to refer to embodiments used as illustrations, samples, models, or patterns. In practice, it will be understood that the packaging, blanks, and cartons described herein can be implemented in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily drawn to scale, and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show detail of particular parts. Well-known components, materials, or methods are not necessarily described in extreme detail so as not to obscure this disclosure. Any specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting, but merely as the basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to employ the invention in different ways.

[0032] refer to Figure 1 This demonstrates the ability to form such as Figure 5 and 6 The diagram shows a plan view of a blank 10 of a cardboard box or carrier 90 for containing and carrying a set of primary products, such as, but not limited to, bottles, hereinafter referred to as articles. The blank 10 forms a secondary package in the style of a basket carrier for packaging at least one primary product container or package.

[0033] exist Figure 7 The alternative blanks 10', 210, and 310 are illustrated in Figures 8A and 11, respectively.

[0034] In the embodiments detailed herein, the terms "carton" and "carrier" refer to a container 90; 290 for use in joining and carrying articles, such as primary product containers, for the non-limiting purpose of illustrating various features of the present application. It is contemplated that the teachings of the present application can be applied to various product containers, which can or can not be tapered and / or cylindrical in shape. Other exemplary containers include bottles (e.g., metal, glass or plastic bottles), cans (e.g., aluminum cans), tins, pouches, packs, and the like.

[0035] The blanks 10; 10'; 210; 310 are formed from a suitable substrate sheet material. It is to be understood that, as used herein, the term "suitable substrate" includes all forms of foldable sheet material, such as paperboard, corrugated paperboard, hardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, and the like. It will be appreciated that one or other number of blanks can be employed, as appropriate, e.g., to provide a carrier structure described in greater detail below.

[0036] The packaging structures or cartons 90; 290 described herein can be formed from a sheet material such as paperboard, which can be made from or coated with a material that increases its strength. An example of such a sheet material is tear-resistant NATRALOCK® paperboard manufactured by WestRock Company. It should be noted that the tear-resistant material can be provided from more than one layer to help increase the tear resistance of the package. Typically, one surface of the sheet material can have different properties than the other surface. For example, the outwardly facing surface of the sheet material from the finished package can be particularly smooth and can have a coating, such as a clay coating or other surface treatment, to provide good printability. On the other hand, the inwardly facing surface of the sheet material can be provided with a coating, layer, treatment or otherwise prepared to provide properties such as one or more of tear resistance, good gluing properties, heat sealability or other desired functional properties.

[0037] In the illustrated embodiment, the blanks 10; 10'; 210; 310 are configured to form cartons or carriers 90; 290 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles B. In the illustrated embodiment, the arrangement is an m x n matrix or array having two rows (m = 2) and three columns (n = 3); in the illustrated embodiment, two rows of three articles are provided, and the articles are 355 ml bottles, which can be formed from a suitable material such as, but not limited to, glass, aluminum or PET (polyester - polyethylene terephthalate).

[0038] The blanks 10; 10'; 210; 310 can be configured to form carriers for packaging other types, numbers and sizes of articles and / or for packaging articles in different arrangements or configurations, such as, but not limited to, fully enclosed cartons or wraparound carriers, which can be cups, pouches, jugs or cans.

[0039] Turning to Figure 1 , a blank 10 for forming a carton 90 (see Figure 5 and 6 ) in accordance with a first embodiment is illustrated. The blank 10 includes a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 26 arranged in a linear series hingedly connected one after another by fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 25, respectively.

[0040] The blank 10 includes a plurality of outer panels 12, 14, 16, 18 for forming a tubular structure. The plurality of outer panels 12, 14, 16, 18 includes a first end panel 12. A first side panel 14 is hingedly connected to the first end panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 13. A second end panel 16 is hingedly connected to the first side panel 14 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 15. A second side panel 18 is hingedly connected to the second end panel 16 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 17.

[0041] The blank 10 includes a first base panel 36 hingedly connected to the first side panel 14 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 35. The blank 10 includes a second base panel 38 hingedly connected to the second side panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 37. The first and second base panels 36, 38 are also referred to herein as end closure flaps because they close the ends of the tubular structure formed by the plurality of outer panels 12, 14, 16, 18.

[0042] The first and second base panels 36, 38 can be engaged with one another in overlapping relation to form a composite base panel 36 / 38 of the carrier 90. The blank 10 can include complementary locking mechanisms M / F for securing the second base panel 38 to the first base panel 36. The first base panel 36 can include at least one first portion F of the complementary locking mechanisms M / F. The second base panel 38 can include at least one second portion M of the complementary locking mechanisms M / F. In the illustrated embodiment, the first base panel 36 includes a plurality of female tabs F that define openings in the second base panel 38. The second base panel 38 includes a plurality of male tabs M; and the openings in the first base panel 36 are configured to receive a respective one of the male tabs M. Each female tab F is arranged to be moved out of the first base panel 36 to form an opening, and to bear against a male tab M when the male tab M is received therein. In some embodiments, the complementary locking mechanisms M / F can be omitted; and the first and second base panels 36, 38 can be secured to one another by other means, such as but not limited to adhesive or staples.

[0043] The complementary locking mechanisms M / F that are illustrated and described are entirely optional.

[0044] The blank 10 may include an assembly device. The assembly device facilitates securing the blank 10 around a set of articles B. The assembly device may include alignment features. The assembly device takes the form of at least one opening in the first substrate 36 and at least one opening in the second substrate 38. The opening (also referred to herein as a machine-drawn opening) may be defined by an aperture A1, which may be in a generally triangular shape.

[0045] The blank 10 includes a partition for dividing the interior of the tubular structure into two chambers. The partition includes a first partition plate 22 (also referred to as an intermediate transition or intermediate plate). The first partition plate 22 is connected to a second side plate 18 via a first inner end plate 20. The first partition plate 22 is hinged to the first inner end plate 20 along its first side via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 21. The first inner end plate 20 is hinged to the second side plate 18 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 19. The first inner end plate 20 is configured to space the first partition plate 22 from the second side plate 18.

[0046] The fixed fold plate 26 is hingedly connected to the second side of the first partition plate 22 via a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 25. The second side is opposite to the first side.

[0047] The second partition plate 24 (also referred to as an intermediate transition or intermediate plate) is hingedly connected to the end edge of the first partition plate 22 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag 23. In normal use, the end edge forms the lower edge in the mounted carrier 90.

[0048] A portion of the first partition plate 22 forms a first handle plate 28 and includes a handle opening. The handle opening is at least partially defined by a handle orifice A2. The handle opening may be partially defined by a handle fold plate 60 (see...). Figure 2 The handle fold plate 60 is either stamped out of or confined within the first handle plate 28, and is hingedly connected to the first handle plate 28 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 61.

[0049] The first handle plate 28 forms part of a carrying handle for transporting the carrier 90. The carrying handle includes a second handle plate 32. The second handle plate 32 is hingedly connected to the first handle plate 28 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 27. The fold line 27 is collinear with the fold line 21 that hinges the first partition plate 22 to the first inner end plate 20. The second handle plate 32 is disposed adjacent to the first inner end plate 20 and a portion of the second side plate 18, and is separated from them by a cutting line 41. The second handle plate 32 includes a handle opening. The handle opening is at least partially defined by a handle aperture A2. The handle opening may be partially defined by a handle fold plate 60 (see...). Figure 2The handle fold plate 60 is either stamped out of or confined within the second handle plate 32, and is hingedly connected to the second handle plate 32 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 61.

[0050] The second handle plate 32 is connected to the second end plate 16 via a connecting plate 34 (also referred to herein as the second inner end plate or bridging plate). The second handle plate 32 is hingedly connected to the connecting plate 34 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 31. The connecting plate 34 is hingedly connected to the second end plate 16 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 33.

[0051] A portion of the second partition plate 24 forms a handle reinforcement plate 30 and includes a handle opening. The handle opening is at least partially defined by a handle orifice A3.

[0052] Figure 2 The partition plates 22 and 24 are shown in more detail; the first partition plate 22 includes a first partition structure P1 for dividing the first chamber into three units on a first side of the partition. The second partition plate 24 includes a second partition structure P2 for dividing the second chamber into three units on a second opposite side of the partition.

[0053] The first partition structure P1 includes a first partition plate 50 stamped from a first partition plate 22. The first partition plate 50 is hinged to the first partition plate 22 at its first end via a hinge connection in the form of a zigzag line 51. The first partition structure P1 includes a second partition plate 54 stamped from the first partition plate 22. The second partition plate is hinged to the first partition plate 22 at its first end via a hinge connection in the form of a zigzag line 55. The second partition plate 54 is spaced apart from the first partition plate 50. A first fixing plate 52 is hinged to the second end of the first partition plate 50 at its first end and hinged to the second end of the second partition plate 54. The first partition plate 50 is hinged to the first fixing plate 52 via a hinge connection in the form of a zigzag line 53. The second partition plate 54 is hinged to the end portion 52B of the first fixing plate 52 via a hinge connection in the form of a zigzag line 57. The end portion 52B of the first fixing plate 52 is stamped from a material that would originally form the first inner end plate 20. (The last sentence appears to be incomplete and possibly refers to an opening or aperture.) A The cut-off portion separates the end portion 52B of the first fixing plate 52 from the first inner end plate 20.

[0054] The second partition structure P2 includes a third partition plate 70 stamped from the second partition plate 24. The third partition plate 70 is hinged to the second partition plate 24 at its first end via a hinge connection in the form of a zigzag line 71. The first partition structure P1 includes a fourth partition plate 74 stamped from the second partition plate 24. The fourth partition plate 74 is hinged to the second partition plate 24 at its first end via a hinge connection in the form of a zigzag line 75. The fourth partition plate 74 is spaced apart from the third partition plate 70. The second fixing plate 72 is hinged to the second end of the third partition plate 70 at its first end and hinged to the second end of the fourth partition plate 74. The third partition plate 70 is hinged to the second fixing plate 72 via a hinge connection in the form of a zigzag line 73. The fourth partition plate 74 is hinged to the end portion 72B of the second fixing plate 72 via a hinge connection in the form of a zigzag line 77.

[0055] The second glued folded plate 40 is hingedly connected to the second partition plate 24 via a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 39. The fold line 39 is collinear with the fold line 21 that hinges the first partition plate 22 to the first inner end plate 20. The second glued folded plate 40 is partially stamped from the material that would otherwise form part of the first inner end plate 20 and is separated from it by a cutting line.

[0056] The connecting plate 34 is hinged to the second handle plate 32 via a hinged connection formed by a zigzag line 31. The zigzag line 31 is interrupted by a cutting line C1. The cutting line C1 is non-linear and can be "C" or "U" shaped, and at least partially defines the first tab T1. The cutting line C1 extends from the connecting plate 34 into the second handle plate 32, such that the first tab T1 is partially stamped out from the connecting plate 34 and partially stamped out from the second handle plate 32. The end of the cutting line C1 is located in the connecting plate 34; the middle portion of the cutting line C1 is located in the second handle plate 32.

[0057] The blank 10 includes a tab receiving portion, which is partially defined in a first handle plate 28 and partially defined in a fixed folding plate 26. The tab receiving portion includes an opening at least partially defined by a cutting line C2. The cutting line C2 is non-linear and may be "C" or "U" shaped, and at least partially defines a second tab T2. The cutting line C2 extends from the fixed folding plate 26 into the first handle plate 28, such that the second tab T2 is stamped partly by the fixed folding plate 26 and partly by the first handle plate 28. The end of the cutting line C2 is located in the fixed folding plate 26; the middle portion of the cutting line C2 is located in the first handle plate 28.

[0058] The second tab T2 is integral with the fixed folding plate 26, and when the fixed folding plate 26 is folded relative to the first handle plate 28 and the first partition plate 22, an opening is created, through which the first tab T1 can pass during the erection of the carrier 90.

[0059] The cutting line C1 reduces the folding resistance of the fold line 31, thereby defining a short connecting portion on either side between the connecting plate 34 and the second handle plate 32. This allows the connecting plate 34 to deform locally in the area surrounding or adjacent to the cutting line C1. This deformation can result in compression or reduction of the length of the connecting plate 34. The area of ​​the connecting plate 34 provided by the first tab T1 can pass through openings in the separator plates 22, 24 and / or handle plates 28, 32. This arrangement allows or facilitates face contact between the connecting plate 34 and the second end plate 16 and / or the fixed fold plate 26 in the installed state, and reduces the possibility of the connecting plate 34 warping or separating from the second end plate 16 and / or the fixed fold plate 26. This can have the effect of allowing for improved engagement of the connecting plate 34 with the fixed fold plate 26 and / or the second end plate 16.

[0060] Switch to Figure 3A , 3B The cardboard box 90 shown in 4A to 4C can be formed by a series of sequential folding operations in a linear machine, so that the cardboard box 90 does not need to be rotated or inverted to complete its construction. The folding process is not limited to the process described below and can be modified according to specific manufacturing requirements.

[0061] Adhesive G or other adhesive treatment is applied to the first handle plate 28 and the first partition plate 22. Alternatively, adhesive or other adhesive treatment may be applied to corresponding areas of the second handle plate 28 and the handle reinforcement plate 30.

[0062] like Figure 3B As shown, the second intermediate plate 24 and the handle reinforcement plate 30 are folded around the fold line 23 relative to the first intermediate plate 22. The second intermediate plate 24 and the first intermediate plate 22 are in surface contact, and the handle reinforcement plate 30 and the first handle plate 28 are in surface contact. The second intermediate plate 24 is fixed to the first intermediate plate 22, and the handle reinforcement plate 30 is fixed to the first handle plate 28.

[0063] Adhesive G or other adhesive treatment is applied to the second handle plate 32 or alternatively to the handle reinforcing plate 30. Adhesive G or other adhesive treatment is applied to the connecting plate 34 or alternatively to the first fixing fold plate 26. Adhesive G or other adhesive treatment is applied to the second fixing plate 72 or alternatively to the second side plate 18.

[0064] like Figure 4A As shown, the first intermediate plate 22 and the first handle plate 28, together with the second intermediate plate 24 and the handle reinforcing plate 30, are folded around fold lines 21 and 27.

[0065] The second intermediate plate 24 forms a surface contact with the first inner end plate 20 and the second side plate 18. The handle reinforcing plate 30 forms a surface contact with the second handle plate 28. The first fixed folding plate 26 forms a surface contact with the connecting plate 34 and the second side plate 18.

[0066] The second intermediate plate 24 is fixed to the first inner end plate 20 and together with the second side plate 18. The handle reinforcing plate 30 is fixed to the second handle plate 28. The first fixed folding plate 26 is fixed to the connecting plate 34.

[0067] Adhesive G or other adhesive treatment is applied to the corresponding area of ​​the first fixing plate 26 or alternatively the second end plate 16. Adhesive G or other adhesive treatment is applied to the corresponding area of ​​the first fixing plate 52 or alternatively the first side plate 14.

[0068] like Figure 4B As shown, the second side plate 18 is folded around the fold line 17 relative to the second end plate 16. In this way, the middle plates 22, 24 and the handle plates 28, 30, 32 are also folded around the fold line 17.

[0069] The first intermediate plate 22 forms a surface contact relationship with the first side plate 14 and the second end plate 16. The first fixed folding plate 26 forms a surface contact relationship with the second end plate 16.

[0070] The first fixing plate 52 is fixed to the first side plate 14. The first fixing folding plate 26 is fixed to the second end plate 16.

[0071] Adhesive G or other adhesive treatment is applied to the first inner end plate 20 and the second fixing fold 40, or alternatively to the corresponding area of ​​the first end plate 12.

[0072] like Figure 4C As shown, the first end plate 12 is folded around the fold line 13 relative to the first side plate 14 to form a flattened carrier.

[0073] The first end plate 12 forms a surface contact relationship with the first inner end plate 20 and the second fixed folding plate 40.

[0074] The first end plate 12 is fixed to the first inner end plate 20 and the second fixed folding plate 40.

[0075] exist Figure 4C The image shows a flattened folding carrier that can be easily shipped or distributed to the plant in a flattened state for use in erecting and loading primary product containers.

[0076] like Figure 5 and 6As shown, by separating the first and second side plates 14, 18 to form a tubular structure defined by the outer plates 12, 14, 16, 18, the flattened folding carrier can be opened into a basket-style item carrier 90. The outer plates 12, 14, 16, 18 define an interior divided into two chambers, one on each side of the partition. When the flattened folding carrier is opened or erected into a tubular form, the partition structures P1, P2 automatically erect, dividing each chamber into multiple units.

[0077] Once the flattened, folded carrier is erected into a tubular structure, the first substrate 36 is folded relative to the first side plate 14 around fold line 35 to partially close one end of the tubular structure. Then, the second substrate 38 is folded relative to the second side plate 18 around fold line 37 to close one end of the tubular structure. The first substrate 36 and the second substrate 38 form a composite substrate 36 / 38 on which an article (not shown) can be mounted.

[0078] The carrier 90 can hold a set of items; Figure 5 and 6 In the embodiment shown, six items (not shown) are arranged in a 3×2 array.

[0079] The items can be loaded through the upper end of the tubular structure formed by the outer plates 12, 14, 16, and 18.

[0080] Figure 5 The carrier 90 is shown, and the first side of the separator is illustrated. The second tab T2 has been folded out of the plane of the first handle plate 28 and is positioned in surface contact or very close to the second end plate 16; this forms the opening O. T A portion of the first tab T1 can pass through the opening O. T . Figure 6 The carrier 90 is shown, and the second side of the separator is illustrated; the connecting plate 34 undergoes local deformation in the areas above and below the first folding plate T1.

[0081] Now for reference Figure 7 Additional embodiments of this disclosure are shown. The second embodiment shown is substantially similar to... Figure 1 and 2 In the illustrated embodiment, different features are given the suffix "'". The blank 10' includes a first handle plate 28' and a first intermediate plate 22'. A first fixed folding plate 26' is hinged to the first handle plate 28' and the first intermediate plate 22' via a fold line 25. The fold line 25 is formed by an opening A. T The cut-off portion of the form is interrupted. The second protrusion T2 has been exposed by orifice A. T Instead, and form an opening through which the first protrusion T1 can pass.

[0082] Referring now to Figures 8A and 8B, further additional embodiments of this disclosure are shown. Figure 8A illustrates a method for forming a cardboard box or carrier 290 according to a third embodiment (see Figure 8A). Figure 10 The blank 210 comprises a plurality of plates 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, and 228, which are arranged in a linear series hinged one after another by fold lines 213, 215, 217, 219, 221, 223, 225, and 227, respectively. The blank 210 is configured to form a basket carrier 290 with an "arrow" design, that is, in a flat, folded state, the first side plate 218 and the second side plate 224 are vertically aligned. The blank 10 includes plates 220, 220, 216, and 226 forming foldable end walls, that is, the first portion of each end wall can be folded relative to the second portion of the end wall. Figure 1 and Figure 7 The blanks 10, 10' and the blanks described above form a basket carrier 90 with a "parallelogram" design, meaning that the end walls do not fold around themselves and the opposite side plates do not fold flat and vertically align with each other.

[0083] Multiple outer plates 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, and 228 form a tubular structure. The multiple outer plates 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, and 228 include a first end plate 216. A first side plate 218 is hingedly connected to the first end plate 216 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 217. A second end plate 220 is hingedly connected to the first side plate 218 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 217. A third end plate 222 is hingedly connected to the second end plate 220 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 221. A second side plate 224 is hingedly connected to the third end plate 222 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 223, and a fourth end plate 226 is hingedly connected to the second side plate 224 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 225.

[0084] The blank 210 includes a first substrate 238A / 238C, which is hinged to a first side plate 218 via a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 237A. The first substrate 238A / 238C includes a fold line 239 extending across the first substrate 238A / 238C in the longitudinal direction x to define first and second portions 238A and 238C, respectively. The first and second portions 238A and 238C are also referred to herein as the proximal and distal portions, respectively. The blank 210 includes a second substrate 238B, which is hinged to a second side plate 224 via a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 237B. The first and second substrates 238A / 238C and 238B are also referred to herein as end-closing folds because they close one end of a tubular structure formed by a plurality of outer plates 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, and 226.

[0085] The first and second substrates 238A / 238C, 238B can be joined to each other in an overlapping relationship to form the composite base wall 238A / 238C / 238B of the carrier 290.

[0086] Optionally, the first substrate 238A / 238C may include at least one cutout stamped from an end edge. The cutout may engage with a hook or latch provided by at least one of the plurality of plates 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, 228.

[0087] The blank 210 may include an intermediate structure, which includes a first intermediate plate 214 and a second intermediate plate 228. The intermediate plates 214 and 228 are also referred to herein as intermediate transition plates.

[0088] The first intermediate plate 214 is hingedly connected to the first end plate 216 at the first ends of a plurality of outer plates 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 215.

[0089] The second intermediate plate 228 is hingedly connected to the fourth end plate 226 at the second opposite ends of the plurality of outer plates 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 227.

[0090] The first and second intermediate plates 214 and 228 are formed as longitudinally extending partitions (or planar intermediate wall structures) between the end walls of the carrier.

[0091] The first intermediate plate 214 provides a first handle plate portion 214A. The second intermediate plate 228 provides a second handle plate portion 228A. The first and second intermediate plates 214 and 228 together provide a double-layer handle structure, with the second layer reinforcing the first layer.

[0092] The first handle plate portion 214A includes a first handle opening.

[0093] The first handle opening may be at least partially defined by a first handle hole A2 punched out from the upper portion of the first intermediate plate 214.

[0094] The second handle plate portion 228A includes a second handle opening.

[0095] The second handle opening may be at least partially defined by a second handle opening A3, which is either punched out from or defined within the upper portion of the second intermediate plate 228.

[0096] The second handle opening is arranged to be aligned or aligned with the first handle opening in the installed state.

[0097] The blank 210 includes a fixing plate in the form of a centrally separated glued folded plate 212, which is hingedly connected to one end of a first intermediate plate 214 via a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 213 (the end being opposite to the opposite end of the first intermediate plate 214 to which the first end plate 216 is hinged, defined by a fold line 215). The fold line 213 may be interrupted by at least one cutout in the form of an opening A1; in the illustrated embodiment, two openings A1 interrupt the fold line 213 to reduce folding resistance.

[0098] Optionally, the blank 210 includes a handle reinforcement structure, which includes first and second handle reinforcement plates 232, 234.

[0099] The first handle reinforcement plate 232 is disposed adjacent to the second end plate 220 and the first side plate 218. The first handle reinforcement plate 232 is separated from the second end plate 220 by a first cutting line. The first handle reinforcement plate 232 is separated from the first side plate 218 by a second cutting line 251.

[0100] The first handle reinforcement plate 232 is hingedly connected to the second handle reinforcement plate 234 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 233.

[0101] The second handle reinforcement plate 234 is disposed adjacent to the third end plate 222 and the second side plate 224. The second handle reinforcement plate 234 is separated from the third end plate 222 by a third cutting line. The second handle reinforcement plate 234 is separated from the second side plate 224 by a fourth cutting line 253. The second handle reinforcement plate 234 is connected to the second end plate 220 at a first side edge of the second handle reinforcement plate 234 by a connecting portion 244, which is a hinged connection arranged collinearly with fold lines 233 and 221. The connecting portion 244 is sufficient to maintain the connection between the second handle reinforcement plate 234 and the second end plate 220 during the pre-assembly processing of the blank 210 and optionally during at least a portion of the assembly process.

[0102] The handle structure includes a first bridging plate 230, which is disposed adjacent to and separated from a first side plate 218 by a second cutting line 251. A first side edge of the first bridging plate 230 is connected to a side edge of a first handle reinforcement plate 232 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 231. A second side edge of the first bridging plate 230 is connected to a side edge of a first end plate 216 via a hinged connection portion arranged collinear with the zigzag line 217. This connection portion is sufficient to maintain the connection between the first bridging plate 230 and the first end plate 216 during the pre-assembly processing of the blank 210 and optionally during at least a portion of the assembly process.

[0103] The handle structure includes a second bridging plate 236, which is disposed adjacent to and separated from the second side plate 224 by a fourth cutting line 253. The first side edge of the second bridging plate 236 is connected to the side edge of the second handle reinforcement plate 234 by a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 235. The second side edge of the second bridging plate 236 is connected to the side edge of the fourth end plate 226 by a hinged connection portion 246 arranged collinear with the zigzag line 225. The connection portion 246 is sufficient to maintain the connection between the second bridging plate 236 and the fourth end plate 226 during the processing of the blank 210 prior to assembly and optionally during at least a portion of the assembly process.

[0104] The hinged connection 235 between the second bridging plate 236 and the second handle reinforcing plate 234 is interrupted by the cutting line C3, such as Figure 8B As shown in the best example.

[0105] The cutting line C3 is non-linear and can be "C" or "U" shaped, and at least partially defines the first tab T3. The cutting line C3 extends from the second bridging plate 236 into the second handle reinforcement plate 234, such that the first tab T3 is partially stamped out from both the second bridging plate 236 and the second handle reinforcement plate 234. The end of the cutting line C3 is located in the second bridging plate 236; the middle portion of the cutting line C3 is located in the second handle reinforcement plate 234.

[0106] The hinge connection 231 between the first bridging plate 230 and the first handle reinforcement plate 232 is arranged similarly to the hinge connection 235 between the second bridging plate 236 and the second handle reinforcement plate 234, and is interrupted by the cutting line C4 of the second tab T4, which is at least partially defined.

[0107] The first handle reinforcement plate 232 includes a third handle opening. The third handle opening may be defined by an optional first buffer fold plate 240, which is stamped out of the first handle reinforcement plate 232 and hingedly connected thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 241. The first buffer fold plate 240 defines at least a portion of the third handle opening.

[0108] The second handle reinforcement plate 234 includes a fourth handle opening. The fourth handle opening may be defined by an optional second buffer flap 242, which is stamped out of the second handle reinforcement plate 234 and hingedly connected thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag 243. The second buffer flap 242 defines at least a portion of the fourth handle opening.

[0109] The third and fourth handle openings are arranged to align or be aligned with the first and second handle openings in the installed carrier.

[0110] The blank 210 may include partition structures P1, P2, which define or generate a plurality of units disposed on one or both sides of the partition formed by the first and second intermediate plates 214, 228.

[0111] The blank 210 includes a first partition structure P1, such as Figure 9 As best shown. The first partition structure P1 defines or generates a plurality of units disposed between the first side plate 218 and the first intermediate plate 214. The first partition structure P1 is defined in a first partition plate portion 214B provided by the lower portion of the first intermediate plate 214.

[0112] The blank 210 includes a second partition structure P2. The second partition structure P2 defines or creates a plurality of units disposed between the second side plate 224 and the second intermediate plate 228. The second partition structure P2 is defined in a second partition plate portion 28B provided by the lower portion of the second intermediate plate 228.

[0113] The first side plate 218 and the second intermediate plate 214, together with the first and second end plates 216 and 220, define a tubular structure or a first compartment on the first side of the intermediate structure or partition.

[0114] The second side plate 224, the second intermediate plate 228, together with the third and fourth end plates 222, 226 and a portion of the first intermediate plate 214, define a tubular structure or a second compartment on the second side of the intermediate structure or partition.

[0115] The first compartment provides an interior for receiving at least the lower portion of one or more items. The second compartment provides an interior for receiving at least the lower portion of one or more items.

[0116] The first and second partition structures P1 and P2 are structurally similar, although the second partition structure P2 is a mirror image of the first partition structure P1 (in the blank form). Thus, when the blank 210 is folded into a flat, folded shape, the first and second partition structures P1 and P2 are substantially aligned with each other. Figure 9 As shown, the first and second partition structures P1 and P2 will be described in more detail with reference to the first partition structure P1.

[0117] The first partition structure P1 includes a first partition plate 264, which is either stamped out of or contained within the first intermediate plate 214, and is hingedly connected to the first intermediate plate 214 at a first end or near end by a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag 263.

[0118] The first partition structure P1 includes a second partition plate 268, which is either stamped out of or contained within the first intermediate plate 214, and is hinged to the first intermediate plate 214 at a first end or near end by a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag 269.

[0119] The first and second partition plates 264 and 268 are sized to extend laterally between the first intermediate plate 214 and the first side plate 218 in the installed state.

[0120] The first partition structure P1 includes a first plywood 272, and each of the first partition plates 264 is connected to the first plywood 272 via a distal connector. The first partition structure P1 also includes a second plywood 266, and each of the second partition plates 268 is connected to the second plywood 266 via a distal connector.

[0121] The first partition 264 is defined by a cutting line 273. The first partition 264 is hingedly connected at its distal end to the first plywood 272 by a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 267. The zigzag line 267 defines the outer end of the first partition 264, and the zigzag line 263 defines the inner end of the first partition 264, defining a linear dimension between them.

[0122] The second partition 268 is defined by a cut line 271. The second partition 268 is hingedly connected to the second plywood 266 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 277. The second partition 268 includes an outer end defined by a portion of the cut line 271, which may be collinear, coincident, or co-linear with the zigzag line 215 between the first intermediate plate 214 and the first end plate 216. The zigzag line 277 is offset from or inserted into the outer end of the second partition 268. A zigzag line 269 defines the inner end of the second partition 268. The outer end of the second partition 268 and the zigzag line 269 define a linear dimension between them.

[0123] The first partition 264 is separated from the first plywood 272 along or through a cutting line or dividing line 265; the dividing line 265 may be substantially "U"-shaped or "C"-shaped. The first plywood 272 may be considered to be stamped out of the first partition 264 or at least partially defined in the first partition 264.

[0124] The second partition 268 is separated from the second plywood 266 by a cutting line or dividing line 279; the dividing line 265 may be substantially "U"-shaped or "C"-shaped. The second plywood 266 may be considered to be stamped out of the second partition 268 or at least partially defined in the second partition 268.

[0125] The second plywood 266 is connected to the second partition 268 via a connecting portion 270 (also referred to herein as a joining plate 270). The connecting portion 270 is hinged to the second plywood 266 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag 277.

[0126] The connecting portion 270 is hinged to the second partition plate 268 via at least one hinged connection. In the illustrated embodiment, the connecting portion 270 is hinged to the second partition plate 268 via a pair of fold lines 275A, 275B. The first fold line 275A of the pair of fold lines 275A, 275B may be arranged divergently relative to the second fold line 275B of the pair of fold lines 275A, 275B.

[0127] Each end of the cutting line 279 may extend beyond the corresponding one of the pair of broken lines 275A, 275B into the connecting portion 270, and may terminate with a "J" shaped cut.

[0128] The first partition structure P1 includes a second generally "U"-shaped cut line 261 that defines a tab or protrusion 262 of the first intermediate plate 214, which is either punched out of or defined within the first partition plate 264. The cut line 261 interrupts a fold line 263 that hinges the first partition plate 264 to the first intermediate plate 214.

[0129] Each end of the cutting line 261 may extend beyond the fold line 263 into the first intermediate plate 214 to define the cutting line extensions 261A and 261B, and may terminate with a "J" shaped cut.

[0130] Each end of the cutting line 271 may extend beyond the fold line 269 into the first intermediate plate 214 to define the cutting line extensions 271A and 271B, and may terminate with a "J" shaped cut.

[0131] Each end of the cutting line 273 may extend beyond the fold line 263 into the first intermediate plate 214 to define the cutting line extensions 273A and 273B, and may terminate with a "J" shaped cut.

[0132] The fold lines 275A and 275B at least partially define the end portions or regions of the second partition plate 268, and more specifically, the end portions or regions of the connecting portion 270. The end portions may be defined between the portions of the fold lines 275A and 275B and the cutting line 271 that extend along the same line as the fold line 215.

[0133] The connecting portion 270 can rotate out of the plane of the second partition plate 268. In this way, a hinge is created between the second plywood 266 and the second partition plate 268.

[0134] Due to the inherent elasticity of the substrate, the hinge can be elastically biased.

[0135] The hinge can provide resistance to prevent the connecting portion 270 from tearing or splitting from the second partition 268. For example, when a load causes the sidewalls 218, 224 to move in an outward direction, or allows the connecting plate 270 to move toward an arrangement coplanar with the rest of the plywood 266.

[0136] Switch to Figure 10 The cardboard box 290 shown can be formed by a series of sequential folding operations in a linear machine, so that the cardboard box 290 does not need to be rotated or inverted to complete its construction. The folding process is not limited to the process described below and can be modified according to specific manufacturing requirements.

[0137] Adhesive or other adhesive treatment is applied to the first and second plywood 272, 266 of the second partition structure P2 provided by the second intermediate plate 228. Optionally, adhesive or other adhesive treatment may be applied to corresponding areas of the second side plate 224.

[0138] Adhesive or other adhesive treatment is applied to the second handle plate portion 228A. Alternatively, adhesive or other adhesive treatment may be applied to the corresponding area of ​​the second handle reinforcement plate 234.

[0139] The second intermediate plate 228 and the fourth end plate 226 are folded around the fold line 225 relative to the second side plate 224. The second intermediate plate 228 forms a surface contact with the second side plate 224 and a portion of the third end plate 222, and the fourth end plate 226 forms a surface contact with a portion of the second side plate 224.

[0140] The second handle plate 228A and the second handle reinforcing plate 234 form a surface contact relationship.

[0141] The first and second plywoods 272 and 266 of the second partition structure P2 are fixed to the second side plate 224 in a relationship of contact with the surface of the second side plate 224.

[0142] The second handle plate 228A is fixed to the second handle reinforcing plate 234.

[0143] Adhesive or other adhesive treatment is applied to the first and second plywood 272, 266 of the first partition structure P1 provided by the first intermediate plate 214. Alternatively, adhesive or other adhesive treatment may be applied to the corresponding areas of the first side plate 218.

[0144] Adhesive or other adhesive treatment is applied to the glued folded plate 212. Alternatively, adhesive or other adhesive treatment may be applied to the corresponding area of ​​the third end plate 222.

[0145] Adhesive or other adhesive treatment is applied to the first handle plate portion 214A. Optionally, adhesive or other adhesive treatment may be applied to the corresponding area of ​​the first handle reinforcement plate 232.

[0146] The first intermediate plate 214, the glued folded plate 212, and the first end plate 216 are folded around the fold line 217 relative to the first side plate 218. The first intermediate plate 214 forms surface contact with the first side plate 218 and a portion of the second end plate 220. The first end plate 216 forms surface contact with a portion of the first side plate 218. The glued folded plate 212 forms surface contact with a portion of the third end plate 222.

[0147] The first handle plate portion 214A and the first handle reinforcing plate 232 form a surface contact relationship.

[0148] The first handle plate portion 214A is fixed to the first handle reinforcing plate 232.

[0149] The first and second plywoods 272 and 266 of the first partition structure P1 are fixed to the first side plate 218 in a relationship of contact with the surface of the first side plate 218.

[0150] The glued folding plate 212 is fixed to the third end plate 222 in a surface contact relationship with the third end plate 222.

[0151] The first substrate 238A / 238C is folded around fold line 239. The second portion 238C of the first substrate 238A / 238C is folded relative to the first portion 238A of the first substrate 238A / 238C. The second portion 238C of the first substrate 238A / 238C and the first portion 238A of the first substrate 238A / 238C are in surface contact.

[0152] Adhesive or other adhesive treatment is applied to a second portion 238C of the first substrate 238A / 238C. Alternatively, adhesive or other adhesive treatment may be applied to a corresponding area of ​​the second substrate 238B.

[0153] Adhesive or other adhesive treatment is applied to the first intermediate board 214. Alternatively, adhesive or other adhesive treatment may be applied to the corresponding area of ​​the second intermediate board 228.

[0154] The blank 210 is folded around the fold line 221 so that the first intermediate plate 214 and the second intermediate plate 228 form a surface contact relationship.

[0155] The second substrate 238B forms a surface contact relationship with the second portion 238C of the first substrate 238A / 238C.

[0156] The first intermediate plate 214 is fixed to the second intermediate plate 228.

[0157] The second substrate 238B is fixed to the second portion 238C of the first substrate 238A / 238C. In this way, a flattened, folded tubular structure is formed.

[0158] like Figure 10 As shown, by separating the first and second side plates 218 and 224 to form a tubular structure defined by the outer plates 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, and 226, the flattened, foldable carrier can be opened into a basket-style item carrier 290. The outer plates 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, and 226 define an internal cavity. When the flattened, foldable carrier is opened or erected into a tubular form, the partition structures P1 and P2 automatically erect.

[0159] The first substrate 238A / 238C and the second substrate 238B form a composite substrate 238A / 238C / 238B, which automatically stands upright when the flat folding carrier is opened.

[0160] Once the carrier 290 is erected, the first and second intermediate plates 214, 228 form a partition that is disposed in the middle within the carrier 290 formed by the outer plates 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226. This partition divides the interior of the carrier 290 into two separate compartments on opposite sides of the first and second intermediate plates 214, 228. The partition extends longitudinally along the carrier 290.

[0161] The first partition structure P1 automatically erects to form a first plurality of units in the first compartment provided on the first side of the first and second intermediate plates 214, 228.

[0162] The second partition structure P2 automatically erects to form a second plurality of units in the second compartments provided on the second sides of the first and second intermediate plates 214, 228.

[0163] The first and second partition structures P1 and P2 extend laterally to the carrier 290.

[0164] Carrier 290 can hold a set of items; Figure 10 In the embodiment shown, six items (not shown) are arranged in a 3×2 array.

[0165] The items can be loaded at the top of the tubular structure formed by the outer plates 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, and 226.

[0166] Now for reference Figure 11 Additional embodiments of this disclosure are shown. In the fourth embodiment shown, the same numbers are used to denote the same parts where possible, although the prefix "300" is used instead of the prefix "200" to indicate that these features belong to the fourth embodiment. This additional embodiment shares many common features with the third embodiment, and therefore will only describe in detail the differences from the embodiments shown in Figures 8A to 10.

[0167] Figure 11 The fourth embodiment is illustrated, showing a blank 310 having a plurality of plates 312, 314, 316, 318, 320, 322, 324, 326, 328, which are arranged in a linear series hinged one after another by fold lines 313, 315, 317, 319, 321, 323, 325, 327.

[0168] The blank 110 includes a plurality of outer plates 316, 318, 320, 322, 324, and 326 for forming a tubular structure. The plurality of outer plates 316, 318, 320, 322, 324, and 326 include a first end plate 316. A first side plate 318 is hingedly connected to the first end plate 316 via a hinge connection in the form of a zigzag line 317. A second end plate 320 is hingedly connected to the first side plate 318 via a hinge connection in the form of a zigzag line 319. A third end plate 322 is hingedly connected to the second end plate 320 via a hinge connection in the form of a zigzag line 321. A second side plate 324 is hingedly connected to the third end plate 322 via a hinge connection in the form of a zigzag line 323, and a fourth end plate 326 is hingedly connected to the second side plate 324 via a hinge connection in the form of a zigzag line 325.

[0169] The blank 310 includes a first substrate 338A / 338C, which is hinged to a first side plate 318 via a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 337A. The first substrate 338A / 338C includes a fold line 339 extending longitudinally across the first substrate 338A / 338C to define the first and second portions 338A and 338C, respectively. The blank 310 includes a second substrate 338B, which is hinged to a second side plate 324 via a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 337B. The first and second substrates 338A / 338C and 338B are also referred to herein as end-closing folds because they close one end of a tubular structure formed by a plurality of outer plates 316, 318, 320, 322, 324, and 326.

[0170] The blank 310 includes a locking mechanism comprising at least one locking tab Lt extending from an end edge of a second or distal portion 338C of the first substrate 338A / 338C. The end edge is opposite a hinged edge defined by a fold line 339. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking mechanism includes two locking tabs Lt.

[0171] The locking mechanism includes at least one receiving portion Rc, which is either stamped out of or defined within the second substrate 338B. Each receiving portion Rc is configured to receive a corresponding locking tab Lt. The receiving portion may include an opening at least partially defined by a cutout, which in the illustrated embodiment takes the form of a cutting line, and may define a portion of a female tab or receiving tab. The female tab or receiving tab is hingedly connected to the second substrate 338B.

[0172] The locking mechanism may also include at least one auxiliary tab defined by a cutting line Ct. The cutting line Ct interrupts the fold line 339 that hinges the first and second portions 338A, 338C of the first substrate 338A / 338C together. The illustrated embodiment includes three auxiliary tabs. Each auxiliary tab is stamped out of or defined in the first portion 338A and extends integrally from the second portion 338C.

[0173] The locking mechanism may also include an alignment or assembly aperture A1. The assembly aperture A1 is generally triangular in shape and facilitates the assembly of the composite substrates 338A / 338C / 338B. Additionally or alternatively, the assembly aperture A1 may also be configured to receive a corresponding one of the auxiliary tabs.

[0174] The first and second substrates 338A / 338C, 338B may also include at least one ventilation opening. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second substrates 338A / 338C, 338B include five ventilation openings, and the ventilation openings are rectangular in shape.

[0175] The first partition plate portion 314B provided by the lower portion of the first intermediate plate 314 may include at least one recess to accommodate a locking mechanism, specifically, to accommodate a locking tab Lt when engaged in the receiving portion Rc.

[0176] The second partition plate portion 328B provided by the lower portion of the second intermediate plate 328 may include at least one recess to accommodate a locking mechanism, specifically, to accommodate a locking tab Lt when engaged in the receiving portion Rc.

[0177] The blank 310 includes a handle structure comprising a first bridging plate 330. The first bridging plate 330 is disposed adjacent to the upper edge of a first side plate 318 and separated from it by a cutting line 351. A first side edge of the first bridging plate 330 is connected to a side edge of a first handle reinforcement plate 332 via a hinged connection 331. A second side edge of the first bridging plate 330 is connected to a side edge of a first end plate 316 via a hinged connection portion arranged collinear with a fold line 317. This connection portion is sufficient to maintain the connection between the first bridging plate 330 and the first end plate 316 during the pre-assembly processing of the blank 310 and optionally during at least a portion of the assembly process.

[0178] The handle structure includes a second bridging plate 336, which is disposed adjacent to and separated from the second side plate 324 by a fourth cutting line 353. A first side edge of the second bridging plate 336 is connected to a side edge of the second handle reinforcement plate 334 via a hinged connection 335. A second side edge of the second bridging plate 336 is connected to a side edge of the fourth end plate 326 via a connecting portion 346, which is a hinged connection arranged collinearly with the fold line 325. The connecting portion 346 is sufficient to maintain the connection between the second bridging plate 336 and the fourth end plate 326 during the pre-assembly processing of the blank 310 and optionally during at least a portion of the assembly process.

[0179] The hinged connection 331 between the first bridging plate 330 and the first handle reinforcement plate 332 is partially defined by a slit or cutting line C5.

[0180] The cutting line C5 is non-linear and can be "C" or "U" shaped, and at least partially defines the first tab T5. The cutting line C5 extends from the first handle reinforcement plate 332 into the first bridging plate 330, such that the first tab T5 is stamped out from the first bridging plate 330. The end of the cutting line C5 is located at the interface or joint between the first bridging plate 330 and the first handle reinforcement plate 332; the middle portion of the cutting line C5 is located within the first bridging plate 330. The first handle reinforcement plate 332 includes a cut-out portion in the form of a recess R1 stamped from its side free edge "Fe". The recess R1 is located adjacent to the first bridging plate 330. The recess R1 is close to or adjacent to the hinge connection 331 and is partially defined by the upper edge of the first bridging plate 330, such that the recess R1 extends upward from the upper edge of the bridging plate 330 toward the upper end of the first handle reinforcement plate 332. When the blank 310 is assembled or erected into an article carrier, the recess R1 is positioned facing the inner surface of the end plates 316 / 326. The recess R1 is located at the height of the upper end of the end plates 316, such that the upper end of the end plates 316 reaches this position when the carrier is erected. The nonlinear slit C5 defines a tab T5 formed by the handle reinforcement plate 332. When the blank is erected into the carrier, the tab T5 extends from the handle plate 332 toward the end plate 316. In the erected carrier, the tab T5 may optionally be positioned to abut against the inner surface of the end plates 316 / 326. The nonlinear slit C5 includes a longitudinal member that is generally aligned longitudinally with the free side edge “Fe” of the handle plate 332, while the longitudinal member may be offset from the bottom of the recess R1.

[0181] A similar recess R2 is defined in the handle plate 334. The features of the recess R2 are similar to those of R1 (with respect to the associated parts of its carrier, such as the bridging plate 336, end plate 326, hinged connection 335, nonlinear slit C6, tab T6, and the free side edge “Fe” of the handle plate 334).

[0182] The recess R1 can reduce the folding resistance of the hinged connection 331.

[0183] When the carrier is erected from a flat, folded form into a tubular structure, the recess R1 also facilitates the assembly of the carrier by preventing or reducing the possibility that the first handle reinforcement plate 332 may hook, obstruct, or otherwise interfere with the first end plate 316.

[0184] The hinged connection 333 between the second bridging plate 336 and the second handle reinforcement plate 334 is partially defined by the cutting line C6.

[0185] The cutting line C6 is non-linear and can be "C" or "U" shaped, and at least partially defines the second tab T6. The cutting line C6 extends from the second handle reinforcement plate 334 into the second bridging plate 336, causing the second tab T6 to be stamped out from the second bridging plate 336. The end of the cutting line C6 is located at the interface or joint between the second bridging plate 336 and the second handle reinforcement plate 334; the middle portion of the cutting line C6 is located in the second bridging plate 336.

[0186] The second handle reinforcement plate 334 includes a cutout in the form of a recess R2 stamped out from its side edge. The recess R2 is disposed adjacent to the second bridging plate 336. The recess R2 is close to or adjacent to the hinge connection 335 between the second bridging plate 336 and the second handle reinforcement plate 334. The recess R2 can have the effect of reducing the folding resistance of the hinge connection 335.

[0187] When the carrier is erected from a flat, folded form into a tubular structure, the recess R2 can also facilitate the assembly of the carrier by preventing or reducing the possibility that the second handle reinforcement plate 334 may hook, obstruct, or otherwise interfere with the fourth end plate 324.

[0188] This disclosure provides a collapsible article carrier 90; 290, including collapsible tubular structures 12 / 14 / 16 / 18; 216 / 218 / 220 / 222 / 224 / 226; 316 / 318 / 320 / 322 / 324 / 326. The collapsible article carrier 90; 290 may include foldable or retractable end closures.

[0189] This disclosure provides an article carrier 90; 290 and blanks 10; 10'; 210; 310 forming the carrier, wherein the carrier 90; 290 includes a handle plate 32; 232; 332 hinged to an end plate 16; 216; 316 via a bridging strip 34; 230; 330. When the article carrier 90; 290 is in an upright position, the bridging strip 34; 230; 330 extends along the inner surface of the end plate 16; 216; 316. The bridging strip 34; 230; 330 is connected to the handle plate 32; 232; 332 by a hinged connection including non-linear slits C1; C4; C5. The non-linear slits C1; C4; C5 can reduce the folding resistance of the material around the hinged connection.

[0190] Nonlinear slits can include “C”-shaped slits C1; C4; C5.

[0191] The hinged connection may also include broken lines 31 and 231 interrupted by nonlinear slits C1, C4, and C5.

[0192] The nonlinear slits C1, C4, and C5 may include lateral members extending in the transverse direction relative to the adjacent free edges Fe of the handle plates 32, 232, and 332.

[0193] The nonlinear slits C1, C4, and C5 may further include longitudinal members extending in a direction parallel to the free edges Fe of the handle plates 32, 232, and 332.

[0194] The longitudinal components may deviate from the free edges Fe of the handle plate 32; 232; 332.

[0195] The longitudinal components can be longitudinally aligned with the free edges Fe of the handle plates 32; 232; 332.

[0196] “C” shaped slits C1; C4; C5 can define tabs T1; T4; T5 extending from bridging strips 34; 230; 330 toward end plates 16; 216; 316.

[0197] Handle plates 32; 232; 332 can be hingedly connected to second handle plates 28; 28'; 234; 334. Second handle plates 28; 28'; 234; 334 can be hingedly connected to fixed plates 26; 26' along a second hinged connection 25. When the article carrier 90; 290 is in an upright position, the second hinged connection 25 includes an opening for receiving tabs T1; T4; T5. This opening can be defined by a second "C"-shaped slit C2. This opening can be defined by an aperture A. T limited.

[0198] This disclosure also provides an article carrier 90; 290 and blanks 10; 10'; 210; 310 forming the article carrier, wherein the article carrier 90; 290 includes handle plates 332, 334 hingedly connected to end plates 316, 326 via bridging strips 330, 336. When the article carrier 90; 290 is in an upright position, the bridging strips 330, 336 extend along the inner surfaces of the end plates 316, 326. The bridging strips 330, 336 are connected to the handle plates 332, 334 via hinged connections 331, 335 extending in substantially the same direction as the adjacent free edges Fe of the handle plates 332, 334. Recesses R1, R2 are formed along the free edges Fe such that the recesses R1, R2 are positioned adjacent to the bridging strips 330, 336 for connection thereto. The recesses R1 and R2 can reduce interference between the handle plates 332 and 334 and the end plates 316 and 326.

[0199] Hinged connections 331 and 335 may include nonlinear slits C5 and C6.

[0200] The nonlinear slits C5 and C6 include longitudinal members extending in a direction substantially longitudinally aligned with the free edges Fe of the handle plates 332 and 334.

[0201] The nonlinear slits C5 and C6 may further include lateral members extending in the transverse direction relative to the free edges Fe of the handle plates 332 and 334.

[0202] The longitudinal components of the nonlinear slits C5 and C6 deviate from the bottom of the recesses R1 and R2.

[0203] Multiple motherboards provide tubular walls that define the interior of carriers 90 and 290. These walls include first and second opposing sidewalls 14, 18; 218, 224; 318, 324 and first and second opposing endwalls 12, 16; 216 / 226, 220 / 222; 316 / 326, 320 / 322.

[0204] The tubular structure can be closed at one end by first and second plates 36, 38; 238A / 238C, 238B; 338A / 338C, 338B, which can be the base plates of the carrier 90; 290.

[0205] It will be understood that various modifications can be made within the scope of this invention. For example, the size and shape of the boards and openings can be adjusted to accommodate items of different sizes or shapes. This invention is not limited to basket carrier style cardboard boxes; it can be used for other cardboard box styles, such as, but not limited to, top-opening crates, covered or fully enclosed crates.

[0206] In one embodiment, the intermediate plate may be omitted, and the partition structure may be formed by the first of a pair of opposing wall panels, or it may be omitted altogether.

[0207] It will be recognized that directional references such as “top,” “bottom,” “base,” “front,” “rear,” “end,” “side,” “inner,” “outer,” “upper,” and “lower,” as used herein, do not necessarily restrict the corresponding plates to such orientation, but are merely used to distinguish these plates from one another.

[0208] As used herein, the terms "hinged connection" and "folded line" refer to any line that defines a hinge feature of a blank, facilitates the folding of portions of the blank relative to each other, or otherwise indicates the optimal folding position of the blank. Any reference to "hinged connection" should not be construed as necessarily referring to only a single folded line; in fact, a hinged connection can be formed by two or more folded lines, each of which can be straight / linear or curved / curved in shape. When linear folded lines form a hinged connection, they can be arranged parallel to each other or at a slight angle relative to each other. When curved folded lines form a hinged connection, they can intersect each other to define a shaped plate within the area enclosed by the curved folded lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may include a pair of arched or bow-shaped folded lines intersecting at two points, such that they define an elliptical plate therebetween. A hinged connection can be formed by one or more linear folded lines and one or more curved folded lines. Typical examples of such hinged connections may include a combination of linear broken lines and arched or bow-shaped broken lines that intersect at two points, thereby defining a crescent-shaped plate between them.

[0209] As used herein, the term "zigzag line" may refer to one of the following: scribing line, embossed line, recessed line, perforated line, short slit line, half-cut line, single half-cut line, discontinuous cut line, aligned slit line, scuff line, and any combination of the foregoing options.

[0210] It should be understood that hinged connections and fold lines can each be elements formed in the substrate of the blank, including perforations, perforation lines, short slit lines, half-cut lines, single half-cut lines, cut lines, discontinuous cut lines, slits, scratches, embossed lines, grooved lines, and any combination thereof. The size and arrangement of the elements can be set to provide the desired function. For example, the size or design of the perforation line can be set to have a weakening effect to define a fold line or a dividing line or both. The perforation line can be designed to facilitate folding and prevent breakage, to facilitate folding and breakage with greater force, or to facilitate breakage with less force.

[0211] As used herein, the term "alignment" refers to the alignment of two or more elements in an upright cardboard box, such as an opening formed in a first of two overlapping plates and a second opening formed in a second of two overlapping plates. Those elements aligned with each other can be aligned with each other in the thickness direction of the overlapping plates. For example, when an opening in a first plate is "aligned" with a second opening in a second plate, the second plate is positioned to overlap with the first plate, the edge of the opening can extend along at least a portion of the edge of the second opening, and the opening can be aligned with the second opening in the thickness direction of both the first and second plates.

Claims

1. An article carrier for packaging one or more articles, the article carrier comprising a handle plate hinged to an end plate via a bridging strip extending along an inner surface of the end plate, wherein, The bridging strip is connected to the handle plate via a hinged connection including a non-linear slit.

2. The article carrier according to claim 1, wherein, The nonlinear slit includes a "C"-shaped slit.

3. The article carrier according to claim 1, wherein, The hinged connection also includes a broken line interrupted by a nonlinear slit.

4. The article carrier according to claim 1, wherein, The nonlinear slit includes a lateral component extending in the lateral direction relative to the adjacent free edge of the handle plate.

5. The article carrier according to claim 4, wherein, The nonlinear slit also includes a longitudinal member extending in a direction parallel to the free edge of the handle plate.

6. The article carrier according to claim 5, wherein, The longitudinal component is offset from the free edge of the handle plate.

7. The article carrier according to claim 5, wherein, The longitudinal component is longitudinally aligned with the free edge of the handle plate.

8. The article carrier according to claim 2, wherein, The "C"-shaped slit defines a tab extending from the bridging strip toward the end plate.

9. The article carrier according to claim 8, wherein, The first handle plate is hinged to the second handle plate, which is hinged to the fixed plate along a second hinge connection, wherein the second hinge connection includes an opening for receiving the tab when the article carrier is in an upright position.

10. The article carrier according to claim 9, wherein, The opening is defined by a second "C"-shaped slit.

11. The article carrier according to claim 9, wherein, The opening is defined by an orifice.

12. The article carrier of claim 1, comprising a plurality of main boards, the main boards providing tubular walls and defining the interior of the article carrier, the walls including first and second opposing side walls and first and second opposing end walls, wherein, One of the first and second end walls includes the end plate, and the handle plate extends between the first and second opposing end walls.

13. The article carrier of claim 12, comprising first and second substrates at one end of a closed tubular structure.

14. An article carrier for packaging one or more articles, the article carrier comprising a handle plate hinged to an end plate via a bridging strip extending along an inner surface of the end plate, wherein, The bridging strip is connected to the handle plate by a hinged connection that extends in substantially the same direction as the adjacent free edge of the handle plate, wherein a recess is formed along the free edge such that the recess is disposed adjacent to the bridging strip.

15. The article carrier according to claim 14, wherein, The recess is partially defined by the upper edge of the bridging strip.

16. The article carrier according to claim 14, wherein, The recess is located on the inner surface of the recess facing the end plate.

17. The article carrier according to claim 16, wherein, The position is located at the height of the upper end of the end plate, such that the upper end reaches the position.

18. The article carrier according to claim 14, wherein, The hinged connection includes a non-linear slit.

19. The article carrier according to claim 18, wherein, The nonlinear slit defines a tab formed by the handle plate, the tab extending from the handle plate toward the end plate such that the tab is positioned adjacent to the inner surface of the end plate.

20. The article carrier according to claim 14, wherein, The nonlinear slit includes a longitudinal member that is generally longitudinally aligned with the free edge of the handle plate, and wherein the longitudinal member is offset from the bottom of the recess.

21. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a plurality of main plates for forming walls of a tubular structure defining an internal cavity, the plurality of main plates including end plates and handle plates hinged to the end plates via bridging strips, wherein, When the article carrier is in an upright position, the bridging strip extends along the inner surface of the end plate, and wherein the bridging strip is connected to the handle plate by a hinged connection including a non-linear slit.

22. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a plurality of main plates for forming walls of a tubular structure defining an internal cavity, the plurality of main plates including end plates and handle plates hinged to the end plates via bridging strips, wherein, When the item carrier is in an upright position, the bridging strip extends along the inner surface of the end plate, wherein the bridging strip is connected to the handle plate by a hinged connection that extends in substantially the same direction as the adjacent free edge of the handle plate, and wherein a recess is formed along the free edge such that the recess is disposed adjacent to the bridging strip.

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