Article carrier and blank for use therein

Abstract

This disclosure relates to an article carrier for engaging at least one article. The article carrier includes a plurality of main plates forming a tubular structure defining a tubular axis. The plurality of main plates include a pair of spaced-apart plates, the pair including an upper plate and a lower plate. At least one of the upper plate and the lower plate includes at least one article engaging device, wherein the upper plate has a first width extending perpendicular to the tubular axis, and the lower plate has a second width extending perpendicular to the tubular axis. The first width is greater than the second width.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to packaging, article carriers, and blanks for forming article carriers. More specifically, but not exclusively, this invention relates to a top-clamping type carrier having: a connecting plate including one or more openings for receiving and holding articles therein, and a keel structure to improve packaging stability. Background Technology

[0002] In the packaging industry, cardboard boxes are known for carrying multiple items. Cardboard boxes are well-known in the art and are used to enable consumers to transport, store, and retrieve a set of items for consumption. For cost and environmental reasons, such cardboard boxes or carriers need to be made from as little material as possible, with minimal waste of the materials used to form them. Other considerations include the strength of the cardboard box and its suitability for holding and transporting heavy items. It is desirable that the contents of the cardboard box be secured within the box.

[0003] Top-clamping article carriers are well-known, in which an opening is formed in a plate of the carrier, and a tab is punched out from the opening. When an article is received in the opening, the tab displaces out of the plane of the plate, wherein the tab engages the article generally around a flange or lip.

[0004] This invention aims to provide improvements in the field of cardboard boxes, which are typically made of paperboard or the like. Summary of the Invention

[0005] A first aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for joining at least one article. The article carrier includes a plurality of main plates and a keel structure. The plurality of main plates include a pair of wing plates disposed on opposite sides of the keel structure and at least partially forming a lower plate. The keel structure includes: a first leg or beam plate hingedly connected to one of the wing plates; a second leg or beam plate opposite to the first beam plate; and a platform or spacer extending between the legs or beam plates. The second leg or beam plate is hingedly connected to the other of the wing plates. The wing plates are joined together by bridging tabs adhesively fixed to at least one of the wing plates.

[0006] Optionally, the bridging tabs are arranged in surface contact with the two flanges.

[0007] A second aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for engaging at least one article. The article carrier includes a plurality of main plates forming a tubular structure defining a tubular axis. The plurality of main plates include a pair of spaced-apart plates, the pair including an upper plate and a lower plate. At least one of the upper plate and the lower plate includes at least one article engaging device. The upper plate has a first width extending perpendicular to the tubular axis. The lower plate has a second width extending perpendicular to the tubular axis, wherein the first width is greater than the second width.

[0008] Optionally, each of the first width dimension and the second width dimension is measured as the dimension of the connection from the first hinge between a pair of adjacent plates to the second hinge between a second pair of adjacent plates.

[0009] A third aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for joining at least one article. The article carrier includes a plurality of main plates and a keel structure. The plurality of main plates include a pair of spaced-apart opposing plates, the pair of opposing plates including an upper plate and a lower plate. The lower plate includes a pair of flanges disposed on opposite sides of the keel structure. The keel structure includes a pair of opposing legs or beams, and a platform or spacer bridging the pair of opposing legs or beams. The upper plate is provided with at least two article joining devices disposed on opposite sides of the platform or spacer.

[0010] Optionally, the at least two article engaging devices are sized and positioned such that opposite side edges of the table or partition contact the article engaged by the at least two article engaging devices.

[0011] A fourth aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for engaging at least one article. The article carrier includes a plurality of main plates forming a tubular structure defining a tubular axis. The plurality of main plates include a pair of spaced-apart opposing plates, the pair of opposing plates including an upper plate and a lower plate. At least the upper plate includes at least one article engaging device. The upper plate has a first length extending along the tubular axis. The lower plate has a second length extending along the tubular axis, wherein the first length is less than the second length.

[0012] A fifth aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for engaging at least one article. The article carrier includes a plurality of main plates and a keel structure. The plurality of plates form a tubular structure defining a tubular axis. The main plates include a pair of spaced-apart opposing plates, the pair of opposing plates including an upper plate and a lower plate. At least one of the upper plate and the lower plate includes at least one article engaging device. The plurality of plates further include a first end-closing plate for at least partially closing an end of the tubular structure. The keel structure is disposed within the tubular structure and includes a second end-closing plate, wherein the first end-closing plate and the second end-closing plate are spaced apart from each other.

[0013] A sixth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank includes a plurality of main plates for forming a tubular structure, and a keel structure. The plurality of main plates include a pair of wing plates disposed on opposite sides of the plates forming the keel structure. The pair of wing plates are configured and arranged to at least partially form a lower plate of the article carrier. The keel structure includes: a first beam plate hinged to one of the wing plates; a second beam plate opposite to the first beam plate; and a spacer plate extending between the first and second beam plates. The wing plates can be connected together by bridging tabs that can be secured to at least one of the wing plates.

[0014] A seventh aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank includes a plurality of main plates for forming a tubular structure defining a tubular axis. The plurality of main plates include plates for forming a pair of spaced-apart plates, the pair of plates including an upper plate and a lower plate. At least one of the upper plate and the lower plate includes at least one article engaging device. The upper plate has a first width extending perpendicular to the tubular axis, and the lower plate has a second width extending perpendicular to the tubular axis. The first width is greater than the second width.

[0015] An eighth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank includes a plurality of main plates for forming a tubular structure and a keel structure. The plurality of main plates include plates for forming a pair of spaced-apart opposing plates, the pair of opposing plates including an upper plate and a lower plate. The lower plate includes a pair of flanges disposed on opposite sides of the plate forming the keel structure. The keel structure includes a pair of opposing beam plates and a spacer bridging the pair of opposing beam plates. The upper plate is provided with at least two article engaging devices configured to be disposed on opposite sides of the spacer.

[0016] A ninth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank includes a plurality of main plates for forming a tubular structure defining a tubular axis. The plurality of main plates include plates for forming a pair of spaced-apart opposing plates, the pair of opposing plates including an upper plate and a lower plate. At least the upper plate includes at least one article engaging device. The upper plate has a first length extending along the tubular axis, and the lower plate has a second length extending along the tubular axis. The first length is less than the second length.

[0017] A tenth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank includes a plurality of main plates for forming a tubular structure, and a keel structure. The tubular structure defines a tubular axis. The main plates include plates for forming a pair of spaced-apart opposing plates, the pair of opposing plates including an upper plate and a lower plate. At least one of the upper plate and the lower plate includes at least one article engaging device. The plurality of plates further include a first end-closing plate for at least partially closing an end of the tubular structure. The keel structure is disposed within the tubular structure and includes a second end-closing plate. In the disposed state, the first end-closing plate and the second end-closing plate are spaced apart from each other.

[0018] An eleventh aspect of the present invention provides an article carrier for packaging at least one article. The article carrier includes a plurality of main boards for forming a top engagement structure. The plurality of main boards include a base plate and at least one side plate connected to the base plate via a first hinge connection. The base plate includes at least one engagement device for receiving and engaging articles. The at least one engagement device includes an engagement tab connected to the base plate via a second hinge connection. The engagement tab is formed partially by the base plate and partially by the at least one side plate. When folded about the second hinge connection, the engagement tab defines an opening spanning the first hinge connection.

[0019] Optionally, the engaging tab has a first length dimension extending between the second hinge connection and the distal end of the engaging tab, the second hinge connection being configured at a distance from the first hinge connection, and wherein the first length dimension is greater than the distance.

[0020] A twelfth aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for packaging at least one article. The article carrier includes a plurality of main boards for forming a top engagement structure. The plurality of main boards include a base plate and a floor keel plate disposed in contact with the surface of the base plate. The base plate includes a pair of adjacent engagement devices, each engagement device for receiving and engaging articles. Each of the adjacent engagement devices includes an engagement tab connected to the base plate for load-bearing engagement with the article received in each engagement device. The floor keel plate includes a pair of positioning protrusions along its opposite side edges. The positioning protrusions are positioned abutting the engagement tabs of the adjacent engagement devices to facilitate positioning the floor keel plate between the adjacent engagement devices.

[0021] Optionally, the positioning protrusion aligns the base plate keel plate centered between adjacent joints.

[0022] Optionally, the opposite side edges are defined by a hinged connection between a base plate keel plate and a pair of beam keel plates, the base plate keel plate including a first width dimension defined between the opposite side edges, and a positioning protrusion defining a second width dimension that is greater than the first width dimension.

[0023] Optionally, the engagement tabs of adjacent engagement devices are spaced apart by a second distance, which is greater than the first width dimension.

[0024] Optionally, the second distance can be approximately equal to the second width dimension.

[0025] Optionally, the engagement tabs of each engagement device are connected to the substrate by a hinged connection, and the hinged connections of the engagement tabs of adjacent engagement devices are arranged to be spaced apart by a second distance.

[0026] A thirteenth aspect of the present invention provides an article carrier for packaging at least one article. The article carrier includes a plurality of main plates forming a tubular structure defining a tubular axis. The plurality of main plates include a pair of spaced-apart plates, the pair including an upper plate and a lower plate. At least one of the upper plate and the lower plate includes at least one article engaging means. The upper plate has an upper plate width extending perpendicular to the tubular axis. The lower plate has a lower plate width extending perpendicular to the tubular axis. The upper plate width is greater than the lower plate width.

[0027] Optionally, each of the upper plate width and the lower plate width is measured as the dimension of the connection from the first hinge between a pair of adjacent main plates to the second hinge between a second pair of adjacent main plates.

[0028] Optionally, the lower plate is a single continuous plate having a pair of opposite side edges, each side edge extending parallel to the tubular axis, and wherein the width of the lower plate extends between the opposite side edges of the lower plate.

[0029] Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the specific embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings and discussed below.

[0030] Within the scope of this application, it is contemplated or anticipated that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features, and alternatives set forth in the preceding paragraphs, claims, and / or the following description and drawings may be adopted independently or in any combination thereof.

[0031] Features or elements described in connection with or relating to one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments unless there is feature incompatibility. One or more features or elements from one embodiment may be incorporated into or combined with any of the other embodiments disclosed herein, and features or elements extracted from said one embodiment may be included to supplement or replace one or more features or elements of said other embodiments.

[0032] Features or combinations of features of the embodiments disclosed herein may be extracted in isolation from other features of that embodiment. Alternatively, features or combinations of features of an embodiment may be omitted from that embodiment. Attached Figure Description

[0033] Exemplary embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: Figure 1 This is a top plan view of the blank for forming the carrier according to the first embodiment; Figure 2 It is by Figure 1 A top perspective view of the carrier formed from the blank; Figures 3 to 5 yes Figure 2 Perspective views of the various construction stages of the carrier; Figure 6 and Figure 7 It is by Figure 1 An alternative perspective view of the carrier formed from the blank; Figure 8 This is a top plan view of the blank used to form the carrier according to the second embodiment; Figure 9 and Figure 10 It is by Figure 8 Perspective views of the various construction stages of the carrier formed from the blank; Figure 11 It is by Figure 8 A top perspective view of the carrier formed from the blank; Figure 12 It is by Figure 8 A bottom perspective view of the bearing formed from the blank; Figure 13 This is a top plan view of the blank for forming the carrier according to the third embodiment; Figure 14 It is by Figure 13 A top perspective view of the carrier formed from the blank; Figure 15 This is a top plan view of the blank for forming the carrier according to the fourth embodiment; Figure 16 It is by Figure 15 A top perspective view of the carrier formed from the blank; Figure 17 yes Figure 16 A perspective view of the end of the carrier; Figure 18 yes Figure 16 A perspective view of the top of the carrier; Figure 19 yes Figure 16 A bottom perspective view of the carrier; and Figure 20 yes Figure 16 A perspective view of a portion of the top of the carrier, in which a section has been removed for illustrative purposes. Detailed Implementation

[0034] This document discloses detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of packaging, blanks, and carriers. It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of ways in which certain aspects of the invention can be implemented and are not an exhaustive list of all ways in which the invention can be specifically implemented. As used herein, the term "exemplary" is used broadly to refer to embodiments used as illustrations, samples, models, or patterns. In practice, it will be understood that the packaging, blanks, and carriers described herein can be implemented in various and alternative forms. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show detail of particular components. Well-known components, materials, or methods are not necessarily described in great detail to avoid obscuring this disclosure. Any particular structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be construed as limiting but are merely intended as the basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to employ the invention in various ways.

[0035] refer to Figure 1 It shows the ability to form cardboard boxes or carriers 90 (such as...) Figure 2 The blank 10 (shown in the diagram) is a plan view of a cardboard box or carrier used to contain and carry a group of main products, such as, but not limited to, bottles or cans, hereinafter referred to as Article B. The blank 10 forms a secondary package for packaging at least one main product container or package.

[0036] exist Figure 8 , Figure 13 and Figure 15 The diagram shows 190; 290; 390 (e.g., for forming cardboard boxes or carriers) Figure 9 , Figure 14 and Figure 16 Alternative blanks 110; 210; 310 (shown in the figure) are used to contain and carry a group of main products, such as, but not limited to, bottles or cans, hereinafter referred to as Article B.

[0037] In the embodiments detailed herein, for the non-limiting purpose of illustrating various features of the invention, the terms "cardboard box" and "carrier" refer to containers used for joining and carrying articles, such as main product containers. It is contemplated that the teachings of the invention can be applied to a variety of product containers, which may or may not be tapered and / or cylindrical. Exemplary containers include bottles (e.g., metal bottles, glass bottles, or plastic bottles), cans (e.g., aluminum cans), tinware, bags, pouches, etc.

[0038] Blanks 10; 110; 210; 310 are formed from suitable substrate sheets. It will be understood that, as used herein, the term "suitable substrate" includes all kinds of foldable sheet materials, such as cardboard, corrugated cardboard, hardboard, plastics, combinations thereof, etc. It should be recognized that, where appropriate, one or more blanks may be used, for example, to provide the carrier structure described in more detail below.

[0039] The packaging structures or cardboard boxes 90; 190; 290; 390 described herein may be formed from sheet materials (such as cardboard), which may be made of multiple materials or coated with materials to increase their strength. It should be noted that more than one layer may be used to provide tear-resistant material to help improve the tear resistance of the packaging. Typically, one surface of the sheet material may have different properties than another surface. For example, the surface of the sheet material facing outwards from the finished packaging may be particularly smooth and may have a coating (such as a clay coating or other surface treatment) to provide good printability. On the other hand, the inward-facing surface of the sheet material may be provided with a coating, layer, treatment, or otherwise prepared to provide one or more of the following properties: tear resistance, good adhesion, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties.

[0040] The material of the paperboard substrate can be selected from any conventional paperboard, for example, in weight ranges from about 10 pt. upwards, preferably from about 16 pt. upwards to about 28 pt. (0.0287-0.7 mm). Examples of such substrates are 23-point (pt.) SBS boards (coated with solid bleached sulfate paperboard on one side, trade name PrintKote®) or CNK® boards (Coated Natural Kraft®—unbleached kraft paperboard with a clay coating on one side, trade name CarrierKote™) manufactured by WestRock®. The paperboard substrate can be bleached or unbleached. The board can be coated on at least one side, optionally on the side opposite to the lamination, with a conventional coating selected for compatibility with the printing method and paperboard composition.

[0041] Preforms 10; 110; 210; 310 may include a tear-resistant layer laminated to a paperboard layer. It optionally includes an adhesive layer located between the paperboard substrate and the tear-resistant layer. The tear-resistant layer may be disposed over the uncoated side of the paperboard substrate and may be formed from a polymeric material and fixed to the substrate. The tear-resistant layer imparts toughness to the laminated structure. Suitable tear-resistant materials may include, but are not limited to, tear-resistant laminated sheet materials, such as NATRALOCK®, which may include an n-axis oriented film (e.g., MYLAR®) that is a biaxially oriented polyester, oriented nylon, cross-laminated polyolefin, or high-density polyolefin. The orientation and cross-laminated structure of these materials contribute to the tear-resistant properties. Moreover, tear resistance may be attributed to the chemical properties of the tear-resistant material, such as extruded metallocene catalytic polyethylene (mPE).

[0042] Alternatively, the tear-resistant layer can be a linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) layer. In embodiments using linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) or mPE, it is not necessary to combine an adhesive layer. Other suitable materials with high levels of tear resistance may also be used.

[0043] The adhesive layer can be formed from polyolefin materials, such as low-density polyethylene (LDPE). The adhesive layer can be placed between the substrate and the tear-resistant layer to secure the tear-resistant layer to the substrate.

[0044] In the illustrated embodiment, blanks 10; 110; 210; 310 are configured to form cardboard boxes or carriers 90; 190; 290; 390 for packaging exemplary article B. In the illustrated embodiment, the arrangement is a 2×3 matrix or array, and article B is a 500 ml (16.9 US ounce) bottle.

[0045] Alternatively, blanks 10; 110; 210; 310 can be configured to form carriers for packaging other types, quantities, and sizes of articles B and / or for packaging articles B in different arrangements or configurations.

[0046] refer to Figure 1 The blank 10 is shown, which includes a plurality of plates 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, including those for at least partially forming a carrier 90 (see...). Figure 2 ) of the first upper plate 12 of the top wall.

[0047] The first side plate 14 is hingedly connected to the first side of the first upper plate 12 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag 13. The first lower plate 16 or the first joining plate 16 (also referred to herein as a wing plate) is hingedly connected to the first side plate 14 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag 15.

[0048] The blank 10 includes a support or keel structure for increasing the rigidity of the load-bearing device 90. The support or keel structure may take the form of a beam extending longitudinally along the load-bearing device 90.

[0049] The keel structure is hinged to the first wing plate 16. The keel structure includes: a first keel plate 18 (also referred to herein as a leg or beam plate), which is hinged to the first wing plate 16 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 17; a second keel plate 20 (also referred to herein as a platform or partition plate), which is hinged to the first keel plate 18 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 19; and a third keel plate 22 (also referred to herein as a leg or beam plate), which is hinged to the second keel plate 20 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 21.

[0050] The second lower plate 24 or the second joining plate 24 (also referred to herein as the wing plate) is hingedly connected to the third keel plate 22 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag 23.

[0051] The second side plate 26 is hinged to the second lower plate 24 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 25. The second upper plate 28 is hinged to the second side plate 26 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 27.

[0052] The first upper plate 12, the second upper plate 28, the first side plate 14 and the second side plate 26, the first lower plate 16 and the second lower plate 24, as well as the first keel plate 18 and the third keel plate 22 form a tubular structure.

[0053] Each of the first lower plate 16 and the second lower plate 24 of the blank 10 includes at least one article holding structure RT. The blank 10 includes a plurality of article holding structures RT, specifically six article holding structures RT arranged in a 2×3 matrix or array, with a first column of three article holding structures RT disposed in the first lower plate 16 and a second column of three article holding structures RT disposed in the second lower plate 24. Each of the article holding structures RT includes an article receiving opening at least partially defined by engaging tabs or teeth 40, 42.

[0054] The article holding structure RT includes a first engaging tab 40, which is stamped partially from either the first lower plate 16 or the second lower plate 24 and partially from the adjacent of the first side plate 14 and the second side plate 26. The article holding structure RT is hinged to one of the first side plate 14 and the second side plate 26 by a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 41. The zigzag line 41 is offset relative to one of the zigzag lines 15, 25 that hinge the respective first side plate 14 or second side plate 26 to one of the first lower plate 16 and the second lower plate 24.

[0055] The second engaging tab 42 is stamped out from the first lower plate 16 or the second lower plate 24 and is hinged to it via a fold line 43. The second engaging tab 42 is separated from the first engaging tab 40 by a cutting line or a divisible line and is hinged in a manner opposite to the second engaging tab 62.

[0056] The first upper plate 12 includes at least one second article receiving opening defined by orifice A1. In the illustrated embodiment, the first upper plate 12 includes three second article receiving openings arranged in a 1×3 matrix or array; each second article receiving opening is configured to be vertically aligned with one of the article holding structures RT in the first lower plate 16. Orifice A1 is defined by a cutting line that may define a fan-shaped or serrated engagement edge in the first upper plate 12. Orifice A1 in the first upper plate 12 is smaller in size, diameter, or width than the opening in the first lower plate 16 defined by engagement tabs 40, 42.

[0057] The second upper plate 28 includes at least one second article receiving opening defined by orifice A1. In the illustrated embodiment, the second upper plate 28 includes three second article receiving openings arranged in a 1×3 matrix or array; each second article receiving opening is configured to be vertically aligned with one of the article holding structures RT in the second lower plate 24. Orifice A1 is defined by a cutting line that may define a fan-shaped or serrated engagement edge in the second upper plate 28. Orifice A1 in the second upper plate 28 is smaller in size, diameter, or width than the opening in the second lower plate 24 defined by engagement tabs 40, 42.

[0058] The first upper plate 12 includes a handle structure H1, which may include at least one handle or finger opening. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of finger openings spaced apart from each other are provided. Each finger opening may be at least partially defined by a handle flap 60, which is stamped out of and hingedly connected to the first upper plate 12.

[0059] The second upper plate 28 may include at least one handle or finger opening, and in the illustrated embodiment, a pair of second finger openings are provided in the form of orifices A2. Each of the orifices A2 is configured to be vertically aligned with one of the finger openings in the first upper plate 12. The orifices A2 may be arranged to be larger in size than the finger openings to facilitate receiving the handle flap 60.

[0060] The second keel plate 20 may include a portion of the handle structure H2. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of third finger openings spaced apart from each other are provided. Each third finger opening may be at least partially defined by a second handle flap 62, which is stamped out of and hingedly connected to the second keel plate 20. Each of the third finger openings is configured to be vertically aligned with one of the finger openings in the first upper plate 12 and a corresponding one of the openings A2 in the second upper plate 28.

[0061] The second upper plate 28 may include one or more cutaways. The cutaways may take the form of an opening A3 and / or a recess R. In the illustrated embodiment, the second upper plate 28 may include two recesses stamped from its opposite ends to provide rounded corners, and an opening A3 disposed in the second upper plate 28 between the openings of the pair of second fingers. When the second upper plate 28 is positioned overlying the second keel plate 20, the cutaways expose areas of the second keel plate. In this way, glue or other adhesive treatment can be applied to the second keel plate 20, thereby allowing the first upper plate 12 to be secured to the second keel plate 20. A single application of glue can be used to secure the first upper plate 12, the second upper plate 28, and the second keel plate 20 together.

[0062] The blank 10 includes a fixing device for securing the first lower plate 16 to the second lower plate 24. This fixing device takes the form of tabs T1 and T2 extending from the side edges of at least one of the first lower plate 16 and the second lower plate 24, and a receiver in the other of the first lower plate 16 and the second lower plate 24, which takes the form of a cutout, opening or aperture, slot or slit, in which the tabs T1 and T2 are received, such that the tabs T1 and T2 can be configured to overlap the other of the first lower plate 16 and the second lower plate 24.

[0063] The cut-off portion may be at least partially formed in the keel plate 18, 22 of the other, which is hinged to the first lower plate 16, 24.

[0064] In the illustrated embodiment, the fixing device takes the form of a first tab T1 extending from the side edge of the first lower plate 16 and a second tab T2 extending from the adjacent side edge of the second lower plate 24. The first tab T1 is stamped out from the first keel plate 18 and interrupts the hinged connection (fold line 17) between the first keel plate 18 and the first lower plate 16. When the first keel plate 18 is folded relative to the first lower plate 16, the first tab T1 remains substantially coplanar with the first lower plate 16, such that a first receiving opening is formed in the first keel plate 18 (in Figure 3(Best shown in the diagram). The opening of the first receiving member may be partially defined by an aperture A4 punched out from the first keel plate 18 and disposed adjacent to the first tab T1. The first tab T1 is partially defined by a pair of first cutting lines C1 extending from the fold line 17 into the first keel plate 18 and partially defined by the aperture A4.

[0065] The second tab T2 is punched out from the third keel plate 22 and interrupts the hinge connection (fold line 23) between the third keel plate 22 and the second lower plate 24. When the third keel plate 22 is folded relative to the second lower plate 24, the second tab T2 remains substantially coplanar with the second lower plate 24, thereby forming a second receiving opening in the third keel plate 22 (in Figure 3 (Best shown in the diagram). The second receiving opening may be partially defined by an aperture A4 punched from the third keel plate 22 and disposed adjacent to the second tab T2. The second tab T2 is partially defined by a pair of second cutting lines C2 extending from the fold line 23 into the third keel plate 22 and partially by the aperture A4.

[0066] In the illustrated embodiment, blank 10 includes a pair of securing devices. These securing devices are longitudinally offset relative to the articles in the first lower plate 16 and the second lower plate 24, and are generally aligned with respect to the handle opening.

[0067] The bearing 90 is constructed from blank 10, and blank 10 can be formed as follows: Figure 2 The assembled carrier 90 is shown in the figure.

[0068] The blank 10 is applied to a set of articles B. The blank 10 is lowered relative to the set of articles B. Each of the article holding structures RT of the blank 10 is aligned with the corresponding article B in the set. A portion of the article B passes through one of the first lower plate 16 and the second lower plate 24. The engaging tabs 40, 42 of each of the article holding structures RT are folded out of the plane of the first lower plate 16 or the second lower plate 24.

[0069] The blank 10 is folded around fold lines 17 and 23 to fold the first keel plate 18 and the third keel plate relative to the first lower plate 16 or the second lower plate 24 to which it is hinged. The second keel plate 20 is folded around fold lines 19 and 21 relative to the first keel plate 18 and the third keel plate 22. In some embodiments, the keel structure may be at least partially folded before the article B is received in the article holding structure RT.

[0070] Article B in the first lower plate 16 and the second lower plate 24 is brought together so that the first lower plate 16 and the second lower plate 24 are in close proximity or touching contact, thereby causing the first tab T1 and the second tab T2 to overlap. At least a portion of the first tab T1 is received in the opening of the second receiving member, and at least a portion of the second tab T2 is received in the opening of the first receiving member, as shown below. Figure 4 As shown in the diagram, the lower edges of the first keel plate 18 and the third keel plate 22 are brought close together or in contact with each other, so that the keel plates 18, 20, and 22 form a tubular structure with a generally triangular cross-sectional shape.

[0071] Adhesive or other adhesive treatment is applied to one or both of the first tab T1 and the second tab T2, such that the first tab T1 and the second tab T2 can be secured to each other and / or secured to a corresponding one of the first lower plate 16 and the second lower plate 24. The adhesive treatment can be applied before or during the folding of the keel structure.

[0072] The second side plate 26 is folded together with the second upper plate 28 around the fold line 25 to position the second side plate 26 around the side of the upper portion of the article B received in the second lower plate 24. The second side plate 26 can be folded at an angle of less than 90°, such that the second side plate 26 is tilted relative to the second lower plate 24 at a certain angle. The second side plate 26 and the second lower plate 24 partially define a second chamber having an interior, in which the second side plate 26 and the second lower plate 24 define an interior angle therebetween, which can be greater than 90°.

[0073] Fold the second upper plate 28 relative to the second side plate 26. This allows the second upper plate 28 to overlap the second keel plate 20, and the second upper plate to have surface contact with it, such as... Figure 5 As shown in the illustration. In doing so, the upper portion of article B, engaged by the second lower plate 24, is received in an opening A1 in the second upper plate 28. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper portion of article B is provided by an end closure or cap C.

[0074] The second upper plate 28 can be folded at an angle greater than 90° relative to the second side plate 26, so that the second side plate 26 is tilted relative to the second upper plate 28 at a certain tilt angle. The second side plate 26 and the second upper plate 28 partially define the internal cavity, and the second side plate 26 and the second upper plate 28 define an interior angle therebetween, which can be less than 90°.

[0075] Apply glue G or other adhesive treatment to the upper surface of the second keel plate 20—to the portions of the second keel plate 20 that are exposed by the cut-off portions A3, R—optionally, apply glue G or other adhesive treatment to the upper surface of the second upper plate 28.

[0076] The first side plate 14 is folded together with the first upper plate 12 around the fold line 15 to arrange the first side plate 14 around the side of the upper portion of the article B received in the first lower plate 16. The first side plate 14 can be folded at an angle of less than 90°, such that the first side plate 14 is tilted relative to the first lower plate 16 at a certain angle. The first side plate 14 and the first lower plate 16 partially define a first chamber having an interior, in which the first side plate 14 and the first lower plate 16 define an interior angle therebetween, which can be greater than 90°.

[0077] The first upper plate 12 is folded relative to the first side plate 14. The first upper plate 12 is then folded over at least a portion of the second upper plate 28 and the second keel plate 20, and the first upper plate is in surface contact with the second upper surface 28. In doing so, the upper portion of the article B, engaged by the first lower plate 16, is received in an opening A1 in the first upper plate 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper portion of the article B is provided by an end closure or cap C. The first upper plate 12 is fixed to at least one of the second upper plate 28 and the second keel plate 20. Figure 6 and Figure 7 The assembled carrier 90 is shown in the figure. The upper plates 12 and 28 form a connecting plate for receiving and engaging the article B, and the lower plates 16 and 24 form a support plate for suspending the article B therefrom.

[0078] Now for reference Figures 8 to 14 Alternative embodiments of this disclosure are illustrated. In the second and third illustrated embodiments, similar numbers have been used to represent similar parts where possible, except that the prefixes "100" and "200" have been added to indicate that these features belong to the second and third embodiments, respectively. Alternative embodiments and Figures 1 to 7 The embodiments share many common features, therefore they will only be described in more detail with respect to those in [the context of the previous sentence]. Figures 1 to 7 The differences between the embodiments illustrated in the figure and described above are shown in the figure.

[0079] refer to Figure 8 The blank 110 is shown, which includes multiple plates 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128, including those for forming a carrier 190 (see...). Figure 11 ) the top of the upper wall or cover or the cover plate 112.

[0080] The first side plate 114 is hingedly connected to the first side of the first upper plate 112 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 113. The first lower plate (or wing plate) 116 or the first joint plate 116 is hingedly connected to the first side plate 114 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 115.

[0081] The blank 110 includes a support or keel structure for increasing the rigidity of the load-bearing device 190. The support or keel structure may take the form of a beam extending longitudinally along the load-bearing device 190.

[0082] The keel structure is hinged to a first lower plate 116, the keel structure including: a first keel plate 118 (also referred to herein as a beam plate), which is hinged to the first lower plate 116 via a hinged connection in the form of a broken line 117; a second keel plate 120, which is hinged to the first keel plate 118 via a hinged connection in the form of a broken line 119; and a third keel plate 122 (also referred to herein as a beam plate), which is hinged to the second keel plate 120 via a hinged connection in the form of a broken line 121.

[0083] The second lower plate (or wing plate) 124 or the second joint plate 124 is hingedly connected to the third keel plate 122 by a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 123.

[0084] The second side plate 126 is hinged to the second lower plate 124 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 125. The second upper plate 128 is hinged to the second side plate 126 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 127.

[0085] The first upper plate 112, the second upper plate 128, the first side plate 114 and the second side plate 126, the first lower / wing plate 116 and the second lower / wing plate 124 form the outer shell structure, while the first keel plate 118, the second keel plate 120 and the third keel plate 122 form the keel structure. Figures 8 to 12 Each of the outer shell structure and the keel structure in the embodiments is generally tubular. The term "generally tubular" in this disclosure refers to a shape or configuration that is not entirely tubular in the sense that the interior space of the generally tubular structure is not completely surrounded by the associated outer shell. Such an outer shell defines a tubular axis but may have a gap extending along the tubular axis that extends at least partially along the length of the outer shell. Figures 8 to 12 The embodiments illustrate such a generally tubular structure of channel shape, having a generally "C"-shaped or "U"-shaped cross-section. More specifically, the shell structure formed by plates 112, 128, 114, 126, 116, and 124 is a generally tubular structure, with gaps between the flanges 116 and 124, while the keel structure formed by the first keel plate 118, the second keel plate 120, and the third keel plate 122 is a generally tubular structure, with gaps between the lower ends of the first keel plate 118 and the third keel plate 122. Both gaps in the example extend entirely along the respective tubular axis or channel axis.

[0086] The first upper plate 112 is configured to cover the entire top of the carrier 190, that is, it extends from the first side plate 114 across the carrier 190 to the second side plate 126. The upper plate 112 includes six openings A1 arranged in a 2×3 matrix or array. A first end-closing fold 130A is hinged to the first end of the upper plate 112 via a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 131A. A first bridging tab 132A is hinged to the first end-closing fold 130A via a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 133A. A second end-closing fold 130B is hinged to the second end of the upper plate 112 via a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 131B. A second bridging tab 132B is hinged to the second end-closing fold 130B via a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 133B.

[0087] The second upper plate 128 is a partial cover plate and forms an inner upper plate. The second upper plate includes an article receiving opening A5 for receiving a corresponding one of the articles B engaged by the second lower plate 124. The second upper plate includes a recess or cutout R1 located in a side edge opposite the hinged connection to the second side plate 126. The recess R1 is configured to align with a portion of the handle opening in the first upper plate 112 and the second keel plate 120.

[0088] The lengths of the first upper plate 112 and the second upper plate 128 are shorter than those of the first lower plate 116 and the second lower plate 124. The first upper plate 112 and the second upper plate 128 have a length L1, and the first lower plate 116 and the second lower plate 124 have a length L2, where length L1 is less than length L2.

[0089] Optionally, the length of the second keel plate 120 may be shorter than that of the first upper plate 112 and the second upper plate 128. The fold line 135A is offset (concave) relative to the fold line 131A. The fold line 135B is offset (concave) relative to the fold line 131B. In this way, the first end closure plate 134A can be positioned parallel to the first end fold plate 130A at a distance, and therefore the second end closure plate 134B can be positioned parallel to the second end fold plate 130B at a distance.

[0090] The first end closure plate 134A and the second end closure plate 134B may be configured to be disposed between a pair of adjacent end articles B. The imaginary extensions of the fold lines 135A and 135B may intersect with the article receiving openings of the article holding structure RT in the first lower plate 116 and the second lower plate 124, and may intersect with the article receiving aperture A1 in the first upper plate 112 and / or the article receiving aperture A5 in the second upper plate 128. The first keel plate 118 and the third keel plate 122 may abut at least a portion of a corresponding one of the pair of adjacent end articles B, and the first end closure plate 134A and the second end closure plate 134B may form a support between the articles B.

[0091] The shape of the first side plate 114 gradually tapers so as to extend between the first lower plate 116 and the first upper plate 112, and the shape is generally trapezoidal.

[0092] The shape of the second side plate 126 gradually tapers so as to extend between the second lower plate 124 and the second upper plate 128, and its shape is generally trapezoidal.

[0093] The keel structure is constructed with a roughly rectangular cross-section, and the first keel plate 118, the second keel plate 120 and the third keel plate 122 form an inverted "U" shape or channel.

[0094] Each end of the keel structure includes an end closure, wherein a first end closure structure closes a first end of the channel, and a second end closure structure closes a second end of the channel.

[0095] The first end closure structure includes a first end closure plate 134A, which is hingedly connected to the first end of the second keel plate 120 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 135A. A first web plate 136A is hingedly connected to a first side of the first end closure plate 134A via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 137A. The first web plate 136A is hingedly connected to the first end of the first keel plate 118 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 145A. Zigzag lines 145A are arranged converging relative to zigzag lines 137A, and the first web plate 136A is approximately triangular in shape.

[0096] The second web plate 138A is hingedly connected to the second side of the first end closing plate 134A via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 139A. The second web plate 138A is hingedly connected to the first end of the third keel plate 122 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 147A. The zigzag line 147A is arranged converging with respect to the zigzag line 139A, and the shape of the second web plate 138A is approximately triangular.

[0097] The second end closure structure includes a second end closure plate 134B, which is hingedly connected to the second end of the second keel plate 120 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 135B. A third web plate 136B is hingedly connected to the first side of the second end closure plate 134B via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 137B. The third web plate 136B is hingedly connected to the second end of the first keel plate 118 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 145B. Zigzag lines 145B are arranged converging relative to zigzag lines 137B, and the third web plate 136B is approximately triangular in shape.

[0098] The fourth web plate 138B is hingedly connected to the second side of the second end closing plate 134B via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 139B. The fourth web plate 138B is hingedly connected to the second end of the third keel plate 122 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 147B. Zigzag line 147B is arranged converging with zigzag line 139B, and the shape of the fourth web plate 138B is approximately triangular.

[0099] Lines 137A and 137B are collinear with line 119. Lines 139A and 139B are collinear with line 121.

[0100] The first end-sealing plate 134A and the second end-sealing plate 134B close the ends of the channel defined by the keel plates 118, 120, and 122 and keep the channel in an upright position, thereby providing rigidity. The web plates 136A, 136B, 138A, and 138B are folded to face the first keel plate 118 or the third keel plate 122 to which they are hinged, as shown below. Figure 9 and Figure 10 As shown in the figure, the webs 136A, 136B, 138A, and 138B suppress or prevent the accidental deployment of the first end closing plate 134A and the second end closing plate 134B.

[0101] The first end plate 130A and the second end plate 130B are folded relative to the first upper plate 112 to close at least part of the end of the tubular structure defined by the upper plate 112, the first side plate 114, and the second side plate 126.

[0102] Adhesive or other adhesive is applied to the first bridging tab 132A and the second bridging tab 132B, or to corresponding areas of the first lower plate 116 and the second lower plate 124. The first bridging tab 132A and the second bridging tab 132B are folded relative to the first end flap 130A or the second end flap 130B to which they are hinged, such that the first bridging tab 132A and the second bridging tab 132B are in surface contact with the lower or outer surface of the first lower plate 116 and the second lower plate 124, and these bridging tabs are secured to this lower or outer surface. Each of the first bridging tab 132A and the second bridging tab 132B provides a fixing means for securing the first lower plate 116 relative to the second lower plate 124 in a static, fixed, or predefined relationship. In the illustrated embodiment, the first lower plate 116 and the second lower plate 124 are spaced apart, and may be spaced apart by a distance substantially equal to the width P of the second keel plate 120. W The distance is 7. In other embodiments, this distance may be greater than or less than the width P of the second keel plate 120. W 7.

[0103] Applying glue or other adhesive to the upper or outer surface of the second keel plate 120 can make the first upper plate 112 and the second keel plate 120 in surface contact, and the first upper plate can be fixed to the second keel plate.

[0104] Applying glue or other adhesive to the upper or outer surface of the second upper plate 128 allows the first upper plate 112 to be in surface contact with the second upper plate 128, and the first upper plate can be fixed to the second upper plate. Each of the articles B in the group of articles B packaged by the blank 110 is received in a corresponding one of the article receiving openings A1 provided in the first upper plate 112.

[0105] Figure 11 An upright support 190 is shown, and Figure 12 The lower diagram illustrates the end of the carrier 190 and shows a first bridging tab 132A, which secures the first lower / wing plate 116 in a spaced-apart relationship with the second lower / wing plate 124. The first end closure fold 130A and the first bridging tab 132A conceal the first end closure plate 134A and the web plates 136A, 138A from view.

[0106] refer to Figure 13 The blank 210 is shown, which includes a plurality of plates 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, 228, including those for at least partially forming a carrier 290 (see...). Figure 14 ) of the first upper plate 212 of the top wall.

[0107] The first side plate 214 is hingedly connected to the first side of the first upper plate 212 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 213. The first lower plate 216 or the first connecting plate 216 is hingedly connected to the first side plate 214 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 215.

[0108] The blank 210 includes a support or keel structure for increasing the rigidity of the load-bearing device 290. The support or keel structure may take the form of a beam extending longitudinally along the load-bearing device 290.

[0109] The keel structure is hinged to a first lower plate 216, the keel structure including: a first keel plate 218 (also referred to herein as a beam plate), which is hinged to the first lower plate 216 via a hinged connection in the form of a broken line 217; a second keel plate 220, which is hinged to the first keel plate 218 via a hinged connection in the form of a broken line 219; and a third keel plate 222 (also referred to herein as a beam plate), which is hinged to the second keel plate 220 via a hinged connection in the form of a broken line 221.

[0110] The second lower plate 224 or the second connecting plate 224 is hingedly connected to the third keel plate 222 by a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag 223.

[0111] The second side plate 226 is hinged to the second lower plate 224 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 225. The second upper plate 228 is hinged to the second side plate 226 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 227.

[0112] The first upper plate 212, the second upper plate 228, the first side plate 214 and the second side plate 226, the first lower plate 216 and the second lower plate 224, as well as the first keel plate 218 and the third keel plate 222 form a tubular structure.

[0113] The lengths of the first keel plate 218 and the third keel plate 222 are at least partially shorter than the first lower plate 216 or the second lower plate 224 to which they are hinged. Folds 217 and 223 extend only a portion of the length across the first lower plate 216 or the second lower plate 224. Fold 217 terminates at each end with a cut line C3. Cut line C3 extends from fold 217 to a side edge of the first lower plate 216 opposite a hinged edge defined by fold 215, which hinges the first side plate 214 to the first lower plate 216.

[0114] The fold line 222 terminates at each end with a cutting line C4. The cutting line C4 extends from the fold line 223 to the side edge of the second lower plate 224, which is opposite to the hinge edge defined by the fold line 225, which hinges the second side plate 226 to the second lower plate 224.

[0115] In this way, the first keel plate 218 and the third keel plate 222 can be considered to be partially stamped out from the corresponding one of the first lower plate 216 and the second lower plate 224, and the hinged connection (fold lines 217, 223) between the beam plates 218, 222 and their adjacent ones in the first lower plate 216 and the second lower plate 224 is offset relative to the side edge of the adjacent ones in the first lower plate 216 and the second lower plate 224.

[0116] Cutting lines C3 and C4 partially define tabs T3 and T4 extending from a corresponding one of the first lower plate 216 and the second lower plate 224. The first lower plate 216 includes a pair of first tabs T3, the first of which is disposed at a first end of the first lower plate 216, and the second of which is disposed at a second opposite end of the first lower plate 216.

[0117] The second lower plate 224 includes a pair of second tabs T4, the first of which is disposed at a first end of the second lower plate 224, and the second of which is disposed at a second opposite end of the second lower plate 224.

[0118] In the illustrated embodiment, the first keel plate 218 and the third keel plate 222 are substantially trapezoidal in shape. The opposing ends of the first keel plate 218 and the third keel plate 222, defined by paired cutting lines C3, C4, are arranged diverging toward the second keel plate 220. In other embodiments, the keel plates 218, 222 may adopt other shapes, including but not limited to rectangles. The length of the second keel plate 220 may be substantially equal to that of the first lower plate 216 and the second lower plate 224 and / or the first upper plate 212 and the second upper plate 228; this provides a larger surface area for securing the second keel plate 220 to the first upper plate 212. In other embodiments, the length of the second keel plate 220 is shorter than that of the first lower plate 216 and the second lower plate 224 and / or the first upper plate 212 and the second upper plate 228.

[0119] In this manner, a fastening device is provided at each end of the lower plates 216, 224, each fastening device including a first tab T3 and a second tab T4. Cutting lines C3, C4 can be considered to define cutouts in the first keel plate 218 and the third keel plate 222, which at least partially form corresponding receiving openings. The receiving openings may be partially defined by recesses or notches R3, R4 punched out from the first keel plate 218 and the third keel plate 22.

[0120] Each of the first lower plate 216 and the second lower plate 224 of the blank 210 includes at least one article holding structure RT. The blank 210 includes a plurality of article holding structures RT, specifically six article holding structures RT arranged in a 2×3 matrix or array, with a first column of three article holding structures RT disposed in the first lower plate 216 and a second column of three article holding structures RT disposed in the second lower plate 224. Each of the article holding structures RT includes an article receiving opening at least partially defined by engaging tabs or teeth 240, 242, and the article holding structures RT are substantially similar to those in… Figure 1 The items shown and described above retain their structure and will not be described in further detail.

[0121] Figure 14 The end of the carrier 290 formed from the blank 210 is shown, with the first of the pair of first tabs T3 shown as being fixed in an overlapping relationship with the first of the pair of second tabs T4.

[0122] This disclosure provides a carrier 90; 190; 290 for engaging at least one article B. The article carrier 90; 190; 290 includes a pair of spaced-apart plates 12 / 28, 16 / 24; 112, 116 / 124; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, the pair of plates including an upper plate 12 / 28; 112; 212 / 228 and a lower plate 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224.

[0123] Now for reference Figures 15 to 20 This illustrates another alternative embodiment of the present disclosure. In the fourth illustrated embodiment, similar numbers have been used where possible to denote similar parts, except that the prefix "300" has been added to indicate that these features belong to the fourth embodiment.

[0124] Figure 15 The illustration shows a blank 310 comprising a plurality of plates 312, 314, 316, 318, 320, 322, 324, and 326, which are hinged one after another in a linear series via corresponding fold lines 313, 315, 317, 319, 321, 323, and 325. The plurality of plates 312, 314, 316, 318, 320, 322, 324, and 326 include components for at least partially forming a carrier 390 (see Figure 390). Figure 16 The first top plate or upper plate 312 of the top wall of the ).

[0125] The first side plate 314 is hinged to the first side of the first top plate 312 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 313. The bottom plate or lower plate 316 (also referred to herein as the first joining plate 316) is hinged to the first side plate 314 along its first side via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 315.

[0126] The second side plate 318 is hingedly connected to the second opposite side of the base plate 316 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 317.

[0127] The second top plate or upper plate 320 is hingedly connected to the second side plate 318 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 319.

[0128] The blank 10 includes a support or keel structure for increasing the rigidity of the load-bearing device 390. The support or keel structure may take the form of a beam extending longitudinally along the load-bearing device 390.

[0129] The keel structure is hinged to the second top plate or upper plate 320. The keel structure includes a first keel plate 322 (also referred to herein as a leg or beam plate), which is hinged to the second top plate or upper plate 320 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 321. A second keel plate 324 (also referred to herein as a platform or partition plate) is hinged to the first keel plate 322 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 323, and a third keel plate 326 (also referred to herein as a leg or beam plate) is hinged to the second keel plate 324 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 325.

[0130] The plurality of plates 312, 314, 316, 318, 320, 322, 324, 326 include a plurality of main plates 312, 314, 316, 318, 320 forming an internal tubular structure. Each end of the tubular structure is at least partially closed by an end-closure structure.

[0131] A first end-closing structure closes the first end of the tubular structure, and a second end-closing structure closes the second opposite end of the tubular structure. The first end-closing structure includes a plurality of first end-closing plates 328A, 330A, 332A, 334A, 336A, 338A, and 340A. The first end-closing plate 328A is hingedly connected to the first end of the first top plate or upper plate 312 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 327A. The second end-closing plate 334A is hingedly connected to the first end of the bottom plate or lower plate 316 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 335A. The third end-closing plate 340A is hingedly connected to the first end of the second top plate or upper plate 320 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 349A.

[0132] The first end closure plate 328A is connected to the second end closure plate 334A via at least one connecting plate 330A, 332A. In the illustrated embodiment, the first end closure plate 328A is connected to the second end closure plate 334A via a pair of connecting plates 330A, 332A, which include a first anchor plate 330A and a first web plate 332A. The first anchor plate 330A is hingedly connected to the first end of the first side plate 314 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 329A. The first anchor plate 330A is hingedly connected to the first end closure plate 328A via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 343A. The first web plate 332A is hingedly connected to the first anchor plate 330A via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 331A. The first web plate 332A is hingedly connected to the second end closure plate 334A via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 333A.

[0133] An opening A4 may be partially punched out from each of the first anchor plate 330A and the first web plate 332A. An opening A4 is located at a first corner of the base plate or lower plate 316. An opening A4 may interrupt at least one or more of the broken lines 329A, 331A, 333A, 315, and 335A, which would otherwise intersect at the first corner of the base plate or lower plate 316.

[0134] The second end closure plate 334A is connected to the third end closure plate 340A via at least one connecting plate 336A, 338A. In the illustrated embodiment, the second end closure plate 334A is connected to the third end closure plate 340A via a pair of connecting plates 336A, 338A, which include a second anchor plate 338A and a second web plate 336A. The second anchor plate 338A is hingedly connected to the first end of the second side plate 318 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 341A. The second anchor plate 338A is hingedly connected to the third end closure plate 340A via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 345A. The second web plate 336A is hingedly connected to the second anchor plate 338A via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 339A. The second web plate 336A is hingedly connected to the second end closure plate 334A via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 337A.

[0135] Orifice A4 may be partially punched out from each of the second anchor plate 338A and the second web plate 336A. Orifice A4 is located at the first corner of the base plate or lower plate 316. Orifice A4 may interrupt at least one or more of the broken lines 337A, 339A, 341A, 317, and 335A, which would otherwise intersect at the second corner of the base plate or lower plate 316.

[0136] The second end closure structure includes multiple second end closure plates 328B, 330B, 332B, 334B, 336B, 338B, and 340B. These multiple second end closure plates 328B, 330B, 332B, 334B, 336B, 338B, and 340B include a fourth end closure plate 328B, a fifth end closure plate 334B, and a sixth end closure plate 340B, together with a third anchor plate 330B, a fourth anchor plate 338B, a third web plate 332B, and a fourth web plate 336B. The plurality of second end closure plates 328B, 330B, 332B, 334B, 336B, 338B, and 340B are substantially similar in construction and arrangement to the plurality of first end closure plates 328A, 330A, 332A, 334A, 336A, 338A, and 340A, except that they are mirror images of each other and will not be described in further detail.

[0137] The blank 310 includes at least one article engagement structure RT (also referred to as an article holding device RT) for engaging and supporting article B. The illustrated embodiment includes multiple article engagement structures RT, specifically, but not limited to, six article engagement structures RT. In the illustrated embodiment, the article engagement structures RT are arranged in a matrix or array, specifically, but not limited to, a 2×3 matrix or array. Each article engagement structure RT includes an article receiving opening that is partially stamped from the base plate 316 and partially from one of the first side plate 314 and the second side plate 318. The article receiving opening is at least partially defined by an engagement tab 340. The engagement tab 340 is partially stamped from the base plate 316 and hingedly connected thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag 341. The engagement tab 340 is partially stamped from one of the first side plate 314 and the second side plate 318. In this manner, one or both of the article receiving opening and the engaging tab 340 interrupt the hinged connection (fold lines 315, 317) between the base plate 316 and a corresponding one of the first side plate 314 and the second side plate 318. The article receiving opening may be partially defined by an aperture A2, which is punched out from or defined in one of the first side plate 314 and the second side plate 318, and the aperture A2 is disposed adjacent to the engaging tab 340 to define its free edge, which is opposite to the hinged edge defined by the fold line 341 and provides an engaging or supporting edge for suspending the article B therefrom.

[0138] The first top plate 312 may include at least one article receiving opening A1. The illustrated embodiment includes a plurality of article receiving openings A1, specifically, but not limited to, six article receiving openings A1. In the illustrated embodiment, the article receiving openings A1 are arranged in a matrix or array, specifically, but not limited to, a 2×3 matrix or array. The article receiving opening A1, or each article receiving opening A1, is arranged in a manner vertically aligned with a corresponding one of the at least one article engagement structures RT. The article receiving opening A1 is defined by a cutting line, which may be configured such that at least a portion of the periphery of the article receiving opening A1 is fan-shaped or serrated.

[0139] The second top plate 320 may include at least one second or internal article receiving port A3. The illustrated embodiment includes a plurality of second article receiving ports A3, specifically, but not limited to, three second article receiving ports A3. In the illustrated embodiment, the second article receiving ports A3 are arranged in a matrix or array, specifically, but not limited to, a 1×3 matrix or array.

[0140] A second article receiving aperture A3 may extend into the first keel plate 322, thereby interrupting the fold line 321 that hinges the first keel plate 322 to the second top plate 320. The second article receiving aperture A3 may define a "keyhole" shaped cutout. The second article receiving aperture A3 defines a free or engaged edge of the first keel plate 322. The second article receiving aperture A3 may receive a portion of article B; this free or engaged edge may be positioned or engaged below a portion of a flange or other protrusion of article B received by the second article receiving aperture A3. A cutting line C3 may extend from the second article receiving aperture A3 into the first keel plate 322 to define a pair of displaceable or foldable tabs disposed therearound it, each tab providing a portion of the engaged edge of the first keel plate 322 defined by the second article receiving aperture A3.

[0141] The blank 310 includes a plate interlocking device for fixing the first top plate 312 to the bottom plate 316 and at least one of the second keel plate 324.

[0142] The plate interlocking device includes at least one locking tab 360 stamped out of or defined therein from a first top plate 312. The illustrated embodiment includes a pair of locking tabs 360, each stamped out of or defined therein from the first top plate 312. The pair of locking tabs 360 defines an opening in the first top plate 312. The opening may be 'bow tie' shaped. Each of the pair of locking tabs 360 is hinged to the first top plate 312 by a hinge connection in the form of a zigzag line 361. The zigzag line 361 defines opposite ends of the opening in the first top plate 312. The pair of locking tabs 360 are hinged in an opposing manner and separated from each other by a cutting line or divisible line 363. Each of the locking tabs 360 includes a pair of wings 362 along its opposite side edges. Each wing 362 is hingedly connected to the locking tab 360 by a hinge connection in the form of a zigzag line 365. The wing is partially defined by a cutting line 367; the cutting line 367 at least partially defines a hook or pawl for securing the locking tab 360 to the base plate 316. The cutting line 367 at least partially defines the head of the locking tab 360, which passes through an opening in the base plate 316, thereby providing a receiver for the locking tab 360.

[0143] The base plate 316 includes at least one receiver that provides a receiver opening for receiving a portion of a locking tab 360. The receiver opening is at least partially defined by a receiver tab 370. The receiver tab 370 is stamped out of or defined therein from the base plate 316 and is hingedly connected to the base plate 316 by a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag 371. The illustrated embodiment includes a pair of receivers, each including a receiver opening defined by a receiver tab 370. The pair of receiver tabs 370 are hinged in an opposing manner.

[0144] Each receiving tab 370 is hinged in a manner opposite to the locking tab 360 to which it is configured to receive.

[0145] The receiver opening or receiver tab 370 is at least partially defined by a cutting line 373. The cutting line 373 defines a waist or restriction portion in the receiver opening to prevent or inhibit the locking tab 360 from accidentally unfolding or separating from the receiver.

[0146] The second keel plate 324 includes at least one opening. In the illustrated embodiment, the second keel plate 324 includes a pair of openings. Each opening is configured to be vertically aligned with one of the receiving openings in the base plate 316.

[0147] Each opening may be partially stamped out from or partially defined within each of the first keel plate 322 and the third keel plate 326. In this way, the openings interrupt the corresponding hinged connections between the first keel plate 322 and the third keel plate 326 and the second keel plate 324.

[0148] Each opening in the second keel plate 324 may be defined by a tab 380, which is at least partially stamped out of the second keel plate 324 and hingedly connected thereto by a hinged connection defined between opposite ends of a cut line 383. The cut line 383 defines a waist or restraint in the opening to prevent or inhibit the locking tab 360 from accidentally unfolding or separating from the receiver.

[0149] The second keel plate 324 includes a first width or linear dimension W1 defined between: a zigzag line 323 that hinges the first keel plate 322 to the second keel plate 324; and a zigzag line 325 that hinges the third keel plate 326 to the second keel plate 324.

[0150] The base plate 316 includes a first row of article engaging devices RT and a second row of article engaging devices RT. In the illustrated embodiment, each row includes three article engaging devices RT. The article receiving opening of the article engaging device RT in the first row of article engaging devices RT is spaced apart from the article receiving opening of the article engaging device RT in the second row of article engaging devices RT by a second linear dimension W2. The second linear dimension W2 is larger than the first linear dimension W1.

[0151] To stabilize the keel structure and / or hold the second keel plate 324 in a fixed position (in which each opening in the second keel plate 324 is aligned with a corresponding receiving opening in the base plate 316), the second keel plate 324 includes alignment or spacer tabs T2, T3. The second keel plate 324 includes at least one pair of spacer tabs T2, T3; the illustrated embodiment includes two pairs of spacer tabs T2, T3. Each pair of spacer tabs T2, T3 includes: a first spacer tab T2, T3, which is stamped out from the first keel plate 322 and integrally formed with the second keel plate 324; and a second spacer tab T2, T3, which is stamped out from the third keel plate 326 and integrally formed with the second keel plate 324. The first and second spacer tabs T2, T3 are arranged opposite to each other to increase the effective maximum width of the second keel plate 324. Each of the first and second spacer tabs T2, T3 includes a free edge defined by corresponding cutting lines C4, C5. The free edges of the first spacer tabs T2 and T3 are configured such that at their widest position, they are a third linear dimension W3 from the free edges of the second spacer tabs T2 and T3. In this way, the pair of spacer tabs T2 and T3 define the maximum effective width dimension W3 of the second keel plate 324.

[0152] The maximum effective width dimension W3 of the second keel plate 324 is greater than the first width or linear dimension W1, which is defined between the broken line 323 and the broken line 325.

[0153] The maximum effective width dimension W3 of the second keel plate 324 may be approximately equal to or equal to the second linear dimension W2 defined between a pair of opposing receiving openings or between a pair of opposing article engagement devices RT engagement tabs 340.

[0154] In this way, the engagement tabs 340 of a pair of opposing article engagement devices RT provide a reference point or means for positioning the second keel plate 324 therebetween. In embodiments in which the engagement tabs 340 are omitted, the article B received in each of the pair of opposing article engagement devices RT provides a reference point or means for positioning the second keel plate 324 therebetween.

[0155] The first end closure plate 328A may include at least one recess R in its free side edge, which is opposite to the hinge edge defined by the hinge connection (fold line 327A) between the first end closure plate 328A and the first top plate 312. In the illustrated embodiment, the first end closure plate 328A includes a pair of recesses R in its free side edge. When the first end closure plate 328A is folded to face the first top plate 312, the recesses R are configured to receive an article B received in the carrier 390. The fourth end closure plate 328B is similarly configured with a pair of recesses R.

[0156] The third end closure plate 340A may include at least one recess R in its free side edge, which is opposite to the hinge edge defined by the hinge connection (fold line 349A) between the third end closure plate 340A and the second top plate 320. The sixth end closure plate 340B is similarly constructed with a recess R.

[0157] Each of the first end-closing structure and the second end-closing structure includes a fixing device. Each fixing device includes a fixing receiver located in a corresponding one of the first end-closing plate 328A and the fourth end-closing plate 328B, and a locking tab T1 provided by a corresponding one of the second end-closing plate 334A and the fifth end-closing plate 334B. The fixing receiver takes the form of an opening A5, which is punched out from or defined therein by one of the first end-closing plate 328A and the fourth end-closing plate 328B. The tab T1 may be defined at least partially by a pair of cutouts C1. The cutouts C1 may take the form of a recess punched out from the free end edge of the second end-closing plate 334A or the fifth end-closing plate 334B. In the assembled state, the locking tab T1 is received in the opening A5 of the corresponding one of the first end-closing structure and the second end-closing structure.

[0158] Optionally, the blank 310 includes at least one alignment tab for aligning the first top plate 312 relative to the second top plate 320. The illustrated embodiment includes a pair of alignment tabs, each partially defined by a cut line C2 stamped out of or defined therein from the second top plate 320. The cut line C2 interrupts a fold line 319 between the second top plate 320 and the second side plate 318, such that the alignment tab is integral with and extends from the second side plate 318. When the second top plate 320 is folded relative to the second side plate 318, the alignment tab remains protruding from the second top plate 320 to provide an edge or surface against which the first top plate 312 can engage or abut to align the first top plate 312 relative to the second top plate 320.

[0159] The keel structure can be shorter in the longitudinal direction than the tubular structure. The lengths of the first keel plate 322, the second keel plate 324, and the third keel plate 326 can be shorter than the main plates 312, 314, 316, 318, and 320. This allows the keel structure to pass between the second end closure plate 334A and the fourth end closure plate 334B during the assembly of the carrier 390. The second top plate 320 forms an inner top plate through which a portion of each item B in one row of the rows of items B passes. The first top plate 312 is folded to form an outer top plate, which is configured to at least partially overlap the second top plate 320. Each of the item holding devices RT receives the upper portion of the packaged item B. Adhesive or other adhesive treatments may be applied to blank 310 to secure carrier 390 in an assembled state. For example, but not limited to, adhesive may be applied to one or both of the first top plate 312 and the second top plate 320 in the overlapping area to secure the first top plate 312 and the second top plate 320 to each other.

[0160] In the assembled state, a portion of the free side edge of the third keel plate 326 provides a support or engagement edge for suspending or engaging an article B in one of the two rows of articles B received by the carrier 390. The free side edge engages below the flange or other suitable protrusion of the article B.

[0161] The free or engaging edge of the first keel plate 322, defined by the second article receiving opening A3, allows an article B in another row of two rows of articles B received by the carrier 390 to be suspended or engaged with it. The free or engaging edge of the first keel plate 322 engages below the flange or other suitable protrusion of the article B.

[0162] The locking tab 360 of the plate interlocking device can serve as a support between the first keel plate 322 and the third keel plate 326, thereby maintaining the first keel plate 322 and the third keel plate 326 in a spaced-apart relationship. This provides a rigid keel extending longitudinally along the tubular structure between the two rows of articles B. Additionally or alternatively, the support of the keel structure by the locking tab 360 can prevent or inhibit the first keel plate 322 and the third keel plate 326 from disengaging from the articles B. The first keel plate 322 and the third keel plate 326 can be arranged face-to-face and can be in surface contact with the corresponding adjacent engaging tab 340, thereby preventing or inhibiting the engaging tab 240 from disengaging from the articles B.

[0163] When the wing 326 is folded relative to the main body of the locking tab 360, it can increase the strength or stiffness of the locking tab 360, thereby reducing the possibility of the locking tab 360 bending or deforming under load in order to improve the effectiveness of its support function.

[0164] This disclosure provides an article carrier 90; 190; 290, which includes a plurality of main boards, said plurality of main boards including: a pair of spaced-apart boards 12 / 28, 16 / 24; 112, 116 / 124; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, the pair of boards including an upper board 12 / 28; 112; 212 / 228 and a lower board 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224; and a pair of side boards 14, 26; 114; 126; 214, 226, which extend between the upper board 12 / 28; 112; 212 / 228 and the lower board 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224. Each side panel 14, 26; 114, 126; 214, 226 is hinged to the lower panel 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224 via corresponding fold lines 15, 25; 115; 125; 215, 225.

[0165] Each side plate 14, 26; 114, 126; 214, 226 is hinged to the upper plate 12 / 28; 112; 212 / 228 via corresponding fold lines 13, 27; 113; 127; 213, 227.

[0166] The first broken line 13; 113; 213 and the second broken line 27; 127; 227 define a first distance between them, which is equal to the width W1 of the upper plate 12 / 28; 112; 212 / 228 (see...). Figure 6 ).

[0167] The third zigzag line 15; 115; 215 and the fourth zigzag line 25; 125; 225 define a second distance between them, which is equal to the width W2 of the lower plate 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224. The width W2 of the lower plate 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224 is less than the width W1 of the upper plate 12 / 28; 112; 212 / 228.

[0168] exist Figure 1 In this embodiment, the width W1 of the upper plate 12 / 28 is equal to the width P of the first upper plate 12. W Width P of the second upper plate 28 W The sum of 4 minus the overlap distance P between the first upper plate 12 and the second upper plate 28 W O. The width W2 of the lower plate 16 / 24 is equal to the width P of the first lower plate 16. W 2. Width P of the second lower plate 24 W The sum of 3.

[0169] exist Figure 8 In the embodiment, the width of the upper plate 112 / 128 is equal to the width P of the first upper plate 112. W 5. The width of the lower plate 116 / 124 is equal to the width P of the first lower plate 116.W 6. Width P of the second keel plate 120 W 7. Width P of the second lower plate 124 W The sum of 8.

[0170] exist Figure 13 In the embodiment, the width of the upper plate 212 / 228 is equal to the width P of the first upper plate 212. W 1. Width P of the second upper plate 228 W The sum of 4 minus the overlap distance P between the first upper plate 212 and the second upper plate 228 W O. The width of the lower plate 216 / 224 is equal to the width P of the first lower plate 216. W 2 (where the width P of the first lower plate 216) W 2 is defined between fold lines 215 and 217, and does not include the width of the first tab T3) and the width P of the second lower plate 224. W 3 (where the width P of the second lower plate 224) W 3 is limited to the sum of the widths of the second tab T4 between the broken line 223 and the broken line 225.

[0171] Article carriers 90; 190; 290 further include at least one article engagement device RT. The at least one engagement device RT is formed at least in the lower plate 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224.

[0172] This disclosure also provides item carriers 90, 190, and 290, which include multiple motherboards 12 / 28, 16 / 24, 14, 26; 112, 116 / 124, 114, 126; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, 214, 226, and keel structures 18 / 20 / 22; 118 / 120 / 122; 218 / 220 / 222. The plurality of main boards 12 / 28, 16 / 24, 14, 26; 112, 116 / 124, 114, 126; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, 214, 226 include a pair of wing plates 16, 24; 116, 124; 216, 224, which are disposed on opposite sides of the keel structure 18 / 20 / 22; 118 / 120 / 122; 218 / 220 / 222 and at least partially form the lower plate 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224. The keel structure includes: a first leg or beam plate 18; 118; 218, hingedly connected to one of the flanges 16, 24; 116, 124; 216, 224; a second leg or beam plate 22; 122; 222, opposite to the first beam plate 18; 118; 218; and a platform or partition plate 20; 120; 220, extending between the legs or beam plates 18, 20; 118; 120; 218, 220. The second leg or beam plate 22; 122; 222 is hingedly connected to the other of the flanges 16, 24; 116; 124; 216, 224. Wings 16, 24; 116, 124; 216, 224 are connected together by bridging tabs T1, T2, T3, T4, 132A, 132B, which are adhesively fixed to at least one of the wings 16, 24; 116, 124; 216, 224.

[0173] The bridging tabs T1, T2, T3, T4, 132A, and 132B can be arranged in surface contact with the two flanges 16, 24; 116, 124; 216, 224.

[0174] This disclosure provides an article carrier 90; 190; 290, which includes a plurality of main boards 12 / 28, 16 / 24, 14, 26; 112, 116 / 124, 114, 126; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, 214, 226, which form a tubular structure defining a tubular axis. The plurality of main boards 12 / 28, 16 / 24, 14, 26; 112, 116 / 124, 114, 126; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, 214, 226 include a pair of spaced-apart boards 12 / 28, 16 / 24; 112, 116 / 124; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, the pair of boards including an upper board 12 / 28; 112; 212 / 228 and a lower board 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224. At least one of the upper board 12 / 28; 112; 212 / 228 and the lower board 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224 includes at least one article engaging device RT, A1. The upper plates 12 / 28; 112; 212 / 228 have a first width W1, P extending perpendicularly to the tubular axis. W 1 + P W 4 - P W O;P W 5. The lower plates 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224 have a second width W2, P extending perpendicular to the tubular axis. W 2 + P W 3; P W 6 + P W 7 + P W 8, and among them, the first width W1, P W 1 + P W 4 - P W O;P W 5 is greater than the second width W2, P W 2 + P W 3; P W 6 + P W 7 + P W 8.

[0175] First width dimensions W1, P W 1 + P W 4 - P W O;P W 5. Second width dimensions W2, P W 2 + P W 3; P W 6 + P W 7 +P W Each of 8 is measured as the dimension of the connection from the first hinge between a pair of adjacent plates to the second hinge between a second pair of adjacent plates.

[0176] This disclosure also provides item carriers 90, 190, and 290, which include multiple motherboards 12 / 28, 16 / 24, 14, 26; 112, 116 / 124, 114, 126; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, 214, 226, and keel structures 18 / 20 / 22; 118 / 120 / 122; 218 / 220 / 222. The plurality of motherboards 12 / 28, 16 / 24, 14, 26; 112, 116 / 124, 114, 126; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, 214, 226 include a pair of spaced-apart opposing boards 12 / 28, 16 / 24; 112, 116 / 124; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, the pair of opposing boards including an upper board 12 / 28; 112; 212 / 228 and a lower board 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224. The lower plates 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224 include a pair of flanges 16, 24; 116, 124; 216, 224 disposed on opposite sides of the keel structures 18 / 20 / 22; 118 / 120 / 122; 218 / 220 / 222. The keel structure includes a pair of opposing legs or beams 18, 20; 118, 120; 218, 220, and a platform or partition 20; 120; 220 bridging the pair of opposing legs or beams 18, 20; 118; 120; 218, 220. The upper plates 12 / 28; 112; 212 / 228 are provided with at least two article engaging devices A1 disposed on opposite sides of the platform or partition 20; 120; 220.

[0177] The at least two article engagement devices A1 may be sized and positioned such that the opposite side edges of the table or partition 20; 120; 220 come into contact with the article B engaged by the at least two article engagement devices A1.

[0178] This disclosure provides an article carrier 90; 190; 290, which includes a plurality of main boards 12 / 28, 16 / 24, 14, 26; 112, 116 / 124, 114, 126; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, 214, 226, which form a tubular structure defining a tubular axis. The plurality of main boards 12 / 28, 16 / 24, 14, 26; 112, 116 / 124, 114, 126; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, 214, 226 include a pair of spaced-apart opposing boards 12 / 28, 16 / 24; 112, 116 / 124; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, which includes an upper board 12 / 28; 112; 212 / 228 and a lower board 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224. At least the upper board 12 / 28; 112; 212 / 228 includes at least one article engaging device A1, wherein the upper board 12 / 28; 112; 212 / 228 has a first length L1 extending along a tubular axis. The lower plates 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224 have a second length L2 extending along the tubular axis, wherein the first length L1 is less than the second length L2.

[0179] This disclosure also provides an article carrier 90; 190; 290, which includes a plurality of main plates 12 / 28, 16 / 24, 14, 26; 112, 116 / 124, 114, 126; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, 214, 226, and a keel structure 18 / 20 / 22; 118 / 120 / 122; 218 / 220 / 222. The plurality of plates 12 / 28, 16 / 24, 14, 26; 112, 116 / 124, 114, 126; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, 214, 226 form a tubular structure defining a tubular axis. Mainboards 12 / 28, 16 / 24, 14, 26; 112, 116 / 124, 114, 126; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, 214, 226 include a pair of spaced-apart opposing plates 12 / 28, 16 / 24; 112, 116 / 124; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, the pair of opposing plates including an upper plate 12 / 28; 112; 212 / 228 and a lower plate 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224. At least one of the upper plate 12 / 28; 112; 212 / 228 and the lower plate 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224 includes at least one article engaging device A1, RT. The plurality of plates 12 / 28, 16 / 24, 14, 26; 112, 116 / 124, 114, 126; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, 214, 226 further include first end-closing plates 130A, 130B for at least partially closing the ends of the tubular structure. The keel structures 18 / 20 / 22; 118 / 120 / 122; 218 / 220 / 222 are disposed within the tubular structure and include second end-closing plates 134A, 134B, wherein the first end-closing plates 130A, 130B and the second end-closing plates 134A, 134B are spaced apart from each other.

[0180] This disclosure also provides an article carrier 390 for packaging at least one article B and a blank 310 for forming the article carrier 390. The article carrier 390 or blank 310 includes a plurality of main plates 312, 314, 316, 318, 320 for forming a top engagement structure. The plurality of main plates 312, 314, 316, 318, 320 include a base plate 316 and at least one side plate 314, 318 connected to the base plate 316 via first hinge connections 315, 317. The base plate 316 includes at least one engagement device RT for receiving and engaging the article B. The at least one engagement device RT includes an engagement tab 340 connected to the base plate 316 via a second hinge connection 341. The engagement tab 340 is formed partially by the base plate 316 and partially by the at least one side plate 314, 318. When folded about the second hinge connection 341, the engagement tab 340 defines an opening spanning the first hinge connections 315, 317.

[0181] The engaging tab 340 may have a first length dimension L1 extending between the second hinge connection 341 and the distal end of the engaging tab 340. The second hinge connection 341 is positioned at a distance D2 from the first hinge connections 315, 317. The first length dimension L1 is greater than the distance D2.

[0182] This disclosure also provides an article carrier 390 for packaging at least one article B and a blank 310 for forming the article carrier 390. The article carrier 390 or blank 310 includes a plurality of main plates 312, 314, 316, 318, 320 for forming a top engagement structure. The plurality of main plates 312, 314, 316, 318, 320 include a base plate 316 and a bottom plate keel plate 324 arranged in surface contact with the base plate 316. The base plate 316 includes a pair of adjacent engagement devices RT, each engagement device for receiving and engaging the article B. Each of the adjacent engagement devices RT includes an engagement tab 340 connected to the base plate 316 for load-bearing engagement with the article B received in each engagement device RT. The bottom plate keel plate 324 includes a pair of positioning protrusions T2, T3 along its opposite side edges. Positioning protrusions T2 and T3 can be configured to abut against corresponding members of the engagement tabs 340 of adjacent engagement devices RT, thereby facilitating the positioning of the base plate keel plate 324 between adjacent engagement devices RT. Positioning protrusions T2 and T3 can centrally align the base plate keel plate 324 between adjacent engagement devices RT.

[0183] The opposite side edges are defined by a hinged connection (fold lines 323, 325) between a base plate keel plate 324 and a corresponding one of a pair of beam keel plates 322, 326. The base plate keel plate 324 includes a first width dimension W1 defined between the opposite side edges. Positioning protrusions T2, T3 define a second width dimension W2. The second width dimension W2 is greater than the first width dimension W1. The engaging tabs 340 of adjacent engaging devices RT are spaced apart by a second distance W3. The second distance W3 is greater than the first width dimension W1. The second distance W3 may be approximately equal to the second width dimension W2.

[0184] The engagement tabs 340 of each engagement device are connected to the substrate 316 via hinged connections 341. The hinged connections 341 of the engagement tabs 340 of adjacent engagement devices RT are set apart by a second distance W3.

[0185] This disclosure also provides an article carrier 390 for packaging at least one article B and a blank 310 for forming the article carrier 390. The article carrier 390 or blank 310 includes a plurality of main plates 312, 314, 316, 318, 320 forming a tubular structure defining a tubular axis. The plurality of main plates 312, 314, 316, 318, 320 includes a pair of spaced-apart plates, the pair including an upper plate 312 and a lower plate 316. At least one of the upper plate 312 and the lower plate 316 includes at least one article engaging device RT, A1. The upper plate 312 has an upper plate width W3 extending perpendicular to the tubular axis. The lower plate 316 has a lower plate width W4 extending perpendicular to the tubular axis. The upper plate width W3 is greater than the lower plate width W4.

[0186] Each of the upper plate width W3 and the lower plate width W4 is measured as the dimension of the connection from the first hinge between a pair of adjacent main plates to the second hinge between a second pair of adjacent main plates.

[0187] The lower plate 316 is a single continuous plate having a pair of opposite side edges, each side edge extending parallel to the tubular axis, and wherein the width W4 of the lower plate extends between the opposite side edges of the lower plate 316. It will be recognized that, as used herein, orientation references (such as “top,” “bottom,” “base,” “front,” “rear,” “end,” “side,” “inner,” “outer,” “upper,” and “lower”) do not necessarily restrict the corresponding plates to such orientation, but may only be used to distinguish these plates from one another.

[0188] As used herein, the terms “hinged connection” and “folded line” refer to a variety of lines that define the hinged features of a blank, facilitate the folding of multiple portions of the blank relative to each other, or otherwise indicate the optimal plate folding position of the blank. Any reference to “hinged connection” should not be construed as necessarily referring to 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. 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 these curved folded lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may include a pair of arched or bow-shaped folded lines that intersect 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 and arched or bow-shaped zigzag lines that intersect at two points, thus defining a crescent-shaped plate between them.

[0189] As used herein, the term “zigzag line” may refer to one of the following: a notch line, a raised line, a recessed line, a row of perforations, a row of short slits, a row of half-cuts, a single half-cut, an interrupted cutting line, a row of aligned slits, a row of notches, and any combination of the above options.

[0190] It should be understood that hinged connections and fold lines can each comprise elements formed in the substrate of the blank, including perforations, rows of perforations, rows of short slits, rows of half-cuts, single half-cuts, cutting lines, interrupted cutting lines, slits, notches, raised lines, recessed lines, any combination thereof, etc. These elements can be sized and arranged to provide the desired function. For example, a row of perforations can be sized or designed with weakness to define fold lines and / or dividing lines. The row of perforations can be designed to facilitate folding and resist breakage, facilitate folding and facilitate breakage with more force, or facilitate breakage with less force.

[0191] As used herein, the phrase “aligned with” refers to the alignment of two or more elements (such as an opening formed in the first of two overlapping plates and a second opening formed in the second of two overlapping plates) in an upright cardboard box. Those elements aligned with each other may be aligned with each other along the thickness direction of the overlapping plates. For example, when an opening in the first plate is “aligned” with a second opening in a second plate (which is arranged to overlap with the first plate), the edge of the opening may extend along at least a portion of the edge of the second opening and may be aligned with the second opening along the thickness direction of the first and second plates.

Claims

1. An article carrier for packaging at least one article, the article carrier comprising a plurality of main boards for forming a top engagement structure, the plurality of main boards including a base plate and a bottom plate keel plate disposed in face contact with the base plate, the base plate including a pair of adjacent engagement means, each engagement means for receiving and engaging an article, each of the adjacent engagement means including an engagement tab connected to the base plate for load-bearing engagement with an article received in each engagement means, the bottom plate keel plate including a pair of positioning protrusions along its opposite side edges, the positioning protrusions being positioned adjacent to the engagement tabs of the adjacent engagement means respectively to facilitate positioning the bottom plate keel plate between the adjacent engagement means.

2. The article carrier according to claim 1, wherein, The positioning protrusion aligns the base plate keel plate centrally between the adjacent connecting devices.

3. The article carrier according to claim 1, wherein, The opposite side edges are defined by a hinged connection between the bottom plate keel plate and a pair of beam keel plates, the bottom plate keel plate including a first width dimension defined between the opposite side edges, and the positioning protrusion defining a second width dimension, the second width dimension being greater than the first width dimension.

4. The article carrier according to claim 3, wherein, The engagement tabs of the adjacent engagement devices are spaced apart by a second distance, which is greater than the first width dimension.

5. The article carrier according to claim 4, wherein, The second distance can be approximately equal to the second width dimension.

6. The article carrier according to claim 4, wherein, The engagement tabs of each engagement device are connected to the substrate by a hinged connection, and the hinged connections of the engagement tabs of adjacent engagement devices are arranged to be spaced apart by the second distance.

7. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a plurality of main plates forming a tubular structure defining a tubular axis, the plurality of main plates including an upper plate hingedly connected to a side plate and a lower plate hingedly connected to the side plate, at least one of the upper plate and the lower plate including at least one article engaging device, wherein, The upper plate has a first width extending perpendicular to the tubular axis, and the lower plate has a second width extending perpendicular to the tubular axis, wherein the first width is greater than the second width.

8. The blank according to claim 7, wherein, The first width is measured as the dimension of the side edge of the upper plate opposite to the first hinge connection, which is connected from the first hinge between the upper plate and the side plate, and wherein the second width is measured as the dimension of the side edge of the lower plate opposite to the second hinge connection, which is connected from the second hinge between the side plate and the lower plate.

9. The blank according to claim 7, wherein, The lower plate is a single continuous plate having a pair of opposite side edges, each side edge extending parallel to the tubular axis, and wherein the second width extends between the opposite side edges of the lower plate.

10. The blank according to claim 7, wherein, The plurality of mainboards include a substrate and at least one side plate connected to the substrate via a first hinge connection. The substrate includes at least one engagement device for receiving and engaging articles. The at least one engagement device includes an engagement tab connected to the substrate via a second hinge connection, wherein the engagement tab is formed partly by the substrate and partly by the at least one side plate, and when folded about the second hinge connection, the engagement tab defines an opening across the first hinge connection.

11. The blank according to claim 10, wherein, The engaging tab has a first length dimension extending between the second hinge connection and the distal end of the engaging tab, the second hinge connection being configured at a distance from the first hinge connection, and wherein the first length dimension is greater than the distance.

12. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a plurality of main plates for forming a top engagement structure, the plurality of main plates including a base plate and a bottom plate keel plate for positioning in face contact with the base plate, the base plate including a pair of adjacent engagement devices, each engagement device for receiving and engaging an article, each of the adjacent engagement devices including an engagement tab connected to the base plate for load-bearing engagement with an article received in each engagement device, the bottom plate keel plate including a pair of positioning protrusions for abutting on the engagement tabs of the adjacent engagement devices respectively to facilitate positioning the bottom plate keel plate between the adjacent engagement devices, the positioning protrusions being disposed along opposite side edges of the bottom plate keel plate.

13. The blank according to claim 12, wherein, The opposite side edges are defined by a hinged connection between a corresponding one of the base plate keel plate and the beam keel plate, the base plate keel plate including a first width dimension defined between the opposite side edges, and the positioning protrusion defining a second width dimension, the second width dimension being greater than the first width dimension.

14. The blank according to claim 13, wherein, The engagement tabs of the adjacent engagement devices are spaced apart by a second distance, which is greater than the first width dimension.

15. The blank according to claim 14, wherein, The second distance can be approximately equal to the second width dimension.

16. The blank according to claim 13, wherein, The pair of positioning protrusions are formed by the corresponding one in the beam keel plate.

17. The blank according to claim 13, wherein, Each of the hinged connections between the corresponding one of the base plate keel plate and the beam keel plate is interrupted by the corresponding one of the positioning protrusions.

18. The article carrier according to claim 3, wherein, The pair of positioning protrusions are formed by the corresponding one of the pair of beam keel plates.

19. The article carrier according to claim 3, wherein, Each of the hinged connections between the base plate keel plate and the corresponding one of the pair of beam keel plates is interrupted by the corresponding one of the positioning protrusions.

20. The article carrier according to claim 3, wherein, The beam keel plate is engaged with an article received in the pair of adjacent engagement devices.

Images