Apparatus for forming an article carrier

Abstract

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to an apparatus (1010; 1110) for applying at least one carrier blank or article carrier (90A, 90B) to a group of articles and a method of applying at least one article carrier (90A, 90B). The apparatus (1010; 1110) comprises a top wall (1016; 1116) and a pair of side walls (1006, 1008; 1106, 1108) depending downwardly from the top wall (1016; 1116) to form a passage. The apparatus (1010; 1110) is adapted to apply at least one carrier blank or article carrier (90A, 90B) to a first row of a plurality of rows of articles (B). Each of the side walls (1006, 1008; 1106, 1108) comprises a spreading device for spreading apart a space between a first row of the plurality of rows of articles (B) and an adjacent second row of the plurality of rows of articles (B) when applying the at least one carrier blank or article carrier (90A, 90B) to the first row of articles (B).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to apparatus for applying one or more carrier blanks or article carriers to a group of articles, and to a method for applying one or more carrier blanks or article carriers to a group of articles to form one or more packages. More specifically, but not exclusively, this invention relates to apparatus for forming a top-engaged article carrier. Background Technology

[0002] In the packaging industry, it is known to provide item carriers or cardboard boxes for carrying multiple items. Cardboard boxes are well known in the prior art and are useful for enabling consumers to transport, store, and access a set of items for consumption. For cost and environmental reasons, such cardboard boxes or carriers need to be formed from as little material as possible, and waste of materials used in their formation should be minimized. Further considerations include the strength of the cardboard box and its suitability for holding and transporting heavy items. Furthermore, it is desirable that the contents of the cardboard box remain secure within the box.

[0003] One object of the present invention is to provide a device for applying an article carrier to a primary product container, which is simple, efficient and safe.

[0004] This invention seeks to provide improvements in the field of packaging cardboard boxes (typically formed from cardboard or the like). Summary of the Invention

[0005] A first aspect of the invention provides an apparatus for applying at least one carrier blank or article carrier to a row of articles. The apparatus includes a top wall and a pair of side walls that hang downwards from the top wall to form a channel. The apparatus is adapted to apply at least one carrier blank or article carrier to a first row of articles, which may optionally include a subset of one or more articles. The first row may optionally be one of multiple rows of articles. The articles in the multiple rows may optionally be arranged in rows and columns to form a group of articles closely positioned adjacent to each other. Each side wall includes a spreading device for widening the space between the first row of articles and a second adjacent row (if any) in the same group of multiple rows of articles.

[0006] The channel may optionally be closed at its first end by a first end wall. The channel may be open at its second end. The channel may optionally include a second end wall at its opposite second end. The second end wall may have an opening therein for inserting at least one carrier into the device.

[0007] Optionally, the spreading device includes a wedge-shaped portion formed in one of the sidewalls.

[0008] Optionally, the spreading device includes at least one spreading surface that is oriented obliquely relative to the applied direction.

[0009] Optionally, the application direction is approximately perpendicular to the top wall.

[0010] Optionally, the at least one spreading surface is arranged to be oriented obliquely relative to the top wall.

[0011] Optionally, the spreading device is configured to push the items in the second adjacent row, at least at their upper ends, away from the items in the first row.

[0012] Optionally, the lower ends of the items in the group are positioned in the grouping device such that the upper ends of the items in the first row and the upper ends of the items in the second adjacent row can be expanded outward by the application of movement of the device.

[0013] Optionally, the grouping device is a packaging pallet for transporting items arranged in one or more rows.

[0014] Optionally, the spreading device includes at least one external groove in the outer surface of at least one of the sidewalls for receiving corresponding items in the second adjacent row.

[0015] Optionally, the spreading device includes at least one external groove in the spreading surface for receiving corresponding items in the second adjacent row.

[0016] A second aspect of the invention provides an apparatus for applying at least one carrier blank or article carrier to a group of articles. The apparatus includes a top wall and a pair of side walls that hang downwards from the top wall to form a channel. Each side wall includes an abutting crossbar for supporting opposite sides of at least one carrier blank or article carrier, and a first guide surface disposed between the crossbar and the top wall. The first guide surface is oriented obliquely or skewed relative to the top wall. Each side wall includes at least one internal recess defined by an internal recess wall that at least partially interrupts the first guide surface of the side wall and extends from the top wall toward the crossbar of the side wall.

[0017] Optionally, the at least one internal groove in one of the sidewalls and the at least one internal groove in the other sidewall are arranged opposite to each other to define a receiving portion for receiving a part of an article.

[0018] Optionally, each sidewall further includes a second guide surface extending between a crossbar of the sidewall and a first guide surface of the sidewall, the second guide surface being inclined relative to the first guide surface such that an obtuse angle is defined between the first and second guide surfaces.

[0019] Optionally, the second guide surface is at least partially interrupted by at least one internal groove, such that the groove wall extends between the second guide surface and the top wall.

[0020] Optionally, the device includes at least one stop for preventing at least one carrier blank or article carrier from moving along the crossbar in one direction.

[0021] Optionally, the at least one stop includes a ramp extending from the support surface of the crossbar of at least one of the sidewalls, the ramp providing a ramp surface inclined relative to the support surface.

[0022] Optionally, the at least one stop includes an end wall extending from the support surface to provide an end stop for engaging the edge of at least one carrier blank or article carrier to limit the travel of the at least one carrier blank or article carrier.

[0023] Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the accompanying drawings and the specific embodiments discussed below.

[0024] Within the scope of this application, it is contemplated or intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features, and alternatives set forth in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims, and / or in the following description and drawings may be considered or employed independently or in any combination thereof.

[0025] Features or elements described in connection with or relating to one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments unless feature incompatibility exists. One or more features or elements from one embodiment may be incorporated into or combined with any other embodiment disclosed herein, and features or elements extracted from said one embodiment may be included outside of or replace one or more features or elements of said other embodiments.

[0026] One feature or combination of features of the embodiments disclosed herein may be independently extracted from other features of the embodiment. Alternatively, a feature or combination of features of an embodiment may be omitted from the embodiment. Attached Figure Description

[0027] 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 a blank for forming an article carrier according to the first embodiment; Figure 2 It is by Figure 1 A perspective view of the article carrier formed from the blank; Figure 3 It is by Figure 2A perspective view of the carrier and the package formed by multiple items; Figure 4A It is used to form a pair of connections, such as Figure 2 and Figure 4B A top plan view of a pair of connected blanks for the carrier shown; Figure 4B It is by Figure 4A The diagram shows a top view of a partially formed flat article carrier consisting of a pair of connected blanks; Figure 5 This is a top plan view of a blank for forming an article carrier according to the second embodiment; Figure 6 It is by Figure 5 A perspective view of the article carrier formed from the blank; Figure 7 This is a perspective view of a package consisting of a carrier of 6 and multiple items; Figure 8 This is a perspective view of an apparatus for applying at least one article carrier to a primary product container according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 9A Figure 8 The end view of the device; Figure 9B It is a carrier for partially shaped flat items. Figure 8 The end view of the device; Figure 10 yes Figure 8 Longitudinal cross-sectional view of the equipment; Figure 11 It is shown Figure 8 The equipment is in the stage of applying a pair of article carriers to a primary product container; Figure 12 It is shown Figure 8 The device is in the stage of applying a pair of article carriers to a primary product container; End perspective view. Figure 13 This is a perspective view of an apparatus for applying at least one article carrier to a primary product container according to another embodiment of the present disclosure; Figure 14 yes Figure 13 The end view of the device; Figure 15A yes Figure 13 The equipment along Figure 13 The transverse cross-section of line II; Figure 15B yes Figure 13 The transverse cross-sectional view of the equipment along line II-II; and Figure 16 yes Figure 13The longitudinal cross-sectional view of the equipment. Detailed Implementation

[0028] This document discloses detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of apparatus, methods, packaging, blanks, and cartons. It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary ways in which certain aspects of the invention can be implemented and do not represent an exhaustive list of all ways in which the invention can be specifically implemented. As used herein, the term "exemplary" is widely used to refer to embodiments that are illustrations, samples, models, or patterns. In practice, it will be understood that the apparatus, methods, packaging, blanks, and cartons described herein can be implemented in various alternative forms. The drawings are not necessarily drawn to scale, and some features may be enlarged or minimized to show detail of particular parts. To avoid obscuring this disclosure, well-known parts, materials, or methods are not necessarily described in great detail. Any specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting, but merely as the basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to employ the invention in various ways.

[0029] Reference Figure 1 It shows a device capable of forming cardboard boxes or article carriers 90 (such as...). Figure 2 and Figure 3 The plan view of the carrier blank 10 (shown) is provided. This cardboard box or carrier is used to contain and carry a set of primary products, such as, but not limited to, glass jars, hereinafter referred to as Article B. The blank 10 forms a top-jointed secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package.

[0030] The replacement blank 110 in Figure 5 The diagram in the middle shows how it forms a shape like this. Figure 6 and Figure 7 The carrier shown.

[0031] In the embodiments described in detail herein, for the non-limiting purpose of illustrating various features of the invention, the terms "cardboard box" and "carrier" refer to containers 90 and 190 used for joining and carrying articles B (such as primary 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 conical and / or cylindrical. Other exemplary containers include bottles (e.g., metal, glass, or plastic bottles), cans (e.g., aluminum cans), tinware, bags, boxes, etc.

[0032] Blanks 10 and 110 are formed from suitable substrate sheets. It should be understood that, as used herein, the term "suitable substrate" includes all forms of foldable sheet materials, such as cardboard, corrugated cardboard, linerboard, plastics, combinations thereof, etc. It should be recognized that one or more blanks may be used where appropriate, for example, to provide the carrier structure described in more detail below.

[0033] The packaging structure or cardboard box 90; 190 described herein can be formed from a sheet material such as cardboard, which may be made of or coated with a material that increases its strength. An example of such a sheet material is the tear-resistant NATRALOCK® cardboard manufactured by WestRock. It should be noted that the tear-resistant material may be provided in more than one layer to help improve the tear resistance of the packaging. Typically, one surface of the sheet material may have different properties than the other surface. For example, the outer surface of the sheet material facing 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 inner surface of the sheet material may be provided with a coating, layer, treatment, or other preparation to provide one or more of the following properties: tear resistance, good adhesion, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties.

[0034] In the illustrated embodiment, blanks 10 and 110 are configured to form cardboard boxes or carriers 90 and 190 for an exemplary arrangement of packaging exemplary articles. Figure 1 In the illustrated embodiment, the arrangement is an m×n matrix or array with one row (m=1) and two columns (n=2); a row of two items is provided, and the items are 35-ounce (approximately 992-gram) glass jars. Figure 5 In the illustrated embodiment, the arrangement is an m×n matrix or array with one row (m=1) and three columns (n=3); a row of three items is provided, and the items are 24-ounce (approximately 680-gram) cans. These cans can be formed from suitable materials, such as, but not limited to, glass, aluminum, or PET (polyethylene terephthalate).

[0035] Blank 10; 110 may be configured to form a carrier for packaging other types, quantities and sizes of articles, and / or for packaging articles in different arrangements or configurations, such as, but not limited to, fully enclosed cardboard boxes or wrap-around carriers, the articles being cups, bags, jars or cans.

[0036] Turning Figure 1 The illustration shows a method for forming a cardboard box 90 according to a first embodiment (see [reference]). Figure 2 and 3 The blank 10 comprises a plurality of plates 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 arranged in a linear series, which are hinged one after another by fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23.

[0037] Multiple plates 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, and 24 form a top joining clamp. The blank 10 includes multiple outer plates 16, 18, and 20, including a first outer plate or shoulder plate 16. A top plate 18 is hinged to the first outer plate 16 along its first side edge via a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 17. A second outer plate 20 is hinged to the top plate 18 along its second opposite side edge via a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 19.

[0038] The blank 10 includes a plurality of inner plates or reinforcing plates 12, 14, 22, 24, including a first inner plate 14 hingedly connected to a first outer plate 16 via a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 15. A first inner top plate 12 is hingedly connected to the first inner plate 14 via a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 13. A second inner plate 22 is hingedly connected to a second outer plate 20 via a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 21. A second inner top plate 24 is hingedly connected to the second inner plate 22 via a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 23.

[0039] The blank 10 includes an article engagement structure comprising at least one external article receiving opening A2 located in each of the first and second outer side plates 16, 20, and at least one internal article receiving opening A1 located in each of the first and second inner side plates 14, 22. The illustrated embodiment includes a pair of external article receiving openings A2 located in each of the first and second outer side plates 16, 20, and a pair of internal article receiving openings A1 located in each of the first and second inner side plates 14, 22. Each external article receiving opening A2 is in the form of an aperture A2 that is punched out from or defined therein in at least one corresponding of the first and second outer side plates 16, 20. In an alternative embodiment, the aperture A2 may be partially punched out from the top plate 18.

[0040] The internal article receiving opening A1 is in the form of an orifice A1, which is punched out from or defined therein from one of the first and second inner side plates 14, 22, and as shown in the illustrated embodiment, it can also be defined in or punched out from one of the first and second inner top plates 12, 24 that are hingedly connected to or from one of the first and second inner side plates 14, 22.

[0041] An external article receiving opening A2 interrupts one of the hinged connection or fold lines 17, 19 between the top plate 18 and the first or second outer side plates 16, 20. The top plate 18 includes at least one tab 33 extending outward from a side edge of the top plate 18 defined by the hinged connection or fold lines 17, 19. The illustrated embodiment includes four tabs 33. These tabs 33 are stamped from material that would otherwise form part of one of the first and second outer side plates 16, 20.

[0042] The internal article receiving opening A1 interrupts the hinged connection or fold line 13, 23 between one of the first and second inner top plates 12, 24 and the corresponding one of the first and second inner side plates 14, 22 to which it is hinged.

[0043] Each of the first and second inner top plates 12, 24 includes at least one tab 32 extending outward from a side edge of the inner top plate 12, 24, which is defined by a hinged connection or fold line 13, 23 between the inner top plate 12, 24 and a corresponding one of the first and second inner side plates 14, 22 to which the inner top plate is hingedly connected. In the illustrated embodiment, each inner top plate 12, 24 includes two tabs 32, 32. These tabs 32 are stamped from material that would originally form part of one of the first and second inner side plates 14, 22.

[0044] Each of the first and second outer side panels 16, 20 includes at least one engaging member 26. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first and second outer side panels 16, 20 includes two engaging members 26. Each engaging member 26 is partially defined by one of the external article receiving openings A2; the external article receiving opening A2 defines a first or upper engaging edge E1 of the engaging member 26. The shape of the first or upper engaging edge E1 may be linear. Each engaging member 26 is partially defined by a pair of fold lines 29, 31 defined in the first or second outer side panel 16, 20. The pair of fold lines 29, 31 may be arranged diverging relative to each other and may be arranged to diverge toward the external article receiving opening A2. The engaging member 26 is partially defined by a cutting line 25 that interrupts the corresponding fold lines 15, 21 between the inner side panels 14, 22 and the outer side panels 16, 20. The cutting line 25 defines a lower edge E2 of the engaging member 26, which is substantially opposite to the first or upper engaging edge E1. The lower edge E2 may form a second engaging edge. The cutting line 25 may be non-linear and may include at least two linear portions arranged divergently relative to each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the cutting line 25 includes three contiguous linear portions, each linear portion being arranged divergently relative to its adjacent portion. In other embodiments, the cutting line 25 may include one or more bending elements.

[0045] Cutting line 25 defines the lower free edge of one of the inner side panels 14, 22. One of the lower free edges and the internal article receiving opening A1 defines a second engaging member 28 between them, which may reinforce or strengthen one of the engaging members 26 to form a double-layer structure. The second engaging member 28 includes a third or inner upper engaging edge E3 defined by a portion of the internal article receiving opening A1. The second engaging member 28 may engage with article B at a location different from where the first engaging member 26 engages with article B. For example, but not limited to, the first engaging member 26 may engage a cover or closure C of article B, the cover or closure C defining a protrusion or flange, the first engaging member 26 engaging the cover C below the protrusion or flange to thereby support or suspend article B. The second engaging member 28 may engage a neck portion of article B, the neck portion of which may include a second protrusion or flange. Article B may be suspended or supported by the third or inner upper engaging edge E3. The shape of the third or inner upper engaging edge E3 may be curved or non-linear.

[0046] The second flange provided by item B may be disposed radially inside the flange provided by cover C. The second flange may be disposed at a height lower than the height of the flange provided by cover C.

[0047] The engagement member 26 may include a release cutout 27 that extends upward from the cut line 25 or toward the first engagement edge E1.

[0048] The blank 10 includes a handle structure comprising two pairs of handle tabs 40A and 40B disposed on opposite sides of the top plate 18. The first pair of tabs 40A and 40B are either stamped out of or contained within the first inner and outer side plates 14 and 16. The second pair of tabs 40A and 40B are either stamped out of or contained within the second inner and outer side plates 20 and 22.

[0049] The first tab 40A of the first pair of tabs 40A and 40B is either stamped out of or contained within the first inner side plate 14. The second tab 40B of the first pair of tabs 40A and 40B is either stamped out of or contained within the first outer side plate 16. The first tab 40A of the first pair of tabs 40A and 40B is hingedly connected to the second tab 40B of the first pair of tabs 40A and 40B via a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 41. Fold line 41 is collinear with fold line 15, which hinges the first inner side plate 14 to the first outer side plate 16. The first tab 40A of the first pair of tabs 40A and 40B is hingedly connected to the first inner side plate 14 via a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 43A. The second tab 40B of the first pair of tabs 40A and 40B is hingedly connected to the first outer side plate 16 via a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 43B.

[0050] The first tab 40A of the first pair of tabs 40A, 40B is partially defined by a pair of cutting lines 45A, 47A, which are defined in the first inner side plate 14 and each extends between the fold line 43A and the fold line 41. The pair of cutting lines 45A, 47A can be arranged divergently relative to each other and can diverge toward the fold line 41.

[0051] The second tab 40B of the first pair of tabs 40A, 40B is partially defined by a pair of cutting lines 45B, 47B, which are defined within the first outer side plate 16 and each extends between fold line 43B and fold line 41. The cutting lines 45B, 47B can be arranged divergently relative to each other and can diverge towards fold line 41. The shapes of the first and second tabs 40A, 40B can be substantially trapezoidal. The second tab 40B is a mirror image of the first tab 40A with respect to fold line 41. When the first inner side plate 14 is folded to form a face contact with the first outer side plate 16, fold line 43A aligns with fold line 43B.

[0052] Cutting lines 45A and 47A can be interrupted by connecting grooves that, for example, hold the first tab in the plane of the first inner plate 14 during assembly and transport, and can be broken or cut off when the handle is unfolded.

[0053] The first tab 40A of the second pair of tabs 40A and 40B is either stamped out of or confined within the second inner side plate 22. The second tab 40B of the second pair of tabs 40A and 40B is either stamped out of or confined within the second outer side plate 20. The first tab 40A of the second pair of tabs 40A and 40B is hingedly connected to the second tab 40B of the second pair of tabs 40A and 40B via a hinge in the form of a zigzag line 41. Zigzag line 41 is collinear with zigzag line 21 that hinges the second inner side plate 22 to the second outer side plate 20. The first tab 40A of the second pair of tabs 40A and 40B is hingedly connected to the second inner side plate 22 via a zigzag line hinge. The second tab 40B of the second pair of tabs 40A and 40B is hingedly connected to the second outer side plate 20 via a zigzag line hinge.

[0054] The first tab 40A of the second pair of tabs 40A and 40B is partially defined by a pair of cutting lines defined in the second inner side plate 22, and its arrangement is similar to that of the tabs 40A and 40B of the first pair.

[0055] The second tab 40A of the second pair of tabs 40A and 40B is partially defined by a pair of cutting lines 45B and 47B defined in the first outer side plate 16, and is arranged similarly to those of the first pair of tabs 40A and 40B. The tabs 40A and 40B may be substantially trapezoidal in shape. The second tab 40B is a mirror image of the first tab 40A about the fold line 41.

[0056] Each of the first and second pairs of tabs 40A and 40B is capable of inward displacement into a gap or void between two adjacent items B. Each of the first and second pairs of tabs 40A and 40B provides a handle edge defined by fold lines 43A and 43B, which the user can engage with. The double-layer construction of the handle tabs 40A and 40B can improve the strength of the handle structure, the comfort of the handle structure, or both.

[0057] Turning to construct the article carrier 90 from the blank 10, glue G or other adhesive treatment can be applied to the first inner side plate 14 and the second inner side plate 22. In an alternative embodiment, adhesive treatment can be applied to corresponding areas of the first and second outer side plates 16, 20.

[0058] The first inner side plate 14, together with the first inner top plate 12, is folded around the fold line 15 so that the first inner side plate 14 and the first outer side plate 16 are in surface contact. The first inner side plate 14 can be fixed to the first outer side plate 16. The first inner top plate 12 and a portion of the top plate 18 are in a face-to-face relationship.

[0059] The second inner side plate 22, together with the second inner top plate 24, is folded around the fold line 21 so that the second inner side plate 22 and the second outer side plate 20 are in surface contact. The second inner side plate 22 can be fixed to the second outer side plate 20. The second inner top plate 24 forms a face-to-face relationship with a part of the top plate 18.

[0060] The article carrier 90 is thus shaped into a flat, folded form and can be shipped or otherwise distributed. The carrier 90 can be erected by lowering the top plate 18 along with the first and second inner top plates 12, 24 relative to a group of articles B. The first inner and outer outer plates 14, 16 are folded around the first side of the group of articles B, around fold lines 13, 17, to engage the articles B. Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, a portion of each item B is received in one of the item receiving openings A1 / A2.

[0061] The second inner and outer plates 22, 20 are folded around the second opposite sides of the group of articles B, around fold lines 23, 19, to join articles B. A portion of each article B is received in one of the article receiving openings A1 / A2.

[0062] Figure 4A A pair of connected blanks 1 are shown. The first blank 10A is easily or divisibly connected to the second blank 10B via a breakable or weakening line F1. The breakable line F1 divisibly connects the top plate 18 of the first blank 10A to the top plate 18 of the second blank 10B. The breakable line F1 divisibly connects the first inner top plate 12 of the first blank 10A to the first inner top plate 12 of the second blank 10B. The breakable line F1 divisibly connects the first inner side plate 14 of the first blank 10A to the first inner side plate 14 of the second blank 10B.

[0063] A breakable line F1 divideably connects the second inner top plate 24 of the first blank 10A to the second inner top plate 24 of the second blank 10B. The breakable line F1 also divideably connects the second inner side plate 22 of the first blank 10A to the second inner side plate 22 of the second blank 10B. The breakable line F1 is interrupted by a pair of orifices A5 and A6. The first orifice A5 at least partially separates the first inner side plate 14 of the first blank 10A from the first inner side plate 14 of the second blank 10B; the first orifice A5 at least partially separates the first outer side plate 16 of the first blank 10A from the first outer side plate 16 of the second blank 10B. The second orifice A6 at least partially separates the second inner side plate 22 of the first blank 10A from the second inner side plate 22 of the second blank 10B; the second orifice A6 at least partially separates the second outer side plate 20 of the first blank 10A from the second outer side plate 20 of the second blank 10B.

[0064] Each blank 10A, 10B and Figure 1 The blanks shown and described herein are essentially the same and will not be described in detail again.

[0065] The connected blanks 1 are pre-folded and pre-glued before being applied to a row of articles B. The pre-folding and pre-gluing process can be achieved as follows: The inner top plate 12 and inner side plate 14 are folded around fold line 15 to form a surface contact arrangement with the top plate 18. The inner top plate 24 and inner side plate 22 are folded around fold line 21 to form a surface contact arrangement with the top plate 18. The inner top plates 12 and 24 can be adhesively fixed to the top plate 18. Alternatively, or optionally, the inner side plates 14 and 22 are adhesively fixed to the corresponding outer side plates 16 and 20. Figure 4B As shown, this pre-folding process produces a pair 2 of connections between partially assembled flat article carriers 90A and 90B.

[0066] Now for reference Figures 5 to 7 Further additional embodiments of this disclosure are shown therein. Figure 5 A method for forming a cardboard box or carrier 190 according to a second embodiment is shown (see Figure 6 and Figure 7The blank 110. In the second embodiment shown, similar numbers have been used as much as possible to represent similar parts, although the prefix "100" has been added to indicate that these features belong to the second embodiment. This alternative embodiment is similar to Figure 1 The embodiments up to Figure 4 share many common features, therefore they will only be described in more detail. Figure 1 The differences are as shown in the embodiment in Figure 4.

[0067] The blank 110 includes multiple plates 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, and 124, which are arranged in a linear series and are hinged one after another by broken lines 113, 115, 117, 119, 121, and 123.

[0068] The plurality of plates 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, and 124 form a top joining clamp. The blank 110 includes a plurality of outer plates 116, 118, and 120, including a first outer plate or shoulder plate 116. A top plate 118 is hinged to the first outer plate 116 along its first side edge via a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 117. A second outer plate 120 is hinged to the top plate 118 along its opposite second side edge via a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 119.

[0069] The blank 110 includes a plurality of inner plates or reinforcing plates 112, 114, 122, and 124, including a first inner plate 114 hingedly connected to a first outer plate 116 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 115. A first inner top plate 112 is hingedly connected to the first inner plate 114 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 113. A second inner plate 122 is hingedly connected to a second outer plate 120 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 121. A second inner top plate 124 is hingedly connected to the second inner plate 122 via a hinged connection in the form of a zigzag line 123.

[0070] The blank 110 includes an article-joining structure comprising at least one external article-receiving opening A2 in each of the first and second outer side plates 116, 120, and at least one internal article-receiving opening A1, A3 in each of the first and second inner side plates 114, 122. The illustrated embodiment includes three external article-receiving openings A2 in each of the first and second outer side plates 116, 120, and three internal article-receiving openings A1, A3 in each of the first and second inner side plates 114, 122. Each external article-receiving opening A2 is in the form of an aperture A2, which is either punched out from or defined therein in at least one of the first and second outer side plates 116, 120. In an alternative embodiment, the aperture A2 may be partially punched out from the top plate 118.

[0071] The external article receiving opening A2 interrupts one of the hinged connection or fold lines 117, 119 between the top plate 118 and the first or second outer side plates 116, 120. The top plate 118 includes at least one tab extending outward from a side edge defined by the hinged connection or fold line 117, 119. The illustrated embodiment includes six tabs. The tabs are stamped from a material that would otherwise form part of one of the first or second outer side plates 116, 120. The tabs are defined by a portion of the opening A2 of the external article receiving opening A2.

[0072] The internal article receiving openings A1 and A3 include a pair of distal internal article receiving openings A3 and a middle or central internal article receiving opening A1. The middle or central internal article receiving opening A1 takes the form of an orifice A1, which is punched out or defined therein by a corresponding one of the first and second inner side plates 114 and 122, and as shown in the illustrated embodiment, it can also be defined in or punched out of a corresponding one of the first and second inner top plates 112 and 124, which are hingedly connected to one of the first and second inner side plates 114 and 122.

[0073] Each of the two inner article receiving openings A3 at the very end takes the form of an aperture A3, which is either punched out from or confined therein by a corresponding one of the first and second inner side plates 114, 122.

[0074] The internal article receiving openings A1 and A3 interrupt the hinged connection or fold line 113 and 123 between one of the first and second inner top plates 112 and 124 and the corresponding one of the first and second inner side plates 114 and 122 to which they are hingedly connected.

[0075] Each of the first and second inner top plates 112, 124 includes a tab extending outward from a side edge of the inner top plate 112, 124, defined by a hinged connection or fold line 117, 119 between the inner top plate 112, 124 and a corresponding one of the first and second inner side plates 114, 122 to which it is hinged. The tab is stamped from a material that would otherwise form part of one of the first and second inner side plates 114, 122. The tab is defined by a portion of an opening A1 of a centrally located internal article receiving opening A1. The opening A3 of each of the pair of outermost internal article receiving openings A3 includes a linear edge adjacent to or interrupting one of the fold lines 113, 123, and does not define a tab extending from the corresponding inner top plate 112, 124.

[0076] The blank 110 includes a handle structure comprising four pairs of handle tabs 140A, 140B disposed on opposite sides of the top plate 118. Each pair of handle tabs 140A, 140B is substantially identical in construction, and will be described with reference to a pair of handle tabs 140A, 140B in the first inner and outer plates 114, 116.

[0077] A pair of handle tabs 140A and 140B are stamped out of or contained within the first inner and outer side plates 114 and 116. The first tab 140A of the pair of handle tabs 140A and 140B is stamped out of or contained within the first inner side plate 114. The second tab 140B of the pair of handle tabs 140A and 140B is stamped out of or contained within the first outer side plate 116. The first tab 140A of the pair of handle tabs 140A and 140B is hingedly connected to the second tab 140B of the pair of handle tabs 140A and 140B via a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 141. The fold line 141 is collinear with the fold line 115 that hinges the first inner side plate 114 to the first outer side plate 116. The first tab 140A of the pair of handle tabs 140A and 140B is hingedly connected to the first inner side plate 114 via a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 143A. Fold line 143A extends from fold line 115 and is oriented obliquely relative to fold line 115, while... Figure 1 In one embodiment, the fold line 43A is parallel to and spaced apart from the fold line 15. The second tab 140B of the pair of handle tabs 140A and 140B is hingedly connected to the first outer side plate 116 via a hinged connection in the form of the fold line 143B. The fold line 143B extends from the fold line 115 and is oriented obliquely relative to the fold line 115, while... Figure 1 In one embodiment, the broken line 43B is parallel to the broken line 15 and spaced apart from the broken line 15.

[0078] The first tab 40A of the pair of handle tabs 140A and 140B is partially defined by a cutting line 145A, which is defined in the first inner side plate 114 and extends between fold lines 143A and 141.

[0079] The second tab 140A of the pair of handle tabs 140A and 140B is partially defined by a cutting line 145B, which is defined in the first outer plate 116 and extends between fold lines 143B and fold lines 141.

[0080] The first and second tabs 140A and 140B can be substantially triangular in shape. The second tab 140B is a mirror image of the first tab 140A about the fold line 141. When the first inner plate 114 is folded to be in surface contact with the first outer plate 116, the fold line 143A is aligned with the fold line 143B.

[0081] The cutting line 145A can be interrupted by the connecting groove portion, for example, during assembly and transportation, the connecting groove portion holds the first tab 140A within the plane of the first inner side plate 114, and can be disconnected or cut off when the handle is unfolded.

[0082] The first inner and outer side plates 114 and 116 include a second pair of handle tabs disposed on opposite sides of the centrally located article receiving openings A1 and A2. The second pair of handle tabs are mirror images of the first pair of handle tabs 140A and 140B about an imaginary line that bisects the blank 110 laterally.

[0083] The first pair of handle tabs 140A and 140B are configured to fold opposite to the second pair of handle tabs.

[0084] The first pair of handle tabs 140A, 140B are configured to fold toward the first end of the carrier 190 or blank 110, and the second pair of handle tabs are configured to fold toward the opposite second end of the carrier 190 or blank 110.

[0085] Before blank 110 is applied to a row of articles B, blank 110 is pre-folded and pre-glued. The pre-folding and pre-gluing process can be achieved by folding the inner top plate 112 and inner side plate 114 around fold line 115 to form a surface contact arrangement with the top plate 118. The inner top plate 124 and inner side plate 122 are folded around fold line 121 to form a surface contact arrangement with the top plate 118. The inner top plates 112 and 124 can be adhesively fixed to the top plate 18. Alternatively, or optionally, the inner side plates 114 and 122 are adhesively fixed to the corresponding outer side plates 116 and 120. This pre-folding process produces a partially assembled flat article carrier, which is not shown in the accompanying drawings but is in a flat-folded, folded form from which it is erected. Figure 6 A fully assembled carrier.

[0086] Figure 8 A device or fixture 1010 is shown for applying a flat article carrier to a group of articles B. Examples of such article carriers include connected flat carriers 90A and 90B and a flat carrier formed from a blank 110. Figure 8 The device 1010 shown is configured such that, when the removable separation device CB is attached to the device 1010, it is used to, for example... Figure 4B The connected pair of article carriers 90A and 90B apply to a row of four articles B, while when the separating device CB is removed from it, it can be used to apply a flat carrier formed by the blank 110 to a row of three articles B. It will be appreciated that the device 1010 can be readily modified for use according to… Figures 1 to 7The embodiments shown and described herein apply one or more flat item carriers.

[0087] In particular, Figure 8 The device 1010 shown is configured to apply by Figure 4A The connected blanks 1 shown form a pair of connected article carriers 2. The device 1010 may include a separating device or cutting blade CB for separating the connected article carriers 90A, 90B. In other embodiments, the separating device CB may be omitted, and the device 1010 may be used to apply separation to the pair of article carriers, or the connected article carriers 90A, 90B may remain connected to each other and may be separated in a later stage of packaging or processing.

[0088] Device 1010 includes a top wall 1016, and a pair of opposing side walls 1006, 1008 that hang downward from the top wall 1016, defining a channel together with the top wall 1016. A first end wall 1022 hangs downward from the top wall 1016 and extends between the pair of opposing side walls 1006, 1008 to close a first end of the channel. A second end E of the channel may be open or may be closed by the other end wall.

[0089] The outer surface (or at least a portion thereof) of the first sidewall 1006 is arranged divergently relative to the outer surface (or at least a portion thereof) of the second sidewall 1008. In this way, each of the outer surfaces or portions defines or forms a wedge. Each wedge can be inserted between a pair of adjacent articles B to force the pair of adjacent articles B to separate from each other.

[0090] The portion of each of the opposing sidewalls 1006, 1008 near the top wall 1016 can be arranged divergently relative to each other. The proximal portions of the sidewalls 1006, 1008 are arranged to diverge away from the top wall 1016.

[0091] The proximal portions of the pair of opposing sidewalls 1006, 1008 are arranged converging relative to each other. The distal portions of the pair of opposing sidewalls 1006, 1008 define free edges, which may be shell-shaped or otherwise shaped to facilitate the insertion of the sidewalls between adjacent items B.

[0092] Each of the sidewalls 1006 and 1008 may include protrusions H1 and H2 extending outward from their outer surface (see Figure 9). Each protrusion H1 and H2 may be in the form of a rib and may be used by the user as a handle. The protrusions H1 and H2 are positioned close to the top wall 1016 and may be considered as extensions thereto.

[0093] The first end wall 1022 may include a rib-shaped protrusion H3, and a similar protrusion H4 may extend outward from the second end of the top wall 1016. The protrusions H3 and H4 can be used by the user as handles.

[0094] The outer surfaces of sidewalls 1006, 1008 may include at least one recess 1005 (also referred to herein as an external recess 1015). In the illustrated embodiment, each sidewall 1006, 1008 includes a plurality of recesses 1005, specifically, but not limited to, four recesses 1005. The recesses 1005 may be arranged to receive part of article B when the device 1010 is in use.

[0095] The top wall 1016 of the device 1010 may include at least one orifice extending through it. Figure 11 The top wall 1016 of the illustrated embodiment includes a pair of openings, although in other embodiments more or fewer openings may be provided in the top wall 1016. These openings provide viewing windows and facilitate access to the top of the package formed by applying the article carrier 90 to a set of articles B, and can be used to assist in separating the device 1010 from the package.

[0096] Each of the sidewalls 1006 and 1008 includes a crossbar 1019 extending inward from its inner surface. In this way, the crossbar 1019 provides a pair of support surfaces for supporting the blank 10 or the partially assembled article carrier 90 before being applied to a set of articles B.

[0097] The crossbar 1019 is spaced apart from the inner surface of the top wall 1016 so that they are at different heights. The cutting edge or leading edge of the separating edge is arranged at a height between the height of the crossbar 1019 and the height of the inner surface of the top wall 1016, and its shape can be non-linear or arcuate.

[0098] Each sidewall 1006, 1008 includes an inner surface that provides an outer or second guide surface 1014 extending from the crossbar 1019 toward the top wall 1016. The second guide surface 1014 is inclined relative to the inner surface of the top wall 1016.

[0099] The second guide surface 1014 is inclined relative to the support surface of the crossbar 1019.

[0100] The inner surface of each of the sidewalls 1006 and 1008 includes at least one groove 1012 (also referred to herein as an internal groove 1012).

[0101] The inner surface of the first sidewall 1006 includes at least one groove 1012, and the inner surface of the second sidewall 1008 includes a corresponding groove 1012 arranged opposite to the at least one groove 1012 in the first sidewall 1006. The paired opposing grooves 1012 provide a receiving portion for receiving the upper portion of the article B.

[0102] The inner surface of each of the sidewalls 1006 and 1008 may include a first guide surface 1011 extending from the second guide surface 1014 to the top wall 1016. The first guide surface 1011 is inclined relative to the inner surface of the top wall 1016.

[0103] The second guide surface 1014 is inclined relative to the support surface of the crossbar 1019.

[0104] The second guide surface 1014 is inclined relative to the first guide surface 1011. That is, the first and second guide surfaces 1011 and 1014 are inclined at different angles relative to the inner surface of the top wall 1016.

[0105] The groove 1012 is defined in the first guide surface 1011 and provides an inner groove wall 1015 that spans the first guide surface 1011 and extends between the top wall 1016 and the second guide surface 1014.

[0106] The inner surfaces of each sidewall 1006, 1008 taper inward toward each other from the crossbar 1019 as they extend toward their respective free edges. In this way, the device 1010 traps the blank 10 or the partially assembled article carrier 90 between the support surface of the crossbar 1019 and the inner surfaces of the sidewalls 1006, 1008 extending therefrom, thereby preventing the blank 10 or the partially assembled article carrier 90 from falling out of the channel when inverted before being applied to the article B.

[0107] Optionally, the second guide surface 1014 may include a recessed region 1013, such as Figure 10 As best shown, it is disposed adjacent to each groove 1012 in the second guide surface.

[0108] Figure 11 and Figure 12 It is shown that using device 1010 will be as follows Figure 4B The partially assembled flat article carriers 90A and 90B shown are connected to a pair 2 and applied to a set of articles B to form two packages for use.

[0109] A set of items B is loaded into a packaging pallet PT or other suitable means for holding items B in rows and columns or in a matrix or array. In the illustrated embodiment, a set of twelve items B are loaded into the packaging pallet PT in a 3×4 arrangement. Pairs 2 of the connected flat carriers 90A, 90B are inserted into device 1010 through the open ends of the channels (see [link]). Figure 8 ). Figure 9B The diagram illustrates the second 90B in a flat carrier that is inserted into and receives a connection inside device 1010. Figure 11 and Figure 12 The diagram illustrates the application of connected flat carriers 90A and 90B to a row of four items B in a group of items B loaded onto a packaging pallet PT (also referred to herein as the "target row" or "first row"). Figure 11 In one embodiment, it is formed by two subsets of each of the two items B. More specifically, Figure 11 The illustration shows a device 1010, in which connected carriers 90A and 90B are already loaded, placed on top of the first or target row of articles B. Figure 11 In one embodiment, the first row of items B is the middle row of three rows of items placed on the shipping pallet PT. After positioning the device 1010 over the first row of items B, each sidewall 1006, 1008 of the device 1010 is pushed between the first row and the second adjacent row of the three rows within the pallet PT. Figure 11 In this arrangement, the second row can be either the outermost or the last row of item B in the tray PT. Device 1010 has the effect of forcing item B in the second adjacent row away from item B in the first row. Each external recess 1015 of each sidewall 1006, 1008 can receive a portion of item B in the outermost or second adjacent row.

[0110] It will be understood that when used to apply the item carriers 90A, 90B to each of the items B in the outer or second adjacent row, the device 1010 provides a similar effect of spreading the items in the second adjacent row.

[0111] As device 1010 is pushed downwards, item carriers 90A and 90B fold around and secure to the first row of items B. Separation device CB cuts off the fragile connection F1 between the item carriers 90A and 90B.

[0112] The method of applying article carriers 90A and 90B to article B includes inserting article carriers 90A and 90B into device 1010. This can be achieved by inserting article carriers 90A and 90B through the open end of the channel, sliding article carriers 90A and 90B along the support surface of crossbar 1019, and positioning article carriers 90A and 90B to align with the corresponding receiving sections of device 1010, such as... Figure 9B As shown. Figure 10 As shown in the optimal configuration, device 1010 has two receiving sections separated by a separating device CB. The dimensions and construction of each receiving section are designed to fit snugly to receive a corresponding one of the carriers 90A and 90B.

[0113] When set in the receiving section of the device, such as Figure 9BAs shown, the partially assembled flat item carriers 90A, 90B, in connection pair 2, are initially supported by crossbars 1019 along their opposing outer side panels 16, 20. With the connected carriers 90A, 90B received internally, the device 1010 can be inverted, placed on top of the first row of items B, and then lowered relative to the first row of items B. When the device 1010 is inverted or flipped to present... Figure 11 When the orientation is such that the far side portion of the converging arrangement of the opposite sidewalls 1006 and 1008 captures the carriers 90A and 90B along their opposite side edges, the connected article carriers 90A and 90B remain inside the device 1010, close to the crossbar 1019.

[0114] When the upper portion of item B in the first row is received in device 1010, the opposing outer plates 16, 20 (and inner plates 14, 22, if present) of the connected flat carriers 90A, 90B rotate inward about corresponding hinges 17, 19 (13, 23, if present), while being pressed inward by the outer ridges 1018 of device 1010. Each outer ridge 1018 is disposed between a corresponding crossbar 1019 and a corresponding second or outer guide surface 1014. The ridges 1018, crossbars 1019, and guide surfaces 1014 are located between the crossbars 1019 and the guide surfaces 1014. Figure 8 , 9A The best example shown is in 9B.

[0115] When the outer side plates 16 and 20 and the corresponding outer guide surfaces 1014 enter into plane-to-plane contact, the tops of the first row of articles B are received in the grooves 1012 and contact the groove walls 1015.

[0116] As the upper portion (e.g., a cover) of the first row of articles B slides along the recessed wall 1015, the device 1010 descends further relative to article B. The opposing outer plates 16, 20 rotate further inward relative to the top plate 18 about their respective hinges 17, 19, while being pressed inward by the inner ridges 1017. Each inner ridge 1017 is disposed between a corresponding outer or second guide surface 1014 and a corresponding inner or first guide surface 1011.

[0117] The first and second engaging members 26, 28 of the article carriers 90A, 90B are allowed to yield outward into the space provided by corresponding recesses 1012 in the interior or first guide surface 1011. The recesses 1012 interrupt the corresponding inner ridges 1017 to form spaced-apart segments of the ridges 1017, which press inward against corresponding portions of the outer side plates 16, 20 of the carriers 90A, 90B.

[0118] When the first and second connecting members 26, 28 of the article carriers 90A, 90B are pressed onto the first row of articles B, the top plate 18 (12, 24, if present) of each article carrier 90A, 90B acts as a support to maintain a constant distance between portions of the outer plates 16, 20 on opposite sides of each article receiving opening A1, A2, and to keep the first and second connecting members 26, 28 under tension.

[0119] Figure 12 The top plate 18 of the article carriers 90A and 90B and the inner surface 1020 of the top wall 1016 of the device 1010 are shown. Figure 8 , 9A (As shown in 9B) the abutment phase. In this phase, portions of the outer panels 16, 20 on opposite sides of each article receiving opening A1, A2 come into face-to-face contact with the corresponding one of the inner guide surfaces 1011. Almost simultaneously, the first and second engaging members 26, 28 of the article carrier 90 pass over the cover or closure C of the first row of articles B and engage on the underside of the cover or closure C.

[0120] Now for reference Figures 13 to 16 Further embodiments of this disclosure are shown. Figure 13 An alternative device 1110 for applying at least one flat article carrier to a row of articles B is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, similar reference numerals have been used as much as possible to indicate similar parts, although the prefix "1100" has been added to indicate that these features belong to this alternative embodiment. This alternative embodiment is similar to... Figures 8 to 12 The embodiments share many common features, therefore they will only be described in more detail with Figures 8 to 12 The differences between the embodiments shown.

[0121] Figure 13 A device or fixture 1110 is shown for applying at least one flat article carrier (such as connected flat article carriers 90A, 90B and a flat article carrier formed from blank 110) to a row of articles B. The device 1110 includes a second end wall in the form of a beam 1124 opposite a first end wall 1122. The first end wall 1122 completely closes the first end of a channel formed by a top wall 1116 and opposing side walls 1106, 1108. The second end wall 1124 includes an opening OP through which a partially formed flat article carrier may be inserted. The shape of the opening OP may be tapered so that its dimension at the outer surface is larger than its dimension at the inner surface, as shown in... Figure 14 and 16 As shown in the best example, this can help guide the blank 10 or the carrier 90 into the device 1110.

[0122] Each of the inner surfaces of the sidewalls 1106 and 1108 includes a crossbar 1119 extending inward toward the interior of the channel and an outer or second guide surface 1114 extending from the crossbar 1119 toward the top wall 1116. A portion FL of the crossbar 1119 and the outer guide surface 1114 are flared, chamfered, or otherwise shaped at their ends near the second end wall 1124 to facilitate insertion of the blank 10 or the carrier 90 into the device 1110.

[0123] Each crossbar 1119 may include a stop or latch DT for preventing or stopping the removal of the blank 10 or carrier 90 from the device 1110. The stop DT includes a bevel or inclined surface RP extending from a support surface of the crossbar 1119. The beveled surface RP faces the second wall 1124, and an opening OP is located in the second wall 1124. The stop DT includes an end wall ES arranged substantially perpendicular to the support surface of the crossbar 1119. The end wall ES faces the first wall 1122 and is located away from the second wall 1124, and the opening OP is located in the second wall 1124.

[0124] Figure 4B It shows the result of Figure 4A The pair of blanks 1 shown are connected to form a connecting pair 2 of carriers 90A and 90B. The connecting pair 2 of carriers 90A and 90B is sometimes referred to as "a pair of connected partially assembled carriers 90A and 90B". Orifices A5 and A6 form grooves in the opposite side edges of the pair of connected partially assembled carriers 90A and 90B.

[0125] When the first flat carrier 90A is inserted into the device 1110, it slides on the inclined surface RP and passes over the stop DT; the stop DT is received in a groove between the connected pair of flat carriers 90A and 90B. The end wall ES engages with the edge of the first carrier 90A, thereby preventing the connected carriers 90A and 90B from being withdrawn from the device 1110.

[0126] exist Figure 13 In the embodiment shown, the protrusions or handles H1 and H2 in the sidewalls 1106 and 1108 have been omitted.

[0127] Figure 15A It shows along Figure 13 Cross-sectional view taken from centerline II. Figure 15B It shows along Figure 13 Cross-sectional view taken from centerline II-II. Figure 15A and 15B The first and second guide surfaces 1111 and 1114 in the sidewalls 1106 and 1108, as well as the internal and external grooves 1112 and 1105, are shown. Figure 15AThe inner groove wall 1115 of the inner groove 1112 is clearly shown to extend from the top wall 1116 to the outer or second guide surface 1114, and the inner groove 1112 interrupts the first guide surface 1011.

[0128] This disclosure provides an apparatus 1010; 1110 for applying at least one article carrier 90A, 90B to a row of articles B. The apparatus 1010; 1110 includes a top wall 1016; 1116 and a pair of side walls 1006, 1008; 1106, 1108 suspended from the top wall 1016; 1116 to form a channel. The apparatus 1010; 1110 may be adapted to apply at least one article carrier 90; 190 to a first row of articles, the first row comprising a subset of one or more articles B. The first row of articles may be one of a plurality of rows of articles closely arranged in rows and columns on a grouping device such as a shipping pallet. Each of the side walls 1006, 1008; 1106, 1108 includes a spreading or expanding means for temporarily expanding the space between the first row of articles B and a second adjacent row of the plurality of rows of articles B.

[0129] The spreading device can take the form of a wedge-shaped portion or plate formed in one of the side walls 1006, 1008; 1106, 1108. Figure 8-16 In some embodiments, the spreading device includes sidewalls 1006, 1008; and a distal portion of each of 1106, 1108. As used herein, "distal portion" refers to the portion of the respective sidewall immediately adjacent to its free edge. Reference Figure 15A An example of the spreading device is best illustrated, wherein, for illustrative purposes only, imaginary line III-III indicates the boundary between the distal portion and the proximal portion of each sidewall 1106, 1108. Figure 15A As seen, the distal portions of sidewalls 1106 and 1108 are shown as wedge-shaped portions of sidewalls 1106 and 1108 above III-III. Figure 15A As shown, each distal portion or wedge-shaped portion has at least one spreading surface S1 along its outer surface, the spreading surface S1 being arranged obliquely relative to the insertion or application direction D1 (see also...). Figure 12 ).

[0130] The insertion or application direction D1 can be approximately perpendicular to the inner surface of the top wall 1016; 1116 or the top plate surface 1020; 1120.

[0131] The at least one spreading surface S1 is arranged to be oriented obliquely relative to the inner surfaces 1020 and 1120 of the top walls 1016 and 1116.

[0132] The spreading device is configured to push item B (at least its upper end) in the adjacent second row away from the corresponding item B in the first row.

[0133] The lower ends of the multiple rows of items B can be positioned in a grouping device PT to form a cluster of items, such that the upper ends of items B in the first row and the upper ends of items B in the adjacent second row are expanded. The grouping device PT can be in the form of a packaging pallet for transporting the group of items.

[0134] The spreading device may also include at least one external groove 1005; 1105 in the outer surface of at least one of the sidewalls 1006, 1008; 1106, 1108 for receiving a corresponding article B in the adjacent second row. Figure 15A The at least one external groove 1105 is shown extending from a point on the outer surface S1 of each distal portion above the corresponding crossbar 1119 to a point on the outer surface of the same distal portion below the corresponding crossbar 119. The external groove 1105 on each distal portion, as well as the distal portion itself, is located on the outside of the corresponding crossbar 1119, such that the flat article carriers 90A, 90B can be correctly positioned on the article B in the target row without interfering with the article B in the adjacent second row during the application of the article carriers 90A, 90B.

[0135] This disclosure also provides an apparatus 1010; 1110 for applying at least one article carrier 90A, 90B to a group of articles. The apparatus 1010; 1110 includes a top wall 1016; 1116 and a pair of side walls 1006, 1008; 1106, 1108 that hang downwards from the top wall 1016; 1116 to form a channel. Each of the side walls 1006, 1008; 1106, 1108 includes an abutment crossbar 1019; 1119 for supporting the opposite side of the at least one article carrier 90A, 90B, and a first guide surface 1011; 1111 disposed between the crossbar 1019; 1119 and the top wall 1016; 1116. The first guide surface 1011; 1111 is oriented obliquely or skewed relative to the top wall 1016; 1116. Each of the sidewalls 1006, 1008; 1106, 1108 includes at least one internal groove 1012; 1112 defined by an internal groove wall 1015; 1115 that at least partially interrupts the first guide surface 1011; 1111 of the sidewall and extends from the top wall 1016; 1116 toward the crossbar 1019; 1119 of the sidewall.

[0136] The at least one internal groove 1012 1112 of one of the sidewalls 1006, 1008; 1106, 1108 is arranged opposite to the at least one internal groove 1012 1112 of the other sidewall 1006, 1008; 1106, 1108 to define a receiving portion for receiving a part of article B.

[0137] Each of the sidewalls 1006, 1008; 1106, 1108 may further include a second guide surface 1014; 1114 extending between the crossbar 1019; 1119 of the sidewall and the adjacent first guide surface 1011; 1111. The second guide surface 1014; 1114 is oriented obliquely or skewed relative to the adjacent first guide surface 1011; 1111, such that an obtuse angle is defined between the adjacent first and second guide surfaces 1011, 1014; 1111, 1114.

[0138] The second guide surface 1014; 1114 is at least partially interrupted by the at least one internal groove 1012; 1112, such that the groove wall 1015; 1115 extends between the second guide surface 1014; 1114 and the top wall 1016; 1116.

[0139] Devices 1010 and 1110 may include at least one stop DT for preventing at least one article carrier 90A, 90B from moving in one direction along crossbars 1019 and 1119. The at least one stop DT may include a ramp extending from a support surface of at least one of the crossbars 1019 and 1119, the ramp providing a sloped surface inclined relative to the support surface. The at least one stop DT may include an end wall extending from the support surface to provide an end stop for engaging an edge of at least one article carrier 90A, 90B, thereby restricting the movement of the at least one carrier 90A, 90B.

[0140] It will be understood that various modifications can be made within the scope of this invention. For example, the size and shape of the plates, walls, and openings can be adjusted to accommodate articles of different sizes or shapes.

[0141] It is also understood that, as used herein, the terms "flat carrier" or "partially assembled carrier" include an undisturbed blank used to form an article carrier. For example, such an undisturbed blank may be a single-layer structure that may include multiple plates, but excludes plates used to form inner layers (such as an inner top plate or inner side plate). See reference. Figure 1 To describe it more specifically, the folded blank may consist of a top plate 18 and a pair of first and second side plates 16, 20, for forming a single-layer top-jointed article carrier. This single-layer carrier does not require pre-folding or pre-gluing before being loaded into device 1010 or 1110.

[0142] It will be recognized that directional references, such as “top,” “bottom,” “base,” “front,” “rear,” “end,” “side,” “inner,” “outer,” “upper,” and “lower,” as used herein, do not necessarily restrict the corresponding plates to such orientations, but are merely used to distinguish these plates from one another.

[0143] As used herein, the terms "hinged connection" and "folded line" refer to any line that defines a hinge feature of a blank, facilitates the folding of portions of the blank relative to each other, or otherwise indicates the optimal folding position of the blank. Any reference to "hinged connection" should not be construed as necessarily referring to only a single folded line; in fact, a hinged connection can be formed by two or more folded lines, each of which can be straight / linear or curved / curved. When linear folded lines form a hinged connection, they can be arranged parallel to each other or at a slight angle relative to each other. When curved folded lines form a hinged connection, they can intersect each other to define a shaped plate within the area enclosed by the curved folded lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may include a pair of arched or bow-shaped folded lines 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 broken lines and arched or bow-shaped broken lines that intersect at two points, thereby defining a crescent-shaped plate between them.

[0144] As used herein, the term "zigzag line" may refer to one of the following: scribing line, embossed line, recessed line, perforated line, short slit line, half-cut line, single half-cut, discontinuous cut line, aligned slit line, scribing line, and any combination of the foregoing options.

[0145] As used herein, the term "dividing line" may refer to one of the following: perforation line, short slit line, half-cut line, single half-cut, single cut, discontinuous cutting line, aligned slit line, and any combination of the foregoing options.

[0146] It should be understood that articulated joints and fold lines can each be elements formed in the substrate of the blank, including perforations, perforation lines, short slit lines, half-cut lines, single half-cuts, cut lines, discontinuous cut lines, slits, scratches, and any combination thereof. Elements can be sized and arranged to provide the desired function. For example, perforation lines can be sized or designed to have a weakening effect to define a fold line or dividing line or both. Perforation lines can be designed to facilitate folding and resist breakage, facilitating folding and breakage with greater force, or facilitating breakage with less force.

[0147] As used herein, the term "alignment" refers to the alignment of two or more elements in an upright cardboard box, such as an opening formed in the first of two overlapping boards and a second opening formed in the second of two overlapping boards. Those elements aligned with each other can be aligned with each other in the thickness direction of the overlapping boards. For example, when an opening in a first board is "aligned" with a second opening in a second board (which is arranged to overlap with the first board), the edge of the opening can extend along at least a portion of the edge of the second opening and can be aligned with the second opening in the thickness direction of both the first and second boards.

Claims

1. An apparatus for applying at least one carrier blank or article carrier to a first row of articles, the apparatus comprising a top wall and a pair of side walls hanging downwards from the top wall to form a channel, wherein, Each of the sidewalls includes a spreading device for expanding the space between the first row of items and the adjacent second row of items.

2. The device according to claim 1, wherein, The spreading device includes a wedge-shaped portion formed in at least one of the sidewalls.

3. The device according to claim 1, wherein, The spreading device includes at least one spreading surface, which is arranged to be oriented obliquely relative to the applied direction.

4. The device according to claim 3, wherein, The application direction is approximately perpendicular to the top wall.

5. The device according to claim 3, wherein, The at least one spreading surface is arranged to be oriented at an angle relative to the top wall.

6. The device according to claim 1, wherein, The spreading device is configured to push, at least at its upper end, an item in the adjacent second row away from the corresponding item in the first row.

7. The device according to claim 1, wherein, The lower ends of the items in the first and second rows are positioned in the grouping device, thereby widening the upper ends of the items in the first and second rows.

8. The device according to claim 7, wherein, The grouping device is a packaging pallet used for transporting the items in the first and second rows.

9. The device according to claim 1, wherein, The spreading device includes at least one external groove in the outer surface of at least one of the sidewalls for receiving corresponding items in the adjacent second row.

10. The device according to claim 3, wherein, The spreading device includes at least one external groove in the at least one spreading surface for receiving corresponding items in the adjacent second row.

11. An apparatus for applying at least one carrier blank or article carrier to a group of articles, the apparatus comprising a top wall and a pair of side walls hanging downward from the top wall to form a channel, each of the side walls including an abutment crossbar for supporting opposite sides of at least one carrier blank or article carrier and a first guide surface disposed between the crossbar and the top wall, the first guide surface being inclined relative to the top wall, wherein, Each of the sidewalls includes at least one internal groove defined by an internal groove wall that at least partially interrupts the first guide surface of each of the sidewalls and extends from the top wall toward the crossbar of each of the sidewalls.

12. The device according to claim 11, wherein, The at least one internal groove of one sidewall and the at least one internal groove of the other sidewall are arranged opposite to each other to define a receiving portion for receiving a part of an article.

13. The device according to claim 11, wherein, Each of the sidewalls also includes a second guide surface extending between the crossbar and the first guide surface, the second guide surface being inclined relative to the first guide surface such that an obtuse angle is defined between the first and second guide surfaces.

14. The device according to claim 13, wherein, The second guide surface is at least partially interrupted by the at least one internal groove, such that the groove wall extends between the second guide surface and the top wall.

15. The device according to claim 11, wherein, The device includes a stop for preventing at least one carrier blank or article carrier from moving in one direction along the crossbar.

16. The device according to claim 15, wherein, The stop includes a ramp extending from the support surface of the crossbar, the ramp providing a ramp surface inclined relative to the support surface.

17. The device according to claim 15, wherein, The stop includes an end wall extending from the support surface to provide an end block for engaging the edge of at least one carrier blank or article carrier to limit movement of the at least one carrier blank or article carrier.

18. The device according to claim 13, wherein, Each of the sidewalls also includes a pressing ridge for abutting against at least one carrier blank or article carrier, the pressing ridge being defined between a first guide surface and a second guide surface.

19. The device according to claim 1, wherein, The spreading device includes the distal portion of at least one of the sidewalls.

20. The device according to claim 19, wherein, The distal portion includes the portion of the free edge of at least one of the sidewalls immediately adjacent to the free edge of at least one of the sidewalls.

21. The device according to claim 20, wherein, The distal portion includes a wedge-shaped portion of at least one of the sidewalls, the wedge-shaped portion having at least one spreading surface along its outer surface, the spreading surface being arranged to be oriented obliquely relative to the application direction of the device.

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