Article holder and its draft

Abstract

Item carrier and its blank. Aspects of the disclosure relate to a package, an item carrier for packaging a plurality of items, and a blank for forming the item carrier. The item carrier can package at least one item with a recess. The item carrier comprises a plurality of panels intended to form a tubular structure to surround at least one item; an item retainer for engaging a recess in said at least one item. The item retainer can prevent the item from being dislodged from at least one of the opposite open ends of the tubular structure in an assembled item carrier. The tubular structure defines a tubular axis. The item retainer comprises a flap hinged to a first panel along a first fold line. The first fold line extends at an acute angle to the tubular axis.The acute angle may not exceed 50 degrees. Figure for the abbreviation: Fig. 1.

Description

Title of the invention: Article holder and its blank Technical field

[0001] The present invention relates to article carriers and blanks for forming them. More specifically, but not exclusively, the invention relates to an article retaining structure including an engagement device for securing one end of an article. Aspects of the invention relate to a wrap-around article carrier having a carrying handle. CONTEXT

[0002] In the field of packaging, it is known that there are cartons or carriers intended to carry multiple items. Cartons are well known in the art and are useful for enabling consumers to transport, store and access a group of consumer items. For cost and environmental reasons, these cartons or carriers must be made of a minimum of materials and cause the least possible waste of the materials from which they are made. Consideration must also be given to the mechanical strength of the carton and its ability to contain and transport heavy items. It is desirable that the carton include a carrying handle strong enough to support the load of the carton and its contents.

[0003] It is desirable that the articles contained in a carton be securely held and protected during transport. It is also desirable that the articles within a carton be easily accessible.

[0004] The present invention aims to provide an improvement in the field of cartons, typically formed from cardboard or the like. SUMMARY

[0005] A first aspect of the invention relates to a blank for forming an article carrier. The article carrier may package at least one article having a recess. The blank comprises a plurality of panels for forming a tubular structure for surrounding at least one article. The blank comprises an article retainer for engaging a recess of one of the at least one article. The article retainer may prevent dislodgement of the article from at least one of the opposed open ends of the tubular structure in a mounted article carrier. The tubular structure defines a tubular axis. The article retainer comprises a flap hingedly connected to a first of the plurality of panels along a first fold line. The first fold line extends at an acute angle relative to the tubular axis. The acute angle may be no greater than 50 degrees.

[0006] Optionally, the flap is hingedly connected such that the flap can be folded inwardly of the article carrier toward a second of the plurality of panels that is hingedly connected to the first of the plurality of panels along a second fold line, the second fold line being parallel to the tubular axis.

[0007] Optionally, the flap is defined, at least in part, by at least one cutting line in the first of the plurality of panels, the at least one cutting line having at least one curved end that is located adjacent to and directed toward one end of the first fold line.

[0008] Optionally, the at least one curved end is connected to the first end of the first fold line.

[0009] Optionally, the acute angle is not less than 10 degrees and not more than 30 degrees.

[0010] A second aspect of the invention relates to a blank for forming an article carrier. The article carrier may package at least one article having a recess. The blank comprises a plurality of panels for forming a tubular structure for surrounding at least one article. The blank comprises an article retainer for engaging a recess of one of the at least one article. The article retainer may prevent dislodgement of the article from at least one of the opposed open ends of the tubular structure in a mounted article carrier. The article retainer comprises a flap punched from only a first panel of the plurality of panels and hingedly connected to the first of the plurality of panels along a first fold line. The flap, when folded around the first fold line, defines at least a portion of the machine gripping opening.A machine element may engage the machine gripping opening to clamp the blank around the at least one item. The flap may be a single or integral member formed from material removed from the machine gripping opening.

[0011] Optionally, the machine gripping opening includes a recess along a perimeter of the machine gripping opening, the recess being located at a position opposite the first fold line.

[0012] Optionally, the machine grip opening includes a recess along a perimeter of the machine grip opening, the recess being located at a position across the machine grip opening relative to the first fold line.

[0013] Optionally, the flap is defined, at least in part, by a cut line in the first of the plurality of panels, the recess being located such that the recess interrupts the cut line and divides the cut line into two portions, the two portions of the cut line extending respectively from the recess to opposite ends of the first fold line respectively.

[0014] A third aspect of the invention relates to a blank for forming an article carrier. The article carrier may package at least one article having a recess. The blank comprises a plurality of panels for forming a tubular structure for surrounding at least one article. The blank comprises an article retainer for engaging a recess of one of the at least one article. The article retainer may prevent dislodgement of the article from at least one of the opposed open ends of the tubular structure in a mounted article carrier. The blank comprises a longitudinal axis. The article retainer comprises a flap hingedly connected to a first of the plurality of panels along a first fold line. The first fold line extends at an acute angle relative to the longitudinal axis. The acute angle may be greater than 40 degrees and less than 90 degrees.

[0015] A fourth aspect of the invention relates to an article carrier for packaging at least one article each having a recess. The article carrier comprises a plurality of panels for forming a tubular structure for surrounding at least one article. The article carrier comprises an article retainer for engaging a recess of one of the at least one article so as to prevent dislodgement of the article from at least one of the opposed open ends of the tubular structure. The tubular structure defines a tubular axis. The article retainer comprises a flap hingedly connected to a first of the plurality of panels along a first fold line. The first fold line extends at an acute angle relative to the tubular axis. The acute angle may be no greater than 50 degrees.

[0016] A fifth aspect of the invention relates to an article carrier for packaging at least one article each having a recess. The article carrier comprises a plurality of panels for forming a tubular structure for surrounding at least one article. The article carrier comprises an article retainer for engaging a recess of one of the at least one article so as to prevent dislodgement of the article from at least one of the opposed open ends of the tubular structure. The article retainer comprises a flap punched from only a first panel of the plurality of panels and hingedly connected to the first of the plurality of panels along a first fold line. The flap, when folded over the first fold line, defines at least a portion of a machine gripping opening for engagement by a machine element to clamp the blank around the at least one article.The flap may be a single or one-piece member formed from material removed from the machine gripping opening.

[0017] A sixth aspect of the invention relates to an article holder for packaging at least one article each having a recess. The article holder comprises a plurality of panels for forming a tubular structure for surrounding at least one article. The article holder includes an article retainer for engaging a recess of one of the at least one article so as to prevent dislodgement of the article from at least one of the opposed open ends of the tubular structure. The article holder includes a transverse axis. The transverse axis is perpendicular to a tubular axis of the tubular structure. The article retainer includes a flap hingedly connected to a first of the plurality of panels along a first fold line. The first fold line extends at an acute angle to the transverse axis. The acute angle may be greater than 40 degrees and less than 90 degrees.

[0018] A seventh aspect of the invention relates to an article engagement flap formed from a carton bottom panel and hingedly connected to the bottom panel. The engagement flap is defined in part by a free edge that includes a segment for forming a non-projection or truncation. The segment includes a portion of the free edge that is disposed closest to a side panel of the carton in an erect form of the carton. The engagement flap is folded inwardly beyond 90 degrees toward the side panel.

[0019] Optionally, the segment is chosen from the group consisting of a straight segment, a concavely curved segment and a concavely angled segment.

[0020] Optionally, the engagement flap also includes an engagement segment for engaging a portion of an article.

[0021] An eighth aspect of the invention relates to a blank for forming an article carrier for packaging at least one article each having a recess. The blank comprises a plurality of panels for forming a tubular structure for surrounding at least one article. The blank comprises an article retainer for engaging a recess of one of the at least one article to prevent dislodgement of the article from at least one of the opposed open ends of the tubular structure. The article retainer comprises a flap punched from a first of the plurality of panels and hingedly connected thereto along a first fold line. The flap defines an opening in the first of the plurality of panels when folded out of the plane of the first of the plurality of panels. The opening includes a notch which is located along a free edge of the flap when the flap is in its initial unfolded position.The free edge includes a segment intended to form a non-projection, a truncation or a re-entrant portion, the segment being disposed adjacent to the notch.

[0022] Optionally, the segment is located such that it defines a portion of the notch when the flap is in the initial position.

[0023] Optionally, the segment is located such that the segment extends from of the notch.

[0024] A ninth aspect of the invention relates to a package comprising an article carrier and at least one article each having a recess. The article carrier comprises a plurality of panels for forming a tubular structure surrounding at least one article. The article carrier comprises an article retainer for engaging a recess of one of said at least one article to prevent dislodgement of the article from at least one of the opposed open ends of the tubular structure. The article retainer comprises a flap punched from a first of the plurality of panels and hingedly connected thereto along a first fold line. The flap defines an opening in the first of the plurality of panels when folded out of the plane of said panel. The opening includes a notch located along a free edge of the flap when the flap is in its initial unfolded position.The free edge includes a segment for forming a non-projection, truncation, or re-entrant portion, the segment being disposed adjacent the notch. The engagement flap may include an engagement segment for engaging a portion of at least one article.

[0025] Within the scope of this application, it is contemplated or intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternatives specified in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and / or in the following description and drawings may be considered or taken independently or in any combination thereof.

[0026] The features or elements described in connection with or in relation to one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments, except in the event of incompatibility of the features. One or more features or elements of one embodiment may be incorporated or combined with any of the other embodiments indicated herein, and said features or elements extracted from said embodiment may be included in addition to or in substitution for one or more features or elements of said other embodiment.

[0027] A feature, or combination of features, of an embodiment disclosed herein may be extracted independently of other features of that embodiment. Alternatively, a feature or combination of features of an embodiment may be omitted from that embodiment. Brief description of the drawings

[0028] Embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0029] [Fig. 1] is a top plan view of a blank for forming an article holder according to embodiments of the disclosure;

[0030] [Fig.2] is a perspective view of an article holder formed from the blank of the [Fig.l];

[0031] [Fig.3] is a perspective view of the underside of the article holder of [Fig.2];

[0032] [Fig.4] is a top plan view of a blank for forming an article holder according to other embodiments of the disclosure;

[0033] [Fig.5] is a perspective view of an article holder formed from the blank of [Fig.l];

[0034] [Fig.6] is a top view of a blank for forming an article holder according to still further embodiments of the disclosure;

[0035] [Fig.7] is a top plan view of a portion of the blank of [Fig.6] illustrating the positions of the articles relative thereto;

[0036] [Fig.8] is a perspective view of an article holder formed from the blank of [Fig.6]; and

[0037] [Fig.9] is a perspective view from below of the article holder of [Fig.8]. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EMBODIMENTS

[0038] Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of the package, blanks, and article carriers are disclosed herein. It is understood that the disclosed embodiments are only examples of how certain aspects of the invention may be implemented and do not represent an exhaustive list of all ways in which the invention may be carried out. As used herein, the term "exemplary" is used broadly to refer to embodiments that serve as illustrations, specimens, models, or patterns. Indeed, it will be understood that the packages, blanks, and article carriers described herein may be made in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale, and certain features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components.Well-known components, materials, or processes are not necessarily described in great detail so as not to obscure the present disclosure. Any specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to use the invention in various ways.

[0039] Referring to [Fig.l], there is shown a plan view of a blank 10 capable of forming a carton or article carrier 90, as shown in [Fig.2], for containing and transporting a group of primary products such as, but not limited to, beverage cans, hereinafter referred to as "articles B", as shown in [Fig.2]. The blank 10 may be assembled to form a secondary package for packaging at least one container or package of primary products.

[0040] Referring to [Fig. 4], there is shown a plan view of another blank 110 capable of forming a carton or article carrier 190, as shown in [Fig. 5], for containing and transporting a group of primary products such as, but not limited to, beverage cans. The blank 110 may be assembled to form a secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package.

[0041] Referring to [Fig. 6], there is shown a plan view of a third blank 210 capable of forming a carton or article carrier 290, as shown in [Fig. 8], for containing and transporting a group of primary products such as, but not limited to, beverage cans. The blank 210 may be assembled to form a secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package.

[0042] In the embodiments detailed herein, the terms "carton" and "article carrier" refer, for the non-limiting purpose of illustrating the various features of the invention, to a container 90; 190; 290 for engaging and carrying articles B, such as containers of primary products B. It is contemplated that the teachings of the invention may be applied to various containers of products B, 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), tins, cups, pots, bags, pouches, and the like. The articles may have a recess or indentation at their upper and / or lower end.In some embodiments, the articles may include a projection or flange extending outwardly, upwardly, or downwardly, so as to form a wall or engaging surface.

[0043] The blanks 10; 110; 210 are formed from a suitable substrate sheet. It is understood that, as used herein, the term "suitable substrate" includes all manner of foldable sheet materials such as paperboard, corrugated cardboard, bleached cardboard, plastic, combinations of these materials, and the like. It is to be recognized that one or other numbers of blanks may be used, as appropriate, for example, to provide the article holder structure described in more detail below.

[0044] The packaging structures or carton 90; 190; 290 described herein may be formed from a sheet material such as paperboard, which may be made of or coated with materials to increase its mechanical strength. NATRALOCK® Tear Resistant Paperboard, manufactured by the WestRock Company, is an example of such a sheet material. It should be noted that the tear resistant materials may be provided by multiple layers, to help improve the tear resistance of the packaging. Typically, one surface of the sheet material may have different characteristics than the other surface. For example, the surface of the sheet material that faces the outside of a finished package may be particularly smooth and may have a coating such as a clay coating or other surface treatment to ensure good printability. The surface of the sheet material that faces the inside may, however, be provided with a coating, layer, treatment, or otherwise prepared to impart properties such as tear resistance, good bondability, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties.

[0045] In the embodiments illustrated in Figures 1-3, the blank 10 is configured to form a carton or article carrier 90 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary B articles. In the illustrated embodiments, the arrangement is an mxn matrix or array, having two rows (m = 2) and two columns (n ​​= 2); in the illustrated embodiments, two rows of two B articles are provided, and the B articles are 500 ml beverage cans.

[0046] In the embodiments illustrated in Figures 4 and 5, the blank 110 is configured to form a carton or article carrier 190 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary B articles. In the illustrated embodiments, the arrangement is an mxn matrix or array, having two rows (m = 2) and three columns (n ​​= 3); in the illustrated embodiments, two rows of three B articles are provided, and the B articles are 500 ml beverage cans.

[0047] In the embodiments illustrated in Figures 6-9, the blank 210 is configured to form a carton or article carrier 290 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary B articles. In the illustrated embodiments, the arrangement is an mxn matrix or array, having two rows (m = 2) and three columns (n ​​= 3); in the illustrated embodiments, two rows of three B articles are provided, and the B articles are 330 ml beverage cans.

[0048] The blanks 10; 110; 210 may also be configured to form an article carrier for packaging other types, numbers and sizes of articles B and / or for packaging articles B in a different arrangement or configuration, for example, but not limited to, fully enclosed cartons or carrier baskets, and the articles B may be bottles or cans.

[0049] With respect to [Fig.l], there is illustrated a blank 10 for forming an article holder 90 (see [Fig.2]) according to certain embodiments of the disclosure. The blank 10 comprises a plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 to form a tubular structure. The plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 comprises: a first base panel 12, a first corner or bevel panel 14, a first side panel 16, a second corner or bevel panel 18, a top panel 20, a third corner or bevel panel 22, a second side panel 24, a fourth corner or bevel panel 26 and a second base panel 28. The plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 may be arranged in a linear series, hinged to each other by corresponding fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23, 25, 27.

[0050] In other embodiments, the first, second, third and fourth corner panels 14, 18, 22, 26 may be omitted.

[0051] The fold line 13 and the fold line 27 optionally comprise cutting lines or sectioning lines (not shown) which are collinear with a respective one of the fold line 13 and the fold line 27 so as to interrupt or coincide with said fold line 13, 27. The sectioning lines may comprise shock absorbing or damping devices near the base of the carton 90.

[0052] The first and fourth corner panels 14, 26 are optional and may be considered as forming lower portions of the respective one of the first or second side panels 16, 24, or as part of the first or second base panels 12, 28, to which they are hingedly connected. In some embodiments, the first and fourth corner panels 14, 26 may be omitted, and the fold lines 15, 25 may be omitted in those embodiments.

[0053] The second and third corner panels 18, 22 are optional and may be considered as forming upper portions of one of the first or second side panels 16, 24, or as part of the top panel 20. In some embodiments, the second and third corner panels 18, 22 may be omitted, and the fold lines 17, 23 may be omitted in those embodiments.

[0054] The blank 10 may be folded to form a package 90, as illustrated in Figures 2 and 3. The first and second base panels 12, 28 may engage each other in an overlapping relationship to form a composite base wall 12 / 28 of the carton 90. The blank 10 may include a complementary locking mechanism for securing the second base panel 28 to the first base panel 12. The second base panel 28 may include at least a first portion F of the complementary locking mechanism. The first base panel 12 may include at least a second portion M of the complementary locking mechanism. In the illustrated embodiment, the second base panel 28 includes a plurality of female tabs F defining openings in the second base panel 28. The first base panel 12 includes a plurality of male tabs M; and the openings in the second base panel 28 are configured to receive a respective one of the male tabs M. The female tabs F are arranged to be displaced out of the second base panel 28 to form the opening and to bear against the male tabs M when received therein. In some embodiments, the complementary locking mechanism M / F may be omitted; and the first and second base panels 12, 28 may be secured to each other by other means such as, but not limited to, adhesive or staples.

[0055] The additional locking mechanism illustrated and described is entirely optional.

[0056] The blank 10 comprises at least one article retaining device or article engaging structure T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8.

[0057] The blank 10 comprises at least one first article retainer (also referred to herein as an article retainer or upper end article engaging structure) T3, T4, T5, T6 for engaging an upper end of the articles B. The blank 10 illustrated in [Fig.l] comprises four first article engaging structures T3, T4, T5, T6.

[0058] The blank 10 comprises at least one second article retainer (also referred to herein as an article retainer or lower end article engaging structure) T1, T2, T7, T8 for engaging a lower end of the articles B. The blank 10 illustrated in [Fig.l] comprises four second article engaging structures T1, T2, T7, T8.

[0059] Each of the first article engagement structures T3, T4, T5, T6 includes a flap 60 hingedly connected to the top panel 20. A first and a second of the first article engagement structures T3, T5 each includes a flap 60 hingedly connected to the top panel 20 at a first end of the top panel 20. A third and a fourth of the first article engagement structures T4, T6 each includes a flap 60 hingedly connected to the top panel 20 at a second end of the top panel 20.

[0060] The flaps 60 of the first and second article engagement structures T3, T5 extend to a first outer edge of the blank 10.

[0061] The flaps 60 of the third and fourth first article engagement structures T4, T6 extend to a second outer edge of the blank 10.

[0062] The flaps 60 of the first article engaging structures T3, T4, T5, T6 do not extend beyond the footprint of the top panel 20. The flaps 60 of the first article engaging structures T3, T4, T5, T6 are entirely contained within the footprint of the top panel 20.

[0063] The flaps 60 do not extend beyond the ends of the top panel 20.

[0064] The marginal portions of the top panel 20, hingedly connected to each of the first and second side panels 16, 24, or the second and third beveled panels 18, 22 when present, are of equal length to the first and second side panels 16, 24 (or to the second and third beveled panels 18, 22).

[0065] A first recess RI is provided in the first end of the top panel 20, the flaps 60 of the first and second first article engaging structures T3, T5 may be considered to be located in the first recess RL. The flaps 60 of the first and second first article engaging structures T3, T5 may at least partially define the first recess RI and, when folded out of the plane of the top panel 20, increase the size of the first recess RL.

[0066] The first recess RI is arranged so as to be able to accommodate all of the flaps 60.

[0067] The first recess RI is defined in the top panel 20 and does not extend into the first and second side panels 16, 24 or the second and third beveled panels 18, 22.

[0068] The flap 60 of the first of the first article engagement structures T3 is hingedly connected to the top panel 20 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 61 which is oriented obliquely relative to the fold line 19 hingedly connecting the top panel 20 to the second corner panel 18. The fold line 61 is spaced from a first end edge of one of the marginal portions of the top panel 20.

[0069] The flap 60 of the second of the first article engagement structures T5 is hingedly connected to the top panel 20 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 61 which is oriented obliquely relative to the fold line 21 hingedly connecting the top panel 20 to the third corner panel 22. The fold line 61 is spaced from a first end edge of the other of the marginal portions of the top panel 20.

[0070] The fold line 61 hinged the flap 60 of the first of the first article engagement structures T3 to the top panel 20 is arranged divergently from the fold line 61 hinged the flap 60 of the second of the first article engagement structures T5 to the top panel 20. The fold line 61 hinged the flap 60 of the first of the first article engagement structures T3 to the top panel 20 and the fold line 61 hinged the flap 60 of the second of the first article engagement structures T5 to the top panel 20 define an angle therebetween; the angle may be less than 60° and, in some embodiments, may be about 40°. The angle may be greater than 20° and may be greater than 30°.

[0071] The fold line 61 hinged the flap 60 of the first of the first article engagement structures T3 to the top panel 20 and the fold line 51 hinged the flap 60 of the second of the first article engagement structures T5 to the top panel 20 are arranged to diverge toward the first end of the top panel 20.

[0072] The fold line 61 hinged the flap 60 of the first of the first article engagement structures T3 on the top panel 20 and the fold line 61 hinged the flap 60 of the second of the first article engagement structures T5 on the top panel 20 are arranged to converge towards the second end of the top panel 20.

[0073] In this way, the flap 60 of the first of the first article engagement structures T3 and the flap 60 of the second of the first article engagement structures T5 fold relative to each other.

[0074] A second recess R2 is provided in the second end of the top panel 20, the flaps 60 of the third and fourth first article engaging structures T4, T6 may be considered to be located in the second recess R2. The flaps 60 of the third and fourth first article engaging structures T4, T6 may at least partially define the second recess R2 and, when folded out of the plane of the top panel 20, increase the size of the second recess R2.

[0075] The second recess R2 is defined in the top panel 20 and does not extend into the first and second side panels 16, 24 or the second and third beveled panels 18, 22.

[0076] The second recess R2 is arranged so as to be able to accommodate all of the flaps 60.

[0077] The flap 60 of the third of the first article engagement structures T4 is hingedly connected to the top panel 20 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 61 which is oriented obliquely relative to the fold line 19 hingedly connecting the top panel 20 to the second corner panel 18. The fold line 61 is spaced from a second end edge of said one of the marginal portions of the top panel 20.

[0078] The flap 60 of the fourth of the first article engagement structures T6 is hingedly connected to the top panel 20 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 61 which is oriented obliquely relative to the fold line 21 hingedly connecting the top panel 20 to the third corner panel 22. The fold line 61 is spaced from a second end edge of said other portion marginal portions of the top panel 20.

[0079] The fold line 61 hinged the flap 60 of the third of the first article engagement structures T4 on the top panel 20 is arranged divergently from the fold line 61 hinged the flap 60 of the fourth of the first article engagement structures T6 on the top panel 20.

[0080] The fold line 61 hinged the flap 60 of the third of the first article engagement structures T3 to the top panel 20 is arranged divergently from the fold line 19 hinged the first side panel 16 (or the second corner panel 18 when present) to the top panel 20. The fold line 61 hinged the flap 60 of the third of the first article engagement structures T3 and the fold line 19 define a first angle θi therebetween. The fold line 61 hinged the flap 60 of the third of the first article engagement structures T3 defines a second angle θ2 relative to a longitudinal axis La of the blank 10.

[0081] The first angle 0i may be acute. The first angle 0i may be less than or equal to 50°. The first angle 0i may be less than or equal to 30°. The first angle 0i may be approximately 20°. The first angle 0i may be greater than or equal to 10°.

[0082] The second angle 02 may be acute. The second angle 02 may be greater than or equal to 40° and less than 90°.

[0083] The fold line 61 hinged the flap 60 of the third of the first article engagement structures T3 to the top panel 20 is arranged divergently from the fold line 61 hinged the flap 60 of the second of the first article engagement structures T5 to the top panel 20. The fold line 61 hinged the flap 60 of the first of the first article engagement structures T3 to the top panel 20 and the fold line 61 hinged the flap 60 of the second of the first article engagement structures T5 to the top panel 20 define an angle therebetween; the angle may be less than 60° and, in some embodiments, may be about 40°. The angle may be greater than 20° and may be greater than 30°.

[0084] The fold line 61 hinged the flap 60 of the third of the first article engagement structures T4 on the top panel 20 and the fold line 41 hinged the flap 40 of the fourth of the first article engagement structures T6 on the top panel 20 are arranged to diverge toward the second end of the top panel 20.

[0085] The fold line 61 hinged the flap 60 of the third of the first article engagement structures T4 on the top panel 20 and the fold line 61 hinged the flap 60 of the fourth of the first article engagement structures T6 on the top panel 20 are arranged to converge towards the first end of the top panel 20.

[0086] In the blank form, the flaps 60 partly define free end edges of the top panel 20.

[0087] The inner ends of the first article engaging structures T3, T4, T5, T6 may be separated from the top panel 20 by cut lines 63. The cut lines 63 may be curvilinear or arcuate. The cut lines 63 may terminate in a "J" or "C" shaped section. The fold lines 61 extend from the curved ends of the cut lines 63.

[0088] Each of the second article engagement structures T1, T2, T7, T8 comprises a flap 70 hingedly connected to one of the first and second base panels 12, 28 by a fold line 71. A first and a second of the second article engagement structures T1, T2 each comprises a flap 70 hingedly connected to the first base panel 12. A third and a fourth of the second article engagement structures T7, T8 each comprises a flap 70 hingedly connected to the second base panel 28.

[0089] The fold line 71, hingedly connecting the flaps 70 of the second article engagement structures T1, T2, T7, T8 to the first and second base panels 12, 28, is arranged divergently with respect to a respective one of the fold lines 13, 27. The fold line 71 hingedly connecting the flap 70 of the second article engagement structures T1, T2, T7, T8 and the respective one of the fold lines 13, 27 defines a third angle θ3 therebetween. The fold line 71 hingedly connecting the flap 70 of the second article engagement structures T1, T2, T7, T8 defines a fourth angle θ4 with respect to a longitudinal axis La of the blank 10.

[0090] The third angle 03 may be acute. The third angle 03 may be less than or equal to 50°. The third angle 03 may be less than or equal to 30°. The third angle 03 may be approximately 20°. The third angle 03 may be greater than or equal to 10°. The third angle 03 may be equal to the first angle Op

[0091] The fourth angle 04 may be acute. The fourth angle 04 may be greater than or equal to 40° and less than 90°. The fourth angle 04 may be equal to the second angle 02

[0092] Each of the second article engagement structures T1, T2, T7, T8 may include an assembly device. The assembly device facilitates clamping of the blank 10 around the group of articles B. The assembly device may include an alignment feature. The assembly device takes the form of an opening in the first or second base panel 12, 28. The opening (also referred to herein as a machine gripping opening) is defined at least in part by the tab 70 of the second article engagement structures T1, T2, T7, T8. The alignment feature takes the form of a cutout A1, the cutout A1 in the blank 10 forms an orifice adjacent and contiguous to the tab 70. In operation, the cutout A1 forms a recess or notch extending from the opening created in the first or second base panels 12, 28 formed when the tab 70 is folded inside the article holder 90. In this way, the opening created in the first or second base panels 12, 28 by the tab 70 and the cutout A1 are integral or combine to form a single orifice. The cutout A1 is defined by a portion of a notional triangle NT, another portion of which is housed in the tab 70. One of the vertices of the triangle is disposed outside the impression of the tab 70 so that the cutout A1 is formed.

[0093] In the illustrated embodiment, the side of the triangle opposite the vertex disposed outside the tab 70 is non-parallel to the fold line 71 articulating the tab 70 on the first or second base panel 12, 28; said side of the triangle and the fold line 71 define an angle between them, said angle possibly being equal to the third angle 03.

[0094] Each of the tabs 70 of the second article engaging structures T1, T2, T7, T8 is defined by a cutting line 73, terminal ends of the cutting line 73 are arcuate or curved. The fold line 71 extends between the curved ends of the cutting line 73. The cutting line 73 is interrupted by the cut A1 to form two cutting line portions.

[0095] Optionally, the blank 10 comprises a handle structure H, the handle structure H may take the form of a handle strap extending transversely, between the first and second side panels 16, 24, across the article holder 90. The handle may be defined in part by the first and second recesses R1, R2.

[0096] The handle structure H may include a pair of padding flaps 50a, 50b disposed on the opposite side of the handle strap and hingedly connected thereto by hinged connections in the form of fold lines 51a, 51b. The padding flaps 50a, 50b may be defined in part by the first or second recess RI, R2. The padding flaps 50a, 50b may extend or enlarge the respective recess of the first and second recesses RI, R2. The padding flaps 50a, 50b may extend between the pairs of first article engagement structures T3, T4, T5, T6 and may be separated therefrom by cut lines. A first padding flap 50a extends between the first and second first article engagement structures T3, T5. A second padding flap 50a extends between the third and fourth first article engaging structures T4, T6.

[0097] Referring now to [Fig. 4], there is shown a further embodiment of the present disclosure. In the second illustrated embodiment, similar reference numerals have been used, where possible, for designate similar parts, but with the addition of the prefix "100" to indicate that these features belong to the second embodiment. The additional embodiment has many features in common with the first embodiment and only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 3 will therefore be described in detail.

[0098] [Fig. 4] illustrates a blank 110 for forming an article carrier 190, as shown in [Fig. 5], according to another embodiment of the disclosure. The blank 110 includes a plurality of main panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128 to form a tubular structure. The plurality of main panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128 includes: a first base panel 112, a first optional corner or bevel panel 114, a first side panel 116, a second optional corner or bevel panel 118, a top panel 120, a third optional corner or bevel panel 122, a second side panel 124, a fourth optional corner or bevel panel 126, and a second base panel 128.The plurality of panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128 may be arranged in a linear series, hinged to each other by corresponding fold lines 113, 115, 117, 119, 121, 123, 125, 127.

[0099] The blank 110 of [Fig.4] is adapted to accommodate six articles B.

[0100] The blank 110 comprises at least one outer or end article retainer or article engaging structure T3, T4, T5, T6 for engaging an upper end of the outer or endmost disposed articles B. The blank 110 illustrated in [Fig.4] comprises four end article engaging structures T3, T4, T5, T6.

[0101] Each of the exterior article engagement structures T3, T4, T5, T6 includes a flap 160 hingedly connected to the top panel 120. A first and a second of the first article engagement structures T3, T5 each includes a flap 160 hingedly connected to the top panel 120 at a first end of the top panel 120. A third and a fourth of the first article engagement structures T4, T6 each includes a flap 160 hingedly connected to the top panel 120 at a second end of the top panel 120.

[0102] The flaps 160 of the exterior article engaging structures T3, T4, T5, T6 do not extend beyond the footprint of the top panel 120. The flaps 160 of the exterior article engaging structures T3, T4, T5, T6 are entirely contained within the footprint of the top panel 120.

[0103] The flaps 160 do not extend beyond the ends of the top panel 120.

[0104] The flaps 160 of the outer article engagement structures T3, T4, T5, T6 do not do not extend beyond the edges of the blank 110 defined, at least in part, by the first and second side panels 116, 124.

[0105] A first recess RI is provided in the first end of the top panel 120, the flaps 160 of the first and second exterior article engaging structures T3, T5 can be considered to be located in the first recess RI. The flaps 160 of the first and second exterior article engaging structures T3, T5 partially define the first recess RI and, when folded out of the plane of the top panel 120, increase the size of the first recess RI.

[0106] The first recess RI is arranged so as to be able to accommodate all of the flaps 160.

[0107] The first recess RI is defined in the top panel 120 and does not extend into the first and second side panels 116, 124 or the second and third beveled panels 118, 122.

[0108] The flap 160 of the first of the outer article engaging structures T3 is hingedly connected to the top panel 120 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 161 which is oriented obliquely relative to the fold line 119 hingedly connecting the top panel 120 to the second corner panel 118. The fold line 161 is spaced from a first end edge of one of the marginal portions of the top panel 120.

[0109] The flap 160 of the second of the outer article engaging structures T5 is hingedly connected to the top panel 120 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 161 which is oriented obliquely relative to the fold line 121 hingedly connecting the top panel 120 to the third corner panel 122. The fold line 161 is spaced from a first end edge of the other of the marginal portions of the top panel 120.

[0110] The fold line 161 hinged the flap 160 of the first of the exterior article engaging structures T3 to the top panel 120 is arranged divergently from the fold line 161 hinged the flap 160 of the second of the exterior article engaging structures T5 to the top panel 120. The fold line 161 hinged the flap 160 of the first of the exterior article engaging structures T3 to the top panel 120 and the fold line 161 hinged the flap 160 of the second of the exterior article engaging structures T5 to the top panel 120 define an angle therebetween that may be less than 50° and, in some embodiments, may be about 40°.

[0111] The fold line 161 hinged the flap 160 of the first of the outer article engagement structures T3 to the top panel 120 and the fold line 161 hinged the flap 160 of the second of the outer article engagement structures T5 to the top panel 120 are arranged to diverge toward the first end of the top panel 120.

[0112] The fold line 161 hinged the flap 160 of the first of the exterior article engaging structures T1 to the top panel 120 and the fold line 161 hinged the flap 160 of the second of the exterior article engaging structures T5 to the top panel 120 are arranged to converge toward the center or middle of the top panel 120.

[0113] In this way, the flap 160 of the first of the outer article engagement structures T3 and the flap 160 of the second of the outer article engagement structures T5 fold relative to each other.

[0114] A second recess R2 is provided at the second end of the top panel 120, the flaps 160 of the third and fourth exterior article engaging structures T4, T6 can be considered to be located in the second recess R2. The flaps 160 of the third and fourth exterior article engaging structures T4, T6 partially define the second recess R2 and, when folded out of the plane of the top panel 120, increase the size of the second recess R2.

[0115] The second recess R2 is defined in the top panel 120 and does not extend into the first and second side panels 116, 124 or the second and third beveled panels 118, 122.

[0116] The second recess R2 is arranged so as to accommodate all of the flaps 160.

[0117] The flap 160 of the third of the outer article engaging structures T4 is hingedly connected to the top panel 120 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 161 which is oriented obliquely relative to the fold line 119 hingedly connecting the top panel 120 to the second corner panel 118. The fold line 161 is spaced from a second end edge of said one of the marginal portions of the top panel 120.

[0118] The flap 160 of the fourth of the outer article engaging structures T6 is hingedly connected to the top panel 120 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 161 which is oriented obliquely relative to the fold line 121 hingedly connecting the top panel 120 to the third corner panel 122. The fold line 161 is spaced from a second end edge of said other one of the marginal portions of the top panel 120.

[0119] The fold line 161 hinged the flap 160 of the third of the exterior article engagement structures T4 on the top panel 120 is arranged divergently from the fold line 161 hinged the flap 160 of the fourth of the exterior article engagement structures T6 on the top panel 120.

[0120] The fold line 161 hinges the flap 160 of the third of the outer article engagement structures T4 to the top panel 20 and the fold line 161 ar connecting the flap 160 of the fourth of the first article engaging structures T6 on the top panel 120 are arranged to diverge toward the first end of the top panel 120.

[0121] The fold line 161 hinged the flap 160 of the third of the outer article engaging structures T4 to the top panel 120 and the fold line 161 hinged the flap 160 of the fourth of the outer article engaging structures T6 to the top panel 120 are arranged to converge toward the center or middle of the top panel 120.

[0122] The blank 110 may comprise at least one article retainer, or an inner or intermediate article engaging structure T10, T1 1 for engaging an upper end of the intermediately or centrally disposed articles B. The blank 110 illustrated in [Fig.4] comprises two inner article engaging structures T10, T1 1.

[0123] Each of the interior article engaging structures T10, T11 includes a flap 162 hingedly connected to the top panel 120.

[0124] The flap 162 of the first of the interior article engaging structures T10 is hingedly connected to the top panel 120 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 163 which is oriented parallel to the fold line 129 hingedly connecting the top panel 220 to the second corner panel 128.

[0125] The fold line 163 of the first of the interior article engaging structures T10 defines a hinged edge of the flap 162, in the unfolded state, the hinged edge is disposed closer to the fold line 119 than a free edge defined by a cut or section line. In the operatively folded state, the free edge of the flap 162 is disposed closer to the first side panel 116 than the hinged edge defined by the fold line 163.

[0126] The flap 162 of the second of the interior article engagement structures T1 1 is hingedly connected to the top panel 120 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 163 which is oriented parallel to the fold line 121 hinged the top panel 120 to the third corner panel 122.

[0127] The fold line 163 of the second of the interior article engaging structures T1 1 defines a hinged edge of the flap 162, in the unfolded state, the hinged edge is disposed closer to the fold line 121 than a free edge defined by a cut or section line. In the operatively folded state, the free edge of the flap 162 is disposed closer to the second side panel 116 than the hinged edge defined by the fold line 163.

[0128] The fold line 163 hinged the flap 163 of the first of the interior article engagement structures T10 to the top panel 120 is arranged parallel to the fold line 163 hinged the flap 162 of the second of the interior article engagement structures interior item socket Tl 1 on top panel 120.

[0129] The blank 110 comprises at least one second article retainer, or outer or end article engaging structure T1, T2, T7, T8 for engaging a lower end of the outer or endmost disposed articles B. The blank 110 illustrated in [Fig. 4] comprises four end article engaging structures T1, T2, T7, T8. The second outer or end article retainers of the embodiment shown in [Fig. 4] are of substantially similar construction to the second article retainers T1, T2, T7, T8 of the embodiment shown in [Fig. 1].

[0130] The blank 110 may comprise at least one second article retainer, or an inner or intermediate article engaging structure T9, T12 for engaging a lower end of the intermediately or centrally disposed articles B. The blank 110 illustrated in [Fig.4] comprises two second inner article engaging structures T9, T12.

[0131] Each of the second intermediate article engagement structures T9, T12 includes a flap 172 hingedly connected to one of the first and second base panels 112, 128 by a fold line 175. A first of the second article engagement structures T9 includes a flap 170 hingedly connected to the first base panel 112. A second of the second intermediate article engagement structures T12 includes a flap 170 hingedly connected to the second base panel 128.

[0132] The fold line 175 articulating the flaps 172 of the second intermediate article engagement structures T9, T12 on the first and second base panels 112, 128 is arranged substantially parallel to a respective one of the fold lines 113, 127.

[0133] Each of the second intermediate article engagement structures T9, T12 may include a joining device. The joining device facilitates clamping of the blank 110 around the group of articles B. The joining device may include an alignment feature. The joining device takes the form of an opening in the first or second base panel 112, 128. The opening (also referred to herein as a machine gripping opening) is defined in part by the tab 172 of the second intermediate article engagement structures T9, T12. The alignment feature takes the form of a cutout A2, the cutout A2 in the blank 110 forms an orifice adjacent and contiguous to the tab 172.In operation, the cutout A2 forms a recess or notch extending from the opening created in the first or second base panels 112, 128 formed when the tab 172 is folded into the article holder 190. In this way, the opening created in the first or second base panels 112, 128 . by the tab 172 and the cutout A2 are in one piece or combine to form a single orifice. The cutout A2 is defined by a part of a fictitious triangle NT2, another portion of which is received in the tab 172. One of the vertices of the triangle is arranged outside the imprint of the tab 172 so that the cutout A2 is formed.

[0134] In the illustrated embodiment, the side of the triangle opposite the apex disposed outside the tab 172 is parallel to the fold line 175 articulating the tab 172 to the first or second base panel 112, 128.

[0135] Each of the second intermediate article engaging structures T9, T12 of the tabs 172 is defined by a cutting line 177, the terminal ends of the cutting line 177 are arcuate or curved. The fold line 175 extends between the curved ends of the cutting line 177. The cutting line 177 is interrupted by the cut A2 to form two cutting line portions.

[0136] Optionally, the blank 110 comprises a handle structure H, the handle structure H may take the form of a handle strap extending transversely, between the first and second side panels 116, 124, across the article holder 190. The handle may be defined in part by the first and second recesses R1, R2.

[0137] The structure of the handle H may comprise a pair of padding flaps 50a, 50b disposed on the opposite side of the handle strap and hingedly connected thereto by hinged connections in the form of fold lines 151a, 151b.

[0138] A first padding flap 150a may be spaced from the flaps 170 of the first and second outer article engaging structures T3, T5.

[0139] A second padding flap 150b may be spaced from the flaps 170 of the third and fourth outer article engaging structures T4, T6.

[0140] Referring now to [Fig. 6], there is shown a further embodiment of the present disclosure. In the third embodiment illustrated, similar reference numerals have been used, where possible, to indicate similar parts, but with the addition of the prefix "200" to indicate that these features belong to the third embodiment. The further embodiment has many features in common with the first and second embodiments and only the differences from the embodiments illustrated in Figures 1 to 5 will therefore be described in detail.

[0141] [Fig. 6] illustrates a blank 210 for forming an article carrier 290, as shown in [Fig. 8], according to another embodiment of the disclosure. The blank 210 includes a plurality of main panels 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, 228 for forming a tubular structure. The plurality of main panels 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, 228 comprises: a first base panel 212, an optional first corner or bevel panel 214, a first side panel 216, an optional second corner or bevel panel 218, a top panel 220, an optional third corner or bevel panel 222, a second side panel 224, an optional fourth corner or bevel panel 226 and a second base panel 228. The plurality of panels 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, 228 may be arranged in a linear series, hinged to each other by fold lines 213, 215, 217, 219, 221, 223, 225, 227 corresponding.

[0142] The blank 210 includes at least one outer or end article retainer (or article engaging structure) T3, T4, T5, T6 for engaging an upper end of the outer or endmost disposed articles B. The blank 210 illustrated in [Fig. 6] includes four end article engaging structures T3, T4, T5, T6. The upper intermediate article retainers of [Fig. 4] have been omitted in the illustrated embodiment, but may be included in other embodiments.

[0143] Optionally, the blank 210 includes a handle structure H in the form of a pair of tabs 262, struck from the top panel 220 and hingedly connected thereto by a fold line 263. The tabs 262 are hinged in opposition to each other.

[0144] The blank 210 comprises at least one second outer or end article retainer (or article engaging structure) T1, T2, T7, T8 for engaging a lower end of the outer or end articles B. The blank 210 illustrated in [Fig.6] comprises four end article engaging structures T1, T2, T7, T8.

[0145] The second outer or end article retainers T1, T2, T7, T8 of the embodiment shown in [Fig. 6] each comprise a flap 270 hingedly connected to one of the first and second base panels 212, 228 by a fold line 271. A first and a second of the second article engaging structures T1, T2 each comprise a flap 270 hingedly connected to one of the first base panels 212, 228 by a fold line 271. A third and a fourth of the second article engaging structures T7, T8 each comprise a flap 270 hingedly connected to the second base panel 228.

[0146] The fold line 271 hinged the flaps 270 of the second article engagement structures T1, T2, T7, T8 to the first and second base panels 212, 228 is arranged divergently from a respective one of the fold lines 213, 227. The fold line 271 hinged the flap 270 of the second end article engagement structures T1, T2, T7, T8 defines an angle relative to a longitudinal axis of the blank 210.

[0147] Each of the second end article engaging structures T1, T2, T7, T8 may include a joining device. The joining device facilitates clamping of the blank 210 around the group of articles B. The joining device may include an alignment feature. The joining device takes the form of an opening in the first or second base panel 212, 228. The opening (also referred to herein as a machine gripping opening) is defined at least in part by the tab 270 of the second end article engaging structures T1, T2, T7, T8. The alignment feature takes the form of a cutout A2, the cutout A2 in the blank 210 forms an orifice adjacent and contiguous to the tab 270.In operation, the cutout A2 forms a recess or notch extending from the opening created in the first or second base panels 212, 228 formed when the tab 270 is folded into the article holder 290.

[0148] Each of the tabs 270 of the second end article engaging structures T1, T2, T7, T8 is defined by a cutting line 273a / 273b / 273c. The cutting line includes a first portion 273a, a second portion 273b and a third portion 273c.

[0149] The terminal ends of the first and third portions 273a, 273c of the cutting line 273a / 273b / 273c, adjacent to the fold line 271, are arcuate or curved in shape. The fold line 271 extends between the curved ends of the cutting line 273a / 273b / 273c. The cutting line 273a / 273b / 273c is interrupted by the cutout A2, so that two of the cutting line portions 273a, 273b are disposed on one side of the cutout A2 and the other cutting line portion 277c is disposed on the opposite side of the cutout A2.

[0150] At least one of the cutting line portions 273a / 273b / 273c may be formed to provide a relief. In the illustrated embodiment, the second portion of the cutting line 273b provides a relief.

[0151] The relief facilitates engagement of the tab 270 with the base of an article B. The relief may define a non-attachment and non-engagement edge of the tab 270. In this way, the portion of the tab 270 defined by the relief is freely or easily movable between an engaged state and a non-engaged state with the article B.

[0152] The second portion of the cutting line 273b may be arranged to be spaced from an engagement surface provided by the article B, the engagement surface may take the form of a wall provided by a recess, rim or flange extending from or into the base of the article B. In this manner, the second portion of the cutting line 273b cannot contact the article B. This may have the effect of reducing the friction between the tab 270 and the article B so as to facilitate the engagement of the flap 270 with the article by reducing the force which must be applied compared to the first and second illustrated embodiments.

[0153] In the illustrated embodiment, the second section line portion 273c is substantially linear in shape, which has the effect of truncating the tab 270. It will be appreciated that the second section line portion 273c may have other shapes and still have the effect of truncating the tab 270, for example, but not limited to, the second section line portion 273c may be re-entrant or concave, it may be non-linear or arcuate (also referred to herein as concavely curved), it may comprise two or more contiguous linear sections arranged divergently from one another (also referred to herein as concavely angled).

[0154] The blank 210 may comprise at least one second article retainer, or an inner or intermediate article engaging structure T9, T12 for engaging a lower end of the intermediately or centrally disposed articles B. The blank 210 illustrated in [Fig.6] comprises two second inner article engaging structures T9, T12.

[0155] Each of the two second intermediate article engagement structures T9, T12 includes a flap 272 hingedly connected to one of the first and second base panels 212, 228 by a fold line 275. A first of the second intermediate article engagement structures T9 includes a flap 272 hingedly connected to the first base panel 212. A second of the second intermediate article engagement structures T12 includes a flap 270 hingedly connected to the second base panel 228.

[0156] The fold line 275 articulating the flaps 272 of the second intermediate article engaging structures T9, T12 on the first and second base panels 212, 228 is arranged substantially parallel to a respective one of the fold lines 213, 227.

[0157] Each of the second intermediate article engagement structures T9, T12 may include a joining device. The joining device facilitates clamping of the blank 210 around the group of articles B. The joining device may include an alignment feature. The joining device is in the form of an opening in the first or second base panel 212, 228. The opening (also referred to herein as a machine gripping opening) is defined in part by the tab 272 of the second intermediate article engagement structures T9, T12. The alignment feature is in the form of a cutout A2, the cutout A2 in the blank 210 forms an orifice adjacent and contiguous to the tab 272. In operation, the cutout A2 forms a recess or notch extending from the opening created in the first or second base panels 212, 228 formed when the tab 272 is folded inside the article holder 290. In this way, the opening created in the first or second base panels 212, 228 by the tab 272 and the cutout A2 are integral or combine to form a single orifice. The cutout A2 is defined by a portion of a notional triangle NT2, another portion of which is received in the tab 272. One of the vertices of the triangle is disposed outside the imprint of the tab 272, so that the cutout A2 is formed.

[0158] In the illustrated embodiment, the side of the triangle opposite the apex disposed outside the tab 272 is parallel to the fold line 275 articulating the tab 272 to the first or second base panel 212, 228.

[0159] Each of the tabs 272 of the second intermediate article engaging structures T9, T12 is defined by a cutting line 277a / 277b / 277c. The cutting line includes a first portion 277a, a second portion 277b and a third portion 277c.

[0160] The terminal ends of the first and third portions 277a, 277c of the cutting line 277a / 277b / 277c, adjacent to the fold line 275, are of arcuate or curved shape.

[0161] The fold line 275 extends between the curved ends of the cutting line 277a / 277b / 277c. The cutting line 277a / 277b / 277c is interrupted by the cutout A2, such that two of the cutting line portions 277a, 277b are disposed on one side of the cutout A2 and the other cutting line portion 277c is disposed on the opposite side of the cutout A2.

[0162] At least one of the cutting line portions 277a / 277b / 277c may be formed to provide a relief. In the illustrated embodiment, the second cutting line portion 277b provides a relief.

[0163] The relief facilitates engagement of the tab 272 with the base of an article B. The relief may define a non-attachment or non-engagement edge of the tab 272. In this way, the portion of the tab 272 defined by the relief is freely or easily movable between an engaged state and a non-engaged state with the article B.

[0164] The second cut line portion 277b may be arranged to be spaced from an engagement surface provided by the article B. The engagement surface may take the form of a wall provided by a recess, rim, or flange extending from or into the base of the article B. In this manner, the second cut line portion 277b may not contact the article B. This may have the effect of reducing friction between the tab 272 and the article B so as to facilitate engagement of the tab 272 with the article by reducing the force that should be applied with respect to the first and second illustrated embodiments.

[0165] In the illustrated embodiment, the second cutting line portion 277c is substantially linear in shape, which has the effect of truncating the tab 272. It will be appreciated that the second cutting line portion 272c may have other shapes and still have the effect of truncating the tab 272, for example, but not limited to, the second cutting line portion 277c may be re-entrant or concave, it may be non-linear or arcuate (also referred to herein as concavely curved), it may comprise two or more contiguous linear sections arranged divergently from one another (also referred to herein as concavely angled).

[0166] In this manner, the tabs 270, 272 form article engaging flaps hingedly connected to the carton bottom panel 290. The engaging flaps are defined in part by a free edge that includes a second or non-engaging segment 273b, 277b (defined by the second cut line portions 273b, 277b) forming a truncation or non-protrusion. The second segment 273b, 277b includes a portion of the free edge that is disposed closest to a carton side panel 216, 224, in an erected or folded form of the carton; This is best illustrated by [Fig. 7] in which the dashed-dotted lines indicate the folded or erected position of the tabs 270, 272. The dashed lines indicate the positions of the items B relative to the first base panel 212. The engagement flaps, in the assembled state, are folded inward at an angle greater than 90 degrees and toward the side panel 216.

[0167] The second segment 273b, 277b may be a straight segment, a re-entrant segment, a concave segment, a concave curved segment or a concave angled segment.

[0168] The free edge of the tabs 270, 272 includes at least one engagement segment 273c, 277a, 277c. The engagement segment 273b, 277b (defined by the second and third section line portions 273c, 277a, 277c) forms a projection, protrusion, or raised region.

[0169] The cutout or notch A2 is located along a portion of the free edge of the tabs 270, 272 when the flap 270, 272 is in an unfolded state. The second segment or truncated segment 273b, 277b is disposed adjacent to the cutout or notch A2.

[0170] The second or truncated segment 277b of the second intermediate article engaging structures T9, T12 may be located such that it defines a portion of the cutout or notch A2 when the tab 272 is in the initial position.

[0171] The second or truncated segment 273b of the second end article engaging structures T1, T2, T7, T8 may be located such that it extends from the cutout or notch A2 when the tab 270 is in the position initial.

[0172] The present disclosure relates to an article holder 90; 190; 290 and a blank 10; 110; 210 for forming an article holder. The article holders 90; 190; 290 and the blank 10; 110; 210 comprise at least one article retainer T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8, T9, T10, T11, T12 for engaging a recess, rim, flange or other suitable engaging surface provided by an article B. When the packaged articles are cans, the engaging surface may be provided by a gasket or a rim.

[0173] The article holder 90; 190; 290 may package at least one article B having a recess. The blank 10; 110; 210 comprises a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28; 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128; 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, 228 intended to form a tubular structure for surrounding one or more articles B. The blank 10; 110; 210 includes an article retainer T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8 for engaging a recess of one of said one or more articles B. The article retainer T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8 may prevent dislodgement of the article B from at least one of the opposite open ends of the tubular structure of the mounted article holder 90; 190; 290. The tubular structure defines a tubular axis Ta.The article retainer T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8 comprises a flap 60, 70; 160, 170; 260, 270 hingedly connected to a first panel 12, 20, 28; 112, 120, 128; 212, 220, 228 of the plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28; 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128; 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, 228 along a first fold line 61, 71; 161, 171; 261, 271. The first fold line 61, 71; 161, 171; 261, 271 extends at an acute angle 0b 02 relative to the tubular axis Ta. The acute angle 0H 02 may not be greater than 50 degrees.

[0174] The flap 60, 70; 160, 170; 260, 270 may be hingedly connected such that the flap 60, 70; 160, 170; 260, 270 may be folded inwardly from the article carrier 90; 190; 290 toward a second of the plurality of panels 14, 16, 24, 26; 114, 116, 124, 126; 216, 224 that is hingedly connected to the first 12, 20, 28; 112, 120, 128; 212, 220, 228 of the plurality of panels along a second fold line 13, 15, 25, 27; 113, 115, 125, 127; 213, 215, 225, 227, the second fold line 13, 15, 25, 27; 113, 115, 125, 127; 213, 215, 225, 227 being parallel to the tubular axis Ta.

[0175] The flap 60, 70; 160, 170, 172; 260, 270, 272 may be defined, at least in part, by at least one cutting line 73; 173, 177; 273a / 273b / 273c, 277a / 277b / 277c in the first 12, 20, 28; 112, 120, 128; 212, 220, 228 of the plurality of panels, the at least one cutting line 73; 173, 177; 273a / 273b / 273c, 277a / 277b / 277c has at least one curved end that is located adjacent to and curves toward an end of the first fold line 61, 71; 161, 171, 175; 261, 271, 275.

[0176] The at least one curved end may be connected to the end of the first fold line 61, 71; 161, 171, 175; 261, 271, 275. The acute angle 0b 02 may be not less than 10 degrees and not more than 30 degrees.

[0177] The present disclosure also relates to an article holder 90; 190; 290 having a machine gripping opening and a blank 10; 110; 210 for forming it. The article holder 90; 190; 290 and / or the blank 10; 110; 210 comprise an article retainer T1, T2, T7, T8, T9, T12 for engaging a recess of one of at least one article B. The article retainer T1, T2, T7, T8, T9, T12 may prevent dislodgement of the article B from at least one of the opposite open ends of the tubular structure of the article holder 90; 190; 290.The article retainer T1, T2, T7, T8, T9, T12 comprises a flap 70; 170, 172; 270, 272 punched from only a first panel 12, 28; 112, 128; 212, 228 of the plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28; 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128; 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, 228 and hingedly connected to the first 12, 28; 112, 128; 212, 228 of the plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28; 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128; 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, 228 along a first fold line 71; 171, 175; 271, 275. The flap 70; 170, 172; 270, 272, when folded around the first fold line 71; 171, 175; 271, 275, defines at least a portion of a machine gripping opening. A machine element may engage the machine gripping opening to clamp the blank 10; 110 around at least one item B.The flap 70; 170, 172; 270; 272 may be a single or integral member formed from material removed from the machine gripping opening.

[0178] The machine gripping opening may include a recess A1, A2 along a perimeter of the machine gripping opening, the recess A1, A2 being located at a position opposite the first fold line 71; 171, 175; 271, 275.

[0179] The machine gripping opening may include a recess A1, A2 along a perimeter of the machine gripping opening, the recess A1, A2 being located at a position across the machine gripping opening relative to the first fold line 71; 171, 175; 271, 275.

[0180] The flap 70; 170, 172; 270, 272 is defined at least in part by a cutting line 73; 173, 177; 273a / 273b / 273c, 277a / 277b / 277c in the first panel 12, 28; 112, 128; 212, 228 of the plurality of panels, the recess A1, A2 being located such that the recess A1, A2 interrupts the cutting line 73; 173, 177; 273a / 273b / 273c, 277a / 277b / 277c and divides the cutting line 73; 173, 177; 273a / 273b / 273c, 277a / 277b / 277c in two portions, the two portions of the cutting line 73; 173, 177; 273a / 273b / 273c, 277a / 277b / 277c extending respectively from the recess Al, A2 to the opposite ends of the first fold line respectively 71; 171, 175; 271, 275.

[0181] The present disclosure further relates to a blank 10; 110; 210 for forming an article carrier 90; 190; 290. The article carrier 90; 190; 290 may package at least one article B having a recess. The blank 10; 110; 210 comprises a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28; 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128; 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, 228 for forming a tubular structure for surrounding at least one article B. The blank 10; 110; 210 comprises an article retainer T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8 for engaging a recess of one of said at least one article B. The article retainer T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8 may prevent dislodgement of the article B from at least one of the opposite open ends of the tubular structure in a mounted article holder 90; 190; 290. The blank 10; 110; 210 comprises a longitudinal axis La.The article retainer T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8 comprises a flap 60, 70; 160, 170; 260; 270 hingedly connected to a first panel 12, 20, 28; 112, 120, 128; 212, 220, 228 of the plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28; 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128; 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, 228 along a first fold line 61, 71; 161, 171; 261, 271. The first fold line 61, 71; 161, 171; 261; 271 extends at an acute angle 03, 04 relative to the longitudinal axis La. The acute angle 03, 04 may be greater than or equal to 40 degrees and less than 90 degrees.

[0182] The present disclosure relates to an article holder 90; 190; 290 for packaging at least one article B having a recess. The article holder 90; 190; 290 comprises a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28; 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128; 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, 228 for forming a tubular structure for surrounding at least one article B. The article holder 90; 190; 290 comprises an article retainer T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8 for engaging a recess of one of said at least one article B so as to prevent dislodgement of the article B from at least one of the opposite open ends of the tubular structure. The article holder 90; 190; 290 comprises a transverse axis La. The transverse axis La is perpendicular to a tubular axis Ta of the tubular structure.The article retainer T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8 comprises a flap 60, 70; 160, 170; 260, 270 hingedly connected to a first panel 12, 20, 28; 112, 120, 128; 212, 220, 228 of the plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28; 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128; 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, 228 along a first fold line 61, 71; 161, 171; 261, 271. The first fold line 61, 71; 161, 171; 261, 271 extends at an acute angle 03, 04 relative to the transverse axis La. The acute angle 03, 04 may be . greater than or equal to 40 degrees and less than 90 degrees.

[0183] The article holder 90; 190; 290 may be of the wrap-around type, comprising a composite wall formed of two panels fixed together. The composite wall may be a bottom wall of the tubular structure.

[0184] It can be appreciated that various modifications may be made within the scope of the present invention. For example, the size and shape of the panels and ports may be adjusted to accommodate articles of different sizes or shapes. The illustrated embodiments show cartons or blanks for forming a wrap-around style article carrier; in other embodiments, the article carrier may take one or more alternative sizes or styles and may utilize one or more of the features of the present disclosure.

[0185] It will be recognized that, as used herein, directional references such as "top", "bottom", "base", "front", "rear", "end", "side", "inner", "outer", "upper" and "lower" do not necessarily limit the respective panels to that orientation, but may simply serve to distinguish those panels from one another.

[0186] As used herein, the terms "hinged connection" and "fold line" refer to all manner of lines that define features of the blank's joints, facilitate folding portions of the blank relative to one another, or otherwise indicate optimal locations for folding panels intended for the blank. Any reference to a "hinged connection" should not be construed as necessarily referring to a single fold line; indeed, a hinged connection may be formed from two or more fold lines, each of which may be either rectilinear / linear or curved / curvilinear in shape. When linear fold lines form a hinged connection, they may be arranged parallel to one another or be at a slight angle to one another.When the curvilinear fold lines form a hinged connection, they may intersect to define a shaped panel in the area enclosed by the curvilinear fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may include a pair of arcuate or curved fold lines intersecting at two points such that they define an elliptical panel between them. A hinged connection may be formed from one or more linear fold lines and one or more curvilinear fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may include a combination of a linear fold line and an arcuate or circular arc fold line intersecting at two points such that they define a half-moon shaped panel between them.

[0187] As used herein, the term "fold line" may refer to any of the following: a scored line, an embossed line, a debossed line, a per drillings, a line of short slots, a line of half cuts, a single half cut, an interrupted cut line, a line of aligned slots, a line of notches and any combination of the above options.

[0188] It is understood that the hinged assemblies and the bend lines may each include features that are formed in the substrate of the blank, including perforations, a line of perforations, a line of short slits, a line of half cuts, a single half cut, a cut line, an interrupted cut line, slots, notches, any combination thereof, and the like. The features may be sized and arranged to provide the desired functionality. For example, a line of perforations may be sized or designed with degrees of lesser strength to define a bend line and / or a sectioning line. The line of perforations may be designed to facilitate bending and resist breaking, to facilitate bending and facilitate breaking with more force, or to facilitate breaking with little force.

[0189] The term "in coincidence with" as used herein refers to the alignment of two or more features in an erected carton, such as an orifice formed in a first of two overlapping panels and a second orifice formed in a second of two overlapping panels. These features in coincidence with each other may be aligned with each other across the thickness of the overlapping panels. For example, when an orifice in a first panel is "in coincidence with" a second orifice in a second panel that is placed in an overlapping arrangement with the first panel, an edge of the orifice may extend along at least a portion of an edge of the second orifice and may be aligned, across the thickness of the first and second panels, with the second orifice.

Claims

Claims

1. A blank (10; 110; 210) for forming an article carrier (90; 190; 290) for packaging at least one article (B) having a recessed portion or a recess, the blank comprising: a plurality of panels (12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28; 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128; 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, 228) for forming a tubular structure for surrounding the at least one article (B); and an article retainer (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8, T9, T10, T11, T12) for engaging the recessed portion or recess of one of the at least one article (B) to prevent dislodgement of the article from at least one of the opposed open ends of the tubular structure, the article retainer comprising a flap (60, 70; 160, 170; 260, 270) hingedly connected to the first (12, 20, 28; 112, 120, 128; 212, 220, 228) of the plurality of panels, wherein the flap (T3, T4, T5, T6; 60; 160;260) extends to a first outer edge of the blank (10; 110; 210).;

2. A blank according to claim 1 further comprising an additional article retainer (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8, T9, T10, T11, T12) for engaging the recessed portion or recess of an additional article of said at least one article (B) to prevent dislodgement of the additional article from at least one of the opposite open ends of the tubular structure, the additional article retainer comprising an additional flap (60, 70; 160, 170; 260, 270) hingedly connected to a first (12, 20, 28; 112, 120, 128; 212, 220, 228) of the plurality of panels, and wherein the additional flap (T3, T4, T5, T6; 60; 160; 260) extends to a second outer edge of the blank (10; 110; 210).

3. A blank according to claim 2, wherein the flap (60, 70; 160, 170; 260, 270) is hingedly connected to the first of the plurality of panels at a first end of the first of the plurality of panels (12, 20, 28; 112, 120, 128; 212, 220, 228), and wherein the further flap (60, 70; 160, 170; 260, 270) is hingedly connected to the first of the plurality of panels at a second end of the first of the plurality of panels (12, 20, 28; 112, 120, 128; 212, 220, 228).

4. A blank according to claim 2, wherein the flap and the additional flap (T3, T4, T5, T6; 60; 160; 260) are fully contained in the footprint of the first of the plurality of panels (12, 20, 28; 112, 120, 128; 212, 220, 228), such that the flap and the additional flap do not extend beyond the footprint of the first of the plurality of panels.

5. A blank according to claim 3, wherein the flap and the additional flap (T3, T4, T5, T6; 60; 160; 260) do not extend beyond the first and second ends of the first of the plurality of panels (12, 20, 28; 112, 120, 128; 212, 220, 228).

6. The blank of claim 1, further comprising a first recess (RI) formed in a first end of the first of the plurality of panels (20; 120; 220), wherein the flap (T3, T4, T5, T6; 60; 160; 260) is located in the first recess.

7. A blank according to claim 6, wherein the flap (T3, T4, T5, T6; 60; 160; 260) defines, at least in part, the first recess (RI) characterized by a size, and wherein the size of the first recess is increased when the flap is folded out of the plane of the first of the plurality of panels (20; 120; 220).

8. Blank according to claim 6, in which the first recess (RI) is arranged so as to be able to accommodate the entire flap (T3, T4, T5, T6; 60; 160; 260).

9. A blank according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a further article retaining device (T1, T2, T7, T8, T9, T12) for engaging a further recessed portion of one of said at least one article (B), wherein the recessed portion and the further recessed portion are disposed at opposite ends of one of said at least one article.

10. An article carrier (90; 190; 290) for packaging at least one article having a recessed portion (B), the article carrier comprising: a plurality of panels (12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28; 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128; 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, 228) for forming a tubular structure for surrounding at least one article (B); and an article retainer (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8, T9, T10, T11, T12) for engaging the recessed portion of one of the at least one article to prevent dislodgement of the article (B) from at least one of the opposed open ends of the tubular structure, the article retainer comprising a flap (60, 70; 160, 170; 260, 270) hingedly connected to a first (12, 20, 28; 112, 120, 128; 212, 220, 228) of the plurality of panels, wherein the flap (T3, T4, T5, T6; 60; 160; 260) is sized to extend to a first end of the first (20; 120; 220) of the plurality of panels, when the flap is not folded so as not to be engaged with the recessed portion of the at least one article (B).

11. An article carrier according to claim 10, further comprising an additional article retainer (T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8, T9, T10, T11, T12) for engaging the recessed portion of an additional article (B) to prevent dislodgement of the additional article from at least one of the opposite open ends of the tubular structure, the additional article retainer comprising an additional flap (60, 70; 160, 170; 260, 270) hingedly connected to a first (12, 20, 28; 112, 120, 128; 212, 220, 228) of the plurality of panels, wherein the additional flap (T3, T4, T5, T6; 60; 160; 260) is sized to extend to a second end of the first (20; 120; 220) of the plurality of panels when the additional flap is not folded so as not to be engaged with the recessed portion of the additional article of said at least one article (B).

12. An article carrier according to claim 11, wherein the flap (T3, T4, T5, T6; 60; 160; 260) is hingedly connected to the first of the plurality of panels at a first end of the first of the plurality of panels (12, 20, 28; 112, 120, 128; 212, 220, 228), and wherein the further flap (T3, T4, T5, T6; 60; 160; 260) is hingedly connected to the first of the plurality of panels at a second end of the plurality of panels (12, 20, 28; 112, 120, 128; 212, 220, 228).

13. An article carrier according to claim 11, wherein the flap and the additional flap (T3, T4, T5, T6; 60; 160; 260) are entirely contained within the footprint of the first of the plurality of panels, such that the flap and the additional flap do not extend beyond the footprint of the first of the plurality of panels (12, 20, 28; 112, 120, 128; 212, 220, 228).

14. An article carrier according to claim 12, wherein the flap and the additional flap (T3, T4, T5, T6; 60; 160; 260) do not extend beyond the first and second ends of the first of the plurality of panels (12, 20, 28; 112, 120, 128; 212, 220, 228).

15. An article carrier according to any one of claims 10 to 14, further comprising a first recess (RI) formed in a first end of the first of the plurality of panels (20; 120; 220), wherein the flap (T3, T4, T5, T6; 60; 160; 260) is located in the first recess.

16. An article carrier according to claim 15, wherein the flap (T3, T4, T5, T6; 60; 160; 260) defines, at least in part, the first recess (RI) characterized by a size, and wherein the size of the first recess is increased when the flap is folded out of the plane of the first of the plurality of panels (20; 120; 220).

17. Article holder according to claim 15, in which the first recess (RI) is arranged so as to be able to accommodate the entire flap (T3, T4, T5, T6; 60; 160; 260).

18. An article holder according to any one of claims 10 to 17, further comprising a further article retaining device (T1, T2, T7, T8, T9, T12) for engaging a further recessed portion of one of said at least one article (B), wherein the recessed portion and the further recessed portion are disposed at opposite ends of one of said at least one article.

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