Article carriers and blanks thereof

Abstract

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to an article carrier (90) for forming a package and a blank (10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510) for forming the article carrier (90). The blank (10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510) comprises at least one panel (12) having at least one article engagement structure (RT1, RT2). The at least one article engagement structure (RT1, RT2) comprises an article receiving aperture (AP) and a series of annular tabs (14A, 14B, 14C, 14D) formed about the article receiving aperture (AP). The series of annular tabs (14A, 14B, 14C, 14D) are at least partially defined by a plurality of radial cut lines (15A, 15B). The annular series of tabs (14A, 14B, 14C, 14D) is at least partially defined by a plurality of circumferential cut lines (9A, 9B, 11). The annular series of tabs (14A, 14B, 14C, 14D) comprises at least one first tab (14A) having a first fold resistance and at least one second tab (14B, 14C, 14D) having a second fold resistance, the second fold resistance being lower than the first fold resistance.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to packages, article carriers, and blanks for forming the same. More specifically, but not by way of limitation, the present invention relates to packages comprising a carrier having a main panel that includes one or more apertures for receiving an article. [Background technology]

[0002] In the packaging art, it is known to provide cartons for carrying multiple items. Cartons are well known in the art and are useful for transporting, storing and allowing consumers to access a group of items for consumption. Cost and environmental considerations dictate that such cartons or carriers be formed from as little material as possible and that the materials formed result in as little waste as possible. Additional considerations are the strength of the carton and the suitability of the carton to hold and transport the weight of the grouped goods. It is desirable that the contents of the carton be securely held by the carton and that the carton or carrier be easy for the consumer to grasp and carry.

[0003] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide an article carrier for substantially cylindrical articles that has a minimal profile, improved article retention, and / or reduced deformation. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] The present invention seeks to provide improvements in the field of cartons, which are typically formed from paperboard or the like. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] A first aspect of the present invention provides an article carrier for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises a main panel with an opening for receiving at least one article. The opening comprises an article receiving aperture and an annular series of tabs formed around the article receiving aperture. The annular series of tabs comprises at least one first tab having a first folding resistance and at least one second tab having a second folding resistance. The second folding resistance is lower than the first folding resistance.

[0006] Advantageously, providing tabs with a higher relative fold resistance in selected areas of the main panel (such as, but not limited to, providing tabs with a higher fold resistance in an interior or central area of ​​the main panel than tabs located around the exterior or peripheral areas) may improve or facilitate folding of the exterior tabs and reduce undesirable or unsightly deformation of certain areas of the main panel (such as, but not limited to, the exterior or peripheral areas of the main panel).

[0007] Optionally, the at least one first tab and the at least one second tab each have an angular width, the angular width of the first tab equal to the angular width of the second tab, and the second tab having a hinge connection with the main panel having more weakening elements than a hinge connection between the at least one first tab and the main panel.

[0008] Optionally, the at least one first tab comprises a first hinge connection with the main panel having at least one connecting bridge, the at least one first connecting bridge having a first overall length, and the at least one second tab comprises a second hinge connection with the main panel having at least one second connecting bridge, the at least one second connecting bridge having a second overall length, the second overall length or combined length being less than the first overall length or combined length.

[0009] Optionally, the second hinge connection with the main panel comprises a plurality of second connection bridges, the plurality of second connection bridges having a combined second length, the combined second length being less than the first overall length.

[0010] Optionally, the at least one first tab is an internal tooth disposed about an interior region of the article receiving aperture.

[0011] Optionally, the at least one second tab is an external tine disposed around an outer region of the article receiving aperture.

[0012] Optionally, the external teeth are diametrically opposed to the internal teeth.

[0013] Optionally, the internal teeth are positioned closer to the second article receiving aperture or article engaging structure of the adjacently disposed opening than the external teeth.

[0014] Optionally, the external teeth may be positioned such that a notional line passes through the center of the opening and an apex defined by the adjacent side and end edges of the main panel is collinear with the side edges of the external teeth.

[0015] Optionally, the main panel includes a handle opening at least partially defined by at least one handle flap hinged to the main panel, the at least one handle flap configured to fold toward the at least one first tab.

[0016] Optionally, the at least one handle flap comprises a first handle flap and a second handle flap hingedly connected to the main panel by respective hinge connections, the first handle flap folded toward the at least one first tab of the first opening of the main panel and the second handle flap folded toward the at least one first tab of the second opening of the main panel.

[0017] Optionally, at least one of the article receiving apertures is a corner aperture, and at least one of the first and second tabs is defined by radial cut lines, the radial cut lines of the second tabs being disposed across respective corners of the main panel such that the radial cut lines extend from the corner aperture toward the corners of the main panel.

[0018] A second aspect of the present invention provides a top-engaging type article carrier for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises an engagement panel having at least one article engagement structure. The at least one article engagement structure comprises an article receiving aperture and an annular set of teeth formed around the article receiving aperture. The annular set of teeth includes a first tooth disposed between a pair of second teeth. Each tooth of the annular set of teeth is defined, at least in part, by a pair of T-cuts. The T-cuts are defined by radial cut lines and a first circumferential cut line. The first teeth include a second circumferential cut line disposed between an adjacent pair of the first circumferential cut lines.

[0019] A third aspect of the present invention provides a top-engaging type article carrier for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises an engagement panel having at least one article engagement structure. The at least one article engagement structure comprises an article receiving aperture and an annular set of teeth formed around the article receiving aperture. The annular set of teeth includes a second tooth disposed between a pair of first teeth. Each tooth of the annular set of teeth is defined, at least in part, by a pair of T-cuts. The T-cuts are defined by a radial cut line and a first circumferential cut line. Each of the pair of first teeth includes a second circumferential cut line disposed between the pair of first circumferential cut lines.

[0020] A fourth aspect of the present invention provides a top-engagement type article carrier for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises an engagement panel having at least two article engagement structures. Each of the at least two article engagement structures comprises an article receiving aperture and an annular set of teeth disposed around the article receiving aperture. Each tooth of the annular set of teeth is defined, at least in part, by a pair of T-cuts. The T-cuts are defined by a radial cut line and a first circumferential cut line. The annular set of teeth of a first structure of the at least two article engagement structures comprises a first tooth disposed adjacent to at least one second tooth. The annular set of teeth of a second structure of the at least two article engagement structures comprises a first tooth disposed adjacent to at least one second tooth. The first tooth of each of the first and second article engagement structures comprises a second circumferential cut line disposed between the pair of first circumferential cut lines. A first tine of a first of the at least two article engaging structures is bisected by a notional line passing through a center of an article receiving aperture of the first of the at least two article engaging structures. The notional line passes through a center of an article receiving aperture of a second of the at least two article engaging structures and bisects the first tine of the second of the at least two article engaging structures.

[0021] A fifth aspect of the present invention provides a top-engaging type article carrier for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises an engagement panel having at least two article engagement structures. Each of the at least two article engagement structures comprises an article receiving aperture and an annular series of teeth formed around the article receiving aperture. Each of the teeth is defined, at least in part, by a pair of T-cuts. The T-cuts include a radial cut line and a first circumferential cut line. The annular series of teeth of a first of the at least two article engagement structures comprises a pair of first teeth separated by the first T-cut. The annular series of teeth of a second of the at least two article engagement structures comprises at least one second tooth. The at least one second tooth includes a second circumferential cut line disposed between the pair of first circumferential cut lines. The second circumferential cut line of the second tooth is disposed on an opposite side of the T-cut separating the pair of first teeth.

[0022] Optionally, a notional line passing through a center of an article receiving aperture of a first article engaging structure of the at least two article engaging structures and a center of an article receiving aperture of a second article engaging structure of the at least two article engaging structures bisects the second tooth, the notional line being collinear with a radial portion of the first T-cut and bisecting a first circumferential cut line of the first T-cut.

[0023] A sixth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a main panel having an opening for receiving at least one article. The opening comprises an article receiving aperture and an annular series of tabs formed around the article receiving aperture. The annular series of tabs comprises at least one first tab having a first folding resistance and at least one second tab having a second folding resistance. The second folding resistance is lower than the first folding resistance.

[0024] A seventh aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises an engagement panel having at least one article engaging structure. The at least one article engaging structure comprises an article receiving aperture and an annular series of teeth formed about the article receiving aperture. The annular series of teeth includes a first tooth disposed between a pair of second teeth. Each tooth in the annular series of teeth is defined, at least in part, by a pair of T-cuts. The T-cuts are defined by radial cut lines and a first circumferential cut line. The first teeth include a second circumferential cut line disposed between an adjacent pair of the first circumferential cut lines.

[0025] An eighth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises an engagement panel having at least one article engagement structure. The at least one article engagement structure comprises an article receiving aperture and an annular series of teeth formed around the article receiving aperture. The annular series of teeth includes a second tooth disposed between a pair of first teeth. Each tooth of the annular series of teeth is defined, at least in part, by a pair of T-cuts. The T-cuts are defined by a radial cut line and a first circumferential cut line. Each of the pair of first teeth includes a second circumferential cut line disposed between the pair of first circumferential cut lines.

[0026] A ninth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises an engagement panel having at least two article engaging structures. Each of the at least two article engaging structures comprises an article receiving aperture and an annular set of teeth disposed about the article receiving aperture. Each tooth of the annular set of teeth is defined, at least in part, by a pair of T-cuts. The T-cuts are defined by a radial cut line and a first circumferential cut line. The annular set of teeth of a first structure of the at least two article engaging structures comprises a first tooth disposed adjacent to at least one second tooth. The annular set of teeth of a second structure of the at least two article engaging structures comprises a first tooth disposed adjacent to at least one second tooth. The first tooth of each of the first and second article engaging structures comprises a second circumferential cut line disposed between the pair of first circumferential cut lines. A first tine of a first of the at least two article engaging structures is bisected by a notional line passing through a center of an article receiving aperture of the first of the at least two article engaging structures. The notional line passes through a center of an article receiving aperture of a second of the at least two article engaging structures and bisects the first tine of the second of the at least two article engaging structures.

[0027] A tenth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises an engagement panel having at least two article engaging structures. Each of the at least two article engaging structures comprises an article receiving aperture and an annular series of teeth formed around the article receiving aperture. Each of the teeth is defined, at least in part, by a pair of T-cuts. The T-cuts include a radial cut line and a first circumferential cut line. The annular series of teeth of a first of the at least two article engaging structures comprises a pair of first teeth separated by the first T-cut. The annular series of teeth of a second of the at least two article engaging structures comprises at least one second tooth. The at least one second tooth comprises a second circumferential cut line disposed between the pair of first circumferential cut lines. The second circumferential cut line of the second tooth is disposed on an opposite side of the T-cut separating the pair of first teeth.

[0028] It is contemplated or intended that within the scope of this application, the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternatives described in the preceding paragraphs, claims, and / or in the following description and drawings may be considered or considered independently or in any combination thereof.

[0029] Features or elements described in connection with one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments, unless the features are incompatible. One or more features or elements of one embodiment can be incorporated or combined with any of the other embodiments disclosed herein, and features or elements extracted from one embodiment may be included in addition to or instead of one or more features or elements of the other embodiments.

[0030] Any feature or combination of features of an embodiment disclosed herein may be extracted in isolation from other features of that embodiment, or any feature or combination of features of an embodiment may be omitted from that embodiment. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0031] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0032] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming an article carrier according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] 2 is a top perspective view of an article carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 1; FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 11 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming an article carrier according to a second embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 11 is a top plan view of a blank for forming an article carrier according to a third embodiment. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 is a top plan view of a blank for forming an article carrier according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 is a top plan view of a blank for forming an article carrier according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 7] FIG. 13 is a top plan view of a blank for forming an article carrier according to a sixth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0033] Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of packages, blanks, and carriers are disclosed herein. It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of ways in which certain aspects of the invention can be implemented, and do not represent an exhaustive list of all ways in which the invention can be implemented. As used herein, the word "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 carriers described herein can be embodied in a variety of alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale, and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of specific components. Well-known components, materials, or methods have not necessarily been described in detail to avoid obscuring the disclosure. 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 one skilled in the art to use the invention in various ways.

[0034] Referring to Figure 1, there is shown a plan view of a blank 10 from which a carton or carrier 90 as shown in Figure 2 can be formed. The carrier 90 is suitable for containing and transporting a group of such primary products, hereinafter referred to as articles B, such as but not limited to bottles or cans. The blank 10 forms a secondary package 90 for packaging at least one primary product container B. Alternative blanks 110; 210; 310; 410; 510 are shown in Figures 3 to 7, respectively, for forming alternative cartons or carriers (not shown).

[0035] In the embodiments detailed herein, the terms "carton" and "carrier" refer to a container for engaging and carrying an article, such as a primary product container (Article B), for non-limiting purposes of illustrating various features of the present invention. It is contemplated that the teachings of the present invention are applicable to a variety of product containers that may or may not be tapered and / or cylindrical. Exemplary containers include bottles (e.g., metal, glass, or plastic bottles), cans (e.g., aluminum cans), TIN cans, pouches, packets, and the like.

[0036] The blanks 10;110;210;310;410;510 are formed from sheets of suitable substrate. It should be understood that the term "suitable substrate" as used herein includes any type of foldable sheet material, such as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, etc. It should be recognized that one or more blanks may be used, as appropriate, to provide, for example, the carrier structure 90, which is described in more detail below.

[0037] The packaging structure or carton 90 described herein can be formed from sheet materials such as paperboard and can be made or coated with materials to enhance strength. One example of such sheet material is tear-resistant NATRALOCK® paperboard manufactured by WESTROCK COMPANY. It should be noted that the tear-resistant material can be provided in multiple layers to improve the tear resistance of the package. In general, one surface of the sheet material can have different properties than the other surface. For example, the surface of the sheet material facing the outside of the finished package can be particularly smooth and have a coating such as a clay coating or other surface treatment to provide good printability. Meanwhile, the surface of the sheet material facing the inside can be coated, layered, treated, or otherwise prepared to provide one or more of, for example, tear resistance, good adhesion, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties.

[0038] In the illustrated embodiment, the blanks 10;110;210;310;410;510 are configured to form a carton or carrier 90 for packing an exemplary arrangement of exemplary items B. In the illustrated embodiment, the arrangement is a 4×2 matrix or array. In the illustrated embodiment, four rows of two items are provided, and items B are beverage cans. Alternatively, the blanks 10;110;210;310;410;510 may be configured to form carriers for packing other types, numbers and sizes of items and / or for packing items in different arrangements or configurations.

[0039] Figure 1 illustrates a first embodiment, showing a blank 10 for forming an article carrier 90 shown in Figure 2. The carrier 90 takes the form of an upper gripping clip. The article carrier 90 includes an opening configured to receive an article B. The opening is configured to accommodate a neck or upper portion of the article B over the body and / or shoulders of the article B.

[0040] The blank 10 includes a main or engagement panel 12. The main panel 12 of the blank 10 includes at least one article retaining structure RT1, RT2. The main panel 12 includes a plurality of article retaining structures RT1, RT2, specifically, eight article retaining structures RT1, RT2 arranged in a 2×4 matrix or array. Each of the article retaining structures RT1, RT2 includes an article receiving aperture AP about which a plurality of teeth or tabs 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D may be disposed. Each of the teeth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D is punched from and hingedly connected to the engagement panel 12. Each of the teeth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D may be defined in part by a pair of cut lines 15A, 15B. The cut lines 15A, 15B extend generally radially outward from a center of the article receiving aperture AP. The teeth or tabs 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D are arranged in a series of annular segments around and form part of the article receiving aperture AP.

[0041] A plurality of tines 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D are provided by the main panel 12. Each of the tines 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D is hingedly connected to the main panel 12 by a hinge connection. The hinge connection may be defined by a plurality of cut lines 9A, 9B, 11. The plurality of cut lines 9A, 9B, 11 may be arranged as a circular series of cuts around the article receiving aperture AP.

[0042] The multiple cut lines 9A, 9B, 11 may define or approximate a portion of a circle.

[0043] The blank 10 includes four endmost article retaining structures RT1, each with an article receiving aperture AP. The blank 10 includes four intermediate or middle article retaining structures RT2, each with an article receiving aperture AP.

[0044] The endmost article retaining structure RT1 includes an article receiving aperture defined in the main panel 12 or partially defined by an article receiving aperture AP punched out from the main panel 12.

[0045] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes an article receiving aperture defined in the main panel 12 or partially defined by an article receiving aperture AP punched out from the main panel 12.

[0046] The article retention structures RT1, RT2 are preferably provided with teeth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D with different folding resistances. It has been found that providing teeth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D around the inner region of the article receiving aperture AP (the portion of the article receiving aperture AP located on the inner side of the main panel 12) to provide a hinge connection with increased folding resistance facilitates folding of the teeth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D around the outer region of the article receiving aperture AP (the portion of the article receiving aperture AP close to the side or end edge of the main panel 12). It is believed that this arrangement of the teeth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D may concentrate or focus stresses or forces on the teeth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D close to the side or end edge of the main panel 12 (also referred to herein as the outer teeth) when an article B is inserted into the article receiving aperture.

[0047] The article retention structures RT1, RT2 include an annular series of teeth having various folding resistances, where the folding resistance of one or more teeth closer to the outer periphery of the blank 10 is less than the folding resistance of one or more teeth located further from the outer periphery of the blank 10.

[0048] The endmost article retaining structure RT1 includes a first plurality of teeth or tabs 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D disposed around the article receiving aperture AP, as best shown in FIG. 1. Each of the first plurality of teeth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D includes an engagement edge opposite the hinged edge. The engagement edge is defined by a portion of the cut line that defines the article receiving aperture AP, and the portion of the cut line that defines the article receiving aperture AP may be straight. Each engagement edge may define a portion of a polygon. The illustrated embodiment includes sixteen teeth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D that together define a substantial portion of a hexagon. The endmost article retaining structure RT1 includes six first teeth 14A, four second teeth 14B, two third teeth 14C, and four fourth teeth 14D. Each of the first, second, third, and fourth teeth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D may occupy substantially the same circumferential region or portion of the article receiving aperture AP. Each tooth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D includes a pair of side edges defined by cut lines 15A, 15B extending radially outward from respective vertices of a hexagon forming the article receiving aperture AP, i.e., from respective vertices between a pair of adjacent straight portions of the cut lines defining a portion of the hexagon. The cut lines 15A, 15B are divergently disposed relative to one another and define an angle therebetween, which may be approximately 22.5°. Each tooth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D disposed about the periphery of the article receiving aperture AP has the same angular width as the other teeth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D, and the engaging edges of teeth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D are of equal length.

[0049] The endmost article retaining structure RT1 includes a plurality of first circumferential cut lines 9A, each of which is aligned with one of the first radial cut lines 15A such that one of the first radial cut lines 15A, or a notional extension thereof, bisects each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 9A.

[0050] Each radial cut line 15A is spaced apart from a corresponding one of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 9A. Each first radial cut line 15A is positioned to bisect one of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 9A. In this manner, a connecting nick or bridge is provided between adjacent pairs of teeth 14A, 14B, 14C that share a common first radial cut line 15A. The first radial cut lines 15A and the first circumferential cut lines 9A define an interrupted T-shaped cut.

[0051] Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 9A may be a straight line.

[0052] Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 9A is substantially the same length, i.e., occupies an equal portion of the circumference of the article receiving aperture.

[0053] The endmost article retaining structure RT1 includes a plurality of second circumferential cut lines 9B. Each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 9B is aligned with one of the second radial cut lines 15B such that one of the second radial cut lines 15B bisects each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 9B. The second radial cut lines 15A and the second circumferential cut lines 9B form a connected T-shaped cut. A pair of adjacent teeth 14C, 14D sharing a common second radial cut line 15B are spaced apart from each other.

[0054] Each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 9B may be a straight line.

[0055] Each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 9B is substantially the same length, i.e., occupies an equal portion of the circumference of the article receiving aperture.

[0056] The second circumferential cut line 9B may be substantially the same length as the first circumferential cut line 9A, ie, occupy an equal portion of the circumference of the article receiving aperture.

[0057] The endmost article retaining structure RT1 includes a plurality of third circumferential cut lines 11. Each of the plurality of third circumferential cut lines 11 is spaced apart between a pair of the first or second circumferential cut lines 9A, 9B and defines a pair of connecting nicks or bridge portions between the respective second, third and fourth teeth 14B, 14C, 14D and the main panel 12. The pair of connecting nicks or bridge portions provides a hinged or foldable connection between the respective second, third and fourth teeth 14B, 14C, 14D and the main panel 12.

[0058] Each of the plurality of third circumferential cut lines 11 may be a straight line.

[0059] The third circumferential cut line 11 has the effect of shortening the length of uninterrupted or unbroken material disposed between a pair of first or second circumferential cut lines 9A, 9B that connects the second tooth 14B to the main panel 12. The first tooth 14A is connected to the main panel 12 by a connecting bridge portion that is longer than the combined or cumulative length of the connecting bridge portions or nicks that connect the second tooth 14B, the third tooth 14C, and the fourth tooth 14D to the main panel 12.

[0060] Because there is less substrate material connecting the second tine 14B to the main panel 12, the second tine has less resistance to folding, i.e., the force required to fold the second tine 14B is less than the force required to fold the first tine 14A.

[0061] In alternative embodiments, each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 9A may be arcuate or curved. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 9B may be arcuate or curved. In various embodiments, each of the plurality of third circumferential cut lines 11 may be arcuate or curved.

[0062] The endmost article retaining structure RT1 includes a plurality of first teeth 14A extending around or occupying a first arc. The first arc defines a sector that defines a first angle θ. The first angle θ may be approximately 135°, or equivalent to six teeth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D. Each first tooth 14A includes or is defined by a pair of first radial cut lines 15A and a pair of first circumferential cut lines 9A. The first sector is defined between a first notional line N1 and a second notional line N2, and neither the first notional line N1 nor the second notional line N2 passes through the article receiving aperture AP of the adjacently disposed article retaining structure RT1, RT2. That is, the first notional line N1 does not pass through or intersect the article receiving aperture AP of the adjacently disposed endmost article retaining structure RT1. The second notional line N2 does not pass through or intersect the article receiving aperture AP of the adjacently disposed intermediate article retaining structure RT2.

[0063] The endmost article retaining structure RT1 includes a plurality of fourth teeth 14D extending around or occupying a second arc. The second arc defines a sector that defines a range of a second angle ω. The second angle ω may be approximately 90° or equivalent to four teeth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D. Each fourth tooth 14D includes or is defined by a pair of second radial cut lines 15B, a pair of second circumferential cut lines 9B, and at least one third circumferential cut line 11. In the illustrated embodiment, each fourth tooth 14D includes or is defined by a single third circumferential cut line 11. In alternative embodiments, two or more third circumferential cut lines 11 may define a hinge connection between the fourth tooth 14D and the main panel 12. The second sector is defined between a third notional line N3 and a fourth notional line N4, each passing through the center of the aperture AP of each item retention structure. The third notional line N3 passes through and is perpendicular to an edge of the main panel 12. The fourth notional line N4 passes through and is perpendicular to a side edge of the main panel 12.

[0064] The third notional line N3 may be coincident or collinear with the radial cut 15B of the connected T-cut 15B / 9B. The fourth notional line N4 may be coincident or collinear with the radial cut 15B of the connected T-cut 15B / 9B.

[0065] The endmost article retaining structure RT1 includes a plurality of second teeth 14B arranged in two separate groups each extending around or occupying a third and fourth arc. The third and fourth arcs define respective sectors that define a third angle. The third angle may be approximately 45° or equivalent to two teeth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D. Each second tooth 14B includes or is defined by a pair of first radial cut lines 15A and a pair of first circumferential cut lines 9A. In the illustrated embodiment, the first arc or sector is disposed between the third and fourth arcs or sectors.

[0066] The endmost article retaining structure RT1 includes a plurality of third teeth 14C arranged in two separate groups each extending around or occupying a fifth and sixth arc. The fifth and sixth arcs define respective sectors defining a fourth angle. The fourth angle may be approximately 22.5°, or equivalent to one tooth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D. Each third tooth 14C includes or is defined by a first radial cut line 15A, a first circumferential cut line 9A, a second radial cut line 15B, and a second circumferential cut line 9B, and at least one third circumferential cut line 11. In the illustrated embodiment, each third tooth 14C includes or is defined by a single third circumferential cut line 11. In alternative embodiments, two or more third circumferential cut lines 11 may define the hinge connection between the third tooth 14C and the main panel 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the second arc or sector is disposed between the fifth and sixth arcs or sectors.

[0067] Each of the fifth and sixth arcs or sectors is disposed between the second arc or sector and one of the third and fourth arcs or sectors.

[0068] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes a second plurality of teeth or tabs 14A, 14B disposed around the article receiving aperture AP. Each of the second plurality of teeth 14A, 14B includes an engagement edge opposite the hinged edge. The engagement edge is defined by a portion of the cut line defining the article receiving aperture AP, and said portion of the cut line defining the article receiving aperture AP may be straight. Each engagement edge may define a portion of a polygon. The illustrated embodiment includes sixteen teeth 14A, 14B that together define a substantial portion of a hexagon. The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes eight first teeth 14A and eight second teeth 14B. Each of the first and second teeth 14A, 14B may occupy substantially the same circumferential area or portion of the article receiving aperture AP. Each tooth 14A, 14B includes a pair of side edges defined by cuts 15A extending radially outward from respective vertices of the hexagon forming the article receiving aperture AP, i.e., between a pair of adjacent linear portions of the cuts defining a portion of the hexagon. The cuts 15A are configured divergently relative to one another and define an angle therebetween, which may be approximately 22.5°.

[0069] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes a plurality of first circumferential cut lines 9A each of which is aligned with one of the first radial cut lines 15A such that the first radial cut lines 15A, or a notional extension thereof, bisects a respective one of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 9A.

[0070] Each radial cut line 15A is spaced apart from a corresponding one of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 9A. Each first radial cut line 15A is positioned to bisect one of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 9A. In this manner, a connecting nick or bridge is provided between a pair of adjacently disposed teeth 14A, 14B that share a common first radial cut line 15A. The first radial cut lines 15A and the first circumferential cut lines 9A define an interrupted T-shaped cut.

[0071] Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 9A may be a straight line.

[0072] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes a plurality of third circumferential cut lines 11. Each of the plurality of third circumferential cut lines 11 is disposed between a pair of the first circumferential cut lines 9A and spaced therefrom to define a pair of connecting nicks or bridge portions between each second tine 14B and the main panel 12. The pair of connecting nicks or bridge portions provide a hinged or foldable connection between each second tine 14B and the main panel 12.

[0073] Each of the plurality of third circumferential cut lines 11 may be a straight line.

[0074] In the illustrated embodiment, the intermediate article retaining structure RT2 does not include a connected T-cut, however, in alternative embodiments, the intermediate article retaining structure RT2 may include a connected T-cut.

[0075] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes a plurality of first teeth 14A arranged in two separate groups extending around or occupying first and second arcs, respectively. The first and second arcs define respective sectors that define a first angle. The first angle may be approximately 90°, or equivalent to four teeth 14A. Each first tooth 14A includes or is defined by a pair of first radial cut lines 15A and a pair of first circumferential cut lines 9A.

[0076] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes a plurality of second teeth 14B arranged in two separate groups extending around or occupying third and fourth arcs, respectively. The third and fourth arcs define sectors that respectively define second and third angles. The second angle may be approximately 157.5°, or equivalent to seven teeth 14B. The third angle may be approximately 22.5°, or equivalent to one tooth 14B. Each second tooth 14B includes or is defined by a pair of first radial cut lines 15A, a pair of first circumferential cut lines 9A, and at least one third circumferential cut line 11.

[0077] In the illustrated embodiment, the third and fourth arcs are disposed on substantially opposite sides of the article receiving aperture AP. A notional line N4 that bisects the third and fourth arcs is substantially perpendicular to the side edge of the main panel 12, i.e., oriented laterally.

[0078] In the illustrated embodiment, the third arc or sector is disposed between the first and second arcs or sectors and substantially faces a side edge of the main panel 12 .

[0079] 1 shows fifth and sixth notional lines N5, N6 that extend radially from the center of the article receiving aperture AP through the center of the respective outermost second teeth 14B that define the third arc or sector. Neither the fifth nor the sixth notional lines N5, N6 pass through or intersect the article receiving aperture AP of the adjacently disposed article retaining structures RT1, RT2. In this manner, at least half of each second tooth 14B disposed around the third arc faces substantially away from the article receiving aperture AP of the adjacently disposed article retaining structures RT1, RT2.

[0080] Each of the second teeth 14B disposed about the third arc may be considered to substantially face the proximal free side edge of the main panel 12.

[0081] In the illustrated embodiment, the fourth arc or sector is located between the first arc or sector and the second arc or sector and substantially faces the central portion of the adjacently located intermediate article retaining structure RT2 or main panel 12.

[0082] The arrangement of teeth 14A, 14B, the cutting pattern of radial cut lines 15A of the intermediate article retaining structure RT2 is rotated about the center of the article receiving aperture AP with respect to the arrangement of teeth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14B, or the cutting pattern of radial cut lines 15A, 15B around the article receiving aperture AP of the endmost article retaining structure RT1. The endmost article retaining structure RT1 is rotated by an angle β with respect to the intermediate article retaining structure RT2. The rotation angle β may correspond to approximately 11.25°, or half the teeth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14B.

[0083] The endmost article retaining structure RT1 has a first radial cut line 15A located on a notional line N3 extending longitudinally of the blank 10. The notional line N3 passes through the center of a first tooth 14A of the adjacently disposed intermediate article retaining structure RT2.

[0084] The endmost article retaining structure RT1 has a second first radial cut line 15A located on a notional line N4 extending laterally of the blank 10, said notional line N4 coinciding or being in the same line as the first radial cut line 15A of the first tooth 14A of the adjacent endmost article retaining structure RT1.

[0085] One of the second radial cut lines 15B is on a notional line N8 that passes through the center C of the article receiving aperture AP and through an actual or notional corner of the engagement panel 12, the actual or notional corner being defined by the intersection of a pair of notional lines that are collinear with each of the end and side edges of the main panel 12.

[0086] The endmost article retaining structure RT1 has a first and second radial cut line 15B located on a notional line N3 extending longitudinally of the blank 10, the first and second radial cut line 15B being oriented perpendicular to the edge of the engagement panel 12 and parallel to the longitudinal axis of the engagement panel 12.

[0087] The endmost article retaining structure RT1 has a second radial cut line 15B located on a notional line N4 extending laterally of the blank 10, the second radial cut line 15B being oriented perpendicular to the side edge of the engagement panel 12 and perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the engagement panel 12.

[0088] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 has a first tooth 14A located on a notional line N3 extending in the longitudinal direction of the blank 10, which notional longitudinal line N3 bisects the first tooth 14A and bisects the first tooth 14A of the adjacently arranged intermediate article retaining structure RT2.

[0089] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 defines a fourth arc or sector and has a second tooth 14B located on a notional line N4 extending laterally of the blank 10, the notional transverse line N4 bisects the second tooth 14B (and optionally its third circumferential cut line 11) and also bisects the second tooth 14B (and optionally its respective third circumferential cut line 11) of the adjacently disposed intermediate article retaining structure RT2.

[0090] In this way, a pair of longitudinally adjacent intermediate article holding structures RT2 includes a pair of first teeth 14A that are closest to each other, while a pair of laterally adjacent intermediate article holding structures RT2 includes a pair of second teeth 14B that are closest to each other. The first teeth 14A are hinged to the main panel 12 by a hinge joint that has a greater folding resistance than the hinge joint that hinges the second teeth 14B to the main panel 12. The at least one third cut line 11 may have the effect of reducing the folding resistance. By employing the connected T-cuts 15B / 9B, the effect of reducing the folding resistance may also be obtained.

[0091] It has been found that locating a pair of adjacent intermediate article retaining structures RT2 having second teeth 14B closest to one another improves retention of the article B within the article retaining structures RT2.

[0092] In the illustrated embodiment, the folding resistance is increased or decreased by the presence or absence of at least one third cut line 11 and / or the selection of connected T-cuts 15B / 9B or non-connected T-cuts 15A / 9A. In alternative embodiments, folding resistance may be controlled by using alternative devices such as, but not limited to, adjusting the length of the cut lines or at least one third cut line 11; shortening the third cut line 11 increases the length of the connecting bridges or nicks between teeth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D and therefore increases folding resistance.

[0093] The blank 10 may include a handle structure having one, two, three or more spaced apart handle or finger openings.

[0094] The handle or finger opening is located on a longitudinal axis that bisects the engagement panel 12 .

[0095] The first opening Ha1 is provided between a first group of four item holding structures RT1, RT2. The first group of four item holding structures RT1, RT2 is provided adjacent to a first end of the engagement panel 12. The first opening Ha1 is disposed between the endmost item holding structure RT1 of the first row and the middle item holding structure RT2 of the second row. The first opening Ha1 is located in the center of the first group of four item holding structures RT1, RT2.

[0096] The second opening Ha2 is provided between the second group of four article holding structures RT2. The second group of four article holding structures RT2 is provided in the center of the engagement panel 12. The second opening Ha2 is disposed between the intermediate article holding structure RT2 in the second row and the intermediate article holding structure RT2 in the third row. The second opening Ha2 is located at the center C of the second group of four article holding structures RT2.

[0097] The third opening Ha3 is provided between the third group of four article holding structures RT1, RT2. The third group of four article holding structures RT1, RT2 is provided adjacent to the second end of the engagement panel 12. The third opening Ha3 is disposed between the middle article holding structure RT2 of the third row and the endmost article holding structure RT1 of the fourth row. The third opening Ha3 is located in the center of the third group of four article holding structures RT1, RT2.

[0098] The first opening Ha1, the second opening Ha2 and the third opening Ha3 are at least partially located between the first row of item holding structures RT1, RT2 and the second row of item holding structures RT1, RT2.

[0099] The first opening Ha1, the second opening Ha2, and the third opening Ha3 are generally positioned surrounding or closest to the first tooth 14A of the article retaining structures RT1, RT2, which may be advantageous to increase the strength, resilience, or integrity of the main panel 12 when a user uses the handle structure.

[0100] Each of the handle openings Ha1, Ha2, Ha3 is defined by a plurality of tabs 60, 62, 64, 66, 70, 72. The first handle opening Ha1 and the third handle opening Ha3 are substantially similar in construction to one another, although they are mirror images thereof.

[0101] The first handle opening Ha1 and the third handle Ha3 include two tabs 70, 72. Each tab 70, 72 is hinged to the engagement panel 12 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 73, 75. The first tab 70 is separated from the second tab 72 by a first cut line or severable line 81. Each of the first and second tabs 70, 72 includes a fold line, which may be defined in part by a cut. The cut may be positioned to be spaced apart from, and optionally parallel to, the respective fold lines 73, 75 that hinge the first and second tabs 70, 72 to the engagement panel 12. Each of the first and second tabs 70, 72 may be defined in part by a generally V-shaped cut line 77, 79.

[0102] The first and second tabs 70, 72 of the first and third handle openings Ha1, Ha3, respectively, are arranged to fold toward approximately the center of the main panel 12. The first tab 70 is folded toward one of the intermediate article retaining structures RT2 in the first row, and the second tab 72 is folded toward one of the intermediate article retaining structures RT2 in the second row.

[0103] Each of the handle openings Ha1, Ha2, Ha3 is substantially rhombus or diamond shaped, although in other embodiments other shapes may be used, such as but not limited to square.

[0104] The second handle opening Ha2 includes four tabs 60, 62, 64, 66. Each tab 60, 62, 64, 66 is hingedly attached to the engagement panel 12 by a hinge connection in the form of fold lines 61, 63, 65, 67. An arcuate or curved cut line may be provided between a pair of fold lines 61, 63, 65, 67 to define a corner or apex of the handle opening Ha2. The second handle opening Ha2 includes a pair of major tabs 60, 62 and a pair of minor tabs 64, 66.

[0105] The first major tab 60 is separated from the second major tab 62 by a first cut line or severable line 69. The first minor tab 64 is separated from the second minor tab 66 by a first cut line or severable line 69.

[0106] The first and second minor tabs 64 , 66 are separated from the first and second major tabs 60 , 62 by second cut or severable lines 71 .

[0107] The first cut line 69 is collinear with a notional line passing through the centres C of the group of four intermediate article retaining structures RT2.

[0108] The first cut line 69 may be straight in shape and may extend between a first pair of opposing vertices of the handle openings Ha1, Ha2, Ha3.

[0109] The second cut line 71 may be non-linear in shape and may extend between a second pair of opposing apexes of the handle openings Ha1, Ha2, Ha3. The second cut line 71 intersects the first cut line 69, and the second cut line 71 includes a middle portion of an inverted “V” shape, where the apex of the “V” shaped portion intersects with the first cut line 69.

[0110] The first major tab 60 is hinged to the engagement panel 12 by a first fold line 61. The second major tab 62 is hinged to the engagement panel 12 by a second fold line 63.

[0111] The first minor tab 64 is hinged to the engagement panel 12 by a third fold line 65. The second minor tab 66 is hinged to the engagement panel 12 by a fourth fold line 67.

[0112] The first fold line 61 is disposed divergently with respect to the second fold line 63 .

[0113] The first fold line 61 is disposed divergently with respect to the third fold line 65 .

[0114] The second fold line 63 is disposed divergently with respect to the fourth fold line 67 .

[0115] The third fold line 65 is disposed divergently with respect to the fourth fold line 67 .

[0116] The first and second main tabs 60, 62 of the second handle opening Ha2 are arranged to be folded toward one of the intermediate article holding structures RT2 in the second row of the article holding structures RT1, RT2, and the first and second minor tabs 64, 66 of the second handle opening Ha2 are arranged to be folded toward one of the intermediate article holding structures RT2 in the third row of the article holding structures RT1, RT2.

[0117] Optionally, blank 10 includes a first recess or notch R1 stamped out from a first side edge (see FIG. 1 ). First finger recess or notch R1 is located on a notional line extending laterally across blank 10 and bisecting blank 10. In this manner, first finger recess or notch R1 is located between the second and third rows of article retaining structures RT2.

[0118] Optionally, the blank 10 includes a second finger recess or notch R2 stamped out from a second side edge opposite the first side edge. The second finger recess or notch R2 is located on a notional line extending laterally across the blank 10 and bisecting the blank 10. In this manner, the second finger recess or notch R2 is located between the second and third rows of the article retaining structures RT2.

[0119] The second handle opening Ha2 is collinear with the first and second finger recesses R1, R2.

[0120] The blank 10 forms a carrier 90, with the blank 10 below the group of articles B. Each opening in the retaining structures RT1, RT2 receives one of the articles B forming the group. The closed or top end of the article B passes through the opening. The tabs 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D are folded out of the plane of the engagement panel 12. The tabs 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D are folded upwards and engage the article B below a flange or projection extending radially outward from the neck of the article B. As best shown in FIG. 2, the tabs 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D support the article B and prevent it from being moved or pulled out of the opening.

[0121] The connected T-cut 15B / 9B provided by the second radial cut line 15B and the second circumferential cut line 9B relieves stress in the corner regions of the main panel 12. The lack of a connection between the fourth teeth 14D has been found to reduce the likelihood of a tear propagating within the main panel 12.

[0122] The connection nicks between the first, second, and third teeth 14B, 14C, 14D may increase the bias of the tabs 14B, 14C, 14D against the article B to enhance security of the article B within the article receiving structures RT1, RT2 and improve retention of the article.

[0123] 3-7, additional embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. In the illustrated second, third, fourth, and fifth embodiments, where possible, the prefixes "100", "200", "300", "400", "500" indicate that these features belong to the second, third, fourth, and fifth embodiments, respectively. Because the additional embodiments share many common features with the first embodiment, only the differences from the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2 will be described in detail.

[0124] FIG. 3 illustrates a second embodiment, showing a blank 110 for forming an article carrier (not shown).

[0125] The blank 110 includes an engagement panel 112. The engagement panel 112 of the blank 110 includes at least one article retaining structure RT1, RT2, with each retaining structure RT1, RT2 providing an article receiving aperture AP for receiving a respective article. The engagement panel 112 includes a plurality of article retaining structures RT1, RT2, specifically, eight article retaining structures RT1, RT2 arranged in a 2×4 matrix or array. Each of the article retaining structures RT1, RT2 includes an opening or aperture AP in which a plurality of tines or tabs 114A, 114B, 114C, 114D may be disposed. Each of the tines 114A, 114B, 114C, 114D is punched from and hingedly connected to the engagement panel 112. Each of the tines 114A, 114B, 114C, 114D may be defined, in part, by a pair of cut lines 115A, 115B. The cut lines 115A, 115B extend radially outward from the center of the article receiving apertures AP1, AP2. The teeth or tabs 114A, 114B, 114C, 114D are arranged in a series of annular shapes around the article receiving aperture AP and form a part of the article receiving aperture.

[0126] A plurality of tines 114A, 114B, 114C, 114D are provided by the main panel 112. Each of the tines 114A, 114B, 114C, 114D is hinged to the main panel 112 by a hinge connection. The hinge connections may be defined by a plurality of cut lines 109A, 109B, 111. The plurality of cut lines 109A, 109B, 111 may be arranged as a circular series of cuts around the article receiving aperture AP.

[0127] The multiple cut lines 109A, 109B, 111 may define or approximate a portion of a circle.

[0128] The blank 110 includes four endmost article retaining structures RT1, each with an article receiving aperture AP. The blank 110 includes four middle or intermediate article retaining structures RT2, each with an article receiving aperture AP.

[0129] The endmost article retaining structure RT1 includes an article receiving aperture defined in the main panel 112 or partially defined by an article receiving aperture AP punched out from the main panel 112.

[0130] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes an article receiving aperture defined in the main panel 112 or partially defined by an article receiving aperture AP projected from the main panel 112.

[0131] The article retention structures RT1, RT2 comprise an annular series of teeth having various folding resistances, with the folding resistance of one or more teeth closer to the outer periphery of the blank 110 generally being less than the folding resistance of one or more teeth located further from the outer periphery of the blank 110.

[0132] The endmost article retaining structure RT1 is substantially similar in structure to the endmost article retaining structure RT1 described in the previous embodiment and / or shown in FIG.

[0133] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes a second plurality of teeth or tabs 114A, 114B disposed around the article receiving aperture AP. Each of the second plurality of teeth 114A, 114B includes an engagement edge opposite the hinged edge. The engagement edge is defined by a portion of the cut line defining the article receiving aperture AP, and said portion of the cut line defining the article receiving aperture AP may be straight. Each engagement edge may define a portion of a polygon. The illustrated embodiment includes sixteen teeth 114A, 114B that together define a substantial portion of a hexagon. The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes eight first teeth 114A and eight second teeth 114B. Each of the first and second teeth 114A, 114B may occupy substantially the same circumferential area or portion of the article receiving aperture AP. Each tooth 114A, 114B includes a pair of side edges defined by cuts 115A extending radially outward from respective vertices of the hexagon forming the article receiving aperture AP, i.e., between a pair of adjacent linear portions of the cuts defining a portion of the hexagon. The cuts 115A are divergently disposed relative to one another and define an angle therebetween, which may be approximately 22.5°.

[0134] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes a plurality of first circumferential cut lines 109A, each of which is aligned with one of the first radial cut lines 115A such that one of the first radial cut lines 115A, or a notional extension thereof, bisects each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 109A.

[0135] Each radial cut line 115A is spaced apart from a corresponding one of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 109A. Each first radial cut line 115A is positioned relative to one of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 109A such that it bisects the first circumferential cut line 109A. In this manner, a connecting nick or bridge is provided between a pair of adjacently positioned teeth 114A, 114B that share a common first radial cut line 115A. The first radial cut line 115A and the first circumferential cut line 109A define a severed T-shaped cut.

[0136] Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 109A may be a straight line.

[0137] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes a plurality of third circumferential cut lines 111. Each of the plurality of third circumferential cut lines 111 is disposed between and spaced apart from the pair of first circumferential cut lines 109A to define a pair of connecting nicks or bridge portions between each second tine 114B and the main panel 112. The pair of connecting nicks or bridge portions provide a hinged or foldable connection between each second tine 114B and the main panel 112.

[0138] Each of the plurality of third circumferential cut lines 111 may be a straight line.

[0139] In the illustrated embodiment, the intermediate article retaining structure RT2 does not include a connected T-cut, however, in alternative embodiments, the intermediate article retaining structure RT2 may include a connected T-cut.

[0140] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes a plurality of first teeth 114A arranged in four separate groups extending around or occupying a first, second, third, and fourth arc, respectively. The first and second arcs define respective sectors that define a first angle. The first angle may be approximately 67.5°, or equivalent to three teeth 114A. The third and fourth arcs define respective sectors that define a second angle. The second angle may be approximately 22.5°, or equivalent to one tooth 114A. Each first tooth 114A includes or is defined by a pair of first radial cut lines 115A and a pair of first circumferential cut lines 109A.

[0141] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes a plurality of second teeth 114B arranged in four separate groups extending around or occupying a fifth, sixth, seventh, and eighth arc, respectively. The fifth arc defines a fifth sector defining a fifth angle. The fifth angle may be approximately 112.5°, or equivalent to five teeth 114B. The sixth, seventh, and eighth arcs define respective sectors each defining a sixth angle. The sixth angle may be approximately 22.5°, or equivalent to one tooth 114B. Each second tooth 114B includes or is defined by a pair of first radial cut lines 115A, a pair of first circumferential cut lines 109A, and at least one third circumferential cut line 111. The sixth arc or sector may be disposed approximately perpendicular to the seventh and eighth arcs or sectors and opposite the fifth sector or sector.

[0142] The sixth, seventh and eighth arcs have second teeth 114B located proximate to adjacently located article retaining structures RT1, RT2. The fifth arc has second teeth 114B located proximate to a side edge of the main panel 112.

[0143] The second teeth 114B of the sixth, seventh and eighth arcs are provided with third circumferential cut lines 111. The third circumferential cut lines 111 are aligned opposite the third circumferential cut lines 111 of the adjacently disposed intermediate article retaining structure RT2 or the first circumferential cut lines 109A of the adjacently disposed endmost article retaining structure RT1.

[0144] A notional line N4 that bisects the fifth and sixth arcs is substantially perpendicular to a side edge of the main panel 112, i.e., oriented laterally. A notional line N3 that bisects the seventh and eighth arcs is substantially perpendicular to an edge of the main panel 112, i.e., oriented longitudinally.

[0145] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 has a second tooth 114B located on a notional line N3 extending in the longitudinal direction of the blank 110, the notional longitudinal line N3 bisects the second tooth 114B and bisects the second tooth 114B of the adjacently arranged intermediate article retaining structure RT2.

[0146] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 defines a sixth arc or sector and has a second tooth 114B located on a notional line N4 extending laterally of the blank 110, the notional transverse line N4 bisects the second tooth 114B (and optionally its third circumferential cut line 111) and also bisects the second tooth 114B (and optionally its respective third circumferential cut line 111) of the adjacently disposed intermediate article retaining structure RT2.

[0147] The embodiment of Figure 1 includes a single second tooth 14B with a first tooth 14A located on either side of a single location around the article receiving aperture AP. The embodiment of Figure 3 includes a single second tooth 114B with a first tooth 114A located on either side of a multiple locations around the article receiving aperture AP, specifically but not limited to three locations. The second teeth 14B, 114B have a lower folding resistance than the first teeth 14A, 114A.

[0148] The embodiment of Figure 3 includes a single first tooth 114A with second teeth 114B disposed on either side at least one location around the periphery of the article receiving aperture AP. The illustrated embodiment includes a single first tooth 114A with second teeth 114B disposed on either side at two locations around the periphery of the article receiving aperture AP.

[0149] In both the embodiments of Figures 1 and 3, the intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes at least one second tooth 14B, 114B around an inner portion or inward facing section of the periphery of the article receiving aperture AP. The at least one second tooth 14B, 114B of the inner portion opposes at least one second tooth 14B, 114B around an outer portion, i.e., an outward facing section of the periphery of the article receiving aperture AP.

[0150] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 in both the embodiments of Figures 1 and 3 comprises at least one first tooth 14A, 114A (also referred to herein as inner tooth 14A, 114A) around an inner portion or inward facing section around the article receiving aperture AP, which faces at least one second tooth 14B, 114B (also referred to herein as outer tooth 14B, 114B) around an outer portion or outward facing section around the article receiving aperture AP. The inner tooth 14A, 114A is located closer to the adjacently located article retaining structure RT1, RT2 than the outer tooth 14B, 114B.

[0151] 3 shows the fifth and sixth notional lines N5, N6, which extend radially from the center of the article receiving aperture AP through the first radial cut line 115A that defines the outermost second tooth 114B around the fifth arc or sector. Neither the fifth nor the sixth notional lines N5, N6 pass through nor intersect the article receiving aperture AP of the adjacently disposed article holding structures RT1, RT2. In this way, the second tooth 114B disposed around the fifth arc faces substantially away from the article receiving aperture AP of the adjacently disposed article holding structures RT1, RT2.

[0152] Each of the second teeth 114B disposed about the fifth arc may be considered to face substantially toward the proximal free end of the main panel 112.

[0153] FIG. 4 illustrates a third embodiment, showing a blank 210 for forming an article carrier (not shown).

[0154] The blank 210 includes an engagement panel 212. The engagement panel 212 of the blank 210 includes at least one article retaining structure RT1, RT2, with each retaining structure RT1, RT2 providing an article receiving aperture AP for receiving a respective article. The engagement panel 212 includes a plurality of article retaining structures RT1, RT2, specifically, eight article retaining structures RT1, RT2 arranged in a 2×4 matrix or array. Each of the article retaining structures RT1, RT2 includes an opening or aperture AP in which a plurality of teeth or tabs 214A, 214B, 214C, 214D may be disposed. Each of the teeth 214A, 214B, 214C, 214D is punched out of and hingedly connected to the engagement panel 212. Each tooth 214A, 214B, 214C, 214D may be defined, in part, by a pair of cut lines 215A, 215B. The cut lines 215A, 215B extend radially outward from the center of the article receiving apertures AP1, AP2. The teeth or tabs 214A, 214B, 214C, 214D are arranged in a series of annular shapes around the article receiving aperture AP and form a part of the article receiving aperture.

[0155] A plurality of tines 214A, 214B, 214C, 214D are provided by the main panel 212. Each of the tines 214A, 214B, 214C, 214D is hingedly connected to the main panel 212 by a hinge connection. The hinge connections may be defined by a plurality of cut lines 209A, 209B, 211.

[0156] The multiple cut lines 209A, 209B, 211 may be arranged as a circular series of cuts around the article receiving aperture AP.

[0157] The multiple cut lines 209A, 209B, 211 may define or approximate a portion of a circle.

[0158] The blank 210 includes four endmost article retaining structures RT1, each with an article receiving aperture AP. The blank 210 includes four middle or intermediate article retaining structures RT2, each with an article receiving aperture AP.

[0159] The endmost article retaining structure RT1 includes an article receiving aperture defined in the main panel 212 or partially defined by an article receiving aperture AP punched out from the main panel 212.

[0160] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes an article receiving aperture defined in the main panel 212 or partially defined by an article receiving aperture AP projected from the main panel 212.

[0161] The endmost article retaining structure RT1 is substantially similar in structure to the endmost article retaining structure RT1 described in the previous embodiment and / or shown in FIGS.

[0162] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes a second plurality of teeth or tabs 214A, 214B disposed around the article receiving aperture AP. Each of the second plurality of teeth 214A, 214B includes an engagement edge opposite the hinged edge. The engagement edge is defined by a portion of the cut line defining the article receiving aperture AP, and said portion of the cut line defining the article receiving aperture AP may be a straight line. Each engagement edge may define a portion of a polygon. The illustrated embodiment includes sixteen teeth 214A, 214B that together define a substantial portion of a hexagon. The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes seven first teeth 214A and nine second teeth 214B. Each of the first and second teeth 214A, 214B may occupy substantially the same circumferential area or portion of the article receiving aperture AP. Each tooth 214A, 214B includes a pair of side edges defined by cuts 215A extending radially outward from respective vertices of the hexagon forming the article receiving aperture AP, i.e., from respective vertices between a pair of adjacent linear portions of the cuts defining a portion of the hexagon. The cuts 215A are divergently disposed relative to one another and define an angle therebetween, which may be approximately 22.5°.

[0163] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes a plurality of first teeth 214A extending about or occupying a first arc. The first arc defines respective sectors that define a first angle. The first angle may be approximately 157.5°, or equivalent to seven teeth 214A, 214B. Each first tooth 214A includes or is defined by a pair of first radial cut lines 215A and a pair of first circumferential cut lines 209A.

[0164] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes a plurality of second teeth 214B extending around or occupying a second arc. The second arc defines a second sector that defines a second angle. The second angle may be approximately 202.5°, or equivalent to nine teeth 214A, 214B. Each second tooth 214B includes or is defined by a pair of first radial cut lines 215A, a pair of first circumferential cut lines 209A, and at least one third circumferential cut line 211. A notional line N3 extending in the longitudinal direction of the main panel 212 bisects an outermost second tooth 214B of the plurality of second teeth 214B. The outermost second tooth 214B is disposed adjacent to each first tooth 214B. The outermost second teeth 214B are disposed closest to an adjacently disposed article retaining structure RT1, RT2 in the same row of the article retaining structures RT1, RT2. A first tooth of the outermost second teeth 214B is diametrically opposed to a second tooth of the outermost second teeth 214B.

[0165] FIG. 5 illustrates a fourth embodiment, showing a blank 310 for forming an article carrier (not shown).

[0166] The blank 310 includes an engagement panel 312. The engagement panel 312 of the blank 310 includes at least one article retaining structure RT1, RT2, with each retaining structure RT1, RT2 providing an article receiving aperture AP for receiving a respective article. The engagement panel 312 includes a plurality of article retaining structures RT1, RT2, specifically, eight article retaining structures RT1, RT2 arranged in a 2×4 matrix or array. Each of the article retaining structures RT1, RT2 includes an opening or aperture AP in which a plurality of tines or tabs 314A, 314B, 314C, 314D may be disposed. Each of the tines 314A, 314B, 314C, 314D is punched out of and hingedly connected to the engagement panel 312. Each tine 314A, 314B, 314C, 314D may be defined, in part, by a pair of cut lines 315A, 315B. The cut lines 315A, 315B extend radially outward from the center of the article receiving apertures AP1, AP2. The teeth or tabs 314A, 314B, 314C, 314D are arranged in a series of annular shapes around the article receiving aperture AP and form part of the article receiving aperture.

[0167] The blank 310 includes four endmost article retaining structures RT1, each with an article receiving aperture AP. The blank 310 includes four middle or intermediate article retaining structures RT2, each with an article receiving aperture AP.

[0168] The endmost article retaining structure RT1 includes an article receiving aperture defined in the main panel 312 or partially defined by an article receiving aperture AP projected from the main panel 312.

[0169] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes an article receiving aperture defined in the main panel 312 or partially defined by an article receiving aperture AP projected from the main panel 312.

[0170] The endmost article retaining structure RT1 is substantially similar in structure to the endmost article retaining structure RT1 described in the previous embodiment and / or shown in FIGS.

[0171] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes a second plurality of teeth or tabs 314A, 314B disposed around the article receiving aperture AP. Each of the second plurality of teeth 314A, 314B includes an engagement edge opposite the hinged edge. The engagement edge is defined by a portion of the cut line defining the article receiving aperture AP, and said portion of the cut line defining the article receiving aperture AP may be straight. Each engagement edge may define a portion of a polygon. The illustrated embodiment includes sixteen teeth 314A, 314B that together define a substantial portion of a hexagon. The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes six first teeth 314A and ten second teeth 314B. Each of the first and second teeth 314A, 314B may occupy substantially the same circumferential area or portion of the article receiving aperture AP. Each tooth 314A, 314B includes a pair of side edges defined by cuts 315A extending radially outward from respective vertices of the hexagon forming the article receiving aperture AP, i.e., between a pair of adjacent linear portions of the cuts defining a portion of the hexagon. The cuts 315A are divergently disposed relative to one another and define an angle therebetween, which may be approximately 22.5°.

[0172] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes a plurality of first teeth 314A extending about or occupying a first arc. The first arc defines a sector that defines a first angle. The first angle may correspond to approximately 225°, or 10 teeth 314A, 314B. Each first tooth 314A includes or is defined by a pair of first radial cut lines 315A and a pair of first circumferential cut lines 309A.

[0173] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes a plurality of second teeth 314B extending about or occupying a second arc. The second arc defines a second sector that defines a second angle. The second angle may be approximately 135°, or equivalent to six teeth 314A, 314B. Each second tooth 314B includes or is defined by a pair of first radial cut lines 315A, a pair of first circumferential cut lines 309A, and at least one third circumferential cut line 311.

[0174] The intermediate article retention structure RT2 extends in the longitudinal direction of the main panel 312, and a notional line N3, which is coincident or collinear with the radial cut lines 315A, 315B of the endmost article retention structure RT1, extends in the longitudinal direction of the main panel 312 so as to also be coincident or collinear with the radial cut line 315A of the intermediate article retention structure RT2. The notional line N3 is approximately parallel to the side edge of the main panel 312 and perpendicular to the end edge of the main panel 312. In this manner, the first circumferential cut line 309A of the first article retention structure RT1, RT2 is aligned with the first circumferential cut line 309A of the adjacent second article retention structure RT1, RT2, defining the closest position of the first article retention structure RT1, RT2 to the adjacent second article retention structure RT1, RT2.

[0175] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 is oriented such that a notional line N7 extending laterally of the main panel 312 and coinciding or collinear with the radial cut line 315A of the first intermediate article retaining structure RT1 of the first row is also coinciding or collinear with the radial cut line 315A of the adjacent intermediate article retaining structure RT2 of the second row. The notional line N7 is approximately parallel to the edge of the main panel 312 and perpendicular to the side edge of the main panel 312. In this manner, the first circumferential cut line 309A of the first intermediate article retaining structure RT1 is aligned with the first circumferential cut line 309A of the second intermediate article retaining structure RT2, defining the closest position of the first intermediate article retaining structure RT2 to the second intermediate article retaining structure RT2.

[0176] FIG. 6 illustrates a fifth embodiment, showing a blank 410 for forming an article carrier (not shown).

[0177] The blank 410 includes an engagement panel 412. The engagement panel 412 of the blank 410 includes at least one article retaining structure RT1, RT2, with each retaining structure RT1, RT2 providing an article receiving aperture AP for receiving a respective article. The engagement panel 412 includes a plurality of article retaining structures RT1, RT2, specifically, eight article retaining structures RT1, RT2 arranged in a 2×4 matrix or array. Each of the article retaining structures RT1, RT2 includes an opening or aperture AP in which a plurality of tines or tabs 414A, 414B, 414C, 414D may be disposed. Each of the tines 414A, 414B, 414C, 414D is punched from and hingedly connected to the engagement panel 412. Each tine 414A, 414B, 414C, 414D may be defined, in part, by a pair of cut lines 415A, 415B. The cut lines 415A, 415B extend radially outward from the center of the article receiving apertures AP1, AP2. The teeth or tabs 414A, 414B, 414C, 414D are arranged in a series of annular shapes around the article receiving aperture AP and form part of the article receiving aperture.

[0178] A plurality of tines 414A, 414B, 414C, 414D are provided by the main panel 412. Each of the tines 414A, 414B, 414C, 414D is hingedly connected to the main panel 412 by a hinge connection. The hinge connections may be defined by a plurality of cut lines 409A, 409B, 411. The plurality of cut lines 409A, 409B, 411 may be arranged as a circular series of cuts around the article receiving aperture AP.

[0179] The multiple cut lines 409A, 409B, 411 may define or approximate a portion of a circle.

[0180] The blank 410 includes four endmost article retaining structures RT1, each with an article receiving aperture AP. The blank 410 includes four middle or intermediate article retaining structures RT2, each with an article receiving aperture AP.

[0181] The endmost article retaining structure RT1 includes an article receiving aperture defined in the main panel 412 or partially defined by an article receiving aperture AP punched out from the main panel 412.

[0182] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes an article receiving aperture defined in the main panel 412 or partially defined by an article receiving aperture AP projected from the main panel 412.

[0183] The endmost article retaining structure RT1 is substantially similar in structure to the endmost article retaining structure RT1 described in the previous embodiment and / or shown in FIGS.

[0184] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes a second plurality of teeth or tabs 414A, 414B disposed around the article receiving aperture AP. Each of the second plurality of teeth 414A, 414B includes an engagement edge opposite the hinged edge. The engagement edge is defined by a portion of the cut line defining the article receiving aperture AP, and said portion of the cut line defining the article receiving aperture AP may be straight. Each engagement edge may define a portion of a polygon. The illustrated embodiment includes sixteen teeth 414A, 414B that together define a substantial portion of a hexagon. The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes nine first teeth 414A and seven second teeth 414B. Each of the first and second teeth 414A, 414B may occupy substantially the same circumferential area or portion of the article receiving aperture AP. Each tooth 414A, 414B includes a pair of side edges defined by cuts 415A extending radially outward from a respective vertex of a hexagon forming the article receiving aperture AP, i.e., between a pair of adjacent linear portions of the cuts defining a portion of the hexagon. The cuts 415A are divergently disposed relative to one another and define an angle therebetween, which may be approximately 22.5°.

[0185] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes a plurality of first circumferential cut lines 409A, each of which is aligned with one of the first radial cut lines 415A such that one of the first radial cut lines 415A, or a notional extension thereof, bisects each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 409A.

[0186] Each of the radial cut lines 415A is spaced apart from a corresponding one of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 409A. Each of the first radial cut lines 415A is positioned relative to one of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 409A such that it bisects the first circumferential cut line 409A. In this manner, a connecting nick or bridge is provided between a pair of adjacently positioned teeth 414A, 414B that share a common first radial cut line 415A. The first radial cut lines 415A and the first circumferential cut lines 409A define a severed T-shaped cut line.

[0187] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes a plurality of third circumferential cut lines 411. Each of the plurality of third circumferential cut lines 411 is disposed between and spaced apart from the pair of first circumferential cut lines 409A to define a pair of connecting nicks or bridge portions between each of the second tines 414B and the main panel 412. The pair of connecting nicks or bridge portions provide a hinged or foldable connection between each of the second tines 414B and the main panel 412.

[0188] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes a plurality of first teeth 414A arranged in three separate groups extending around or occupying a first, second, and third arc, respectively. The first and third arcs define respective sectors that define a first angle. The first angle may be approximately 22.5°, or equivalent to one tooth 414A, 414B. The second arc defines a sector that defines a second angle. The second angle may be approximately 157.5°, or equivalent to seven teeth 414A, 414B. Each first tooth 414A includes or is defined by a pair of first radial cut lines 415A and a pair of first circumferential cut lines 409A. The first and third arcs are opposite each other.

[0189] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes a plurality of second teeth 414B arranged in three separate groups extending around or occupying a fourth, fifth, and sixth arc, respectively. The fourth arc defines a fourth sector defining a third angle. The third angle may be approximately 112.5°, or equivalent to five teeth 414A, 414B. The fifth and sixth arcs define respective sectors each defining a fourth angle. The fourth angle may be approximately 22.5°, or equivalent to one tooth 414A, 414B. Each second tooth 414B includes or is defined by a pair of first radial cut lines 415A, a pair of first circumferential cut lines 409A, and at least one third circumferential cut line 411. The fourth arc or sector may be disposed approximately perpendicular to the fifth arc or sector. A sixth arc or sector, opposite the second sector or arc.

[0190] A fourth arc or sector is defined by notional lines N5, N6, neither of which passes through or intersects the article receiving apertures AP of the adjacently disposed article retaining structures RT1, RT2.

[0191] The fifth and sixth arcs have second tines 414B located proximate to adjacently located article retaining structures RT1, RT2. The fourth arc has second tines 414B located proximate to a side edge of the main panel 412.

[0192] The second teeth 414B of the fifth and sixth arcs are provided with a third circumferential cut line 411. The third circumferential cut line 411 is aligned opposite the third circumferential cut line 411 of the adjacently disposed intermediate article retaining structure RT2 or the first circumferential cut line 409A of the adjacently disposed endmost article retaining structure RT1.

[0193] The embodiment of Figure 6 includes a single second tooth 414B with first teeth 414A located at multiple locations around the article receiving aperture AP, specifically, but not limited to, two locations on either side of it, The second tooth 414B has a lower folding resistance than the first tooth 414A.

[0194] The embodiment of Figure 6 includes a single first tooth 414A with second teeth 414B disposed on either side at least one location around the periphery of the article receiving aperture AP. The illustrated embodiment includes a single first tooth 414A with second teeth 414B disposed on either side at two locations around the periphery of the article receiving aperture AP.

[0195] FIG. 7 illustrates a sixth embodiment, showing a blank 510 for forming an article carrier (not shown).

[0196] The blank 510 includes an engagement panel 512. The engagement panel 512 of the blank 510 includes at least one article retaining structure RT1, RT2, with each retaining structure RT1, RT2 providing an article receiving aperture AP for receiving a respective article. The engagement panel 512 includes a plurality of article retaining structures RT1, RT2, specifically, eight article retaining structures RT1, RT2 arranged in a 2×4 matrix or array. Each of the article retaining structures RT1, RT2 includes an opening or aperture AP in which a plurality of tines or tabs 514A, 514B, 514C, 514D may be disposed. Each of the tines 514A, 514B, 514C, 514D is punched out of and hingedly connected to the engagement panel 512. Each tine 514A, 514B, 514C, 514D may be defined, in part, by a pair of cut lines 515A, 515B. The cut lines 515A, 515B extend radially outward from the center of the article receiving apertures AP1, AP2. The teeth or tabs 514A, 514B, 514C, 514D are arranged in a series of annular shapes around the article receiving aperture AP and form part of the article receiving aperture.

[0197] The blank 510 includes four endmost article retaining structures RT1, each with an article receiving aperture AP. The blank 510 includes four middle or intermediate article retaining structures RT2, each with an article receiving aperture AP.

[0198] The endmost article retaining structure RT1 includes an article receiving aperture defined in the main panel 512 or partially defined by an article receiving aperture AP projected from the main panel 512.

[0199] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes an article receiving aperture defined in the main panel 512 or partially defined by an article receiving aperture AP projected from the main panel 512.

[0200] The endmost article retaining structure RT1 includes a first plurality of teeth or tabs 514A, 514B, 514C, 514D arranged around the article receiving aperture AP. Each of the first plurality of teeth 514A, 514B, 514C, 514D includes an engagement edge opposite the hinged edge. The engagement edge is defined by a portion of the cut line that defines the article receiving aperture AP, and said portion of the cut line that defines the article receiving aperture AP may be straight. Each engagement edge may define a portion of a polygon. The illustrated embodiment includes 16 teeth 514A, 514B, 514C, 514D that together define a substantial portion of a hexagon. The endmost article retaining structure RT1 includes four first teeth 514A, six second teeth 514B, two third teeth 514C, and four fourth teeth 514D. Each of the first, second, third, and fourth teeth 514A, 514B, 514C, 514D may occupy substantially the same circumferential region or portion of the article receiving aperture AP. Each tooth 514A, 514B, 514C, 514D includes a pair of side edges defined by cuts 515A, 515B extending radially outward from a respective vertex of a hexagon forming the article receiving aperture AP, i.e., between a pair of adjacent linear portions of the cuts defining a portion of the hexagon. The cuts 515A, 515B are divergently disposed relative to one another and define an angle therebetween, which may be approximately 22.5°. Each tooth 514A, 514B, 514C, 514D disposed about the periphery of the article receiving aperture AP has the same angular width as the other teeth 514A, 514B, 514C, 514D, and the engaging edges of the teeth 514A, 514B, 514C, 514D are of equal length.

[0201] The endmost item retaining structure RT1 differs from those described in the previous embodiments and / or those shown in Figures 1, 3, 4, 5 and 6 by replacing the two first teeth 514A with two second teeth 514B, specifically, the two first teeth 514A are located closest to the intermediate item retaining structure RT2 in the same row of item retaining structures RT1, RT2 arranged adjacent to the endmost item retaining structure RT1.

[0202] The endmost article retaining structure RT1 includes a plurality of first teeth 514A extending around or occupying a first arc defined by notional lines N1, N2. The first arc defines a sector that defines a first angle θ. The first angle θ may be approximately 90° or equivalent to four teeth 514A, 514B, 514C, 514D. Each first tooth 514A includes or is defined by a pair of first radial cut lines 515A and a pair of first circumferential cut lines 509A. The first sector is defined between the first notional line N1 and the second notional line N2, neither of which passes through the article receiving aperture AP of the adjacently disposed article retaining structure RT1, RT2. That is, the first notional line N1 does not pass through or intersect the article receiving aperture AP of the adjacently disposed extreme article retaining structure RT1, and the second notional line N2 does not pass through or intersect the article receiving aperture AP of the adjacently disposed intermediate article retaining structure RT2.

[0203] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes a second plurality of teeth or tabs 514A, 514B disposed around the article receiving aperture AP. Each of the second plurality of teeth 514A, 514B includes an engagement edge opposite the hinged edge. The engagement edge is defined by a portion of the cut line defining the article receiving aperture AP, and said portion of the cut line defining the article receiving aperture AP may be straight. Each engagement edge may define a portion of a polygon. The illustrated embodiment includes sixteen teeth 514A, 514B that together define a substantial portion of a hexagon. The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes ten first teeth 514A and six second teeth 514B. Each of the first and second teeth 514A, 514B may occupy substantially the same circumferential area or portion of the article receiving aperture AP. Each tooth 514A, 514B includes a pair of side edges defined by cuts 515A extending radially outward from a respective vertex of a hexagon forming the article receiving aperture AP, i.e., between a pair of adjacent linear portions of the cuts defining a portion of the hexagon. The cuts 515A are divergently disposed relative to one another and define an angle therebetween, which may be approximately 22.5°.

[0204] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes a plurality of first teeth 514A extending about or occupying a first arc. The first arc defines a sector that defines a first angle. The first angle may correspond to approximately 135°, or six teeth 514A, 514B. Each first tooth 514A includes or is defined by a pair of first radial cut lines 515A and a pair of first circumferential cut lines 509A.

[0205] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes a plurality of second teeth 514B extending around or occupying a second arc. The second arc defines a second sector that defines a second angle. The second angle may be approximately 225°, or equivalent to 10 teeth 514A, 514B. Each second tooth 514B includes or is defined by a pair of first radial cut lines 515A, a pair of first circumferential cut lines 509A, and at least one third circumferential cut line 511.

[0206] The intermediate article retention structure RT2 is oriented such that a notional line N3, which extends longitudinally of the main panel 512 and coincides or is collinear with the radial cut lines 515A, 515B of the endmost article retention structure RT1, is also coincident or collinear with the radial cut line 515A of the intermediate article retention structure RT2. The notional line N3 is generally parallel to the side edge of the main panel 512 and perpendicular to the end edge of the main panel 512. In this manner, the first circumferential cut line 509A of the first article retention structure RT1, RT2 is aligned with the first circumferential cut line 509A of the adjacent second article retention structure RT1, RT2, defining the closest position of the first article retention structure RT1, RT2 to the adjacent second article retention structure RT1, RT2.

[0207] The present disclosure provides a carrier 90 and a blank 10;110;210;310;410;510 for forming the carrier 90 having a main panel 12;112;212;312;412 with an opening for receiving at least one item B. The main panel 12;112;212;312;412;512 may include a handle structure. The opening includes an article receiving aperture AP and a series of annular tabs 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D; 114A, 114B, 114C, 114D; 214A, 214B, 214C, 214D; 314A, 314B, 314C, 314D; 414A, 414B, 414C, 414D; 514A, 514B, 514C, 514D formed around the article receiving aperture AP. the annular series of tabs 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D; 114A, 114B, 114C, 114D; 214A, 214B, 214C, 214D; 314A, 314B, 314C, 314D; 414A, 414B, 414C, 414D; 514A, 514B, 514C, 514D have a first folding resistance; At least one of the second tabs 14B, 14C, 14D; 114B, 114C, 114D; 214B, 214C, 214D; 314B, 314C, 314D; 414B, 414C, 414D; 514B, 514C, 514D has a second folding resistance, the second folding resistance being lower than the first folding resistance.

[0208] At least one first tab 14A;114A;214A;314A;414A and at least one second tab 14B,14C,14D;114B,114C,114D;214B,214C,214D;314B,314C,314D;414B,414C,414D;514B,514C,514D each have an angular width, and the angular width of the first tab 14A;114A;214A;314A;414A is greater than or equal to the angular width of the second tab 14B,14C,14D;114B,114C,114D;214B,214C,214D;314B,314C,314D;414B,414C,414D ;514B, 514C, 514D and the second tabs 14B, 14C, 14D; 114B, 114C, 114D; 214B, 214C, 214D; 314B, 314C, 314D; 414B, 414C, 414D; 514B, 514C, 514D have a hinge connection to the main panel 12; 112; 212; 312; 412; 512 having a greater number or degree of weakened elements or hinge elements 9A, 9B, 11 than the hinge connection between the first tab 14A; 114A; 214A; 314A; 414A and the main panel 12; 112; 212; 312; 412; 512.

[0209] At least one first tab 14A;114A;214A;314A;414A has a first hinge connection to a main panel 12;112;212;312;412;512 having at least one connecting bridge or nick. The at least one connecting bridge or nick has a first overall or combined length. At least one second tab 14B,14C,14D;114B,114C,114D;214B,214C,214D;314B,314C,314D;414B,414C,414D;514B,514C,514D has a second hinge connection to a main panel 12;112;212;312;412;512 having at least one connecting bridge or nick. At least one connecting bridge or connecting nick has a second overall or combined length that is less than the first overall or combined length, and the extent of the connecting bridge or connecting nick at the second hinge connection is less than the extent of the first hinge connection.

[0210] At least one first tab 14A; 114A; 214A; 314A; 414A may be an internal tooth, ie, disposed about an interior region of the article receiving aperture AP.

[0211] At least one second tab 14B, 14C, 14D; 114B, 114C, 114D; 214B, 214C, 214D; 314B, 314C, 314D; 414B, 414C, 414D; 514B, 514C, 514D may be an external tooth, i.e., positioned around the outer region of the article receiving aperture AP.

[0212] The outer teeth may be diametrically opposed to the inner teeth.

[0213] The internal teeth may be positioned closer to the adjacently disposed opening or second article receiving aperture AP of the article engaging structures RT1, RT2 than the external teeth.

[0214] The external teeth may be arranged such that a notional corner line N8 passes through or defines a side edge of said external teeth (see, for example, FIG. 1). The notional corner line N8 passes through a corner of the main panel 12, which may be real or imaginary. The corner of the main panel 12 may be defined by the apex or intersection of the adjacent perpendicular edges of the blank 10, or a notional extension thereof in embodiments having rounded or filleted corners.

[0215] The main panel 12; 112; 212; 312; 412; 512 may include a handle opening defined at least in part by at least one handle flap 60, 62, 64, 66, 70, 72. The at least one handle flap 60, 62, 64, 66, 70, 72 is folded towards at least one internal tooth of the article receiving aperture.

[0216] The at least one handle flap 60, 62, 64, 66, 70, 72 may comprise a first handle flap 60, 62, 64, 66, 70, 72 and a second handle flap 60, 62, 64, 66, 70, 72. The first handle flap 60, 62, 64, 66, 70, 72 is folded toward at least one inner tooth of a first opening of the main panel 12;112;212;312;412;512, and the second handle flap 60, 62, 64, 66, 70, 72 is folded toward at least one inner tooth of a second opening of the main panel 12;112;212;312;412;512.

[0217] The present disclosure also provides a blank 10;110;210;310;410;510 for forming a top-engaging type article carrier 90. The blank 10;110;210;310;410;510 or article carrier 90 comprises at least one panel 12;112;212;312;412;512 having at least one article engaging structure RT1, RT2. At least one article engaging structure RT1, RT2 comprises an article receiving aperture AP and a series of annular teeth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D; 114A, 114B, 114C, 114D; 214A, 214B, 214C, 214D; 314A, 314B, 314C, 314D; 414A, 414B, 414C, 414D; 514A, 514B, 514C, 514D formed around the article receiving aperture AP.

[0218] In some embodiments, the annular set of teeth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D; 114A, 114B, 114C, 114D; 214A, 214B, 214C, 214D; 314A, 314B, 314C, 314D; 414A, 414B, 414C, 414D; 514A, 514B, 514C, 514D are , may have first teeth 14B, 14C, 14D; 114B, 114C, 114D; 214B, 214C, 214D; 314B, 314C, 314D; 414B, 414C, 414D; 514B, 514C, 514D arranged between a pair of second teeth 14A; 114A; 214A; 314A; 414A. The teeth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D of the annular set of teeth; 114A, 114B, 114C, 114D; 214A, 214B, 214C, 214D; 314A, 314B, 314C, 314D; 414A, 414B, 414C, 414D; 514A, 514B, 514C, 514D The cuts are defined, at least in part, by a pair of T-cuts defined by radial cut lines 15A, 15B and circumferential cut lines 9A, 9B. The first teeth 14B, 14C, 14D; 114B, 114C, 114D; 214B, 214C, 214D; 314B, 314C, 314D; 414B, 414C, 414D; 514B, 514C, 514D are provided with a further circumferential cut line 11 arranged between a pair of circumferential cut lines 9A, 9B.

[0219] In some embodiments, the annular set of teeth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D; 114A, 114B, 114C, 114D; 214A, 214B, 214C, 214D; 314A, 314B, 314C, 314D; 414A, 414B, 414C, 414D; 514A, 514B, 514C, 514D are , a pair of first teeth 14B, 14C, 14D; 114B, 114C, 114D; 214B, 214C, 214D; 314B, 314C, 314D; 414B, 414C, 414D; 514B, 514C, 514D, and a second tooth 14A; 114A; 214A; 314A; 414A arranged between the pair of first teeth 14B, 14C, 14D; 114B, 114C, 114D; 214B, 214C, 214D; 314B, 314C, 314D; 414B, 414C, 414D; 514B, 514C, 514D The teeth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D of the annular set of teeth; 114A, 114B, 114C, 114D; 214A, 214B, 214C, 214D; 314A, 314B, 314C, 314D; 414A, 414B, 414C, 414D; 514A, 514B, 514C, 514D The cuts are defined, at least in part, by a pair of T-cuts defined by radial cut lines 15A, 15B and circumferential cut lines 9A, 9B. Each pair of first teeth 14B, 14C, 14D; 114B, 114C, 114D; 214B, 214C, 214D; 314B, 314C, 314D; 414B, 414C, 414D; 514B, 514C, 514D has a further circumferential cut line 11 arranged between a pair of circumferential cut lines 9A, 9B.

[0220] The present disclosure also provides a blank 10;110;210;310;410;510 for forming a top-engaging type article carrier 90. The blank 10;110;210;310;410;510 or article carrier 90 comprises at least one panel 12;112;212;312;412;512 having at least two article engaging structures RT1, RT2. Each of the at least two article engaging structures RT1, RT2 has an article receiving aperture AP and a series of annular teeth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D; 114A, 114B, 114C, 114D; 214A, 214B, 214C, 214D; 314A, 314B, 314C, 314D; 414A, 414B, 414C, 414D; 514A, 514B, 514C, 514D formed around the article receiving aperture AP. The teeth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D of the annular set of teeth; 114A, 114B, 114C, 114D; 214A, 214B, 214C, 214D; 314A, 314B, 314C, 314D; 414A, 414B, 414C, 414D; 514A, 514B, 514C, 514D The cuts are defined, at least in part, by a pair of T-cuts defined by radial cut lines 15A, 15B and circumferential cut lines 9A, 9B. A first annular set of teeth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D of the at least two article engaging structures RT1, RT2; 114A, 114B, 114C, 114D; 214A, 214B, 214C, 214D; 314A, 314B, 314C, 314D; 414A, 414B, 414C, 414D; 514A, 514B, 514C, 5 14D has first teeth 14B, 14C, 14D; 114B, 114C, 114D; 214B, 214C, 214D; 314B, 314C, 314D; 414B, 414C, 414D; 514B, 514C, 514D arranged adjacent to at least one second tooth 14A; 114A; 214A; 314A; 414A.A second annular set of teeth 14A, 14B, 14C, 14D of the at least two article engaging structures RT1, RT2; 114A, 114B, 114C, 114D; 214A, 214B, 214C, 214D; 314A, 314B, 314C, 314D; 414A, 414B, 414C, 414D; 514A, 514B, 514C, 5 14D comprises first teeth 14B, 14C, 14D; 114B, 114C, 114D; 214B, 214C, 214D; 314B, 314C, 314D; 414B, 414C, 414D; 514B, 514C, 514D arranged adjacent to at least one second tooth 14A; 114A; 214A; 314A; 414A. The first teeth 14B, 14C, 14D; 114B, 114C, 114D; 214B, 214C, 214D; 314B, 314C, 314D; 414B, 414C, 414D; 514B, 514C, 514D comprise a further circumferential cut line 11 arranged between a pair of circumferential cut lines 9A, 9B. The first teeth 14B, 14C, 14D; 114B, 114C, 114D; 214B, 214C, 214D; 314B, 314C, 314D; 414B, 414C, 414D; 514B, 514C, 514D of the first article engaging structure RT1, RT2 of the at least two article engaging structures RT1, RT2 are bisected by a notional line passing through the center of the article receiving aperture AP of the first article engaging structure RT1, RT2 of the at least two article engaging structures RT1, RT2. The notional line passes through the center of the article receiving aperture AP of a second article engaging structure RT1, RT2 of the at least two article engaging structures RT1, RT2 and bisects the first teeth 14B, 14C, 14D; 114B, 114C, 114D; 214B, 214C, 214D; 314B, 314C, 314D; 414B, 414C, 414D; 514B, 514C, 514D of the second article engaging structure of the at least two article engaging structures RT1, RT2.

[0221] The engagement panel 12;112;212;312;412;512 may include a handle opening at least partially defined by at least two handle flaps 60,62,64,66,70,72. A first one of the at least two handle flaps 60,62,64,66,70,72 is folded toward at least one second tine 14A;114A;214A;314A;414A of a first one of the at least two article engagement structures RT1,RT2. A second one of the at least two handle flaps 60,62,64,66,70,72 is folded toward at least one second tine 14A;114A;214A;314A;414A of a second one of the at least two article engagement structures RT1,RT2. The first handle flap is hinged to the engagement panel 12;112;212;312;412;512 by a first fold line, and the first handle flap is hinged to the engagement panel 12;112;212;312;412;512 by a second fold line. The first fold line is divergently disposed relative to the second fold line.

[0222] The present disclosure also provides a blank 10;110;210;310;410;510 for forming a top-engagement type article carrier 90. The blank 10;110;210;310;410;510 or article carrier 90 includes an engagement panel 112;212;412 having at least two article engagement structures RT1, RT2. Each of the at least two article engagement structures RT1, RT2 includes an article receiving aperture AP and a set of annular teeth 114A, 114B, 114C, 114D; 214A, 214B, 214C, 214D; 414A, 414B, 414C, 414D formed around the article receiving aperture AP. Each tooth 114A, 114B, 114C, 114D; 214A, 214B, 214C, 214D; 414A, 414B, 414C, 414D of the annular set of teeth 114A, 114B, 114C, 114D; 214A, 214B, 214C, 214D; 414A, 414B, 414C, 414D is defined at least in part by a pair of T-cuts that include radial cut lines 115A, 115B and circumferential cut lines 109A, 109B. The annular set of teeth 114A, 114B, 114C, 114D; 214A, 214B, 214C, 214D; 414A, 414B, 414C, 414D of a first tooth of the at least two article engaging structures RT1, RT2 comprises a pair of first teeth 114A; 214A; 414A separated by a T-cut. The annular set of teeth 114A, 114B, 114C, 114D; 214A, 214B, 214C, 214D; 414A, 414B, 414C, 414D of a second tooth of the at least two article engaging structures RT1, RT2 comprises at least one second tooth 114B, 114C, 114D; 214B, 214C, 214D; 414B, 414C, 414D. At least one of the second teeth 114B, 114C, 114D; 214B, 214C, 214D; 414B, 414C, 414D has a further circumferential cut line 111 disposed between the pair of circumferential cut lines 109A, 109B. The further circumferential cut line 111 is disposed on an opposite side of the T-cut separating the pair of first teeth 114A; 214A; 414A.A notional line passing through a center of the article receiving aperture AP of a first of the at least two article engaging structures RT1, RT2 and a center of the article receiving aperture AP of a second of the at least two article engaging structures RT1, RT2 bisects at least one second tooth 114B, 114C, 114D; 214B, 214C, 214D; 414B, 414C, 414D and / or further circumferential cut line 111. The notional line may be coincident or collinear with radial portion 115A of the T-cut and bisect circumferential portion 109A of the T-cut.

[0223] As used herein, "top," "bottom," "base," "front," "rear," "end," "side," "inside," "outside," "above" and "below" do not necessarily limit the respective panels to such orientations, but may merely serve to distinguish these panels from one another.

[0224] The terms "hinge connection" and "fold line" as used herein refer to any type of line that defines the hinge mechanism of the blank and facilitates folding portions of the blank together, or indicates the optimal panel folding location of the blank. References to a "hinge connection" should not be construed as necessarily referring to only a single fold line, and in fact a hinge connection can be formed from two or more fold lines, each of which can be either straight / rectilinear or curved / curvilinear in shape. When straight fold lines form a hinge connection, they can be disposed parallel to each other or disposed at a slight angle relative to each other. When curved fold lines form a hinge connection, the curved fold lines can intersect each other to define a shaped panel within the area bounded by the curved fold lines. A typical example of such a hinge connection may comprise a pair of arched or bowed fold lines that intersect at two points to define an oval panel therebetween. A hinge connection can be formed from one or more straight fold lines and one or more curved fold lines. A typical example of such a hinge connection may include a combination of straight fold lines and arched or arcuate fold lines that intersect at two points to define a half-moon shaped panel therebetween.

[0225] The term "fold line" as used herein refers to any of the following fold lines: cut lines, embossed lines, debossed lines, perforation lines, short slit lines, half-cut lines, single half-cuts, interrupted cut lines, aligned slit lines, score lines, and any combination of the aforementioned options.

[0226] It should be understood that the hinge connections and fold lines may each include elements formed in the blank substrate including perforations, perforation lines, short slit lines, half cut lines, single half cuts, cut lines, interrupted cut lines, slits, scores, embossed lines, debossed lines, any combination thereof, and the like. The elements are sized and configured to provide the required functionality. For example, the perforation lines may be dimensioned and engineered for a degree of weakness to define the fold and / or cut lines. The perforation lines may be designed to make folding easy and difficult to break, to make folding easy with more effort and easy to break, or to make breaking easy with less effort.

[0227] The term "matching" as used herein refers to the alignment of two or more elements in an erected carton, such as an opening formed in a first of two overlapping panels and a second opening formed in a second of the two overlapping panels. These elements that are aligned with one another may be aligned with one another in the thickness direction of the overlapping panels. For example, when an opening in a first panel is "matching" with a second opening in a second panel that is positioned overlapping the first panel, an edge of the opening may extend along at least a portion of an edge of the second opening and be aligned with the second opening in the thickness direction of the first and second panels. [Explanation of symbols]

[0228] 9A, 9B, Circumferential cut line, hinge element 10 Blank 11, 15A, 15B Cutting lines 12 Main panel, engagement panel 14A~14D Teeth, tabs, set of teeth, set of tabs 60, 62, 64, 66, 70, 72 Tabs, Handle Flap 61, 63, 65, 67 Fold lines 69, 71 Cut lines, possible cut lines 90 cartons, article carriers 109A, 109B, Circumferential cut line 110 Blank 111, 115A, 115B Cutting lines 112 Main panel, engagement panel 114A~114D Teeth, tabs, set of teeth, set of tabs 209A, 209B, Circumferential cut line 210 Blank 211, 215A, 215B Cutting lines 212 Main panel, engagement panel 214A~214D Teeth, tabs, set of teeth, set of tabs 309A, 309B, Circumferential cut line 310 Blank 311, 315A, 315B Cutting lines 312 Main panel, engagement panel 314A~314D Teeth, tabs, set of teeth, set of tabs 409A, 409B, Circumferential cut line 410 Blank 411, 415A, 415B Cutting lines 412 Main panel, engagement panel 414A~414D Teeth, tabs, set of teeth, set of tabs 509A, 509B, Circumferential cut line 510 Blank 511, 515A, 515B Cutting lines 512 Main panel, engagement panel 514A~214D Teeth, tabs, set of teeth, set of tabs AP Article Receiving Aperture B Goods, primary product containers C center Ha1~Ha3 opening N1~N8 Conceptual lines R1, R2 finger recesses, notches RT1 First article holding structure RT2 Secondary item holding structure β Rotation angle θ First angle ω Second angle

Claims

1. 1. An article carrier for packaging at least one article, the article carrier comprising a main panel having an opening for receiving at least one article, the opening comprising an article receiving aperture and an annular series of tabs formed around the article receiving aperture, the annular series of tabs comprising at least one first tab having a first folding resistance and at least one second tab having a second folding resistance, the second folding resistance being lower than the first folding resistance.

2. 2. The article carrier of claim 1, wherein the at least one first tab and the at least one second tab each have an angular width, the angular width of the first tab equal to the angular width of the second tab, and the at least one second tab has a hinge connection with the main panel having more weakening elements than a hinge connection between the at least one first tab and the main panel.

3. 2. The article carrier of claim 1, wherein the at least one first tab comprises a first hinge connection with a main panel having at least one first connection bridge, the at least one first connection bridge having a first overall length, and the at least one second tab comprises a second hinge connection with the main panel having at least one second connection bridge, the at least one second connection bridge having a second overall length, the second overall length being less than the first overall length.

4. 4. The article carrier of claim 3, wherein the second hinge connection with the main panel comprises a plurality of second connection bridges, the plurality of second connection bridges having a combined second length, the combined second length being less than the first overall length.

5. The article carrier of claim 1 , wherein the at least one first tab is an internal tooth disposed about an interior region of the article receiving aperture.

6. The article carrier of claim 5 , wherein the at least one second tab is an external tine disposed about an outer region of the article receiving aperture.

7. The article carrier of claim 6 , wherein said external teeth are diametrically opposed to said internal teeth.

8. The article carrier of claim 7 , wherein the internal teeth are disposed closer to a second article receiving aperture or article engaging structure of an adjacently disposed opening than are the external teeth.

9. 7. The article carrier of claim 6, wherein the external teeth can be positioned such that a notional line passes through the center of the opening and an apex defined by adjacent side edges and ends of the main panel is collinear with a side edge of the external teeth.

10. 2. The article carrier of claim 1, wherein the main panel includes a handle opening defined at least in part by at least one handle flap hinged to the main panel, the at least one handle flap configured to fold toward the at least one first tab.

11. 11. The article carrier of claim 10, wherein the at least one handle flap comprises a first handle flap and a second handle flap hingedly connected to the main panel by respective hinge connections, the first handle flap folded toward at least one first tab of a first opening of the main panel and the second handle flap folded toward at least one first tab of a second opening of the main panel.

12. 2. The article carrier of claim 1, wherein at least one of the article receiving apertures is a corner aperture, and at least one of the first tab and the second tab are defined by radial cut lines, the radial cut lines of the second tab being positioned across respective corners of the main panel such that the radial cut lines extend from the corner aperture toward the corners of the main panel.

13. 1. An article carrier of a top-engagement type for packaging at least one article, the article carrier comprising an engagement panel having at least one article engagement structure, the at least one article engagement structure comprising an article receiving aperture and an annular set of teeth formed around the article receiving aperture, the annular set of teeth comprising a first tooth disposed between a pair of second teeth, each tooth of the annular set of teeth being defined, at least in part, by a pair of T-cuts, the T-cuts being defined by radial cut lines and a first circumferential cut line, the first teeth including a second circumferential cut line disposed between an adjacent pair of first circumferential cut lines.

14. An article carrier as described in claim 13, wherein the annular series of teeth further includes second teeth positioned between a pair of first teeth, each of the pair of first teeth including a second circumferential cut line positioned between a pair of first circumferential cut lines.

15. The engagement panel comprises two article engagement structures, each of the two article engagement structures comprising the article receiving aperture and the annular set of teeth arranged around the article receiving aperture, the annular set of teeth of a first of the two article engagement structures comprising a first tooth arranged adjacent to the second tooth, the annular set of teeth of a second of the two article engagement structures comprising a first tooth arranged adjacent to the second tooth, and each of the first and second article engagement structures comprises a first tooth arranged adjacent to the second tooth.

15. The article carrier of claim 14, wherein one tooth comprises a second circumferential cut line disposed between a pair of first circumferential cut lines, and the first tooth of a first of the two article engaging structures is bisected by a notional line passing through a center of an article receiving aperture of the first of the two article engaging structures, and the notional line passes through a center of an article receiving aperture of a second of the two article engaging structures and bisects the first tooth of the second of the two article engaging structures.

16. The article carrier of claim 13, wherein the engagement panel comprises an engagement panel having at least two article engagement structures, each of the at least two article engagement structures comprising the article receiving aperture and the annular set of teeth formed around the article receiving aperture, the annular set of teeth of a first structure of the at least two article engagement structures comprising a pair of first teeth separated by a first T-cut, and a second annular set of teeth of the at least two article engagement structures comprising second teeth, the second teeth comprising a second circumferential cut line located between a pair of first circumferential cut lines, the second circumferential cut line of the second teeth being located on an opposite side of the first T-cut separating the pair of first teeth.

17. 17. The article carrier of claim 16, wherein a notional line passing through a center of an article receiving aperture of a first article engaging structure of the at least two article engaging structures and a center of an article receiving aperture of a second article engaging structure of the at least two article engaging structures bisects the second tooth and its respective second circumferential cut line, the notional line being collinear with a radial portion of a first T-cut and bisecting the first circumferential cut line of the first T-cut.

18. 1. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a main panel having an opening for receiving at least one article, the openings each comprising an article receiving aperture and an annular series of tabs formed around the article receiving aperture, the annular series of tabs comprising at least one first tab having a first folding resistance and at least one second tab having a second folding resistance, the second folding resistance being lower than the first folding resistance.

19. 20. The blank of claim 18, wherein the main panel comprises an engagement panel having a plurality of article engagement structures each comprising one of an opening including the article receiving aperture and an annular series of tabs as an annular series of teeth formed around the article receiving aperture, the annular series of teeth comprising a first tooth disposed between a pair of second teeth, each tooth of the annular series of teeth being defined, at least in part, by a pair of T-cuts, the T-cuts being defined by radial cut lines and a first circumferential cut line, the first teeth comprising a second circumferential cut line disposed between an adjacent pair of first circumferential cut lines.

20. A blank as described in claim 19, wherein the annular series of teeth further includes second teeth positioned between a pair of first teeth, each of the pair of first teeth including a second circumferential cut line positioned between a pair of first circumferential cut lines.

21. The engagement panel comprises two article engagement structures, each of the two article engagement structures comprising the article receiving aperture and the annular set of teeth arranged around the article receiving aperture, the annular set of teeth of a first of the two article engagement structures comprising a first tooth arranged adjacent to a second tooth, the annular set of teeth of a second of the two article engagement structures comprising a first tooth arranged adjacent to a second tooth, and the first set of teeth of each of the first and second article engagement structures comprising a first tooth arranged adjacent to a second tooth.

21. The blank of claim 20, wherein the teeth of a first of the two article engaging structures include a second circumferential cut line disposed between a pair of first circumferential cut lines, and wherein the first tooth of a first of the two article engaging structures is bisected by a notional line passing through a center of an article receiving aperture of the first of the two article engaging structures, and the notional line passes through a center of an article receiving aperture of a second of the two article engaging structures and bisects the first tooth of the second of the two article engaging structures.

22. A blank as described in claim 19, wherein the engagement panel comprises at least two article engagement structures, each of the at least two article engagement structures comprising the article receiving aperture and an annular set of teeth formed around the article receiving aperture, the annular set of teeth of a first article engagement structure of the at least two article engagement structures comprising a pair of first teeth separated by a first T-cut, and the annular set of teeth of a second article engagement structure of the at least two article engagement structures comprising second teeth, the second teeth comprising a second circumferential cut line disposed between the pair of first circumferential cut lines, the second circumferential cut line of the second teeth disposed on an opposite side of the T-cut separating the pair of first teeth.

Images