Container carrier

Abstract

A carrier for holding a plurality of containers includes a plurality of panels having at least one mounting panel, at least one side panel, and at least one top panel configured to receive a portion of one or more containers of the plurality of containers, and a locking mechanism for maintaining an upright configuration of the carrier, the locking mechanism including at least one male locking mechanism extending from each panel of the plurality of panels and at least partially received in a respective at least one female locking mechanism at least partially defined in each panel of the plurality of panels.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] [CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 216,062, filed June 29, 2021. [Incorporated by citation] The disclosure of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 216,062, filed June 29, 2021, is incorporated by reference herein for all purposes as if set forth herein in its entirety. FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE This disclosure relates generally to cartons or carriers for holding, displaying, and / or transporting containers. Summary of the Invention

[0002] According to one aspect, the present disclosure relates to a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the carrier including a plurality of panels including at least one mounting panel, at least one side panel, and at least one top panel configured to receive a portion of one or more containers of the plurality of containers, and a locking mechanism for maintaining an upright configuration of the carrier, the locking mechanism including at least one male locking mechanism extending from a respective panel of the plurality of panels and at least partially received in a respective at least one female locking mechanism defined at least partially on the respective panel of the plurality of panels.

[0003] According to another aspect, the disclosure generally relates to a blank for forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the blank including a plurality of panels including at least one mounting panel, at least one side panel, and at least one top panel configured to receive a portion of one or more containers of the plurality of containers, and a locking mechanism for maintaining an upright shape of the carrier formed from the blank, the locking mechanism including at least one male locking mechanism extending from each of the plurality of panels to be at least partially received in a respective at least one female locking mechanism defined at least partially on each of the plurality of panels when the carrier is formed from the blank.

[0004] According to another aspect, the disclosure generally relates to a method of forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the method including obtaining a blank having a plurality of panels including at least one mounting panel, at least one side panel, and at least one top panel configured to receive a portion of one or more containers of the plurality of containers, and a locking mechanism including at least one male locking mechanism extending from a respective panel of the plurality of panels and at least one female locking mechanism at least partially defined in the respective panel of the plurality of panels, positioning the at least one mounting panel to at least partially receive one or more containers of the plurality of containers, and at least partially inserting the at least one male locking mechanism through the at least one female locking mechanism to maintain an upright configuration of the carrier.

[0005] Those skilled in the art will appreciate the above advantages and other advantages and benefits of various additional embodiments upon reading the following detailed description of the embodiments with reference to the drawings listed below: It is within the scope of this disclosure that the above-described aspects are provided both individually and in various combinations.

[0006] According to common practice, the various features of the drawings described below are not necessarily drawn to scale. Dimensions of various features and elements in the drawings may be expanded or reduced to more clearly illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0007] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank for forming a carrier and a package according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 1A] FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of a portion of the blank of FIG. [Figure 1B] FIG. 2 is an enlarged view of another portion of the blank of FIG. 1. [Diagram 2] 2 is a perspective view of a carrier and package formed from the blank of FIG. 1 according to a first exemplary embodiment. [Diagram 3] 2 is a schematic diagram of a portion of a side view of a carrier and package formed from the blank of FIG. 1 according to a first exemplary embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank for forming a carrier and a package according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4A] 5 is a schematic diagram of a portion of a side view of a carrier and package formed from the blank of FIG. 4 according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank for forming a carrier and a package according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5A] 6 is a schematic diagram of a portion of a side view of a carrier and package formed from the blank of FIG. 5 according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] FIG. 13 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank for forming a carrier and a package according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6A] 7 is a schematic diagram of a portion of a side view of a carrier and package formed from the blank of FIG. 6 according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7]FIG. 13 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank for forming a carrier and a package according to a fifth exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7A] 8 is a schematic diagram of a portion of a side view of a carrier and package formed from the blank of FIG. 7 according to a fifth exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8] FIG. 13 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank for forming a carrier and a package according to a sixth exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8A] 10 is a schematic diagram of a portion of a side view of a carrier and package formed from the blank of FIG. 8 according to a sixth exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0008] Corresponding parts are indicated by corresponding reference numerals throughout the drawings. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] The present disclosure generally relates to carriers, packages, constructs, sleeves, cartons, and the like for holding and displaying containers such as jars, bottles, cans, and the like. The containers can be used, for example, to package food and beverage products. The containers can be made from materials of a composition suitable for packaging a particular food or beverage item, including, but not limited to, glass, plastics such as PET, LDPE, LLDPE, HDPE, PP, PS, PVC, EVOH, nylon, and the like, aluminum and / or other metals, or any combination thereof.

[0010] Carriers according to the present disclosure can accommodate containers of many different shapes. For purposes of illustration, and not for purposes of limiting the scope of the present disclosure, the following detailed description describes a beverage container (e.g., an aluminum can) at least partially disposed within a carrier embodiment. As used herein, the terms "lower," "bottom," "upper," "top," "front," and "rear" refer to directions determined relative to a fully upright carrier.

[0011] As described herein, the carrier may be formed by a plurality of overlapping panels, end flaps, and / or other portions of a blank. Such panels, end flaps, and / or other portions of a blank may be designated in sequential or non-sequential reference to one another in relative terms, e.g., "first," "second," "third," etc., without departing from this disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 1 shows a plan view of the exterior 101 of a blank 103 used to form a carrier 105 (FIG. 2) according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 2, the carrier 105 is sized to accommodate or support six containers, with three containers CA1, CA2, CA3 attached to a front 106 of the carrier 105 and three containers CB1, CB2, CB3 attached to a rear 108 of the carrier 105. In the illustrated embodiment, the containers CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, CB3 may be beverage cans or any other suitable type and size of container without departing from the present disclosure. In some embodiments, the containers may have an upper rim or other top having an outer diameter of 53 mm, 58 mm, or 56 mm.

[0013] Carrier 105 may be sized and shaped to hold more or less than six containers. In one embodiment, front 106 and rear 108 of carrier 105 each have three containers, while in other embodiments, front 106 and rear 108 of carrier 105 can hold more or less than three containers without departing from this disclosure. Carrier 105 can be provided with one or more containers as package 110 (FIG. 2).

[0014] 1, the blank 103 has a longitudinal axis L1 and a transverse axis L2. The blank 103 has a front portion 107 for forming a front portion 106 of the carrier 105, and a rear portion 109 for forming a rear portion 108 of the carrier 105. The front portion 107 and the rear portion 109 of the blank 103 are foldably connected at a transverse fold line 112 that forms a transverse centerline CL of the blank 103 and may be interrupted by a plurality of transversely spaced cuts or locking openings 132 (broadly, "female locking features" or "second female locking features") as shown. As described herein, a locking opening may designate an opening formed in one or more portions of the blank / carrier upon separation of the one or more portions of the blank / carrier, and / or a cut or other line of weakness that facilitates such separation.

[0015] 1, the front portion 107 of the blank 103 can include a front container retaining panel or front attachment panel 131a, and a pair of laterally spaced handle openings 130 can interrupt the fold line 112 and extend at least partially into the attachment panel 131a. As also shown, the handle openings 130 can extend into a portion of the rear portion 109 of the blank 103.

[0016] With further reference to the close-up view of FIG. 1A, the front attachment panel 131a can also include a container-retaining portion 135a that is at least partially defined between a pair of longitudinally spaced transverse fold lines 137a, 139a that are interrupted by a respective pair of longitudinally spaced cuts 141a, each of which can include one or more curved and / or angled portions. As shown, the longitudinally spaced cuts 141a define container-retaining tabs 148a that extend outwardly from the container-retaining portion 135a. As also shown, each diagonal cut 143a, 145a can extend outwardly from one or more cuts 141a that interrupt the fold lines 139a. Additionally, a longitudinal cut 146a can extend outwardly from a central portion of each of the cuts 141a.

[0017] As shown, inner edge 136a of mounting panel 131a is at least partially defined between fold lines 137a, 112, and outer perimeter edge 138a of mounting panel 131a is at least partially defined between fold line 139a and a lateral fold line 157a adjacent mounting panel 131a.

[0018] The blank 103 may also include a locking feature for forming a locking feature of the carrier 105. Such a locking feature may include a plurality of male locking features and a plurality of female locking features configured to at least partially receive a portion of a respective male locking feature. As shown, the locking feature may include a pair of locking tabs 134 (broadly, the “male locking feature” or “fourth male locking feature”) extending from the mounting panel 131 a, interrupting the fold line 137a, and extending into each handle opening 130. The locking mechanism of the blank 103 / carrier 105 disposed within the mounting panel 131a may also include a plurality of locking openings 140a (broadly, "female locking mechanisms" or "first female locking mechanisms") formed at least partially within the container retaining portion 135a of the mounting panel 135a and intersecting respective cuts 141a along fold lines 137a, and a plurality of locking openings 142 (broadly, "female locking mechanisms" or "first female locking mechanisms" or "fourth female locking mechanisms") laterally spaced from the locking openings 140a and formed at least partially within the container retaining portion 135a of the mounting panel 131a.

[0019] As shown, bevel or front side panel 155a is foldably connected to front mounting panel 131a at lateral fold lines 157a, and front top panel 159a is foldably connected to front side panel 155a at lateral fold lines 161a. As described further herein, lateral fold lines 161a can be interrupted by a plurality of breaks 141a to define container-retaining tabs 148a projecting from top panel 159. Disposed along each container-retaining tab 148a is a respective locking tab 144 (broadly, a "male locking feature" or "first male locking feature" or "third male locking feature") formed by a respective line of weakness 150 having one or more curved, angled, and / or straight portions such that locking tab 144 extends from top panel 159a. Although fold line 161 a is illustrated as extending partially along the lateral length of blank 103, it will be understood that fold line 161 a can extend the entire lateral length of blank 103 without departing from this disclosure.

[0020] The front lock panel 163a can be foldably connected to the top panel 159a at a transverse fold line 165a interrupted by a plurality of laterally spaced locking tabs 167a (broadly, "male locking features" or "first male locking features") formed by respective curved breaks 168a disposed to extend from the lock panel 163a. ​​The lock panel 163a can include a handle feature including a handle reinforcement flap or tab 169a for aligning / cooperating with a respective handle opening 130, foldably connected to the front lock panel 163a at respective longitudinal fold lines 171a, as described further herein.

[0021] 1, locking tabs 173 (broadly, the "male locking feature" or "second male locking feature") may be foldably connected to and / or otherwise extend from front locking panel 163a at respective transverse fold lines 175. As shown, locking tabs 173 may have a base that extends into a distal portion or locking head / mechanism to provide multiple locking edges.

[0022] In the illustrated embodiment, the rear 109 of the blank 103 includes a rear container retention panel or rear attachment panel 131b, a rear bevel panel or rear side panel 155b, a rear top panel 159b, and a rear locking panel 163b with associated features that are mirror images of corresponding portions of the front 107 of the blank 103. Corresponding components (e.g., panels, flaps, folds, cuts, etc.) are indicated by corresponding reference numbers that vary by an "a" or "b" suffix, with the "a" components corresponding to the front 107 of the blank 103 and the "b" components corresponding to the rear 109 of the blank 103. An enlarged view of a portion of the rear 109 of the blank 103 is shown in FIG. 1B.

[0023] 1A and 1B, as shown, the rear mounting panel 131b can lack the locking tab 134 and the locking opening 142. Additionally, the rear top panel 155b can lack the locking tab 144.

[0024] With respect to the rear lock panel 163b, the rear lock panel 163b can be at least partially bisected by a lateral fold or other weakened line 164b to form proximal and distal portions thereof, or to form a first rear top panel and a second rear top panel. As shown, a plurality of laterally spaced apart locking openings 177 (broadly, "female locking features" or "third female locking features" or "fifth female locking features") can be at least partially defined in the rear lock panel 163b, and a plurality of generally polygonal, e.g., pentagonal, locking openings 179 (broadly, "female locking features" or "third female locking features" or "fourth female locking features" or "fifth female locking features") can extend from each locking opening 177 toward a free lateral edge 181 (broadly, "locking edge" or "locking tab") of the rear lock panel 163b.

[0025] 1, the handle structure of the rear lock panel 163b can further include a pair of laterally spaced apart handle openings 183 adjacent respective handle reinforcement flaps 169b that extend into the handle openings 183. Although the handle openings 183 are illustrated as generally crescent shaped or other curved, the handle openings 183 can have different configurations without departing from this disclosure.

[0026] Any of the panels, flaps, fold lines, cuts, or other structures may be otherwise shaped, positioned, and / or omitted from blank 103 without departing from this disclosure. Blank 103 may be sized and / or shaped to accommodate more or less than six containers without departing from this disclosure.

[0027] 2-3, according to one exemplary embodiment of forming the carrier 105, the blank 103 can be inverted such that the outer side 101 of the blank 103 is positioned over the containers CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, CB3, the container retaining portion 135a of the front mounting panel 131a overlies the containers CA1, CA2, CA3, and the container retaining portion 135b of the rear mounting panel 131b overlies the containers CB1, CB2, CB3. Further downward movement of the mounting panels 131a, 131b over the multiple containers CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, CB3 can actuate the respective container retaining portions 135a, 135b to engage the respective containers.

[0028] For example, when front mounting panel 131a is lowered or urged downwardly onto containers CA1, CA2, CA3, container-retaining portion 135a can at least partially separate from the remainder of front mounting panel 131a at breaks 141a. In such a configuration, a top or top portion T of each container CA1, CA2, CA3 can extend at least partially through a respective opening formed by each break 141a such that container-retaining tab 148a can be positioned under a recessed portion of container CA1, CA2, CA3, such as a rolled upper edge of the recessed top portion of container CA1, CA2, CA3.

[0029] In such a configuration, peripheral edges 136a, 138a of mounting panel 131a can be folded at least partially downwardly at respective fold lines 137a, 139a, and similarly, peripheral edges 136b, 138b of mounting panel 131b can be folded at least partially downwardly at respective fold lines 137b, 139b. Such movement causes a reconfiguration of outer peripheral edge 138a of upper mounting panel 131a at respective breaks 143a, 145a, 146a into engagement with a rolled / flanged rim or other upper structure of each container CA1, CA2, CA3.

[0030] The rear mounting panel 131b and corresponding container-retaining portions 135b can engage with the containers CB1, CB2, CB3 in a manner similar to that described above with respect to the engagement of the front mounting panel 131a and container-retaining portions 135a with the containers CA1, CA2, CA3. Reconfiguration of the corresponding portions of the rear mounting panel 131b can occur when the rear mounting panel 131b is lowered or biased downwardly onto the containers CB1, CB2, CB3, as described above with respect to the front mounting panel 131a.

[0031] 2 and 3, the front side panel 155a can be folded upwardly at fold line 157a, for example, into an oblique arrangement relative to the mounting portion 135a of the mounting panel 131a, and the top panel 159a can be folded into at least partial face contact with at least a portion of the mounting panels 131a, 131b at fold line 161a. Such movement of the top panel 159a can cause the container-retaining tabs 148a to separate from the front side panel 155a at their respective breaks 141a and at least partially overlap the container-retaining tabs 148a associated with the mounting panel 131a. In this regard, the rolled rim or other top structure of each container CA1, CA2, CA3 can be received at least partially through slit 141a along fold line 161a such that container retaining tab 148a extending from top panel 159 can also be positioned within the recessed upper portion of container CA1, CA2, CA3.

[0032] Similarly, rear side panel 155b can be folded upwardly at fold line 157b into an oblique arrangement relative to attachment portion 135b of rear attachment panel 131b, and rear top panel 159b can be folded at fold line 161b into at least partial face contact with top panel 159b and / or attachment panel 131b. Such movement of rear top panel 155b can cause engagement with containers CB1, CB2, CB3 in a manner similar to that described above with respect to engagement of front top panel 159a with containers CA1, CA2, CA3.

[0033] The rear locking panel 163b can be folded at the fold line 165b to at least partially overlap the respective portion of the mounting panel 131b. In such a configuration, the locking tab 167b (broadly, the "male locking feature" or "fifth male locking feature") can be at least partially separated from the fold line 165b and at least partially inserted / received into the locking opening 140b (broadly, the "female locking feature" or "first female locking feature" or "sixth female locking feature") at least partially formed in the rear mounting panel 131b, and positioned such that the locking tab 167b is at least partially wedged under the rear mounting panel 131b. Additionally, the locking edge 181 of the rear locking panel 163b can be wedged under or otherwise positioned to overlap the locking tab 134 extending from the front mounting panel 131a. In this regard, the locking tab 134 can be positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the respective portion of the rear locking panel 163b.

[0034] In the above-described configuration, lock opening 177 can be positioned / aligned over lock opening 132 along fold line 112, and lock opening 179 can be positioned / aligned over lock opening 140a in front mounting panel 131a.

[0035] The rear locking panel 163a can then be folded at fold lines 165a to at least partially overlap the respective portions of the mounting panel 131a. In such a configuration, the locking tabs 144 can be at least partially separated from the container-retaining tabs 148a of the front top panel 159a at the weakened lines 150 and at least partially inserted or sandwiched into the edges of the locking openings 142 in the front mounting panel 131a.

[0036] Additionally, lock tabs 167a may be at least partially separated from front top panel 159a at breaks 160a and at least partially inserted into and received in aligned lock openings 179, 140a. Such movement of the blank 103 / carrier 105 panels may also position lock tabs 173 over aligned lock openings 177, 132 such that lock tabs 173 may be manipulated to be at least partially inserted into and received in lock openings 177, 132. For example, lock tabs 173 may be at least partially folded downward at respective fold lines 175 and inserted into lock openings 177 and at least partially inserted into the lock openings 132 aligned therebelow.

[0037] Such interlocking engagement of the locking features of the carrier 105 with the carriers and packages disclosed herein can provide a robust structure of the carrier 105 that is resistant to accidental loosening / movement / shifting and can contribute to maintaining the upright structure of the carrier 105 and tight, secure engagement with the containers CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, CB3. For example, the configuration of the locking features described above provides multiple plies and interference edges of the material from which the carrier 105 is formed, such as paperboard, and the various locking features provide a combined effect of enhancing the strength / integrity of the carrier 105. In some embodiments, the engagement of the various male locking features and respective female locking features described herein can provide a desired level of tension or tightness of the carrier around the containers. A schematic diagram of the interaction of the locking features of the carrier 105 is shown in FIG. 3. In this regard, the blank 103 / carrier 105 can be formed and maintained in an upright configuration with minimal application of adhesives such as glue, or in embodiments, lacking adhesives such as glue.

[0038] In this manner, the above-described arrangement of the carrier's panels can align various handle features, e.g., handle reinforcement flaps 169a, 169b (and adjacent handle opening 183) and handle opening 130, such that a user can at least partially insert their fingers downward against reinforcement flaps 169a, 169b to at least partially separate their fingers from their respective locking panels 163a, 163b and fold downward at their respective fold lines 171a, 171b to allow the user to grasp carrier 105 along the portions of mounting panels 131a, 131b exposed below handle opening 130. Reinforcement flaps 169a, 169b can provide an additional layer of material, e.g., as a cushioning material, between a user's fingers and carrier, to resist deformation / tear of one or more portions of carrier 105 for user comfort, to avoid pinching of user's fingers, etc.

[0039] The above-described package 110 / carrier 105 has a compact structure that can provide, for example, material savings and waste reduction. Furthermore, the exposure of one or more portions of the containers CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, CB3 on the exterior portion of the carrier 105 / package 110 provides a consumer with a clear view of the labeling or surface graphics associated with the containers CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, CB3, as well as convenient access to remove one or more of the containers CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, CB3 from the carrier 105 / package 110, for example, by pulling the respective containers through the respective breaks 141a, 141b and removing the containers from the respective panels 131a, 131b, 159a, 159b.

[0040] 4 is a plan view of an exterior surface 201 of a blank 203 for forming a carrier 205 (FIG. 4A) and a package 210 (FIG. 4A) according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The blank 203 and the carrier 205 / package 210 formed therefrom can have one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the blank 103 and carrier 105 / package 110 described above, and like or similar structures are indicated with like or similar reference numbers. Thus, the blank 203 can include a front portion 207 for forming a front portion 206 of the carrier 205 / package 210, and a rear portion 209 for forming a rear portion 208 of the carrier 205 / package 210.

[0041] The blank 203 can have a longitudinal axis L1 and a transverse axis L2, mounting panels 131a, 131b, side panels 155a, 155b, top panels 159a, 159b, and associated structures.

[0042] Additionally, the locking opening 142 disposed in the mounting panel 131a of the blank 203 can be a front locking opening 142a, and a rear locking opening 142b (broadly, a "female locking feature" or "first female locking feature" or "third female locking feature") can be at least partially defined in the mounting panel 131b of the blank 203. Additionally, the locking tab 144 in the container retaining tab extending from the top panel 159a can be a front locking tab 144a, and the blank 203 can further include a rear locking tab 144b (broadly, a "male locking feature" or "third male locking feature") in the container retaining tab 148b extending from the rear top panel 159b.

[0043] With continued reference to FIG. 4, a locking tab similar to locking tab 173 described above can be a front locking tab 173a attached to top panel 159a at a respective lateral fold line 175a, and blank 203 can also include a rear locking tab 173b (broadly, a "male locking feature" or "fourth male locking feature") foldably connected to and extending from top panel 159b at a respective lateral fold line 175b.

[0044] In this regard, the blank 203 and the carrier 205 / package 210 formed therefrom may have a different number and arrangement of panels, handle structures, and locking structures as compared to the blank 103 and carrier 105 / package 110 described above. It will be understood that the blank 203 / carrier 205 / package 210 may have further different arrangements and / or configurations without departing from this disclosure.

[0045] 4A, the blank 203 may be formed into a carrier 205 / package 210 in a manner similar to that described above with respect to forming the carrier 105 / package 110 from the blank 103 without the action of the locking panels 163a, 163b as described above. For example, the containers CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, CB3 may be at least partially received through openings formed in the respective mounting panels 131a, 131b by folding one or more portions thereof relative to one another as described above. Additionally, the side panels 155a, 155b may be disposed generally obliquely relative to the respective portions of the mounting panels 131a, 131b as described above, and the top panels 159a, 159b may be disposed in at least partial face contact with the respective portions of the mounting panels 131a, 131b as described above.

[0046] 4A, with the overlapping panels shown in dashed lines for clarity, locking tabs 144a may be separated from container-retaining tabs 148a at their respective lines of weakening 150a and wedged beneath mounting panel 131a by being at least partially received through their respective openings 142a, as described above. Similarly, locking tabs 144b may be separated from container-retaining tabs 148b at their respective lines of weakening 150b and at least partially inserted and received through their respective openings 142b that are wedged beneath mounting panel 131b.

[0047] As described above, when the top panels 159a, 159b are placed in at least partial face-to-face contact with respective portions of the respective mounting panels 131a, 131b, the locking tabs 173a, 173b can be positioned generally aligned over respective locking openings 142 that interrupt the fold line 112. Thus, the locking tabs 173a, 173b can be folded downwardly at respective fold lines 175a, 175b and at least partially inserted and received through the respective locking openings 142. In such a configuration, one or more flared or flanged portions of each locking tab 173a, 173b can engage an underside of one or both of the respective mounting panels 131a, 131b to maintain secure engagement of the locking tabs 173a, 173b through the locking openings 132.

[0048] The above-described configuration of carrier 205 / package 210 can provide robust and secure engagement of various panels and portions thereof to support one or more containers with similar advantages as those described above with respect to carrier 105 / package 110. In some embodiments, such a configuration of carrier 205 / package 210 can be provided to avoid or minimize the use of adhesives, polymeric materials such as glues, etc.

[0049] 5 is a plan view of an exterior surface 301 of a blank 303 for forming a carrier 305 (FIG. 5A) and a package 310 (FIG. 5A) according to a third exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The blank 303 and the carrier 305 / package 310 formed therefrom can have one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the blanks 103, 203 and carriers 105, 205 / packages 110, 210 described above, and like or similar structures are indicated with like or similar reference numbers. Thus, the blank 303 can include a front portion 307 for forming a front portion 306 of the carrier 305 / package 310, and a rear portion 309 for forming a rear portion 308 of the carrier 305 / package 310.

[0050] The blank 303 can have a longitudinal axis L1 and a transverse axis L2, mounting panels 131a, 131b, side panels 155a, 155b, top panels 159a, 159b, and associated structures. The blank 303 can also include locking openings 132, 142a, 142b, and locking tabs 144a, 144b, 173. An additional locking opening 185 (broadly, a "female locking mechanism" or "second female locking mechanism" or "fourth female locking mechanism") can be at least partially defined in the rear top panel 159b. It will be understood that the blank 303 / carrier 305 / package 310 can have further different arrangements and / or configurations without departing from this disclosure.

[0051] 5A, in which overlapping panels are shown in dashed lines for clarity, the blank 303 can be formed into the carrier 305 / package 310 in a manner similar to that described above with respect to forming the carrier 105, 205 / package 110, 210 from the blank 103, 203 as described above. For example, the containers CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, CB3 can be at least partially received through openings formed in the respective mounting panels 131a, 131b by folding one or more portions thereof relative to one another as described above. Additionally, the side panels 155a, 155b can be disposed generally obliquely relative to the respective portions of the mounting panels 131a, 131b as described above, and the top panels 159a, 159b can be disposed in at least partial face contact with the respective portions of the mounting panels 131a, 131b as described above.

[0052] Locking tabs 144a can be sandwiched under mounting panel 131a by separating from container-retaining tabs 148a at their respective lines of weakening 150a and being at least partially received through their respective openings 142a as described above. Similarly, locking tabs 144b can be separated from container-retaining tabs 148b at their respective lines of weakening 150b and being at least partially inserted / received through their respective openings 142b for sandwiching under mounting panel 131b.

[0053] When the top panels 159a, 159b are placed in at least partial face-to-face contact with respective portions of the respective mounting panels 131a, 131b as described above, the locking openings 185 can be positioned generally aligned over the locking openings 132 that interrupt the fold lines 112, and the locking tabs 173 can be positioned over the aligned locking openings 185, 132. In this regard, the locking tabs 173 can be folded downward at the respective fold lines 175 and inserted and received through the locking openings 185, and further inserted and received at least partially through the locking openings 132. In such a configuration, one or more flared or flanged portions of each locking tab 173 can engage an underside of one or both of the respective mounting panels 131a, 131b to maintain secure engagement of the locking tabs 173 through the locking openings 132.

[0054] The above-described configuration of the carrier 305 / package 310 can provide robust and secure engagement of the various panels and portions thereof to support one or more containers with similar advantages as those described above with respect to the carrier 105, 205 / package 110, 210. In some embodiments, such a configuration of the carrier 305 / package 310 can be provided to avoid or minimize the use of adhesives, polymeric materials such as glues, etc.

[0055] 6 is a plan view of an exterior surface 401 of a blank 403 for forming a carrier 405 (FIG. 6A) and a package 410 (FIG. 6A) according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The blank 403 and the carrier 405 / package 410 formed therefrom can have one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the blanks 103, 203, 303 and carriers 105, 205, 305 / packages 110, 210, 310 described above, and like or similar structures are indicated with like or similar reference numerals. Thus, the blank 403 can include a front portion 407 for forming a front portion 406 of the carrier 405 / package 410, and a rear portion 409 for forming a rear portion 408 of the carrier 405 / package 410.

[0056] The blank 403 can have a longitudinal axis L1 and a transverse axis L2, mounting panels 131a, 131b, side panels 155a, 155b, top panels 159a, 159b, and associated structure. The blank 403 can also include locking openings 132, 142a, 142b, and locking tabs 144a, 144b, 173.

[0057] As shown, the locking openings 185 can be at least partially defined along / against the top panel 159b longitudinally farther from the central fold line 112 than the blank 303 described above. Additionally, the tabs 187 can extend away from their respective locking openings 185 such that the tabs 187 are at least partially foldably connected to the top panel 159b at their respective locking openings 185. In one embodiment, the locking openings 185 can be collinear with a free edge of the top panel 159b.

[0058] In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 403 can include more locking tabs 173a than the embodiments described above. In some embodiments, the blank 403 can include five locking tabs 173a, but more or fewer locking tabs 173a can be included without departing from the disclosure.

[0059] The locking tabs 173b can be arranged in an alternating relationship with the tabs 187 such that each locking tab 173b is generally aligned with each locking tab 173a along an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis L1, and each tab 187 is generally aligned with each locking tab 173a along an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis L1.

[0060] 6A, in which overlapping panels are shown in dashed lines for clarity, the blank 403 can be formed into the carrier 405 / package 410 in a manner similar to that described above with respect to forming the carriers 105, 205, 305 / packages 110, 210, 310 from the blanks 103, 203, 303 as described above. For example, the containers CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, CB3 can be at least partially received through openings formed in the respective mounting panels 131a, 131b as described above. Additionally, the side panels 155a, 155b can be disposed generally obliquely relative to the respective portions of the mounting panels 131a, 131b as described above, and the top panels 159a, 159b can be disposed in at least partial face contact with the respective portions of the mounting panels 131a, 131b as described above.

[0061] Locking tabs 144a can be separated from container-retaining tabs 148a at respective lines of weakening 150a and sandwiched under mounting panel 131a through respective openings 142a, as described above. Similarly, locking tabs 144b can be separated from container-retaining tabs 148b at respective lines of weakening 150b and at least partially inserted through respective openings 142b to be sandwiched under mounting panel 131b.

[0062] As described above, when the top panels 159a, 159b are placed in at least partial face-to-face contact with respective portions of the respective mounting panels 131a, 131b, some of the locking tabs 173a, 173b may be generally aligned over the locking openings 132 that interrupt the fold lines 112, and the interspersed locking tabs 173a therebetween may be generally aligned with the tabs 187. In this regard, the locking tabs 173a, 173b aligned over the locking openings 132 may be folded downwardly at respective fold lines 175a, 175b and at least partially inserted through the locking openings 132. In such a configuration, one or more flared or flanged portions of each of the locking tabs 173a, 173b may engage an underside of one or both of the respective mounting panels 131a, 131b to maintain secure engagement of the locking tabs 173a, 173b through the locking openings 132.

[0063] Additionally, the locking tabs 173a, aligned with their respective locking openings 185 / tabs 187, can be at least partially inserted through the locking openings 185, for example, to maintain and / or reinforce the positioning of the mounting panels 131a, 131b relative to one another. In some embodiments, the tabs 187 can be at least partially folded downward at a line of weakness associated with the tabs 187 to facilitate at least partial reception of the locking tabs 173a within the locking openings 185. In other embodiments, the locking tabs 173a can be at least partially inserted through the locking openings 185 and disposed in at least partial face contact with the tabs 187.

[0064] The above-described configuration of the carrier 405 / package 410 can provide for robust and fixed engagement of the various panels and portions thereof to support one or more containers with similar advantages as those described above with respect to the carrier 105, 205, 305 / package 110, 210, 310. In some embodiments, such a configuration of the carrier 405 / package 410 can be provided to avoid or minimize the use of adhesives, polymeric materials such as glues, etc.

[0065] 7 is a plan view of an exterior surface 501 of a blank 503 for forming a carrier 505 (FIG. 7A) and a package 410 (FIG. 7A) according to a fifth exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The blank 503 and the carrier 505 / package 510 formed therefrom can have one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the blanks 103, 203, 303, 403 and carriers 105, 205, 305, 405 / packages 110, 210, 310, 410 described above, and like or similar structures are indicated with like or similar reference numerals. Thus, the blank 503 can include a front portion 507 for forming a front portion 506 of the carrier 505 / package 510 and a rear portion 509 for forming a rear portion 508 of the carrier 505 / package 510.

[0066] The blank 503 can have a longitudinal axis L1 and a transverse axis L2, mounting panels 131a, 131b, side panels 155a, 155b, top panels 159a, 159b, locking panels 163a, 163b, and associated structures. The blank 503 can also include locking openings 132, 140a, 140b, 179, and locking tabs 167a, 167b, 173.

[0067] Also, as shown, the handle structure of the blank 503 can include a handle opening 130, handle reinforcement flaps 431a, 431b foldably connected to the respective mounting panels 131a, 131b at respective diagonal fold lines 433a, 433b and positioned to extend into the respective handle opening 130, handle reinforcement flap 169b, and a handle notch or cutout 469 formed along the free edge of the lock panel 163a.

[0068] With further reference to the schematic diagram of FIG. 7A, in which the overlapping panels are shown in dashed lines for clarity, the blank 503 can be formed into the carrier 505 / package 510 in a manner similar to that described above with respect to forming the carrier 105, 205, 305, 405 / package 110, 210, 310, 410 from the blank 103, 203, 303, 403 as described above. For example, the containers CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, CB3 can be at least partially received through openings formed in the respective mounting panels 131a, 131b by folding one or more portions thereof relative to one another as described above. Additionally, the side panels 155a, 155b can be disposed generally obliquely relative to the respective portions of the mounting panels 131a, 131b as described above, and the top panels 159a, 159b can be disposed in at least partial face contact with the respective portions of the mounting panels 131a, 131b as described above.

[0069] The locking tabs 167, 167b can be separated from the top panels 159a, 159b at their respective lines of weakness 160a, 160b and forced under the mounting panel 131a through their respective openings 140a, 140b as described above.

[0070] As described above, when top panels 159a, 159b are positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with respective portions of respective mounting panels 131a, 131b, lock panel 163a can be positioned over lock panel 163b. In this regard, lock tabs 173 aligned above lock openings 179, 132 can be folded downwardly at respective fold lines 175 for insertion into and reception into respective lock openings 179 and, subsequently, lock openings 132 below. In such an arrangement, one or more flared or flanged portions of each lock tab 173 can engage an underside of one or both of the respective mounting panels 131a, 131b to maintain secure engagement of the lock tabs 173 through the lock openings 132.

[0071] In this manner, the above-described arrangement of the carrier's panels may allow the various handle structures, e.g., handle opening 469, handle reinforcement flap 169b, and handle opening 132 / handle reinforcement flaps 431a, 431b, to be moved by a user to at least partially insert one or more fingers downward through the respective handle openings 469 relative to the reinforcement flaps 169b to at least partially separate them from the respective locking panels 163b and fold them downward at least partially at the respective fold lines 171a through the respective handle openings 130. Such movement of the handle reinforcement flap 169b may fold the one or more handle reinforcement flaps 431a, 431b downward at least partially at the respective fold lines 433a, 433b to allow the user to grasp the carrier 505 along the portions of the mounting panels 131a, 131b exposed below the handle opening 130. The reinforcement flaps 169a, 169b, 433a, 433b can provide an additional layer of material, e.g., as a buffer, between the user's fingers and the carrier to resist deformation / tear of one or more portions of the carrier 505 for user comfort and to avoid pinching of the user's fingers, etc.

[0072] The above-described structure of the carrier 505 / package 510 can provide a robust and fixed engagement of the various panels and portions thereof to support one or more containers with similar advantages as those described above with respect to the carrier 105, 205, 305, 405 / package 110, 210, 310, 410. In some embodiments, such a structure of the carrier 505 / package 510 can be provided to avoid or minimize the use of polymeric materials such as glue-like adhesives.

[0073] 8 is a plan view of an exterior surface 601 of a blank 603 for forming a carrier 605 (FIG. 8A) and a package 610 (FIG. 8A) according to a sixth exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The blank 603 and the carrier 605 / package 610 formed therefrom can have one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the blanks 103, 203, 303, 403, 503 and carriers 105, 205, 305, 405, 505 / packages 110, 210, 310, 410, 510 described above, and like or similar structures are indicated with like or similar reference numerals. Thus, the blank 603 can include a front portion 607 for forming a front portion 606 of the carrier 605 / package 610, and a rear portion 609 for forming a rear portion 608 of the carrier 605 / package 610.

[0074] The blank 603 can have a longitudinal axis L1 and a transverse axis L2, mounting panels 131a, 131b, side panels 155a, 155b, top panels 159a, 159b, a locking panel 163a, and associated structures.

[0075] Blank 603 may also include a locking tab 167 (broadly, a "male locking feature" or "first male locking feature") that interrupts fold line 161a, a locking tab 173, a locking opening 140b disposed in mounting panel 131b, and a locking opening 185 disposed to interrupt fold line 161b. In the illustrated embodiment, locking tab 167 may have a generally obliquely angled, e.g., wedge-shaped or triangular, configuration and locking opening 185 may have a generally curved configuration, although either or both of locking tab 167 and locking opening 185 may have different configurations without departing from the disclosure.

[0076] As also shown, the handle structure of the blank 603 can include a pair of handle reinforcement flaps 631a, 631b intersecting and separably connected at a longitudinal cut 633 that interrupts the fold line 112. Each handle reinforcement flap 631a, 631b can be at least partially defined by a respective pair of curved cuts 635a, 635b that intersect the cut 633. The handle reinforcement flap 637 can also be at least partially defined by a generally curved cut 639 in the top panel 159a.

[0077] With further reference to the schematic diagram of FIG. 8A, in which the overlapping panels are shown in dashed lines for clarity, the blank 603 can be formed into the carrier 605 / package 610 in a manner similar to that described above with respect to forming the carrier 105, 205, 305, 405, 505 / package 110, 210, 310, 410, 510 from the blank 103, 203, 303, 403, 503 as described above. For example, the containers CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, CB3 can be at least partially received through openings formed in the respective mounting panels 131a, 131b by folding one or more portions thereof relative to one another as described above. Additionally, the side panels 155a, 155b can be disposed generally obliquely relative to the respective portions of the mounting panels 131a, 131b as described above, and the top panels 159a, 159b can be disposed in at least partial face contact with the respective portions of the mounting panels 131a, 131b as described above.

[0078] Locking tab 167 can be separated from top panel 159a at line of weakness 160 and tucked under mounting panel 131b by being at least partially received through opening 140b as described above. Additionally, locking panel 163a can be positioned over top panel 159b such that locking tab 173 can be at least partially inserted through locking opening 185. In such a configuration, one or more flared or flanged portions of locking tab 173 can engage portions of side panel 155b and / or top panel 159b adjacent locking opening 185.

[0079] The above-described arrangement of the carrier panels may thus align various handle structures, such as the handle reinforcement flaps 637, 631a, 631b, which may enable a user to insert one or more fingers at least partially downwardly through the handle reinforcement flap 637 such that the handle reinforcement flap 637 at least partially separates from the top panel 159a at the slit 639 and further moves the handle reinforcement flaps 631a, 631b aligned therebelow to at least partially separate at the slit 633 and further move downwardly from their respective mounting panels 131a, 131b at their respective slits 635a, 635b, thereby enabling the user to grasp the carrier 605 along the portions of the mounting panels 131a, 131b exposed by such movement of the handle reinforcement flaps 631a, 631b. The handle reinforcement flaps 637, 631a, 631b can provide an additional layer, e.g., as a buffer, between the user's fingers and the carrier to resist deformation / tear of one or more portions of the carrier 605 for user comfort, to avoid pinching of the user's fingers, etc.

[0080] The above-described configuration of the carrier 605 / package 610 can provide for robust and fixed engagement of various panels and portions thereof to support one or more containers with similar advantages as those described above with respect to the carrier 105, 205, 305, 405, 505 / package 110, 210, 310, 410, 510. In some embodiments, such a configuration of the carrier 605 / package 610 can be provided to avoid or minimize the use of polymeric materials such as glue-like adhesives.

[0081] It will be understood that the blanks and carriers / packages described herein can be provided in different configurations without departing from this disclosure.

[0082] Generally, the blanks may be constructed from paperboard having a caliper such that it is heavier and stiffer than regular paper. The blanks may also be constructed from other materials such as cardboard, or any other material having suitable properties to enable the carrier to function at least generally as described above. The blanks may be coated, for example, with a clay coating. The clay coating may then be printed with product, advertising, and other information or images. The blanks may then be coated with a varnish to protect the information printed on the blank. The blanks may also be coated, for example, with a moisture barrier layer on either or both sides of the blank. The blanks may also be laminated or coated to one or more sheet-like materials in selected panels or panel sections.

[0083] As an example, the tear line may include a slit that extends partially into the material along the desired line of weakness, and / or a series of spaced slits that extend partially into the material along the desired line of weakness and / or completely through the material, or various combinations of these structures. As a more specific example, one type of tear line is in the form of a series of spaced slits that extend completely through the material, with adjacent slits spaced slightly apart such that nicks (e.g., small, somewhat bridge-like portions of material) are defined between adjacent slits, typically temporarily connecting the material across the tear line. The nicks are cut during tearing along the tear line. The nicks are typically a relatively small percentage of the tear line, and alternatively, the nicks may be omitted from or formed within the tear line such that the tear line is a continuous cut line. That is, it is within the scope of this disclosure for each tear line to be replaced with a continuous slit, etc. For example, the cut line may be a continuous slit or may be wider than the slit without departing from this disclosure.

[0084] According to an exemplary embodiment, the crease line is not necessarily a straight line, but may be any substantially straight form of weakening that facilitates folding along it. More specifically, and without the intent of narrowing the scope of this disclosure, the crease line includes a score line, such as a line formed with a blunt scoring knife or the like that forms a crushed or depressed portion in the material along the desired line of weakness. It also includes a cut that extends partially into the material along the desired line of weakness, and / or a series of cuts that extend partially into and / or completely through the material along the desired line of weakness, and various combinations of these structures. In situations where cuts are used to form fold lines, the cuts typically are not so large that a reasonable user would erroneously consider the fold line to be a tear line.

[0085] The above embodiments may be described as having one or more panels adhered by an adhesive during assembly of the carrier embodiment, the term "adhesive" being intended to encompass any type of adhesive commonly used to secure carrier panels in place.

[0086] The foregoing description of the present disclosure illustrates and describes various exemplary embodiments. Various additions, modifications, changes, etc. can be made to the exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. All matters contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings should be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Furthermore, the present disclosure illustrates and describes only selected embodiments of the present disclosure, but the present disclosure can be used in various other combinations, modifications, and environments, and can be changed or modified within the scope of the inventive concept expressed herein, consistent with the above teachings, and / or within the scope of the skill or knowledge of the relevant art. Furthermore, the specific structure and characteristics of each embodiment can be selectively exchanged and applied to other illustrated and unillustrated embodiments of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. 1. A carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the carrier comprising a plurality of panels including at least one mounting panel, at least one side panel, and at least one top panel configured to receive a portion of one or more containers of the plurality of containers, and a locking mechanism for maintaining an upright structure of the carrier, the locking mechanism comprising at least one male locking mechanism extending from each panel of the plurality of panels and at least partially received in a respective at least one female locking mechanism at least partially defined in each panel of the plurality of panels.

2. The carrier of claim 1 , wherein the at least one male locking feature is a locking tab and the at least one female locking feature is a locking opening.

3. The carrier of claim 2 , wherein the at least one female locking mechanism is at least partially defined in the at least one mounting panel.

4. 4. The carrier of claim 3, wherein the at least one mounting panel is a front mounting panel, the at least one side panel is a front side panel, the at least one top panel is a front top panel, and the plurality of panels further comprises a rear mounting panel, a rear side panel, and a rear top panel configured to receive a portion of one or more containers of the plurality of containers.

5. 5. The carrier of claim 4, wherein the at least one male locking feature is a first male locking feature extending from the front top panel and the at least one female locking feature is a first female locking feature at least partially defined in the front mounting panel, the locking features further including a second male locking feature extending from the front top panel and a second female locking feature at least partially defined between the front mounting panel and the rear mounting panel and at least partially receiving the second male locking feature.

6. 6. The carrier of claim 5, wherein the locking mechanism further comprises a third male locking mechanism extending from the rear top panel and at least partially received in a third female locking mechanism at least partially defined in the rear mounting panel.

7. 7. The carrier of claim 6, wherein said locking mechanism further comprises a fourth male locking mechanism extending from said rear top panel and at least partially received in said second female locking mechanism.

8. the locking mechanism further comprises a fourth female locking mechanism at least partially defined in the rear top panel, the fourth female locking mechanism at least partially receiving the second male locking mechanism; 7. The carrier of claim 6, wherein the fourth female locking feature is aligned with the second female locking feature such that each of the fourth female locking feature and the second female locking feature at least partially receives the second male locking feature.

9. 5. The carrier of claim 4, wherein the plurality of panels further comprises a front locking panel and a rear locking panel, the at least one male locking feature being a first male locking feature extending from the front locking panel and the at least one female locking feature being a first female locking feature at least partially defined in the front mounting panel and at least partially receiving the first male locking feature.

10. 10. The carrier of claim 9, wherein the locking mechanism further comprises: a second male locking mechanism extending from the front locking panel; and a second female locking mechanism defined at least partially between the front mounting panel and the rear mounting panel and at least partially receiving the second male locking mechanism.

11. 11. The carrier of claim 10, wherein the front lock panel is in at least partial face-to-face contact with the rear lock panel, and the locking mechanism includes a third female locking mechanism at least partially defined within the rear lock panel, the third female locking mechanism aligning with the second female locking mechanism such that each of the third female locking mechanism and the second female locking mechanism at least partially receives the second male locking mechanism.

12. 12. The carrier of claim 11, wherein the third female locking feature aligns with the first female locking feature such that each of the third female locking feature and the first female locking feature at least partially receives the first male locking feature.

13. 12. The carrier of claim 11, wherein the locking mechanism further comprises a third male locking mechanism extending from the front top panel and a fourth female locking mechanism at least partially defined in the front mounting panel and at least partially receiving the third male locking mechanism.

14. the locking mechanism further comprises a fifth female locking mechanism at least partially defined within the rear lock panel, the fifth female locking mechanism aligned with the first female locking mechanism such that the fifth female locking mechanism and the first female locking mechanism each at least partially receive the third male locking mechanism; the locking mechanism further comprises a fifth female locking mechanism at least partially defined within the rear lock panel, the fifth female locking mechanism aligned with the first female locking mechanism such that the fifth female locking mechanism and the first female locking mechanism each at least partially receive the third male locking mechanism; 14. The carrier of claim 13, wherein the locking mechanism further comprises a fifth male locking mechanism extending from the rear lock panel and at least partially received within a sixth female locking mechanism at least partially defined in the rear mounting panel.

15. the plurality of panels further comprises a front locking panel, the at least one male locking feature being a first male locking feature extending from the front locking panel, and the at least one female locking feature being a first female locking feature defined at least partially within the rear mounting panel and at least partially receiving the first male locking feature; 5. The carrier of claim 4, wherein the locking mechanism further comprises a second male locking mechanism extending from the front lock panel and a second female locking mechanism at least partially defined within the rear top panel, the second female locking mechanism at least partially receiving the second male locking mechanism, and the front lock panel and the rear top panel are disposed in at least partial face-to-face contact.

16. 1. A blank for forming a carrier to hold a plurality of containers, the blank comprising a plurality of panels including at least one mounting panel, at least one side panel, and at least one top panel configured to receive a portion of one or more containers of the plurality of containers, and a locking mechanism for maintaining an upright structure of the carrier formed from the blank, the locking mechanism comprising at least one male locking mechanism extending from each of the plurality of panels to be at least partially received in a respective at least one female locking mechanism at least partially defined in each of the plurality of panels when the carrier is formed from the blank.

17. the at least one male locking feature is a locking tab and the at least one female locking feature is a locking opening; The blank of claim 16 , wherein the at least one female locking mechanism is at least partially defined in the at least one mounting panel.

18. the at least one mounting panel is a front mounting panel, the at least one side panel is a front side panel, the at least one top panel is a front top panel, and the plurality of panels further comprises a rear mounting panel, a rear side panel, and a rear top panel configured to receive a portion of one or more containers of the plurality of containers; the at least one male locking feature is a first male locking feature extending from the front top panel, and the at least one female locking feature is a first female locking feature at least partially defined in the front mounting panel, the locking features further including a second male locking feature extending from the front top panel and a second female locking feature at least partially defined between the front mounting panel and the rear mounting panel for at least partially receiving the second male locking feature; 18. The blank of claim 17, wherein the locking mechanism further comprises a third male locking mechanism extending from the rear top panel and at least partially defined in the rear mounting panel for at least partially being received in a third female locking mechanism when the carrier is formed from the blank.

19. 20. The blank of claim 18, wherein the locking mechanism further comprises a fourth male locking mechanism extending from the rear top panel and adapted to be at least partially received in the second female locking mechanism when the carrier is formed from the blank.

20. the locking mechanism further comprises a fourth female locking mechanism at least partially defined in the rear top panel, the fourth female locking mechanism at least partially receiving the second male locking mechanism when the carrier is formed from the blank; 20. The blank of claim 18, wherein the fourth female locking feature is aligned with the second female locking feature such that each of the fourth female locking feature and the second female locking feature at least partially receives the second male locking feature when the carrier is formed from the blank.

21. The at least one mounting panel is a front mounting panel, the at least one side panel is a front side panel, the at least one top panel is a front top panel, and the plurality of panels further comprises a rear mounting panel, a rear side panel, and a rear top panel configured to receive a portion of one or more containers of the plurality of containers; 18. The blank of claim 17, wherein the plurality of panels further comprises a front locking panel and a rear locking panel, the at least one male locking feature being a first male locking feature extending from the front locking panel and the at least one female locking feature being a first female locking feature at least partially defined in the front mounting panel for at least partially receiving the first male locking feature when the carrier is formed from the blank.

22. 22. The blank of claim 21, wherein the locking mechanism further comprises: a second male locking mechanism extending from the front locking panel; and a second female locking mechanism defined at least partially between the front mounting panel and the rear mounting panel for at least partially receiving the second male locking mechanism when the carrier is formed from the blank.

23. 23. The blank of claim 22, wherein the locking mechanism includes a third female locking mechanism at least partially defined in the rear locking panel, the third female locking mechanism aligning with the second female locking mechanism such that the third female locking mechanism and the second female locking mechanism each at least partially receive the second male locking mechanism when the carrier is formed from the blank.

24. 24. The blank of claim 23, wherein the third female locking feature aligns with the first female locking feature such that when the carrier is formed from the blank, the third female locking feature and the first female locking feature each at least partially receive the first male locking feature.

25. the locking mechanism further comprises a third male locking mechanism extending from the front top panel and a fourth female locking mechanism defined at least partially in the front mounting panel for at least partially receiving the third male locking mechanism when the carrier is formed from the blank; the locking mechanism further comprises a fifth female locking mechanism at least partially defined within the rear lock panel, the fifth female locking mechanism aligned with the first female locking mechanism such that the fifth female locking mechanism and the first female locking mechanism each at least partially receive the third male locking mechanism; the locking mechanism further comprises a fourth male locking mechanism extending from the front mounting panel for at least partial face-to-face contact with a portion of the rear locking panel when the carrier is formed from the blank; 24. The blank of claim 23, wherein the locking mechanism further comprises a fifth male locking mechanism extending from the rear locking panel for being at least partially received within a sixth female locking mechanism defined at least partially in the rear mounting panel when the carrier is formed from the blank.

26. The method of claim 20, wherein the at least one mounting panel is a front mounting panel, the at least one side panel is a front side panel, the at least one top panel is a front top panel, and the plurality of panels further comprises a rear mounting panel, a rear side panel, and a rear top panel configured to receive a portion of one or more containers of the plurality of containers; the plurality of panels further comprising a front locking panel, the at least one male locking feature being a first male locking feature extending from the front locking panel, and the at least one female locking feature being a first female locking feature defined at least partially within the rear mounting panel for at least partially receiving the first male locking feature when the carrier is formed from the blank; 18. The blank of claim 17, wherein the locking mechanism further comprises a second male locking mechanism extending from the front lock panel and a second female locking mechanism at least partially defined in the rear top panel, the second female locking mechanism at least partially receiving the second male locking mechanism when the carrier is formed from the blank.

27. A method of forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the method comprising: obtaining a blank comprising a plurality of panels including at least one mounting panel, at least one side panel, and at least one top panel configured to receive a portion of one or more containers of the plurality of containers; and a locking mechanism including at least one male locking mechanism extending from each panel of the plurality of panels and at least one female locking mechanism at least partially defined in each panel of the plurality of panels; positioning the at least one mounting panel to at least partially receive one or more containers of the plurality of containers; and at least partially inserting the at least one male locking mechanism through the at least one female locking mechanism to maintain an upright configuration of the carrier.

28. the at least one male locking feature is a locking tab and the at least one female locking feature is a locking opening; 28. The method of claim 27, wherein the at least one female locking mechanism is at least partially defined in the at least one mounting panel.

29. the at least one mounting panel is a front mounting panel, the at least one side panel is a front side panel, the at least one top panel is a front top panel, and the plurality of panels further comprises a rear mounting panel, a rear side panel, and a rear top panel configured to receive a portion of one or more containers of the plurality of containers; the at least one male locking feature is a first male locking feature extending from the front top panel, and the at least one female locking feature is a first female locking feature at least partially defined in the front mounting panel, the locking feature further comprising a second male locking feature extending from the front top panel and a second female locking feature at least partially defined between the front mounting panel and the rear mounting panel, the second male locking feature being at least partially inserted into the second female locking feature; 30. The method of claim 28, wherein the locking mechanism further comprises a third male locking mechanism extending from the rear top panel and a third female locking mechanism at least partially defined in the rear mounting panel, and further comprising at least partially inserting the third male locking mechanism into the third female locking mechanism.

30. 30. The method of claim 29, wherein the locking mechanism further comprises a fourth male locking mechanism extending from the rear top panel, and further comprising at least partially inserting the fourth male locking mechanism into the second female locking mechanism.

31. the locking mechanism further comprises a fourth female locking mechanism at least partially defined in the rear top panel, the second male locking mechanism being at least partially inserted into the fourth female locking mechanism; 30. The method of claim 29, further comprising aligning said fourth female locking mechanism with said second female locking mechanism such that each of said fourth female locking mechanism and said second female locking mechanism is received at least partially through said second male locking mechanism.

32. The method of claim 31, wherein the at least one mounting panel is a front mounting panel, the at least one side panel is a front side panel, the at least one top panel is a front top panel, and the plurality of panels further comprises a rear mounting panel, a rear side panel, and a rear top panel configured to receive a portion of one or more containers of the plurality of containers; 30. The method of claim 28, wherein the plurality of panels further comprises a front locking panel and a rear locking panel, the at least one male locking feature is a first male locking feature extending from the front locking panel and the at least one female locking feature is a first female locking feature defined at least partially in the front mounting panel, and further comprising at least partially inserting the first male locking feature into the first female locking feature.

33. 33. The method of claim 32, wherein the locking mechanism further comprises a second male locking mechanism extending from the front locking panel and a second female locking mechanism defined at least partially between the front mounting panel and the rear mounting panel, and further comprising at least partially inserting the second male locking mechanism into the second female locking mechanism.

34. 34. The method of claim 33, further comprising positioning the front lock panel into at least partial facial contact with the rear lock panel, the locking mechanism including a third female locking mechanism at least partially defined in the rear lock panel, the method further comprising aligning the third female locking mechanism with the second female locking mechanism such that each of the third female locking mechanism and the second female locking mechanism at least partially receives the second male locking mechanism.

35. 35. The method of claim 34, further comprising aligning the third female locking feature and the first female locking feature such that each of the third female locking feature and the first female locking feature at least partially receives the first male locking feature.

36. the locking mechanism further comprises a third male locking mechanism extending from the front top panel and a fourth female locking mechanism at least partially defined in the front mounting panel, and further comprising at least partially inserting the third male locking mechanism into the fourth female locking mechanism; the locking mechanism further includes a fifth female locking mechanism at least partially defined within the rear lock panel, and further including aligning the fifth female locking mechanism with the first female locking mechanism such that each of the fifth female locking mechanism and the first female locking mechanism at least partially receives the third male locking mechanism; the locking mechanism further includes a fourth male locking mechanism extending from the front mounting panel, the fourth male locking mechanism further including positioning the fourth male locking mechanism in at least partial face contact with a portion of the rear mounting panel; 35. The method of claim 34, wherein the locking mechanism further comprises a fifth male locking mechanism extending from the rear lock panel and a sixth female locking mechanism at least partially defined in the rear mounting panel, and further comprising at least partially inserting the fifth male locking mechanism into the sixth female locking mechanism.

37. The method of claim 37, wherein the at least one mounting panel is a front mounting panel, the at least one side panel is a front side panel, the at least one top panel is a front top panel, and the plurality of panels further comprises a rear mounting panel, a rear side panel, and a rear top panel configured to receive a portion of one or more containers of the plurality of containers; the plurality of panels further includes a front locking panel, the at least one male locking feature being a first male locking feature extending from the front locking panel and the at least one female locking feature being a first female locking feature defined at least partially in the rear mounting panel, and further including at least partially inserting the first male locking feature into the first female locking feature; 30. The method of claim 28, wherein the locking mechanism further comprises a second male locking mechanism extending from the front lock panel and a second female locking mechanism at least partially defined in the rear top panel, and further comprising positioning the front lock panel and the rear top panel in at least partial face-to-face contact and at least partially inserting the second male locking mechanism into the second female locking mechanism.

38. A package comprising a plurality of containers and the carrier of claim 1 for holding the plurality of containers.

Images