Packaging

Abstract

Aspects of the disclosure relate to a packaging system, an apparatus (400, 500, 600, 700) for forming a package, an article carrier (90, 190, 390, 490) for packaging one or more articles, a blank (10, 110, 310, 410A-B) for forming the carrier, and a method of packaging one or more articles. The carrier (90, 190, 390, 490) comprises a main panel (12, 112, 312, 412) having one or more article retaining structures (RT1, RT2) for receiving and securing a respective article (B) to the main panel (12, 112, 312, 412). The carrier (90, 190, 390, 490) comprises at least one panel having a peripheral edge, a portion of which provides at least one alignment edge shaped to prevent movement in two orthogonal directions when engaged by a reference device (440, 540, 640, 740) of the packaging apparatus (400, 500, 600, 700).

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 213,420, filed June 22, 2021, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 287,476, filed December 8, 2021, the contents of both of which are incorporated by reference in their entireties herein.

[0002] The present invention relates to a packaging system, a packaging machine and apparatus therefor, article carriers and blanks for forming same, and a method for packaging articles. More particularly, but not exclusively, the present invention relates to a top grip type carrier having one or more openings for receiving and holding articles therein, and a method and apparatus for forming same. [Background technology]

[0003] 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 allowing consumers to transport, store and access groups of items in use. Due to cost and environmental considerations, such cartons or carriers should be formed from as little material as possible and waste as little of the material from which they are formed as possible. A further consideration is the strength of the carton and its suitability for holding and transporting heavy items. It is desirable for the contents of the carton to be secured within the carton.

[0004] It is known to provide a top gripping article carrier having an opening formed in a panel of the carrier, with a tab stamped out of the panel and positioned about the opening such that when an article is received in the opening, the tab is displaced out of the plane of the panel such that the tab engages the article generally about a flange or lip of the article.

[0005] It would be desirable to automate the formation of packages from article carriers by employing packaging machines that can operate at high production capacity, and in particular to package articles as they move continuously downstream through the packaging equipment. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] The present invention seeks to provide improvements in the field of packaging in cartons, usually formed from paperboard or the like, and an apparatus for erecting said cartons. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] A first aspect of the invention provides an article-engaging carrier for packaging at least one article, the carrier comprising a main panel having at least one article retaining structure for engaging an article, the carrier comprising at least one panel having a peripheral edge, a portion of the peripheral edge providing at least one registration edge configured to prevent movement in two orthogonal directions when engaged by a reference device of a packaging machine.

[0008] Optionally, the article carrier comprises a side panel hinged to the main panel by a hinge connection.

[0009] Optionally, the at least one registration edge is provided by a peripheral edge of a side panel.

[0010] Optionally, the at least one alignment edge comprises a front alignment edge and a rear alignment edge.

[0011] Optionally, the article carrier comprises a cover panel hingedly connected to the side panel by a hinge connection.

[0012] Optionally, the at least one registration edge is provided by a peripheral edge of the cover panel.

[0013] Optionally, the at least one alignment edge comprises a front alignment edge and a rear alignment edge.

[0014] Optionally, the article carrier comprises a pair of opposing side panels, each hinged to the main panel by a hinge connection and comprising at least one registration edge.

[0015] Optionally, the at least one alignment edge comprises a front alignment edge and a rear alignment edge.

[0016] Optionally, the article carrier comprises a pair of opposing side panels, each hingedly connected to the main panel by a hinge connection, and a cover panel hingedly connected to each of the pair of opposing side panels and comprising at least one alignment edge.

[0017] Optionally, the at least one alignment edge comprises a front alignment edge and a rear alignment edge.

[0018] Optionally, the article carrier comprises a pair of opposing end panels, each hinged to the main panel by a hinge connection.

[0019] Optionally, the panel, having a peripheral edge provided with at least one registration edge, is hinged to the main panel by a hinge connection.

[0020] Optionally, the panel having a peripheral edge with at least one registration edge is hinged to the main panel by at least one hinge panel.

[0021] Optionally, at least one panel comprises a pair of panels, each having an alignment edge, and a straight imaginary line passing through the alignment edges of each of the pair of panels passes through an opening in the main panel defined by the at least one item retaining structure.

[0022] Optionally, the main panel includes at least one stabilizing device configured to provide an opening in the main panel and to prevent movement in two orthogonal directions.

[0023] A second aspect of the invention provides an apparatus for packaging one or more articles in an article carrier, the apparatus comprising an article engagement tool for engaging the articles and conveying the articles in a downstream direction, the article engagement tool comprising a reference device for aligning at least one blank with the one or more articles.

[0024] Optionally, the apparatus comprises an overhead conveyor for conveying at least one blank onto the one or more articles.

[0025] Optionally, the reference device comprises an abutment pin that extends upwardly from the article engagement tool beyond a top end of the article or articles.

[0026] Optionally, the article engagement tool comprises a removable head to which the reference device is attached.

[0027] Optionally, the head comprises part of a tool-less attachment system.

[0028] Optionally, the tool-less attachment system comprises a bayonet fitting.

[0029] Optionally, the apparatus comprises a plurality of article engagement tools, each for engaging a respective article, weighing and grouping the articles, and conveying said articles in a downstream direction as at least one metered group.

[0030] Optionally, each of the plurality of article engaging tools is independently driven about an endless track having a working range and a return range.

[0031] Optionally, the plurality of article engaging tools comprises at least one front article engaging tool and at least one rear article engaging tool.

[0032] Optionally, the at least one front article engagement tool is configured to engage a respective front alignment edge of the at least one blank.

[0033] Optionally, the at least one rear article engagement tool is configured to engage a rear alignment edge of each of the at least one blank.

[0034] Optionally, the abutment pin is shaped to provide at least two points of contact with the alignment edge of the at least one blank to prevent movement of the at least one blank parallel to and transverse to the direction of flow of the at least one blank through the apparatus.

[0035] Optionally, the apparatus comprises an applicator for pressing the at least one blank into the at least one group of articles, the applicator comprising a plurality of article receiving orifices each for receiving a respective article of the at least one group of articles formed by the apparatus.

[0036] Optionally, the applicator comprises at least one stabilizing peg receivable into an opening of a stabilizing device provided in a main panel of the at least one blank, the at least one stabilizing peg configured to inhibit movement of the at least one blank relative to the applicator.

[0037] Optionally, in a direction parallel to the direction of flow of the at least one blank through the apparatus and in a transverse direction perpendicular to the direction of flow of the at least one blank through the apparatus, the at least one stabilizing peg prevents or inhibits movement of the at least one blank relative to the at least one group of articles.

[0038] Optionally, the applicator is mounted on the overhead conveyor in the form of a wheel such that the applicator applies at least one blank to the group of articles as they are conveyed downstream by the plurality of article engaging tools.

[0039] Optionally, the applicator comprises one or more folding brakes for folding at least one panel hinged to the main panel at least partially around the at least one group of articles, said panel comprising at least one alignment edge configured to engage with the reference device.

[0040] Optionally, the apparatus comprises one or more static folding guides for folding one or more panels of the at least one blank while the applicator is engaged with the at least one blank.

[0041] A third aspect of the present invention provides a method of packaging a plurality of items, the method comprising: conveying a stream of articles downstream through the packaging machine; engaging each article with an article engagement tool; Group at least one group of articles and at the same time applying at least one blank to a top end of the article; engaging at least one front alignment edge of at least one blank with a reference pin attached to a front article engagement tool; Weighing at least one group of articles; and engaging at least one rear alignment edge of the at least one blank with a reference pin attached to the rear article engagement tool.

[0042] Optionally, the method further comprises: The method further includes applying the at least one blank to the at least one group of articles for engaging each article in a respective article retaining device provided in a main panel of the at least one blank.

[0043] Optionally, the step of applying at least one blank to the at least one group of articles comprises: Inserting stabilizing pegs into openings in a stabilizing device in the main panel of the at least one blank prior to pressing the main panel onto the at least one group of articles.

[0044] Optionally, the step of applying at least one blank to the at least one group of articles comprises: The method further includes at least partially folding one or more panels coupled to the main panel and including at least one of a front and a rear alignment edge.

[0045] Optionally, one or more panels are folded prior to engaging the main panel with the at least one group of articles.

[0046] Optionally, one or more panels are folded simultaneously with engaging the main panel with the at least one group of articles.

[0047] Optionally, the one or more panels are folded after engaging the main panel with the at least one group of articles.

[0048] A fourth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a main panel having at least one article retaining structure for engaging an article, the blank comprising at least one panel having a peripheral edge, a portion of the peripheral edge providing at least one registration edge configured to inhibit movement in two orthogonal directions when engaged by a reference device of a packaging machine.

[0049] A fifth aspect of the present invention provides an applicator device for separating a plurality of connected blanks into individual blanks and pressing each blank into a group of two or more articles, the applicator comprising a plurality of article receiving orifices each for receiving a respective article, and a cutting device for severing frangible connections between adjacently disposed blanks.

[0050] Optionally, the applicator comprises at least one stabilizing peg receivable into an opening in a stabilizing device provided in a main panel of each blank, the at least one stabilizing peg configured to restrain movement of said blank relative to the applicator.

[0051] Optionally, the at least one stabilising peg is removably attached to the plate in which the article receiving orifice is provided.

[0052] Optionally, at least one stabilizing peg is keyed to a given receiving position on the plate.

[0053] Optionally, the at least one stabilizing peg is keyed to the plate in a given reception orientation.

[0054] Optionally, the applicator comprises a flat plate and at least one guide depending from the plate for holding the group of articles in a predetermined arrangement.

[0055] Optionally, the cutting device comprises one or more blades attached to a plate in which the article receiving orifices are provided.

[0056] Optionally, the one or more blades are removably attached to the plate.

[0057] Optionally, one or more of the blades include at least one detent for engaging a catch in a slot provided in the plate.

[0058] Optionally, the plate includes one or more release openings to allow release of the detent from the catch.

[0059] Optionally, the plate includes a plurality of blade receiving locations and a plurality of blades that can be reconfigured to a desired arrangement to accommodate a given configuration of connected blanks.

[0060] A sixth aspect of the present invention provides a cutting apparatus for separating a plurality of connected article carriers engaged with a group of articles, the cutting apparatus comprising a flat plate having a plurality of article receiving orifices each for receiving a respective article, a plurality of blade receiving locations each capable of removably mounting a cutting blade for severing frangible connections between adjacently positioned carriers, and a plurality of blades removably mounted to the plate, the plurality of blades being reconfigurable into a desired arrangement to correspond to a given configuration of the connected carriers.

[0061] Optionally, the plurality of blades are mountable to the plate in a first arrangement to separate a first configuration of connected carriers and are mountable to the plate in a second, different arrangement to separate a second, different configuration of connected carriers.

[0062] A seventh aspect of the invention provides a plurality of connected blanks for forming a plurality of article carriers. Each blank is frangibly connected to at least one adjacent blank by a frangible connection comprising at least one pair of connecting nicks. Each blank comprises an engagement panel having at least one article retention device for receiving and suspending an article therefrom. A first article retention device in a first blank and a second article retention device in a second blank define an imaginary line passing through a center of each of the first and second article retention devices. The imaginary line is perpendicular to the frangible connection between the first and second blanks. A pair of connecting nicks are disposed on either side of the imaginary line. The imaginary line defines a region of closest proximity between the first and second article retention devices.

[0063] An eighth aspect of the invention provides an apparatus for packaging one or more articles in an article carrier, the apparatus comprising an article engagement tool for engaging the articles and conveying the articles in a downstream direction, the article engagement tool comprising a reference device for aligning a plurality of connected blanks with a group of two or more articles.

[0064] Optionally, the apparatus comprises an applicator for separating the plurality of connected blanks into individual blanks and pressing each blank into a group of two or more articles, the applicator comprising a plurality of article receiving orifices each for receiving a respective article, and a cutting device for breaking the frangible connections between adjacently positioned blanks.

[0065] Optionally, the applicator comprises at least one stabilizing peg receivable into an opening in a stabilizing device provided in a main panel of each blank, the at least one stabilizing peg configured to restrain movement of said blank relative to the applicator.

[0066] Optionally, at least one stabilizing peg prevents or inhibits movement of the blank relative to the group of articles in a direction parallel to the direction of flow of the blank through the apparatus and in a lateral direction perpendicular to the direction of flow of the blank through the apparatus.

[0067] Optionally, the applicator is mounted on an overhead conveyor in the form of a wheel such that the applicator applies blanks to groups of articles as they are conveyed downstream by the multiple article engaging tools.

[0068] Optionally, the apparatus comprises an overhead conveyor for transporting the plurality of connected blanks onto the one or more articles.

[0069] Optionally, the reference device comprises an abutment pin that extends upwardly from the article engagement tool beyond a top end of the article or articles.

[0070] Optionally, the article engagement tool comprises a removable head to which the reference device is attached.

[0071] Optionally, the apparatus comprises a plurality of article engagement tools, each for engaging a respective article, weighing and grouping the articles, and conveying said articles downstream as a weighed group.

[0072] Optionally, the plurality of article engaging tools comprises at least one front article engaging tool and at least one rear article engaging tool.

[0073] Optionally, the at least one front article engagement tool is configured to engage a front alignment edge of each of the plurality of connected blanks.

[0074] Optionally, the at least one rear article engagement tool is configured to engage a rear alignment edge of each of the plurality of connected blanks.

[0075] A ninth aspect of the present invention provides a method of packaging a plurality of articles, the method comprising: forming a group of at least two articles; applying a plurality of connected blanks to a top end of the article; engaging a reference pin on a plurality of joined blanks to align said joined blanks with the article; lowering the applicator against the article and the plurality of joined blanks so as to insert a stabilizing pin into an opening in each of the blanks; further lowering the applicator to rupture the frangible connections between the adjacently disposed blanks; contacting a flat plate of an applicator with each of the individual blanks; and further lowering the applicator to press the individual blanks over the top edge of the article, displacing the engagement tabs upwardly out of the plane of the blank until the tabs engage a flange around the top edge of the article.

[0076] A tenth aspect of the present invention provides a method of packaging a plurality of items, the method comprising: conveying a stream of articles downstream through the packaging machine; engaging each article with an article engagement tool; Group multiple groups of items together and at the same time, applying a plurality of connected blanks to a top end of the article; engaging at least one front alignment edge of the blank with a reference pin attached to a front article engagement tool; Weighing a group of articles; and engaging a reference pin attached to a rear article engagement tool with at least one rear alignment edge of the plurality of connected blanks.

[0077] Optionally, the method further comprises: The method further includes the steps of separating the plurality of connected blanks into individual blanks and applying the individual blanks to a group of articles to engage each article in a respective article retaining device provided in a main panel of the blank.

[0078] Optionally, the step of applying a blank to the group of articles comprises: Prior to the step of separating the plurality of connected blanks into individual blanks, a step of inserting a stabilizing peg into an opening in a stabilizing device provided in a main panel of each blank.

[0079] An eleventh aspect of the invention provides a plurality of connected blanks for forming a multiple article carrier, each blank frangibly connected to at least one adjacent blank by a frangible connection, each blank of the plurality of connected blanks comprising a main panel having at least one article retaining structure for engaging an article, the plurality of connected blanks comprising at least one panel having a peripheral edge, a portion of the peripheral edge providing at least one registration edge configured to inhibit movement in two orthogonal directions when engaged by a reference device of a packaging machine.

[0080] A twelfth aspect of the present invention provides a separator apparatus for separating a plurality of connected article carriers into individual article carriers, the separator comprising a cutting device for severing frangible connections between adjacently disposed article carriers.

[0081] Optionally, the separator comprises at least one stabilizing peg receivable into an opening in a stabilizing device provided in the main panel of each article carrier, the at least one stabilizing peg configured to inhibit movement of said article carrier relative to the separator.

[0082] Optionally, the separator comprises at least one guide for aligning a plurality of connected article carriers.

[0083] Optionally, the separator comprises a pair of opposing guides for positioning the plurality of connected article carriers, the plurality of connected article carriers being receivable between the pair of opposing guides.

[0084] Optionally, the separators are mounted on an overhead conveyor and transported continuously downstream through the working envelope of the packaging machine in synchronism with the article carriers.

[0085] Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the specific embodiments illustrated in the drawings and described below.

[0086] 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 the following description, as well as in the drawings, may be considered or employed independently or in any combination thereof.

[0087] Features or elements described in connection with or in relation to one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments, unless there is an incompatibility of features. One or more features or elements from one embodiment may be incorporated or combined with any of the other embodiments disclosed herein, and said features or elements extracted from said one embodiment may be included in addition to or instead of one or more features or elements of said other embodiments.

[0088] 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.

[0089] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0090] [Figure 1]FIG. 2 is a top plan view of a blank for forming a carrier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] 2 is a top perspective view of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 1; FIG. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of a blank for forming a carrier according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 3. [Figure 5A] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of a blank for forming a carrier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the blank of FIG. 5A. [Figure 6] FIG. 5B is a top perspective view of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 5A. [Figure 7] 1 is a top perspective view of a packaging device forming part of a packaging system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is an end view of the packaging device of FIG. [Figure 9] FIG. 8 is a plan view of the packaging device of FIG. [Figure 10] 8 is a perspective view of the packaging device of FIG. 7 from below. [Figure 11] 1 is a top perspective view of a packaging device forming part of a packaging system according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure; FIG. [Figure 12] 1 is a top side view of a packaging device forming part of a packaging system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of a pair of joined blanks, each forming a carrier, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] 14A-14C show stages of configuration of the connected blanks of FIG. 13 into a carrier by an applicator device. [Figure 15] 14A-14C show stages of configuration of the connected blanks of FIG. 13 into a carrier by an applicator device. [Figure 16] 14A-14C show stages of configuration of the connected blanks of FIG. 13 into a carrier by an applicator device. [Figure 17] 14A-14C show stages of configuration of the connected blanks of FIG. 13 into a carrier by an applicator device. [Figure 18] 11A-11D illustrate cutting blades according to various embodiments for use with an applicator device. [Figure 19] 1 is a side view of a packaging device forming part of a packaging system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20] 1 is a bottom perspective view of a separation device forming part of a packaging system according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is an end view of the separation device of FIG. 20. [Figure 22] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the separation device of FIG. 20. [Figure 23] 21 is a cross-sectional view of the separation device of FIG. 20 in operative engagement with a group of a plurality of packaged articles. [Figure 24] 21A-21C are side views of a packaging apparatus illustrating various stages of operation of the separation device according to the embodiment of FIG. 20. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0091] Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of packaging systems, devices, method 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 may be implemented, and do not represent an exhaustive list of all ways in which the invention may be implemented. As used herein, the term "exemplary" is used broadly to refer to embodiments that serve as examples, specimens, models, or patterns. Indeed, it will be understood that the packaging systems, devices, methods, packages, blanks, and carriers described herein may 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 are not necessarily described in detail to avoid obscuring the disclosure. Specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be interpreted as limitations, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to use the invention in various ways.

[0092] Referring to Figure 1, a plan view of a blank 10 is shown which may form a carton or carrier 90 as shown in Figure 2 for containing and transporting a group of primary products such as, but not limited to, bottles or cans, hereinafter referred to as Article B. Article B may be generally cylindrical, or Article B may have a circular cross-sectional shape at least around the area of ​​engagement with the carrier 90. The blank 10 forms a secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package. Alternative blanks 110, 310, 410A-B are shown in Figures 3-6 and 13-17 for forming alternative cartons or carriers 190, 390, 490.

[0093] 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, for non-limiting purposes of describing various features of the present invention. It is believed that the teachings of the present invention may be applied to a variety of product containers, which may or may not be tapered and / or cylindrical. Exemplary containers include bottles (e.g., metal, glass or plastic bottles), cans (e.g., aluminum cans), tins, pouches, packets, and the like.

[0094] The blanks 10, 110, 310, 410A-B are formed from sheets of a suitable substrate. As used herein, it should be understood that the term "suitable substrate" includes any type of foldable sheet material, such as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, and the like. It should be recognized that one or other number of blanks may be employed, where appropriate, to provide, for example, a carrier structure, which is described in more detail below.

[0095] The packaging structures or cartons described herein may be formed from sheet materials such as paperboard, and may be made or coated with materials to enhance strength. An example of such sheet material is tear-resistant NATRALOCK® paperboard manufactured by WestRock Corporation. It should be noted that the tear-resistant material may be provided with two or more layers to facilitate improved tear resistance of the package. Typically, one side of the sheet material may have different properties than the other side. For example, the surface of the sheet material facing outward from the finished package may be particularly smooth, or may have a coating, such as a clay coating or other surface treatment, to provide good printability. On the other hand, the surface of the sheet material facing inward may be coated, layered, treated, or otherwise prepared to provide properties such as one or more of tear resistance, good adhesion, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties.

[0096] 1-12, the blanks 10, 110, 310 are configured to form a carton or carrier 90, 190, 390 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary items B. In the illustrated embodiment, the arrangement is a 2×4 matrix or array providing two rows of four items B, where items B are beverage cans. Alternatively, the blanks 10, 110, 310 may be configured to form a carrier for packaging other types, numbers and sizes of items and / or for packaging items in different arrangements or configurations.

[0097] In the embodiment shown in Figures 1-6, blanks 10, 110, 310 are configured to accommodate smooth or slim design beverage cans, which may be 330 ml cans. Articles B have substantially the same diameter across their entire height. Exemplary Article B has a maximum diameter or lateral dimension (which may be about 2.25 inches or about 58 mm). Article B includes a top portion or top closure having a diameter or lateral dimension (which may be about 2.125 inches or 54.8 mm).

[0098] The neck may provide an outwardly protruding flange, i.e., with an undercut for engaging the carrier. The top closure may be attached to a sidewall of Article B to form a seam or "lip" that provides the flange. In some embodiments, the change in diameter between the top closure and the body of Article B is less than 7 mm, may be less than 5 mm, and optionally is less than 4 mm.

[0099] As used herein, the terms "smooth" or "slim" refer to Article B having little or no change in lateral dimension between the top closure of Article B, which engages the carrier 90, 190, 390, and the body of Article B. Article B is substantially parallel sided or of substantially uniform diameter.

[0100] Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown a blank 10 comprising a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 including a main panel 12 for forming a top wall or mating panel of a carrier 90 (see FIG. 2).

[0101] Blank 10 includes a first end panel 14 hinged to a first end of main panel 12 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 13. Blank 10 includes a second end panel 16 hinged to a second side of main panel 12 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 15.

[0102] Blank 10 includes a first side panel 18 hinged to a first side of main panel 12 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 17. Blank 10 includes a second side panel 20 hinged to a second side of main panel 12 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 19.

[0103] The main panel 12 includes at least one item retention structure RT1, RT2. In the illustrated embodiment, the main panel 12 includes a plurality of item retention structures RT1, RT2, specifically eight item retention structures RT1, RT2, arranged in a 4×2 matrix or array. The main panel 12 includes two columns of item retention structures RT1, RT2, each column including four item retention structures RT1, RT2. The main panel 12 includes four rows of item retention structures RT1, RT2, each row including two item retention structures RT1, RT2. Each of the item retention structures RT1, RT2 may include an opening A1, A2.

[0104] The blank 10 includes four first article retention structures RT1. The first article retention structures RT1 are located adjacent the ends of the main panel 12. The blank 10 includes four second article retention structures RT2. The second article retention structures RT2 are located between a first pair of first article retention structures RT1 located adjacent the first end of the main panel 12 and a second pair of first article retention structures RT1 located adjacent the second end of the main panel 12. The second article retention structures RT2 are also referred to herein as intermediate article retention structures RT2. The first article retention structures RT1 are also referred to herein as end article retention structures RT1.

[0105] Each of the first item retaining structures RT1 is substantially similar in configuration and therefore will be described in detail with reference to a first of the first item retaining structures RT1 located adjacent the first end of the blank 10 as shown in FIG.

[0106] The first item retaining structure RT1 includes an item receiving opening defined in part by an opening A1.

[0107] The first article holding structure RT1 includes a plurality of engagement teeth 40a, 40b, 40c arranged around the opening A1.

[0108] The plurality of tines 40a, 40b, 40c are hinged to the main panel 12 by fold lines. The fold lines may be defined by a plurality of cut lines 43, 45. The plurality of cut lines 43, 45 may define or approximate a squircle or rounded square.

[0109] The first article retaining structure RT1 may include a plurality of first teeth or complete teeth 40a arranged around the opening A1. Each of the plurality of first teeth 40a includes an engagement edge E1 facing the hinged edge. The engagement edge E1 is defined by a straight portion of the cut line that defines the opening A1. Each engagement edge E1 defines a portion of a polygon. The illustrated embodiment includes four first teeth 40a. Each tooth 46 includes a pair of side edges that are defined by a cut line 41 that extends radially outward from a respective apex of the polygon. That is, from a respective apex between a pair of adjacent straight portions of the cut line that defines the opening A1. The cut lines 41 are arranged divergently with respect to each other and define an angle therebetween, which may be about 22.5°.

[0110] The first item retaining structure RT1 may include a plurality of first circumferential cutting lines 43. Each of the plurality of first circumferential cutting lines 43 is aligned with one of the radial cutting lines 41 such that one of the radial cutting lines 41 or an imaginary extension thereof bisects each of the plurality of first circumferential cutting lines 43.

[0111] Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 43 is spaced apart from one of the radial cut lines 41 that bisects it so as to define a connecting nick or bridge portion between a pair of adjacently disposed teeth 40a, 40b, 40c. Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 43 may be straight.

[0112] The first article retaining structure RT1 may include a plurality of second circumferential cut lines 45. Each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 45 is disposed between a pair of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 43 and spaced apart from the first circumferential cut lines 43 to define a pair of connecting nicks or bridge portions between each of the teeth 40a, 40b, 40c and the main panel 12. The pair of connecting nicks or bridge portions provide a hinged or foldable connection between each of the teeth 40a, 40b, 40c and the main panel 12.

[0113] Each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 45 may be straight. In an alternative embodiment, each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 43 may be arcuate or curved. In an alternative embodiment, each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 45 may be arcuate or curved.

[0114] In the illustrated embodiment, the radius of curvature of each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 45 is equal to the radius of curvature of each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 43, but may be different in other embodiments.

[0115] Optionally, the plurality of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c are interrupted by a first recess or notch C1. The first recess C1 lies on a first imaginary line. The first imaginary line extends radially through the center of the opening A1 and passes through the center of the first recess C1. The first imaginary line extends laterally of the blank 10. The first imaginary line may extend along the grain of the blank 10. The first imaginary line may be oriented parallel to the grain direction.

[0116] Optionally, the plurality of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c are interrupted by a second recess or notch C2. The second recess C2 lies on a second imaginary line. The second imaginary line extends radially from the center of the opening A1 and passes through the center of the second recess C2. The second imaginary line extends in a longitudinal direction of the blank 10. The second imaginary line may extend across the grain of the blank 10. The second imaginary line may be oriented perpendicular to the grain direction.

[0117] The first recess C1 is dimensioned to occupy a first circular arc defined by a first sub-sector defined in part by a first imaginary sector line extending radially from the center of the opening A1 and passing through a side edge of a first partial tooth 40b disposed adjacent to a first side surface of the first recess C1, and in part by a second imaginary sector line extending radially from the center of the opening A1 and passing through a side edge of a second partial tooth 40b disposed adjacent to a second of the opposing side surface of the first recess C1.

[0118] The second recess C2 is dimensioned to occupy a second arc defined by a second sub-sector defined in part by a third sector imaginary line extending radially from the center of the opening A1 and passing through a side edge of a third partial tooth 40b disposed adjacent to a first side surface of the second recess C2, and in part by a fourth sector imaginary line extending radially from the center of the opening A1 and passing through a side edge of a fourth partial tooth 40b disposed adjacent to a second of the opposing side surface of the second recess C2.

[0119] The first and third sector imaginary lines define a first toothed sector or arc therebetween. The second and fourth sector imaginary lines define a second toothed sector or arc therebetween.

[0120] The first item retaining structure RT1 may include at least one tab 42, 44. The illustrated embodiment includes a pair of tabs 42, 44. The tabs 42, 44 are located orthogonal to one another around the perimeter of the opening. The tabs 42, 44 may engage an item received in the first item retaining structure RT1, and the tabs 42, 44 do not support or bear the load of item B (or any portion thereof).

[0121] The tabs 42, 44 facilitate folding of the side and end panels 14, 16, 18, 20 and / or holding the side and end panels 14, 16, 18, 20 in a folded position.

[0122] Each of the first article retaining structures RT1 may include at least one first tab 42 integral with one of the first and second end panels 14, 16. The first tab 42 is disposed opposite the second recess C2. The center of the first tab 42 lies on the second imaginary line.

[0123] Each of the first item retaining structures RT1 may include at least one second tab 44 integral with one of the first and second side panels 18, 20. The second tab 44 is disposed opposite the first recess C1. The center of the second tab 44 lies on the first imaginary line.

[0124] The first and second tabs 42, 44 are defined at least in part by a cut line. The cut line is substantially "U" shaped. The cut line is asymmetric. The cut line includes a base portion defining a portion of the opening A1 and a pair of leg portions extending from the opening A1. A first leg portion of the leg portions is longer than a second leg portion of the leg portions. The first leg portion may terminate in a "J" or "C" shaped cut. The first leg portion is disposed closer to a corner of the main panel 12 than the second leg portion.

[0125] The first article retaining structure RT1 may include second partial teeth 40c disposed on either side of each of the first and second tabs 42, 44. The second partial teeth 40c are separated from one of the first or second tabs 42, 44 by one of the first or second leg portions of a "U" shaped cut line.

[0126] The first and second tabs 42, 44 are longer or taller than the height of the engagement teeth 40a, 40b, 40c. The first and second tabs 42, 44 can be considered to extend into the opening A1 to reduce the width or diameter of the opening A1.

[0127] The plurality of first and second circumferential cut lines 43, 45 define a non-circular shaped opening. The opening may be a squircle or a truncated circle.

[0128] The full teeth 40a may have a constant radial height dimension over the arc or sector they define. The hinge connection of each full tooth 40a may define a portion of a circle, or may define a portion of a squircle.

[0129] The partial teeth 40b, 40c may have a radial height dimension that varies across their width. The height of the partial teeth 40b, 40c, the distance between the hinge connection to the main panel 12 and the opposing free edge defined by the opening A1, may decrease toward the recesses C1, C2 or tabs 42, 44.

[0130] The first article retaining structure RT1 may comprise individual groups of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c defined between a pair of recesses C1, C2, between a pair of tabs 42, 44, or between one of the recesses C1, C2 and one of the tabs 42, 44. Each group of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c may comprise one full tooth 40a and a pair of partial teeth 40b, 40c. The partial teeth 40b, 40c may be disposed on either side of the full tooth 40a and separated therefrom by a radial cut line 41. The first article retaining structure RT1 may comprise at least one, two, or more individual groups of at least two, three, or more teeth 40a, 40b, 40c.

[0131] Each group of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c is hinged to the main panel 12 by a hinge connection that may be non-circular in shape and defined by a squircle, a truncated circle, a flattened circle, or a portion of a rounded square, or the shape may be or approximate a super-ellipse or hyper-ellipse.

[0132] Each of the second item holding structures RT2 is substantially similar in configuration and will therefore be described in detail with reference to the first item holding structure RT2 of the second item holding structures RT2 located adjacent to the first item holding structure RT1 of the first item holding structures RT1, as shown in FIG. 1.

[0133] The second item retaining structure RT2 includes an item receiving opening partially defined by a second opening A2.

[0134] The second article retaining structure RT2 includes a plurality of teeth 50a, 50b, 50c arranged around the second opening A2.

[0135] The plurality of tines 50a, 50b, 50c are hinged to the main panel 12 by fold lines. The fold lines may be defined by a plurality of cut lines 53, 55. The plurality of cut lines 53, 55 may define or approximate a squircle.

[0136] The second opening A2 may comprise a plurality of first teeth or complete teeth 50a arranged around the second opening A2. Each of the plurality of first teeth 50a comprises an engagement edge E2 opposite the hinged edge. The engagement edge E2 is defined by a straight portion of the cut line that defines the second opening A2. Each engagement edge E2 defines a portion or side of a polygon. The illustrated embodiment comprises four first teeth 50a that together define a portion of a polygon. Each tooth 50a comprises a pair of side edges that are defined by cut lines 51 that extend radially outward from respective vertices of the polygon, i.e., from respective vertices between a pair of adjacent straight portions of the cut lines that define the second opening A2. The cut lines 51 are arranged divergently relative to one another and define an angle therebetween, which may be about 22.5°.

[0137] The second item retaining structure RT2 may include a plurality of first circumferential cutting lines 53. Each of the plurality of first circumferential cutting lines 53 is aligned with one of the radial cutting lines 51 such that said one of the radial cutting lines 41, or an imaginary extension thereof, bisects each of the plurality of first circumferential cutting lines 53.

[0138] Each of the plurality of first circumferential cuts 53 is spaced from one of the radial cuts 41 that bisects it so as to define a connecting nick or bridge portion between a pair of adjacently disposed teeth 50a, 50b, 50c. The connecting nick or bridge portion is located proximate the base of the teeth 50a, 50b, 50c.

[0139] Each of the plurality of first circumferential cutting lines 53 may be a straight line.

[0140] The second article retaining structure RT2 may include a plurality of second circumferential cut lines 55. Each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 55 is disposed between a pair of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 53 and spaced apart from the first circumferential cut lines 53 to define a pair of connecting nicks or bridge portions between each of the teeth 50a, 50b, 50c and the main panel 12. The pair of connecting nicks or bridge portions provide a hinged or foldable connection between each of the teeth 50a, 50b, 50c and the main panel 12.

[0141] Each of the plurality of second circumferential cutting lines 55 may be a straight line.

[0142] The plurality of teeth 50a, 50b, 50c are interrupted by a first recess or notch C1, a second recess or notch C2, and a third recess or notch C3. The second and third recesses C2, C3 each lie on a second imaginary line extending longitudinally of the blank 10. The second imaginary line extends radially from the center of the second open portion A2 and passes through the center of each of the second and third recesses C2, C3.

[0143] The first and second recesses C1, C2 are substantially similar in configuration and arrangement to the first and second recesses C1, C2 of the first article holding structure RT1. The third recess is substantially similar in configuration and arrangement to the second recesses C1, C2, but opposite.

[0144] The second and third recesses C2, C3 are opposed to each other in the radial direction.

[0145] The first recess C1 is oriented or positioned substantially perpendicular to the second and third recesses C2, C3.

[0146] The centers of the second and third recesses C2, C3 of the second article holding structure RT2 are collinear with the center of the second recess C2 of the first article holding structure RT1.

[0147] The third recess C3 of the second article retaining structure RT2 is disposed adjacent to and oriented opposite the second recess C2 of the first article retaining structure RT1.

[0148] Each of the first recesses C1 of the second article holding structures RT2 is disposed adjacent to and oriented opposite to the first recesses C1 of the adjacently disposed second article holding structures RT2.

[0149] Each of the first recesses C1 of the first article holding structures RT1 is disposed adjacent to and oriented opposite to the first recesses C1 of the adjacently disposed first article holding structures RT1.

[0150] The second item retaining structure RT2 may include at least one tab 54. The illustrated embodiment includes a single tab 54. The tab 54 may engage an item received in the second item retaining structure RT2, and the tab 54 does not support or bear the load of item B (or any portion thereof).

[0151] The tabs 54 facilitate folding of the side panels 18, 20 one way and / or holding the side panels 18, 20 in a folded position.

[0152] Each of the second article retaining structures RT2 includes a tab 54 integral with one of the first and second side panels 18, 20. The tab 54 is disposed opposite the first recess C1. The center of the tab 54 lies on the first imaginary line.

[0153] The tab 54 is defined at least in part by a cut line. The cut line is substantially "U" shaped. The cut line is symmetrical. The cut line includes a base portion that defines a portion of the opening A2 and a pair of leg portions extending from the base portion. A length of a first leg portion of the leg portion is equal to a length of a second leg portion of the leg portion.

[0154] The second article retaining structure RT2 may include second partial teeth 50c disposed on either side of the tab 54. The second partial teeth 50c are separated from the tab 54 by one of the first or second leg portions of the "U" shaped cut line.

[0155] Tab 54 is longer or taller than the height of engagement teeth 50a, 50b, 50c. Tab 54 may be thought of as extending into opening A2 to reduce the width or radius of opening A2.

[0156] The plurality of first and second circumferential cut lines 53, 55 define a non-circular shaped opening. The opening may be a squircle or a truncated circle.

[0157] The full teeth 50a may have a constant radial height dimension over the arc or sector they define. The hinge connections of each full tooth 50a may define a portion of a circle.

[0158] The partial teeth 50b, 50c may have a radial height dimension that varies across their width. The height of the partial teeth 50b, 50c, the distance between the hinge connection to the main panel 12 and the opposing free edge defined by the opening A2, may decrease toward the recesses C1, C2, C3 or the tab 54.

[0159] The second article retaining structure RT2 may comprise individual groups of teeth 50a, 50b, 50c defined between a pair of recesses C1, C2, C3 or between one of the recesses C1, C2, C3 and the tab 44. Each group of teeth 50a, 50b, 50c may comprise one full tooth 50a and a pair of partial teeth 50b, 50c. The partial teeth 50b, 50c may be disposed on either side of the full tooth 50a and separated therefrom by a radial cut line 51. The second article retaining structure RT2 may comprise at least one, two, or more individual groups of at least two, three, or more teeth 50a, 50b, 50c.

[0160] Each group of teeth 50a, 50b, 50c is hinged to the main panel 12 by a hinge connection that may be non-circular in shape and defined by a squircle, a truncated circle, a flattened circle, or a portion of a rounded square, or the shape may be or approximate a super-ellipse or hyper-ellipse.

[0161] The fold line 13 hingedly connecting the first end panel 14 to the main panel 12 may be non-linear and may be curved or arcuate. The fold line 13 hingedly connecting the first end panel 14 to the main panel 12 extends substantially between a pair of adjacently disposed first article retaining structures RT1. The fold line 13 defines a convex hinge portion when viewed from the outside.

[0162] The fold line 15 hingedly connecting the second end panel 16 to the main panel 12 may be non-linear and may be curved or arcuate. The fold line 15 hingedly connecting the second end panel 16 to the main panel 12 extends substantially between a pair of adjacently disposed first article retaining structures RT1. The fold line 15 defines a convex hinge portion when viewed from the outside.

[0163] The fold line 17 hingedly connecting the first side panel 18 to the main panel 12 may be non-linear and may be curved or arcuate. The fold line 17 hingedly connecting the first side panel 18 to the main panel 12 comprises a plurality of curved portions that extend substantially between a pair of adjacently disposed article retention structures RT1, RT2. The fold line 17 defines a plurality of convex hinge portions when viewed externally.

[0164] The fold line 19 hingedly connecting the second side panel 20 to the main panel 12 may be non-linear and may be curved or arcuate. The fold line 19 hingedly connecting the second side panel 20 to the main panel 12 comprises a plurality of curved portions that extend substantially between the pair of adjacently disposed article retention structures RT1, RT2. The fold line 19 defines a plurality of convex hinge portions when viewed externally.

[0165] Each curved hinge portion extends substantially between a pair of tabs 42,44.

[0166] Each curved fold line 13, 15, 17, 19 curves toward and terminates at or is adjacent to a curved hinge connection between the groups of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c and 50a, 50b, 50c.

[0167] Each curved fold line 13,15,17,19 and / or curved hinge connection between the groups of teeth 40a,40b,40c and 50a,50b,50c terminates at or is adjacent to the end of the cut line that defines the tabs 42,44.

[0168] In the embodiment shown in Figure 1, the fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 are defined by a plurality of spaced apart cut lines. The curved hinge connection between the groups of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c, and 50a, 50b, 50c and the main panel 12 is defined by a plurality of spaced apart circumferential cut lines 43, 45, 53, 55. The imaginary extensions of the extreme or terminal cut lines defining the fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 intersect or converge with the notional extensions of the extreme or terminal cut lines defining the curved hinge connection between the groups of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c, and 50a, 50b, 50c and the main panel 12, which in the illustrated embodiment is effected by one of the second circumferential cut lines 45, 55.

[0169] Each curved fold line 13, 15, 17, 19 may converge at or adjacent to a tab 42, 44 at a respective curved hinge connection between the groups of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c and 50a, 50b, 50c, and may converge at the ends of the cut lines that define said tabs 42, 44.

[0170] This provides the advantage of directing load forces or stresses to the sidewalls of article B so as to increase the structural integrity or rigidity of carrier 90, and can be particularly advantageous for impact forces directed at the ends or sides of carrier 90.

[0171] The curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 may create tension or bias in the side or end walls 14, 16, 18, 20, which may improve the resistance of the side or end walls 14, 16, 18, 20 to impacts.

[0172] The curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 create tension or bias in the side or end walls 14, 16, 18, 20 which may have the effect of creating an over-center or toggle mechanism that creates bi-stability, i.e., two stable states or positions, a folded stable position and an unfolded stable position. This may facilitate retention of the side or end walls 14, 16, 18, 20 in a folded position relative to the main panel 12 in addition to, or in lieu of, the tabs 42, 44. In this manner, the need for adhesives or other such fastening means may be negated.

[0173] The fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 are non-linear such that at least one end portion thereof curves around one of the item retention structures RT1, RT2 toward an adjacent annular fold line, which is defined by a plurality of circumferential cut lines 43, 45, 53, 55.

[0174] The fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 are non-linear such that at least one end portion is curved toward the adjacent engaging tooth 40c.

[0175] Fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 are non-linear such that at least one end portion thereof curves toward the adjacent article receiving opening or aperture A1, A2.

[0176] The fold lines 17, 19 are curved such that a first distance d1 between the terminus of the fold lines 17, 19 and a second imaginary line YY oriented in the longitudinal direction of the blank 10 and passing through the center of the receiving opening A1, A2 is less than a second distance d2, which is the maximum distance between the line YY and the respective fold line 17, 19. It will be understood that the fold lines 13, 15 are similarly positioned with respect to a first imaginary line XX oriented in the transverse direction of the blank 10 and passing through the center of the receiving opening A1.

[0177] The first end panel 14 is hingedly connected to the main panel 12 at first and second ends by first and second sections of a hinge connection in the form of a pair of fold lines 13a, 13b that are divergently disposed relative to one another.

[0178] The first side panel 18 is hingedly connected to the main panel 12 at first and second ends by first and second sections of the hinge connection in the form of a pair of fold lines 17a, 17b that are divergently disposed relative to one another.

[0179] A first end of the first end panel 14 and a first end of the first side panel 18 are hinged about a first corner 12a of the main panel 12. The first section 13a of the fold line 13 and the first section 17a of the fold line 17 are arranged converging and may be arranged diagonally relative to one another. The first section 13a of the fold line 13 and the first section 17a of the fold line 17 at least partially define a substantially triangular corner portion of the main panel 12 adjacent the first item retaining structure RT1.

[0180] The second end panel 16 is hingedly connected to the main panel 12 at first and second ends by first and second sections of a hinge connection in the form of a pair of fold lines 15a, 15b that are divergently disposed relative to one another.

[0181] The second side panel 20 is hingedly connected to the main panel 12 at first and second ends by first and second sections of the hinge connection in the form of a pair of fold lines 19a, 19b. The pair of fold lines 97a, 19b are disposed divergently relative to one another.

[0182] The main panel 12 includes four corner regions 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d, each defined at least in part by diagonally disposed fold line sections 13a, 17a, 13b, 19a, 15a, 17b, and 15b, 19b.

[0183] The blank 10 may include a handle structure H.

[0184] The handle structure H includes a handle or finger opening disposed on a longitudinal axis that bisects the main panel 12 .

[0185] A handle opening is provided between the group of four item retaining structures RT1, RT2. The group of four item retaining structures RT1, RT2 are provided on the inside of the main panel 12. The handle opening is located between the second row of intermediate item retaining structures RT2 and the third row of intermediate item retaining structures RT2. The handle opening is located in the center of the second group of four item retaining structures RT2.

[0186] The handle opening is at least partially between the first column of item retaining structures RT1, RT2 and the second column of item retaining structures RT1, RT2.

[0187] The handle opening is defined by a plurality of tabs 60, 62. The handle opening comprises four tabs 60, 62. Each tab 60, 62 is hinged to the main panel 12 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. Arcuate or curved cut lines may be provided between each fold line to define corners or apexes of the handle opening. The handle opening is substantially rhombus or diamond shaped, and in other embodiments may adopt other shapes such as, but not limited to, a square. The handle opening comprises a pair of large tabs 60 and a pair of small tabs 62.

[0188] The pair of large tabs 60 are separated from one another by a first cutting or separable line. The pair of small tabs 62 are separated from one another by a first cutting or separable line.

[0189] The pair of larger tabs 60 are separated from the pair of smaller tabs 62 by a second cut or separable line.

[0190] The first cutting line is collinear with an imaginary line passing laterally through the centres of the group of four intermediate article retaining structures RT2.

[0191] The first cut line may be linear in shape and may extend between a first pair of opposing vertices of the handle opening.

[0192] The second cut line may be non-linear in shape and may extend between a second pair of opposing apexes of the handle opening. The second cut line intersects the first cut line, the second cut line including a "V" or "U" shaped intermediate portion, the apex of the "V" or "U" shaped portion intersecting the first cut line.

[0193] One of the pair of large tabs 60 is hinged to the main panel 12 by a first fold line. The other of the pair of large tabs 60 is hinged to the main panel 12 by a second fold line. The first fold line is disposed divergently from the second fold line.

[0194] One of the pair of small tabs 62 is hinged to the main panel 12 by a third fold line. The other of the pair of small tabs 62 is hinged to the main panel 12 by a fourth fold line. The third fold line is disposed divergently from the fourth fold line.

[0195] The first fold line is disposed divergently with respect to the third fold line, and the second fold line is disposed divergently with respect to the fourth fold line.

[0196] Each of the pair of large tabs 60 may include a fold line extending therebetween. The fold line may be substantially parallel to the fold line hinge-connecting each of the pair of large tabs 60 to the main panel 12. The fold line may extend between a first cut or separable line and a second cut or separable line. The fold line extending across the pair of large tabs 60 may define a "V" shaped fold disposed opposite a "V" or "U" shaped intermediate portion of the second cut line.

[0197] The blank 10 may include one, two or more alignment or registration devices W1, W2. Each of the alignment devices W1, W2 takes the form of a notch or recess that defines an alignment edge of the blank 10 for receiving or engaging a reference pin (described in more detail below). The blank 10 includes a pair of first alignment devices W1, each defining a downstream or forward alignment edge. The blank 10 may also include a pair of alignment devices W2, each defining an upstream or rear alignment edge. Each of the notches or recesses that define the alignment devices W1, W2 are stamped out of one of the first and second side panels 18, 20.

[0198] The alignment devices W1, W2 are offset (inset) from the end edge of the main panel 12, which is defined by the fold lines 13, 13a, 13b, 15, 15a, 15b. Insetting the alignment devices W1, W2 is advantageous because the tool supporting the reference pins can be compact and does not extend in the upstream or downstream direction beyond the footprint of the group of articles. An imaginary line N1 passing through the alignment edge of the first alignment device W1 of the pair passes through the first pair of openings and / or openings A1 of the first article holding structure RT1. An imaginary line N2 passing through the alignment edge of the second alignment device W2 of the pair passes through the second pair of openings and / or openings A1 of the first article holding structure RT1.

[0199] The blank 10 may include at least one stabilizing device M. In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 10 includes two stabilizing devices M. The stabilizing devices take the form of apertures stamped out of the blank 10. A first stabilizing device M may be disposed between a first group of four article retaining structures RT1, RT2 located proximate a first or front end edge of the blank 10 and may be centrally disposed between said groups of article retaining structures RT1, RT2. A second stabilizing device M may be disposed between a second group of four article retaining structures RT1, RT2 located proximate a second or rear end edge of the blank 10 and may be centrally disposed between said groups of article retaining structures RT1, RT2. The stabilizing device M is configured to receive an abutment peg or dog (described in more detail below).

[0200] The opening in the stabilization device M may be non-circular in shape and may be substantially square or diamond shaped. The opening may be defined by at least one tab 94 stamped from and hinged to the main panel 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the opening is defined by a pair of tabs, each stamped from and hinged to the main panel 12 opposite one another. The pair of tabs 94 may be separated from one another by a cut or separable line 95.

[0201] In some embodiments, the stabilizing device M may be positioned to provide an additional handle opening. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the dimensions of the stabilizing device M are generally too small to accommodate a finger or a portion of a user's finger. This may be advantageous in that more substrate material is provided in the main panel 12 between the stabilizing device M and the openings in the article retaining structures RT1, RT2, thereby improving the robustness and integrity of the article carrier 90.

[0202] In other embodiments, the handle opening may be configured for use as a stabilizing device. Pegs or dogs may be provided for engaging the blank 10 through the handle opening to prevent or inhibit linear or rotational movement of the blank 10 relative to the dogs. The dogs may be attached to or integral with an applicator device, described in more detail below, for applying the blank 10 to a group of articles B.

[0203] The opening of the stabilization device, or the handle opening, may include at least one flat or straight portion for engaging a complementary flat or straight portion of the dog. In other embodiments, the stabilization device or the handle opening may include at least one generally "V" or "U" shaped portion for engaging a complementary portion of the dog.

[0204] The blank 10 is assembled around the group of articles B. The main panel 12 of the blank 10 is applied to the group of articles B. The main panel 12 is lowered against the articles B. Each of the retaining structures RT1, RT2 receives one of the articles B.

[0205] The blank 10 is folded about fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 around the sides and ends of the group of articles to place the side and end panels in facing relationship therewith.

[0206] Tabs 42, 44 are folded around the side walls of their respective article B. Tabs 42, 44 remain substantially flush with the side or end panels 14, 16, 18, 20 from which they extend. The inner surfaces of tabs 43, 44 abut the side walls, rims or chimes of article B.

[0207] FIG. 2 shows the carrier 90 assembled, with the tabs 42, 44 abutting the side walls of the article B urging the side and end panels 14, 16, 18, 20 into the folded condition.

[0208] Corner regions 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d of main panel 12 adopt a non-coplanar arrangement with main panel 12. Corner regions 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d slope upward as they extend outwardly due to the convergence of fold line pairs 13a / 17a, 13b / 19a, 15a / 17b, 15b / 19b. This may be beneficial to impart additional strength or rigidity to carrier 90 and reduce the likelihood that carrier 90 will deform when wrapped in a sheet or film of material, such as, but not limited to, heat or shrink wrap.

[0209] In the assembled carrier 90, each of the curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 joins or joins with a curved hinge connection between an adjacent group of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c, and 50a, 50b, 50c, and the main panel 12. The curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 and the curved hinge connections may define or form a crease or fold that converges in the substrate forming the carrier 90. In other embodiments, each of the curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 may be joined or joined to an adjacent curved hinge connection by a third crease or fold. The curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 and the curved hinge connections meet or join at a location disposed proximate to the article B.

[0210] In some embodiments, the curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 have the effect of encouraging the side and / or end walls 14, 16, 18, 20 in the area between a pair of adjacent articles B to curve outward, i.e., to become convex when viewed from an external perspective.

[0211] In some embodiments, the curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 have the effect of encouraging the main panel 12 to bow downwardly, i.e., to become concave when viewed from an exterior perspective above the main panel 112, in the region between a pair of adjacent articles B. In such embodiments, the side and / or end walls 14, 16, 18, 20 may be substantially planar.

[0212] Referring now to Figures 3 and 4, an alternative blank for use in the packaging system of the present disclosure is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the prefix "100" has been added to indicate that these features belong to the second embodiment, but like numerals have been used to indicate like parts where possible. The alternative embodiment shares many common features with the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2, and therefore only the differences from the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2 will be described in detail.

[0213] FIG. 3 shows a blank 110 comprising a number of panels 112, 114A, 114B, 116A, 116B, 118, 120, including a main panel 112 for forming the top wall or mating panel of a carrier 190 (see FIG. 4).

[0214] The main panel 112 includes at least one item retaining structure RT1, RT2. The main panel 112 includes a plurality of item retaining structures RT1, RT2, specifically eight item retaining structures RT1, RT2 arranged in a 2 x 4 matrix or array. Each of the item retaining structures RT1, RT2 includes an opening or opening A1, A2.

[0215] Item retention structures RT1, RT2 of FIG. 3 are substantially similar to those of FIG. 1, except that tabs 142, 144, 154 have a smaller height dimension relative to tine 140 than tabs 42, 44, 54 of FIG.

[0216] A first side panel 118 is hingedly connected to a first side of the main panel 112 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 117 .

[0217] A second side panel 120 is hingedly connected to a second side of the main panel 112 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 119 .

[0218] The blank 110 comprises a first end structure comprising a first upper end panel 114A hingedly connected to a first end of the main panel 112 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 113A. A first lower end panel 114B is hingedly connected to the first upper end panel 114A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 113B.

[0219] The first end structure comprises a first corner panel 160A hinged to a first end of the first side panel 118 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 161 A. A second corner panel 160B is hinged to a first end of the second side panel 120 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 161 B.

[0220] The first end structure comprises a first fixed panel 164A hingedly connected to the first corner panel 160A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 163 A. A second fixed panel 164B is hingedly connected to the second corner panel 160B by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 163B.

[0221] The first web panel 168A is hingedly connected at one end to the first fixed panel 164A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 169A and at a second end to the first top end panel 114A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 171A.

[0222] The second web panel 168B is hinged at one end to the second fixed panel 164B by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 169B and at a second end to the first top end panel 114A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 171B.

[0223] The blank 110 includes a second end structure including a second upper end panel 116A hingedly connected to a second end of the main panel 112 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 115A. A second lower end panel 116B is hingedly connected to the second upper end panel 116A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 115B.

[0224] The second end structure includes a third corner panel 162A hinged to the second end of the first side panel 118 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 165A. A fourth corner panel 162B is hinged to the second end of the second side panel 120 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 165B.

[0225] The first end structure includes a third fixed panel 166A hingedly connected to the third corner panel 162A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 167 A. A fourth fixed panel 166B is hingedly connected to the fourth corner panel 162B by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 167B.

[0226] The third web panel 170A is hinged at one end to the third fixed panel 166A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 173A and at a second end to the second top end panel 116A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 175A.

[0227] The fourth web panel 170B is hinged at one end to the fourth fixed panel 166B by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 173B and at a second end to the second top end panel 116A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 175B.

[0228] It will be appreciated that the first side panel 118, the first corner panel 160A, the first fastening panel 164A, the third corner panel 162A, and the third fastening panel 166A form a first strap 164A / 160A / 118 / 162A / 166A along a first side of the main panel 112. The second side panel 120, the second corner panel 160B, the second fastening panel 164B, the fourth corner panel 162B, and the fourth fastening panel 166B form a second strap 164B / 160B / 120 / 162B / 166B along a second side of the main panel 112.

[0229] The blank 110 includes a first flap 172 hingedly connected to the first bottom end panel 114B by a hinge connection. The hinge connection is defined, at least in part, by a cut line V1. The cut line V1 defines a tab P1 extending from an outer or bottom edge of the first bottom end panel 114B. The cut line V1 forms a receiver in the form of an opening, slot or slit for receiving a locking tab or detent C1. Each of the first and second fastening panels 164A, 164B includes a locking tab or detent C1 extending from its bottom edge.

[0230] The first flap 172 may include a pair of wing portions 174A, 174B hinged to a central portion of the first flap 172 by respective fold lines 177A, 177B. The fold lines 177A, 177B may be disposed divergently relative to one another, with the fold lines 177A, 177B diverging toward the first bottom end panel 114B.

[0231] Each of the first and second fastening panels 164A, 164B includes a cut-out in the form of an opening A5. Each opening A5 forms a second receiving portion for receiving a respective second locking tab or detent C2. The first top end panel 114A includes a pair of cut lines 101, each substantially "U" shaped, each cut line 101 defining a respective detent C2.

[0232] The blank 110 includes a second flap 176 hingedly connected to the second bottom end panel 116B by a hinge connection. The hinge connection is defined at least in part by a cut line V2. The cut line V2 defines a second tab P2 extending from an exterior or bottom edge of the second bottom end panel 116B. The cut line V2 forms a receiver in the form of an opening, slot or slit for receiving a locking tab or detent C2. Each of the third and fourth fastening panels 166A, 166B includes a locking tab or detent C2 extending from a bottom edge.

[0233] The second flap 176 may include a pair of wing portions 178A, 178B hinged to a central portion of the second flap 176 by respective fold lines 178A, 178B. The fold lines 179A, 179B may be disposed divergently relative to one another, with the fold lines 179A, 179B diverging toward the second bottom end panel 116B.

[0234] The third and fourth fastening panels 166A, 166B each include a cut-out in the form of an opening A5. Each opening A5 forms a second receiving portion for receiving a respective second locking tab or detent C2. The second top end panel 116A includes a pair of cut lines 101, each substantially "U" shaped, each cut line 101 defining a respective detent C2.

[0235] The end structure is folded to secure the first and second side panels 118, 120 around the sides of the group of articles B. The blank 110 may be applied to the group of articles B in a flat form and folded therearound.

[0236] The main panel 112 is lowered relative to the group of articles B. The first and second side panels 118, 120 are folded around opposite sides of the group of articles B. The corner panels 160A, 160B, 162A, 162B are folded around the corners of the group of articles B, and the fixed panels 164A, 164B, 166A, 166B are folded around the ends of the group of articles B.

[0237] The first and second top end panels 114A, 116A are folded downwardly around the respective ends of the group of articles B. The first and second bottom end panels 114B, 116B are folded upwardly relative to the first and second top end panels 114A, 116A so that detents C2 may be inserted into opening A5. The first and second bottom end panels 114B, 116B are folded downwardly back into a substantially coplanar relationship with the respective first and second top end panels 114A, 116A to which they are hinged.

[0238] As shown in FIG. 8, the first and second flaps 172, 176 are folded inwardly and the wing portions 174A, 174B, 176A, 176B are folded relative to the central portion to pass through the sidewall of the adjacently positioned item B.

[0239] The blank 110 may include at least one or at least two alignment or registration devices W1, W2. Each of the alignment devices W1, W2 takes the form of a notch or recess that defines an alignment edge of the blank 110 for receiving or engaging a reference pin (described in more detail below). The blank 110 includes a pair of first alignment devices W1, each defining a downstream or forward alignment edge. The blank 110 may also include a pair of alignment devices W2, each defining an upstream or rear alignment edge. Each of the notches or recesses that define the alignment devices W1, W2 are stamped out of one of the first and second side panels 118, 120.

[0240] The blank 110 may include at least one stabilizing device M. In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 110 includes two stabilizing devices M. The stabilizing devices take the form of openings stamped out of the blank 110. The first stabilizing device M is disposed between a first group of four article retaining structures RT1, RT2 located proximate a first or front end edge of the blank 110 and may be centrally located between said groups of article retaining structures RT1, RT2. The second stabilizing device M is disposed between a second group of four article retaining structures RT1, RT2 located proximate a second or rear end edge of the blank 110 and may be centrally located between said groups of article retaining structures RT1, RT2. The stabilizing device M is configured to receive an abutment peg or dog (described in more detail below).

[0241] The opening in the stabilization device M may be non-circular in shape and may be substantially square or diamond shaped. The opening may be defined by at least one tab 194 stamped from and hinged to the main panel 112. In the illustrated embodiment, the opening is defined by a pair of tabs, each stamped from and hinged to the main panel 112 opposite one another. The pair of tabs 194 may be separated from one another by a cut or separable line 195.

[0242] In some embodiments, the stabilizing device M may be positioned to provide an additional handle opening. In the embodiment of FIG. 3, the dimensions of the stabilizing device M are generally too small to accommodate a finger or a portion of a user's finger. This may be advantageous in that more substrate material is provided in the main panel 112 between the stabilizing device M and the article retaining structures RT1, RT2, thereby improving the robustness and integrity of the article carrier 190.

[0243] 5A, 5B, and 6, an alternative blank for use in the packaging system of the present disclosure is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, the prefix "300" has been added to indicate that these features belong to the third embodiment, but like numerals have been used to indicate like parts where possible. The alternative embodiment shares many common features with the embodiment of Figures 1-4, and therefore only the differences from the embodiment shown in Figures 1-4 will be described in detail.

[0244] Referring to FIG. 5A, there is shown a blank 310 that includes a number of panels 312, 314, 316, 318, 320, including a main panel 312 for forming the lower wall or mating panel of a carrier 390 (see FIG. 6).

[0245] A first side panel 314 is hingedly connected to a first side of the main panel 312 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 313. A first top or cover panel 318 is hingedly connected to the first side panel 314 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 317.

[0246] A second side panel 316 is hingedly connected to a second side of the main panel 312 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 315. A second top or cover panel 320 is hingedly connected to the second side panel 316 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 319.

[0247] The main panel 312 of the blank 310 includes at least one item retaining structure RT1, RT2. The main panel 312 includes a plurality of item retaining structures RT1, RT2, specifically eight item retaining structures RT1, RT2 arranged in a 2×4 matrix or array. Each of the item retaining structures RT1, RT2 includes an opening or opening A1, A2. The item retaining structures RT1, RT2 are substantially similar to those shown in Figures 3 and 4 and will not be described in further detail.

[0248] The main panel 312 includes a handle structure. The handle structure may include at least one handle opening A3. In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 310 includes three handle openings A2. Each handle opening A3 is defined within or stamped from an area of ​​the main panel 312 centrally located between four openings A1, A2 arranged as two adjacent pairs of openings A1, A2.

[0249] The first and second top panels 318, 320 are configured to be disposed in at least partial overlapping relationship with one another. The overlapping portions of the first and second top panels 318, 320 are provided with a locking structure for locking the first and second top panels 318, 320 together. The locking structure cooperates with a handle opening in the main panel 312 to secure the first and second top panels 318, 320 to the main panel 312.

[0250] The locking structure comprises at least one receiver RC in the form of an opening in the first top panel 318. The first top panel 318 comprises a plurality of openings, more specifically, three openings, although in other embodiments one, two, or more than two openings may be provided. Each of the openings is positioned for vertical alignment or alignment with a handle opening A3 provided in the main panel 312. The openings may be defined by at least one tab 392, 394, 396 (also referred to herein as a female tab or receiver tab). In the illustrated embodiment, the openings are defined by three tabs 392, 394, 396. The openings may be substantially square or diamond shaped, and in the illustrated embodiment, the corners of the openings are rounded or filleted. The first tab 396 is hinged to the first top panel 318 by a first hinge connection in the form of a first fold line 391. The second tab 392 is hinged to the first top panel 318 by a second hinge connection in the form of a second fold line 393. The second tab 392 is hinged to the first top panel 318 opposite the first tab 396. The first tab 396 is partially separated from the second tab 392 by a first separation or cut line 397 and partially separated by a third tab 394. The third tab 394 is defined by a second separation or cut line 399. The second cut line 399 is substantially "U" shaped. The third tab 394 is hinged to the first top panel 318 by a third hinge connection in the form of a third fold line 395. The third hinge connection may be disposed adjacent to and substantially perpendicular to the first and / or second hinge connections. The third tab 394 defines a notch or recess in each of the first and second tabs 396, 392. The notch or recess is stamped from the free end edge opposite the first and second hinge connections, respectively.

[0251] The locking structure includes at least one locking element L for being received in the receptacle RC. The locking element L includes a tab 380 stamped from the second top panel 320, and the illustrated embodiment includes three tabs 380, each positioned to be engageable with one of the receptacle openings and a respective one of the handle openings A2. Each tab 380 is hinged to the second top panel 320 by a hinge connection 381. Each tab 380 may include at least one fold line. In the illustrated embodiment, the tab 380 includes a pair of fold lines. The pair of fold lines are positioned divergently relative to each other. Each of the pair of fold lines may be, for example, but not limited to, non-linear, and may be arcuate or curved.

[0252] The non-linear fold lines may encourage the tab 380 to return to a planar configuration to enhance security of the tab 380 within the receiver and handle opening A3.

[0253] Tab 380 may be substantially "arrowhead" shaped to define a pair of opposing shoulders or detents for securely engaging handle opening A3 and / or receiver RC.

[0254] The first top panel 318, the second top panel 320, the first and second side panels 314, 316, and the main panel 312 form a tubular structure. Each end of the tubular structure is closed by an end closure structure. The first end closure structure comprises a first end panel 324 hingedly connected to a first end of the main panel 312 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 325. A first top end flap 326 is hingedly connected to the first end panel 324 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 327.

[0255] The first anchor flap 322A is hinged to a first end of the first top panel 318 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 323A. The first anchor flap 322A is hinged to the first top end flap 326 by a pair of hinged panels 328A, 330A. The pair of hinged panels 328A, 330A form a gusset. The first connection panel 328A is hinged to the first anchor flap 322A by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The second connection panel 330A is hinged to the first connection panel 328A by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The second connection panel 330A is hinged to the first top end flap 326 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line.

[0256] The second anchor flap 322B is hinged to the first end of the second top panel 320 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 323B. The second anchor flap 322B is hinged to the first top end flap 326 by a pair of hinged panels 328B, 330B forming a second gusset. The third connecting panel 328B is hinged to the second anchor flap 322B by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The fourth connecting panel 330B is hinged to the third connecting panel 328B by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The fourth connecting panel 330B is hinged to the first top end flap 326 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line.

[0257] The first end panel 324 is separated from each of the first and second anchor flaps 322A, 322B by an opening A10. The opening A10 separates each of a pair of hinged panels 328A / 330A and 328B / 330B from the first and second side panels 314, 316, respectively.

[0258] The second end closure structure includes a second end panel 334 hingedly connected to the second end of the main panel 312 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 335. A second top end flap 336 is hingedly connected to the second end panel 334 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 337.

[0259] The third anchor flap 332A is hinged to the second end of the first top panel 318 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 333A. The third anchor flap 332A is hinged to the second top end flap 336 by a pair of hinged panels 338A, 340A forming a third gusset. The fifth connection panel 338A is hinged to the third anchor flap 332A by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The sixth connection panel 340A is hinged to the fifth connection panel 338A by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The sixth connection panel 340A is hinged to the second top end flap 336 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line.

[0260] The fourth anchor flap 332B is hinged to the second end of the second top panel 320 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 333B. The fourth anchor flap 332B is hinged to the second top end flap 336 by a pair of hinged panels 338B, 340B forming a fourth gusset. The seventh connection panel 338B is hinged to the fourth anchor flap 332B by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 339B (see FIG. 5B). The eighth connection panel 340B is hinged to the seventh connection panel 338B by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 355B. The eighth connection panel 340B is hinged to the second top end flap 336 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 359B.

[0261] The second end panel 334 is separated from each of the third and fourth anchor flaps 332A, 332B by an opening A10. The opening A10 separates each of the pair of hinged panels 338A / 340A, 338B / 340B from the first and second side panels 314, 316, respectively.

[0262] The blank 310 may include at least two alignment or registration devices W1, W2. Each of the alignment devices W1, W2 takes the form of a notch or recess that defines an alignment edge of the blank 310 for receiving or engaging a reference pin (described in more detail below). The blank 310 includes a pair of first alignment devices W1, each defining a downstream or forward alignment edge. The blank 310 may also include a second pair of alignment devices W2, each defining an upstream or rear alignment edge. Each of the notches or recesses that define the alignment devices W1, W2 are stamped from or defined in one of the first and second top panels 318, 320.

[0263] The blank 310 may include at least one stabilizing device. In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 110 includes three stabilizing devices. Each stabilizing device includes an opening in at least one of the first top panel 318, the second top panel 320, and the main panel 312. Each stabilizing device may include an opening in at least two, or all, of the first top panel 318, the second top panel 320, and the main panel 312. Each stabilizing device is configured to receive an abutment peg or dog (described in more detail below).

[0264] The opening forming at least a portion of the stabilization device may be non-circular in shape and may be substantially square or diamond shaped. One or more openings in the panel that accommodate the stabilization device may be defined by at least one tab stamped from the panel that is formed and hinged thereto.

[0265] In the illustrated embodiment, the opening is defined in part by a pair of tabs 370, 372, each stamped from and hingedly connected to the first top panel 318 opposite one another. The pair of tabs 370, 372 may be separated from one another by a cut or separable line 377.

[0266] The first stabilizing device is configured to be positioned in vertical alignment with a gap or space between a first group of four articles packaged within the carrier 390. The second stabilizing device is configured to be positioned in vertical alignment with a gap or space between a second group of four articles. The third stabilizing device is configured to be positioned in vertical alignment with a gap or space between a third group of four articles.

[0267] Turning to the construction of a carrier 390 from a blank 310, the blank 310 may be formed into an assembled carrier 390, as shown in FIG.

[0268] The blank 310 is applied to the group of articles B. The blank 310 is lowered relative to the group of articles B. Each of the article retaining structures RT1, RT2 of the blank 310 is aligned with a respective article B in the group. A portion of the article B passes through the main panel 312. The toothed areas of the main panel 312 around each of the article retaining structures RT1, RT2 may be folded out of the plane of the main panel 312.

[0269] Each toothed region of the main panel 312 may be folded around one of the articles B received in a respective one of the article retaining structures RT1, RT2. The main panel 312 may be deformed around the article B, such as, but not limited to, around a shoulder portion of the article B, which may be a can in which a mold portion may be achieved by a neck-in process.

[0270] The blank 310 may be partially folded about fold lines 313 , 315 to bring the first and second side panels 314 , 316 into a non-coplanar relationship with the main panel 312 .

[0271] The blank 310 is folded about fold lines 323A, 323B, 333A, 333B to fold the first, second, third and fourth anchor flaps 322A, 322B, 332A, 332B into a substantially facing relationship with the first or second side panels 314, 316 to which they are hinged.

[0272] The blank 310 is folded about fold lines 325, 335 to fold the first and second end panels 324, 334 into at least a substantially perpendicular relationship with the main panel 312. In some embodiments, the first and second end panels 324, 334 may be folded at an angle of greater than 90° so as to be oblique.

[0273] The blank 310 is folded about fold lines 327, 337 to fold the first and second top end flaps 326, 336 relative to the hinged first and second end panels 324, 334, respectively.

[0274] The first and second top end flaps 326 , 336 may be folded over the top ends of one or more articles B disposed adjacent the first and second ends of the main panel 312 .

[0275] The first and second top end flaps 326 , 336 may be folded substantially parallel to the main panel 312 .

[0276] The first and second end panels 324, 334 and the first and second top end flaps 326, 336 may automatically fold in response to folding the first, second, third, and fourth anchor flaps 322A, 322B, 332A, 332B into a substantially face-contacting relationship with the first and second side panels 314, 316, respectively.

[0277] The blank 310 is folded about fold lines 313 , 315 to place the first and second side panels 314 , 316 in a substantially perpendicular relationship with the main panel 312 .

[0278] Blank 310 is folded about fold line 317 to fold a first top panel 318 over the top of article B. Blank 310 is folded about fold line 319 to fold a second top panel 320 over the top of article B into overlapping relationship with first top panel 318 to form composite top panel 318 / 320.

[0279] The locking tab 380 is displaced downwardly out of the plane of the second top panel 320 to pass through each of the receiver openings. As a result, the receiver tabs 392, 394, 396 are displaced out of the plane of the first top panel 318.

[0280] The locking tab 380 engages the first and second receiver tabs 396, 392. A shoulder of the locking tab 380 may engage an edge of each of the first and second receiver tabs 396, 392 as well as around the periphery of the respective handle opening A3. The shoulder of the locking tab 380 engages an edge of each of the first and second receiver tabs 396, 392, which is defined by a notch or recess in the free edge opposite the hinge connections 391, 393 to the first top panel 318.

[0281] The recessed edges of the first and second receiver tabs 396, 392 prevent or inhibit the locking tab 380 from disengaging from the first and second receiver tabs 396, 392 in a locked state.

[0282] The locking tab 380 and the receiver tabs 396, 392 also act as spacers between the composite top panel 318 / 320 and the main panel 312. The locking tab 380 may engage the main panel 312 around the handle opening A3 and / or along the lower surface of the main panel 312, thereby acting as a tension member to maintain the spacing between the main panel 312 and the composite top panel 318 / 320 to prevent an increase in the spacing. Additionally, the receiver tabs 396, 392 and / or the locking tab 380 may engage or abut the inner or upper surface of the main panel 312, thereby supporting and maintaining the spacing between the composite top panel 318 / 320 and the main panel 312 to help prevent a decrease in the spacing. Thus, at least a portion of the locking tab 380 and / or at least a portion of one or more of the receiver tabs 396, 392 may be disposed between the first top panel 318 and the main panel 312 to maintain the spacing therebetween.

[0283] The locking tabs 380 may also be cushion tabs that provide increased comfort when the package 390 is carried by inserting one or more fingers into the openings in the composite top panels 318 / 320 and main panel 312.

[0284] When folded, the first and second receiver tabs 396, 392 may extend through the handle opening A3.

[0285] The locking tabs 380 may also engage the main panel 312 and pass through each of the handle openings A3. A shoulder of the locking tabs 380 may engage the underside of the main panel 312, which is a second side of the main panel 312 opposite the first side in which the locking tabs 380 are received.

[0286] The third tab 394 may provide a biasing mechanism. The third tab 394 has a natural or inherent tendency to return to an unfolded state. This may provide or complement a resilient bias of the locking tab 380 to return to the deployed state. The third tab 394 biases the locking tab 380 toward an end stop defined by the recessed edges of the first and second receiver tabs 396, 392. The end stop blocks or prevents the locking tab 380 from returning to the deployed state.

[0287] 7 to 12 show an embodiment of a packaging device 400, 500, 600 forming part of a packaging machine for assembling the blanks 10, 110, 310 of FIGS.

[0288] Figures 7-10 show views of a packaging machine 400 adapted to assemble the blank 110 of Figure 3. Figure 11 shows a view of a packaging machine 500 adapted to assemble the blank 310 of Figure 5. Figure 12 shows a view of a packaging machine 600 adapted to assemble the blank 10 of Figure 1.

[0289] Returning to FIG. 7, there is shown a packaging machine 400 comprising a grouping and weighing device and an applicator 420 for applying blanks 110 to a group of weighed articles (not shown in FIG. 7, FIG. 8 shows article B and FIG. 9 shows the position of article B in phantom).

[0290] The weighing apparatus comprises a first plurality of article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 for engaging, weighing and driving a first column of articles B through the packaging apparatus 400. The weighing apparatus comprises a second plurality of article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 for engaging, weighing and driving a second column of articles B through the packaging apparatus 400. The second plurality of article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 are positioned opposite the first plurality of article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434.

[0291] Each of the article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 is coupled to or comprises a drive mechanism for propelling each of the first and second pluralities of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 about a respective track or loop.

[0292] Each of the article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 is coupled to or attached to a respective track or loop (not shown) of any track having a working range and a return range. The article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 may include magnets (not shown) for holding the article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 on the track. The track includes a drive mechanism for driving the article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 around the track. The drive mechanism may take the form of a linear motor. A stator including a coil is attached to the track and generates a motive force by acting on the magnets to drive the article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 around the track. Each of the article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 may be independently or individually controlled, thus varying the pitch between the article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 and accelerating or decelerating the article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 individually.

[0293] Each article engagement tool 432A, 432B, 434 in the first plurality of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 is driven synchronously with a respective one of the article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 in the second plurality of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434, at least throughout the working range of the packaging machine 400, 500, 600.

[0294] The packaging apparatus 400 can merge a first stream of articles B with a second stream of articles B, where the first plurality of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 engages articles from the first stream and the second plurality of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 engages articles from the second stream.

[0295] Each article engagement tool 432A, 432B, 434 includes a carriage 448 having at least one wheel or follower 446, and in some embodiments, two, three, four or more wheels or followers 446 may be provided on each carriage 448 and engage with the track.

[0296] Each carriage 448 includes a head 442 removably attached by a locking mechanism 444. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 444 may take the form of a bayonet-style fitting or mount. In this manner, the head 442 may be easily separated from the carriage 448 and replaced, swapped, or replaced. This allows the head 442 to be changed for a different head to accommodate different carton blanks 10, 110, 310 or articles B, or to allow replacement of a damaged or broken head.

[0297] Each of the heads 442 includes a gripper or scoop 443 with at least one engagement surface for engaging an item B. The gripper 443 includes a pair of fingers or legs defining a recess or channel positioned to receive a portion of the item B.

[0298] Each of the heads 442 may include an upwardly extending reference pin or post 440. The reference pin 440 is attached to the head 442 at a first proximal end and extends upward to a distal free end. The distal free end is disposed at a height above the top end of the article B. In this manner, the reference pin 440 is configured to engage the blank 110 when disposed at the top end of the article B in a group of articles B. The heads 442 forming the front and rear article engagement tools 432A, 432B may include a first reference pin or post 440. The heads 442 forming the middle article engagement tool 434 may include an optional second reference pin or post 440'. The second reference pin or post 440' may be offset relative to the first reference pin 440 provided by the front and rear article engagement tools 432A, 432B, as preferably shown in FIG. 8.

[0299] The datum pin 440 is positioned to be located between a forward portion of the head 442 and a rearward portion of the head 442. The datum pin 440 is located upstream of a downstream end, edge or wall of the article B that is engaged by the attached head 442, and the datum pin 440 is located downstream of an upstream end, edge or wall of the article B that is engaged by said head 442.

[0300] The datum pin 440 may be located within the footprint of the carriage 448 and / or head 442. In this manner, two adjacent carriages 448 or heads 442 may be brought into close proximity without interference from the datum pin 440 or its attachment. This allows the two or more article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 to bring two or more articles B into close proximity or to engage two or more articles B that are placed in close proximity.

[0301] To form a group of weighed articles B, the pair of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 combines a pair of articles B, one from each of the first and second columns of articles B or one from the stream of articles B.

[0302] Two or more pairs of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 can be employed to form a group of articles B, and in the illustrated embodiment, four pairs of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 form eight groups of articles B in a 2 x 4 matrix or array.

[0303] To form a group, the front pair of article engaging tools 432B may be delayed to allow the middle pair of article engaging tools 434 and the rear pair of article engaging tools 432A to catch up with the downstream disposed pair of article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434. As each upstream pair of article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 catches up with the adjacent downstream pair of article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434, they may also be delayed to match the speed of said downstream pair. It will be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the speed of the upstream pair of article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 may be increased or accelerated in order to catch up with the adjacent downstream pair of article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434.

[0304] As the article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 form the group of articles B, the blank 110 is lowered onto the top ends of the articles B that form the group.

[0305] The blank 110 is lowered or fed from above by an overhead conveyor (not shown) and moved downstream together with the article B, with the forward alignment edges provided by the pair of first alignment devices W1 contacting the respective reference pins 440 of the forward pair of article engagement tools 432B.

[0306] When the rear pair of article engagement tools 432A completes the formation of the group of articles B, the reference pins 440 of each of the rear pair of article engagement tools 432A contact the rear alignment edges provided by the pair of second alignment devices W2. The blank 110 is trapped between the reference pins 440 of the front and rear article engagement tools 432B, 432A. The reference pins 440 ensure that the blank 110 is precisely aligned with respect to the group of articles B and maintain this alignment as the blank 110 and articles B move downstream through the packaging apparatus.

[0307] It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, only one of the rear pair of article engagement tools 432A and one of the front pair of article engagement tools 432B may be provided with a reference pin 440, said reference pin 440 being positioned at diagonally opposite corners of the rear pair of article engagement tools 432A and the front pair of article engagement tools 432B.

[0308] An intermediate pair of reference pins 440' (if provided) of the article engagement tool 434 may contact or engage side edges S1, S2 of the blank 110 to further support alignment of the blank 110 relative to the group of articles B.

[0309] The datum pins 440, 440' respectively engage the panels 118, 120 that are hinged to the main or engaging panel 112. The panels 118, 120 are folded around a side or edge of the article grouping such that the panels 118, 120, and particularly the alignment edges, disengage from the datum pins 440, 440'.

[0310] The packaging machine 400 includes an applicator 420 for effecting the folding of the panels 118 , 120 relative to the main or mating panel 112 .

[0311] Applicator 420 comprises a flat plate 421, the lower or engagement surface of which comprises a plurality of recesses or orifices each adapted to receive an upper portion of an article B. The embodiment shown comprises eight orifices arranged in a 2 by 4 matrix or array.

[0312] The plate 421 includes one or more folding dies or brakes 452A, 452B depending from a lower or engaging surface of the plate 421. The folding dies or brakes 452A, 452B effect the folding of the side panels 118, 120 relative to the main or engaging panel 112.

[0313] The plate 421 includes one or more retaining or stabilizing pins or lugs 450 depending from the bottom or engagement surface of the plate 421. The illustrated embodiment includes three stabilizing pins 450, best shown in FIG.

[0314] The stabilizing pin 450 is longer than the folding dies 452A, 452B so as to extend thereunder. The stabilizing pin 450 is the first portion of the applicator 420 that engages the blank 110. The stabilizing pin 450, also referred to herein as an abutment peg, is received by a respective stabilizing device M. The stabilizing pin 450 is inserted into an opening in the stabilizing device M and the tab 94, if present, is folded out of the plane of the main panel 112 when the stabilizing pin 450 is received. The stabilizing pin 450 prevents or blocks movement of the blank 110 relative to the applicator 420 and holds the blank 110 in precise alignment with the article B as the side panels 18, 120 are folded around the sides of the article group.

[0315] The applicator 420 is lowered against article B to press the blank 110 over the top edge of article B. The applicator 420 contacts the blank 110, the stabilizing pin 450 is received by the stabilizing device M, the side panels 118, 120 are folded downward, and the applicator 420 is lowered further, pressing the blank 110 downward so that article B is received in each of the article retaining structures RT1, RT2. The tabs 140, 142, 144, 154 are folded out of the plane of the engagement panel 112 to engage under flanges or other suitable protrusions on article B.

[0316] 11 shows a diagram of a packaging apparatus 500 adapted to assemble the blank 310 of FIG. 5. The packaging apparatus 500 includes a head 542 adapted to receive the blank 310. In particular, the head 542 includes a reference pin 540 that is disposed further from an engagement surface 543 of the head 542 than that of the head 442 of the embodiment of FIGS. 7 to 10. In the illustrated embodiment, a locking mechanism 544 is disposed between the engagement surface 543 of the head 542 and the reference pin 540. In the embodiment of FIGS. 7 to 10, the reference pin 440 is disposed between the locking mechanism 444 and the engagement surface 443 of the head 442.

[0317] Head 542 of Figure 11 and head 442 of Figures 7 to 10 may be interchangeable, i.e., the head may be selected depending on the blank being packaged. Carriage 448 and carriage 548 may be substantially similar so that either head 542 or head 442 may be mounted thereon.

[0318] 12, there is shown a diagram of a packaging machine 600 adapted to assemble the blank 10 of FIG.

[0319] The applicator 620 includes a pair of first stabilizing pegs or pins 650 adapted to be received in openings in the stabilizing device M.

[0320] The applicator 620 includes an optional second stabilizing peg or pin 654 adapted to be received in a handle opening of the handle structure H. The second stabilizing peg 654 is shaped and dimensioned to fit into the handle opening and may be wider or of a larger diameter than the first stabilizing peg 650.

[0321] In some embodiments, the pair of first stabilizing pegs or pins 650 may be omitted and only the second stabilizing peg or pin 654 may be provided, and the second stabilizing peg or pin 654 may be shaped to prevent or inhibit rotation of the blank relative to the applicator 620 when the second stabilizing peg or pin 654 is received in a stabilizing device provided with the blank 10.

[0322] The applicator 620 includes one or more first folding dies or brakes depending from the lower or engaging surface of the plate. The folding dies or brakes effect the folding of the side panels 18, 20 relative to the main or engaging panel 12.

[0323] The applicator 620 includes one or more secondary folding dies or brakes 652C, 652C depending from the lower or engaging surface of the plate. The folding dies or brakes effect the folding of the end panels 14, 16 relative to the main or engaging panel 12.

[0324] The applicator 620 is mounted on an overhead wheel adapted to maintain the orientation of the applicator 620 relative to a conveyor (not shown). The applicator 620 is maintained substantially parallel to the conveyor such that the engagement surface of the plate faces towards the article B and / or conveyor throughout the rotation of the overhead wheel.

[0325] 13-19, there are shown alternative embodiments of the packaging systems, article carriers and blanks, devices and applicators of the present disclosure. The alternative embodiments share many common features with the embodiments of Figures 1-12, and therefore only the differences from the embodiments shown in Figures 1-12 will be described in detail.

[0326] Referring to FIG. 13, there is shown a plan view of a pair of connected blanks 401, each of which may form a carton or carrier 490, as shown in FIG. 17, for containing and transporting a group of primary products, such as, but not limited to, bottles or cans, referred to as Item B, as shown in FIG.

[0327] In the illustrated embodiment, the blanks 410A, 410B are configured to form a carton or carrier 490 that packages an exemplary arrangement of exemplary items B. In the embodiment shown in Figure 13, each blank 410A, 410B is configured to package the items in a 2x2 matrix or array arrangement, with two rows of two items B, where items B are beverage cans.

[0328] Alternatively, the blanks 410A, 410B may be configured to form carriers for packaging other types, numbers and sizes of items and / or for packaging items in different arrangements or configurations.

[0329] 13, there is shown a pair of connected blanks 401 comprising a first blank 410A and a second blank 410B. The second blank 410B is separably or frangibly connected to the first blank 410A by a frangible connection 413. Each of the blanks 410A, 410B comprises a main or engagement panel 412 for forming a top wall or engagement panel of the carrier 490.

[0330] The frangible connections 413 may take the form of a plurality of cut lines spaced apart to define connecting nicks or bridge portions N1, N2, N3, N4 therebetween. The bridge portions N1, N2, N3, N4 join the first blank 410A and the second blank 410B. In the illustrated embodiment, the frangible connections 413 comprise four connecting nicks or bridge portions N1, N2, N3, N4 arranged in pairs N1 / N2, N3 / N4. The first pair of connecting nicks N1 / N2 is disposed between a first item retaining structure RT in the first blank 410A and a second item retaining structure RT in the second blank 410B. The second item retaining structures RT are disposed adjacent to the first item retaining structure RT and each lie on an imaginary longitudinal line or axis xx, the longitudinal line or axis xx passing through a center of each of the first and second item retaining structures RT. The first pair of connection nicks N1 / N2 are disposed on either side of a longitudinal line xx. The longitudinal line xx may define or pass through the closest area between the article B received in the first blank 410A and the article B received in the second blank 410B. The frangible connection 413 comprises a second pair of connection nicks N3 / N4 disposed between the third article retaining structure RT in the first blank 410A and the fourth article retaining structure RT in the second blank 410B. The second pair of connection nicks N3 / N4 are disposed on either side of an imaginary line (not shown) that extends in the longitudinal direction of the pair of connected blanks 401 and passes through the center of each of the third and fourth article retaining structures RT.

[0331] The main panels 412 include at least one item retaining structure RT. In the illustrated embodiment, the main panels 412 each include a plurality of item retaining structures RT, specifically four item retaining structures RT, arranged in a 2×2 matrix or array. Each of the main panels 412 includes two columns of item retaining structures RT, each column including two item retaining structures RT. Each of the item retaining structures RT includes an opening A1.

[0332] Each of the item holding structures RT is substantially similar in configuration and therefore will be described in detail with reference to a first of the item holding structures RT located adjacent to the first end of the second blank 410B as shown in FIG. 13.

[0333] The item retaining structure RT includes an item receiving opening defined in part by an opening A1.

[0334] The article holding structure RT includes a plurality of engagement teeth 440 disposed around the opening A1.

[0335] The plurality of tines 440 are hinged to the main panel 412 by fold lines. The fold lines may be defined by a plurality of cut lines 443, 445. The plurality of cut lines 443, 445 may define or approximate a circle.

[0336] Each of the teeth 440 includes an engagement edge E1 opposite the hinged edge. The engagement edge E1 is defined by a straight portion of the cut line that defines the opening A1. Each engagement edge E1 defines a portion of a polygon. The illustrated embodiment includes 16 teeth 440. Each tooth 440 includes a pair of side edges that are defined by cut lines 441 that extend radially outward from respective vertices of the polygon, i.e., from respective vertices between a pair of adjacent straight portions of the cut lines that define the opening A1. The cut lines 441 are divergently disposed relative to one another and define an angle therebetween, which may be about 22.5°.

[0337] The item retaining structure RT may include a plurality of first circumferential cut lines 443. Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 443 is aligned with one of the radial cut lines 443 such that one of the radial cut lines 441, or an imaginary extension thereof, bisects each one of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 441.

[0338] Each of the plurality of first circumferential cuts 443 is spaced from one of the radial cuts 441 that bisects it so as to define a connecting nick or bridge portion between a pair of adjacently disposed teeth 440.

[0339] Each of the plurality of first circumferential cutting lines 443 may be a straight line.

[0340] The item retaining structure RT may include a plurality of second circumferential cut lines 445. Each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 445 is disposed between a pair of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 443 and spaced apart to define a pair of connecting nicks or bridge portions between each tine 440 and the main panel 412. The pair of connecting nicks or bridge portions provide a hinged or foldable connection between each tine 440 and the main panel 412.

[0341] Each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 445 may be straight. In an alternative embodiment, each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 443 may be arcuate or curved. In an alternative embodiment, each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 445 may be arcuate or curved.

[0342] In the illustrated embodiment, the radius of curvature of each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 445 is equal to the radius of curvature of each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 443, but may be different in other embodiments.

[0343] The blanks 410A, 410B include a handle structure H. The handle structure H includes a handle or finger opening disposed on a longitudinal axis that bisects the main panel 412. The handle opening is provided between the group of four item retaining structures RT. The handle opening is provided in the center or interior of the main panel 412.

[0344] Each handle opening is defined by a plurality of tabs 460, 462. The handle opening comprises four tabs 460, 462. Each tab 460, 462 is hinged to the main panel 412 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. Arcuate or curved cut lines may be provided between each fold line to define corners or apexes of the handle opening. The handle opening is substantially rhomboid or diamond shaped, and in other embodiments may adopt other shapes such as, but not limited to, a square. The handle opening comprises a pair of large tabs 460 and a pair of small tabs 462.

[0345] The pair of large tabs 460 are separated from one another by a first cut or separable line. The pair of small tabs 462 are separated from one another by a first cut or separable line. The pair of large tabs 460 are separated from the pair of small tabs 462 by a second cut or separable line.

[0346] The first cut line is collinear with an imaginary line passing longitudinally through the centres of the group of four item retaining structures RT.

[0347] The first cut line may be linear in shape and may extend between a first pair of opposing apexes of the handle opening. The second cut line may be non-linear in shape and may extend between a second pair of opposing apexes of the handle opening. The second cut line intersects the first cut line, the second cut line comprising a "V" or "U" shaped intermediate portion, the apex of the "V" or "U" shaped portion intersecting the first cut line.

[0348] One of the pair of large tabs 460 is hinged to the main panel 412 by a first fold line. The other of the pair of large tabs 460 is hinged to the main panel 412 by a second fold line. The first fold line is disposed divergently with respect to the second fold line.

[0349] One of the pair of small tabs 462 is hinged to the main panel 412 by a third fold line. The other of the pair of small tabs 462 is hinged to the main panel 412 by a fourth fold line. The third fold line is disposed divergently with respect to the fourth fold line.

[0350] The first fold line is disposed divergently with respect to the third fold line, and the second fold line is disposed divergently with respect to the fourth fold line.

[0351] The handle openings may form a stabilizing device during application of the blanks 410A, 410B to the group of articles B. The stabilizing device is configured to receive an abutment peg or dog (described in more detail below).

[0352] The opening of the stabilization device may be non-circular in shape and may be substantially square or diamond shaped.

[0353] Pegs or dogs may be provided for engaging the blanks 410A, 410B through the handle openings to prevent or inhibit linear or rotational movement of the blanks 410A, 410B relative to the dogs. The dogs may be attached to or integral with an applicator device, described in more detail below, for applying the blanks 410A, 410B to the group of articles B.

[0354] The opening of the stabilization device, or the handle opening, may include at least one flat or straight portion for engaging a complementary flat or straight portion of the dog. In other embodiments, the stabilization device or the handle opening may include at least one generally "V" or "U" shaped portion for engaging a complementary portion of the dog.

[0355] The blanks 410A, 410B are applied simultaneously to a pair of groups of articles. The main panel 412 of each blank 410A, 410B is applied to one of the groups of articles B. The pair of joined blanks 401 is lowered relative to articles B so that they rest thereon, as shown in FIG.

[0356] An applicator device AP is provided for engaging the blanks 410A, 410B with the articles B. The applicator device AP comprises a plate or body 450 from which may extend a number of guides G. The guides G depend downwardly from the plate 450 to ensure that the articles B are maintained in a desired configuration or arrangement to be received by the blanks 410A, 410B. The guides may also secure or hold the pair of connected blanks 401 in alignment with the group of articles B. In the illustrated embodiment, the guides G take the form of a number of fingers or elongated members, although in other embodiments the guides may take the form of vertical walls depending downwardly from the plate 450 to surround at least an upper portion of the pair of article groups.

[0357] The applicator device AP comprises a pair of posts P1, P2 forming a retaining or stabilizing pin or lug depending from the lower or engagement surface of the plate 450. The illustrated embodiment comprises two stabilizing pins, as best shown in FIG. 14. In FIGS. 14-17, for illustrative purposes, a portion of the applicator device AP is cut away as shown by hatching. When the applicator device AP is lowered onto the pair of connected blanks 401 and the article B, the first post P1 engages the stabilizing device provided by the handle opening of the first blank 410A. The second post P2 engages the stabilizing device provided by the handle opening of the second blank 410B, best shown in FIG. 15. The tabs 460, 462 of the handle structure H are folded out of the plane of the main panel 412 as the stabilizing pins are received.

[0358] The cutting device BL depends from the lower surface of the plate 450, and the cutting device BL may take the form of a blade mounted substantially perpendicular to the lower surface of the plate 450. The cutting device BL extends laterally across the plate 450.

[0359] As the applicator device AP is lowered further relative to the pair of connected blanks 401, and article B, posts P1, P2 are inserted further through the handle openings and the cutting device BL is aligned with and moves downwardly relative to the frangible connection 413. In doing so, the cutting device BL separates or severs the connection nicks or bridge portions N1, N2, N3, N4, thereby separating the first and second blanks 410A, 410B from one another.

[0360] Continued lowering of the applicator device AP relative to the pair of blanks 410A, 410B and article B brings the lower or engagement surface of plate 450 into contact with the blanks 410A, 410B, as shown in FIG.

[0361] The lower or engagement surface of plate 450 includes a plurality of recesses or orifices OR, each adapted to receive an upper portion of item B. The illustrated embodiment includes eight orifices OR arranged in a 2×4 matrix or array. The orifices OR may be at least partially blind, i.e., the orifices OR include end stops ES that prevent passage of item B through plate 450.

[0362] Here, the stabilizing pin is fully inserted into the stabilizing device to prevent or arrest movement of the pair of blanks 410A, 410B relative to the applicator AP and to hold each blank 410A, 410B in precise alignment with the article B.

[0363] The applicator AP is further lowered against article B to press blanks 410A, 410B over the top edge of article B. The applicator AP presses blanks 410A, 410B downwardly such that article B is received in each of the article retaining structures RT. Tabs 440 are folded out of the plane of engagement panel 412 and engage under a flange or other suitable protrusion on article B, preferably shown in FIG. 17 to form a package.

[0364] The applicator AP is lifted relative to the package and the assembled package can be transported to a further processing station or to a point of sale.

[0365] Figure 18 shows several alternative blade configurations BL1, BL2, BL3, BL4, BL5. The first blade BL1 has a single breaking edge CE parallel to the attachment edge ME. The entire breaking edge CE simultaneously engages the frangible connection in use.

[0366] The second blade BL2 has a pair of breaking edges CE1, CE2 arranged divergently from each other to form a point or apex, each of the pair of breaking edges CE1, CE2 being non-parallel or arranged divergently with respect to the attachment edge ME.

[0367] A third blade BL3 is shown in FIG. 18, which is substantially similar to the second blade BL2, but with a pair of breaking edges CE1, CE2 arranged such that a small included angle is defined therebetween.

[0368] A fourth blade BL4 is shown in Figure 18 and is substantially similar to the second and third blades BL2, BL3, but with a pair of breaking edges CE1, CE2 arranged to define a small included angle therebetween. To achieve this without substantially increasing the height of the fourth blade BL4, each of the pair of breaking edges CE1, CE2 includes a peripheral portion that is arranged substantially parallel to the attachment edge ME.

[0369] The fifth blade BL5 is shown in FIG. 18, and the fifth blade BL5 comprises a recessed, scalloped or serrated breaking edge. The fifth blade BL5 comprises four divergently arranged breaking edges CE1, CE2, CE3, CE4. The first breaking edge CE1 and the second breaking edge CE2 are divergently arranged relative to each other to form a point or apex substantially in the center or middle region of the fifth blade BL5. The third and fourth breaking edges CE3, CE4 are provided in the peripheral region of the fifth blade BL5. The third breaking edge CE3 is divergently arranged relative to the first breaking edge CE1 and defines a recess R therebetween. The fourth breaking edge CE4 is divergently arranged relative to the second breaking edge CE2 and defines a recess R therebetween.

[0370] The third break edge CE3 may be disposed parallel to the second break edge CE2, and the fourth break edge CE4 may be disposed parallel to the first break edge CE1.

[0371] The fifth blade BL5 can be considered to have a number of breaking edges or blades CE1, CE2, CE3, CE4 attached to a common base or mounting body.

[0372] The fifth blade BL5 may be advantageous when separating a pair of blanks 410A, 410B where a first group of articles B engaged by a first blank 410A is in contact or proximity with a second group of articles B engaged by a second blank 410B. The recess R avoids areas of contact or proximity between the pair or cylindrical articles B. In this way, the fifth blade BL5 avoids contact or impact with the articles B.

[0373] 19, there is shown a packaging apparatus configured to automate the application of a pair of connected blanks 401 to a group of articles B. The packaging apparatus includes a plurality of tool heads 702 mounted on an overhead wheel arrangement 754.

[0374] An overhead wheel arrangement 754 is adapted to maintain the orientation of the applicator 720 relative to the conveyor 753. The applicator 720 is shown in cutaway view, as indicated by the hatching, to illustrate the attached posts P1, P2. The applicator 720 is maintained substantially parallel to the conveyor 753, such that the engagement surface of the plate 450 faces towards the article B and / or conveyor throughout the rotation of the overhead wheel.

[0375] Applicator 720 is movably mounted to tool head 702 and is resiliently biased towards conveyor 753 by spring mountings 758 which depend from mounting plate 756 .

[0376] Applicator 720 differs from that shown in Figures 13 to 17 in that guide G is omitted and instead a pair of connected blanks 401 is aligned relative to article B by reference posts 740 attached to article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734.

[0377] The packaging machine comprises a grouping and weighing device and an overhead applicator for applying a pair of connected blanks 410 to a group of weighed articles B.

[0378] The metering apparatus includes a first plurality of article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 for engaging, weighing and driving a first column of articles B through the packaging apparatus. The metering apparatus includes a second plurality of article engaging tools (not shown in FIG. 19) configured similarly to that shown in the embodiment of FIGS. 7 to 11 for engaging, weighing and driving a second column of articles B through the packaging apparatus. The second plurality of article engaging tools are positioned opposite the first plurality of article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734.

[0379] Each of the article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 is coupled to or comprises a drive mechanism for propelling each of the first and second pluralities of article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 about a respective track or loop.

[0380] Each of the article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 is coupled or attached to a respective track or loop (not shown) of any track having a working range and a return range. The article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 may include magnets (not shown) for holding the article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 to the track. The track includes a drive mechanism for driving the article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 around the track. The drive mechanism may take the form of a linear motor. A stator including a coil is attached to the track and generates a motive force by acting on the magnets to drive the article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 around the track. Each of the article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 may be independently or individually controlled, thus varying the pitch between the article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 and individually accelerating or decelerating the article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734.

[0381] Each article engagement tool 732A, 732B, 734 in the first plurality of article engagement tools is driven synchronously with a respective one of the article engagement tools in the second plurality of article engagement tools, at least through the working range of the packaging machine.

[0382] The packaging machine can merge a first stream of articles B with a second stream of articles B, where the first plurality of article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 engages articles from the first stream and the second plurality of article engagement tools engages articles from the second stream.

[0383] Each article engagement tool 732A, 732B, 734 includes a carriage having at least one wheel or follower 746, and in some embodiments, two, three, four or more wheels or followers 746 may be provided on each carriage and engage the track.

[0384] Each carriage includes a head removably attached by a locking mechanism. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism may take the form of a bayonet-style fitting or mount. In this manner, the heads may be easily separated from the carriage and replaced, swapped, or substituted. This allows the heads to be changed for different heads to accommodate different carton blanks or articles B, or to allow replacement of damaged or broken heads.

[0385] Each of the heads includes a gripper or scoop having at least one engagement surface for engaging an item B. The gripper includes a pair of fingers or legs defining a recess or channel positioned to receive a portion of the item B.

[0386] Each of the heads may include an upwardly extending reference pin or post 740. The reference pin 740 is attached to the head at a first proximal end and extends upward to a distal free end. The distal free end is located at a height above the top end of the article B. In this manner, the reference pin 740 is configured to engage a pair of connected blanks 401 when placed at the top end of an article B in a group of articles B. The heads forming the front and rear article engagement tools 732A, 732B may include a first reference pin or post 740. The heads forming the middle article engagement tool 734 may include an optional second reference pin or post. The second reference pin or post may be offset in a direction transverse to the article flow direction F with respect to the first reference pin 740 provided by the front and rear article engagement tools 732A, 732B.

[0387] The datum pin 740 is positioned to be located between a front portion of the head and a rear portion of the head, the datum pin 740 being located upstream of a downstream end, edge or wall of the article B that is engaged by the attached head, and the datum pin 740 being located downstream of an upstream end, edge or wall of the article B that is engaged by said head.

[0388] The datum pin 740 may be located within the footprint of the carriage and / or head. In this manner, two adjacent carriages or heads may be brought into close proximity without interference from the datum pin 740 or its attachment. Thus, the two or more article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 may bring two or more articles B into close proximity or engage two or more articles B that are placed in close proximity.

[0389] To form a group of weighed articles B, the pair of article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 combines a pair of articles B, one from each of the first and second columns of articles B or one from the stream of articles B.

[0390] Two or more pairs of article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 can be employed to form at least two groups of articles B, and in the illustrated embodiment, four pairs of article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 form two groups of four articles B in a 2 x 2 matrix or array.

[0391] To form a group, the leading pair of article engaging tools 732B may be delayed to allow the intermediate pair of article engaging tools 734 and the trailing pair of article engaging tools 732A to catch up with the downstream disposed pair of article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734. In some embodiments, at least a first pair of intermediate article engaging tools 734 catches up with the leading pair of article engaging tools 732B, at least a second pair of intermediate article engaging tools 734 trails a predetermined distance behind the at least a first pair of intermediate article engaging tools 734, and the trailing pair of article engaging tools 732A catches up with the at least a second pair of intermediate article engaging tools 734. As each upstream pair of article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 catches up with the adjacent downstream pair of article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734, they may also be delayed to match the speed of said downstream pair. It will be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the speed of the upstream pair of article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 may be increased or accelerated to catch up with the adjacent downstream pair of article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734.

[0392] As the article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 form the group of articles B, the connected blank 401 is lowered onto the top ends of the articles B that form the group.

[0393] The overhead wheel arrangement brings an applicator 720 into contact with the connected blanks 401, substantially similar to the applicator AP of FIGS.

[0394] 20 to 24, a packaging machine 800, preferably shown in FIG. 24, is shown configured to automate the separation of a pair of connected article carriers 491. A pair of connected blanks 401, as shown in FIG. 13 and described above, is applied to a group of a plurality of articles B to form a connected article carrier 491 at a previous station (not shown) of the packaging machine, which may be similar in configuration to the apparatus of FIG. 12 and described above, but omitting the second stabilizing peg or pin 654, and the folding dies or brakes may be omitted or replaced by positioning guides. The packaging machine 800 comprises at least one tool head 802 attached to an overhead conveyor arrangement 854 arranged on an article conveyor (not shown). The tool head 802 is arranged to move synchronously with the article conveyor over the working range of the overhead conveyor arrangement 854. The connected article carriers 491 are transported on the article conveyor downstream, as indicated by the directional arrow F. The illustrated embodiment includes a plurality of tool heads 802 mounted on a track 803 and driven about by a drive mechanism. In some embodiments, the drive mechanism may take the form of a chain or belt arranged as an endless loop. In other embodiments, each tool head 802 is independently driven about the track 803 and each tool head 802 may include a drive motor, or the drive mechanism may take the form of a linear motor similar to that described above with respect to the article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 of FIG.

[0395] Each tool head 802 comprises a chassis or carriage that couples a separator SP to a track 803. The separator SP comprises a plate or frame 850 from which depends a pair of guides G. The pair of guides G are spaced apart and positioned opposite one another. The guides G engage opposite sides of the connected article carrier 491. The guides G prevent or inhibit movement of the connected article carrier 491 in a direction transverse to the flow direction F. In Figures 22-24, a portion of the separator SP has been cut away or removed for illustrative purposes to show only one guide G.

[0396] The separator SP includes at least one stabilizing peg P1, P2 depending from the flat plate 850. The embodiment shown includes a pair of stabilizing pegs P1, P2 depending from the flat plate 850. Each of the pair of stabilizing pegs P1, P2 engages a respective one of the connected article carriers 491.

[0397] Each stabilizing peg P1, P2 is received in a handle or finger opening provided in the main panel 412 of each connected article carrier 491. The stabilizing pegs P1, P2 prevent or inhibit movement of the connected article carriers 491 while the separators SP divide the connected article carriers 491 into individual, separate, disconnected article carriers 491. Each stabilizing peg P1, P2 includes a fastener 811 that attaches the stabilizing peg P1, P2 to the slab 850. The fastener 811 is fitted with a mounting orifice M provided in the bottom or inner surface of the slab 850. A1 , M A2 Acceptable for mounting orifice M A1 , M A2 And the fixture 811 may be shaped to be coded or keyed to a particular mounting location or orientation. That is, the first post P1 is aligned with the first mounting orifice M A1 and the second post P1 is configured to be mounted to the second mounting orifice M A2 or each post P1, P2 is mounted in a predetermined orientation relative to the flat plate 850.

[0398] The stabilizing pegs P1, P2 may be detachably or removably attached to the applicator AP, 720. A1 , R A2 may be provided on the top or outer surface of the plate 850, and an opening R A1 , R A2 is the mounting orifice M A1 , M A2 Vertically aligned with each of the openings R A1 , R A2may be provided to secure the stabilizing pegs P1, P2 to the plate 850, allowing fasteners such as, but not limited to, screws or bolts to pass through the plate 850 and into the stabilizing pegs P1, P2. In some embodiments, the openings R A1 , R A2 may be provided to facilitate removal or replacement of the stabilizing pegs P1, P2, allowing a tool to be inserted through the plate 850 to provide access to the fasteners 811 for the stabilizing pegs P1, P2 through the mounting orifices M. A1 , M A2 811 is keyed and has a mounting orifice M A1 , M A2 It may be advantageous when the rotor cannot be rotated within the rotor.

[0399] The separator SP comprises at least one cutting or separating device BL. The at least one cutting or separating device BL may comprise one or more blades BL1, BL2, BL3, BL4 arranged to avoid collision with the packaged article. The illustrated embodiment comprises a pair of cutting or separating devices BL, each of which comprises a pair of blades BL1 / BL2 and BL3 / BL4, as shown in FIG. 21. A recess BLR separates the first blade BL1, BL3 from the second blade BL2, BL4 in each of the pair of blades BL1 / BL2 and BL3 / BL4. The recess is configured and arranged to avoid collision of the separating device BL with the article B in the article carrier 490. Each blade BL1, BL2, BL3, BL4 is attached to or integral with a bracket attached to the flat plate 850. The bracket comprises a base or mounting foot 808 and a leg 807 extending therefrom, which may be arranged substantially perpendicular to the base 80 and the flat plate 850. The base 808 may be mounted within a recess or channel in the lower surface of the plate 850. In other embodiments, the blades BL1, BL2, BL3, BL4 and the support bracket may be integral with the plate 850.

[0400] 24 shows the separator SP lowered relative to and into contact or engagement with the connected article carriers 491, the stabilizing pegs P1, P2 are received in the handle openings and the separator device BL breaks the connections 413 between the article carriers 490. The separator SP is then lifted relative to the article carriers 490 (not shown) and the tool head 802 returns to the start of the working range of the apparatus 800 to separate the subsequent group of connected article carriers 491.

[0401] The present disclosure provides a top-engagement type carrier 90, 190, 390, 490 having article retaining structures RT1, RT2 for engaging an article B, and a blank 10, 110, 310, 410A-B for forming the article carrier 90, 190, 390, 490.

[0402] The carrier 90, 190, 390, 490 includes a main panel 12, 112, 312, 412 having one or more article retaining structures RT1, RT2 for receiving and securing the main panel 12, 112, 312, 412 to a respective article B. The carrier 90, 190, 390 may include a pair of opposing side panels 18, 20, 118, 120, 314, 316 hingedly connected to the main panel 12, 112, 312 by a hinge connection.

[0403] The carrier 90, 190, 390 may include a pair of opposing end panels 14, 16, 114A, 114B, 116A, 116B, 324, 334 hingedly connected to the main or mating panel 12, 112, 312 by a hinge connection.

[0404] The blanks 10, 110, 310, 410A-B have a periphery, a portion of which may be provided with at least one alignment edge shaped to prevent movement in two orthogonal directions when engaged by a reference device or pin 440, 540, 640, 740.

[0405] The carrier 90, 190, 390 may include a panel 18, 20, 118, 120, 318, 320 hinged to a main panel 12, 112, 312, with the panel 18, 20, 118, 120, 318, 320 including registration edges shaped to prevent movement in two orthogonal directions.

[0406] The carrier 90, 190, 390 may include a pair of panels 18, 20, 118, 120, 318, 320 hinged to the main panel 12, 112, 312 on either side, each of the pair of panels 18, 20, 118, 120, 318, 320 including registration edges shaped to prevent movement in two orthogonal directions.

[0407] A straight imaginary line N1, N2 passing through the registration edges of each of the pair of panels 18, 20, 118, 120, 318, 320 passes through the opening in the main panel 12, 112, 312 defined by the provided article retaining structure RT1, RT2.

[0408] The main or engagement panel 12, 112, 312, 412 may include at least one stabilizing device M positioned to provide an opening in the main panel 12, 112, 312, 412 and to prevent movement in two orthogonal directions.

[0409] The present disclosure provides apparatus 400, 500, 600, 700 for packaging one or more articles in an article carrier 90, 190, 390, 490. The apparatus 400, 500, 600, 700 includes an article engagement tool 432A, 432B, 434, 532A, 532B, 534, 632A, 632B, 634, 732A, 732B, 734 for engaging an article B and transporting the article B in a downstream direction. The article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434, 532A, 532B, 534, 632A, 632B, 634, 732A, 732B, 734 are provided with reference devices in the form of abutment pins or pegs 440, 540, 640, 740 for aligning the blanks 10, 110, 310, 410A-B with respect to the article B.

[0410] The article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434, 532A, 532B, 534, 632A, 632B, 634, 732A, 732B, 734 may include removable heads 442, 542 to which a reference device is attached. The heads 442, 542 may include part of a tool-less attachment or mounting system, such as, but not limited to, a bayonet fitting.

[0411] The apparatus 400, 500, 600, 700 may include a plurality of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434, 532A, 532B, 534, 632A, 632B, 634, 732A, 732B, 734 for engaging respective articles B, weighing and grouping the articles B, and conveying said articles B downstream as weighed groups. Each of the plurality of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434, 532A, 532B, 534, 632A, 632B, 634, 732A, 732B, 734 is independently driven about an endless track having a working range and a return range.

[0412] The multiple article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434, 532A, 532B, 534, 632A, 632B, 634, 732A, 732B, 734 may be configured to form a weighed group of articles B and align the blanks 10, 110, 310, 410A-B. The articles B may be formed into weighed groups and aligned simultaneously with the blanks 10, 110, 310, 410A-B to be fed to the top ends of the articles B. The blanks 10, 110, 310, 410A-B may be contacted or aligned with an abutment pin 440, 540, 640, 740 attached to a forward or downstream one of a number of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434, 532A, 532B, 534, 632A, 632B, 634, 732A, 732B, 734 forming an article group.

[0413] The blanks 10, 110, 310, 410A-B may be contacted or aligned with abutment pins 440, 540, 640, 740 attached to each of a forward pair or a downstream one of a plurality of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434, 532A, 532B, 534, 632A, 632B, 634, 732A, 732B, 734 forming an article group.

[0414] At least one abutment pin 440, 540, 640, 740 attached to a rearward or upstream one of the multiple article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434, 532A, 532B, 534, 632A, 632B, 634, 732A, 732B, 734 that form the article group may contact the blank 10, 110, 310, 410A-B once formation of the article group is completed.

[0415] The abutment pins 440, 540, 640, 740 may be shaped to provide at least two points of contact with the alignment edges to prevent movement of the blanks 10, 110, 310, 410A-B parallel to the direction of flow of the blanks 10, 110, 310, 410A-B through the apparatus 400, 500, 600, 700 and perpendicular or transverse to the direction of flow of the blanks 10, 110, 310, 410A-B through the apparatus 400, 500, 600, 700.

[0416] The apparatus 400, 500, 600, 700 may comprise an applicator 420, 520, 620, 720, AP for pressing the blank 10, 110, 310, 410A-B onto the group of articles B. The applicator 420, 520, 620, 720, AP may comprise a plurality of article receiving orifices, each for receiving a respective article B of the group.

[0417] The applicator 420, 520, 620, 720, AP includes at least one stabilizing peg 450, 650, 654, P1, P2 that is receivable into an opening in a stabilizing device M provided in the main panel 12, 112, 312, 412. The at least one stabilizing peg 450, 650, 654, P1, P2 inhibits movement of the blank 10, 110, 310, 410A-B relative to the applicator 420, 520, 620, 720, AP.

[0418] At least one stabilizing peg 450, 650, 654, P1, P2 prevents or inhibits movement of the blanks 10, 110, 310, 410A-B relative to the article B in a direction parallel to the direction of flow of the blanks 10, 110, 310, 410A-B through the apparatus 400, 500, 600, 700 and in a lateral direction perpendicular to the direction of flow of the blanks 10, 110, 310, 410A-B through the apparatus 400, 500, 600, 700.

[0419] The applicators 420, 520, 620, 720, AP are mounted on an overhead conveyor in the form of a wheel which applies or engages groups of articles B to blanks 10, 110, 310, 410A-B as they are conveyed downstream by a plurality of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434, 532A, 532B, 534, 632A, 632B, 634, 732A, 732B, 734.

[0420] The applicators 420, 520, 620, 720, AP include one or more folding dies or brakes that fold panels, each hinged to the main panel 12, 112, 312, 412, at least partially around the group of articles B, said panels may include registration edges.

[0421] In some embodiments, one or more panels of the blank 10, 110, 310, 410A-B may be contacted with a static folding guide and the applicator 420, 520, 620, 720, AP engages or contacts the blank 10, 110, 310, 410A-B.

[0422] The present disclosure provides a method for packaging a plurality of articles B. The method includes conveying a stream of articles B downstream through a packaging device, engaging each article B with an article engagement tool 432A, 432B, 434, 532A, 532B, 534, 632A, 632B, 634, 732A, 732B, 734, grouping a plurality of articles B, and simultaneously applying a blank to a top end of the articles B. The method includes engaging at least one front alignment edge of the blank 10, 110, 310, 410A-B with a reference pin 440, 540, 640, 740 attached to the front article engagement tool 432A, 432B, 434, 532A, 532B, 534, 632A, 632B, 634, 732A, 732B, 734. The method includes weighing a group of articles B and engaging at least one rear alignment edge of a blank 10, 110, 310, 410A-B with a reference pin 440, 540, 640, 740 attached to a rear article engagement tool 432A, 432B, 434, 532A, 532B, 534, 632A, 632B, 634, 732A, 732B, 734.

[0423] The method further includes applying the blanks 10, 110, 310, 410A-B to the group of articles B to engage each article B within a respective article retaining device RT1, RT2 provided on the main panel 12, 112, 312, 412 of the blank 10, 110, 310, 410A-B. Applying the blanks 10, 110, 310, 410A-B to the group of articles B includes inserting stabilizing pegs 450, 650, 654, P1, P2 into openings of a stabilizing device M provided on the main panel 12, 112, 312, 412 prior to pressing the main panel onto the group of articles B.

[0424] The step of applying the blank 10, 110, 310, 410A-B to the group of articles B may further include at least partially folding one or more panels having front and / or rear registration edges and coupled to the main panel 12, 112, 312, 412. The one or more panels may be folded before, simultaneously with, or after the main panel 12, 112, 312, 412 engages the group of articles B.

[0425] The present disclosure provides a top-engagement type carrier 490 having article retaining structures RT, RT1, RT2 for engaging an article B, and blanks 410A-B for forming the article carrier 490. The present disclosure provides a plurality of connected blanks 401 that can be simultaneously applied to a group of a plurality of articles B. Each of the blanks 410A-B of the plurality of connected blanks 401 is frangibly connected to at least one other blank 410A-B.

[0426] The present disclosure provides an apparatus 700 for packaging one or more articles in an article carrier 490. The apparatus may include article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 for engaging article B and transporting article B in a downstream direction. The article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 include reference devices in the form of abutment pins or pegs 740 for aligning a plurality of connected blanks 401 relative to article B.

[0427] The plurality of article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 may be configured to form a weighed group of articles B and align the plurality of connected blanks 401 therewith. Article B may be formed into a weighed group and aligned simultaneously with the plurality of connected blanks 401 as it is fed to the top end of article B. The plurality of connected blanks 401 may contact or be aligned with an abutment pin 740 attached to a forward or downstream one of the plurality of article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 that form the article group.

[0428] The multiple connected blanks 401 may contact or be aligned with an abutment pin 740 attached to each of a forward pair, or a downstream one, of the multiple article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 that form the article group.

[0429] At least one abutment pin 740 attached to a rearward or upstream one of the multiple article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 that form the article group may contact the multiple connected blanks 401 once formation of the article group is completed.

[0430] The abutment pin 740 may be shaped to provide at least two points of contact with the alignment edge to prevent movement of the multiple connected blanks 401 parallel to the direction of flow of the multiple connected blanks 401 through the apparatus 700 and perpendicular or transverse to the direction of flow of the multiple connected blanks 401 through the apparatus 700.

[0431] The present disclosure provides an applicator AP, 720 for pressing a plurality of connected blanks 401 onto a group of articles B. The applicator AP, 720 may comprise a plurality of article receiving orifices, each for receiving a respective article B of the group. The applicator 720 may form part of a tool head 702 mounted to an overhead wheel arrangement 754 for applying or engaging the plurality of connected blanks 401 to the group of articles B as they are conveyed downstream on a conveyor. The applicator AP, 720 comprises at least one cutting or separating device for breaking the frangible connection 413 between adjacently disposed blanks 410A-B.

[0432] The applicator AP, 720 may include at least one stabilizing peg P1, P2 receivable into an opening of a stabilizing device provided in a main panel 412 of at least one blank 410A-B forming the plurality of connected blanks 401. The at least one stabilizing peg P1, P2 restrains movement of the plurality of connected blanks 401 relative to the applicator AP, 720.

[0433] At least one stabilizing peg P1, P2 prevents or inhibits movement of the multiple connected blanks 401 relative to article B in a direction parallel to the direction of flow of the multiple connected blanks 1 through the packaging apparatus and in a lateral direction perpendicular to the direction of flow of the multiple connected blanks 401 through the packaging apparatus.

[0434] The stabilizing pegs P1, P2 may be detachably or removably attached to the applicator AP, 720. The stabilizing pegs P1, P2 may be coded or keyed to a particular attachment location or orientation.

[0435] The cutting or separating device may comprise one or more blades CE1, CE2, CE3, CE4, BL, BL1, BL2, BL3, BL4, BL5 arranged to avoid collision with the packaged articles. The blades may be attached to a common body in a spaced apart configuration. The blades are arranged to be received in gaps or voids between two or more articles B, the articles B being generally cylindrical in shape. The frangible connection 413 may include connecting vertically aligned nicks or bridge portions N1, N2, N3, N4 with the gaps or voids between the two or more articles B. The connecting nicks or bridge portions N1, N2, N3, N4 may be arranged in pairs arranged substantially on either side of the closest region between the article B in the first blank and the article B in the second connected blank.

[0436] The blades BL, BL2, BL3 may be detachably or removably attached to the applicator AP, 720 such that the arrangement of the blades BL, BL2, BL3 is reconfigurable depending on the arrangement and / or size of the blank being applied to the article B.

[0437] The present disclosure also provides a cutting device for separating a plurality of connected article carriers into individual carriers. The cutting device may include a plurality of article receiving orifices, each for receiving a respective article B of a group. The cutting device may include at least one blade BL, BL1, BL2, BL3, BL4, BL5 that is detachably or removably attached such that the arrangement of the blades BL, BL1, BL2, BL3, BL4, BL5 is reconfigurable depending on the arrangement and / or size of the blank to be applied to the article B.

[0438] The blades BL, BL1, BL2, BL3, BL4, BL5 may be supported laterally by supporting or auxiliary blades. The blade and the supporting or auxiliary blade may each be provided with a receiving portion in the form of a recess or slot for receiving a portion of the other.

[0439] The present disclosure provides a method of packaging a plurality of articles B. The method includes conveying a stream of articles B downstream through a packaging device, engaging each article B with an article engagement tool 732A, 732B, 734, grouping the plurality of articles B, and simultaneously applying a plurality of connected blanks 401 to the top ends of the articles B. The method includes engaging at least one front alignment edge of the plurality of connected blanks 401 of the blank with a reference pin 740 attached to the front article engagement tool 732A, 732B, 734. The method includes weighing the group of articles B, and engaging at least one rear alignment edge of the plurality of connected blanks 401 with a reference pin 740 attached to the rear article engagement tool 732A, 732B, 734.

[0440] The method further includes separating the plurality of connected blanks 401 into individual blanks 410A, 410B and simultaneously applying the individual blanks 410A, 410B to respective groups of articles B. Separating the plurality of connected blanks 401 includes inserting stabilizing pegs P1, P2 into openings in a stabilizing device provided in the main panel 412 prior to severing the frangible connections between the pairs of blanks 410A, 410B.

[0441] The blanks 10, 110, 310, 410A-B include at least a paperboard substrate. The material of the paperboard substrate may be selected from any conventional paperboard, for example ranging in weight from about 10 pt and up, preferably from about 16 pt to about 28 pt (0.028 in. / ~0.7 mm). An example of such a substrate is 27 point (pt). SBS board (solid bleached sulfate board coated on one side, trade name PrintKote®) from WestRock® Corporation, or CNK® board (Coated Natural Kraft®, unbleached kraft board with a clay coating on one side, trade name CarrierKote®). The paperboard substrate may be a bleached or unbleached board. The board may be coated on at least one side, optionally on the opposite side of the laminate, with a conventional coating selected for compatibility with the printing method and board composition.

[0442] The blanks 10, 110, 310, 410A-B may include a tear resistant layer laminated to the paperboard layer. This may optionally include an adhesive layer between the paperboard substrate and the tear resistant layer. The tear resistant layer may be disposed on the uncoated side of the paperboard substrate and may be formed from a polymeric material and secured to the substrate. The tear resistant layer imparts toughness to the laminate structure. Suitable tear resistant materials may include, but are not limited to, tear resistant laminate sheet materials, such as NATRALOCK®, which may include layers of n-axially oriented film, MYLAR®, which is a biaxially oriented polyester, oriented nylon, cross-laminated polyolefin or high density polyolefin. The orientation and cross-laminated structure of these materials contribute to the tear resistant properties. Tear resistance may also be due to the chemical nature of the tear resistant material, such as extruded metallocene catalyzed polyethylene (mPE).

[0443] Alternatively, the tear resistant layer may be a layer of linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE). In embodiments where linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE), or mPE, is used, it is not necessary to incorporate an adhesive layer. Other suitable materials having a high level of tear resistance may be used.

[0444] The adhesive layer may be formed from a polyolefin material, such as low density polyethylene (LDPE). The adhesive layer may be disposed between the substrate and the tear resistant layer to secure the tear resistant layer to the substrate.

[0445] It will be understood that various modifications may be made within the scope of the invention. For example, the size and shape of the panels and openings may be adjusted to accommodate articles of different sizes or shapes. Shoulder panels may be omitted. The invention is not limited to top-engagement type cartons, and the invention may be employed with other carton styles, such as, but not limited to, open top crates, lidded or closed top crates. In various embodiments, the separator device may be readily adapted to apply a blank to a group of articles B, and similarly, the applicator device may be readily adapted to separate multiple connected article carriers.

[0446] It will be appreciated that as used herein, directional references such as "top," "bottom," "base," "front," "back," "end," "side," "inner," "outer," "upper," and "lower" do not necessarily limit each panel in such manner, but may merely serve to distinguish these panels from one another.

[0447] As used herein, the terms "hinge connection" and "fold line" refer to all manner of lines that define a hinge mechanism of a blank, facilitate folding of portions of the blank relative to one another, or indicate an optimal panel folding location of the blank. Any reference to a "hinge connection" should not be construed as necessarily referring to only a single fold line, and in fact a hinge connection may be formed from two or more fold lines, each of which may be either straight / linear or curved / curved in shape. When straight fold lines form a hinge connection, they may be disposed parallel to one another or slightly angled relative to one another. When curved fold lines form a hinge connection, they may intersect one another to define a shaped panel within the area enclosed by the curved fold lines. A typical example of such a hinge connection may comprise a pair of arched or arcuate fold lines that intersect at two points to define an oval panel between them. A hinge connection may 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 comprise 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.

[0448] As used herein, the term "fold line" may refer to one of a scored line, an embossed line, a debossed line, a perforated line, a short slit line, a half-cut line, a single half-cut, an interrupted cut line, an aligned slit line, a score line, and any combination of the foregoing options.

[0449] It should be understood that the hinge connections and fold lines may each include elements formed in the substrate of the blank 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 may be sized and positioned to provide a desired function. For example, the perforation lines may be sized or designed to have a degree of weakness to define the fold and / or separation lines. The perforation lines may be designed to facilitate folding and resist breaking, facilitate folding and facilitate breaking with effort, or facilitate breaking with little effort.

[0450] The phrase "aligned" as used herein refers to the alignment of two or more elements in an upright 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. The elements that are aligned with each other may be aligned with each other in the thickness direction of the overlapping panels. For example, when an opening in a first panel is "aligned" with a second opening in a second panel that is disposed in an overlapping arrangement with the first panel, an edge of the opening may extend along at least a portion of an edge of the second opening and may be aligned with the second opening in the thickness direction of the first and second panels. [Explanation of symbols]

[0451] 10 blank, 12 panel, 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d corner area, 13, 13a, 13b fold line, 14 end panel, side wall or end wall, 15, 15a, 15b fold line, 16 end panel, side wall or end wall, 17, 17a, 17b fold line, 18 side panel, side wall or end wall, 19, 19a, 19b fold line, 20 side panel, side wall or end wall, 40a, 40b, 40c engagement teeth, 41 radial cut line, 42 tab, 43 circumferential cut line, 44 tab, 45 circumferential cut line, 50a, 50b, 50c teeth, 51 radial cut line, 53 circumferential cut line, 54 tab, 55 circumferential cut line, 60 tab, 62 tab, 90 carton or carrier, 94 tab, 95 cut or separable line, 101 cut line, 110 blank, 112 panel, 113A, 113B fold line, 114A, 114B panel, 115A, 115B fold line, 116A, 116B panel, 117 fold line, 118 panel, 119 fold line, 120 panel, 140 teeth, 142 tab, 144 tab, 154 tab, 160A, 160B corner panel, 161A, 161B fold line, 162A, 162B corner panel, 163A, 163B fold line, 164A, 164B fixed panel, 165A, 165B fold line, 166A, 166B fixed panel, 167A, 167B fold line, 168A, 168B web panel, 169A, 169B fold line, 170A, 170B web panel, 171A, 171B fold line, 172 flap, 173A, 173B fold line, 174A, 174B wing section, 175A, 175B fold line, 176, 176A, 176B flap, wing section, 177A, 177B fold line, 178A, 178B wing section, 179A, 179B fold line, 190 carton or carrier, 194 tab, 195 cut or separable line, 214B panel, 310 blank, 312 panel, 313 fold line, 314 panel, 315 fold line, 316 panel, 317 fold line, 318 panel, 319 fold line, 320 panel, 322A, 322B anchor flap, 323A, 323B fold line, 324 panel, 325 fold line, 326top end flap, 327 fold line, 328A, 328B panel, 330A, 330B panel, 332A, 332B anchor flap, 333A, 333B fold line, 334 panel, 335 fold line, 336 top end flap, 337 fold line, 338A, 338B panel, 339B fold line, 340A, 340B panel, 355B fold line, 359B fold line, 370 tab, 372 tab, 377 cuttable or separable line, 380 tab, 381 hinge connection, 390 carton or carrier, 391 fold line, hinge connection, 392 tab, 393 fold line, hinge connection, 394 tab, 395 fold line, 396 tab, 397 separation or cut line, 399 separation or cut line, 400 packaging device, 401 connected blank, 410A, 410B blank, 412 main or engagement panel, 413 frangible connection, 420 applicator, 421 plate, 432A, 432B article engagement tool, 434 article engagement tool, 440, 440' datum pin or post, teeth, abutment pin or peg, 441 cut line, 442 head, 443 gripper or scoop, cut line, engagement surface, 444 securing mechanism, locking mechanism, 445 cut line, , 446 wheel or follower, 448 carriage, 450 retaining or stabilizing pin, plate or body, 452A, 452B folding die or brake, 460 tab, 462 tab, 490 Carton or carrier, 491 Article carrier, 500 Packaging apparatus, 532A, 532B Article engagement tool, 534 Article engagement tool, 540 Reference pin, abutment pin or peg, 542 Head, 543 Engagement surface, 544 Fixing mechanism, 548 Carriage, 600 Packaging apparatus, 620 Applicator, 632A, 632B Article engagement tool, 634 Article engagement tool, 640 Pin, abutment pin or peg, 650 Stabilizing peg or pin, 652C Bending die or brake, 654 Stabilizing peg or pin, 700 Apparatus, 702 Tool head, 720 Applicator, 732A, 732B Article engagement tool, 734 Article engagement tool, 740 Reference post, pin, abutment pin or peg, 746 Wheel or follower, 753 Conveyor, 754overhead wheel arrangement, 756 mounting plate, 758 spring mounting, 800 packaging device, 802 tool head, 803 track, 807 legs, 808 base or mounting foot, 811 fixture, 850 frame, plate, 854 overhead conveyor arrangement, A1, A2, A3, A5, A10 opening, AP applicator device, B article, BL, BL1, BL2, BL3, BL4, BL5 cutting device, blade configuration, BLR recess, C1, C2, C3 notch, recess, locking tab or detent, CE, CE1, CE2, CE3, CE4 breaking edge, blade, d1, d2 distance, E1, E2 engaging edge, ES end stop, F article flow direction, G guide, H handle structure, L locking element, M stabilizing device, M A1 , M A2 Mounting orifice, ME Mounting edge, N1, N2, N3, N4 Connection nick or bridge, imaginary line, OR Orifice, P1, P2 Tab, post, stabilizing peg, R Recess, R A1 , R A2 Opening section, RC receiving section, RT1, RT2 article holding structure, S1, S2 side edge, SP separator, V1, V2 cutting line, W1, W2 positioning or alignment device, X imaginary line, Y line

Claims

**Claim 1** An article engagement carrier for packaging at least one article, the carrier comprising a main panel having at least one article holding structure for engaging an article, the carrier comprising at least one panel having a peripheral edge, and a portion of the peripheral edge being formed to provide at least one alignment edge configured to prevent movement in two orthogonal directions when engaged by a reference device of a packaging apparatus. An article carrier. **Claim 2** The article carrier according to claim 1, further comprising a side panel hingedly connected to the main panel by a hinge connection. **Claim 3** The article carrier according to claim 2, wherein the at least one alignment edge is provided by a peripheral edge of the side panel. **Claim 4** The article carrier according to claim 3, wherein the at least one alignment edge comprises a front alignment edge and a rear alignment edge. **Claim 5** The article carrier according to claim 1, further comprising a pair of opposing side panels, each hingedly connected to the main panel by a hinge connection and having at least one alignment edge. **Claim 6** The article carrier according to claim 1, further comprising a pair of opposing end panels, each hingedly connected to the main panel by a hinge connection. **Claim 7** The article carrier according to claim 1, wherein the panel having a peripheral edge provided with at least one alignment edge is hingedly connected to the main panel by a hinge connection. **Claim 8** The article carrier according to claim 1, wherein the main panel is provided with an opening and at least one stabilizing device configured to prevent movement in two orthogonal directions. **Claim 9** An apparatus for packaging one or more articles within an article carrier, the apparatus comprising an article engagement tool for engaging an article and transporting the article in a downstream direction, the article engagement tool comprising a reference device for aligning at least one blank with one or more articles. An apparatus. **Claim 10** The apparatus according to claim 9, further comprising an overhead conveyor for transporting the blank onto the one or more articles. **Claim 11** The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the reference device comprises a contact pin extending upward from the article engagement tool beyond an upper end of the one or more articles.

12. The apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the article engagement tool comprises a removable head to which the reference device is attached.

13. The apparatus according to claim 9, comprising a plurality of article engagement tools, each engaging a respective article, weighing and grouping the articles, and conveying the articles as at least one weighed group in a downstream direction.

14. The apparatus according to claim 9, comprising an applicator for pressing the at least one blank against a group of the at least one article, the applicator comprising a plurality of article receiving orifices, each receiving a respective article of the at least one group of articles formed by the apparatus.

15. The apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the applicator comprises at least one stabilization peg receivable in an opening of a stabilization device provided in a main panel of the at least one blank, the at least one stabilization peg being configured to inhibit movement of the at least one blank relative to the applicator.

16. The apparatus according to claim 15, wherein at least one stabilization peg prevents or arrests movement of the at least one blank relative to the at least one group of articles in a direction parallel to a direction of flow of the at least one blank through the apparatus and in a lateral direction perpendicular to the direction of flow of the at least one blank through the apparatus.

17. A blank for forming the article carrier according to claim 1.

18. A blank for forming an article engagement carrier for packaging at least one article, the blank comprising a main panel having at least one article holding structure for engaging the article, the main panel comprising at least one stabilization device having an opening provided in the main panel to prevent movement of the main panel in two orthogonal directions when the opening receives a stabilization peg of an applicator for pressing the main panel onto the at least one article.

19. The blank further comprises at least one panel having a peripheral portion, and when a part of the peripheral portion is engaged by a reference device of a packaging apparatus, at least one alignment edge is provided which is shaped to prevent movement in two orthogonal directions. The blank according to claim 18.

20. The blank according to claim 18, wherein the opening is defined by at least one tab punched from the main panel and hinge-connected thereto.

21. The blank according to claim 18, wherein the opening has a non-circular shape in order to prevent rotational movement of the blank when receiving a stabilizing peg of an applicator having a non-circular cross-section.

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