Article carrier and blanks therefor

Abstract

An article carrier for engaging at least one article includes spaced apart panels including an engagement panel and a cover panel hingedly connected by a side panel. The engagement panel includes at least one article retention structure including an annular array of engagement tabs and a friction flap. The friction flap is surrounded by the annular array of engagement tabs. The friction flap is coupled to the engagement panel by at least one connection tab. The at least one connection tab is disposed proximate a fold line between the engagement panel and the side panel.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] [CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS] This application claims priority to and the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 283,096, filed November 24, 2021, U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 404,919, filed September 8, 2022, and U.S. Provisional Application No. 63 / 424,303, filed November 10, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.

[0002] The present invention relates to article carriers and blanks for forming article carriers, and more particularly, but not by way of limitation, to top-grip type carriers having one or more openings for receiving and holding an article and with friction flaps for frictionally engaging the article. [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 serve to transport, store, and provide access to groups of items for consumption by consumers. Cost and environmental considerations require that such cartons or carriers be made from as little material as possible and that the materials from which they are formed are wasted as little as possible. Additionally, consideration must be given to the strength of the carton and its suitability for storing and transporting heavy items. It is desirable for the contents of the carton to remain safe within the carton.

[0004] It is well known to provide an upper grip article carrier having an aperture formed in a panel of the carrier through which a tab projects out of the plane of the panel when an article is received within the aperture, the tab engaging the article near a flange or lip of the article. Summary of the Invention

[0005] The present invention seeks to provide improvements in the field of cartons, which are typically formed from paperboard or the like.

[0006] A first aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for engaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises a pair of spaced apart panels including an engagement panel and a cover panel hingedly connected by a side panel. The article carrier comprises at least one article retention structure having an annular row of engagement tabs and a friction flap. The friction flap is surrounded by the annular row of engagement tabs. The friction flap is coupled to the engagement panel by at least one connection tab. The at least one connection tab is located near a fold line between the engagement panel and the side or end panel.

[0007] Optionally, the friction flap is not constrained by the cover panel.

[0008] Optionally, the friction flap is not adhesively secured to the cover panel.

[0009] Optionally, the side panel engages at least a portion of the friction flap to, in use, urge the at least one connection tab towards or against an item in the item retaining structure.

[0010] Optionally, the side panel contacts the at least one connection tab and presses the at least one connection tab against an item within the item holding structure.

[0011] Optionally, the article retaining structure includes an opening surrounded by an annular array of engagement tabs.

[0012] Optionally, the friction flap includes at least one peripheral tab.

[0013] Optionally, the at least one peripheral tab includes two or more peripheral tabs.

[0014] Optionally, at least one peripheral tab is stamped out from the at least one connecting tab.

[0015] Optionally, at least one peripheral tab extends from the friction flap and interrupts the annular row of engagement tabs to at least partially define a cutaway.

[0016] Optionally, at least one peripheral tab is defined by a non-straight cut line.

[0017] Optionally, the at least one peripheral tab is defined by a portion of the "H" shaped cut line.

[0018] Optionally, the at least one peripheral tab engages the side panel and urges the at least one connecting tab towards an item within the item holding structure.

[0019] Optionally, the friction flap is joined to the engagement panel by a pair of connecting tabs.

[0020] Optionally, the pair of connecting tabs are spaced apart from one another by an article engaging tab.

[0021] Optionally, the article-engaging tab is defined by a portion of the "H" shaped cut line.

[0022] A second aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for engaging at least one article, the article carrier comprising a top panel, a bottom panel, and a pair of locking tabs formed from the top panel and hinged to the top panel by respective fold lines, the fold lines being oriented obliquely relative to side edges of the top panel, and the locking tabs extending in opposite directions from the fold lines.

[0023] Optionally, the fold lines are arranged parallel to one another.

[0024] Optionally, a pair of locking tabs provide a retention device that secures the upper panel in place over the lower panel, with at least a portion of the locking tabs disposed between the upper and lower panels to maintain the spacing therebetween.

[0025] A third aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for engaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises spaced apart panels including an engagement panel and a cover panel hingedly connected by a side panel. The article carrier comprises at least one article retaining structure having a plurality of engagement tabs. The carrier comprises an end closure structure including an end panel and a top end flap hingedly connected thereto. The end closure structure comprises an article engaging mechanism including a cut line at least partially formed in the end panel. The cut line has a first width dimension and defines an engaging edge of the end panel. The end panel in the region of the engaging edge is arranged to rest against at least one of the plurality of engaging tabs of the at least one article retaining structure. At least one of the plurality of engaging tabs has an engaging edge having a second width dimension. The second width dimension is less than the first width dimension.

[0026] Optionally, at least one of the plurality of engagement tabs is hinged to the engagement panel by a joint located proximate a fold line that hinges the end panel to the engagement panel.

[0027] Optionally, at least one of the plurality of engagement tabs is defined by a pair of non-linear cut lines spaced from the fold line hinged to the end panel to the engagement panel.

[0028] Optionally, at least one of the plurality of engagement tabs is defined by a pair of "J" shaped cut lines spaced from the fold line hinged to the end panel to the engagement panel.

[0029] Optionally, the cut line is non-linear and defines a cover tab that is stamped from the end panel and extends from the top end flap.

[0030] Optionally, the end panel and at least one of the plurality of engagement tabs are disposed at an angle relative to the engagement panel.

[0031] A fourth aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for engaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises a tubular structure including a cover panel and an engagement panel hingedly connected by opposing side panels. The article carrier further comprises at least one article retaining structure having a plurality of engagement tabs stamped from the engagement panel. The carrier further comprises a gusseted end closure structure for forming a rigid hinge connection along at least one of an upper end edge and a lower end edge of at least one end of the tubular structure. The gusseted end closure structure includes a gusset provided by a pair of hinge panels connecting between a first end flap hingedly connected to the cover panel and a second end flap hingedly connected to the engagement panel. The pair of hinge panels are recessed relative to at least one end edge of the first end flap and the second end flap.

[0032] Optionally, the article retaining structure includes a friction flap coupled to the engagement panel by at least one connecting tab.

[0033] Optionally, a pair of hinge panels are hingedly connected to a portion of the second end flap that is disposed substantially parallel to at least one of the cover panel and the engagement panel.

[0034] Optionally, at least one of the pair of hinge panels is defined, at least in part, by a pair of differently disposed fold lines.

[0035] Optionally, at least one of the pair of hinge panels is defined, at least in part, by a pair of parallel fold lines.

[0036] Optionally, the cover panel comprises a pair of cover panel portions, each of which is hingedly connected to the mating panel by a respective corresponding side panel.

[0037] A fifth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank includes panels for forming spaced apart panels including an engagement panel, a cover panel, and a side panel hinged therebetween. The blank further includes at least one article retention structure having an annular row of engagement tabs and a friction flap. The friction flap is surrounded by the annular row of engagement tabs. The friction flap is coupled to the engagement panel by at least one connection tab. The at least one connection tab is disposed near a fold line between the engagement panel and the side or end panel.

[0038] Optionally, the side panels are arranged to engage the at least one connection tab in a set-up condition to press the at least one connection tab against an item in the item holding structure.

[0039] A sixth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank includes panels for forming spaced apart panels including an upper panel and a lower panel. The blank includes a pair of locking tabs each formed from the upper panel and hinged to the upper panel by respective fold lines. The fold lines are obliquely oriented relative to side edges of the top panel. The locking tabs extend in opposite directions from respective fold lines.

[0040] A seventh aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises panels for forming spaced apart panels including an engagement panel, a cover panel, and side panels hinged therebetween. The blank comprises at least one article retaining structure having a plurality of engagement tabs. The blank further comprises an end closure structure including an end panel and a top end flap hinged thereto. The end closure structure comprises an article engaging mechanism including a cut line at least partially formed in the end panel. The cut line has a first width dimension and defines an engagement edge of the end panel. The end panel in the region of the engagement edge is positioned to bear against at least one of the plurality of engagement tabs of an adjacently disposed article retaining structure. At least one of the plurality of engagement tabs has an engagement edge having a second width dimension. The second width dimension is less than the first width dimension.

[0041] An eighth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises panels for forming a tubular structure including a cover panel, an engagement panel, and a pair of opposing side panels. The blank further comprises at least one article retaining structure having a plurality of engagement tabs punched from the engagement panel, and a gusseted end closure structure forming a rigid hinge connection along at least one of a top end edge and a bottom end edge of at least one end of the tubular structure. The gusseted end closure structure comprises a gusset provided by a pair of hinge panels connecting between a first end flap hinged to the cover panel and a second end flap hinged to the engagement panel. The pair of hinge panels are recessed relative to at least one end edge of the first end flap and the second end flap.

[0042] A ninth aspect of the present invention provides a top-engagement article carrier for engaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises an engagement panel including an article retention structure and a cover panel disposed on and spaced from the engagement panel. The cover panel comprises a first opening defined at least in part by a first locking tab and a second opening defined at least in part by a second locking tab. The first opening is spaced from the second opening. The first locking tab is hinged to the cover panel by a first fold line and the second locking tab is hinged to the cover panel by a second fold line. The first fold line and the second fold line are each obliquely oriented relative to a side edge of the cover panel. The first fold line is divergently disposed relative to the second fold line.

[0043] Optionally, the first fold line is perpendicular to the second fold line.

[0044] Optionally, the cover panel is a composite panel formed from a pair of panels disposed in at least partial overlapping relationship with one another.

[0045] Optionally, one of the pair of panels includes a first locking tab and a second locking tab.

[0046] Optionally, the other of the pair of panels includes a receiving opening for receiving a corresponding one of the first and second locking tabs.

[0047] Optionally, each receiving opening is defined, at least in part, by a receiving tab hinged to the other of the pair of panels by a corresponding one of the pair of fold lines, a first one of the pair of fold lines being divergently disposed relative to a second one of the pair of fold lines.

[0048] Optionally, each of the pair of fold lines is oriented obliquely relative to a side edge of the other of the pair of panels.

[0049] A tenth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a plurality of panels for forming an engagement panel including an article retaining structure, and a cover panel configured to be disposed on and spaced apart from the engagement panel. The cover panel comprises a first opening defined at least in part by a first locking tab and a second opening defined at least in part by a second locking tab. The first opening is spaced apart from the second opening. The first locking tab is hingedly connected to the cover panel by a first fold line and the second locking tab is hingedly connected to the cover panel by a second fold line. The first fold line and the second fold line are each obliquely oriented relative to a side edge of the cover panel. The first fold line is divergently disposed relative to the second fold line.

[0050] An eleventh aspect of the present invention provides an article carrier and a blank for forming the article carrier, the article carrier having an engagement panel including two or more article retaining structures. The engagement panel has a pair of opposing side edges and a pair of end edges. Each of the two or more article retaining structures has an article receiving opening including an annular array of engagement teeth. Each of the two or more article retaining structures includes a friction flap surrounded by the annular array of engagement teeth. Each friction flap is coupled to the engagement panel by at least one connection tab. The at least one connection tab of the two or more article retaining structures is positioned about the periphery of the respective article receiving opening such that the friction flaps of the two or more article retaining structures all fold in the same direction.

[0051] Optionally, the friction flaps of two or more of the article retention structures are folded toward the same side or end edge of the engagement panel.

[0052] Optionally, the engagement panel has a longitudinal axis y and a transverse axis x, and the two or more item retaining structures are arranged in a linear fashion parallel to one of the longitudinal axis y and the transverse axis x.

[0053] Optionally, the at least one connection tab is disposed at a leading edge of the article receiving opening of each of the two or more article retaining structures when transported through the packaging machine.

[0054] A twelfth aspect of the present invention provides an article carrier and a blank for forming the article carrier, the article carrier having an engagement panel including two or more article retaining structures. Each of the two or more article retaining structures has an article receiving opening including an annular array of engagement teeth. Each of the two or more article retaining structures includes a friction flap surrounded by the annular array of engagement teeth. Each friction flap is coupled to the engagement panel by at least one connection tab and includes a proximal end and a distal end, the distal end being disposed opposite the proximal end. The proximal end is defined by the at least one connection tab. A proximal end of a first friction flap that is one of the two or more article retaining structures is disposed adjacent a distal end of a second friction flap that is one of the two or more article retaining structures.

[0055] The proximal end is a hinged end and the distal end is a free end without a hinge.

[0056] A thirteenth aspect of the invention provides an article carrier and a blank for forming the article carrier, the article carrier having an engagement panel including two or more article retaining structures, each of the two or more article retaining structures having an article receiving opening including an annular array of engagement teeth, at least one of the annular array of engagement teeth being defined in part by a pair of cut lines, each of the pair of cut lines terminating in a curved cut, the curved cuts being arranged to curve toward one another and converging toward one another as they move away from the friction flap, with an end of one of the pair of cut lines extending toward an end of another of the pair of cut lines.

[0057] A fourteenth aspect of the present invention provides an article carrier and a blank for forming the same, the article carrier having an engagement panel including two or more article retaining structures. Each of the two or more article retaining structures has an article receiving opening including an annular array of engagement teeth. At least one of the annular array of engagement teeth is defined in part by a cut line terminating in a curvilinear cut and in part by a recess. The recess interrupts the annular array of engagement teeth. The curvilinear cut is arranged to curve toward the recess and converge toward the recess as it moves away from the friction flap.

[0058] Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the particular embodiments illustrated in the drawings and described below.

[0059] Within the scope of this application, it is contemplated or intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features, and alternatives described in the preceding paragraphs, claims, and / or in the following description and drawings may be considered or employed independently or in any combination thereof.

[0060] Features or elements described in relation to or in connection with one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments, unless there is an incompatibility of features. One or more features or elements of one embodiment may be incorporated or combined with any of the other embodiments disclosed herein, and features or elements extracted from one of the above-described embodiments may be included in addition to or instead of one or more features or elements of the other embodiments described above.

[0061] A feature or combination of features of an embodiment disclosed herein may be extracted independently of other features of that embodiment, or a feature or combination of features of an embodiment may be omitted from that embodiment. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0062] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0063] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of a blank for forming a carrier according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the blank in FIG. [Diagram 3] 2 is an enlarged plan view of another portion of the blank of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 1. [Figure 4B] FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing a portion of the carrier of FIG. 3. [Diagram 5] 2 illustrates steps in constructing a package from the blank of FIG. 1; [Figure 6] 2 illustrates steps in constructing a package from the blank of FIG. 1; [Figure 7] 2 illustrates steps in constructing a package from the blank of FIG. 1; [Figure 8] 2 illustrates steps in constructing a package from the blank of FIG. 1; [Figure 9] FIG. 11 is a top plan view of a blank for forming a carrier according to a second embodiment. [Figure 9B] 10 is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the blank in FIG. 9. FIG. [Figure 10] 10 shows steps in constructing a package from the blank of FIG. 9. [Figure 11] FIG. 13 is a top plan view of a blank for forming a carrier according to a third embodiment. [Figure 12] 12 is a top perspective view of a portion of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 11. FIG. [Figure 13] 12 is a top perspective view of a portion of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 11. FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a top plan view of a blank for forming a carrier according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 15] 15 is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the blank in FIG. 14. FIG. [Figure 16] 15 is an enlarged plan view of another portion of the blank of FIG. 14. FIG. [Figure 17] FIG. 13 is a top plan view of a blank for forming a carrier according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 17B] FIG. 18 is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the blank in FIG. 17. [Figure 18] 18 shows steps in constructing a package from the blank of FIG. 17. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0064] Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of packages, blanks, and carriers are disclosed herein. It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of ways to implement certain aspects of the invention, and are not an exhaustive list of all ways in which the invention can be embodied. The term "exemplary" as used herein is used broadly to refer to embodiments that serve as illustrations, specimens, models, or patterns. Indeed, it will be understood that the packages, blanks, and carriers described herein may be embodied in a variety of alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale, and some features may be exaggerated or reduced in size to show details of particular components. Well-known components, materials, or methods have not necessarily been described in detail so as not to obscure the disclosure. Specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims, as well as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art how to utilize the invention in various ways.

[0065] Referring to Figure 1, there is shown a plan view of a blank 10 from which a carton or carrier 90 can be formed for containing and carrying a group of primary products (hereafter referred to as items B) such as, but not limited to, bottles and cans, as shown in Figure 4. The blank 10 forms a secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package.

[0066] 9, 11, 14 and 17 show alternative blanks 110, 210, 310, 410 for forming cartons or carriers 190, 290, 490 (shown in FIGS. 10, 12 and 18 respectively) for containing and carrying a primary product group (hereinafter referred to as Article B) such as, but not limited to, bottles and cans.

[0067] In the embodiments detailed herein, the terms "carton" and "carrier" refer to a container for containing and carrying an article, such as a primary product container, for non-limiting purposes of describing various features of the present invention. It is envisioned that the teachings of the present invention are applicable 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.

[0068] The blanks 10, 110, 210, 310, 410 are formed from sheets of a suitable substrate. It should be understood that the term "suitable substrate" as used herein may include any type of foldable sheet material, such as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, etc. It should be recognized that one or more blanks may be used where appropriate, for example, to provide a carrier structure, as described in more detail below.

[0069] The packaging structures or cartons 90, 190, 290, 490 described herein may be formed from sheet materials such as paperboard that are made or coated with materials to enhance their strength. An example of such sheet materials is tear-resistant NATRALOCK® paperboard manufactured by WestRock Company. It should be noted that tear-resistant materials may be provided in multiple layers to improve the 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 that faces the outside of the finished package may be particularly smooth and may have a coating or other surface treatment, such as a clay coating to provide good printability, while the surface of the sheet material that faces the inside may be coated, layered, treated, or otherwise prepared to have one or more properties, such as tear resistance, good adhesion, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties.

[0070] In the illustrated embodiment, the blanks 10, 110, 210, 310, 410 are configured to form a carton or carrier 90, 190, 290, 490 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary items B. In the illustrated embodiment, the arrangement is a 2 x 3 matrix or array. In the illustrated embodiment, two rows of three items B are provided, where items B are 330 ml beverage cans.

[0071] Alternatively, blanks 10, 110, 210, 310, 410 may be configured to form carriers for packaging other types, numbers, sizes of articles and / or for packaging articles in different arrangements or configurations.

[0072] Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown a blank 10 which includes a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, including a main panel 12 for forming the lower wall or mating panel of a carrier 90 (see FIG. 4).

[0073] A first side panel 14 is hingedly connected to a first side of the main panel 12 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 13. A first top or cover panel 18 is hingedly connected to the first side panel 14 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 17.

[0074] A second side panel 16 is hingedly connected to a second side of the main panel 12 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 15. A second top or cover panel 20 is hingedly connected to the second side panel 16 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 19.

[0075] The first top panel 18, the second top panel 20, the first side panel 14 and the second side panel 16, and the main panel 12 form a tubular structure. Each end of the tubular structure is closed by an end closure structure. The first end closure structure includes a first end panel 24 hingedly connected to a first end of the main panel 12 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 25. A first top end flap 26 is hingedly connected to the first end panel 24 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 27.

[0076] The first anchor flap 22A is hinged to the first end of the first side panel 18 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 23A. The first anchor flap 22A is hinged to the first top end flap 26 by a pair of hinge panels 28A, 30A. The pair of hinge panels 28A, 30A form a gusset. As shown in FIG. 2, the first connection panel 28A is hinged to the first anchor flap 22A by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 29A. The second connection panel 30A is hinged to the first connection panel 28A by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 31A. The second connection panel 30A is hinged to the first top end flap 26 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 41A.

[0077] The first connecting panel 28A and the second connecting panel 30A are inset relative to the first anchor flap 22A and / or the first top end flap 26. As best shown in FIG. 2, a recess R is stamped out from an end edge of the blank 10.

[0078] The second anchor flap 22B is hinged to the first end of the second side panel 20 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 23B. The second anchor flap 22B is hinged to the first top end flap 26 by a pair of hinge panels 28B, 30B forming a second gusset. The third connection panel 28B is hinged to the second anchor flap 22B by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The fourth connection panel 30B is hinged to the third connection panel 28B by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The fourth connection panel 30B is hinged to the first top end flap 26 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line.

[0079] The first end panel 24 is separated from each of the first and second anchor flaps 22A and 22B by an opening A10. The opening A10 separates each of the pair of hinge panels 28A / 30A, 28B / 30B from each of the first and second side panels 14 and 16.

[0080] The second end closure structure includes a second end panel 34 hingedly connected to a second end of the main panel 12 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 35. A second top end flap 36 is hingedly connected to the second end panel 34 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 37.

[0081] The third anchor flap 32A is hinged to the second end of the first side panel 18 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 33A. The third anchor flap 32A is hinged to the second top end flap 36 by a pair of hinge panels 38A, 40A forming a third gusset. The fifth connection panel 38A is hinged to the third anchor flap 32A by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The sixth connection panel 40A is hinged to the fifth connection panel 38A by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The sixth connection panel 40A is hinged to the second top end flap 36 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line.

[0082] The fourth anchor flap 32B is hinged to the second end of the second side panel 20 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 33B. The fourth anchor flap 32B is hinged to the second top end flap 36 by a pair of hinge panels 38B, 40B forming a fourth gusset. The seventh connection panel 38B is hinged to the fourth anchor flap 32B by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The eighth connection panel 40B is hinged to the seventh connection panel 38B by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The eighth connection panel 40B is hinged to the second top end flap 36 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line.

[0083] The second end panel 34 is separated from each of the third and fourth anchor flaps 32A and 32B by an opening A10. The opening A10 separates each of the pairs of hinge panels 38A / 40A, 38B / 40B from each of the first and second side panels 14 and 16.

[0084] The main panel 12 of the blank 10 includes at least one item retaining structure RT1, RT2. The main panel 12 includes a plurality of item retaining structures RT1, RT2, specifically, six item retaining structures RT1, RT2 arranged in a 2×3 matrix or array. Each of the item retaining structures RT1, RT2 includes an opening or aperture A1, A2.

[0085] The item retaining structures RT1, RT2 in the embodiment of FIG. 1 take the form of a plurality of annularly arranged tines or tabs 52, 54, 56, 58 which form part of the item receiving opening.

[0086] A plurality of tines 52, 54, 56, 58 are provided by the main panel 12. Each of the tines 52, 54, 56, 58 includes a hinge connection. The hinge connection may be defined by a plurality of cut lines 53, 55. The plurality of cut lines 53, 55 may be arranged as a circular series of cuts around the article receiving opening.

[0087] The multiple cut lines 53, 55 may define or approximate a portion of a circle.

[0088] Each of the teeth 52, 54, 56, 58 includes an engagement edge E1, E2 (see FIGS. 2 and 3) that faces a hinged edge. The engagement edge E1, E2 is defined by a straight portion of a cut line that defines the first opening A1, the friction flap 50, or the second opening A2. Each engagement edge E1, E2 may define a portion of a polygon. The illustrated embodiment includes thirteen teeth 52, 54, 56, 58 that define a portion of a polygon. Each tooth 52, 54, 56, 58 includes a pair of side edges that are defined by cuts 51, 57 that extend radially outward from a respective vertex of the polygon, i.e., a respective vertex between a pair of adjacent straight portions of the cuts that define a portion of the polygon. The cuts 51, 57 are divergently disposed relative to one another to define an angle therebetween.

[0089] The article retaining structures RT1, RT2 include a plurality of first circumferential cut lines 53. Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 53 is aligned with one of the radial cut lines 51 such that one of the radial cut lines 51, or a notional extension thereof, bisects each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 53.

[0090] Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 53 is spaced from and bisects one of the radial cut lines 51 so as to define a connecting nick or bridge portion between a pair of adjacently disposed teeth 52, 56, 58.

[0091] Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 53 may be a straight line.

[0092] The article retention structures RT1, RT2 include a plurality of second circumferential cut lines 55. Each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 55 is disposed between and spaced apart from a pair of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 53 to define a pair of connecting notches or bridge portions between the respective teeth 52, 56, 58 and the main panel 12. The pair of connecting notches or bridge portions provides a hinged or folding connection between the respective teeth 52, 56, 58 and the main panel 12.

[0093] Each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 55 may be straight.

[0094] In another embodiment, each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 53 may be arcuate or curved. In some embodiments, each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 55 may be arcuate or curved.

[0095] The blank 10 includes four end article retaining structures RT1, each with a first opening A1, and two intermediate article retaining structures RT2, each with a second opening A2.

[0096] The endmost item retaining structure RT1 has an item receiving opening defined in the main panel 12 or partially defined by a first opening A1 punched out from the main panel 12 and partially defined by a cover or friction flap 50.

[0097] The intermediate item retaining structure RT2 includes an item receiving opening defined in the main panel 12 or partially defined by a second opening A2 punched out from the main panel 12.

[0098] The endmost article retention structure RT1 and the intermediate article retention structure RT2 each include a plurality of teeth or tabs 52, 54, 56, 58, best seen in Figures 2 and 3. In the endmost article retention structure RT1, the plurality of teeth or tabs 52, 54, 56, 58 are arranged in an annular array around the first opening A1 and the friction flap 50. In the intermediate article retention structure RT2, the plurality of teeth or tabs 52, 54, 56, 58 are arranged in an annular array around the second opening A2.

[0099] The plurality of teeth 52, 54, 56, 58 of the endmost article retaining structure RT1 are interrupted by a first recess or notch C1, as shown in Figure 2. The first recess C1 is provided at a circumferential position of the first opening A1 located closest to the adjacent endmost article retaining structure RT1, and the first recess C1 extends from the first opening A1 towards the first opening A1 of the endmost article retaining structure RT1.

[0100] The plurality of teeth 52, 54, 56, 58 of the endmost article retaining structure RT1 are interrupted by a second recess or notch C2. The second recess C2 is provided at a circumferential position of the article receiving opening located closest to the adjacent intermediate article retaining structure RT2. The second recess C2 extends from the article receiving opening toward the adjacent intermediate article retaining structure RT2. The second recess C2 is at least partially defined by a second peripheral tab T2 extending from or integral with the friction flap 50.

[0101] The endmost article retaining structure RT1 includes a plurality of first teeth or engagement tabs 52 for supporting or suspending an article B thereon.

[0102] The endmost article retaining structure RT1 includes a second tooth or engagement tab 54 located near the hinge connection between the engagement panel 12 and each of the first and second end panels 24, 34. The second tooth 54 may be integral with the engagement panel 12, i.e., there is no fold line 53, 55 or hinge connection to the engagement panel 12. The second tooth 54 is sufficiently close to one of the fold lines 25, 35 that hinge the first and second end panels 24, 34 to the engagement panel 12 that each one of the fold lines 25, 35 effectively serves as a hinge connection to the second tooth 54. The second tooth 54 may be defined by a cut 57 that includes a "J" or "C" shaped cut that is close to one of the fold lines 25, 35. A portion of the "J" or "C" shaped cut may lie on an imaginary circle defined by the multiple cut lines 53, 55. The second tooth 54 is disposed on an opposite side of the second recess C2.

[0103] The endmost article retaining structure RT1 includes a third tine or tab 50A, also referred to herein as a connection tab 50A, disposed near the hinge connection between the engagement panel 12 and each of the first and second side panels 14 and 16. The third tab 50A is coupled to or integral with the friction flap 50. The third tine or tab 50A may be defined in part by a cut line 51A. The cut line 51A may be oriented obliquely relative to each of the fold lines 13, 15 that hinge the first and second side panels 14 and 16 to the main panel 12. The cut lines 51A may be positioned such that they are oriented divergently relative to each other as they approach the friction flap 50. In this manner, the portion of the third tab 50A proximate the friction flap 50 is wider than the portion of the third tab 50A proximate the first and second side panels 14 and 16, respectively. The third tab 50A may be defined, at least in part, by a cut line 59 that separates a portion of the third tab 50A from the friction flap 50. The cut line 59 may be non-linear and may be substantially "U" shaped to define the first peripheral tab T1. The first peripheral tab T1 may be stamped, at least in part, from the material forming the third tab 50A such that the first peripheral tab T1 extends beyond the hinge connection between the third tab 50A and the friction flap 50 (as best shown in FIG. 5). The third tooth 50A is disposed opposite the first recess C1.

[0104] In the folded or assembled carrier 90, the first peripheral tab T1 may engage or contact the side panels 14, 16, which apply a force to the first peripheral tab T1, urging the third tab 50A towards or against the article B.

[0105] Partial teeth or tabs 58 may be provided on either side of third tooth or tab 50A.

[0106] Each of the first and second recesses C1, C2 may be provided with a fourth tooth or tab 56. The fourth tooth or tab 56 may occupy a greater circumferential distance than the first tooth 52.

[0107] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 is similar in structure to the endmost article retaining structure RT1, despite the omission of the cover or friction flap 50. In an alternative embodiment, the intermediate article retaining structure RT2 may include a cover or friction flap 50 similar to the endmost article retaining structure RT1. The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 does not include the partial teeth 58 or the connection tabs 50A.

[0108] The intermediate article retaining structure RT2 includes a plurality of first teeth or engagement tabs 52 for supporting or suspending an article B thereon.

[0109] The intermediate article retention structure RT2 includes a second tooth or engagement tab 54 disposed near the hinge connection between the engagement panel 12 and each of the first and second side panels 14, 16. The second tooth 54 may be integral with the engagement panel 12, i.e., there is no fold line 53, 55 or hinge connection to the engagement panel 12. The second tooth 54 is sufficiently close to one of the fold lines 13, 15 that hinge-connect the first and second side panels 14, 16 to the engagement panel 12 that the corresponding one of the fold lines 13, 15 effectively serves as a hinge connection to the second tooth 54. The second tooth 54 may be defined by a cut 57 that includes a "J" or "C" shaped cut proximate one of the fold lines 25, 35. A portion of the "J" or "C" shaped cut may lie on an imaginary circle defined by the multiple cut lines 53, 55.

[0110] The plurality of teeth 52, 54, 56 of the intermediate article retaining structure RT2 are interrupted by a first recess or notch C1, as shown in Figure 3. The first recess C1 is provided at a circumferential position of the second opening A2 located closest to the adjacent intermediate article retaining structure RT2. The first recess C1 extends from the second opening A2 towards the second opening A2 of the intermediate article retaining structure RT2, and the second tooth 54 is located on the opposite side of the first recess C1.

[0111] The plurality of teeth 52, 54, 56, 58 of the intermediate article retaining structure RT2 are interrupted by a second recess or cutout C2 and a third recess or cutout C3. The second recess C2 is provided on the opposite side of the third recess C3. The second recess or cutout C2 and the third recess or cutout C3 are provided at positions on the circumference of the article receiving opening located closest to each of the adjacent endmost article retaining structures RT1. The second recess C2 extends from the article receiving opening toward the first adjacent article retaining structure RT1. The third recess C3 extends from the article receiving opening toward the second adjacent article retaining structure RT1.

[0112] Each of the first, second and third recesses C1, C2 and C3 may be provided with a fourth tooth or tab 56. The fourth tooth or tab 56 may occupy a greater circumferential distance than the first tooth 52.

[0113] The main panel 12 includes a handle structure H. The handle structure H may include at least one handle opening. In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 10 includes two handle openings. Each handle opening is defined in or punched out of an area of ​​the main panel 12 that is centrally located between the four openings A1, A2 arranged in pairs of two adjacent openings A1, A2. Each handle opening is defined, at least in part, by one or more handle flaps 70, 72. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle opening is defined by a pair of handle flaps 70, 72. The pair of handle flaps 70, 72 includes a first major handle flap 70 and a second minor handle flap 72, the minor handle flap 72 being smaller than the major handle flap 70. The first handle flap 70 is hinged to the main panel 12 by a first fold line 71, and the second handle flap 72 is hinged to the main panel 12 by a second fold line 73. The handle opening may be substantially square or diamond shaped. The second fold line 73 may be disposed adjacent to the first fold line 71 and separated from the first fold line 71 by an arcuate cut line that defines rounded corners of the handle opening.

[0114] The first top panel 18 and the second top panel 20 are disposed to at least partially overlap one another. The overlapping portions of the first top panel 18 and the second top panel 20 are provided with a locking structure for locking the first top panel 18 and the second top panel 20 together. The locking structure interfaces with a handle opening in the main panel 12 to secure the first top panel 18 and the second top panel 20 to the main panel 12.

[0115] The locking structure includes at least one receiver LR1, LR2 in the form of an opening in the first top panel 18. The first top panel 18 includes a plurality of openings, more specifically two openings, although in other embodiments, one or more openings may be provided. Each opening is positioned to vertically register or align with a handle opening provided in the main panel 12. The openings are defined by at least one tab 64, 66 (also referred to herein as a female tab or a receiving tab). In the illustrated embodiment, each opening is defined by a single tab 64, 66.

[0116] The first receiving tab 64 is hinged to the first top panel 18 by a first hinge connection in the form of a first fold line 65 and forms part of the first receiver LR1. The second receiving tab 66 is hinged to the first top panel 18 by a second hinge connection in the form of a second fold line 67 and forms part of the second receiver LR2. The second receiving tab 66 is hinged to the first top panel 18 opposite the first receiving tab 64. The fold lines 65, 67 are obliquely oriented with respect to a free side edge SE1 of the first top panel 18. The fold lines 65, 67 are obliquely oriented with respect to a tubular axis of a tubular structure formed by at least the first top panel 18, the second top panel 20, the first side panel 14 and the second side panel 16, and the main panel 12. In FIG. 1 , the fold line 17 hinges the first top panel 18 to the first side panel 14 extends along the tubular axis. As such, the fold lines 65, 67 are oriented obliquely relative to the fold line 17. Each handle opening may include a fold line or fold line 69 that circumscribes a tab 64, 66. The fold line is shaped to be complementary to, i.e., follows the contours of, the tabs 64, 66.

[0117] The locking structure includes at least one locking element L1, L2 received in the receiver LR1, LR2. The locking elements L1, L2 include tabs 60, 62 stamped from the second top panel 20, and in the illustrated embodiment include two tabs 60, 62 each positioned for engagement with one of the receiver openings and a respective one of the handle openings. Each tab 60, 62 is hingedly connected to the second top panel 20 by a corresponding hinge connection 61, 63.

[0118] The tabs 60, 62 may be substantially "arrowhead" shaped to define a pair of opposing shoulders or detents for securely engaging the handle openings and / or receivers LR1, LR2.

[0119] Each locking element L1, L2 is positioned to vertically align or register with a handle opening in the main panel 12 and one of the receiving openings in the first top panel 18. Each locking element L1, L2 is defined by one of two tabs 60, 62 (also referred to herein as male tabs or locking tabs). In the illustrated embodiment, each locking element L1, L2 is defined by one locking tab 60, 62.

[0120] The first locking tab 60 is hinged to the second top panel 20 by a first hinge connection in the form of a first fold line 61 and forms part of the first locking element L1. The second locking tab 62 is hinged to the second top panel 20 by a second hinge connection in the form of a second fold line 63 and forms part of the second locking element L2. The second locking tab 66 is hinged to the second top panel 20 opposite the first locking tab 64. The fold lines 61, 63 are obliquely oriented with respect to the tubular axis of the tubular structure formed by at least the first top panel 18, the second top panel 20, the first side panel 14 and the second side panel 16, and the main panel 12. In FIG. 1, the free side edge SE2 of the second top panel 20 and the fold line 19 are each parallel to the tubular axis. Thus, the fold lines 61 , 63 are oriented obliquely relative to either the free side edge SE 2 or the fold line 19 that hinges the second top panel 20 to the second side panel 16 .

[0121] The first and second end closure structures may include at least one article engaging structure. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first and second end closure structures includes a pair of article engaging structures. Each article engaging structure is defined, at least in part, by a cut line 3. The cut line 3 may be non-linear. In the illustrated embodiment, the cut line 3 is substantially "C" shaped or "U" shaped. The cut line 3 is stamped or defined from each of the first and second end panels 24, 34. The cut line 3 may interrupt each of the fold lines 27, 37 that hinge the top end flaps 26, 36 to one of the first and second end panels 24, 34. The cut line 3 defines, at least in part, a cover tab T3 that is stamped or formed from material that forms a part of either the first and second end panels 24, 34. The cover tab T3 is integral with either the first top end flap 26 or the second top end flap 36.

[0122] In the folded state, the cut line 3 partially forms or defines an article engaging opening OP (see Figures 4 and 4B). The opening engages or receives a portion of an article B, which may include a flange or chime F that is partially received in the article engaging opening OP.

[0123] The cut line 3 defines an edge E3 of the article engaging opening OP. The cut line 3, edge E3, or article engaging opening OP includes a linear dimension or width l1. The width l1 is greater than the width or linear dimension l2 of the engaging edge E1 of the second tooth 54. In this manner, the portion of the end panel 24, 34 strengthens, reinforces, or secures the second tooth 54 to the article B. The second tooth 54 is supported or reinforced along its entire engaging edge E1 by said portion of the end panel 24, 34.

[0124] Each article engaging structure may increase the grip of the article carrier 90 on the engaging article B, increasing friction between the article carrier 90 and the article B.

[0125] When constructing a carrier 90 from the blank 10, the blank 10 may be formed into an assembled carrier 90 as shown in FIG.

[0126] The blank 10 is applied to the group of articles B. The blank 10 is lowered relative to the group of articles B. Each article retaining structure RT1, RT2 of the blank 10 is aligned with each article B in the group. A portion of the article B passes through the main panel 12. Toothed regions of the main panel 12 around each article retaining structure RT1, RT2 may be folded out of the plane of the main panel 12.

[0127] Each toothed region of the main panel 12 may be folded around one of the articles B contained in each of the article retaining structures RT1, RT2.

[0128] The engaging edges of the teeth 52, 54, 56, 58 engage under the protrusion. The protrusion may be located around the neck or chime (which may provide the flange F) of the article B. If the article B is a can, the protrusion may be provided by an end seam of the can. In other embodiments, it may be provided by a raised or undercut shape of the article B, or by an end closure of the article B, such as, but not limited to, a crown cork or closure. In this manner, the engaging edges grip or hold the article B, preventing or inhibiting unintentional separation of the article B from the main panel 12.

[0129] The friction flap 50 is offset from the plane of the main panel 12 such that each third tine 50A is folded out of the plane of the main panel 12. The friction flap 50 is at least partially folded over the upper end of the article B relative to the third tine 50A to which it is connected, as shown in Figure 7. The first peripheral tab T1 and the second peripheral tab T2 are disposed on or above a rim or chime of the article B, as best shown in Figure 7.

[0130] As shown in FIG. 5, the blank 10 is partially folded about fold lines 13, 15 so that the first side panel 14 and the second side panel 16 are in a non-coplanar relationship with the main panel 12.

[0131] The blank 10 is folded about fold lines 23A, 23B, 33A, 33B such that the first anchor flap 22A, the second anchor flap 22B, the third anchor flap 32A, and the fourth anchor flap 32B are in a substantially face to face relationship with the first side panel 14 or the second side panel 16 to which they are hinged.

[0132] 8, the blank 10 is folded about fold lines 25, 35 such that the first end panel 24 and the second end panel 34 are in at least a substantially perpendicular relationship to the main panel 12. In some embodiments, the first end panel 24 and the second end panel 34 may be folded and skewed at an angle greater than 90°, as shown in FIG.

[0133] The blank 10 is folded about fold lines 27, 37 such that the first and second top end flaps 26, 36 are folded against the first and second end panels 24, 34, respectively, to which they are hinged.

[0134] The first top end flap 26 and the second top end flap 36 may be folded over an item B or the upper end of item B disposed adjacent the first and second ends of the main panel 12 .

[0135] The first top end flap 26 and the second top end flap 36 may be folded to be substantially parallel to the main panel 12 .

[0136] When the first anchor flap 22A, the second anchor flap 22B, the third anchor flap 32A, and the fourth anchor flap 32B are folded into a substantially face-contacting relationship with the first side panel 14 and the second side panel 16, respectively, the first end panel 24 and the second end panel 34, as well as the first top end flap 26 and the second top end flap 36, may be automatically folded.

[0137] As shown in FIG. 4B, a portion of article B, ie, flange, chime or rim F, is received within article engaging openings OP in first end panel 24 and second end panel 34. As shown in FIG.

[0138] The blank 10 is folded about fold lines 13 , 15 so that the first side panel 14 and the second side panel 16 are in a generally perpendicular relationship to the main panel 12 .

[0139] The recesses R are positioned to avoid collision between the connecting panels 28A, 38A, 28B, 30B, 338A, 40A, 38B, 40B and the friction flaps 50 and / or third teeth 50A when the first side panel 14 and the second side panel 16 are folded over the top of the group of articles, as best shown in Figures 5 and 6.

[0140] The connecting panels 28A, 38A, 28B, 30B, 338A, 40A, 38B, 40B are folded into a face-to-face relationship with the connecting panels 28A, 38A, 28B, 30B, 338A, 40A, 38B, 40B that are hingedly connected thereto.

[0141] Blank 10 is folded about fold line 17 to fold first top panel 18 over the top of article B. Blank 10 is folded about fold line 19 to fold second top panel 20 over the top of article B in overlapping relationship with first top panel 18 to form composite top panel 18 / 20.

[0142] The locking tabs 60, 62 are offset downwardly from the plane of the second top panel 20 and pass through corresponding receiving openings such that the receiving tabs 64, 66 are offset from the plane of the first top panel 18.

[0143] The locking tabs 60, 62 and the first and second receiving tabs 64, 66 may engage around the periphery of a corresponding handle opening. The shoulders of the locking tabs 60, 62 may engage the edges of the corresponding openings defined by the first and second receiving tabs 64, 66 in the first top panel 318.

[0144] At least one of the handle tabs 70, 72 may engage with the locking tabs 60, 62 and / or the receiving tabs 64, 66 to secure the tabs 60, 62, 64, 66 within the handle opening.

[0145] The locking tabs 60, 62 and / or the receiving tabs 64, 66 may function as spacers between the composite top panel 18 / 20 and the main panel 12. The locking tabs 60, 62 may engage the main panel 12 around the perimeter of the handle opening and / or along the underside of the main panel 12, thereby functioning as tension members to maintain the spacing between the main panel 12 and the composite top panel 18 / 20 and prevent the spacing from widening. Additionally, the receiving tabs 64, 66 and / or the locking tabs 60, 62 may engage or abut the inside or top surface of the main panel 12, thereby providing reinforcement between the composite top panel 18 / 20 and the main panel 12 to help maintain the spacing therebetween and prevent the spacing from narrowing. Thus, at least a portion of the locking tabs 60, 62 and / or at least a portion of the one or more receiving tabs 64, 66 may be disposed between the first top panel 18 and the main panel 12 to maintain the spacing therebetween.

[0146] The locking tabs 60, 62 also provide cushioning tabs for increased comfort when carrying the package 90 by inserting one or more fingers through the openings in the composite top panel 18 / 20 and main panel 12.

[0147] The first receiving tab 64 and the second receiving tab 66 may extend through the handle opening when folded.

[0148] The locking tabs 60, 62 may pass through respective ones of the handle openings to engage the main panel 12. A shoulder of the locking tabs 60, 62 engages the underside of the main panel, which is a second side of the main panel 12 opposite the first side in which the locking tabs 60, 62 are received.

[0149] One or both of the receiving tabs 64, 66 and / or the handle tabs 70, 72 may provide a biasing mechanism, whereby the tabs 64, 66, 70, 72 have a natural or inherent tendency to return to the deployed state, which may provide or complement a resilient bias for the locking tabs 60, 62 to return to the deployed state.

[0150] The first and second top panels 18 and 20, along with the first and second top end flaps 26 and 36, can apply a force or pressure to the friction flap 50, peripheral tabs T1, T2. The first and second top panels 18 and 20 can also apply a force or pressure to the cover tab T3. This force is transferred to the article B, increasing the friction between the carrier 90 and the article B. In this manner, the article B is maintained in a particular or desired orientation relative to the article carrier 90. The increased grip of the article carrier 90 on the article B prevents or inhibits the article B from moving out of the desired orientation.

[0151] The article engaging structures of the end panels 24, 34 also contribute to improved security of the article B by further increasing friction between the carrier 90 and the article B.

[0152] 9, 9B and 10, another embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In the illustrated second embodiment, like numerals have been used, where possible, to designate like parts, but the prefix "100" has been added to indicate that these features belong to the second embodiment. Because the alternative embodiment has much in common with the embodiment of Figures 1-8, only the differences from the embodiment shown in Figures 1-8 will be described in more detail.

[0153] FIG. 9 shows a blank 110 with a number of panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120 including a main panel 112 for forming the lower wall or mating panel of a carrier 190 (see FIG. 10).

[0154] A first side panel 114 is hingedly connected to a first side of the main panel 112 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 113. A first top or cover panel 118 is hingedly connected to the first side panel 114 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 117.

[0155] A second side panel 116 is hingedly connected to a second side of the main panel 112 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 115. A second top or cover panel 120 is hingedly connected to the second side panel 116 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 119.

[0156] Blank 110 is substantially similar to blank 10 of FIG. 1, except that endmost article retaining structure RT1 includes a modified friction flap 150. Friction flap 150 is coupled to main panel 112 by a pair of connecting tabs 150B. The pair of connecting tabs 150B are spaced apart by an article engaging tab 150C. Article engaging tab 150C is defined at least in part by cut line 159. Cut line 159 is substantially "H" shaped and partially defines first peripheral tab T1. First peripheral tab T1 is separated from article engaging tab 150C by cut line 159. First peripheral tab T1 and each side edge of article engaging tab 150C are defined by cut line 159.

[0157] The article engaging tab 150C engages article B beneath a flange or chime of article B, similar to the plurality of tines or tabs 152, 154, 156, 158 of the article retaining structures RT1, RT2 as shown in FIG.

[0158] 11-13, a further alternative embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In the illustrated third embodiment, like numerals have been used wherever possible to designate like parts, but the prefix "200" has been added to indicate that these features belong to the third embodiment. Because the alternative embodiment has much in common with the embodiment of Figures 1-10, only the differences from the embodiment shown in Figures 1-10 will be described in more detail.

[0159] FIG. 11 shows a blank 210 with a number of panels 212, 214, 216, 218, 220 including a main panel 212 for forming the lower wall or mating panel of a carrier 290 (see FIGS. 12 and 13).

[0160] The first top panel 218 and the second top panel 220 are disposed to at least partially overlap one another. A locking structure for locking the first top panel 218 and the second top panel 220 together is provided at the overlapping portion of the first top panel 218 and the second top panel 220. The locking structure cooperates with a handle opening of the main panel 212 to secure the first top panel 218 and the second top panel 220 to the main panel 212.

[0161] The blank 210 includes two handle openings. Each handle opening is defined in or punched out of an area of ​​the main panel 212 that is centrally located between the four openings A1, A2 arranged as two adjacent pairs of openings A1, A2. Each handle opening may be defined, at least in part, by one or more handle flaps 270, 272. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle opening is defined by a pair of handle flaps 270, 272. The pair of handle flaps 270, 272 includes a first major handle flap 270 and a second minor handle flap 272, the minor handle flap 272 being smaller than the major handle flap 270. The first handle flap 270 is hinged to the main panel 212 by a first fold line 271, and the second handle flap 272 is hinged to the main panel 212 by a second fold line 273. The handle opening may be substantially square or diamond shaped. The second fold line 273 may be disposed adjacent to the first fold line 271 and separated from the first fold line 271 by an arcuate cut line that defines rounded corners of the handle opening.

[0162] The locking structure includes at least one receiver LR1, LR2 in the form of an opening in the first top panel 218. The first top panel 218 includes a plurality of openings, more specifically two openings, although in other embodiments may include one or more openings. Each opening is positioned to vertically register or align with a handle opening provided in the main panel 212. Each opening is defined by a tab 264, 266 (also referred to herein as a receiving tab). In the illustrated embodiment, each opening is defined by a single tab 264, 266.

[0163] The first receiving tab 264 is hinged to the first top panel 218 by a first hinge connection in the form of a first fold line 265 to form part of the first receiver LR1. The second receiving tab 266 is hinged to the first top panel 218 by a second hinge connection in the form of a second fold line 267 to form part of the second receiver LR2. The fold lines 265, 267 are obliquely oriented with respect to the tubular axis of the tubular structure formed by at least the first top panel 218, the second top panel 220, the first side panel 214 and the second side panel 216, and the main panel 212. The second receiving tab fold line 267 is disposed divergently with respect to the first receiving tab fold line 265. The second receiving tab fold line 267 and the first receiving tab fold line 265 are positioned to diverge toward the fold line 217 that hinges the first top panel 218 to the first side panel 214. The fold lines 265, 267 are obliquely oriented relative to the fold line 217 that hinges the first top panel 218 to the first side panel 214. In FIG. 11, the free side end SE1 of the first top panel 218 and the fold line 217 are each parallel to and extend along the tubular axis. The second receiving tab fold line 267 may be positioned perpendicular to the first receiving tab fold line 265.

[0164] Each of the first and second receiving tabs 264 includes a pair of cuts 277. The cuts 277 extend inwardly from opposite side edges of each of the first and second receiving tabs 264. The cuts 277 at least partially define proximal portions of the tabs 264, 266 adjacent their respective hinge connections 265, 267 to the first top panel 218. The cuts 277 at least partially define second portions of the tabs 264, 266 distal from their respective hinge connections 265, 267 to the first top panel 218. The cuts 277 are non-linear and generally "V" or "J" shaped. The second or distal portions of the tabs 264, 266 are generally "arrowhead" shaped and define a pair of opposed shoulders or detents for securely engaging the handle opening.

[0165] The cuts 277 at least partially define foldable or deflectable wing portions of the first and second receiving tabs 264. The wing portions are positioned to rest on or engage an upper surface of the main panel 212, with shoulders or detents of distal portions of the first and second receiving tabs 264 positioned under and optionally engaging an opposing underside of the main panel 212.

[0166] The locking structure includes at least one locking element L1, L2 received in the receiver LR1, LR2. The locking element L1, L2 includes a tab 260, 262, and in the illustrated embodiment includes two tabs 260, 262, each engageable with one of the receiver openings and a respective one of the handle openings. Each tab 260, 262 is hingedly connected to the second top panel 220 by a corresponding hinge connection 261, 263, respectively.

[0167] Each locking element L1, L2 is positioned to vertically align or register with a handle opening in the main panel 212 and one of the receiving openings in the first top panel 218. Each locking element L1, L2 is defined by one of two tabs 260, 262 (also referred to herein as locking tabs). In the illustrated embodiment, each locking element L1, L2 is defined by one locking tab 260, 262.

[0168] The first locking tab 260 is hinged to the second top panel 220 by a first hinge connection in the form of a first fold line 261 and forms part of the first locking element L1. The second locking tab 262 is hinged to the second top panel 220 by a second hinge connection in the form of a second fold line 263 and forms part of the second locking element L2. The fold lines 261, 263 are obliquely oriented with respect to the tubular axis of the tubular structure formed by at least the first top panel 218, the second top panel 220, the first side panel 214 and the second side panel 216, and the main panel 212. The second locking tab fold line 263 is arranged to diverge from the first locking tab fold line 261. The second locking tab fold line 263 and the first locking tab fold line 261 are arranged to diverge toward the free side edge SE2 of the second top panel 220. The fold lines 261, 263 are oriented obliquely relative to the fold line 219 that hinges the second top panel 220 to the second side panel 216. In FIG. 11 , the free side edge SE2 of the second top panel 220 and the fold line 219 are each parallel to and extend along the tubular axis. The second locking tab fold line 263 may be disposed perpendicular to the first locking tab fold line 261.

[0169] Each of the first and second locking tabs 260 and 262 includes a pair of cuts 279. The cuts 279 extend inwardly from opposite side edges of each of the first and second receiving tabs 260 and 262. The cuts 279 at least partially define proximal portions of the tabs 260, 262 adjacent their respective hinge connections 261, 263 to the second top panel 220. The cuts 279 at least partially define second portions of the tabs 260, 262 distal from their respective hinge connections 261, 263 to the second top panel 220. The cuts 279 are non-linear and generally "V" or "J" shaped. The second or distal portions of the tabs 260, 262 are generally "arrowhead" shaped and define a pair of opposing shoulders or detents S (see FIG. 13) for securely engaging the handle openings and / or receivers LR1, LR2.

[0170] The cuts 279 at least partially define foldable or bendable wing portions 278 (see FIGS. 12 and 13) of the first and second locking tabs 260, 262. The wing portions 278 are positioned to rest on or engage an upper surface of the main panel 212, with shoulders or detents S of distal portions of the first and second locking tabs 260, 262 being positioned below and optionally engaging an opposing underside of the main panel 212.

[0171] The main handle flap 270 may be positioned to prevent the first and second locking tabs 260, 262 from unfolding or dislodging from the main panel 212. The side edges of the main handle flap 270 inhibit the movement of the first and second locking tabs 260, 262, respectively, and prevent or inhibit the first and second receiving tabs 264, 264, respectively, from unfolding or dislodging from the main panel 212 when positioned below or behind said locking tabs 260, 262. The secondary handle flap 272 of each handle opening may be positioned under or behind either the first receiving tab 264 or the second receiving tab 264 to increase the elastic bias of the locking tabs 260, 262 and the receiving tabs 264, 266 towards the primary handle flap 270 and / or may bias the shoulder or detent S of the locking tabs 260, 262 and the shoulder or detent S of the receiving tabs 264, 266 toward the underside of the main panel 212.

[0172] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 11, the article engaging structure is omitted by eliminating the non-straight cut lines.

[0173] 14-18, further alternative embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. In the illustrated fourth and fifth embodiments, like numerals have been used to indicate like parts where possible, but the prefixes "300" and "400" have been added to indicate that these features belong to the fourth and fifth embodiments, respectively. Because the alternative embodiments have much in common with the embodiments of Figures 1-13, only the differences from the embodiments shown in Figures 1-13 will be described in more detail.

[0174] FIG. 14 shows a blank 310 comprising 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 (not shown).

[0175] 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.

[0176] 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.

[0177] The first top panel 318, the first side panel 314, the main panel 312, the second side panel 316, and the second top panel 320 together form a tubular structure defining a tubular axis zz.

[0178] The first top panel 318, the second top panel 320, the first side panel 314 and the second side panel 316, and the main panel 312 form a tubular structure. Each end of the tubular structure is closed by an end closure structure. The end closure is substantially similar to that of the previously described embodiment and includes end panels 24, 334, top end flaps 326, 336, anchor flaps 322A, 322B, 332A, 332B, and a pair of hinge panels that connect each anchor flap 322A, 322B, 332A, 332B to one of the top end flaps 326, 336.

[0179] In the embodiment of Figures 14-16, the first top or cover panel 318 is configured to be adhesively secured to the second top or cover panel 320. The locking structures, locking elements and receivers of the previously described embodiments are omitted or eliminated. The first top or cover panel 318 is configured to be smaller than the second top or cover panel 320, i.e., the width of the first top or cover panel 318 in a direction transverse to the tubular axis of the tubular structure is smaller than the width of the second top or cover panel 320 in said transverse direction. Thus, the overlapping area between the first top or cover panel 318 and the second top or cover panel 320 is offset with respect to an imaginary centerline that longitudinally bisects the main panel 312.

[0180] The main panel 312 of the blank 310 includes at least one item retention structure RT1, RT2. The main panel 312 includes a plurality of item retention structures RT1, RT2, specifically six item retention structures RT1, RT2 arranged in a 2 x 3 matrix or array. Each item retention structure RT1, RT2 includes an opening.

[0181] The item retaining structures RT1, RT2 of the embodiment of FIG. 14 take the form of a plurality of annularly arranged tines or tabs 352, 352B, 354, 354B, 356, 358, 358B which form part of the item receiving opening and are best seen in FIGS.

[0182] A plurality of tines 352, 352B, 354, 354B, 356, 358, 358B are provided by the main panel 312. Each of the tines 352, 352B, 354, 354B, 356, 358, 358B includes a hinge connection. The hinge connection may be defined between a pair of cutaways, each of which may take the shape of any of a cutline, a slit, a notch, or a recess. If cutlines are used, the cutlines may be substantially "J" shaped or "L" shaped.

[0183] Each of the teeth 352, 352B, 354, 354B, 356, 358, 358B includes an engagement edge E1 facing the hinge edge. The engagement edge E1 is defined by a straight portion of the cut line that defines the friction flap 350, and the first opening A1 and the second opening A2 of the previous embodiment are omitted or eliminated. Each engagement edge E1 may define a portion of a polygon. In the illustrated embodiment, thirteen teeth 352, 352B, 354, 354B, 356, 358, 358B together define a portion of a polygon. Each tooth 352, 352B, 354, 354B, 356, 358, 358B includes a pair of side edges. Each side edge is defined by a cut 351, 357 or recess that extends radially outwardly from and defines tabs T2, T3, T4 integral with friction tab 350.

[0184] The blank 310 includes two first article retaining structures RT1 and four second article retaining structures RT2.

[0185] The first article retaining structure RT1 is disposed adjacent a first end of the main panel 312 defined by a hinge connection with the first end panel 324. The first end of the main panel 312 may be the trailing end or the upstream end as it is transported through a packaging machine (not shown).

[0186] The first pair of second article retaining structures RT2 are disposed adjacent to a second end of the main panel 312 defined by a hinge connection to the second end panel 334. The second end of the main panel 312 may be the leading or downstream end as it is conveyed through a packaging machine (not shown).

[0187] The second pair of second item holding structures RT2 are disposed between the first item holding structure RT1 and the first pair of second item holding structures RT2.

[0188] The first item retaining structure RT1 includes an item receiving opening defined in part by a cover or friction flap 350.

[0189] The first article retaining structure RT1 includes a plurality of teeth or tabs 352, 352B, 354, 354B, 356, 358, 358B, as best seen in Figure 15. The plurality of teeth or tabs 352, 352B, 354, 354B, 356, 358, 358B are arranged annularly around the friction flap 350.

[0190] The first article retaining structure RT1 includes a plurality of first teeth or engagement tabs 352 for supporting or suspending an article B.

[0191] The first article retention structure RT1 includes a second tooth or engagement tab 354 located near the hinge connection between the engagement panel 312 and the first end panel 324. The second tooth 354 is defined in part by a pair of third peripheral tabs T3 extending from the friction flap 350. When the friction flap 350 is displaced out of the plane of the main panel 312, a third notch or recess C3 is defined opposite the second tooth 354.

[0192] The first article retaining structure RT1 includes a third tine or tab 350A (also referred to herein as a connecting tab 350A) disposed opposite the second tine 354. The third tab 350A is coupled to or integral with the friction flap 350. The third tine or tab 350A may be defined in part by a cut line 351A. The cut line 351A may be oriented obliquely relative to a fold line in the form of a cut line 353A that hinges the third tab 350A to the main panel 312 or the end panel 334. The cut lines 351A may be positioned such that they are oriented in divergent directions relative to each other as they approach the friction flap 350. In this manner, the portion of the third tab 350A closer to the friction flap 350 is wider than the portion of the third tab 350A closer to the main panel 312. The third tab 350A may be defined, at least in part, by a fold line in the form of a cut line 359 that separates a portion of the third tab 350A from the friction flap 350. The fold line 359 may be linear. The fold lines 359 and 353A of at least one connection tab 350A are approximately perpendicular to the tubular axis zz of the article carrier. Figure 14 shows an embodiment in which the fold lines 359 and 353A of all connection tabs 350A are approximately perpendicular to the tubular axis zz, while Figure 17 shows another embodiment in which the fold lines 459 and 453A of at least one connection tab 450, 450A are approximately perpendicular to the tubular axis zz.

[0193] Partial teeth or tabs 358 may be provided on either side of the third tooth or tab 350A.

[0194] The friction flap 350 includes a second peripheral tab T2 extending therefrom. The second peripheral tab T2 defines a second recess C2.

[0195] The second recess C2 blocks the teeth 352, 352B, 354, 354B, 356, 358, 358B of the first article retaining structure RT1. The second recess C2 is provided at a circumferential position of the article receiving opening located closest to the adjacent first article retaining structure RT1. The second recess C2 extends from the article receiving opening toward the adjacent first article retaining structure RT1.

[0196] Each side of the second recess C2 is provided with a fourth tooth or tab 356. Each fourth tooth or tab 356 occupies a greater circumferential distance than one of the first teeth 352. Each fourth tooth 356 is defined in part by a cut line 351 and the second recess C2. The cut line terminates in a "J" or "C" shaped cut. The "J" shaped cut may be positioned to curve toward the second recess C2.

[0197] The first item retention structure RT1 includes a fifth tine or engagement tab 354B located near the hinge connection between the engagement panel 312 and either the first side panel 314 or the second side panel 316. The fifth tine 354B is defined in part by a pair of cut lines 357 extending outwardly from the friction flap 350.

[0198] The fifth tooth 354B is sufficiently close to one of the fold lines 313, 315 that hinge the first side panel 314 and the second side panel 316 to the engagement panel 312 that each of the fold lines 313, 315 effectively acts as a hinge connection to the fifth tooth 354B. The fifth tooth 354B may be defined by a cut 357 that includes a "J" or "C" shaped cut proximate one of the fold lines 313, 315. The fifth tooth 354B is disposed opposite the second recess C2.

[0199] A sixth tooth or tab 352B is disposed on either side of the fifth tooth 354B. Each sixth tooth 352B is defined in part by a pair of cut lines 351, 357, each terminating in a "J" or "C" shaped cut. The "J" shaped cuts may be arranged to curve or converge toward each other as they move away from the friction flap 350. The end of the "J" shaped cut of cut line 351 extends toward the end of the "J" shaped cut of cut line 357.

[0200] Opposite the second tooth 354 may be a pair of seventh teeth or tabs 358B. Each seventh tooth 358B is defined by a cut line 351 and one of the third recesses C3. The cut line terminates in a "J" or "C" shaped cut. The "J" shaped cut may be positioned to curve toward the third recess C3.

[0201] The second item retaining structure RT2 is similar in structure to the first item retaining structure RT1, but replaces the second tooth 354 and the pair of seventh tooth 358B with a fourth notch or recess C4 defined by a fourth peripheral tab T4 and a pair of fourth tooth 356 extending from the friction flap 350 opposite the connecting tab 350A. The fourth recess C4 is provided at a circumferential position of the item receiving opening located closest to the adjacent first item retaining structure RT1 or second item retaining structure RT2.

[0202] In the second item retention structure RT2, located near the second end of the main panel 312 and defined by a hinge connection to the second end panel 334, the hinge connection portion 353A of the connection tab 350A may be coincident with or in line with the hinge connection with the fold line 335.

[0203] In a packaging machine, the connection tab 350A defines a tip or portion of the friction flap 350 as the blank 310 is transported, thereby preventing or inhibiting the friction flap 350 from catching or impeding the movement of the blank 310 through the packaging machine.

[0204] The blank 310 may include at least one stabilizer W. In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 310 includes two stabilizers W. The stabilizer W takes the form of an opening cut from the blank 310, defined by a flap 378 cut from the main panel 312, and hinged to the main panel 312 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 377. The first stabilizer W may be disposed between a first group of four article retaining structures RT1, RT2 located near a first end or leading edge of the blank 310 and centered between said groups of article retaining structures RT1, RT2. The second stabilizer W may be disposed between a second group of four article retaining structures RT1, RT2 located near a second end or trailing edge of the blank 310 and centered between said groups of article retaining structures RT1, RT2. The stabilizer W is configured to receive an abutment peg of a packaging machine to prevent or inhibit misalignment of the blank 310 when applied to the article B.

[0205] FIG. 17 shows a blank 410 with a number of panels 412, 414, 416, 418, 420, including a main panel 412 for forming a lower wall or engagement panel of a carrier (not shown). A first side panel 414 is hinged to a first side of the main panel 412 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 413. A first top or cover panel 418 is hinged to the first side panel 414 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 417. A second side panel 416 is hinged to a second side of the main panel 412 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 415. A second top or cover panel 420 is hinged to the second side panel 416 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 419. The blank 410 is substantially similar to the blank 310 of FIG. 14 and only the differences will be described in more detail.

[0206] The main panel 412 of the blank 410 includes at least one item retention structure RT2, RT3. The main panel 412 includes a plurality of item retention structures RT2, RT3, specifically six item retention structures RT2, RT3 arranged in a 2 x 3 matrix or array. Each item retention structure RT2, RT3 includes an opening.

[0207] The item retaining structures RT2, RT3 in the embodiment of Figure 17 take the form of a plurality of annularly arranged tines or tabs 452, 452B, 454, 456, 458 which form a portion of the item receiving opening, as best seen in Figure 17B.

[0208] The blank 310 includes four first article retaining structures RT3 and two second article retaining structures RT2.

[0209] The first pair of first article retaining structures RT3 are disposed adjacent to a first end of the main panel 412 defined by a hinge connection to the first end panel 424. The first end of the main panel 412 may be the trailing or upstream end as it is transported through a packaging machine (not shown).

[0210] The first pair of first article retaining structures RT3 are disposed adjacent to a second end of the main panel 412 defined by a hinge connection with the second end panel 434. The second end of the main panel 412 may be the leading or downstream end as it is transported through a packaging machine (not shown).

[0211] The pair of second item retaining structures RT2 are disposed between the first pair of first item retaining structures RT3 and the second pair of first item retaining structures RT3. The pair of second item retaining structures RT2 are mirror images or reflections of the first pair of first item retaining structures RT3 about an imaginary line that laterally bisects the main panel 412.

[0212] The second article retaining structure RT2 is substantially similar to the second article retaining structure RT2 of the embodiment of FIG. 16 and has been described above, so will not be described in further detail.

[0213] The first item retaining structure RT3 is defined in part by a cover or friction flap 450 and includes an item receiving opening defined in part by a first aperture A1.

[0214] The first item retention structure RT3, as best seen in Figure 15, includes a plurality of teeth or tabs 452, 452B, 454, 456, 458. The plurality of teeth or tabs 452, 452B, 454, 456, 458 are arranged in an annular row around the friction flap 450 and the first opening A1.

[0215] The first item retaining structure RT3 includes a plurality of first teeth or engagement tabs 452 for supporting or suspending an item B.

[0216] The first article retaining structure RT3 includes a pair of second teeth or engagement tabs 454. The first article retaining structure RT3 includes a first second tooth or engagement tab 454 disposed near a hinge connection between the engagement panel 412 and each of the first end panel 424 and the second end panel 434. The first second tooth 454 is sufficiently proximate to one of the fold lines 425, 435 that hinge-connect the first end panel 424 and the second end panel 434 to the engagement panel 412 such that the corresponding one of the fold lines 425, 435 effectively serves as a hinge connection to the first second tooth 454. The first second tooth 454 may be defined by a cut 457 including a "J" or "C" shaped cut proximate to one of the fold lines 425, 435.

[0217] The first article retaining structure RT3 includes a second tooth or engagement tab 454 located near the hinge connection between the engagement panel 412 and each of the first and second side panels 414, 416. The second second tooth 454 is sufficiently proximate to one of the fold lines 413, 415 that hinge-connect the first end panel 414 and the second end panel 416 to the engagement panel 412 such that the corresponding one of the fold lines 413, 415 effectively serves as a hinge connection to the second second tooth 454. The second second tooth 454 may be defined by a cut 457 that includes a "J" or "C" shaped cut proximate to one of the fold lines 413, 415.

[0218] The first article retaining structure RT3 includes a third tine or tab 450A (also referred to herein as a connecting tab 450A) disposed opposite the second tine 454. The third tab 450A is coupled to or integral with the friction flap 450. The third tine or tab 450A may be defined in part by a cut line 451A. The cut line 451A may be oriented obliquely relative to the fold line 453A that hinges the third tab 450A to the main panel 312. The cut lines 451A may be positioned to be oriented in a diverging direction relative to each other as they approach the friction flap 450. In this manner, the portion of the third tab 450A closer to the friction flap 450 is wider than the portion of the third tab 450A closer to the main panel 412. The third tab 450A is defined, at least in part, by a cut line 459 that separates a portion of the third tab 450A from the friction flap 450. The cut line 459 can be a straight line. The third tab 450A is hinged to a central or medial portion of the main panel 412, whereas the friction flap 50 is hinged to marginal or side portions of the main panel 12 in the embodiment of FIG.

[0219] Partial teeth or tabs 458 may be provided on either side of the third tooth or tab 450A.

[0220] The plurality of teeth 452, 452B, 454, 456, 458 of the first article retaining structure RT3 are interrupted by a first recess or notch C1. The first recess C1 is provided at a circumferential position of the first opening A1 located closest to the adjacent second article retaining structure RT2 and is located opposite the first second tooth 454. The first recess C1 extends from the first opening A1 towards the second article retaining structure RT2.

[0221] Each side of the first recess C1 is provided with a fourth tooth or tab 456. Each fourth tooth or tab 456 may occupy a greater circumferential distance than one of the first teeth 452. Each fourth tooth 456 is defined in part by a cut line 451 and the first recess C1. The cut line terminates in a "J" or "C" shaped cut. The "J" shaped cut may be positioned to curve toward the first recess C1.

[0222] Each of the pair of second teeth or engagement tabs 454 is flanked on either side by a sixth tooth or tab 452B. Each of the sixth teeth 452B is defined in part by a pair of cut lines 451, 457, each terminating in a "J" or "C" shaped cut. The "J" shaped cuts may be positioned to curve or converge toward each other as they move away from the friction flap 450. The end of the "J" shaped cut of cut line 451 extends toward the end of the "J" shaped cut of cut line 457.

[0223] 18, a blank 410 is shown in a manufacturing stage with a group of articles B contained within the blank 410, each of which is engaged by a respective one of the article retaining structures RT2, RT3. The first end panel 424 and the second end panel 434 are folded against the main panel 312, and the first top end flap 426 and the second top end flap 436 are folded to partially cover the most extreme article B contained within the blank 410. The friction flap 450 has been moved outwardly of the main panel 412 and is positioned over the top end of each of the moved articles B. Each friction flap 450 of the first article retaining structure RT3 is at least partially maintained or held by either the first top end flap 426 or the second top end flap 436. Guide G is shown holding the first and second top end flaps 426, 436 and friction flap 450 in the folded position as the blank 410 is conveyed in a direction of travel indicated by direction D1. The guide may form part of a packaging machine for assembling or constructing the blank 410 into a package comprising an article carrier 490 and a group of articles B. In this position, an adhesive or other adhesive treatment may be applied to the top surface of the friction flap 450. The first top panel 418 may then be folded and positioned over article B, at least a portion of the first and second top end flaps 426, 436 and friction flap 450. An adhesive or other adhesive treatment may be applied to the top or outer surface of the first top panel 418 before the second top panel 420 is folded to overlap the first top panel 418.

[0224] The connection tab 450A of the second article retaining structure RT2 secures a tip or portion of the friction flap 450 as the blank 410 is transported through the packaging machine, thereby preventing the friction flap 450 from getting caught or impeding the movement of the blank 410 through the packaging machine. This is particularly advantageous for the second article retaining structure RT2 that is far from the first and second top end flaps 426, 436, and thus may have greater freedom of movement than the friction flap 450 of the first article retaining structure RT3 that is retained by the first and second top end flaps 426, 436.

[0225] The blanks 10, 110, 210, 310, 410 include at least a paperboard substrate. The material of the paperboard substrate is selected from conventional paperboards and may range, for example, in weight from about 10 pt, preferably from about 16 pt to about 28 pt (0.028 in. / ~0.7 mm). Examples of such substrates are 27 point (pt.) SBS board (solid bleached sulfate paperboard coated on one side, under the trade name PrintKote®) or CNK® board (Coated Natural Kraft®: unbleached kraft paperboard with a clay coating on one side, under the trade name CarrierKote®) manufactured by WestRock® Company. The paperboard substrate may be bleached or unbleached board. The paperboard may be coated on at least one side, optionally opposite the lamination side, with a conventional coating selected to suit the printing method and the composition of the paperboard.

[0226] The blanks 10, 110, 210, 310, 410 may include a tear resistant layer laminated to the paperboard layer. They may also 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 of a polymeric material and secured to the substrate. The tear resistant layer provides toughness to the laminate structure. Suitable tear resistant materials may include layers of tear resistant laminate sheet materials (e.g., NATRALOCK®, including but not limited to, biaxially oriented polyester, oriented nylon, cross-laminated polyolefin, or high density polyolefin, n-axis oriented films (e.g., MYLAR®). 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).

[0227] Alternatively, the tear resistant layer can be a linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) layer. 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 also be used.

[0228] The adhesive layer is 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.

[0229] The present invention provides a carrier 90;190;290;490 for engaging at least one article B. The article carrier 90;190;290;490 comprises spaced apart panels 12,18 / 20;112,118 / 120;218 / 220;318 / 320;418 / 420, including an upper panel 18 / 20;118 / 120;212,218 / 220;312,318 / 320;412,418 / 420 and a lower panel 12;112;212;312;412.

[0230] The article carrier 90; 190 may include locking tabs 60, 62; 160, 162 formed from the upper panel 18 / 20; 118 / 120. The locking tabs 60, 62; 160, 162 function as retention devices that secure the upper panel 18 / 20; 118 / 120 in position above the lower panel 12; 112. At least a portion of the locking tabs 60, 62, 160, 162 is disposed between and maintains the spacing between the upper panel 18 / 20, 118 / 120 and the lower panel 12, 112.

[0231] The article carriers 90; 190 may include a pair of locking tabs 60, 62; 160, 162 formed from and hingedly connected to the top panels 18 / 20; 118 / 120 by fold lines 61, 63; 161, 163. The fold lines 61, 63; 161, 163 may be oriented obliquely relative to the side edges of the panels 18 / 20; 118 / 120 in which they are defined. A first of the pair of locking tabs 60, 62; 160, 162 is hinged to the panel 18 / 20; 118 / 120 by a first fold line 61, 161, while a second of the pair of locking tabs 60, 62; 160, 162 is hinged to the panel 18 / 20; 118 / 120 by a second fold line 63, 163. The first fold line 61, 161 is parallel to the second fold line 63, 163.

[0232] The present invention also provides a top-engagement type carrier 90,190 having an engagement panel 12,112 including an article retaining structure RT1,RT2 and a cover panel 18 / 20,118 / 120 disposed on and spaced apart from the engagement panel 12,112.

[0233] The carrier 90, 190, 290 may include an article retaining structure RT1, RT2 having an annular arrangement of engagement teeth or tabs 52, 54, 56, 58, 152, 154, 156, 158. The article retaining structure RT1, RT2 may include a friction flap 50, 150, which may be surrounded by an annular arrangement of engagement teeth or tabs 52, 54, 56, 58, 152, 154, 156, 158. The article retaining structure RT1, RT2 may include an opening A1, A2 surrounded by an annular arrangement of engagement teeth or tabs 52, 54, 56, 58, 152, 154, 156, 158. The friction flap 50, 150 is coupled to the engagement panel 12, 112 by at least one connecting tab 50A, 150B. At least one connection tab 50A; 150B may be disposed near a fold line 13, 15; 113, 115 between the engagement panel 12; 112 and the side panel 14, 16; 114, 116. The side panel 14, 16; 114, 116 may engage or contact the at least one connection tab 50A; 150B and press the at least one connection tab 50A; 150B toward or against an article in the article holding structure RT1. The friction flap 50; 150 may include at least one peripheral tab T1, T2. The friction flap 50; 150 may include two peripheral tabs T1, T2. The first peripheral tab T1 may be punched out from the at least one connection tab 50A; 150B. The second peripheral tab T2 may extend from the friction flap 50;150 and interrupt the annular row of engagement teeth or tabs 52,54,56,58;152,154,156,158 to at least partially define a notch or recess C2. The first peripheral tab T1 is defined by a "U" shaped cut line 59. The second peripheral tab T2 is defined by a portion of an "H" shaped cut line 159. The first peripheral tab T1 may engage or contact the side panel 14,16;114,116 to urge the at least one connection tab 50A;150B toward or against an item B in the item retaining structure RT1.

[0234] The carriers 90, 190, 290, 490 may include article retaining structures RT1, RT2; RT3 having annular engagement teeth or tabs 52, 54, 56, 58, 152, 154, 156, 158, 352, 352B, 354, 354B, 356, 358, 358B, 452, 452B, 454, 456, 458. The article retaining structures RT1, RT2; RT3 may include an opening A1 surrounded by a friction flap 50, 150, 350A, 450A and / or an annular array of engagement teeth or tabs 52, 54, 56, 58, 152, 154, 156, 158, 352, 352B, 354, 354B, 356, 358, 358B, 452, 452B, 454, 456, 458. The friction flap 50; 150B; 350A; 450A is coupled to the engagement panel 12; 112 by at least one connection tab 50A; 150B; 350A; 450A. At least one connection tab 50A, 150B, 350A, 450A may be disposed near a fold line 25, 35, 125, 135, 325, 335, 425, 435 between the engagement panel 12, 112, 312, 412 and the end panel 24, 34, 124, 134. The end panel 24, 34; 124, 134; 224, 234; 324, 334; 424, 434 may engage or contact the at least one connection tab 50A; 150B; 350A; 450A, such that the at least one connection tab 50A; 150B; 350A; 450A may press toward or against an item B in the item retention structure RT1, RT2; RT3.

[0235] The friction flap 50;150 may be coupled to the engagement panel 12;112 by a pair of connection tabs 150B. The pair of connection tabs 150B are spaced apart from one another by an article engagement tab 150C. The article engagement tab 150C may be defined by a second portion of the "H" shaped cut line 159.

[0236] The carrier 90;190 may include end closure structures 22A / 28A / 30A / 24 / 26 / 30B / 28B / 22B, 32A / 38A / 40A / -34 / 36 / 40B / 38B / 32B, 122A / 128A / 130A / 124 / 126 / 130B / 128B / 122B, 132A / 138A / 140A / 134 / 136 / 140B / 138B / 132B. The end closure structures 22A / 28A / 30A / 24 / 26 / 30B / 28B / 22B, 32A / 38A / 40A / 34 / 36 / 40B / 38B / 32B, 122A / 128A / -130A / 124 / 126 / 130B / 128B / 122B, 132A / 138A / 140A / 134 / 136 / 140B / 138B / 132B may include end panels 24, 34, 124, 134 and top end flaps 26, 36, 126, 136 hinged thereto. End closure structures 22A / 28A / 30A / 24 / 26 / 30B / 28B / 22B, 32A / 38A / 40A / 34 / 36 / 40B / 38B / 32B, 122A / 128A / 130A / 124 / 126 / 130B / 128B / 122B, 132A / 138A / 140A / 134 / 136 / 140B / 138B / 132B comprise article engaging structures including cut lines 3, 103 stamped out of end panels 24, 34, 124, 134, the cut lines 3, 103 having a first width dimension 11 and at least partially defining an article engaging opening OP that defines an engagement edge E3 in the end panels 24, 34, 124, 134. The end panel 24, 34, 124, 134 in the region of the engagement edge E3 is positioned to bear against or support at least one of the plurality of engagement teeth or tabs 52, 54, 56, 58, 152, 154, 156, 158 of the adjacently disposed article retaining structure RT1. At least one of the plurality of engagement teeth or tabs 52, 54, 56, 58; 152, 154, 156, 158 has an engagement edge E1 having a second width dimension l2, where the second width dimension l2 is less than the first width dimension l1. At least one of the plurality of engagement teeth or tabs 52,54,56,58; 152,154,156,158 may be hinged to the engagement panel 12;112 by a fold line 25,35; 125,135 that hinges the end panel 24,34; 124,134 to the engagement panel 12;112.At least one of the plurality of engagement teeth or tabs 52, 54, 56, 58; 152, 154, 156, 158 may be defined by a pair of non-linear, optionally "J" shaped, cut lines 57; 157 spaced apart from the fold lines 25, 35; 125, 135 hinged the end panels 24, 34; 124, 134 to the engagement panel 12; 112. The cut lines 3, 103 may be non-linear and define a cover tab T3 that is punched out of the end panels 24, 34, 124, 134 and extends from the top end flaps 26, 36, 126, 136. The cover tab T3 is advantageous in that the top end of the article B that protrudes from or is received within the article engagement opening OP is covered or otherwise protected by the cover tab T3. In some embodiments, the end panel 24,34,124,134 and at least one of the plurality of engagement teeth or tabs 52,54,56,58,152,154,156,158 may be positioned to be inclined at different inclination angles relative to the engagement panel 12,112.

[0237] The carrier 90;190 may include a gusset end closure structure 22A, 28A, 30A, 24, 26, 30B, 28B, 22B, 32A, 38A, 40A, 34, 36, 40B, 38B, 32B; 122A, 128A, 130A, 124, 126, 130B, 128B, 122B, 132A, 138A, 140A, 134, 136, 140B, 138B, 132B for forming a rigid hinge connection along at least one of the upper and lower end edges of at least one end of a tubular structure formed in part by the cover panel 18 / 20;118 / 120 and the opposing side panel 14,16;114,116 with the engagement panel 12;112.

[0238] The carrier 90;190 may include gussets provided by a pair of hinge panels 28A / 30A, 28B / 30B, 38A / 40A, 38B / 40B; 128A / 130A, 128B / 130B, 138A / 140A, 138B / 140B connecting between a first end flap 22A, 22B, 32A, 32B; 122A, 122B, 132A, 132B hinged to the top or cover panel 18 / 20; 118 / 120 and a second end flap 24 / 26, 34 / 36; 124 / 126, 134 / 136 hinged to the bottom or engagement panel 12;112.

[0239] A pair of hinge panels 28A / 30A, 28B / 30B, 38A / 40A, 38B / 40B; 128A / 130A, 128B / 130B, 138A / 140A, 138B / 140B may be hingedly connected to portions 26, 36; 126, 136 of the second end flap 24 / 26, 34 / 36; 124 / 126, 134 / 136 arranged to be substantially parallel to the upper or cover panel 18 / 20; 118 / 12; and / or the lower or engagement panel 12; 112.

[0240] The pair of hinge panels 28A / 30A, 28B / 30B, 38A / 40A, 38B / 40B, 128A / 130A, 128B / 130B, 138A / 140A, 138B / 140B may be recessed relative to an end edge of the first end flap 22A, 22B, 32A, 32B, 122A, 122B, 132A, 132B or the second end flap 24 / 26, 34 / 36, 124 / 126, 134 / 136.

[0241] At least one of the pairs of hinge panels 28A / 30A, 28B / 30B, 38A / 40A, 38B / 40B, 128A / 130A, 128B / 130B, 138A / 140A, 138B / 140B may be defined, at least in part, by a pair of differently oriented fold lines 31A, 41A, 131A, 141A.

[0242] At least one of the pairs of hinge panels 28A / 30A, 28B / 30B, 38A / 40A, 38B / 40B, 128A / 130A, 128B / 130B, 138A / 140A, 138B / 140B may be defined, at least in part, by a pair of parallel fold lines 29A, 31A, 129A, 131A.

[0243] The cover panel 18 / 20; 118 / 120 includes a pair of cover flaps 18,20; 118,120, each of which is hingedly connected to the engagement panel 12; 112 by a respective side panel 14,16;

[0244] The present disclosure also provides a top-engagement type carrier 290 having an engagement panel 212 including article retaining structures RT1, RT2 and a cover panel 218 / 220 disposed above and spaced apart from the engagement panel 212. The cover panel 218 / 220 includes a first opening defined at least in part by a first locking tab 260 and a second opening defined at least in part by a second locking tab 262, the first opening being spaced apart from the second opening. The first locking tab 260 is hinged to the cover panel 218 / 220 by a first fold line 261, and the second locking tab 260 is hinged to the cover panel 218 / 220 by a second fold line 263, each of the first fold line 261 and the second fold line 263 being obliquely oriented with respect to a side edge of the cover panel 218 / 220. The first fold line 261 is disposed at a divergent position relative to the second fold line 263. The first fold line 261 may be perpendicular to the second fold line 263. The cover panel 218 / 220 may be a composite panel formed from a pair of panels 218, 220 disposed in at least partial overlapping relationship with one another. One of the pair of panels 218, 220 may include a first locking tab 260 and a second locking tab 262. The other of the pair of panels 218, 220 may include a receiving opening for receiving the first locking tab 260 and the second locking tab 262, respectively. Each receiving opening may be defined, at least in part, by the receiving tab 260 hinged to the other of the pair of panels 218, 220 by a respective pair of fold lines 263, 265. The first of the pair of fold lines 263, 265 is disposed at a divergent position relative to the second of the pair of fold lines 263, 265. Each of the pair of fold lines 263, 265 is oriented obliquely with respect to the other side edge of the pair of panels 218, 220.

[0245] The present invention also provides a carrier 490 having an engagement panel 312, 412 including two or more article retaining structures RT1, RT2; RT3. The engagement panel 312, 412 includes a pair of opposing side edges and a pair of end edges. Each of the two or more article retaining structures RT1, RT2; RT3 includes an article receiving opening including an annular engagement tines or tab 352, 352B, 354, 354B, 356, 358, 358B, 452, 452B, 454, 456, 458. Each of the two or more article retaining structures RT1, RT2; RT3 may include a friction flap 50, 150, 350A, 450A surrounded by an annular engagement tines or tab 352, 352B, 354, 354B, 356, 358, 358B, 452, 452B, 454, 456, 458. The friction flaps 350A; 450A are coupled to the engagement panels 312; 412 by at least one connection tab 50A; 150B; 350A; 450A. The at least one connection tab 50A; 150B; 350A; 450A may be disposed around the article receiving opening of each of the two or more item retaining structures RT1, RT2; RT3 such that the friction flaps 50; 150; 350A; 450A of the two or more item retaining structures RT1, RT2; RT3 are all folded in the same direction.

[0246] The friction flaps 50, 150, 350A, 450A of two or more of the article retaining structures RT1, RT2; RT3 may be folded toward the same side or end edge of the engagement panel 312, 412.

[0247] The engagement panel 312; 412 has a longitudinal axis y and a transverse axis x.

[0248] The two or more item retaining structures RT1, RT2; RT3 are arranged in a straight line parallel to one of the longitudinal axis y and the transverse axis x.

[0249] At least one connection tab 50A, 150B, 350A, 450A may be located at or near the tip of the article receiving opening of each of the two or more article retaining structures RT1, RT2; RT3 as they are transported through the packaging machine.

[0250] The present disclosure also provides a carrier 490 having an engagement panel 312, 412 including two or more article retaining structures RT1, RT2; RT3. Each of the two or more article retaining structures RT1, RT2; RT3 has an article receiving opening including an annular engagement tines or tab 352, 352B, 354, 354B, 356, 358, 358B, 452, 452B, 454, 456, 458. Each of the two or more article retaining structures RT1, RT2; RT3 may include a friction flap 50, 150, 350A, 450A surrounded by an annular engagement tines or tab 352, 352B, 354, 354B, 356, 358, 358B, 452, 452B, 454, 456, 458. The friction flap 50;150B;350A;450A is coupled to the engagement panel 312;412 by at least one connection tab 50A;150B;350A;450A. The at least one connection tab 50A;150B;350A;450A defines a proximal end of the friction flap 50;150B;350A;450A. The proximal end of the friction flap 50;150B;350A;450A of a first article retention structure of the two or more article retention structures RT1, RT2;RT3 is disposed adjacent to a distal end of the friction flap 50;150B;350A;450A of a second article retention structure of the two or more article retention structures RT1, RT2;RT3, and the distal end is disposed opposite the proximal end.

[0251] The present disclosure also provides a carrier 490 having an engagement panel 312, 412 including two or more article retaining structures RT1, RT2; RT3. Each of the two or more article retaining structures RT1, RT2; RT3 has an article receiving opening including an annular row of engagement teeth or tabs 352, 352B, 354, 354B, 356, 358, 358B, 452, 452B, 454, 456, 458. At least one of the annular rows of engagement teeth or tabs 352, 352B, 354, 354B, 356, 358, 358B, 452, 452B, 454, 456, 458 may be defined in part by a pair of cut lines 351, 357, 451, 457, each of which terminates in a curved cut, i.e., a "J" shaped or "C" shaped notch. The "J" shaped cuts may be positioned to curve toward each other and converge toward each other as they move away from the friction flaps 350, 450. The end of the "J" shaped cut of one of the pair of cut lines 351, 357, 451, 457 extends toward the end of the "J" shaped cut of the other of the pair of cut lines 351, 357, 451, 457.

[0252] The present disclosure also provides a carrier 490 having an engagement panel 312, 412 including two or more article retaining structures RT1, RT2; RT3. Each of the two or more article retaining structures RT1, RT2; RT3 has an article receiving opening including an annular row of engagement teeth or tabs 352, 352B, 354, 354B, 356, 358, 358B, 452, 452B, 454, 456, 458. At least one of the annular rows of engagement teeth or tabs 352, 352B, 354, 354B, 356, 358, 358B, 452, 452B, 454, 456, 458 is defined in part by a cut line 351, 357, 451, 457 that terminates in a curved, J-shaped or C-shaped cut and in part by a notch or recess C1, C2, C3, C4. The "J" shaped cuts may be positioned to curve toward the notches or recesses C1, C2, C3, C4 and converge thereto as they move away from the friction flaps 350, 450.

[0253] It will be appreciated that directional references such as "top," "bottom," "base," "front," "rear," "end," "side," "inner," "outer," "upper," and "lower" used herein do not necessarily limit the respective panels to such orientations, but are merely used to distinguish these panels from one another.

[0254] The terms "hinge connection" and "fold line" as used herein refer to any type of line that defines a hinge function of a blank, facilitates folding of the blank relative to one another, or indicates an optimal panel fold line location of the blank. References to a "hinge connection" should not be construed as necessarily referring to only a single fold line, and in fact a hinge connection may be formed from two or more fold lines, each of which may be either straight or curved in shape. When straight fold lines form a hinge connection, the fold lines may be disposed parallel to one another or slightly angled relative to one another. When curved fold lines form a hinge connection, the fold lines may intersect with one another to define a panel shaped within the area bounded by the curved fold lines. A typical example of such a hinge connection includes a pair of arched or bowed fold lines that intersect at two points and define an oval panel therebetween. 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 includes a combination of straight fold lines and arched or bowed fold lines that intersect at two points to define a half-moon shaped panel therebetween.

[0255] The term "fold line" as used herein may refer to any of a score line, an embossed line, a debossed line, a perforation line, a short slit line, a half-cut line, a single half-cut, an interrupted cut line, aligned slit lines, a score line, as well as any combination of these options.

[0256] It should be understood that the hinge connections and fold lines may each include elements formed in the blank substrate, such as perforations, perforation lines, short slit lines, half cut lines, single half cuts, cut lines, interrupted cut lines, slit lines, score lines, embossed lines, debossed lines, any combination thereof, etc. The elements may be dimensioned and positioned to provide the required functionality. For example, perforation lines may be dimensioned and designed with a degree of weakness to define the fold or cut lines. Perforation lines may be designed to be easy to fold and not easily breakable, easy to fold and not easily breakable, easy to fold and breakable with more force, or easy to breakable with little force.

[0257] The phrase "align" as used herein refers to the alignment of two or more elements in an erected carton, such as an opening formed in a first of two overlapping panels and a second opening formed in a second of two overlapping panels. These elements that are aligned with one another may be aligned with one another in the thickness direction of the overlapping panels. For example, when an opening in a first panel "aligns" 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 be aligned with the second opening in the thickness direction of the first and second panels. [Explanation of symbols]

[0258] 3, 53, 55, 159, 351A, 353A, 359, 457 Cut Line 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 24, 34, 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 312, 314, 316, 318, 320, 451, 451A, 457, 459 Panel 10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 412, 414, 416, 418, 420 Blank 90, 190, 290, 490 cartons or carriers 13, 15, 17, 19, 23A / B, 25, 27, 33A / B, 35, 37, 53, 55, 61, 63, 65, 67, 71, 73, 161, 163, 217, 261, 263, 265, 267, 271, 273, 313, 315, 317, 413, 415, 453A, 459 Fold lines 26, 36, 326, 336 Top End Flap 22A / B, 32A / B, 322A / B, 332A / B Anchor flap 28A / B, 30A / B, 38A / B, 40A / B Hinge Panel, Connection Panel 52, 54, 56, 58, 152, 154, 156, 158, 352, 352B, 354, 354B, 356, 358, 358B, 452, 452B, 454, 456, 458 teeth 50, 150, 350, 450 Friction Flap 51, 57, 277, 279 Cutting 70, 72, 270, 272 Handle flap, handle tab 61, 63, 265, 267 Hinge connection 60, 62, 64, 66, 264, 266 tabs 90, 190, 290, 490 Goods Carrier 150B, 350A, 450, 450A Connection Tabs 150C ARTICLE ENGAGEMENT TAB 278 Wing section A1, A2, A10 opening C1~C4 Recesses or cutouts H-handle structure L1, L2 locking elements LR1, LR2 receivers OP article engagement opening RT1, RT2, RT3 Article holding structure T1, T2, T3 Peripheral tabs E1, E2 Engagement edge S Shoulder or detent S SE 1、 SE2 free end

Claims

1. an article carrier for engaging at least one article, an engagement panel having an item retention structure configured to receive and support an item, the item retention structure having an item receiving opening with a plurality of engagement tabs, the engagement panel having a pair of opposing ends and a pair of opposing sides, the pair of opposing ends being shorter than the pair of opposing sides; An end closure structure, an end panel hingedly connected to an end of the engagement panel; an article engagement mechanism having an engagement edge for engaging an article, the engagement edge being provided by the end panel; an end closure structure comprising:

1. An article carrier comprising:

2. the end closure structure includes a second end panel hingedly connected to an opposite end of the engagement panel; The article carrier of claim 1 , wherein the article engaging mechanism comprises a second engaging edge for engaging an article, the second engaging edge being provided by the second end panel.

3. The article carrier of claim 1 , wherein the article engaging feature comprises a cut line formed at least partially on the end panel.

4. 4. The article carrier of claim 3, wherein the cut line has a first width dimension and defines an engagement edge of the end panel, the end panel in the region of the engagement edge being positioned to be supported by at least one of a plurality of engagement tabs of the article holding structure, at least one of the plurality of engagement tabs having a second engagement edge having a second width dimension, the second width dimension L2 being smaller than the first width dimension L1.

5. 4. The article carrier of claim 3, wherein the cut line is non-linear and defines a cover tab cut from the end panel and extending from a top end flap.

6. 2. The article carrier of claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of engagement tabs is hingedly connected to the engagement panel by a joint proximate a fold line hingedly connecting the end panel to the engagement panel.

7. 2. The article carrier of claim 1, wherein at least one of the plurality of engagement tabs is defined by a pair of non-linear cut lines spaced apart from a fold line hingeably connecting the end panel to the engagement panel.

8. an article carrier for engaging at least one article, an engagement panel including an item retention structure configured to receive and support an item, the item retention structure including an item receiving opening having a plurality of engagement tabs and a friction flap, the friction flap being at least partially surrounded by the engagement tabs; an end closure structure hingedly connected to the engagement panel, the end closure structure including an end panel and a top end flap hingedly connected thereto; an anchor flap hingedly connected to the top end flap; a top panel hingedly connected to the engagement panel, wherein at least a portion of each of the top panel, the anchor flap, the top end flap, and the friction flap overlap one another; 1. An article carrier comprising:

9. The article carrier of claim 8 , wherein at least a portion of the friction flap, the anchor flap, and the top end flap are interposed between an article and the top panel.

10. 9. The article carrier of claim 8, wherein the engagement panel and the top panel are hingedly connected by a side panel, and the friction flap is coupled to the engagement panel by at least one connection tab, the at least one connection tab being positioned near a fold line between the engagement panel and the side panel.

11. The article carrier of claim 10 , wherein the side panel engages at least a portion of the friction flap to urge the at least one connection tab toward or against an article within the article retention structure.

12. The article carrier of claim 10 , wherein the side panel contacts the at least one connection tab and presses the at least one connection tab against an article within the at least one article holding structure.

13. The article carrier of claim 8 , wherein the friction flap includes at least one peripheral tab for frictionally engaging an article within the article retaining structure.

14. a blank foldable into an article carrier for engaging at least one article, an engagement panel including an item retention structure configured to receive and support an item, the item retention structure including an item receiving opening having a plurality of engagement tabs and a friction flap, the friction flap being at least partially surrounded by the engagement tabs; an end closure structure hingedly connected to the engagement panel, the end closure structure including an end panel and a top end flap hingedly connected thereto; a top panel hingedly connected to the engagement panel, the top panel, the top end flap, and the friction flap being configured and positioned within the blank such that at least a portion of each overlaps one another within the article carrier; A blank comprising:

15. 15. The blank of claim 14, wherein the top panel includes an anchor flap hingedly connected thereto, the anchor flap being positioned within the article carrier between and in overlapping relationship with the top panel and the top end flap.

16. 16. The blank of claim 15, wherein portions of the friction flap, the anchor flap, and the top end flap are interposed between an article in an article carrier and the top panel.

17. 15. The blank of claim 14, wherein the engagement panel and the top panel are hingedly connected by a side panel, and the friction flap is coupled to the engagement panel by at least one connection tab, the at least one connection tab being positioned near a fold line between the engagement panel and the side panel.

18. 18. The blank of claim 17, wherein the side panel engages at least a portion of the friction flap to urge the at least one connection tab toward or against an article in the article retention structure within the article carrier.

19. 18. The blank of claim 17, wherein the side panel contacts the at least one connection tab and presses the at least one connection tab against an article in the at least one article retention structure in an article carrier.

20. 15. The blank of claim 14, wherein the friction flap comprises at least one peripheral tab for frictionally engaging an article in the article retention structure in an article carrier.

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