Article carrier and blanks therefor

Abstract

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to an article carrier (190) for packaging one or more articles and a blank (10; 110; 210; 310; 410; 510; 610; 710; 810) for forming the carrier. The carrier (190) comprises a main panel (12; 112; 212; 312; 412; 512; 612; 712; 812) having one or more article retaining structures (RT; RT1, RT2) for receiving and securing a respective article (B) thereto. Each of the article retaining structures (RT; RT1, RT2) comprises a perimeter (E1, E2). The perimeter (E1, E2) is interrupted by at least one main cutout (C1, C2, C3, C4, C5) in the form of a notch or recess and by at least one minor cutout (N1, N2, N3, N4, N5, N6, N7, N8, N9) in the form of a notch or recess, wherein at least one main cutout (C1, C2, C3, C4, C5) has a first angular dimension and at least one minor cutout (N1, N2, N3, N4, N5, N6, N7, N8, N9) has a second angular dimension, the first angular dimension being greater in magnitude than the second angular dimension.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present disclosure relates to article carriers and blanks for forming article carriers. More particularly, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to top-gripping type carriers having one or more openings for receiving and holding articles. [Background technology]

[0002] In the art of packaging, it is known to provide cartons for carrying multiple articles. Cartons are well known in the art and serve to allow consumers to transport, store and access a collection of articles for consumption. For cost and environmental considerations, such cartons or carriers should be formed from as little material as possible and should waste as little material as possible when formed. A further consideration is the strength and suitability of the carton to hold and transport large weight articles. It is desirable for the contents of the carton to be stable within the carton.

[0003] It is well known to provide top gripping article carriers where an opening is formed in a panel of the carrier, and where a tab is punched out of the panel and positioned around the opening such that when an article is received in the opening, the tab is displaced out of the plane of the panel, said tab engaging the article, generally around a flange or lip of the article. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

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

[0005] A first aspect of the present disclosure provides an article carrier for packaging at least one article. The carrier comprises a main panel having at least one article retaining structure for engaging an article. The at least one article retaining structure comprises an opening having a perimeter. The perimeter of the opening includes a first load bearing edge having a first radius of curvature and a second load bearing edge having a second radius of curvature. The second radius of curvature is greater than the first radius of curvature. The second load bearing edge is interrupted by at least one cutout such that the second load bearing edge is divided by the at least one cutout into two or more arcuate portions each having the second radius of curvature.

[0006] Optionally, two or more arcuate portions have different centers of curvature spaced apart from one another.

[0007] Optionally, the at least one cutout comprises at least two cutouts.

[0008] Optionally, each of the at least two cutouts is disposed between two or more arcuate portions.

[0009] Optionally, the second load bearing edge is located closer to a side edge of the main panel than the first load bearing edge.

[0010] Optionally, the second load bearing edge is positioned closer to the edge of the major panel than the first load bearing edge.

[0011] Optionally, the second load bearing edge is located closer to a corner of the major panel than the first load bearing edge.

[0012] A second aspect of the present disclosure provides an article-engaging carrier for packaging at least one article. The carrier comprises a major panel having at least one article retaining structure for engaging an article. The article retaining structure comprises an opening having a perimeter. The perimeter is interrupted by at least one major cutout and by at least one minor cutout. The at least one major cutout comprises a first width or a first angular dimension and the at least one minor cutout comprises a second width or a second angular dimension. The first width is greater in magnitude than the second width.

[0013] Optionally, the periphery of the opening includes a load bearing edge for engaging a top peripheral edge of an article received in the at least one article retaining structure, the load bearing edge extending between the at least one major cutout and the at least one minor cutout.

[0014] Optionally, the perimeter is defined by a first load bearing edge having a first radius of curvature and at least one second load bearing edge having a second radius of curvature, the second radius of curvature being greater than the first radius of curvature.

[0015] Optionally, the first load bearing edge is interrupted by at least one minor cutout.

[0016] Optionally, the at least one second load carrying edge is interrupted by at least one major cutout.

[0017] Optionally, the first angular dimension is between 3 and 6 times larger than the second angular dimension.

[0018] Optionally, the at least one major cutout and the at least one minor cutout each have a maximum radial dimension, the maximum radial dimension of the at least one major cutout and the maximum radial dimension of said at least one minor cutout may be equal to each other.

[0019] Optionally, the at least one major cutout comprises two or more major cutouts. The at least one second load carrying edge extends between the two or more major cutouts.

[0020] Optionally, the at least one second load bearing edge is located closer to a side edge of the main panel than the first load bearing edge.

[0021] Optionally, the at least one second load bearing edge is located closer to the edge of the main panel than the first load bearing edge.

[0022] Optionally, the at least one second load bearing edge is located closer to a corner of the major panel than the first load bearing edge.

[0023] Optionally, the at least one second load bearing edge and the first load bearing edge define an opening width of the opening, the opening width being less than a diameter of a top periphery of an article to be received in the article retaining structure.

[0024] Optionally, a maximum radial dimension of the at least one major cutout and a maximum radial dimension of the at least one minor cutout are each equal to a difference between the first radius of curvature and a radius of curvature of an upper peripheral edge of an article received in the article retaining structure.

[0025] Optionally, the radially outermost end of the at least one major cutout and the radially outermost end of the at least one minor cutout are generally disposed in a notional circle defined by the outer perimeter of the upper peripheral edge of an article acceptable to the article holding structure.

[0026] Optionally, the at least one major cutout and the at least one minor cutout are in tangential contact with a notional circle that defines an outer perimeter of a top perimeter of an article to be received in the item retaining structure, and the first load bearing edge and the second load bearing edge are disposed within the notional circle.

[0027] Optionally, the item retaining structure comprises at least three cutouts including at least one major cutout and at least one minor cutout.

[0028] Optionally, the at least one major cutout is diagonally opposite the at least one minor cutout.

[0029] Optionally, the at least one major cutout and the at least one minor cutout define an opening width substantially equal to a diameter of a top periphery of an article to be received in the item retaining structure.

[0030] Optionally, the at least one main cutout comprises at least two main cutouts, two of which are positioned orthogonal to each other.

[0031] Optionally, the at least one sub-cutout comprises at least two sub-cutouts, two of which are disposed orthogonally to each other.

[0032] Optionally, the perimeter is defined by at least two second load bearing edges each having a second radius of curvature, the second radius of curvature being greater than the first radius of curvature, and the main cutout is located at the intersection of two notional circles defining the at least two second portions.

[0033] Optionally, the intersection is located within the opening.

[0034] Optionally, the main panel comprises two or more item retaining structures, with the minor cutout of a first item retaining structure being disposed in a back-to-back relationship with the minor cutout of a second item retaining structure.

[0035] Optionally, at least one major cutout is disposed between a pair of the arcuate portions.

[0036] A third aspect of the present disclosure provides a blank for forming an article carrier for packaging at least one article. The blank comprises a main panel having at least one article retaining structure for engaging an article. The at least one article retaining structure comprises an opening having a perimeter. The perimeter of the opening includes a first load bearing edge having a first radius of curvature and a second load bearing edge having a second radius of curvature. The second radius of curvature is greater than the first radius of curvature. The second load bearing edge is interrupted by at least one cutout such that the second load bearing edge is divided by the at least one cutout into two or more arcuate portions each having the second radius of curvature.

[0037] Optionally, two or more arcuate portions have different centers of curvature spaced apart from one another.

[0038] Optionally, the at least one cutout comprises at least two cutouts, each of the at least two cutouts being disposed between two or more of the arcuate portions.

[0039] A fourth aspect of the present disclosure provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a major panel having at least one article retaining structure for engaging an article. The at least one article retaining structure comprises an opening having a perimeter. The perimeter of the opening is interrupted by at least one major cutout and by at least one minor cutout. The at least one major cutout comprises a first angular dimension and the at least one minor cutout comprises a second angular dimension. The first angular dimension is greater in magnitude than the second angular dimension.

[0040] Optionally, the periphery of the opening includes a load bearing edge for engaging a top peripheral edge of an article received in the at least one item retaining structure, the load bearing edge extending between the at least one major cutout and the at least one minor cutout.

[0041] A fifth aspect of the present disclosure provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a main panel having at least one article retaining structure for engaging an article. The at least one article retaining structure comprises an opening having a perimeter. The perimeter of the opening is interrupted by at least one cutout. A radially outermost edge of the at least one cutout is generally disposed about an outer perimeter of a top peripheral edge of an article to be received in the at least one article retaining structure.

[0042] A sixth aspect of the present disclosure provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a major panel having at least one article retaining structure for engaging an article. The at least one article retaining structure comprises an opening having a perimeter. The perimeter of the opening is interrupted by at least two cutouts including at least one major cutout and at least one minor cutout. The at least two cutouts are in tangent contact with a notional circle that defines an outer perimeter of a top perimeter of an article to be received in the at least one article retaining structure.

[0043] Additional features and advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent from the specific embodiments illustrated in the drawings and discussed below.

[0044] It is contemplated or intended that within the scope of this application, the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features, and alternatives presented in the preceding paragraphs, claims, and / or in the following description and drawings may be considered or contemplated independently or in any combination thereof.

[0045] Features or elements described in relation to or with respect to one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments, in the absence of incompatibility of features. One or more features or elements from one embodiment may be incorporated in or combined with any of the other embodiments disclosed herein, and said features or elements extracted from said one embodiment may be included in addition to or in place of one or more features or elements of said other embodiments.

[0046] Any feature or combination of features of an embodiment disclosed herein may be extracted in isolation from other features of that embodiment. Alternatively, any feature or combination of features of an embodiment may be omitted from that embodiment.

[0047] Exemplary embodiments of the present disclosure will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0048] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 11 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a second embodiment. [Diagram 3] 3 is a top perspective view of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 2; FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 13 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a third embodiment. [Figure 5A] FIG. 10 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 5B] FIG. 13 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 6A] FIG. 13 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 6B]FIG. 13 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a seventh embodiment. [Figure 7A] FIG. 13 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to an eighth embodiment. [Figure 7B] FIG. 13 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a ninth embodiment. [Figure 8A] FIG. 2 is an enlarged plan view from above of a portion of the blank of FIG. 1. [Figure 8B] FIG. 5 is an enlarged plan view from above of a portion of the blank of FIG. 4. [Figure 9A] FIG. 7B is an enlarged plan view from above of a portion of the blank of FIG. 7A. [Figure 9B] FIG. 7C is an enlarged plan view from above of a portion of the blank of FIG. 7B. [Figure 10] 4 is an enlarged perspective view from above of a portion of the carrier of FIG. 3. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0049] Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of packages, blanks, and carriers are disclosed herein. It is understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of how certain aspects of the disclosure can be implemented, and do not represent a comprehensive list of all the ways in which the disclosure can be embodied. As used herein, the word "exemplary" is used broadly to refer to an embodiment that serves as an illustration, sample, model, or pattern. Indeed, it is understood that the packages, blanks, and carriers described herein can be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale, and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show the details of specific components. Well-known components, materials, or methods are not necessarily described in great detail to avoid obscuring the disclosure. Any specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations, but merely as representative principles for the claims and to teach those skilled in the art to variously use the disclosure.

[0050] Referring to Fig. 1, there is shown a plan view of a blank 10 from which a carton or carrier (not shown) as shown in Fig. 2 can be formed for containing and carrying a group of primary products such as, but not limited to, bottles or cans, hereafter referred to as item B, as shown in Fig. 2. Item B can be generally cylindrical, and item B can have a circular cross-sectional shape, at least around the area of ​​engagement with the carrier. The blank 10 forms a secondary package for packaging at least one container or package of primary products. Alternative blanks 110; 210; 310; 410; 510; 610; 710; 810 are shown in Figs. 3-9B for forming an alternative carton or carrier 190.

[0051] In the embodiments detailed herein, the terms "carton" and "carrier" refer to a container for engaging and carrying an article, such as a primary product container, for non-limiting purposes of illustrating various features of the present disclosure. It is contemplated that the teachings of the present disclosure 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), tin cans, sachets, packets, and the like.

[0052] The blanks 10; 110; 210; 310; 410; 510; 610; 710; 810 are formed from sheets of suitable substrate. As used herein, it will be understood that the term "suitable substrate" includes all manner of foldable sheet material, such as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, etc. It should be recognized that one or other number of blanks may be used, for example, as appropriate to provide a carrier structure, which is described in more detail below.

[0053] The packaging structures or cartons described herein can be formed from sheet materials such as paperboard or corrugated board, which may be made from or coated with materials to increase their own strength. An example of such a sheet material is E-flute or F-flute corrugated board. Another example may be tear-resistant NATRALOCK® paperboard made by WestRock Company. It should be noted that the tear-resistant material may be provided by two or more layers to help improve the tear resistance of the package. Typically, one surface of the sheet material may have different properties than the other surface. For example, the surface of the sheet material facing the outside of the finished package may be particularly smooth and may have a coating such as a clay coating or other surface treatment to provide good printability. Meanwhile, the surface of the sheet material facing the inside may be provided with a coating, layer, treatment, or may be prepared to provide properties such as one or more of tear resistance, good adhesive ability, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties.

[0054] In the illustrated embodiment, the blanks 10; 110; 210; 310; 410; 510; 610; 710; 810 are configured to form a carton or carrier 190 for packaging the illustrated objects B in the illustrated arrangement. In the embodiment shown in Figures 1-5, the arrangement is a 2x2 matrix or array, with two rows of two objects B provided, and the objects B being beverage cans. In the embodiment shown in Figures 5A-9B, the arrangement is a 2x4 matrix or array, with two rows of four objects B provided, and the objects B being beverage cans. Alternatively, the blanks 10; 110; 210; 310; 410; 510; 610; 710; 810 can be configured to form carriers for packaging other types, numbers, and sizes of objects and / or for packaging objects in different arrangements or configurations.

[0055] Referring to FIG. 1, a blank 10 is shown including a main panel 12 for forming a top wall or mating panel of a carrier (not shown).

[0056] The main panel 12 includes at least one item retention structure RT. In the illustrated embodiment, the main panel 12 includes a plurality of item retention structures RT, specifically, four item retention structures RT arranged in a 2×2 matrix or array. The main panel 12 includes two columns of item retention structures RT, each column including two item retention structures RT. The main panel 12 includes two rows of item retention structures RT, each row including two item retention structures RT. Each of the item retention structures RT may include an opening A1.

[0057] Each of the article retaining structures RT is substantially similar in construction and will therefore be described in detail with reference to a first of the article retaining structures RT positioned adjacent a first end of the blank 10 as shown in FIG. 8A. The article retaining structure RT comprises an article receiving opening defined in part by an opening A1. The article retaining structure RT comprises a perimeter or engagement edge E1 defined by the opening A1. The perimeter E1 is a load-bearing edge around which an article B is supported or suspended. The article retaining structure RT may comprise at least one cutout C1, C2, N1 punched from the perimeter of the opening A1. However, the article retaining structure RT of FIG. 8A comprises at least one first or major cutout C1, C2 and at least one second or minor cutout N1. The at least one first cutout C1, C2 is larger than the at least one second cutout N1. At least one first cutout C1, C2 has a first angular width or dimension θ1 as shown in FIG. 1. At least one second cutout N1 has a second angular width or dimension θ2 as shown in FIG. 1. The first angular width or dimension θ1 is greater than the second angular width or dimension θ2. The first angular width or dimension θ1 may range from 10° to 45°, may range from 20° to 40°, may be about 31.25°. The second angular width or dimension θ2 may be less than 10°, may range from 5 to 30°, may range from 5° to 15°, may be about 7.15°. The first angular width or dimension θ1 may be at least twice as large, may be between 3 and 6 times as large, may be about 4 times as large or more than the second angular width or dimension θ2. The cutouts C1, C2, N1 reduce the application force (or radial stress) that may be applied to the major panel 12 when the carrier blank is applied to an article such as a can. Application force is an important transformation parameter that can be significantly improved with the use of cutouts such as cutouts C1, C2, N1. Reduction in application force or stress relief becomes important when tear initiation is likely to occur, such as when the MD alignment of the paperboard / corrugated fibers lines up with the stress propagation vector.FIG. 1 shows examples of optional locations of the first cutouts C1, C2 where the cutouts can effectively reduce application forces, provided that one of the notional lines XX and YY that bisect the cutouts C1, C2, respectively, is parallel to the grain / fiber direction of the main panel 12, which may optionally be formed from paperboard or corrugated board.

[0058] Referring to FIG. 8A, the periphery of the opening A1 includes four arcuate portions each providing a load-bearing edge. A first arcuate portion S is spaced apart from a first center C. e Each is centered at the first radius of curvature R a In one example, the first radius of curvature R a may be about 1.001 inches or about 25.4 mm. The first arcuate portion S is interrupted by at least one second cutout N1.

[0059] A second arcuate portion S1 is substantially diagonally opposite the second cutout N1 and has a second center C e 1 and the second circle C r1 The second radius of curvature R a 1. In one example, the second radius of curvature R a 1 may be about 1.3 inches or about 33 mm. e 1 is a corner of the main panel 12 (or a notional corner or vertex P defined by the extension of the side and end edges of the main panel 12) and a first center C e The second radius of curvature R is located on a notional line passing through the main panel 12 and the notional line may be disposed to define a 45° angle with a side or end edge of the main panel 12. a 1 is the first radius of curvature R a The second arcuate portion S1 extends between the first major cutout C1 and the second major cutout C2.

[0060] A third arcuate portion S2 is disposed between the first major cutout C1 and the first arcuate portion S and defines a transition between the first major cutout C1 and the first arcuate portion S. The third arcuate portion S2 is aligned with a third center C e 2 and the third circle C r2 The third radius of curvature R a 2. In one example, the third radius of curvature R a The third radius of curvature R may be about 1.3 inches or about 33 mm. a 2 is the first radius of curvature R a The third radius of curvature R a 2 is the second radius of curvature R a Can be equal to 1.

[0061] A fourth arcuate portion S3 is disposed between the second major cutout C2 and the first arcuate portion S and defines a transition between the second major cutout C2 and the first arcuate portion S. The fourth arcuate portion S3 is aligned with a fourth center C e 3 and the fourth circle C r3 The fourth radius of curvature R a 3. In one example, the fourth radius of curvature R a The fourth radius of curvature R may be about 1.3 inches or about 33 mm. a 3 is the first radius of curvature R a The fourth radius of curvature R a 3 is the second radius of curvature R a Can be equal to 1.

[0062] 8A shows the location of item B, which in the illustrated embodiment is a can, with dashed line NC1 indicating the location of the sidewall of the main body portion of item B and indicating the maximum diameter or width of item B. The location of the top perimeter or edge of item B is indicated by dashed line NC2. When the carrier is applied to item B, the top perimeter of item B passes through an opening in main panel 12 provided by item retaining structure RT. The perimeter may be provided by an edge perimeter, such as the edge perimeter of a canner. The perimeter has a radius of curvature R bIn one example, the periphery may have a diameter of about 2.1235 inches or about 53.9 mm and a radius of curvature R b is about 26.9 mm. The main body portion may have a diameter of about 2.6 inches or about 66 mm. The peripheral radius R b is the first radius of curvature R a The opening A1 and the major and minor cutouts C1, C2, N1 are arranged to lie within the footprint of the top periphery of the article B, and in FIG. 8A, the opening A1 and the major and minor cutouts C1, C2, N1 are arranged to lie substantially within a circle NC2. In some embodiments, the second radius of curvature R a 1. The third curvature radius R a 2, and the fourth radius of curvature R a 3 may be equal to the radius of curvature of the main body portion of the engaged article B, and the first center C e and the distance between the notional circle NC1 is shown in FIG. 8A.

[0063] A portion of the second arcuate portion S1 may coincide with or lie on a notional circle NC defined by the first arcuate portion S.

[0064] Second conceptual circle C r1 and the third conceptual circle C r2 and intersect at the midpoint of the first main cutout C1, and the midpoint of the first main cutout C1 and the first center C e defines a notional line NL1 that is perpendicular to the first edge or side edge "Se" of the main panel 12. r1 and the third circle C r2 The intersection between the second circle C and the second circle C may be located at the edge of the opening A1 defined by the first cutout C1. r1 and the third circle C r2 may be located at the apex or intersection between a notional line NL1 perpendicular to the side edge "Se" of the main panel 12 and a circle NC2 that defines the location of the perimeter of the article B.

[0065] Second Circle C r1 and the fourth circle C r3and intersect at the midpoint of the second cutout C2, and the midpoint of the second cutout C2 and the first center C e defines a notional line NL2 that is perpendicular to the second edge or end edge "Ee" of the main panel 12. r1 and the fourth circle C r3 The intersection between the second circle C and the second circle C may be located at the edge of the opening A1 defined by the second cutout C2. r1 and the fourth circle C r3 may be located at the apex or intersection between a notional line NL2 perpendicular to the edge "Ee" of the main panel 12 and a circle NC2 that defines the location of the perimeter of the article B.

[0066] The minor cutout N1 is centered on a notional line NL4 passing through the first center Ce and a corner of the main panel 12 (or a notional corner or vertex P defined by the extension of the side edge "Se" and end edge "Ee" of the main panel 12).

[0067] The centers or midpoints of the first and second main cutouts C1, C2 are orthogonally disposed and equidistantly spaced about a notional line NL4 that passes through a corner of the main panel 12 (or a notional corner or vertex P defined by the extension of the side edge "Se" and end edge "Ee" of the main panel 12). In other words, the notional line NL4 defines an axis of symmetry about which the main cutouts C1, C2 are symmetrically disposed. In alternative embodiments, or optionally, the main cutouts C1, C2 may be asymmetrically disposed about the notional line NL4.

[0068] The opposite ends of the first arcuate portion S define a notional line NL-NL, which defines a location on the perimeter E1 of the opening A1 where the radius of curvature changes. In other words, as seen in FIG. 8A, a portion of the perimeter E1 to the right below the notional line NL-NL is aligned with a first radius of curvature R a while a portion of the perimeter E1 on the upper left side of the notional line NL-NL has a second radius of curvature R a 1. R a 2. R aThe first load bearing edge or first arcuate portion S is divided into two portions by a minor cutout N1. The second load bearing edge has respective (or different) centers of curvature C spaced from each other by a first major cutout C1 and a second major cutout C2. e 1. C e 2. C e The notional line NL-NL is divided into three arcuate segments S1, S2, and S3 having a first center C e and a corner of the main panel 12 (or a notional corner or vertex P defined by the extension of the side and end edges of the main panel 12). The notional line NL-NL is located between the first center C e and the main cutouts C1, C2. In some embodiments, the notional line NL-NL is located between the first center C e may pass through.

[0069] 1, the secondary cutout N1 of the item retaining structure RT is positioned around the opening A1 at a location closest to the optional handle opening A2 which forms the carrying handle H. The handle opening A2 is punched out of the main panel 12 at the center and is centrally located in the group of four item retaining structures RT mounted on the main panel 12.

[0070] Optionally, each minor cutout N1 may be defined by an arcuate edge having a radius of curvature. In an alternative embodiment or further optionally, each minor cutout N1 may be defined by a plurality of linear edges that are angled relative to one another to form, for example, half a hexagon, half an octagon, etc.

[0071] 2-9B, additional embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. In the second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, and ninth illustrated embodiments, where possible, similar reference numerals are used to designate similar parts, but with the addition of the prefixes "100", "200", "300", "400", "500", "600", "700", "800" to indicate that those features belong to the second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, and ninth embodiments, respectively. Because the additional embodiments share many common features with the first embodiment, only the differences from the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 are described in detail.

[0072] Referring to FIG. 2, a blank 110 is shown including a main panel 112 for forming the top wall or mating panel of a carrier 190 (see FIG. 3).

[0073] The main panel 112 comprises at least one item retaining structure RT. In the embodiment shown, the main panel 112 comprises a plurality of item retaining structures RT, specifically four item retaining structures RT arranged in a 2×2 matrix or array. The main panel 112 comprises two columns of item retaining structures RT, each column comprising two item retaining structures RT. The main panel 112 comprises two rows of item retaining structures RT, each row comprising two item retaining structures RT. Each of the item retaining structures RT may comprise an opening A1.

[0074] Each of the item retaining structures RT is substantially similar in structure to the item retaining structure RT of FIG. 1, although minor cutout or notch N1 is omitted, and therefore will not be described in further detail.

[0075] FIG. 3 shows a carrier 190 formed from the blank 110, with an item B received in each of the item holding structures RT, and an area of ​​the main panel 112 disposed about the opening A1 may be deformed or displaced outwardly to accommodate the item B. The deformation, displacement, or displaced area may be interrupted by cutouts C1, C2. FIG. 10 shows an enlarged view of the item B received in the item holding structures RT, with the cutouts C1, C2 accommodating the item B while minimizing creasing, cracking, or tearing of the main panel 112, specifically, minimizing creasing, cracking, or tearing propagating outwardly, generally radially, from the opening A1. The main panel 112 remains generally planar outside of the annular area surrounding the opening A1 when the item B bears against the surface.

[0076] Referring to FIG. 4, a blank 210 is shown, including a main panel 212 for forming the top wall or mating panel of a carrier (not shown).

[0077] The main panel 212 comprises at least one item retaining structure RT. In the embodiment shown, the main panel 212 comprises a plurality of item retaining structures RT, specifically four item retaining structures RT arranged in a 2×2 matrix or array. The main panel 212 comprises two columns of item retaining structures RT, each column comprising two item retaining structures RT. The main panel 212 comprises two rows of item retaining structures RT, each row comprising two item retaining structures RT. Each of the item retaining structures RT may comprise an opening A1.

[0078] Each of the article retaining structures RT is substantially similar in structure to the article retaining structure RT of FIG. 1, although it includes a second minor cutout or indentation. The article retaining structure RT comprises a first minor cutout or indentation N2 and a second minor cutout or indentation N3, best shown in FIG. 8B. The first minor cutout or indentation N2 is disposed diagonally opposite the second major cutout C2. The second minor cutout or indentation N3 is disposed diagonally opposite the first major cutout C1. The first minor cutout or indentation N2 is disposed orthogonally to the second minor cutout or indentation N3. In FIG. 8B, a notional line NL4 defines an axis of symmetry about which the major cutouts C1, C2 and the minor cutouts N2, N3 are symmetrically disposed. In an alternative embodiment, or optionally, the main cutouts C1, C2 and the secondary cutouts N2, N3 may be arranged asymmetrically around the notional line NL4.

[0079] The first minor cutout or notch N2 is disposed in a back-to-back relationship with a first minor cutout or notch N2 of an adjacently disposed first item retaining structure RT, as best seen in FIG.

[0080] The second minor cutout or notch N3 is disposed in a back-to-back relationship with the second minor cutout or notch N3 of the adjacently disposed second item retaining structure RT. The first load bearing edge or first arcuate portion S of perimeter E1 is divided into three portions by the first minor cutout N2 and the second minor cutout N3.

[0081] Referring to FIG. 5A, a blank 310 according to a fourth embodiment is shown having a main panel 312 for forming a top wall or mating panel of a carrier (not shown).

[0082] The main panel 312 includes at least one item retention structure RT1, RT2. In the illustrated embodiment, the main panel 312 includes a plurality of item retention structures RT1, RT2, specifically eight item retention structures RT1, RT2 arranged in a 2×4 matrix or array. The main panel 312 includes four columns of item retention structures RT, each column including two item retention structures RT1, RT2. The main panel 312 includes two rows of item retention structures RT1, RT2, each row including four item retention structures RT1, RT2. Each of the item retention structures RT1, RT2 may include an opening A1, A2.

[0083] The blank 310 includes four first item retention structures RT1. The first item retention structures RT1 are positioned adjacent to the ends of the main panel 312. The blank 310 includes four second item retention structures RT2. The second item retention structures RT2 are positioned between a first pair of first item retention structures RT1 positioned adjacent to the first end of the main panel 312 and a second pair of first item retention structures RT1 positioned adjacent to the second end of the main panel 312. The second item retention structures RT2 are also referred to herein as intermediate article retention structures RT2. The first item retention structures RT1 are also referred to herein as end item retention structures RT1.

[0084] Each of the first item retaining structures RT1 is substantially similar in structure to the item retaining structures RT of the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 8A and will not be described in further detail.

[0085] Each of the second article holding structures RT2 is substantially similar in structure to the first article holding structure RT1, although the orientation of the second article holding structure RT2 is changed relative to the first article holding structure RT1. The second article holding structure RT2 has a center of the minor cutout N4 and a center C of the first arcuate portion S. e 3 and 4. The panel 312 is rotated through an angle of 45° so that a notional line passing through "Se" is perpendicular to the longitudinal or side edge "Se" of the main panel 312.

[0086] The main panel 313 may include multiple handle openings A2. The illustrated embodiment includes three handle openings A2. Each handle opening is located in the center of a group of four item retaining structures RT1, RT2.

[0087] Referring to FIG. 5B, a blank 410 according to a fifth embodiment is shown, including a main panel 412 for forming a top wall or mating panel of a carrier (not shown).

[0088] The main panel 412 includes at least one item retention structure RT1, RT2. In the illustrated embodiment, the main panel 412 includes a plurality of item retention structures RT1, RT2, specifically eight item retention structures RT1, RT2 arranged in a 2×4 matrix or array. The main panel 412 includes four columns of item retention structures RT, each column including two item retention structures RT1, RT2. The main panel 412 includes two rows of item retention structures RT1, RT2, each row including four item retention structures RT1, RT2. Each of the item retention structures RT1, RT2 may include an opening A1, A2.

[0089] Each of the first item retaining structures RT1 is substantially similar in structure to the item retaining structures RT of the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 8A and will not be described in further detail.

[0090] Each of the second article retention structures RT2 is substantially similar in structure to the article retention structure RT of the embodiment shown in Figures 4 and 8B, although the orientation of the second article retention structure RT2 has been changed relative to the article retention structure RT in Figures 4 and 8B. The second article retention structure RT2 is aligned with the first load-bearing edge or center C of the first arcuate portion S. e and the center C of the second arcuate portion S1 e 1 is rotated through an angle of 45° so that a notional line passing through 1 is perpendicular to the longitudinal or side edge "Se" of the main panel 412.

[0091] Referring to FIG. 6A, a blank 510 according to a sixth embodiment is shown, including a main panel 512 for forming a top wall or mating panel of a carrier (not shown).

[0092] The main panel 512 includes at least one item retention structure RT1, RT2. In the illustrated embodiment, the main panel 512 includes a plurality of item retention structures RT1, RT2, specifically eight item retention structures RT1, RT2 arranged in a 2×4 matrix or array. The main panel 512 includes four columns of item retention structures RT, each column including two item retention structures RT1, RT2. The main panel 512 includes two rows of item retention structures RT1, RT2, each row including four item retention structures RT1, RT2. Each of the item retention structures RT1, RT2 may include an opening A1, A2.

[0093] The blank 510 comprises four first article retention structures RT1. The first article retention structures RT1 are positioned adjacent to the ends of the main panel 512. The blank 510 comprises four second article retention structures RT2. The second article retention structures RT2 are positioned between a first pair of first article retention structures RT1 positioned adjacent to the first end of the main panel 512 and a second pair of first article retention structures RT1 positioned adjacent to the second end of the main panel 512. The second article retention structures RT2 are also referred to herein as intermediate article retention structures RT2. The first article retention structures RT1 are also referred to herein as end article retention structures RT1.

[0094] Each of the first item retaining structures RT1 is substantially similar in structure to the item retaining structures RT of the embodiment shown in Figures 4 and 8B and will not be described in further detail.

[0095] Each of the second item retaining structures RT2 is substantially similar in construction to the second item retaining structures RT2 of the embodiment of FIG. 5A and will not be described in further detail.

[0096] Referring to FIG. 6B, a blank 610 according to a seventh embodiment is shown, including a main panel 612 for forming a top wall or mating panel of a carrier (not shown).

[0097] The main panel 612 includes at least one item retention structure RT1, RT2. In the illustrated embodiment, the main panel 612 includes a plurality of item retention structures RT1, RT2, specifically eight item retention structures RT1, RT2 arranged in a 2×4 matrix or array. The main panel 612 includes four columns of item retention structures RT, each column including two item retention structures RT1, RT2. The main panel 612 includes two rows of item retention structures RT1, RT2, each row including four item retention structures RT1, RT2. Each of the item retention structures RT1, RT2 may include an opening A1, A2.

[0098] Each of the first item retaining structures RT1 is substantially similar in structure to the item retaining structures RT of the embodiment shown in Figures 4 and 8B and will not be described in further detail.

[0099] Each of the second item retaining structures RT2 is substantially similar in construction to the second item retaining structures RT2 of the embodiment of FIG. 5B and will not be described in further detail.

[0100] Referring to FIG. 7A, there is shown a blank 710 according to an eighth embodiment, including a main panel 712 for forming a top wall or mating panel of a carrier (not shown).

[0101] The main panel 712 includes at least one item retention structure RT1, RT2. In the illustrated embodiment, the main panel 712 includes a plurality of item retention structures RT1, RT2, specifically eight item retention structures RT1, RT2 arranged in a 2×4 matrix or array. The main panel 712 includes four columns of item retention structures RT, each column including two item retention structures RT1, RT2. The main panel 712 includes two rows of item retention structures RT1, RT2, each row including four item retention structures RT1, RT2. Each of the item retention structures RT1, RT2 may include an opening A1, A2.

[0102] The blank 710 comprises four first item retaining structures RT1. The first item retaining structures RT1 are positioned adjacent to the ends of the main panel 712. The blank 710 comprises four second item retaining structures RT2. The second item retaining structures RT2 are positioned between a first pair of first item retaining structures RT1 positioned adjacent to a first end of the main panel 712 and a second pair of first item retaining structures RT1 positioned adjacent to a second end of the main panel 712. The second item retaining structures RT2 are also referred to herein as intermediate article retaining structures RT2. The first item retaining structures RT1 are also referred to herein as end item retaining structures RT1.

[0103] Each of the first item retaining structures RT1 is substantially similar in structure to the item retaining structures RT of the embodiment shown in Figures 4 and 8B and will not be described in further detail.

[0104] Each of the second article holding structures RT2 is substantially similar in structure and will be described in further detail with reference to the second article holding structure RT2 shown in FIG. 9A. The second article holding structure RT2 comprises an article receiving opening defined in part by the second opening A2. The second article holding structure RT2 comprises a perimeter E2 defined by the second opening A2. The perimeter E2 is a load-bearing edge on which the article B is supported or suspended. The second article holding structure RT2 comprises at least one cutout C5, N7, N8, N9 punched from the perimeter of the second opening A2. The second article holding structure RT2 of FIG. 9A comprises a first or main cutout C5 and at least one second or secondary cutout N7, N8, N9. The illustrated embodiment comprises three secondary cutouts N7, N8, N9. The first cutout C5 is larger than the at least one second cutout N7, N8, N9. The first cutout C5 has a first angular width or dimension. At least one second cutout N7, N8, N9 has a second angular width or dimension. The first angular width or dimension is greater than the second angular width or dimension. The first angular width or dimension may range from 10° to 45°, and may be about 31.25°. The second angular width or dimension may be less than 10°, may range from 5 to 30°, and may be about 7.15°. The first angular width or dimension may be at least twice as large as the second angular width or dimension, and may be between 3 and 6 times as large.

[0105] The first minor cutout N7 is diagonally opposite the main cutout C5. The second minor cutout N8 is diagonally opposite the third cutout N9. The second minor cutout N8 and the third minor cutout N9 are disposed orthogonally to the first minor cutout N7 and the main cutout C5, respectively.

[0106] The opening A2 has three arcuate portions. A first arcuate portion S is spaced apart from a first center C. e a first radius of curvature R each centered at and defining a first notional circle NC aThe first arcuate portion S is interrupted by three minor or secondary cutouts N7, N8, N9.

[0107] center C e and the center or midpoint of the main cutout C5 is perpendicular to the side edge "Se" of the main panel 712.

[0108] The second arcuate portion S5 provides a transition between the first arcuate portion S and the main cutout C5. The second arcuate portion S5 is aligned with the second center C5. e 5 and the second conceptual circle C r5 The second radius of curvature R a 5. The second radius of curvature R a 5 is the first radius of curvature R a Greater than.

[0109] The third arcuate portion S6 provides a transition between the first arcuate portion S and the main cutout C5. The third arcuate portion S6 is aligned with the third center C e 6, the third conceptual circle C r6 The third radius of curvature R a 6. The third radius of curvature R a 6 is the first radius of curvature R a The third radius of curvature R a 6 is the second radius of curvature R a Can be equal to 5.

[0110] The first conceptual circle NC and the second conceptual circle C r5 and the position of intersection between the first circle NC and the third conceptual circle C r6 The location of the intersection between defines a notional line NL-NL that extends parallel to the side edge "Se" of the main panel 712. As can be seen in FIG. 9A, the portion of the perimeter E2 of the opening A2 above the notional line NL-NL deviates from being a circle. In other words, the portion of the perimeter E2 below the notional line NL-NL deviates from being a circle. awhile the portion of the perimeter E2 above the notional line NL-NL has a center C e 5. C e 6 respectively having a larger radius of curvature R a 5. R a 6. The notional line NL-NL is aligned with the first center C e and the main cutout C5.

[0111] The centers of cutouts C5, N7, N8, and N9 define quadrants I, II, III, and IV of the first circle NC. The first quadrant I and the second quadrant II are disposed proximate to the side or longitudinal edge "Se" of the main panel 712. The third quadrant III and the fourth quadrant IV are disposed distally from the side or longitudinal edge "Se" of the main panel 712. The second center C e 5 is located in the third quadrant III. e 6 is located in the fourth quadrant, IV.

[0112] 9A shows the location of item B, which in the illustrated embodiment is a can, with dashed line NC1 indicating the location of the sidewall of the main body portion of item B and indicating the maximum diameter or width of item B. The location of the perimeter or edge of item B is indicated by dashed line NC2, where the perimeter of item B passes through an opening in the main panel 712 provided by the second item retaining structure RT2. The perimeter may be provided by an edge perimeter, such as the edge perimeter of a canner. The perimeter has a radius of curvature R b The radius of the perimeter R b is the first radius of curvature R a The second opening A2 and the primary and secondary cutouts C5, N7, N8, N9 are arranged to lie within the peripheral footprint of the article B, and in FIG. 9A, the second opening A2 and the primary and secondary cutouts C5, N7, N8, N9 are arranged to lie substantially within the circle NC2.

[0113] Second Circle C r5 and the third circle C r6and intersect at the midpoint of the first cutout C5, and the midpoint of the first cutout C1 and the first center C e defines a notional line that is perpendicular to a first edge or edge of the main panel 712.

[0114] The first secondary cutout N7 is located at the first center C e and the midpoint of the first cutout C5.

[0115] Referring to FIG. 9B, a blank 810 according to a ninth embodiment is shown, including a main panel 812 for forming a top wall or mating panel of a carrier (not shown).

[0116] The main panel 812 includes at least one item retention structure RT1, RT2. In the illustrated embodiment, the main panel 812 includes a plurality of item retention structures RT1, RT2, specifically eight item retention structures RT1, RT2 arranged in a 2×4 matrix or array. The main panel 812 includes four columns of item retention structures RT, each column including two item retention structures RT1, RT2. The main panel 812 includes two rows of item retention structures RT1, RT2, each row including four item retention structures RT1, RT2. Each of the item retention structures RT1, RT2 may include an opening A1, A2.

[0117] The blank 810 comprises four first item retaining structures RT1. The first item retaining structures RT1 are positioned adjacent to the ends of the main panel 812. The blank 810 comprises four second item retaining structures RT2. The second item retaining structures RT2 are positioned between a first pair of first item retaining structures RT1 positioned adjacent to a first end of the main panel 812 and a second pair of first item retaining structures RT1 positioned adjacent to a second end of the main panel 812. The second item retaining structures RT2 are also referred to herein as intermediate article retaining structures RT2. The first item retaining structures RT1 are also referred to herein as end item retaining structures RT1.

[0118] Each of the first item retaining structures RT1 is substantially similar in structure to the item retaining structures RT of the embodiment shown in Figures 4 and 8B and will not be described in further detail.

[0119] Each of the second article holding structures RT2 is substantially similar in structure and will be described in further detail with reference to the second article holding structure RT2 shown in Figures 7A and 9A, except that one of the minor cutouts N7, N8, N9 is omitted and the circumferential position of the remaining cutouts is changed. The second article holding structure RT2 in Figures 7B and 9B comprises an article receiving opening defined by a second opening A2. The second article holding structure RT2 comprises a perimeter or engagement edge E2 defined by the second opening A2. The second article holding structure RT2 comprises at least one cutout C5, N5, N6 punched out from the perimeter of the second opening A2. However, the second article holding structure RT2 in Figure 9B comprises a first or main cutout C5 and at least one second or minor cutout N5, N6. The illustrated embodiment of Figure 9B comprises two minor cutouts N5, N6. The first or major cutout C5 has a larger angular dimension than the second or minor cutouts N5, N6. The first cutout C5 has a first angular width or dimension. The second cutouts N5, N6 each have a second angular width or dimension. The first angular width or dimension is larger than the second angular width or dimension. The first angular width or dimension may range from 10° to 45°, and may be about 31.25°. The second angular width or dimension may be less than 10°, may range from 5 to 30°, and may be about 7.15°. The first angular width or dimension may be at least twice as large as the second angular width or dimension, and may be about three or four times as large.

[0120] 9B, the first minor cutout N5 is provided in an orthogonal relationship to the second minor cutout N6, i.e., the first minor cutout N5 and the second minor cutout N6 are spaced apart at an angle of 90° around the periphery of the second opening A2. eA first notional line NL5 passing through bisects the first load-bearing edge or first arcuate portion S of the perimeter E2 of the second opening A2 and also bisects the angle between the first minor cutout N5 and the second minor cutout N6.

[0121] The first arched portion S has a first center C e a first radius of curvature R each centered at and defining a first circle NC a The first arcuate portion S is interrupted by secondary cutouts N5, N6, dividing it into three portions.

[0122] center C e A first notional line NL5 passing through and the center or midpoint of the main cutout C5 is perpendicular to the side edge "Se" of the main panel 812.

[0123] The second item retaining structure RT2 of Figure 9B includes second and third arcuate portions S5 and S6 arranged similarly to those of the embodiment of Figure 9A.

[0124] The second article retaining structure RT2 comprises four quadrants I, II, III, IV of the first circle NC. The quadrants are spaced apart by a center C e and a notional line passing through the center or midpoint of the main cutout C5 and perpendicular to the side edge "Se" of the main panel 812, and a center C of a notional circle NC perpendicular to the first notional line. e and a second notional line passing through the first center C. The first and second quadrants I and II are disposed proximate to a side or longitudinal edge "Se" of the main panel 812. The third and fourth quadrants III and IV are disposed distally from the side or longitudinal edge "Se" of the main panel 812. The second center C e 5 is located in the third quadrant III. e 6 is located in the fourth quadrant, IV.

[0125] 9B shows the location of item B, which in the illustrated embodiment is a can, with dashed line NC1 indicating the location of the sidewall of the main body portion of item B and indicating the maximum diameter or width of item B. The location of the perimeter or edge of item B is indicated by dashed line NC2, where the perimeter of item B passes through an opening in the main panel 812 provided by the second item retaining structure RT2. The perimeter may be provided by an edge perimeter, such as the edge perimeter of a canner. The perimeter has a radius of curvature R b The radius of the perimeter R b is the first radius of curvature R a The second opening A2 and the primary and secondary cutouts C5, N5, N6 are positioned to lie within the peripheral footprint of the article B, and in FIG. 9A, the second opening A2 and the primary and secondary cutouts C5, N5, N6 are positioned to lie substantially within the circle NC2.

[0126] The pair of minor cutouts N5, N6 can be considered to be generally located opposite the major cutout C5.

[0127] In Figure 9B, the first notional line NL5 defines an axis of symmetry about which the main and minor cutouts C5, N5, N6 are symmetrically disposed. In alternative embodiments, or optionally, the main and minor cutouts C5, N5, N6 may be asymmetrically disposed about the first notional line NL5.

[0128] The blanks 10; 110; 210; 310; 410; 510; 610; 710; 810 include at least a paperboard substrate. In embodiments in which each blank includes more than one substrate, the two or more substrates may optionally be laminated together before the carrier blank is die cut. The paperboard substrate material may be selected from any conventional paperboard having a weight ranging from, for example, about 10 pt. and up, preferably above about 16 pt., to about 28 pt. (0.028 in. / about 0.7 mm). Examples of such substrates are 27 point (pt.) SBS cardboard (solid bleached sulfate board coated on one side under the trade name PrintKote®) or CNK® cardboard (Coated Natural Kraft® - unbleached kraft board with a clay coat on one side under the trade name CarrierKote™) manufactured by WestRock® Company, 21 point (pt.) SBS cardboard or CNK® cardboard, and E-flute or F-flute corrugated board. The cardboard substrate can be bleached or unbleached cardboard. The cardboard may be coated on at least one side, optionally opposite the lamination, with a conventional coating selected for compatibility with the printing method and cardboard composition.

[0129] The blank 10;110;210;310;410;510;610;710;810 may include a tear-resistant layer laminated to the paperboard layer. The blank 10;110;210;310;410;510;610;710;810 may optionally include an adhesive layer between the paperboard substrate and the tear-resistant layer. The tear-resistant layer may be disposed over 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, but are not limited to, tear-resistant laminate sheet materials such as NATRALOCK®, which may include layers of biaxially oriented polyester, oriented nylon, cross-laminated polyolefin, or n-axis oriented membranes such as MYLAR®, a high density polyolefin. The orientation and cross-lamination structure of these materials contribute to the tear resistance properties, which may also be attributed to the chemistry of the tear resistant materials, such as extruded metallocene-catalyzed polyethylene (mPE).

[0130] Alternatively, the tear resistant layer may be a layer of linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE). In embodiments where linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) or mPE is used, it is not necessary to incorporate an adhesive layer. Other suitable materials having a high degree of tear resistance may be used.

[0131] The adhesive layer may be formed from a polyolefin material, such as low density polyethylene (LDPE). The adhesive layer may be disposed between the substrate and the tear resistant layer to secure the tear resistant layer to the substrate.

[0132] The present disclosure provides a carrier 190 of an upper engaging type having article retaining structures RT; RT1, RT2 for engaging an article B, and blanks 10; 110; 210; 310; 410; 510; 610; 710; 810 for forming the article retaining structures RT; RT1, RT2.

[0133] The carrier 190 comprises a main panel 12; 112; 212; 312; 412; 512; 612; 712; 812 having one or more article retaining structures RT; RT1, RT2 for receiving and hanging respective articles B.

[0134] The article retaining structures RT; RT1, RT2 each have a perimeter or engagement edge E1, E2, the perimeter E1, E2 being interrupted by at least one main cutout C1, C2, C3, C4, C5 in the form of a notch or recess and at least one minor cutout N1, N2, N3, N4, N5, N6, N7, N8, N9 in the form of a notch or recess. At least one main cutout C1, C2, C3, C4, C5 has a first width and at least one minor cutout N1, N2, N3, N4, N5, N6, N7, N8, N9 has a second width. The first width is greater in magnitude than the second width. At least one major cutout C1, C2, C3, C4, C5 comprises or defines a first angular width and at least one minor cutout N1, N2, N3, N4, N5, N6, N7, N8, N9 comprises or defines a second width, the first angular width being greater in magnitude than the second angular width. The first angular width may be between 3 and 6 times greater in magnitude than the second angular width.

[0135] At least one main cutout C1, C2, C3, C4, C5 and at least one minor cutout N1, N2, N3, N4, N5, N6, N7, N8, N9 each have a depth or radial dimension, and a maximum radial dimension of the at least one main cutout C1, C2, C3, C4, C5 and a maximum radial dimension of the at least one minor cutout N1, N2, N3, N4, N5, N6, N7, N8, N9 may be equal to each other.

[0136] The article retaining structures RT; RT1, RT2 each have an engagement edge or perimeter E1, E2, the perimeters E1, E2 having a first radius of curvature R a a first load-bearing edge S having a second radius of curvature R a 1. R a 2. R a 3. R a 5. Ra 6, the second radius of curvature being greater than the first radius of curvature.

[0137] The perimeters E1 and E2 have a first radius of curvature R a a first load-bearing edge S having a second radius of curvature R a 1. R a 2. R a 3. R a 5. R a 6, where the second radius of curvature is greater than the first radius of curvature.

[0138] The perimeters E1 and E2 have a first radius of curvature R a a first load-bearing edge S having a second radius of curvature R a 1. R a 2. R a 3. R a 5. R a 6, where the second radius of curvature is greater than the first radius of curvature.

[0139] The first load-bearing edge S may be interrupted by or may comprise at least one secondary cutout N1, N2, N3, N4, N5, N6, N7, N8, N9.

[0140] The second load carrying edge S1, S2, S3, S5, S6 may be interrupted by or comprise at least one main cut-out C1, C2, C3, C4, C5.

[0141] At least one arcuate portion S1, S2, S3, S5, S6 may extend between a pair of major cutouts C1 / C2, C3 / C4.

[0142] The second load bearing edge S1, S2, S3, S5, S6 may be positioned closer to a side edge of the main panel 12; 112; 212; 312; 412; 512; 612; 712; 812 than the first load bearing edge S.

[0143] The second load bearing edges S1, S2, S3, S5, S6 may be positioned closer to the edge of the main panel 12; 112; 212; 312; 412; 512; 612; 712; 812 than the first load bearing edges S.

[0144] The second load bearing edges S1, S2, S3, S5, S6 may be positioned closer to a corner of the main panel 12; 112; 212; 312; 412; 512; 612; 712; 812 than the first load bearing edges S.

[0145] The second load carrying edge S1, S2, S3, S5, S6 and the first load carrying edge S together define an opening A1, A2 having a width or diameter less than the diameter or width of the upper peripheral edge of the article B to be received in the article retaining structure RT; RT1, RT2.

[0146] The maximum radial dimension of the at least one main cutout C1, C2, C3, C4, C5 and the maximum radial dimension of the at least one secondary cutout N1, N2, N3, N4, N5, N6, N7, N8, N9 are determined by the radius of curvature R of the part of the article B received in the article holding structure RT; RT1, RT2. b and the first radius of curvature R a may be approximately equal to the difference between

[0147] The article retaining structure RT; RT1, RT2 may have at least three main cutouts C1, C2, C3, C4, C5, N1, N2, N3, N4, N5, N6, N7, N8, N9 including at least one main cutout C1, C2, C3, C4, C5 and at least one secondary cutout N1, N2, N3, N4, N5, N6, N7, N8, N9.

[0148] The article retaining structure RT; RT1, RT2 may include at least one major cutout C1, C2, C3, C4, C5 disposed opposite at least one minor cutout N1, N2, N3, N4, N5, N6, N7, N8, N9. In some such embodiments, the at least one major cutout C1, C2, C3, C4, C5 and the at least one minor cutout N1, N2, N3, N4, N5, N6, N7, N8, N9 may define an opening having a width or diameter substantially equal to a diameter or width of a top periphery of an article B to be received in the article retaining structure RT; RT1, RT2.

[0149] The article retaining structure RT; RT1, RT2 may comprise at least two main cutouts C1, C2, C3, C4, C5 arranged perpendicular to each other.

[0150] The article retaining structure RT; RT1, RT2 may comprise at least two secondary cutouts N1, N2, N3, N4, N5, N6, N7, N8, N9 arranged perpendicular to each other.

[0151] The present disclosure also provides a carrier 190 comprising a main panel 12; 112; 212; 312; 412; 512; 612; 712; 812 having one or more item retaining structures RT; RT1 for receiving and securing respective items B.

[0152] The article retaining structures RT;RT1 each include an engagement edge or perimeter E1, which may be optionally interrupted by at least two cutouts C1, C2 in the form of notches or recesses. The first cutout C1 is disposed perpendicular to the second cutout C2. The first cutout C1 is interrupted by a portion of the perimeter E1 disposed closest to a side edge of the main panel 12;112;212;312;412;512;612;712;812. The second cutout C2 is interrupted by a portion of the perimeter E1 disposed closest to an edge of the main panel 12;112;212;312;412;512;612;712;812, said edge being disposed adjacent to the side edge.

[0153] The perimeter E1 has a first radius of curvature R a a first load-bearing edge S having a second radius of curvature R a 1. R a 2. R a 3. R a 5. R a 6, where the second radius of curvature is greater than the first radius of curvature.

[0154] The perimeters E1 each have a second radius of curvature R a 1. R a 2. R a 3. R a 5. R a 6 and may include arcuate portions S1, S2, S3, S5, S6 disposed on opposite sides of cutouts C1, C2, C5.

[0155] The perimeter E1 has a second radius of curvature R a 1. R a 2. R a 3. R a 5. R a 6, and a first center of curvature C on a first side of the cutouts C1, C2, C5. e 1. C e 2. C e 3. C e 5. C e 6, and a second radius of curvature R a 1. R a 2. R a 3. R a 5. R a 6, and a second center of curvature C on a second side of the cutouts C1, C2, C5. e 1. C e 2. C e 3. C e 5. C e 6, with two of the arcuate portions S1, S2, S3, S5, S6 adjacent or sandwiching the cutouts C1, C2, C5.

[0156] The second load carrying edge S1, S2, S3, S5, S6 may be interrupted by or comprise at least two cut out portions C1, C2.

[0157] An embodiment of the present disclosure provides an article retaining structure RT; RT1, RT2 for receiving an article B having an engagement feature such as, but not limited to, a flange, rim, undercut, protrusion, or projection, wherein the engagement feature has a circular cross-section.

[0158] It will be understood that various modifications can be made within the scope of this disclosure. For example, the size and shape of the panels and openings can be adjusted to accommodate items of different sizes or shapes. Shoulder panels may be omitted. This disclosure is not limited to top-engaging types of cartons, and this disclosure may be used with other carton styles, such as, but not limited to, open top crates, lidded or closed top crates.

[0159] It will be appreciated that as used herein, references to directions such as "top," "bottom," "bottom," "front," "back," "end," "side," "inward," "outward," "above," and "below" do not necessarily limit each panel to such orientation, but may merely serve to distinguish these panels from one another. [Explanation of symbols]

[0160] 10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810 Blank 12, 112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612, 712, 812 Main Panel 190 cartons, carriers I, II, III, IV Quadrants of the first circle NC A1 opening A2 Handle opening, opening B Goods C1 first or main cutout, first main cutout C2 First or main cutout, second main cutout C5 First or main cutout C e First Center C e 1. The Second Center C e 2. The Third Center C e 3. The Fourth Center C e 5. The Second Center C e 6. The Third Center C r1 Second Circle C r2 The third circle C r3 The Fourth Circle C r5 The second conceptual circle C r6 The third conceptual circle E1, E2 periphery, engagement edge Ee second edge, edge H Carrying handle N1 Second or secondary cutout N2 First minor cutout or notch N3 Second minor cutout or notch N4 Secondary cutout N7, N8, N9 Second or Secondary Cutouts NC Conceptual Circle NC1 Position of the side wall of the main body of item B NC2 Position of the upper periphery or edge of item B NL-NL conceptual line NL1 Conceptual Line NL2 Conceptual Line NL4 Conceptual Line NL5 First conceptual line N5, N6 Second or secondary cutout P conceptual corner or vertex R a First radius of curvature R a 1. R a 2. R a 3. R a 5. Ra 6 Second radius of curvature R b Edge curvature radius RT article holding structure RT1 First article holding structure, end article holding structure RT2 Second article holding structure, intermediate article holding structure S: Bow, first load-bearing edge S1, S2, S3, S5, S6: Bowed section, second load-bearing edge Se First edge, side edge θ1 Width or dimension of the first angle θ2 Width or dimension of the second angle

Claims

1. 1. An article carrier for packaging at least one article, the article carrier comprising: a main panel having at least one article retention structure for engaging an article; the at least one article retention structure having an opening having a perimeter, the perimeter including a first load-bearing edge having a first radius of curvature and a second load-bearing edge having a second radius of curvature, the second radius of curvature being greater than the first radius of curvature; the second load-bearing edge being positioned closer to a side edge of the main panel than the first load-bearing edge; the second load-bearing edge being positioned closer to an end edge of the main panel than the first load-bearing edge; and the second load-bearing edge being interrupted by at least one cutout so as to be divided by the at least one cutout into two or more arcuate portions, each having the second radius of curvature.

2. The article carrier of claim 1 , wherein the two or more arcuate portions have different centers of curvature spaced apart from one another.

3. The article carrier of claim 1 , wherein the at least one cutout comprises at least two cutouts.

4. The article carrier of claim 3 , wherein each of the at least two cutouts is disposed between the two or more arcuate portions.

5. The article carrier of claim 1 , wherein the second load-bearing edge is positioned closer to a corner of the main panel than the first load-bearing edge.

6. 1. A blank for forming an article carrier for packaging at least one article, the blank comprising a main panel having at least one article retention structure for engaging an article, the at least one article retention structure having an opening having a perimeter, the perimeter including a first load-bearing edge having a first radius of curvature and a second load-bearing edge having a second radius of curvature, the second radius of curvature being greater than the first radius of curvature, the second load-bearing edge being positioned closer to a side edge of the main panel than the first load-bearing edge, the second load-bearing edge being positioned closer to an end edge of the main panel than the first load-bearing edge, the second load-bearing edge being interrupted by at least one cutout so as to be divided by the at least one cutout into two or more arcuate portions, each having the second radius of curvature.

7. The blank of claim 6 , wherein the two or more arcuate portions have different centers of curvature that are spaced apart from one another.

8. The blank of claim 6 , wherein the at least one cutout comprises at least two cutouts.

9. The blank of claim 8 , wherein each of the at least two cutouts is disposed between two or more second load-bearing edges.

10. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a main panel having at least one article retaining structure for engaging an article, the at least one article retaining structure having an opening with a perimeter, the perimeter being interrupted by at least one major cutout and at least one minor cutout, the at least one major cutout having a first angular dimension and the at least one minor cutout having a second angular dimension, the first angular dimension being greater than the second angular dimension, and the radially outermost ends of the at least one major cutout and the at least one minor cutout being generally positioned around the outer perimeter of an upper peripheral edge of an article to be received in the at least one article retaining structure.

11. The carrier of claim 1 , wherein the at least one cutout is symmetrically disposed about an axis of symmetry.

12. The carrier of claim 1 , wherein the at least one cutout is asymmetrically disposed about a notional line.

13. The blank of claim 6 , wherein the at least one cutout is symmetrically or asymmetrically positioned about a notional line.

14. A blank as described in claim 10, wherein the opening includes a load-bearing edge for engaging an upper peripheral edge of an article to be received in the at least one article holding structure, the load-bearing edge extending between the at least one main cutout portion and the at least one minor cutout portion.

15. A blank as described in claim 10, wherein the at least one main cutout and the at least one minor cutout are arranged symmetrically or asymmetrically around a notional line.

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