Container carrier

Abstract

A carrier for holding a plurality of containers includes a plurality of panels including a mounting panel, a first side panel foldably connected to the mounting panel, and a second side panel foldably connected to the mounting panel, a container retention mechanism including a plurality of container openings in the mounting panel for at least partially receiving respective containers of the plurality of containers, and a locking mechanism for maintaining a secure engagement between the carrier and the plurality of containers, the locking mechanism including at least one locking tab foldably connected to one of the first and second side panels and at least one locking notch that at least partially receives the at least one locking tab, the at least one locking notch being disposed on the other of the first and second side panels.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 345,965, filed May 26, 2022.

[0002] Incorporation by reference The disclosures of each of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 345,965, filed May 26, 2022, and U.S. Design Patent Application No. 29 / 893,006, filed May 24, 2023, are incorporated by reference into this specification for all purposes, as if set forth in their entireties herein.

[0003] Background of the disclosure FIELD OF THE DISCLOSURE This disclosure relates generally to cartons or carriers for holding, displaying, and / or transporting containers. Summary of the Invention

[0004] According to one aspect, the present disclosure generally relates to a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the carrier comprising a plurality of panels including a mounting panel, a first side panel foldably connected to the mounting panel, and a second side panel foldably connected to the mounting panel, a container retention mechanism comprising a plurality of container openings in the mounting panel for at least partially receiving respective containers of the plurality of containers, and a locking mechanism for maintaining a secure engagement between the carrier and the plurality of containers, the locking mechanism including at least one locking tab foldably connected to one of the first and second side panels and at least one locking notch that at least partially receives the at least one locking tab, the locking notch being disposed on the other of the first and second side panels.

[0005] According to another aspect, the present disclosure generally relates to a blank for forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the blank including a plurality of panels including an attachment panel, a first side panel foldably connected to the attachment panel, and a second side panel foldably connected to the attachment panel; a container retaining feature including a plurality of container openings in the attachment panel for at least partially receiving respective containers of the plurality of containers when the carrier is formed from the blank; and a locking mechanism for maintaining secure engagement between the carrier and the plurality of containers when the carrier is formed from the blank, the locking mechanism including at least one locking tab foldably connected to one of the first and second side panels and at least one locking notch for at least partially receiving the at least one locking tab when the carrier is formed from the blank, the at least one locking notch being disposed in the other of the first and second side panels.

[0006] According to another aspect, the disclosure generally relates to a method of forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the method including obtaining a blank, the blank including a plurality of panels including an attachment panel, a first side panel foldably connected to the attachment panel, and a second side panel foldably connected to the attachment panel, the blank further including a container retention mechanism including a plurality of container openings in the attachment panel, the blank further including a locking mechanism including at least one locking tab foldably connected to one of the first and second side panels and at least one locking notch disposed in the other of the first and second side panels, the method including positioning the at least one locking tab to at least partially receive the at least one locking tab.

[0007] According to another aspect, the present disclosure generally relates to a package including a plurality of containers. The package includes a plurality of panels including a mounting panel, a first side panel foldably connected to the mounting panel, and a second side panel foldably connected to the mounting panel, a container retention mechanism including a plurality of container openings in the mounting panel that at least partially receive respective containers of the plurality of containers, and a locking mechanism that maintains a secure engagement between the carrier and the plurality of containers. The locking mechanism includes at least one locking tab foldably connected to one of the first and second side panels and at least one locking notch that at least partially receives the at least one locking tab, the at least one locking notch being disposed on the other of the first and second side panels.

[0008] Those skilled in the art will appreciate the above advantages and other advantages and benefits of various additional embodiments upon reading the following detailed description of the embodiments with reference to the drawings listed below: It is within the scope of this disclosure that the above-discussed aspects are provided both individually and in various combinations.

[0009] According to common practice, the various features of the drawings discussed below are not necessarily drawn to scale. Dimensions of various features and elements in the drawings may be expanded or reduced to more clearly illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank for forming a carrier according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 2] 2 is a perspective view of a portion of a system for forming a carrier and package from the blank of FIG. 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 3] FIG. 3 is an enlarged view of a portion of the system of FIG. 2. [Figure 4]2 is a perspective view of a package and carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 1 according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Diagram 5] FIG. 13 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank for forming a package and carrier according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 6] 6 is a perspective view of a package and carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 5 according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] Corresponding parts are designated by corresponding reference numbers throughout the drawings.

[0012] The present disclosure generally relates to carriers, packages, structures, sleeves, cartons, and the like for holding and displaying containers such as jars, bottles, cans, and the like. The containers can be used, for example, to package food and beverage products. The containers can be made from materials suitable for the composition for packaging the particular food or beverage item, including, but not limited to, glass, PET, LDPE, LLDPE, HDPE, PP, PS, PVC, EVOH, plastics such as nylon, aluminum and / or other metals, or any combination thereof.

[0013] A package according to the present disclosure can accommodate containers of many different shapes. For purposes of illustration and not for purposes of limiting the scope of the disclosure, the following detailed description describes a beverage container (e.g., a generally cylindrical container such as an aluminum can) at least partially disposed within an embodiment of the package. As used herein, the terms "lower," "bottom," "upper," and "top" refer to orientations determined with respect to a fully assembled package.

[0014] 1 is a plan view of an exterior surface 101 of a blank 103 for forming a carrier 105 (FIG. 4) according to a first exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. As described further herein, the carrier 105 may be configured to hold, support, store, or receive a plurality of containers. The carrier 105 may include one or more containers to form a package 110 (FIG. 4).

[0015] 4, the carrier 105 is sized to accommodate or support six containers C, with three containers C attached to the front 106 of the carrier 105 and three containers C attached to the rear 108 of the carrier 105. It will be understood that the carrier 105 may be sized and configured to hold more or less than six containers. In some embodiments, the front 106 and rear 108 of the carrier 105 each have three containers, and in other embodiments, the front 106 and rear 108 of the carrier 105 can carry more or less than three containers without departing from this disclosure.

[0016] In the illustrated embodiment, container C may be a beverage can having a lower base portion, a top portion with a neck that tapers inwardly from a flange portion at the top of the neck that extends radially outwardly from the neck, and a top surface that includes a pull tab below the flange portion. It will be understood that one or more of containers C may be another suitable type and size of container without departing from this disclosure.

[0017] 1, the blank 103 has a longitudinal axis L1 and a transverse axis L2. In one embodiment, axis L1 may be a transverse axis and axis L2 may be a vertical axis. The blank 103 includes a central or mounting panel 117 that includes a container retaining feature for engaging and / or at least partially receiving a container C when the carrier 105 is formed from the blank 103, as described further herein.

[0018] In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 103 also includes a front end flap or front side panel 119 (generally the “first side panel” or “second side panel”) foldably connected to the attachment panel 117 at a longitudinal fold line 121, a rear end flap or rear side panel 123 foldably connected to the attachment panel 117 at a longitudinal fold line 125, a first end flap or first end side panel 127 (generally the “first side panel” or “second side panel”) foldably connected to the attachment panel 117 at a transverse fold line 129, and a second end flap or second end side panel 131 foldably connected to the attachment panel 117 at a transverse fold line 133. It will be understood that one or more of the fold lines 121, 125, 129, 133 may be different types of weakened lines, for example, tear lines, and / or may have one or more perforations along the fold line without departing from this disclosure.

[0019] The container-retaining feature of the blank 103 / center panel 117 can include a plurality of container openings 135. As shown, the container openings 135 can be provided in a row and column arrangement in a number corresponding to the desired number of containers to be retained by the carrier 105 formed from the blank 103. Although the center panel 117 is shown having the container openings 135 arranged in two rows / columns of three openings 135 each, it should be understood that a different number and / or arrangement of container-retaining openings 135 can be provided without departing from this disclosure.

[0020] As shown in FIG. 1 , the container opening 135 can have a generally circular configuration, with the container-retaining tabs 137 at least partially foldably connected to the mounting panel at respective diagonal or curved fold lines 139 and extending into / toward the container opening 135 and disposed circumferentially. Adjacent container-retaining tabs 137 can be at least partially separated at respective diagonal cuts 136. It will be understood that one or more of the container-retaining tabs 137 can have different configurations or arrangements without departing from this disclosure. For example, in one embodiment, the container-retaining tabs 137 can have the form of an edge of the central panel 117 that projects into the respective container opening 135.

[0021] As also shown, the blank 103 / carrier 105 can also have handle features including a pair of handle openings 140 defined in the mounting panel 117, each generally between four adjacent container openings 135, and a pair of generally circular handle openings 141 defined at least partially in a portion of the mounting panel 117 and each of the respective side panels 127, 131.

[0022] In the illustrated embodiment, the handle openings 141 can intersect the respective fold lines 129, 133. The handle features can also include handle reinforcement flaps 143 foldably connected to the mounting panel 117 at respective diagonal fold lines 145 and positioned to extend at least partially into the respective handle openings 140. It will be understood that the blank 103 / carrier 105 can have a different number and / or arrangement of handle features without departing from this disclosure.

[0023] 1, the blank 103 may include a locking feature for forming a locking feature of the carrier 105. In the illustrated embodiment, the locking feature may include a male locking structure in the form of a pair of locking tabs 147 that are foldably connected to the respective front side panel 119 (generally the "first locking tab" and the "second locking tab," respectively) and the rear side panel 123 (generally the "third locking tab" and the "fourth locking tab," respectively) at respective lateral fold lines 149. In some embodiments, the locking tabs 147 may have one or more surface features, e.g., notches, grooves, serrations, hooks, barbs, etc., to facilitate such engagement with the locking notches 151 or adjacent surfaces of the respective panels 119, 123.

[0024] The locking mechanism may also include a female locking structure with a respective pair of locking notches 151 (generally a respective "first locking notch," "second locking notch," "third locking notch," and "fourth locking notch") positioned within each side panel 127, 131 for at least partially receiving a respective locking tab 147, as described further herein. As shown, one or more of the locking notches 151 may have one or more of straight, curved, and / or angled portions. In some embodiments, the locking notches 151 may have a different configuration complementary to the configuration of the locking tabs 147.

[0025] It will be understood that the blank 103 and the carrier 105 formed therefrom can have a different number and / or arrangement of locking features without departing from this disclosure.

[0026] 2, a portion of a system 160 for forming the carrier 105 and package 110 from the blank 103 is shown, according to an exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. It will be understood that the system 160 can have one or more different components and / or configurations without departing from the present disclosure. In some embodiments, different systems or machines may be provided for at least partially forming the carrier and package from the blank 103. In some embodiments, different systems may be provided for forming each of the carrier and package from the blank 103. In some embodiments, such a system may be or include one described in U.S. Provisional Patent Application 63 / 261,582, filed September 24, 2021, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference as if set forth herein in its entirety.

[0027] As described herein, system 160 may be configured to form carriers 105 and packages 110 from respective blanks 103. In this regard, system 160 may be configured to manipulate (e.g., fold, bend, score, otherwise move, etc.) one or more portions of respective blanks 103 to form carriers 105 and simultaneously or subsequently engage such blanks 103 / carriers 105 with containers C to form packages 110.

[0028] In the illustrated embodiment, the system 160 can include a blank infeed assembly 165 for receiving and moving one or more blanks 103 into the system 160, a product conveyor assembly 167 for moving one or more containers C through the system 160, and a package forming assembly 169 downstream of the blank infeed assembly 165 for at least partially engaging the blanks 103 / carriers 105 with the containers C to form the packages 110. The system 160 can have a different number, arrangement, and / or configuration of assemblies without departing from this disclosure.

[0029] It will be appreciated that one or more of such assemblies of system 160 can have one or more intermediate transport assemblies, e.g., conveyors, belts, beds for cooperation with moving components, and the like. Additionally, an assembly of system 160 can include one or more motors and suitable associated transmission mechanisms, e.g., transmission shafts, one or more gearings, rollers, belts, wheels, and the like, for applying rotational force to one or more components of such an assembly. In some embodiments, one or more of the assemblies of system 160 can include one or more dedicated motors. In some embodiments, one or more motors can be actuated to provide driving force to multiple assemblies of system 160.

[0030] A motor as described herein can be any type of motor, engine, actuator, or other drive device that operates by converting energy, e.g., electrical energy and / or chemical fuel, into mechanical energy output.

[0031] It will be appreciated that system 160 can include a machine frame that supports the various assemblies and components thereof described herein. The machine frame can include one or more of bases, legs, struts, tie bars, platforms, etc., in various arrangements to provide a support structure for the assemblies and components described herein. For example, the machine frame can support such components above a base surface, such as the ground or floor, and can provide access at one or more locations for a human operator, for example, to inspect, maintain, and / or otherwise operate system 160. In one embodiment, system 160 can be provided without an external frame.

[0032] 2 and 3, the blank 103 may move through the system 160 from its upstream end 161 to its downstream end 163 in a downstream direction or machine direction M that generally defines / is parallel to the downstream direction with respect to the system such that the blank 103 is engaged by various portions and components of the system 160. In this regard, the upstream direction with respect to the system 160 is the direction opposite the machine direction M / downstream direction.

[0033] The system 160 may include a blank infeed assembly 165 adjacent its upstream end 161 for receiving and sequentially distributing the blanks 103 in the machine direction M of the system 160. Thus, the system 160 may include an infeed mechanism such as a hopper, chute, or other in-line or right-angle distribution mechanism (not shown). An associated blank transport mechanism, e.g., a conveyor, a bed having rotating components, or the like, may be provided in cooperation with such infeed mechanism for transporting the blanks 103 in a downstream direction.

[0034] 2 and 3, the system 160 can include a product conveyor assembly 167 for moving the containers C in the machine direction M. Such a product conveyor assembly 167 can include at least one moving support on which the containers C are disposed for downstream movement along the system 160. Such a moving support can include conveyors, belts, beds, rollers, etc., driven, at least in part, by one or more shared or dedicated drive assemblies, for example, to move the containers C supported thereon. In some embodiments, the product conveyor assembly 167 can be configured to at least in part group the containers C in a desired arrangement, such that a preselected number and / or arrangement of groups of containers C can be formed.

[0035] The system 160 may further include a package forming assembly 169 disposed downstream of the blank infeed assembly 165 in the machine direction M, along which the product conveyor assembly 167 at least partially extends. The package forming assembly 169 may include a forming belt or clipping belt 171 that extends around, e.g., forms a periphery of, a series of rollers or closed-loop drive belt 173 in at least partial face-to-face contact below the clipping belt 171 such that the clipping belt 171 is disposed in a closed path. As described further herein, the drive belt 173 may be driven to rotate to convey at least a portion of the clipping belt 171 adjacent the container C in the machine direction M.

[0036] The clipping belt 171 may be a generally planar member having a number of openings 175 formed therethrough, as shown. The clipping belt 171 may be formed of a material suitable for withstanding an applied tension and / or engagement with the respective drive belt 173 and associated drive components. In one embodiment, the clipping belt 171 may include one or more of a polymeric material, a composite material, and a metallic material. In one embodiment, the clipping belt 171 may include one or more reinforcing members, such as an embedded structure, a binder, a braid, etc.

[0037] As described further herein, the opening 175 in the clipping belt 171 can be formed with a diameter / location corresponding to the diameter / location of the container opening 135 and container retaining tabs 137 of the blank 103. In the illustrated embodiment, the opening 175 in the clipping belt 171 can have a diameter corresponding to the distance from a curved fold line / portion of the curved fold line 139 to a diametrically opposed portion of the curved fold line / portion of the curved fold line 139.

[0038] The aforementioned arrangement of the clipping belts 171 is such that when the clipping belts 171 are disposed in a generally planar arrangement over the respective blanks 103, the respective openings 175 of the clipping belts 171 may be aligned with the container openings 135 of the blanks 103. In some embodiments, the clipping belts 171 may include one or more surface features, e.g., protrusions, recesses, friction enhancing surfaces, etc., to facilitate engagement with the blanks 103 and / or subsequent engagement with the containers C.

[0039] It will also be appreciated that the above-described system 160 may be adjusted to accommodate different types / configurations / dimensions of blanks 103, e.g., to minimize the number of swap / replacement parts involved in utilizing the system 160 for different blanks, e.g., to streamline operations and minimize downtime. For example, one or more adjustment controls, e.g., levers, knobs, toggles, buttons, tools (wrenches, etc.), can be coupled to one or more tolerance adjustment structures (e.g., nuts, bolts, screws, clamps, vices, jacks, lifts, cranks, wheels, etc.) of the system 160.

[0040] As also shown, the package forming assembly 169 may include a locking device 177 disposed downstream of the clipping belt 171. The locking device 177 may include a leading locking belt 179 disposed adjacent to the path of the containers C in a downstream direction along the product conveyor assembly 167, as shown. The locking belt 179 may be disposed along a closed loop and may support a plurality of first locking lugs 181, as shown.

[0041] 3, each locking lug 181 can include a base 183 that attaches to the locking belt 179, and an arm 185 supported on the base and at least partially intersecting the path of the container C. The locking belt 179 can thus be driven to rotate such that the locking lug 181 is carried with the arm 185 extending towards the carrier 105 / package 110 for engagement with one or more portions thereof.

[0042] The locking device 177 may further include a trailing locking belt 187 positioned adjacent to the path of the container C and defining a plurality of second locking lugs 189 extending therefrom. Although the second locking lugs 189 are illustrated as protrusions on the trailing locking belt 187, it should be understood that the second locking lugs 189 may be separate structures attached to the locking belt 187 without departing from this disclosure. Similar to the leading locking belt 179, the trailing locking belt 187 may be carried and positioned such that the lugs 189 engage one or more portions of the carrier 105 / package 110, and may be driven to rotate.

[0043] Assembly 169 may further include a flap or panel folding wheel 191 disposed adjacent the path of advancement of carrier 105 / container C within system 160 and may include a plurality of radially extending sections 193 separated by respective circumferential gaps 195. As described further herein, folding wheel 191 is moved such that its sections 193 engage one or more portions of a carrier 105 / package 110 passing therethrough, and may be driven to rotate, for example, by one or more motor / drive systems of system 160, via engagement with one or more of retaining belts 179, 187, etc.

[0044] With continued reference to Figures 2 and 3, during use, one or more drive assemblies associated with the system 160 may be actuated, for example via actuation / energization of one or more motors or prime movers, to cause the blank infeed assembly 165 / associated conveyor to advance one or more blanks 103 downstream and / or otherwise toward the package forming assembly 169.

[0045] When the blank 103 reaches the package forming assembly 169, the blank 103 may engage, for example, in at least partial face-to-face contact with a portion of the downwardly facing clipping belt 171.

[0046] As the clipping belt 171 and containers C approach the registration position, e.g., in a path parallel to the machine direction M, the blanks 103 carried by the clipping belt 171 can be positioned over the tops of the containers C. It will be appreciated that the containers C can be grouped into desired groups / arrangements prior to being loaded along and / or onto the product conveyor assembly 167.

[0047] In such a configuration, the package forming assembly 169 can urge the blanks 103 carried on the clipping belt 171 into clipping engagement with the respective groups of containers C, e.g., such that the rims of the containers C are at least partially received within the respective container openings 135 such that the respective container retaining tabs 137 further separate from one another and fold at least partially upwardly at respective fold lines 139 into edge-to-surface or clamping engagement with the undersides of the rims of the containers C. In such a position, the container retaining tabs 137 can extend from the mounting panel 117 to the undersides of the rims of the respective containers C to maintain engagement of the blanks 103 / carriers 105 with the containers C.

[0048] Further downstream movement of the engaged blank 103 / carrier 105 / container C along the package forming assembly 169 occurs adjacent to and passes by the locking belts 179, 187. It will be appreciated that the locking belts 179, 187 may be driven in different rotational directions. In some embodiments, the leading locking belt 179 may be driven such that the portion closest to the package 110 is generally opposite the machine direction M, and the trailing locking belt 187 may be driven such that the portion closest to the package 110 is generally along the machine direction M. In some embodiments, the locking belts 179, 187 may be driven in a different rotational direction than described above. In some embodiments, the locking belts 179, 187 may be driven in the same rotational direction.

[0049] When the locking lug 181 attached to the locking belt 179 approaches the locking tab 147 adjacent the respective second end side panel 131, its arm 185 can be at least partially inserted between the adjacent packages 110, moving the end side panel 131 of the preceding package 110 and the respective portions of the side panel 127 of the preceding package 110 adjacent thereto at least partially inward, e.g., in a direction transverse to the machine direction M, to position the respective locking notches 151 to receive the respective locking tabs 147.

[0050] Similarly, when lugs 189 extending from the locking belt 187 are inserted between adjacent packages 110, the lugs 189 move the locking tabs 147 foldably connected to the side panels 119 of the preceding package 110 and the locking tabs 147 foldably connected to the side panels 119 of the preceding package 110 immediately adjacent thereto at least partially through their respective locking notches 151 to lock the corners of each package 110.

[0051] As also shown, further downstream movement of package 110 engaging wheel 191 can rotate its section 193 into engagement with respective front and rear side panels 119, 123, further folding side panels 119, 123 at respective fold lines 121, 125 to overlap respective portions of side panels 127, 131, facilitating formation of carrier 105 / package 110 and engagement of the locking features.

[0052] It will be understood that one or more of the side panels 119, 123, 127, 131 of the blank 103 may additionally or alternatively be folded at their respective fold lines 121, 125, 129, 133 in one or more upstream portions of the system 160, for example, via engagement with one or more lugs, arms, cams, folding surfaces, etc., to facilitate the aforementioned formation of the carrier 105 and package 110.

[0053] Further, although the package forming apparatus 169 and associated components are shown positioned to engage a forward portion of the blank 103 / carrier 105 / package 110, it will be understood that additional such components may be positioned for engagement along a rearward portion of such blank 103 / carrier 105 / package 110 in a manner similar to that described above with respect to the forward portion of the blank 103 / carrier 105 / package 110.

[0054] 4, there is shown the engagement of the locking features of the carrier 105 / package 110 as described above. When the locking tabs 147 and adjacent locking notches 151 are engaged through the action of the system 160 as previously described, each locking tab 147 can be at least partially inserted / received between the edges of each locking notch 151 of the respective front 119 and rear 123 side panels.

[0055] In this regard, the locking tabs 147 can engage one or more inner surfaces of the respective front and rear side panels 119, 123 to maintain engagement between the front and rear side panels 119, 123 and the respective side panels 127, 131 attached thereto via the respective locking tabs 147, and maintain the formed configuration of the carrier 105 / package 110. Additionally, an edge of each locking notch 151 can compressibly / frictionally engage one or more portions of the respective locking tab 147. In some embodiments, the locking tabs 147 can have one or more surface features, such as notches, grooves, serrations, hooks, barbs, etc., to facilitate such engagement with adjacent surfaces or locking notches 151 of the respective panels 119, 123.

[0056] As described herein, a lateral portion of at least the side panel 119 adjacent the side panel 127 can be at least partially curved and overlap at least partially in face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the side panel 127 to form a first at least partially curved corner 196 of the carrier 105 / package 110 between the side panels 119, 127. Similarly, a lateral portion of at least the side panel 119 adjacent the side panel 131 can be at least partially curved and overlap at least partially in face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the side panel 131 to form a second at least partially curved corner 197 of the carrier 105 / package 110 between the side panels 119, 131. A lateral portion of at least the side panel 123 adjacent the side panel 131 can be at least partially curved and overlap at least partially in face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the side panel 131 to form a third at least partially curved corner 198 of the carrier 105 / package 110 between the side panels 123, 131. At least a lateral portion of side panel 123 adjacent side panel 127 may be at least partially curved and overlap in at least partial face-to-face contact with a respective portion of side panel 127 to form a fourth at least partially curved corner 199 of carrier 105 / package 110 between side panels 123, 127.

[0057] The aforementioned engagement of the locking features of the carrier 105 / package 110 can create a secure and tight configuration of the carrier 105 / package 110 that can further enhance the engagement between the mounting panel 117 and the respective containers C extending at least partially therethrough. For example, in some embodiments, the engagement of each locking tab 147 with each locking notch 151 can exert a compressive force along one or more portions of the mounting panel 117 to provide a compressive engagement between the edges of the mounting panel 117 surrounding the respective container openings 135 and / or the container retaining tabs extending therefrom and the respective containers C.

[0058] Moreover, such a secure and tight construction of the carrier 105 / package 110 can be achieved without the use of adhesives, such as glue, to provide a condensable / renewable waste stream that avoids the use of polymeric materials. Furthermore, the system 160 can be provided in a simplified configuration that eliminates the need for steps often associated with gluing operations, such as, for example, rotating the product pack.

[0059] It will be understood that the carrier 105 / package 110 may have different configurations without departing from this disclosure.

[0060] For example, with further reference to Figure 5, there is shown an exterior surface 201 of a blank 203 for forming a carrier 205 and package 210 (Figure 6) according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present disclosure. The blank 203 and the carrier 205 / package 210 formed therefrom may have one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the blank 103 and carrier 105 / package 110, and the same or similar features are designated with the same or similar reference numbers.

[0061] For example, the blank 203 and the carrier 205 / package 210 formed therefrom can include panels 117, 119, 123, 127, 131 and associated container retention features.

[0062] However, as illustrated, the blank 203 and the carrier 205 / package 210 formed therefrom may include locking features of different configurations than those described above with respect to the blank 103 / carrier 105 / package 110. In particular, the blank 203 may include locking tabs 247 that are foldably connected to the side panels 127, 131 at respective longitudinal lines of weakness or fold lines 249 and have a generally hook-shaped or at least partially curved configuration.

[0063] Additionally, the locking notches 251 (broadly referred to as the “first locking notch,” “second locking notch,” “third locking notch,” and “fourth locking notch”) disposed on the front side panel 119 and the rear side panel 123 for at least partially receiving the respective locking tabs 247 may have respective curved portions that intersect with straight portions to form notches complementary to the configuration of the locking tabs 247.

[0064] Furthermore, the locking mechanism of the blank 203 and the carrier / package formed therefrom may include tucking end flaps 250 (generally, the respective "first tucking end flap" and "second tucking end flap") foldably connected to the respective front side panels 119 at the respective transverse fold lines 252 and tucking end flaps 250 (generally, the respective "third tucking end flap" and "fourth tucking end flap") foldably connected to the rear side panel 123.

[0065] With further reference to FIG. 6 , the blank 203 can be formed into a carrier 205 and coupled with one or more containers C to form a package 210, e.g., via system 160 or a different system or method, in a manner similar to that described above with respect to the blank 103 / carrier 105 / package 110, with the locking tabs 247 inserted at least partially through the openings formed by the respective notches 251 to facilitate secure and tight engagement thereof, as described above with respect to the carrier 105 / package 110.

[0066] Additionally, the tucking end flaps 250 can be at least partially folded at their respective fold lines 252 or positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with their respective locking tabs 247 and / or adjacent portions of their respective side panels 127, 131 to further bias the respective locking mechanisms together and facilitate securing and fastening engagement of the respective locking mechanisms. For example, in some embodiments, the tucking end flaps 250 can facilitate frictional engagement with the respective locking tabs 247 and / or adjacent portions of their respective side panels 127, 131 to further secure the carrier 205 / package 210 to the container C and avoid inadvertent disengagement, etc.

[0067] As described herein, a lateral portion of the tucking end flap 250 adjacent the side panel 119 and / or the side panel 127 can be at least partially curved and at least partially overlapping in face-to-face contact with a portion of the side panel 127 to form a first at least partially curved corner 296 of the carrier 205 / package 210 between the side panels 119, 127. Similarly, a lateral portion of the tucking end flap 250 adjacent at least the side panel 119 and / or the side panel 131 can be at least partially curved and at least partially overlapping in face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the side panel 131 to form a second at least partially curved corner 297 of the carrier 205 / package 210 between the side panels 119, 131. A lateral portion of at least the tucking end flap 250 adjacent side panel 123 and / or side panel 131 can be at least partially curved and at least partially overlapping and in face-to-face contact with a respective portion of side panel 131 to form a third at least partially curved corner 298 of the carrier 205 / package 210 between the side panels 123, 131. A lateral portion of at least the tucking end flap 250 adjacent side panel 123 and / or side panel 127 can be at least partially curved and at least partially overlapping and in face-to-face contact with a respective portion of side panel 127 to form a fourth at least partially curved corner 299 of the carrier 205 / package 210 between the side panels 123, 127.

[0068] In this regard, the carrier 205 and package 210 having a front portion 206 and a rear portion 208 can be formed from the blank 203 in a manner similar to that described above with respect to the formation of the carrier 105 and package 110 from the blank 103, and have similar advantages and functions.

[0069] Generally, the blanks may be constructed from paperboard having a caliper such that it is heavier and more rigid than ordinary paper. The blanks may also be constructed from other materials such as cardboard, or any other material having suitable properties to enable the carrier to function at least generally as described above. The blanks may be coated, for example, with a clay coating. The clay coating may then be printed with product, advertising, and other information or images. The blanks may then be coated with a varnish to protect the information printed on the blanks. The blanks may also be coated, for example, with a moisture barrier layer on one or both sides of the blank. The blanks may also be laminated or coated with one or more sheet-like materials at selected panels or panel sections.

[0070] As an example, the tear line can include a slit that extends partially into the material along the desired line of weakness, and / or a series of spaced slits that extend partially into the material along the desired line of weakness and / or completely through the material, or various combinations of these features. As a more specific example, one type of tear line is in the form of a series of spaced slits that extend completely through the material, with adjacent slits spaced slightly apart such that nicks (e.g., somewhat bridge-like pieces of material) are defined between adjacent slits to typically temporarily connect the material across the tear line. The nicks are broken during tearing along the tear line. The nicks are typically a relatively small percentage of the tear line, and alternatively, the nicks can be omitted from or torn out of the tear line such that the tear line is a continuous cut line. That is, it is within the scope of the present disclosure to replace each of the tear lines with a continuous slit, and the like. For example, the cut line can be a continuous slit or be wider than the slits without departing from the present disclosure.

[0071] According to an exemplary embodiment, the fold line does not necessarily have to be a straight line, but can be any substantially straight form of weakening that facilitates folding therealong. More specifically, and without the intent of narrowing the scope of the present disclosure, fold lines include score lines, such as lines formed with a blunt scoring knife or the like, that create a crushed or depressed portion in the material along the desired line of weakness, cuts that extend partially into the material along the desired line of weakness, and / or a series of cuts that extend partially into and / or completely through the material along the desired line of weakness, and various combinations of these features. In situations where cuts are used to create fold lines, typically the cuts are not excessive so as to cause a reasonable user to erroneously consider the fold line to be a tear line.

[0072] The above embodiments may be described as having one or more panels glued together by an adhesive during assembly of the carrier embodiment. The term "glue" is intended to encompass any manner of adhesive typically used to secure carrier panels in place.

[0073] The foregoing description of the present disclosure illustrates and describes various exemplary embodiments. Various additions, modifications, changes, etc. can be made to the exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the present disclosure. It is intended that all matters contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings should be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. In addition, the present disclosure shows and describes only selected embodiments of the present disclosure, but the present disclosure can be used in various other combinations, modifications, and environments, and changes or modifications can be made in accordance with the above teachings and / or within the skill or knowledge of the relevant art, within the scope of the inventive concept expressed herein. Furthermore, certain features and characteristics of each embodiment may be selectively exchanged and applied to other illustrated and non-illustrated embodiments of the present disclosure.

Claims

1. 1. A carrier for holding a plurality of containers, comprising: a plurality of panels including a mounting panel, a first side panel foldably connected to the mounting panel, and a second side panel foldably connected to the mounting panel; a container retention mechanism including a plurality of container openings in the mounting panel for at least partially receiving respective containers of the plurality of containers; a locking mechanism for maintaining a secure engagement between the carrier and the plurality of containers, the locking mechanism comprising at least one locking tab foldably connected to one of the first and second side panels and at least one locking notch that at least partially receives the at least one locking tab, the at least one locking notch being disposed on the other of the first and second side panels.

2. The carrier of claim 1 , wherein the locking mechanism forms an at least partially curved corner of the carrier between the first side panel and the second side panel.

3. 3. The carrier of claim 2, wherein the locking mechanism further comprises a tucking end flap foldably connected to the one of the first and second side panels having the at least one locking notch, the tucking end flap at least partially overlapping the other of the first and second side panels.

4. 3. The carrier of claim 2, wherein the container retention mechanism further comprises a plurality of container retention tabs foldably connected to the mounting panel and extending into respective container openings of the plurality of container openings, the plurality of container retention tabs engaging respective containers of the plurality of containers.

5. The carrier of claim 4 , further comprising a handle feature comprising at least one handle opening at least partially formed in the mounting panel.

6. 2. The carrier of claim 1, wherein the first side panel is a front side panel and the second side panel is a first end side panel, the at least one locking tab is foldably connected to the front side panel, the at least one locking notch is disposed in the first end side panel, and the plurality of panels further comprises a rear side panel foldably connected to the mounting panel and a second end side panel foldably connected to the mounting panel.

7. 7. The carrier of claim 6, wherein the at least one locking tab is a first locking tab foldably connected to the front side panel, the at least one locking notch is a first locking notch disposed in the first end side panel, and the locking mechanism further comprises: a second locking tab foldably connected to the front side panel, a third locking tab foldably connected to the rear side panel, a fourth locking tab foldably connected to the rear side panel, a second locking notch disposed in the first end side panel and at least partially receiving the third locking tab, a third locking notch disposed in the second end side panel and at least partially receiving the second locking tab, and a fourth locking notch disposed in the second end side panel and at least partially receiving the fourth locking tab.

8. 8. The carrier of claim 7, wherein the locking feature forms a first at least partially curved corner between the front side panel and the first end side panel, a second at least partially curved corner between the front side panel and the second end side panel, a third at least partially curved corner between the second end side panel and the rear side panel, and a fourth at least partially curved corner between the rear side panel and the first end side panel.

9. 2. The carrier of claim 1, wherein the first side panel is a front side panel and the second side panel is a first end side panel, the at least one locking tab is foldably connected to the first end side panel and the at least one locking notch is disposed in the front side panel, and the plurality of panels further comprises a rear side panel foldably connected to the mounting panel and a second end side panel foldably connected to the mounting panel.

10. 10. The carrier of claim 9, wherein the at least one locking tab is a first locking tab foldably connected to the first end side panel, the at least one locking notch is a first locking notch disposed on the front side panel, and the locking mechanism further comprises: a second locking tab foldably connected to the first end side panel, a third locking tab foldably connected to the second end side panel, a fourth locking tab foldably connected to the second end side panel, a second locking notch disposed on the front side panel and at least partially receiving the third locking tab, a third locking notch disposed on the rear side panel and at least partially receiving the second locking tab, and a fourth locking notch disposed on the rear side panel and at least partially receiving the fourth locking tab.

11. 11. The carrier of claim 10, wherein the locking feature forms a first at least partially curved corner between the front side panel and the first end side panel, a second at least partially curved corner between the front side panel and the second end side panel, a third at least partially curved corner between the second end side panel and the rear side panel, and a fourth at least partially curved corner between the rear side panel and the first end side panel.

12. 12. The carrier of claim 11, wherein the locking mechanism further comprises: a first tucking end flap foldably connected to the front side panel and in at least partial face-to-face contact with the first end side panel; a second tucking end flap foldably connected to the front side panel and in at least partial face-to-face contact with the second end side panel; a third tucking end flap foldably connected to the rear side panel and in at least partial face-to-face contact with the first end side panel; and a fourth tucking end flap foldably connected to the rear side panel and in at least partial face-to-face contact with the second end side panel.

13. 1. A blank for forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, said blank comprising: a plurality of panels including a mounting panel, a first side panel foldably connected to the mounting panel, and a second side panel foldably connected to the mounting panel; a container retention mechanism including a plurality of container openings in the mounting panel for at least partially receiving respective containers of the plurality of containers when the carrier is formed from the blank; a locking mechanism for maintaining a secure engagement between the carrier and the plurality of containers when the carrier is formed from the blank; The blank, wherein the locking mechanism comprises at least one locking tab foldably connected to one of the first side panel and the second side panel, and at least one locking notch that at least partially receives the at least one locking tab when the carrier is formed from the blank, the at least one locking notch being disposed on the other of the first side panel and the second side panel.

14. 14. The blank of claim 13, wherein the locking mechanism further comprises a tucking end flap foldably connected to the one of the first and second side panels having the at least one locking notch, the tucking end flap at least partially overlapping the other of the first and second side panels when the carrier is formed from the blank.

15. 14. The blank of claim 13, wherein the container retention mechanism further comprises a plurality of container retention tabs foldably connected to the mounting panel and extending into each of the plurality of container openings, the plurality of container retention tabs adapted to engage each of the plurality of containers when the carrier is formed from the blank.

16. The blank of claim 15, further comprising a handle feature comprising at least one handle opening at least partially formed in the attachment panel.

17. 14. The blank of claim 13, wherein the first side panel is a front side panel and the second side panel is a first end side panel, the at least one locking tab is foldably connected to the front side panel, the at least one locking notch is disposed in the first end side panel, and the plurality of panels further comprises a rear side panel foldably connected to the attachment panel and a second end side panel foldably connected to the attachment panel.

18. 18. The blank of claim 17, wherein the at least one locking tab is a first locking tab foldably connected to the front side panel, the at least one locking notch is a first locking notch disposed in the first end side panel, and the locking mechanism comprises: a second locking tab foldably connected to the front side panel, a third locking tab foldably connected to the rear side panel, a fourth locking tab foldably connected to the rear side panel, a second locking notch disposed in the first end side panel and at least partially receiving the third locking tab when the carrier is formed from the blank, a third locking notch disposed in the second end side panel and at least partially receiving the second locking tab when the carrier is formed from the blank, and a fourth locking notch disposed in the second end side panel and at least partially receiving the fourth locking tab when the carrier is formed from the blank.

19. 14. The blank of claim 13, wherein the first side panel is a front side panel and the second side panel is a first end side panel, the at least one locking tab is foldably connected to the first end side panel, the at least one locking notch is disposed in the front side panel, and the plurality of panels further comprises a rear side panel foldably connected to the attachment panel and a second end side panel foldably connected to the attachment panel.

20. 20. The blank of claim 19, wherein the at least one locking tab is a first locking tab foldably connected to the first end side panel, the at least one locking notch is a first locking notch disposed in the front side panel, and the locking mechanism further comprises: a second locking tab foldably connected to the first end side panel, a third locking tab foldably connected to the second end side panel, a fourth locking tab foldably connected to the second end side panel, a second locking notch disposed in the front side panel and at least partially receiving the third locking tab when the carrier is formed from the blank, a third locking notch disposed in the rear side panel and at least partially receiving the second locking tab when the carrier is formed from the blank, and a fourth locking notch disposed in the rear side panel and at least partially receiving the fourth locking tab when the carrier is formed from the blank.

21. 21. The blank of claim 20, wherein the locking mechanism further comprises: a first tucking end flap foldably connected to the front side panel and positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the first end side panel when the carrier is formed from the blank; a second tucking end flap foldably connected to the front side panel and positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the second end side panel when the carrier is formed from the blank; a third tucking end flap foldably connected to the rear side panel and positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the first end side panel when the carrier is formed from the blank; and a fourth tucking end flap foldably connected to the rear side panel and positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the second end side panel when the carrier is formed from the blank.

22. 1. A method of forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, comprising the steps of: obtaining a blank, the blank comprising a plurality of panels comprising an attachment panel, a first side panel foldably connected to the attachment panel, and a second side panel foldably connected to the attachment panel, the blank further comprising a container retention mechanism comprising a plurality of container openings in the attachment panel, the blank further comprising a locking mechanism comprising at least one locking tab foldably connected to one of the first and second side panels and at least one locking notch disposed on the other of the first and second side panels; and positioning the at least one locking notch to at least partially receive the at least one locking tab.

23. 23. The method of claim 22, further comprising positioning the locking feature to form an at least partially curved corner of the carrier between the first side panel and the second side panel.

24. 24. The method of claim 23, wherein the locking mechanism further comprises a tucking end flap foldably connected to the one of the first and second side panels having the at least one locking notch, the method further comprising positioning the tucking end flap to at least partially overlap the other of the first and second side panels.

25. 24. The method of claim 23, wherein the container retention mechanism further comprises a plurality of container retention tabs foldably connected to the mounting panel and extending into and engaging respective container openings of the plurality of containers.

26. 26. The method of claim 25, wherein a handle feature comprises at least one handle opening at least partially formed in the mounting panel.

27. 26. The method of claim 25, further comprising at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers through a respective container opening of the plurality of container openings.

28. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the first side panel is a front side panel and the second side panel is a first end side panel, the at least one locking tab is foldably connected to the front side panel and the at least one locking notch is disposed in the first end side panel, and the plurality of panels further comprises a rear side panel foldably connected to the attachment panel and a second end side panel foldably connected to the attachment panel.

29. 29. The method of claim 28, wherein the at least one locking tab is a first locking tab foldably connected to the front side panel, the at least one locking notch is a first locking notch disposed in the first end side panel, and the locking mechanism further comprises a second locking tab foldably connected to the front side panel, a third locking tab foldably connected to the rear side panel, a fourth locking tab foldably connected to the rear side panel, a second locking notch disposed in the first end side panel, a third locking notch disposed in the second end side panel, and a fourth locking notch disposed in the second end side panel, the method comprising: positioning the third locking tab to be at least partially received in the second locking notch; positioning the second locking tab to be at least partially received in the third locking notch; and positioning the fourth locking tab to be at least partially received in the fourth locking notch.

30. 30. The method of claim 29, further comprising positioning the locking feature to form a first at least partially curved corner between the front side panel and the first end side panel, a second at least partially curved corner between the front side panel and the second end side panel, a third at least partially curved corner between the second end side panel and the rear side panel, and a fourth at least partially curved corner between the rear side panel and the first end side panel.

31. 31. The method of claim 30, further comprising at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers through a respective container opening of the plurality of container openings.

32. 23. The method of claim 22, wherein the first side panel is a front side panel and the second side panel is a first end side panel, the at least one locking tab is foldably connected to the first end side panel and the at least one locking notch is disposed in the front side panel, and the plurality of panels further comprises a rear side panel foldably connected to the attachment panel and a second end side panel foldably connected to the attachment panel.

33. 33. The method of claim 32, wherein the at least one locking tab is a first locking tab foldably connected to the first end side panel, the at least one locking notch is a first locking notch disposed in the front side panel, and the locking mechanism further comprises a second locking tab foldably connected to the first end side panel, a third locking tab foldably connected to the second end side panel, a fourth locking tab foldably connected to the second end side panel, a second locking notch disposed in the front side panel, a third locking notch disposed in the rear side panel, and a fourth locking notch disposed in the rear side panel, the method including positioning the third locking tab to be at least partially received in the second locking notch, positioning the second locking tab to be at least partially received in the third locking notch, and positioning the fourth locking tab to be at least partially received in the fourth locking notch.

34. 34. The method of claim 33, further comprising positioning the locking feature to form a first at least partially curved corner between the front side panel and the first end side panel, a second at least partially curved corner between the front side panel and the second end side panel, a third at least partially curved corner between the second end side panel and the rear side panel, and a fourth at least partially curved corner between the rear side panel and the first end side panel.

35. the locking mechanism further comprises a first tucking end flap foldably connected to the front side panel, a second tucking end flap foldably connected to the front side panel, a third tucking end flap foldably connected to the rear side panel, and a fourth tucking end flap foldably connected to the rear side panel; 35. The method of claim 34, comprising positioning the first tucking end flap in at least partial face-to-face contact with the first end side panel, positioning the second tucking end flap in at least partial face-to-face contact with the second end side panel, positioning the third tucking end flap in at least partial face-to-face contact with the first end side panel, and positioning the fourth tucking end flap in at least partial face-to-face contact with the second end side panel.

36. 36. The method of claim 35, further comprising at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers through a respective container opening of the plurality of container openings.

37. A package comprising: A plurality of containers; a plurality of panels including a mounting panel, a first side panel foldably connected to the mounting panel, and a second side panel foldably connected to the mounting panel; a container retention mechanism including a plurality of container openings in the mounting panel for at least partially receiving respective containers of the plurality of containers; a locking mechanism for maintaining a secure engagement between the carrier and the plurality of containers; the locking mechanism comprises at least one locking tab foldably connected to one of the first and second side panels and at least one locking notch that at least partially receives the at least one locking tab, the at least one locking notch being disposed on the other of the first and second side panels.

38. 38. The package of claim 37, wherein the locking mechanism forms an at least partially curved corner of the carrier between the first side panel and the second side panel.

39. 40. The package of claim 38, wherein the locking mechanism further comprises a tucking end flap foldably connected to the one of the first and second side panels having the at least one locking notch, the tucking end flap at least partially overlapping the other of the first and second side panels.

40. 40. The package of claim 38, wherein the container retention mechanism further comprises a plurality of container retention tabs foldably connected to the mounting panel and extending into respective container openings of the plurality of containers, the plurality of container retention tabs engaging respective containers of the plurality of containers.

41. 41. The package of claim 40, further comprising a handle feature comprising at least one handle opening at least partially formed in the mounting panel.

42. 38. The package of claim 37, wherein the first side panel is a front side panel and the second side panel is a first end side panel, the at least one locking tab is foldably connected to the front side panel, the at least one locking notch is disposed in the first end side panel, and the plurality of panels further comprises a rear side panel foldably connected to the mounting panel and a second end side panel foldably connected to the mounting panel.

43. 43. The package of claim 42, wherein the at least one locking tab is a first locking tab foldably connected to the front side panel, the at least one locking notch is a first locking notch disposed in the first end side panel, and the locking mechanism further comprises: a second locking tab foldably connected to the front side panel, a third locking tab foldably connected to the rear side panel, a fourth locking tab foldably connected to the rear side panel, a second locking notch disposed in the first end side panel and at least partially receiving the third locking tab, a third locking notch disposed in the second end side panel and at least partially receiving the second locking tab, and a fourth locking notch disposed in the second end side panel and at least partially receiving the fourth locking tab.

44. 44. The package of claim 43, wherein the locking feature forms a first at least partially curved corner between the front side panel and the first end side panel, a second at least partially curved corner between the front side panel and the second end side panel, a third at least partially curved corner between the second end side panel and the rear side panel, and a fourth at least partially curved corner between the rear side panel and the first end side panel.

45. 38. The package of claim 37, wherein the first side panel is a front side panel and the second side panel is a first end side panel, the at least one locking tab is foldably connected to the first end side panel, the at least one locking notch is disposed in the front side panel, and the plurality of panels further comprises a rear side panel foldably connected to the mounting panel and a second end side panel foldably connected to the mounting panel.

46. 46. ​​The package of claim 45, wherein the at least one locking tab is a first locking tab foldably connected to the first end side panel, the at least one locking notch is a first locking notch disposed on the front side panel, and the locking mechanism further comprises: a second locking tab foldably connected to the first end side panel, a third locking tab foldably connected to the second end side panel, a fourth locking tab foldably connected to the second end side panel, a second locking notch disposed on the front side panel and at least partially receiving the third locking tab, a third locking notch disposed on the rear side panel and at least partially receiving the second locking tab, and a fourth locking notch disposed on the rear side panel and at least partially receiving the fourth locking tab.

47. 47. The package of claim 46, wherein the locking feature forms a first at least partially curved corner between the front side panel and the first end side panel, a second at least partially curved corner between the front side panel and the second end side panel, a third at least partially curved corner between the second end side panel and the rear side panel, and a fourth at least partially curved corner between the rear side panel and the first end side panel.

48. 48. The package of claim 47, wherein the locking mechanism further comprises: a first tucking end flap foldably connected to the front side panel and in at least partial face-to-face contact with the first end side panel; a second tucking end flap foldably connected to the front side panel and in at least partial face-to-face contact with the second end side panel; a third tucking end flap foldably connected to the rear side panel and in at least partial face-to-face contact with the first end side panel; and a fourth tucking end flap foldably connected to the rear side panel and in at least partial face-to-face contact with the second end side panel.

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