Packaging System

Abstract

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

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] [CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS] This application is a continuation-in-part of PCT Patent Application No. PCT / US2022 / 034305, filed June 21, 2022, the entire contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

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

[0003] In the packaging art, it is known to provide cartons for carrying multiple items. Cartons are well known in the art and serve to transport, store, and provide access to groups of items for consumption by consumers. Due to cost and environmental considerations, such cartons or carriers should be made from as little material as possible and result in as little material waste as possible. Additionally, consideration should be given to the strength of the carton and its suitability for storing and transporting large quantities of items. It is desirable that the contents of the carton be securely retained within the carton.

[0004] The upper grip article carrier has an aperture formed in a panel of the carrier, and tabs projecting from the panel and positioned around the aperture such that when an article is received in the aperture, the tabs move out of the plane of the panel and engage the article around a flange or lip of the article.

[0005] It would be desirable to automate the formation of packages from article carriers by employing packaging machines capable of operating at high production capacity, particularly for packaging articles as they move continuously downstream through the packaging device.

[0006] The present invention seeks to provide improvements in the packaging field of cartons, which are typically formed from paperboard or the like, as well as machines for erecting said cartons. Summary of the Invention

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

[0008] Optionally, the article carrier includes side panels hingedly connected to the main panel by hinge connections.

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

[0010] Optionally, the at least one registration edge comprises a leading registration edge and a trailing registration edge.

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

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

[0013] Optionally, the at least one registration edge comprises a leading registration edge and a trailing registration edge.

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

[0015] Optionally, the at least one registration edge comprises a leading registration edge and a trailing registration edge.

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

[0017] Optionally, the at least one registration edge comprises a leading registration edge and a trailing registration edge.

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

[0019] Optionally, the panel having a peripheral edge portion providing at least one alignment edge is hingedly connected to the main panel by a hinge connection.

[0020] Optionally, the panel having a peripheral edge portion providing at least one alignment edge is hingedly connected to the main panel by at least one hinge panel.

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0027] Optionally, the head is part of a tool-less mounting system.

[0028] Optionally, the tool-less mounting system is equipped with a bayonet fitting.

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

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

[0031] Optionally, the plurality of article engagement tools comprises at least one leading article engagement tool and at least one trailing article engagement tool.

[0032] Optionally, the at least one leading article engagement tool is configured to engage a leading registration edge of each of the at least one blank.

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

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

[0035] Optionally, the apparatus includes an applicator for pressing the at least one blank against the at least one group of articles, the applicator including a plurality of article receiving orifices for receiving respective articles of the at least one group of articles formed by the apparatus.

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

[0037] Optionally, the at least one stabilizing peg prevents or inhibits movement of the at least one blank relative to the at least one group of articles in a direction parallel to the direction in which the at least one blank flows through the apparatus, as well as in a lateral direction perpendicular to the direction in which the at least one blank flows through the apparatus.

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

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

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

[0041] A third aspect of the present invention provides a method of packaging a plurality of items, the method comprising: conveying the stream of articles downstream through a packaging device; engaging each article with an article engagement tool; Simultaneously with the step of grouping at least one group of articles, applying at least one blank to a top edge of the article; engaging at least one leading alignment edge of the blank with a reference pin attached to a lead article engagement tool; measuring said at least one group of articles; engaging a reference pin attached to a trailing article engagement tool with at least one trailing registration edge of at least one blank; Includes.

[0042] Optionally, the method further includes applying at least one blank to at least one group of items, engaging each item with a respective item retention device provided on a main panel of the at least one blank.

[0043] Optionally, applying the at least one blank to the at least one group of articles includes inserting stabilizing pegs into openings in a stabilizing device provided in a main panel of the at least one blank before pressing the main panel onto the at least one group of articles.

[0044] Optionally, the step of applying at least one blank to the at least one group of articles may include at least partially folding one or more panels joined to the main panel and including at least one leading and trailing alignment edge.

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0051] Optionally, at least one stabilizing peg is removably attached to a plate provided with the article-receiving orifice.

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

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

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

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

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

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

[0058] Optionally, the plate is provided with one or more release openings to allow the detent to be released from the catch.

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

[0060] A sixth aspect of the present invention provides a cutting device for separating a plurality of connected article carriers engaged with a group of articles, the cutting device comprising a plate having a plurality of article receiving orifices, each for receiving a respective article, and a plurality of blade receiving locations, each having a cutting blade removably attached thereto, for severing frangible connections between adjacently arranged carriers, the plurality of blades being removably attached to the plate, the plurality of blades being reconfigurable into a desired arrangement to accommodate a predetermined configuration of the connected carriers.

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

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

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

[0064] Optionally, the apparatus includes an applicator that separates the plurality of connected blanks into individual blanks and presses each blank against two or more groups of articles, the applicator having a plurality of article receiving orifices that receive each article, and a cutting device that cuts the frangible connections between adjacently positioned blanks.

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

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

[0067] Optionally, the applicator is mounted on the overhead conveyor in wheel form such that the applicator applies at least one blank to at least one group of articles as they are conveyed downstream by the plurality of article engaging tools.

[0068] Optionally, the apparatus includes an overhead conveyor for conveying the plurality of spliced ​​blanks onto one or more articles.

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

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

[0071] Optionally, the apparatus includes a plurality of article engagement tools for engaging each article, measuring and grouping the articles, and transporting said articles downstream as a measured group.

[0072] Optionally, the plurality of item engagement tools comprises at least one leading item engagement tool and at least one trailing item engagement tool.

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

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

[0075] A ninth aspect of the present invention provides a method of packaging a plurality of articles, the method comprising the steps of forming at least two groups of articles; applying a plurality of connected blanks to top ends of the articles; engaging reference pins on the plurality of connected blanks to align the plurality of connected blanks to the article; lowering an applicator over the article and the plurality of connected blanks to insert a stabilizing pin into an opening in each blank; further lowering the applicator to sever weak connections between adjacently positioned blanks; contacting a plate of the applicator with each of the individual blanks; and further lowering the applicator to press the individual blanks against the top ends of the articles and displacing engagement tabs upwardly out of the plane of the blanks until the tabs engage a flange around the top end of the article.

[0076] A tenth aspect of the present invention provides a method for packaging a plurality of articles, the method comprising the steps of conveying a stream of articles in a downstream direction through a packaging apparatus; engaging each article with an article engagement tool; grouping a plurality of groups of articles; simultaneously applying a plurality of connected blanks to the top ends of the articles; engaging at least one leading alignment edge of the blank with a reference pin attached to the leading article engagement tool; measuring the group of articles; and engaging at least one trailing alignment edge of the plurality of connected blanks with a reference pin attached to the trailing article engagement tool.

[0077] Optionally, the method further includes separating the plurality of connected blanks into individual blanks and applying the individual blanks to a group of items, engaging each item with a respective item retention device provided on a main panel of the blank.

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

[0079] An eleventh aspect of the present invention provides a plurality of connected blanks for forming a multiple article carrier, each blank being frangibly connected to at least one adjacent blank by a frangible connection. Each blank of the plurality of connected blanks includes a main panel having at least one article retention structure for engaging an article. The plurality of connected blanks includes at least one panel having a peripheral edge portion, a portion of the peripheral edge portion providing at least one alignment edge shaped to prevent movement in two orthogonal directions when engaged by a reference device of a packaging apparatus.

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

[0081] Optionally, the separating apparatus comprises at least one stabilizing peg receivable in an opening of a stabilizing device provided in the main panel of each article carrier, the at least one stabilizing peg being configured to limit movement of the article carrier relative to the separating apparatus.

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

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

[0084] Optionally, the separators are mounted on an overhead conveyor and synchronized with the article carriers for continuous downstream transport through the working range of the packaging machine.

[0085] Optionally, the datum device comprises an abutment pin extending upwardly from the article engagement tool beyond a top edge of the one or more articles, the abutment pin having a head.

[0086] Optionally, the head provides a reference body.

[0087] Optionally, the datum comprises a wall for engaging an edge of at least one blank.

[0088] Optionally, the wall is a cylindrical wall.

[0089] Optionally, the upper end of the head is tapered to provide an angled surface for aligning the at least one blank with a datum.

[0090] Optionally, the inclined surface is conical.

[0091] Optionally, the head includes a support surface to prevent unwanted deformation or folding of the blank in the target area.

[0092] Optionally, the head includes a datum extending from the support surface.

[0093] A thirteenth aspect of the present invention provides an apparatus for packaging one or more articles in an article carrier, the apparatus including an article engagement tool for engaging the articles and transporting the articles in a downstream direction. The article engagement tool includes a reference device for aligning a plurality of connected blanks into groups of two or more articles. The reference device includes an abutment pin extending upward from the article engagement tool beyond a top edge of the one or more articles. The abutment pin includes a head, the head including a support surface for preventing undesired deformation or creasing of a target area of ​​the plurality of connected blanks.

[0094] A fourteenth aspect of the present invention provides an apparatus for packaging one or more articles in an article carrier, the apparatus comprising an article engagement tool for engaging the article and transporting the article in a downstream direction, the article engagement tool comprising a support device for supporting a portion of at least one blank, the support device comprising an abutment pin extending upward from the article engagement tool, the abutment pin having a head, the head comprising a support surface for preventing undesired deformation of a target area of ​​the at least one blank.

[0095] Further features and advantages of the invention will be apparent from the specific embodiments illustrated in the drawings and described below.

[0096] Within the scope of this application, it is contemplated or intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features, and alternatives set forth in the preceding paragraphs, claims, and / or in the following description and drawings may be considered or employed independently or in any combination thereof.

[0097] Features or elements described in connection with or relating to one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments unless there is an incompatibility of features. One or more features or elements of one embodiment may be incorporated into or combined with any of the other embodiments disclosed herein, and said features or elements extracted from said one embodiment may be included in addition to or instead of one or more features or elements of said other embodiments.

[0098] A feature or combination of features of an embodiment disclosed herein may be extracted independently of other features of that embodiment, or a feature or combination of features of an embodiment may be omitted from that embodiment. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0099] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0100] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a top plan view of a blank for forming a carrier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 2 is a top perspective view of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 1; FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 1 is a top plan view of a blank for forming a carrier according to various embodiments of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 3. [Figure 5A] FIG. 1 is a top plan view of a blank for forming a carrier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5B] FIG. 5B is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the blank of FIG. 5A. [Figure 6] FIG. 5B is a top perspective view of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 5A. [Figure 7] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a packaging device forming part of a packaging system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 8]FIG. 8 is an end view of the packaging device of FIG. 7. [Figure 9] FIG. 8 is a plan view of the packaging device of FIG. 7. [Figure 10] FIG. 8 is a perspective view from below of the packaging device of FIG. 7. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a perspective view from above of a packaging device forming part of a packaging system according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 12] 1 is a top side view of a packaging device forming part of a packaging system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 1 is a top plan view of a pair of joined blanks for forming a carrier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 14] 14 illustrates the step of assembling the connected blanks of FIG. 13 into a carrier by means of an applicator device. [Figure 15] 14 illustrates the step of assembling the connected blanks of FIG. 13 into a carrier by means of an applicator device. [Figure 16] 14 illustrates the step of assembling the connected blanks of FIG. 13 into a carrier by means of an applicator device. [Figure 17] 14 illustrates the step of assembling the connected blanks of FIG. 13 into a carrier by means of an applicator device. [Figure 18] 10A-10C illustrate cutting blades according to various embodiments for use in an applicator device. [Figure 19] FIG. 1 is a side view of a packaging device forming part of a packaging system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 20] FIG. 10 is a perspective view from below of a separating device forming part of a packaging system according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is an end view of the separation device of FIG. 20. [Figure 22] FIG. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the separation device of FIG. 20. [Figure 23] 21 is a cross-sectional view of the separating device of FIG. 20 in operative engagement with a plurality of groups of packaged articles. [Figure 24]21A-21C are side views of the packaging device illustrating various operational steps of the separating device according to the embodiment of FIG. 20. [Figure 25] FIG. 1 is a top perspective view of a packaging device forming part of a packaging system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the packaging device of FIG. 25, seen from above. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0101] Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of packaging systems, apparatus, methods, packages, blanks, and carriers are disclosed herein. It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of ways to implement certain aspects of the present invention and are not an exhaustive list of all ways in which the present invention may be embodied. The word "exemplary" is used herein broadly to refer to embodiments that serve as an illustration, specimen, model, or pattern. Indeed, it will be understood that the packaging systems, apparatus, methods, packages, blanks, and carriers described herein can be embodied in a variety of alternative forms. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, and some features may be exaggerated or reduced to show details of particular components. Well-known components, materials, or methods are not necessarily described in detail in order to avoid obscuring the present disclosure. Specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art how to use the present invention in various manners.

[0102] Referring to Figure 1, there is shown a plan view of a blank 10 from which a carton or carrier 90 can be formed for containing and transporting a group of primary products (hereinafter "item B"), such as, but not limited to, bottles and cans, as shown in Figure 2. Item B can be generally cylindrical and have a circular cross-sectional shape, at least around the area of ​​engagement with carrier 90. Blank 10 forms a secondary package for enclosing at least one primary product container or package. Alternative blanks 110, 310, 410A-B for forming alternative cartons or carriers 190, 390, 490 are shown in Figures 3-6 and 13-17.

[0103] In the embodiments detailed herein, the terms "carton" and "carrier" refer to containers for containing and transporting items, such as primary product containers, for non-limiting purposes of describing various features of the present invention. It is contemplated that the teachings of the present invention may be applied to a variety of product containers, which may or may not be tapered and / or cylindrical. Exemplary containers include bottles (e.g., metal, glass, or plastic bottles), cans (e.g., aluminum cans), tin cans, pouches, packets, and the like.

[0104] The blanks 10, 110, 310, 410A-B are formed from sheets of a suitable substrate. As used herein, the term "suitable substrate" includes any type of foldable sheet material, such as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, etc. It should be appreciated that one or more blanks may be used, where appropriate, to provide, for example, a carrier structure, as described in more detail below.

[0105] The packaging structures or cartons described herein may be formed from sheet materials, such as paperboard, that are made with or coated with materials to enhance their strength. An example of such a sheet material is tear-resistant NATRALOCK® paperboard manufactured by WestRock Company. It should be noted that tear-resistant materials may be provided in multiple layers to improve the tear resistance of the package. Typically, one surface of the sheet material may have different properties than the other surface. For example, the surface of the sheet material facing the exterior of the finished package may be particularly smooth and may have a coating or other surface treatment, such as a clay coating, to provide good printing properties. Meanwhile, the surface of the sheet material facing the interior may be coated, layered, treated, or otherwise prepared to provide properties such as tear resistance, good adhesion, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties.

[0106] 1-12, the blanks 10, 110, 310 are configured to form cartons or carriers 90, 190, 390 for packaging an exemplary configuration of exemplary items B. In the illustrated embodiment, the arrangement is a 2x4 matrix or array, with two rows of four items B, where items B are beverage cans. Alternatively, the blanks 10, 110, 310 may be configured to form carriers for packaging other types, numbers, sizes of items, and / or for packaging items in different arrangements or configurations.

[0107] In the embodiment shown in Figures 1-6, blanks 10, 110, 310 are configured to accommodate slimline beverage cans, such as 330 ml cans. Item B is substantially the same diameter across its entire height. Exemplary item B has a maximum diameter or lateral dimension (diameter is approximately 2.25 inches or approximately 58 mm). Item B has a top or top closure having a diameter or lateral dimension (diameter is approximately 2.125 inches or 54.8 mm).

[0108] The neck may be provided with an outwardly protruding flange, i.e., may be provided with an undercut for engaging with the carrier. The top closure may be attached to the sidewall of Item B to form a flange-forming seam or "chime." In some embodiments, the difference in diameter between the top closure and the body of Item B is less than 7 mm, less than 5 mm, or optionally less than 4 mm.

[0109] As used herein, the term "sleek" or "slim" refers to an article B that has little or no change in lateral dimension between the top closure that engages the carrier 90, 190, 390 and the body of the article B. The article B has substantially parallel sides or a substantially uniform diameter.

[0110] Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown a blank 10 comprising a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, including a main panel 12 for forming the top wall or mating panel of a carrier 90 (see FIG. 2).

[0111] Blank 10 includes a first end panel 14 hinged to a first end of main panel 12 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 13. Blank 10 includes a second end panel 16 hinged to a second side of main panel 12 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 15.

[0112] Blank 10 includes a first side panel 18 hinged to a first side of main panel 12 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 17. Blank 10 includes a second side panel 20 hinged to a second side of main panel 12 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 19.

[0113] The main panel 12 includes at least one item retention structure RT1, RT2. In the illustrated embodiment, the main panel 12 includes a plurality of item retention structures RT1, RT2, specifically eight item retention structures RT1, RT2 arranged in a 4x2 matrix or array. The main panel 12 includes two rows of item retention structures RT1, RT2, each row including two item retention structures RT1, RT2. Each item retention structure RT1, RT2 may include an aperture A1, A2.

[0114] The blank 10 includes four first item retention structures RT1. The first item retention structures RT1 are positioned adjacent to the ends of the main panel 12. The blank 10 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 12 and a second pair of first item retention structures RT1 positioned adjacent to the second end of the main panel 12. The second item retention structures RT2 are also referred to herein as intermediate item retention structures RT2. The first item retention structures RT1 are also referred to herein as final item retention structures RT1.

[0115] Because each of the first item retaining structures RT1 is substantially similar in structure, they will be described in detail with reference to the first of the first item retaining structures RT1 positioned adjacent the first end of the blank 10 as shown in FIG.

[0116] The first item retaining structure RT1 includes an item receiving opening defined in part by an aperture A1.

[0117] The first article retaining structure RT1 includes a plurality of engagement teeth 40a, 40b, 40c arranged around the periphery of the aperture A1.

[0118] The plurality of tines 40a, 40b, 40c are hingedly connected to the main panel 12 by fold lines. The fold lines may be defined by a plurality of cut lines 43, 45. The plurality of cut lines 43, 45 may define or approximate a rectangle with rounded corners or rounded corners.

[0119] The first article retaining structure RT1 may include a plurality of first teeth or full teeth 40a arranged around the aperture A1. Each of the plurality of first teeth 40a includes an engagement edge E1 opposite the hinge edge. The engagement edge E1 is defined by a straight portion of the cut line defining the aperture A1. Each engagement edge E1 defines a portion of a polygon. The illustrated embodiment includes four first teeth 40a. Each tooth 46 includes a pair of side edges, each defined by a cut line 41 extending radially outward from each vertex of the polygon. That is, the cut lines 41 extend radially from each vertex between two adjacent straight portions of the cut line defining the aperture A1. The cut lines 41 are arranged diverging from one another and define an angle therebetween, which may be approximately 22.5°.

[0120] The first article retaining structure RT1 may include a plurality of first circumferential cut lines 43. Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 43 is aligned with one of the radial cut lines 41 such that one of the radial cut lines 41 or a conceptual extension thereof bisects a respective one of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 43.

[0121] Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 43 is spaced apart from one of the radial cut lines 41 so as to define a connecting nick or bridge portion between adjacent pairs of teeth 40 a, 40 b, 40 c. Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 43 may be linear.

[0122] The first article retaining structure RT1 may include a plurality of second circumferential cut lines 45. Each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 45 is disposed between a pair of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 43 and spaced apart therefrom to define a pair of connecting nicks or bridge portions between each of the teeth 40 a, 40 b, 40 c and the main panel 12. The pair of connecting nicks or bridge portions provides a hinged or folding connection between each of the teeth 40 a, 40 b, 40 c and the main panel 12.

[0123] Each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 45 may be straight. In alternative embodiments, each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 43 may be arcuate or curved. In alternative embodiments, each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 45 may be arcuate or curved.

[0124] In the illustrated embodiment, the radius of curvature of each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 45 is equal to the radius of curvature of each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 43, but may be different in other embodiments.

[0125] Optionally, the plurality of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c are interrupted by a first recess or notch C1. The first recess C1 lies on a first imaginary line. The first imaginary line extends radially through the center of the aperture A1 and passes through the center of the first recess C1. The first imaginary line extends laterally across the blank 10. The first imaginary line may extend along the grain of the blank 10. The first imaginary line may be oriented parallel to the grain direction.

[0126] Optionally, the plurality of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c are interrupted by second recesses or notches C2. The second recesses C2 lie on a second imaginary line. The second imaginary line extends radially from the center of the aperture A1 and passes through the center of the second recesses C2. The second imaginary line extends in the longitudinal direction of the blank 10. The second imaginary line may extend across the grain of the blank 10. The second imaginary line may be oriented perpendicular to the grain direction.

[0127] The first recess C1 is dimensioned to occupy a first arc defined by a first subsector defined in part by a first sector imaginary line extending radially from the center of the aperture A1 and passing through a side edge of a first partial tooth 40b located adjacent a first side of the first recess C1, and in part by a second sector imaginary line extending radially from the center of the aperture A1 and passing through a side edge of a second partial tooth 40b located adjacent a second, opposite side of the first recess C1.

[0128] The second recess C2 is dimensioned to occupy a second arc defined by a second subsector defined in part by a third sector imaginary line extending radially from the center of the aperture A1 and passing through a side edge of a third partial tooth 40b located adjacent to a first side of the second recess C2, and in part by a fourth sector imaginary line extending radially from the center of the aperture A1 and passing through a side edge of a fourth partial tooth 40b located adjacent to a second opposite side of the second recess C2.

[0129] The first and third sector imaginary lines define a first toothed sector or arc therebetween, and the second and fourth sector imaginary lines define a second toothed sector or arc therebetween.

[0130] The first item retaining structure RT1 may include at least one tab 42, 44. In the illustrated embodiment, it includes a pair of tabs 42, 44. The tabs 42, 44 are arranged perpendicular to each other around the periphery of the opening. The tabs 42, 44 may engage an item received in the first item retaining structure RT1, but the tabs 42, 44 do not support or bear the load of item B (or any portion thereof).

[0131] The tabs 42, 44 facilitate folding of the side panels 14 and end panels 16, 18, 20 and / or facilitate retention of the side panels 14, 16, 18, 20 and end panels 14, 16, 18, 20 in the folded position.

[0132] Each of the first item retaining structures RT1 may include at least one first tab 42 integrated with one of the first and second end panels 14, 16. The first tab 42 is disposed opposite the second recess C2. The center of the first tab 42 lies on the second imaginary line.

[0133] Each of the first item retaining structures RT1 may include at least one second tab 44 integrated with one of the first side panel 18 and the second side panel 20. The second tab 44 is disposed opposite the first recess C1. The center of the second tab 44 is on the first imaginary line.

[0134] The first tab 42 and the second tab 44 are defined, at least in part, by a cut line. The cut line is substantially "U" shaped. The cut line is asymmetrical. The cut line includes a base portion that defines a portion of the aperture A1 and a pair of legs extending therefrom. The first leg is longer than the second leg. The first leg may terminate in a "J" or "C" shaped cut. The first leg is positioned closer to a corner of the main panel 12 than the second leg.

[0135] The first article retaining structure RT1 may include second partial teeth 40c disposed on opposite sides of the first tab 42 and the second tab 44. The second partial teeth 40c are separated from either the first tab 42 or the second tab 44 by either the first leg or the second leg of a "U"-shaped cut line.

[0136] The first tab 42 and the second tab 44 are longer or taller than the engagement teeth 40a, 40b, 40c and can be considered to extend into the aperture A1 to reduce the width or radius of the aperture A1.

[0137] The plurality of first and second circumferential cut lines 43, 45 define a non-circular opening, which may be rounded or truncated.

[0138] The full teeth 40a may have a constant radial height dimension across the arc or sector they define. The hinge connection of each full tooth 40a may define a portion of a circle or a portion of a radius.

[0139] The partial teeth 40b, 40c may have a radial height dimension that varies across their width. The height of the partial teeth 40b, 40c, i.e., the distance between the hinge connection to the main panel 12 and the opposite free end defined by the aperture A1, may decrease toward the recesses C1, C2 or tabs 42, 44.

[0140] The first item retaining structure RT1 may include individual groups of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c defined between a pair of recesses C1, C2, between a pair of tabs 42, 44, or between one of the recesses C1, C2 and one of the tabs 42, 44. Each group of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c may include one full tooth 40a and a pair of partial teeth 40b, 40c. The partial teeth 40b, 40c may be positioned opposite the full tooth 40a and separated therefrom by a radial cut line 41. The first item retaining structure RT1 may include at least one, two, or more individual groups of at least two, three, or more teeth 40a, 40b, 40c.

[0141] Each group of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c is hingedly connected to the main panel 12 by a hinge connection that is non-circular and may be defined by a portion of a rounded, truncated, oblate, or rounded square. The shape may be or approximate a super-ellipse or hyper-ellipse.

[0142] Since each of the second item holding structures RT2 is substantially similar in structure, they will be described in detail with reference to the first item holding structure of the second item holding structure RT2 arranged adjacent to the first item holding structure of the first item holding structure RT1, as shown in Figure 1.

[0143] The second item retaining structure RT2 includes an item receiving opening partially defined by a second aperture A2.

[0144] The second article retaining structure RT2 includes a plurality of teeth 50a, 50b, 50c arranged around the periphery of the second aperture A2.

[0145] The plurality of tines 50a, 50b, 50c are hinged to the main panel 12 by fold lines. The fold lines are defined by a plurality of cut lines 53, 55. The plurality of cut lines 53, 55 may define or approximate rounded corners.

[0146] The second aperture A2 may include a plurality of first teeth or full teeth 50a arranged around the periphery of the second aperture A2. Each of the plurality of first teeth 50a includes an engagement edge E2 opposite the hinge edge. The engagement edge E2 is defined by a straight portion of the cut line defining the second aperture A2. Each engagement edge E2 defines a portion or side of a polygon. The illustrated embodiment includes four first teeth 50a, each defining a portion of a polygon. Each tooth 50a includes a pair of side edges, each defined by cut lines 51 extending radially outward from a respective vertex of the polygon. That is, from each vertex between a pair of adjacent straight portions of the cut line defining the second aperture A2. The cut lines 51 are arranged divergently relative to each other and define an angle therebetween, which may be approximately 22.5°.

[0147] The second article retaining structure RT2 may include a plurality of first circumferential cut lines 53. Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 53 is aligned with one of the radial cut lines 51, and one of the radial cut lines 41, or a conceptual extension thereof, bisects a respective one of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 53.

[0148] Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 53 is spaced apart from one of the radial cut lines 41 so as to define a connecting nick or bridge portion between an adjacent pair of teeth 50 a, 50 b, 50 c. The connecting nick or bridge portion is located near the base of the teeth 50 a, 50 b, 50 c.

[0149] Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 53 may be a straight line.

[0150] The second article retaining structure RT2 may include a plurality of second circumferential cut lines 55. Each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 55 is disposed between a pair of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 53 and spaced apart therefrom so as to define a pair of connecting nicks or bridge portions between each of the teeth 50 a, 50 b, 50 c and the main panel 12. The pair of connecting nicks or bridge portions provides a hinged or folding connection between each of the teeth 50 a, 50 b, 50 c and the main panel 12.

[0151] Each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 55 may be a straight line.

[0152] The plurality of teeth 50a, 50b, 50c are interrupted by a first recess or cutout C1, a second recess or cutout C2, and a third recess or cutout C3. The second and third recesses C2, C3 each lie on a second imaginary line extending in the longitudinal direction of the blank 10. The second imaginary line extends radially from the center of the second aperture A2 and passes through the centers of the second and third recesses C2, C3.

[0153] The first and second recesses C1, C2 have substantially the same structure and arrangement as the first and second recesses C1, C2 of the first article holding structure RT1. The third recess is arranged in the opposite direction to the second recesses C1, C2, but has substantially the same structure and arrangement as the second recesses C1, C2.

[0154] The second recess C2 and the third recess C3 are located diametrically opposite each other.

[0155] The first recess C1 is oriented or positioned to be substantially perpendicular to the second recess C2 and the third recess C3.

[0156] The centers of the second recess C2 and the third recess C3 of the second article holding structure RT2 are on the same straight line as the center of the second recess C2 of the first article holding structure RT1.

[0157] The third recess C3 of the second article holding structure RT2 is disposed adjacent to the second recess C2 of the first article holding structure RT1 and faces in the opposite direction to the second article holding structure RT1.

[0158] The first recess C1 of each second article holding structure RT2 is disposed adjacent to and faces in the opposite direction to the first recess C1 of the adjacently disposed second article holding structure RT2.

[0159] The first recess C1 of each first article holding structure RT1 is disposed adjacent to and faces in the opposite direction to the first recess C1 of the adjacently disposed first article holding structure RT1.

[0160] The second item retaining structure RT2 may include at least one tab 54. The illustrated embodiment includes a single tab 54. The tab 54 may engage an item received in the second item retaining structure RT2, but the tab 54 does not support or bear the load of item B (or any portion thereof).

[0161] Tab 54 facilitates folding one of the side panels 18, 20 and / or facilitates holding the side panels 18, 20 in the folded position.

[0162] Each of the second item retaining structures RT2 includes a tab 54 integral with one of the first side panel 18 and the second side panel 20. The tab 54 is located opposite the first recess C1. The center of the tab 54 is on the first imaginary line.

[0163] Tab 54 is defined, at least in part, by a cut line. The cut line is substantially "U" shaped. The cut line is symmetrical. The cut line includes a base that defines a portion of aperture A2 and a pair of legs extending therefrom. One leg has a length equal to the other leg.

[0164] The second article retaining structure RT2 may include a second partial tooth 50c disposed opposite the tab 54. The second partial tooth 50c is separated from the tab 54 by either the first leg or the second leg of a "U"-shaped cut line.

[0165] Tab 54 is longer or taller than engagement teeth 50a, 50b, 50c and can be thought of as extending into aperture A2 to reduce the width or radius of aperture A2.

[0166] The plurality of first and second circumferential cut lines 53, 55 define a non-circular opening, which may be rounded or truncated.

[0167] The full teeth 50a may have a constant radial height dimension across the arc or sector they define. The hinge connection of each full tooth 50a may define a portion of a circle.

[0168] The partial teeth 50b, 50c may have a radial height dimension that varies across their width. The height of the partial teeth 50b, 50c, i.e., the distance between the hinge connection to the main panel 12 and the opposite free end defined by the aperture A2, may decrease toward the recesses C1, C2, C3 or the tab 54.

[0169] The partial teeth 50b, 50c may have a radial height dimension that varies across their width. The height of the partial teeth 50b, 50c, i.e., the distance between the hinge connection to the main panel 12 and the opposite free end defined by the aperture A2, may decrease toward the recesses C1, C2, C3 or tab 54. The partial teeth 50b, 50c are positioned opposite the full tooth 50a and are separated from the full tooth 50a by a radial cut line 51. The second article retaining structure RT2 may include at least one, two, or more individual groups of at least two, three, or more teeth 50a, 50b, 50c.

[0170] Each group of teeth 50a, 50b, 50c is hingedly connected to the main panel 12 by a hinge connection that may be non-circular and defined by a portion of a rounded, truncated, oblate, or rounded square. The shape may be or approximate a super-ellipse or super-super-ellipse.

[0171] The fold line 13 that hinges the first end panel 14 to the main panel 12 is non-linear and may be curved or arcuate. The fold line 13 that hinges the first end panel 14 to the main panel 12 extends substantially between a pair of adjacently arranged first article retaining structures RT1. The fold line 13 defines a convex hinge portion when viewed from the outside.

[0172] The fold line 15 that hinges the second end panel 16 to the main panel 12 is non-linear and may be curved or arcuate. The fold line 15 that hinges the second end panel 16 to the main panel 12 extends substantially between a pair of adjacently arranged first article retaining structures RT1. The fold line 15 defines a convex hinge portion when viewed from the outside.

[0173] The fold line 17 hingedly connecting the first side panel 18 to the main panel 12 is non-linear and may be curved or arcuate. The fold line 17 hingedly connecting the first side panel 18 to the main panel 12 includes a plurality of curved portions that extend substantially between the pair of adjacently disposed article retention structures RT1, RT2. When viewed externally, the fold line 17 defines a plurality of convex hinge portions.

[0174] The fold line 19 hingeably connecting the second side panel 20 to the main panel 12 is non-linear and may be curved or arcuate. The fold line 19 hingeably connecting the second side panel 20 to the main panel 12 includes a plurality of curved portions that extend substantially between the pair of adjacently disposed article retention structures RT1, RT2. When viewed externally, the fold line 19 defines a plurality of convex hinge portions.

[0175] Each curved hinge portion extends substantially between a pair of tabs 42,44.

[0176] Each curved fold line 13, 15, 17, 19 curves toward and terminates near the curved hinge connection between the groups of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c, 50a, 50b, 50c.

[0177] Each curved fold line 13, 15, 17, 19 and / or curved hinge connection between the groups of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c; 50a, 50b, 50c terminates at or very near the end of the cut line defining the tab 42,44.

[0178] In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1 , fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 are defined by a plurality of spaced-apart cut lines. The curvilinear hinge connection between the group of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c; 50a, 50b, 50c and main panel 12 is defined by a plurality of spaced-apart circumferential cut lines 43, 45, 53, 55. The notional extension of the extreme or terminal cut line defining fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 intersects or converges with the notional extension of the extreme or terminal cut line defining the curvilinear hinge connection between the group of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c; 50a, 50b, 50c and main panel 12, which in the illustrated embodiment is provided by one of second circumferential cut lines 45, 55.

[0179] Each curved fold line 13, 15, 17, 19 may converge at a respective curved hinge connection between a group of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c, 50a, 50b, 50c at or near tabs 42, 44 and may converge at the end of the cut line defining tabs 42, 44.

[0180] This has the advantage of directing loads or stresses to the side walls of article B, increasing the structural integrity or rigidity of carrier 90, which can be particularly advantageous against impact forces directed at the ends or sides of carrier 90.

[0181] The curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 may create tension or bias in the side or end walls 14, 16, 18, 20, which may increase the impact resistance of the side or end walls 14, 16, 18, 20.

[0182] The curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 create tension or bias in the side or end walls 14, 16, 18, 20, which may create an over-center or toggle mechanism, resulting in bistability, i.e., two stable states or configurations: a stable folded position and a stable unfolded position. This facilitates holding the side or end walls 14, 16, 18, 20 in a folded position relative to the main panel 12 in addition to or instead of the tabs 42, 44. In this manner, the need for adhesive or other fastening means is eliminated.

[0183] The fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 are non-linear and at least one end curves around one of the article holding structures RT1, RT2 toward an adjacent annular fold line, which is defined by a plurality of circumferential cut lines 43, 45, 53, 55.

[0184] The fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 are non-linear and at least one end is curved toward the adjacent engaging tooth 40c.

[0185] The fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 are non-linear, with at least one end curved toward the adjacent article receiving opening or aperture A1, A2.

[0186] Fold lines 17, 19 are curved such that a first distance d1 between the end of fold line 17, 19 and a second imaginary line YY oriented in the longitudinal direction of blank 10 and passing through the center of receiving aperture A1, A2 is less than a second distance d2, which is the maximum distance between line YY and the respective fold line 17, 19. It will be appreciated that fold lines 13, 15 are similarly positioned relative to a first imaginary line XX oriented in the transverse direction of blank 10 and passing through the center of receiving aperture A1.

[0187] First end panel 14 is hingedly connected to main panel 12 at first and second ends by first and second sections of a hinge connection in the form of a pair of fold lines 13a, 13b that are divergently disposed relative to one another.

[0188] The first side panel 18 is hingedly connected to the main panel 12 at first and second ends by first and second sections of a hinge connection in the form of a pair of fold lines 17a, 17b that are divergently disposed relative to one another.

[0189] A first end of first end panel 14 and a first end of first side panel 18 are hinged about a first corner 12a of main panel 12. First section 13a of fold line 13 and first section 17a of fold line 17 are arranged to converge and may be diagonally arranged relative to one another. First section 13a of fold line 13 and first section 17a of fold line 17 at least partially define a generally triangular corner of main panel 12 adjacent first item retention structure RT1.

[0190] Second end panel 16 is hingedly connected to main panel 12 at first and second ends by first and second sections of a hinge connection in the form of a pair of fold lines 15a, 15b that are divergently positioned relative to one another.

[0191] The second side panel 20 is hingedly connected to the main panel 12 at first and second ends by first and second sections of the hinge connection in the form of a pair of fold lines 19a, 19b. The pair of fold lines 97a, 19b are arranged to diverge relative to one another.

[0192] The main panel 12 is comprised of four corner regions 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d, each defined at least in part by diagonally disposed fold line sections 13a, 17a, 13b, 19a, 15a, 17b, 15b, 19b.

[0193] The blank 10 may include a handle structure H.

[0194] The handle structure H includes a handle or finger opening located on a longitudinal axis that bisects the main panel 12 .

[0195] A handle opening is provided between the groups of four item retention structures RT1, RT2. The group of four item retention structures RT1, RT2 is provided in the center of the main panel 12. The handle opening is located between the second row of intermediate item retention structures RT2 and the third row of intermediate item retention structures RT2. The handle opening is located in the center of the second group of four item retention structures RT2.

[0196] The handle opening is located at least partially between the first row of item retaining structures RT1, RT2 and the second row of item retaining structures RT1, RT2.

[0197] The handle opening is defined by a plurality of tabs 60, 62. The handle opening is comprised of four tabs 60, 62. Each tab 60, 62 is hingedly connected to the main panel 12 by a fold line hinge connection. Arcuate or curved cut lines may be provided between each fold line to define the corners or vertices of the handle opening. The handle opening is substantially diamond-shaped or rhombus-shaped, although other shapes may be employed in other embodiments, such as, but not limited to, a square. The handle opening comprises a pair of major tabs 60 and a pair of minor tabs 62.

[0198] A pair of major tabs 60 are separated from one another by a first cut or severable line. A pair of minor tabs 62 are separated from one another by a first cut or severable line.

[0199] The pair of major tabs 60 are separated from the pair of minor tabs 62 by a second cut or severable line.

[0200] The first cut line is collinear with an imaginary line that intersects the centers of the group of four intermediate article retaining structures RT2.

[0201] The first cut line may be straight and extend between a first pair of opposing vertices of the handle opening.

[0202] The second cut lines may be non-linear and may extend between a second pair of opposing vertices of the handle opening, the second cut lines may intersect the first cut lines, and the second cut lines may have a "V" or "U" shaped intermediate portion, with the vertices of the "V" or "U" shaped portion intersecting the first cut lines.

[0203] One of the pair of main tabs 60 is hinged to the main panel 12 by a first fold line. The other of the pair of main tabs 60 is hinged to the main panel 12 by a second fold line. The first fold line is divergent from the second fold line.

[0204] One of the pair of minor tabs 62 is hinged to the main panel 12 by a third fold line. The other of the pair of minor tabs 62 is hinged to the main panel 12 by a fourth fold line. The third fold line is arranged to diverge from the fourth fold line.

[0205] The first fold line is divergently disposed relative to the third fold line, and the second fold line is divergently disposed relative to the fourth fold line.

[0206] Each of the pair of main tabs 60 may have a fold line extending therethrough. The fold line may be substantially parallel to the fold line hingeably connecting each of the pair of main tabs 60 to the main panel 12. The fold line may extend between a first cut line or severable line and a second cut line or severable line. The fold line intersecting the pair of main tabs 60 may define a V-shaped fold line disposed opposite the V- or U-shaped central portion of the second cut line.

[0207] The blank 10 may include one, two, or more alignment or registration devices W1, W2. Each of the registration devices W1, W2 is in the form of a notch or recess that defines a registration edge of the blank 10 for receiving or engaging a reference pin (described in more detail below). The blank 10 includes a pair of first registration devices W1 that define a downstream or leading registration edge, respectively. The blank 10 may also include a pair of registration devices W2 that define an upstream or trailing registration edge, respectively. The notches or recesses that define the registration devices W1, W2 are stamped out of either the first side panel 18 or the second side panel 20, respectively.

[0208] The alignment devices W1 and W2 are positioned so that they are offset (inset) from the end edge of the main panel 12, which is defined by fold lines 13, 13a, 13b, 15, 15a, and 15b. Insetting the alignment devices W1 and W2 is advantageous because it allows the tool carrying the reference pins to be more compact and does not extend beyond the footprint of the group of articles in either the upstream or downstream direction. An imaginary line N1 passing through the alignment edge of the first alignment device W1 of the pair passes through a pair of first openings and / or apertures A1 of the first article holding structure RT1. An imaginary line N2 passing through the alignment edge of the second alignment device W2 of the pair passes through a pair of second openings and / or apertures A1 of the second article holding structure RT1.

[0209] The blank 10 may include at least one stabilizing device M. In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 10 includes two stabilizing devices M. The stabilizing devices are in the form of openings cut out of the blank 10. A first stabilizing device M may be positioned between a first group of four item retaining structures RT1, RT2 located near the first or leading end edge of the blank 10 and centered between the groups of item retaining structures RT1, RT2. A second stabilizing device M may be positioned between a second group of four item retaining structures RT1, RT2 located near the second or trailing end edge of the blank 10 and centered between the groups of item retaining structures RT1, RT2. The stabilizing devices M are configured to receive abutment pegs or dogs (described in more detail below).

[0210] The opening in the stabilizing device M need not be circular, but may be substantially square or diamond-shaped. The opening may be defined by at least one tab 94 that is punched out of and hinged to the main panel 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the opening is defined by a pair of tabs that are punched out of and hinged to opposite sides of the main panel 12. The pair of tabs 94 may be separated from each other by a cut or severable line 95.

[0211] In some embodiments, the stabilizing device M may be configured to provide additional handle openings. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the stabilizing device M is generally too small to accommodate a finger or portion of a user's finger. This is advantageous in that more substrate material is provided in the main panel 12 between the stabilizing device M and the openings in the item retaining structures RT1, RT2, thereby improving the robustness and integrity of the article carrier 90.

[0212] In other embodiments, the handle opening may be configured for use as a stabilizing device. Pegs or dogs may be provided that engage the blank 10 through the handle opening to prevent or inhibit linear or rotational movement of the blank 10 relative to the dogs. The dogs may be attached to or integral with an applicator device (described in more detail below) for applying the blank 10 to a group of articles B.

[0213] The opening of the stabilization device or handle opening may include at least one flat or straight portion for engaging a complementary flat or straight portion of the dog. In other embodiments, the opening of the stabilization device or handle may include at least one generally "V" or "U" shaped portion for engaging a complementary portion of the dog.

[0214] The blank 10 is assembled around the group of articles B. The main panel 12 of the blank 10 is applied to the group of articles B. The main panel 12 is lowered onto the articles B. Each of the article retaining structures RT1, RT2 receives one of the articles B.

[0215] The blank 10 is folded about fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 along the sides and edges of the group of articles, with the side and end panels in face-to-face relationship.

[0216] Tabs 42, 44 fold along the side walls of their respective articles B. Tabs 42, 44 remain substantially flush with the side or end panels 14, 16, 18, 20 from which they extend. The inner surfaces of tabs 43, 44 abut the side walls, rims, or chimes of article B.

[0217] FIG. 2 shows the carrier 90 assembled, with the tabs 42, 44 abutting the side walls of the article B, urging the side panel 14 and end panels 16, 18, 20 into the folded position.

[0218] Corner regions 12a, 12b, 12c, and 12d of main panel 12 adopt a non-coplanar arrangement with main panel 12. Corner regions 12a, 12b, 12c, and 12d slope upward as they extend outward due to the convergence of fold line pairs 13a / 17a, 13b / 19a, 15a / 17b, and 15b / 19b. This provides additional strength or rigidity to carrier 90 and is beneficial in reducing the likelihood of deformation when carrier 90 is wrapped in a sheet or film material, such as heat wrap or shrink wrap.

[0219] In the assembled carrier 90, each of the curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 meets or joins with a curved hinge connection between an adjacent group of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c, 50a, 50b, 50c and the main panel 12. The curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 and the curved hinge connections may define or form converging fold lines or creases in the substrate forming the carrier 90. In other embodiments, each of the curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 is joined or joined to an adjacent curved hinge connection by a third fold line or crease. The curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 and the curved hinge connections meet or join at a location disposed proximate to the item B.

[0220] In some embodiments, the curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 have the effect of causing the side and / or end walls 14, 16, 18, 20 in the area between a pair of adjacent articles B to curve outward and appear convex from an external perspective.

[0221] In some embodiments, the curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 have the effect of causing the main panel 12 to curve downward in the area between a pair of adjacent articles B, appearing concave when viewed from an external perspective above the main panel 112. In such embodiments, the side and / or end walls 14, 16, 18, 20 may be substantially planar.

[0222] 3 and 4, an alternative blank for use in the packaging system of the present disclosure is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, like numerals are used to designate like parts where possible, but the prefix "100" has been added to indicate that these features belong to the second embodiment. Because the alternative embodiment shares much in common with the embodiment of FIGS. 1 and 2, only the differences from the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 and 2 will be described in detail.

[0223] FIG. 3 shows a blank 110 that includes a plurality of panels 112, 114A, 114B, 116A, 116B, 118, 120, including a main panel 112 for forming the top wall or mating panel of a carrier 190 (see FIG. 4).

[0224] The main panel 112 includes at least one item retention structure RT1, RT2. The main panel 112 includes a plurality of item retention structures RT1, RT2, specifically eight item retention structures RT1, RT2 arranged in a 2x4 matrix or array. Each item retention structure RT1, RT2 includes an opening or aperture A1, A2.

[0225] 1. The item retention structures RT1, RT2 of FIG. 3 are substantially similar to the item retention structures RT1, RT2 of FIG. 1, although tabs 142, 144, 154 have a smaller height dimension relative to tooth 140 than tabs 42, 44, 54 of FIG.

[0226] A first side panel 118 is hingedly connected to a first side of the main panel 112 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 117 .

[0227] A second side panel 120 is hingedly connected to a second side of the main panel 112 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 119 .

[0228] Blank 110 includes a first end structure including a first upper end panel 114A hingedly connected to a first end of main panel 112 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 113A. A first lower end panel 114B is hingedly connected to first upper end panel 114A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 113B.

[0229] The first end structure includes a first corner panel 160A hingedly connected to a first end of the first side panel 118 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 161 A. A second corner panel 160B is hingedly connected to a first end of the second side panel 120 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 161B.

[0230] The first end structure includes a first fixed panel 164A hingedly connected to a first corner panel 160A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 163A. A second fixed panel 164B is hingedly connected to a second corner panel 160B by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 163B.

[0231] The first web panel 168A is hinged at one end to the first fixed panel 164A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 169A and at a second end to the first top panel 114A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 171A.

[0232] The second web panel 168B is hinged at one end to the second fixed panel 164B by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 169B and at the other end to the first top panel 114A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 171B.

[0233] The blank 110 includes a second end structure including a second top panel 116A hingedly connected to a second end of the main panel 112 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 115A. A second bottom panel 116B is hingedly connected to the second top panel 116A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 115B.

[0234] The second end structure includes a third corner panel 162A hingedly connected to the second end of the first side panel 118 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 165A. A fourth corner panel 162B is hingedly connected to the second end of the second side panel 120 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 165B.

[0235] The first end structure includes a third fixed panel 166A hingedly connected to a third corner panel 162A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 167A. A fourth fixed panel 166B is hingedly connected to a fourth corner panel 162B by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 167B.

[0236] The third web panel 170A is hinged at one end to the third fixed panel 166A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 173A and at the other end to the second top panel 116A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 175A.

[0237] The fourth web panel 170B is hinged at one end to the fourth fixed panel 166B by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 173B and at the other end to the second top panel 116A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 175B.

[0238] It will be appreciated that the first side panel 118, the first corner panel 160A, the first fastening panel 164A, the third corner panel 162A, and the third fastening panel 166A form a first strap 164A / 160A / 118 / 162A / 166A along a first side of the main panel 112. The second side panel 120, the second corner panel 160B, the second fastening panel 164B, the fourth corner panel 162B, and the fourth fastening panel 166B form a second strap 164B / 160B / 120 / 162B / 166B along a second side of the main panel 112.

[0239] The blank 110 includes a first flap 172 hingedly connected to the first bottom panel 114B by a hinge connection. The hinge connection is defined, at least in part, by a cut line V1. The cut line V1 defines a tab P1 extending from the outer side or bottom edge of the first bottom panel 114B. The cut line V1 forms a receiver in the form of an opening, slot, or slit for receiving a locking tab or detent C1. Each of the first and second securing panels 164A, 164B includes a locking tab or detent C1 extending from its bottom edge.

[0240] The first flap 172 can include a pair of wing portions 174A, 174B hingedly connected by respective fold lines 177A, 177B at a central portion of the first flap 172. The fold lines 177A, 177B are disposed to diverge from one another, and the fold lines 177A, 177B diverge toward the first bottom panel 114B.

[0241] Each of the first and second securing panels 164A, 164B has a cutout in the form of an aperture A5. Each aperture A5 forms a second receiver for receiving a respective second locking tab or detent C2. The first top panel 114A has a pair of generally "U"-shaped cut lines 101, each cut line defining a respective detent C2.

[0242] The blank 110 includes a second flap 176 hingedly connected to the second bottom panel 116B by a hinge connection. The hinge connection is defined, at least in part, by a cut line V2. The cut line V2 defines a second tab P2 extending from the outer side or bottom edge of the second bottom panel 116B. The cut line V2 forms a receiver in the form of an opening, slot, or slit for receiving a locking tab or detent C2. Each of the third and fourth fastening panels 166A, 166B includes a locking tab or detent C2 extending from its bottom edge.

[0243] The second flap 176 can include a pair of wing portions 178A, 178B hingedly connected by respective fold lines 178A, 178B at a central portion of the second flap 176. The fold lines 179A, 179B are disposed to diverge from one another, and the fold lines 179A, 179B diverge toward the second bottom panel 116B.

[0244] Each of the third and fourth securing panels 166A, 166B includes a cutout in the form of an aperture A5. Each aperture A5 forms a second receiver for receiving a respective second locking tab or detent C2. The second top panel 116A includes a pair of substantially "U"-shaped cut lines 101, each cut line defining a respective detent C2.

[0245] The end structure is folded over to secure the first and second side panels 118, 120 to the sides of group of items B. The blank 110 is applied to group of items B in a flat configuration and folded around it.

[0246] The main panel 112 is lowered against group of items B. The first and second side panels 118, 120 are folded around opposite sides of group of items B. The corner panels 160A, 160B, 162A, 162B are folded around the corners of group of items B, and the fixed panels 164A, 164B, 166A, 166B are folded around the ends of group of items B.

[0247] The first and second top panels 114A, 116A are folded downward about their respective ends of item group B. The first and second bottom panels 114B, 116B are folded upward relative to the first and second top panels 114A, 116A, allowing detents C2 to be inserted into apertures A5. The first and second bottom panels 114B, 116B are folded downward to return to a substantially coplanar relationship with the first and second hinged top panels 114A, 116A, respectively.

[0248] The first flap 172 and the second flap 176 are folded inward, and the wing portions 174A, 174B, 176A, 176B are folded toward the center to pass through the side walls of the adjacently positioned item B, as shown in FIG.

[0249] The blank 110 may include at least one alignment or registration device W1, W2, or at least two alignment or registration devices W1, W2. Each of the alignment devices W1, W2 takes the form of a notch or recess that defines an alignment edge of the blank 110 and receives or engages a reference pin (described in more detail below). The blank 110 includes a pair of first alignment devices W1 that define a downstream or leading alignment edge, respectively. The blank 110 includes a pair of alignment devices W2 that define an upstream or trailing alignment edge, respectively. The notches or recesses that define the alignment devices W1, W2 are stamped out of either the first or second side panels 118, 120, respectively.

[0250] The blank 110 may include at least one stabilizing device M. In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 110 includes two stabilizing devices M. The stabilizing devices are in the form of openings cut out of the blank 110. A first stabilizing device M may be positioned between a first group of four item retaining structures RT1, RT2 located near a first or leading end edge of the blank 110 and centered between the groups of item retaining structures RT1, RT2. A second stabilizing device M may be positioned between a second group of four item retaining structures RT1, RT2 located near a second or trailing end edge of the blank 110 and centered between the groups of item retaining structures RT1, RT2. The stabilizing devices M are configured to receive abutment pegs or dogs (described in more detail below).

[0251] The opening in the stabilizing device M need not be circular, but may be substantially square or diamond-shaped. The opening may be defined by at least one tab 194 that is punched out of and hinged to the main panel 112. In the illustrated embodiment, the opening is defined by a pair of tabs that are punched out of and hinged to opposite sides of the main panel 112. The pair of tabs 194 may be separated from each other by a cut or severable line 195.

[0252] In some embodiments, the stabilizing device M may be positioned to provide an additional handle opening. In the embodiment of Figure 3, the stabilizing device M is generally too small in size to accommodate a user's finger or portion thereof. This may be advantageous in that a greater amount of substrate material is provided in the main panel 112 between the stabilizing device M and the item retaining structures RT1, RT2, thereby improving the robustness and integrity of the article carrier 190.

[0253] 5A, 5B, and 6, an alternative blank for use in the packaging system of the present disclosure is shown. In the illustrated embodiment, like numerals have been used wherever possible to designate like parts, but the prefix "300" has been added to indicate that these features belong to the third embodiment. Because the alternative embodiment shares much in common with the embodiment of FIGS. 1-4, only the differences from the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-4 will be described in detail.

[0254] Referring to FIG. 5A, there is shown a blank 310 with a plurality of panels 312, 314, 316, 318, 320, including a main panel 312 for forming the bottom wall or engagement panel of a carrier 390 (see FIG. 6).

[0255] A first side panel 314 is hingedly connected to a first side of the main panel 312 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 313. A first top or cover panel 318 is hingedly connected to the first side panel 314 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 317.

[0256] A second side panel 316 is hingedly connected to a second side of the main panel 312 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 315. A second top or cover panel 320 is hingedly connected to the second side panel 316 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 319.

[0257] The main panel 312 of the blank 310 includes at least one item retention structure RT1, RT2. The main panel 312 includes a plurality of item retention structures RT1, RT2, specifically eight item retention structures RT1, RT2 arranged in a 2x4 matrix or array. Each item retention structure RT1, RT2 includes an opening or aperture A1, A2. The item retention structures RT1, RT2 are substantially similar to those shown in Figures 3 and 4 and will not be described in further detail.

[0258] The main panel 312 includes a handle structure. The handle structure includes at least one handle aperture A3. In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 310 includes three handle apertures A2. Each handle aperture A3 is defined in or punched out of an area of ​​the main panel 312 that is centrally located between four apertures A1, A2 arranged in pairs of adjacent two apertures A1, A2.

[0259] The first top panel 318 and the second top panel 320 are positioned to at least partially overlap one another. A locking structure is provided at the overlapping portion of the first top panel 318 and the second top panel 320 for locking the first top panel 318 and the second top panel 320 together. The locking structure interacts with a handle opening in the main panel 312 to secure the first top panel 318 and the second top panel 320 to the main panel 312.

[0260] The locking structure includes at least one receiver RC in the form of an opening in the first top panel 318. The first top panel 318 includes multiple openings, more specifically, three openings, although one, two, or more than three openings may be provided in other embodiments. Each opening is positioned to vertically align with a handle aperture A3 provided in the main panel 312. The opening is defined by at least one tab 392, 394, 396 (also referred to herein as a female tab or receiver tab). In the illustrated embodiment, the opening is defined by three tabs 392, 394, 396. The opening may be substantially square or diamond-shaped. In the illustrated embodiment, the corners of the opening are rounded or filleted. The first tab 396 is hinged to the first top panel 318 by a first hinge connection in the form of a first fold line 391. The second tab 392 is hinged to the first top panel 318 by a second hinge connection in the form of a second fold line 393. The second tab 392 is hinged to the first top panel 318 opposite the first tab 396. The first tab 396 is separated partially from the second tab 392 by a first cut line or cut line 397 and partially by a third tab 394. The third tab 394 is defined by a second cut line or cut line 399. The second cut line 399 is substantially "U" shaped. The third tab 394 is hinged to the first top panel 318 by a third hinge connection in the form of a third fold line 395. The third hinge connection may be disposed adjacent to and substantially perpendicular to the first and / or second hinge connections. The third tab 394 defines a notch or recess in each of the first tab 396 and second tab 392. The notch or recess is cut from the free end edge facing the first and second hinge connections, respectively.

[0261] The locking structure includes at least one locking element L that is received in the receiver RC. The locking element L includes a tab 380 that is stamped from the second top panel 320. In the illustrated embodiment, three tabs 380 are included, and each tab 380 is positioned to be engageable with one of the receiver openings and a respective one of the handle apertures A2. Each tab 380 is hingedly connected to the second top panel 320 by a hinge connection 381. Each tab 380 may include at least one fold line. In the illustrated embodiment, the tab 380 includes a pair of fold lines. The pair of fold lines may be positioned to diverge from each other. Each of the pair of fold lines may be non-linear, for example, but is not limited to, an arcuate or curved shape.

[0262] The non-linear fold line encourages tab 380 to return to a planar configuration, enhancing the security of tab 380 within receiver and handle aperture A3.

[0263] Tab 380 may be substantially "arrow head" shaped to define a pair of opposing shoulders or detents for securely engaging handle aperture A3 and / or receiver RC.

[0264] The first top panel 318, the second top panel 320, the first side panel 314, and the second side panel 316, and the main panel 312 form a tubular structure. Each end of the tubular structure is closed by an end closure structure. The first end closure structure includes a first end panel 324 hingedly connected to a first end of the main panel 312 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 325. A first top end flap 326 is hingedly connected to the first end panel 324 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 327.

[0265] The first anchor flap 322A is hingedly connected to a first end of the first top panel 318 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 323A. The first anchor flap 322A is hingedly connected to the first top flap 326 by a pair of hinge panels 328A, 330A. The pair of hinge panels 328A, 330A form a gusset. The first connection panel 328A is hingedly connected to the first anchor flap 322A by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The second connection panel 330A is hingedly connected to the first connection panel 328A by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line, and the second connection panel 330A is hingedly connected to the first top flap 326 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line.

[0266] The second anchor flap 322B is hingedly connected to a first end of the second top panel 320 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 323B. The second anchor flap 322B is hingedly connected to the first top flap 326 by a pair of hinge panels 328B, 330B forming a second gusset. A third connection panel 328B is hingedly connected to the second anchor flap 322B by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. A fourth connection panel 330B is hingedly connected to the third connection panel 328B by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line, and the fourth connection panel 330B is hingedly connected to the first top flap 326 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line.

[0267] The first end panel 324 is separated from each of the first and second anchor flaps 322A, 322B by an aperture A10. The aperture A10 separates each of the pair of hinge panels 328A / 330A, 328B / 330B from each of the first and second side panels 314, 316.

[0268] The second end closure structure includes a second end panel 334 hingedly connected to a second end of the main panel 312 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 335. A second top end flap 336 is hingedly connected to the second end panel 334 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 337.

[0269] The third anchor flap 332A is hingedly connected to the second end of the first top panel 318 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 333A. The third anchor flap 332A is hingedly connected to the second top flap 336 by a pair of hinge panels 338A, 340A forming a third gusset. A fifth connection panel 338A is hingedly connected to the third anchor flap 332A by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. A sixth connection panel 340A is hingedly connected to the fifth connection panel 338A by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line, and the sixth connection panel 340A is hingedly connected to the second top flap 336 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line.

[0270] The fourth anchor flap 332B is hingedly connected to the second end of the second top panel 320 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 333B. The fourth anchor flap 332B is hingedly connected to the second top flap 336 by a pair of hinge panels 338B, 340B forming a fourth gusset. A seventh connection panel 338B is hingedly connected to the fourth anchor flap 332B by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 339B (see FIG. 5B). An eighth connection panel 340B is hingedly connected to the seventh connection panel 338B by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 355B. The eighth connection panel 340B is hingedly connected to the second top flap 336 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 359B.

[0271] The second end panel 334 is separated from the third and fourth anchor flaps 332A, 332B, respectively, by an aperture A10. The aperture A10 separates each of the pairs of hinge panels 338A / 340A, 338B / 340B from the first and second side panels 314, 316, respectively.

[0272] The blank 310 may include at least two alignment or registration devices W1, W2. Each of the registration devices W1, W2 is in the form of a notch or recess that defines a registration edge of the blank 310 for receiving or engaging a reference pin (described in more detail below). The blank 310 includes a pair of first registration devices W1 that define downstream or leading registration edges, respectively. The blank 310 includes a pair of second registration devices W2 that define upstream or trailing registration edges, respectively. The notches or recesses that define the registration devices W1, W2 are stamped or defined in either of the first and second top panels 318, 320, respectively.

[0273] The blank 310 may include at least one stabilizing device. In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 110 includes three stabilizing devices. Each stabilizing device includes an opening in at least one of the first top panel 318, the second top panel 320, and the main panel 312. Each stabilizing device may include an opening in at least two, or all, of the first top panel 318, the second top panel 320, and the main panel 312. Each stabilizing device is configured to receive an abutment peg or dog (described in more detail below).

[0274] The opening forming at least a portion of the stabilizing device may be non-circular and may be substantially square or diamond shaped. The opening in the panel that accommodates the stabilizing device may be defined by at least one tab punched from and hinged to the panel in which the stabilizing device is formed.

[0275] In the illustrated embodiment, the opening is defined in part by a pair of tabs 370, 372 that are punched out of and hingedly connected to the first top panel 318 on opposite sides of the first top panel 318. The pair of tabs 370, 372 may be separated from one another by a cut or severable line 377.

[0276] The first stabilizing device is configured to be positioned in vertical alignment with a gap or gap between a first group of four articles packaged within carrier 390. The second stabilizing device is configured to be positioned in vertical alignment with a gap or gap between a second group of four articles. The third stabilizing device is configured to be positioned in vertical alignment with a gap or gap between a third group of four articles.

[0277] When constructing a carrier 390 from a blank 310, the blank 310 may be formed into an assembled carrier 390, as shown in FIG.

[0278] The blank 310 is applied to the group of items B. The blank 310 is lowered onto the group of items B. Each item retaining structure RT1, RT2 of the blank 310 is aligned with each item B in the group. A portion of the item B passes through the main panel 312. The toothed region of the main panel 312 around each item retaining structure RT1, RT2 may be folded out of the plane of the main panel 312.

[0279] Each toothed region of the main panel 312 is folded around one of the articles B received in each of the article holding structures RT1, RT2. The main panel 312 deforms around the article B, but is not limited to this. If the article B is a can, a shoulder portion is provided by the neck-in.

[0280] The blank 310 may be partially folded about fold lines 313 , 315 so that the first side panel 314 and the second side panel 316 are in a non-flush relationship with the main panel 312 .

[0281] The blank 310 is folded about fold lines 323A, 323B, 333A, 333B so that the first, second, third and fourth anchor flaps 322A, 322B, 332A, 332B are in a generally face-to-face relationship with the first or second side panel 314, 316 to which they are hinged.

[0282] The blank 310 is folded about fold lines 325, 335 such that the first and second end panels 324, 334 are in a substantially at least perpendicular relationship to the main panel 312. In some embodiments, the first and second end panels 324, 334 may be folded at an angle greater than 90° so as to be skewed.

[0283] The blank 310 is folded about fold lines 327, 337, with the first and second top end flaps 326, 336 folded against the first and second end panels 324, 334, respectively, to which they are hinged.

[0284] The first and second top flaps 326 , 336 may be folded over the top of item B or item B positioned adjacent the first and second ends of the main panel 312 .

[0285] The first and second top flaps 326 , 336 may be folded to be substantially parallel to the main panel 312 .

[0286] When the first, second, third, and fourth anchor flaps 322A, 322B, 332A, 332B are folded into a substantially face-contacting relationship with the first side panel 314 and the second side panel 316, respectively, the first and second end panels 324, 334 and the first and second top flaps 326, 336 may be automatically folded.

[0287] The blank 310 is folded about fold lines 313 , 315 so that the first side panel 314 and the second side panel 316 are in a generally perpendicular relationship to the main panel 312 .

[0288] Blank 310 is folded about fold line 317 so that first top panel 318 is folded over the top of article B. Blank 310 is folded about fold line 319 so that second top panel 320 is folded over the top of article B in an overlapping relationship with first top panel 318 to form composite top panel 318 / 320.

[0289] The locking tabs 380 are positioned downwardly out of plane with the second top panel 320 and pass through their respective receiver openings such that the receiver tabs 392, 394, 396 are out of plane with the first top panel 318.

[0290] The locking tab 380 engages the first receiver tab 396 and the second receiver tab 392. The shoulders of the locking tab 380 engage the ends of the first receiver tab 396 and the second receiver tab 392 as well as around the periphery of the respective handle aperture A3. The shoulders of the locking tab 380 engage the ends of the first receiver tab 396 and the second receiver tab 392 defined by notches or recesses in the free ends opposite the hinge connections 391, 393 to the first top panel 318.

[0291] The recessed edges of the first and second receiver tabs 396, 392 prevent or inhibit the locking tab 380 from disengaging from the first and second receiver tabs 396, 392.

[0292] The locking tab 380 and the receiver tabs 396, 392 also function as a spacer between the composite top panel 318 / 320 and the main panel 312. The locking tab 380 engages the main panel 312 around the periphery of the handle aperture A3 and / or along the underside of the main panel 312, thereby functioning as a tension member that maintains the spacing between the main panel 312 and the composite top panel 318 / 320 and prevents the spacing from widening. Additionally, the receiver tabs 396, 392 and / or the locking tab 380 engage or abut the inside or top surface of the main panel 312, thereby providing reinforcement between the composite top panel 318 / 320 and the main panel 312 to help maintain the spacing therebetween and prevent the spacing from narrowing. Thus, at least a portion of the locking tab 380 and / or at least a portion of one or more receiver tabs 396, 392 can be positioned between the first top panel 318 and the main panel 312 to maintain the spacing therebetween.

[0293] The locking tab 380 also provides a cushion tab for increased comfort when carrying the package 390 by inserting one or more fingers through the openings in the composite top panel 318 / 320 and main panel 312.

[0294] The first receiver tab 396 and the second receiver tab 392 may extend through the handle aperture A3 when folded.

[0295] The locking tabs 380 may also pass through respective ones of the handle apertures A3 to engage the main panel 312. A shoulder of the locking tab 380 engages the underside of the main panel 312, the underside being a second side of the main panel 312 opposite the first side in which the locking tab 380 is received.

[0296] The third tab 394 may provide a biasing mechanism. The third tab 394 has a natural or inherent tendency to return to the deployed state. This may provide or supplement a resilient bias for the locking tab 380 to return to the deployed state. The third tab 394 urges the locking tab 380 toward an end stop defined by the recessed edges of the first and second receiver tabs 396, 392. The end stop blocks or prevents the locking tab 380 from returning to the deployed state.

[0297] 7-12 show embodiments of packaging devices 400, 500, 600 which form part of a packaging machine for assembling the blanks 10, 110, 310 of FIGS.

[0298] Figures 7-10 show views of a packaging apparatus 400 adapted to assemble the blank 110 of Figure 3. Figure 11 shows a view of a packaging apparatus 500 adapted to assemble the blank 310 of Figure 5. Figure 12 shows a view of a packaging apparatus 600 adapted to assemble the blank 10 of Figure 1.

[0299] Returning to FIG. 7, there is shown a packaging apparatus 400 including a grouping and measuring device and an applicator 420 for applying blanks 110 to the measured group of items (although not shown in FIG. 7, FIG. 8 shows item B and FIG. 9 shows the position of item B in phantom).

[0300] The measuring device includes a first plurality of article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 for engaging and measuring a first row of articles B and driving them through the packaging apparatus 400. The measuring device includes a second plurality of article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 for engaging and measuring a second row of articles B and driving them through the packaging apparatus 400. The second plurality of article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 are positioned opposite the first plurality of article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434.

[0301] Each article engagement tool 432A, 432B, 434 is coupled to or includes a drive mechanism for propelling each of the first and second plurality of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 around the respective track or loop.

[0302] Each article engagement tool 432A, 432B, 434 is coupled to or attached to a respective track or loop (not shown) having a working range and a return range. The article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 may include magnets (not shown) for holding the article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 to the track. The track includes a drive mechanism for driving the article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 on the track. The drive mechanism may take the form of a linear motor. A stator including a coil is attached to the track and acts on the magnets to generate a motive force, driving the article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 on the track. Each of the article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 may be controlled independently or individually. In this manner, the pitch between the article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 can be varied, and the article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 can be accelerated or decelerated individually.

[0303] Each item engaging tool 432A, 432B, 434 in the first plurality of item engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 is driven synchronously with each item engaging tool 432A, 432B, 434 in the second plurality of item engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434, at least across the working range of the packaging apparatus 400, 500, 600.

[0304] The packaging apparatus 400 merges a first stream of items B with a second stream of items B, with a first plurality of item engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 engaging items from the first stream and a second plurality of item engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 engaging items from the second stream.

[0305] Each article engagement tool 432A, 432B, 434 includes a carriage 448 with at least one wheel or follower 446, and in some embodiments, each carriage 448 may be provided with two, three, four, or more wheels or followers 446 that engage with the track.

[0306] Each carriage 448 includes a head 442 that is removably attached by a locking mechanism 444. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 444 may take the form of a bayonet-style engagement or attachment. In this manner, the head 442 may be easily separated from the carriage 448 and replaced, swapped, or replaced. This allows the head 442 to be changed for another head to accommodate a different carton blank 10, 110, 310, or article B, or to replace a damaged or broken head.

[0307] Each head 442 includes a gripper or scoop 443 that provides at least one engagement surface for engaging an item B. The gripper 443 includes a pair of fingers or rims that define a recess or channel positioned to receive a portion of the item B.

[0308] Each head 442 may include a reference pin or post 440 extending upward therefrom. The reference pin 440 is attached to the head 442 at a first proximal end and extends upward to a distal free end. The distal free end is positioned at a height higher than the top end of the article B. In this manner, the reference pin 440 is configured to engage with the blank 110 when placed on the top end of an article B within a group of articles B. The heads 442 forming the leading and trailing article engagement tools 432A, 432B may include a first reference pin or post 440. The heads 442 forming the intermediate article engagement tools 434 may include an optional second reference pin or post 440'. The second reference pin or post 440' may be offset relative to the first reference pin 440 provided by the leading and trailing article engagement tools 432A, 432B, as best shown in FIG. 8.

[0309] The reference pin 440 is configured to be positioned between the leading end portion of the head 442 and the trailing end portion of the head 442. The reference pin 440 is positioned upstream of the downstream end, edge, or wall of the article B that will be engaged by the head 442 to which it is attached, and the reference pin 440 is positioned downstream of the upstream end, edge, or wall of the article B that will be engaged by the head 442.

[0310] The datum pin 440 may be located within the footprint of the carriage 448 and / or head 442. In this manner, two adjacent carriages 448 or heads 442 may be brought into close proximity without interference from the datum pin 440 or its attachment, thereby allowing two or more article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 to bring two or more articles B into close proximity or to engage two or more articles B that are placed in close proximity.

[0311] To form a metrology group for article B, a pair of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 groups together a pair of articles B, one each from the first or second row stream of articles B.

[0312] More than one set of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 can be used to form a group of articles B. In the illustrated embodiment, four sets of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 form eight groups of articles B in a 2x4 matrix or array.

[0313] To form a group, the leading pair of article engagement tools 432B may be delayed to allow the intermediate pair of article engagement tools 434 and the trailing pair of article engagement tools 432A to catch up with the pair of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 located downstream thereof. As each upstream pair of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 captures the adjacent downstream pair of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434, their speed may also slow down to match the speed of the downstream pair. It will be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the speed of the upstream pair of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 may be increased or accelerated to capture the adjacent downstream pair of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434.

[0314] Once the article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 have formed a group of articles B, the blank 110 is lowered onto the top ends of the articles B that form the group.

[0315] The blank 110 is lowered or fed from above by an overhead conveyor (not shown) and moved downstream together with the article B, with the leading edge alignment edge provided by the pair of first alignment devices W1 contacting the respective reference pins 440 of the leading pair of article engagement tools 432B.

[0316] When the pair of trailing article engagement tools 432A completes forming the group of articles B, the reference pins 440 of each of the pair of trailing article engagement tools 432A contact the trailing alignment edges provided by the second pair of alignment devices W2. The blank 110 is trapped between the lead article engagement tool 432B and the reference pins 440 of the trailing article engagement tool 432A. The reference pins 440 confirm that the blank is properly aligned with the group of articles B, and this alignment is maintained as the blank 110 and articles B move downstream through the packaging machine.

[0317] It will be understood that in some embodiments, only one of the pair of trailing item engagement tools 432A and one of the pair of leading item engagement tools 432B have a reference pin 440, and that the reference pin 440 is positioned diagonally between the pair of trailing item engagement tools 432A and the pair of leading item engagement tools 432B.

[0318] Reference pins 440' (if provided) of the intermediate article engagement tool 434 contact or engage side edges S1, S2 of the blank 110 to further support alignment of the blank 110 relative to the group of articles B.

[0319] The datum pins 440, 440′ each engage a panel 118, 120 that is hinged to the main panel or engagement panel 112. The panels 118, 120 are folded around the side or edge of the group of articles, and in doing so, the panels 118, 120, particularly the alignment edges, disengage from the datum pins 440, 440′.

[0320] The packaging device 400 includes an applicator 420 for folding the panels 118 , 120 against the main or mating panel 112 .

[0321] Applicator 420 comprises a plate 421, the lower or engagement surface of which comprises a plurality of recesses or orifices each adapted to receive the upper portion of an item B. The illustrated embodiment comprises eight orifices arranged in a 2x4 matrix or array.

[0322] The plate 421 includes one or more folding dies or brakes 452A, 452B depending from the underside or engagement surface of the plate 421. The folding dies or brakes 452A, 452B fold the side panels 118, 120 relative to the main or engagement panel 112.

[0323] Plate 421 includes one or more retaining or stabilizing pins or lugs 450 depending from the underside or engagement surface of plate 421. The illustrated embodiment includes three stabilizing pins 450, as best seen in FIG.

[0324] The stabilizing pins 450 are longer than the folding dies 452A, 452B and extend below the folding dies. The stabilizing pins 450 are the portion of the applicator 420 that first engages the blank 110. The stabilizing pins 450, also referred to herein as abutment pegs, are received by the respective stabilizing devices M. The stabilizing pins 450 are inserted into openings in the stabilizing devices M, and the tabs 94, if present, are folded out of the plane of the main panel 112 when the stabilizing pins 450 are received. The stabilizing pins 450 prevent or inhibit movement of the blank 110 relative to the applicator 420, holding the blank 110 in proper alignment with the article B as the side panels 18, 120 are folded around the sides of the article group.

[0325] The applicator 420 is lowered toward item B, pressing the blank 110 against the top edge of item B. The applicator 420 contacts the blank 110, the stabilizing pin 450 is received by the stabilizing device M, the side panels 118, 120 fold downward, and the applicator 420 is further lowered, pressing the blank 110 downward until item B is received in each of the item retaining structures RT1, RT2. The tabs 140, 142, 144, 154 fold out of the plane of the engagement panel 112 and engage under flanges or other suitable protrusions on item B.

[0326] FIG. 11 shows a diagram of a packaging apparatus 500 adapted to assemble the blank 310 of FIG. 5. The packaging apparatus 500 includes a head 542 adapted to receive the blank 310. In particular, the head 542 includes a reference pin 540 that is positioned farther from an engagement surface 543 of the head 542 than the reference pin 540 of the head 442 of the embodiment of FIGS. 7-10. In the illustrated embodiment, a locking mechanism 544 is positioned between the engagement surface 543 of the head 542 and the reference pin 540. In the embodiment of FIGS. 7-10, the reference pin 440 is positioned between the locking mechanism 444 and the engagement surface 443 of the head 442.

[0327] 11 and head 442 of FIGS. 7-10 are interchangeable, that is, the head can be selected depending on the blanks to be packed. Since carriage 448 and carriage 548 are substantially the same, either head 542 or head 442 can be attached.

[0328] Referring to FIG. 12, there is shown a diagram of a packaging apparatus 600 suitable for assembling the blank 10 of FIG.

[0329] The applicator 620 includes a pair of first stabilizing pegs or pins 650 adapted to be received in openings in the stabilizing device M.

[0330] The applicator 620 includes an optional second stabilizing peg or pin 654 adapted to be received in a handle opening of the handle structure H. The second stabilizing peg 654 is shaped and dimensioned to fit the handle opening and may be wider or have a larger diameter than the first stabilizing peg 650.

[0331] In some embodiments, the pair of first stabilizing pegs or pins 650 may be omitted, and only the second stabilizing peg or pin 654 may be provided. The second stabilizing peg or pin 654 may be shaped to prevent or inhibit rotation of the blank relative to the applicator 620 when the second stabilizing peg or pin 654 is received in the stabilizing device provided by the blank 10.

[0332] The applicator 620 includes one or more first folding dies or brakes depending from the lower or engaging surface of the plate, which fold the side panels 18 , 20 relative to the main or engaging panel 12 .

[0333] The applicator 620 includes one or more second folding dies or brakes 652C, 652C depending from the lower or engaging surface of the plate. The folding dies or brakes fold the end panels 14, 16 relative to the main or engaging panel 12.

[0334] The applicator 620 is mounted on an overhead wheel configured to maintain the orientation of the applicator 620 relative to a conveyor (not shown). The applicator 620 is maintained approximately parallel to the conveyor during rotation of the overhead wheel, with the engagement surface of the plate facing toward the article B and / or the conveyor.

[0335] 13-19, alternative embodiments of the packaging systems, article carriers and blanks, devices and applicators of the present disclosure are shown. Because the alternative embodiments share many commonalities with the embodiments of Figures 1-12, only the differences from the embodiments shown in Figures 1-12 will be described in detail.

[0336] Referring to FIG. 13 , there is shown a plan view of a pair of connected blanks 401, each of which may form a carton or carrier 490 (shown in FIG. 17 ) for containing and carrying a primary product group (hereinafter referred to as Item B), such as, but not limited to, bottles or cans.

[0337] In the illustrated embodiment, the blanks 410A, 410B are configured to form a carton or carrier 490 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary items B. In the embodiment shown in Figure 13, each blank 410A, 410B is configured to package the items in a 2x2 matrix or array arrangement, with two items B arranged in two rows, and the items B are beverage cans.

[0338] Alternatively, blanks 410A, 410B may be configured to form carriers for packaging other types, numbers, sizes of items, and / or for packaging items in different arrangements or configurations.

[0339] 13, there is shown a pair of connected blanks 401 comprising a first blank 410A and a second blank 410B. The second blank 410B is severably or frangibly connected to the first blank 410A by a frangible connection 413. Each of the blanks 410A, 410B includes a main or engaging panel 412 for forming the top wall or engaging panel of the carrier 490.

[0340] The frangible connection 413 takes the form of a plurality of spaced cut lines defining connecting notches or bridge portions N1, N2, N3, and N4 therebetween. The bridge portions N1, N2, N3, and N4 join the first blank 410A to the second blank 410B. In the illustrated embodiment, the frangible connection 413 includes four connecting notches or bridge portions N1, N2, N3, and N4 arranged in pairs N1 / N2 and N3 / N4. A first pair of connecting nicks N1 / N2 is disposed between the first item retention structure RT of the first blank 410A and the second item retention structure RT of the second blank 410B. The second item retention structures RT are disposed adjacent to the first item retention structure RT, each lying on an imaginary longitudinal line or axis xx that passes through the center of each of the first and second item retention structures RT. The first pair of connecting nicks N1 / N2 are positioned on opposite sides of a longitudinal line xx, which defines or passes through the area of ​​closest proximity between the item B received in the first blank 410A and the item B received in the second blank 410B. The frangible connection 413 includes a second pair of connecting nicks N3 / N4 positioned between the third item retaining structure RT of the first blank 410A and the fourth item retaining structure RT of the second blank 410B. The second pair of connecting nicks N3 / N4 are positioned on opposite sides of an imaginary line (not shown) extending in the longitudinal direction of the pair of connecting blanks 401 and passing through the centers of the third and fourth item retaining structures RT.

[0341] The main panels 412 include at least one item retention structure RT. In the illustrated embodiment, each main panel 412 includes a plurality of item retention structures RT, specifically four item retention structures RT arranged in a 2x2 matrix or array. Each main panel 412 includes two rows of item retention structures RT, each row including two item retention structures RT. Each item retention structure RT includes an aperture A1.

[0342] Because each item holding structure RT is substantially similar in structure, they will be described in detail with reference to the first item holding structure RT positioned adjacent the first end of the second blank 410B as shown in FIG. 13.

[0343] The item retaining structure RT includes an item receiving opening defined in part by an aperture A1.

[0344] The article retaining structure RT includes a plurality of engagement teeth 440 arranged around the periphery of the aperture A1.

[0345] The plurality of tines 440 are hingedly connected to the main panel 412 by fold lines. The fold lines may be defined by a plurality of cut lines 443, 445. The plurality of cut lines 443, 445 may define or approximate a circle.

[0346] Each of the teeth 440 has an engagement edge E1 opposite the hinge edge. The engagement edge E1 is defined by a straight portion of the cut line that defines the aperture A1. Each engagement edge E1 defines a portion of a polygon. The illustrated embodiment includes 16 teeth 440. Each tooth 440 includes a pair of side edges, which are defined by cut lines 441 that extend radially outward from each vertex of the polygon. That is, the cut lines extend radially from each vertex between a pair of adjacent straight portions of the cut line that defines the aperture A1. The cut lines 441 are arranged diverging from each other and define an angle therebetween, which is approximately 22.5°.

[0347] The article retaining structure RT may include a plurality of first circumferential cut lines 443. Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 443 is aligned with one of the radial cut lines 441 such that one of the radial cut lines 441, or a notional extension thereof, bisects each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 443.

[0348] Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 443 is spaced apart from and bisects one of the radial cut lines 441 so as to define a connecting nick or bridge portion between a pair of adjacently positioned teeth 440.

[0349] Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 443 may be straight.

[0350] The item retaining structure RT may include a plurality of second circumferential cut lines 445. Each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 445 is disposed between a pair of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 443 and spaced apart so as to define a pair of connecting nicks or bridge portions between each tooth 440 and the main panel 412. The pair of connecting nicks or bridge portions provides a hinged or foldable connection between each tooth 440 and the main panel 412.

[0351] Each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 445 may be straight. In alternative embodiments, each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 443 may be arcuate or curved. In alternative embodiments, each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 445 may be arcuate or curved.

[0352] In the illustrated embodiment, the radius of curvature of each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 445 is equal to the radius of curvature of each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 443, but may be different in other embodiments.

[0353] The blanks 410A, 410B include handle structures H. The handle structures H include handle or finger openings located on a longitudinal axis that bisects the main panel 412. The handle openings are located between groups of four item retaining structures RT. The handle openings are located in the center or middle of the main panel 412.

[0354] Each handle opening is defined by a plurality of tabs 460, 462. The handle opening includes four tabs 460, 462. Each tab 460, 462 is hingedly connected to the main panel 412 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. Arc-shaped or curved cut lines may be provided between each fold line to define the corners or vertices of the handle opening. The handle opening is substantially lozenge-shaped or diamond-shaped, although other shapes, such as, but not limited to, a square, may be employed in other embodiments. The handle opening includes a pair of major tabs 460 and a pair of minor tabs 462.

[0355] The pair of major tabs 460 are separated from each other by a first cut or severable line. The pair of minor tabs 462 are separated from each other by a first cut or severable line. The pair of major tabs 460 are separated from the pair of minor tabs 462 by a second cut or severable line.

[0356] The first cut line is collinear with an imaginary line passing longitudinally through the centre of the group of four article retaining structures RT.

[0357] The first cut line is linear and extends between a first pair of opposing vertices of the handle opening. The second cut line is non-linear and extends between a second pair of opposing vertices of the handle opening. The second cut line intersects the first cut line, and the second cut line has a "V" or "U" shaped central portion, with the vertex of the "V" or "U" shape intersecting the first cut line.

[0358] One of the pair of main tabs 460 is hinged to the main panel 412 by a first fold line. The other of the pair of main tabs 460 is hinged to the main panel 412 by a second fold line. The first fold line is divergent from the second fold line.

[0359] One of the pair of minor tabs 462 is hinged to the main panel 412 by a third fold line. The other of the pair of minor tabs 462 is hinged to the main panel 412 by a fourth fold line. The third fold line is arranged to diverge from the fourth fold line.

[0360] The first fold line is divergently disposed relative to the third fold line, and the second fold line is divergently disposed relative to the fourth fold line.

[0361] The handle openings may form a stabilizing device when applying the blanks 410A, 410B to the group of articles B. The stabilizing device is configured to receive abutment pegs or dogs (described in more detail below).

[0362] The openings in the stabilization device may be non-circular and may be substantially square or diamond shaped.

[0363] Pegs or dogs may be provided to engage the blanks 410A, 410B through the handle openings and prevent or inhibit linear or rotational movement of the blanks 410A, 410B relative to the dogs. The dogs may be attached to or integral with an applicator device (described in more detail below) for applying the blanks 410A, 410B to the group of articles B.

[0364] The opening of the stabilization device or handle opening may include at least one flat or straight portion for engaging a complementary flat or straight portion of the dog. In other embodiments, the opening of the stabilization device or handle may include at least one generally "V" or "U" shaped portion for engaging a complementary portion of the dog.

[0365] Blanks 410A, 410B are simultaneously applied to a pair of groups of articles, with the main panel 412 of each blank 410A, 410B being applied to one of the groups of articles B. The connected pair of blanks 401 is lowered against and rests on top of articles B, as shown in FIG.

[0366] An applicator device AP is provided for engaging the blanks 410A, 410B with the articles B. The applicator device AP includes a plate or body 450 from which a plurality of guides G extend. The guides G depend downwardly from the plate 450 to maintain the articles B in a desired configuration or arrangement to be received by the blanks 410A, 410B. The guides may secure or hold the pair of connected blanks 401 in alignment with the group of articles B. In the illustrated embodiment, the guides G are in the form of a plurality of fingers or elongated members, although in other embodiments the guides may take the form of vertical walls that depend downwardly from the plate 450 and surround at least the tops of the pair of articles.

[0367] The applicator device AP includes a pair of posts P1, P2 that form retaining or stabilizing pins or lugs depending from the underside or engagement surface of the plate 450. The illustrated embodiment includes two stabilizing pins, as best shown in FIG. 14. For illustrative purposes, portions of the applicator device AP are cut away, as indicated by the hatching, in FIGS. 14-17. When the applicator device AP is lowered over the pair of connected blanks 401 and the article B, the first post P1 engages with the stabilizing device provided by the handle opening in the first blank 410A. The second post P2 engages with the stabilizing device provided by the handle opening in the second blank 410B, as best shown in FIG. 15. Tabs 460, 462 of the handle structure H fold out of the plane of the main panel 412 when the stabilizing pins are received.

[0368] The cutting device BL depends from the underside of the plate 450 and may take the form of a blade mounted substantially perpendicular to the underside of the plate 450. The cutting device BL extends across the plate 450.

[0369] As the applicator device AP is further lowered relative to the pair of connected blanks 401 and article B, the posts P1, P2 are further inserted through the handle openings and the cutting device BL is aligned with and moves downward relative to the frangible connection 413. In doing so, the cutting device BL cuts or separates the connecting nicks or bridge portions N1, N2, N3, N4, thereby separating the first blank 410A and the second blank 410B from one another.

[0370] As the applicator device AP continues to be lowered against the pair of blanks 410A, 410B and article B, the lower or engagement surface of plate 450 contacts the blanks 410A, 410B, as shown in FIG.

[0371] The lower or engagement surface of plate 450 includes a plurality of recesses or orifices OR, each adapted to receive an upper portion of item B. The illustrated embodiment includes eight orifices OR arranged in a 2x4 matrix or array. The orifices OR may be at least partially blind, i.e., include end stops ES that prevent item B from passing through plate 450.

[0372] The stabilizing pin is fully inserted into the stabilizing device to prevent or inhibit movement of the pair of blanks 410A, 410B relative to the applicator AP and to hold each blank 410A, 410B in proper alignment with the item B.

[0373] The applicator AP is further lowered relative to the article B to press the blanks 410A, 410B against the top ends of the article B. The applicator AP presses the blanks 410A, 410B downward so that the article B is received in the respective article retaining structure RT. The tabs 440 fold out of the plane of the engagement panel 412 and engage under a flange or other suitable protrusion on the article B to form the package, as best shown in FIG.

[0374] The applicator AP is raised relative to the package and the assembled package is transported to a further processing station or point of sale.

[0375] Figure 18 shows several alternative blade configurations BL1, BL2, BL3, BL4, BL5. The first blade BL1 includes a single breaking edge CE that is parallel to the attachment edge ME. In use, the entire breaking edge CE simultaneously engages the breakable connection.

[0376] The second blade BL2 has a pair of breaking edges CE1, CE2 that are divergently arranged relative to each other to form a point or apex, and each of the pair of breaking edges CE1, CE2 is non-parallel, i.e., divergently arranged relative to the attachment edge ME.

[0377] FIG. 18 shows a third blade BL3 that is substantially similar to the second blade BL2, except that the pair of breaking edges CE1, CE2 are configured to define a smaller included angle therebetween.

[0378] 18 shows a fourth blade BL4 that is substantially similar to the second and third blades BL2 and BL3, except that the pair of breaking edges CE1, CE2 is configured to define a smaller included angle therebetween. To accomplish this without significantly increasing the height of the fourth blade BL4, each of the pair of breaking edges CE1, CE2 includes a marginal portion that is disposed substantially parallel to the attachment edge ME.

[0379] FIG. 18 shows a fifth blade BL5 having recessed, wavy, or serrated breaking edges. The fifth blade BL5 has four dispersed breaking edges CE1, CE2, CE3, and CE4. The first breaking edge CE1 and the second breaking edge CE2 are dispersed from one another to form a point or apex approximately in the center or mid-region of the fifth blade BL5. The edges of the fifth blade BL5 are provided with third and fourth breaking edges CE3 and CE4. The third breaking edge CE3 is diverged from the first breaking edge CE1, defining a recess R therebetween. The fourth breaking edge CE4 is diverged from the second breaking edge CE2, defining a recess R therebetween.

[0380] The third breaking edge CE3 may be arranged to be parallel to the second breaking edge CE2, and the fourth breaking edge CE4 may be arranged to be parallel to the first breaking edge CE1.

[0381] The fifth blade BL5 may be considered to comprise a plurality of breaking edges or blades CE1, CE2, CE3, CE4 attached to a common base or mounting body.

[0382] The fifth blade BL5 is advantageous when separating a pair of blanks 410A, 410B where a first group of articles B engaged by a first blank 410A is in contact or proximity with a second group of articles B engaged by a second blank 410B. The recess R avoids areas of contact or proximity between the pair of cylindrical articles B. In this way, the fifth blade BL5 avoids contact or collision with the articles B.

[0383] 19, there is shown a packaging apparatus configured to automatically apply a pair of connected blanks 401 to a group of articles B. The packaging apparatus includes a plurality of tool heads 702 attached to an overhead wheel arrangement 754.

[0384] The overhead wheel arrangement 754 is configured to maintain the orientation of the applicator 720 relative to the conveyor 753. The applicator 720 is shown in cross section, as indicated by the hatching to show that posts P1, P2 are attached. The applicator 720 is maintained approximately parallel to the conveyor 753 during rotation of the overhead wheel, with the engagement surface of the plate 450 facing the article B and / or the conveyor.

[0385] Applicator 720 is movably mounted to tool head 702 and is resiliently biased toward conveyor 753 by spring mounts 758 depending from mounting plate 756 .

[0386] Applicator 720 differs from that shown in Figures 13-17 in that guide G is omitted and instead the pair of connected blanks 401 is aligned relative to article B by reference posts 740 attached to article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734.

[0387] The packaging machine includes a grouping and measuring device and an overhead applicator for applying pairs of connected blanks 410 to the measured groups B of articles.

[0388] The gauging apparatus includes a first plurality of article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 for engaging and gauging a first row of articles B and driving them through the packaging apparatus. The gauging apparatus includes a second plurality of article engaging tools (not shown in FIG. 19) configured in a manner similar to that shown in the embodiment of FIGS. 7-11 for engaging, gauging and driving a second row of articles B through the packaging apparatus. The second plurality of article engaging tools are positioned opposite the first plurality of article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734.

[0389] Each article engagement tool 732A, 732B, 734 is coupled to or includes a drive mechanism for propelling each of the first and second plurality of article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 around its respective track or loop.

[0390] Each article engagement tool 732A, 732B, 734 is coupled to or attached to a respective track or loop (not shown) having a working range and a return range. The article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 may include magnets (not shown) for holding the article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 to the track. The track includes a drive mechanism for driving the article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 on the track. The drive mechanism may take the form of a linear motor. A stator including a coil is attached to the track and acts on the magnets to generate a motive force, driving the article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 on the track. Each article engagement tool 732A, 732B, 734 may be independently or individually controlled, such that the pitch between the article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 can be varied and the article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 can be individually accelerated or decelerated.

[0391] Each article engaging tool 732A, 732B, 734 in the first plurality of article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 is driven synchronously with each article engaging tool in the second plurality of article engaging tools, at least through the working range of the packaging apparatus.

[0392] The packaging device merges a first stream of items B with a second stream of items B, with a first plurality of item engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 engaging items from the first stream and a second plurality of item engagement tools engaging items from the second stream.

[0393] Each article engagement tool 732A, 732B, 734 includes a carriage having at least one wheel or follower 746, and in some embodiments, each carriage may be provided with two, three, four, or more wheels or followers 746 that engage with the track.

[0394] Each carriage includes a head removably attached by a locking mechanism. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism may take the form of a bayonet-style engagement or attachment. In this manner, the head can be easily removed from the carriage and replaced, swapped, or replaced. This allows a head to be replaced with another head to accommodate a different carton blank or article B, or to replace a damaged or broken head.

[0395] Each head includes a gripper or scoop that provides at least one engagement surface for engaging item B. The gripper includes a pair of fingers or rims that define a recess or channel configured to receive a portion of item B.

[0396] Each head may include a reference pin or post 740 extending upward therefrom. The reference pin 740 is attached to the head at a first proximal end and extends upward to a distal free end. The distal free end is positioned at a height higher than the top end of the article B. In this manner, the reference pin 740 is configured to engage with a pair of connected blanks 401 when placed at the top end of an article B within the article B group. The heads forming the leading article engagement tool 732A and the trailing article engagement tool 732B may include a first reference pin or post 740. The heads forming the intermediate article engagement tool 734 may include an optional second reference pin or post. The second reference pin or post may be offset in a direction perpendicular to the article flow direction F relative to the first reference pin 740 provided by the leading article engagement tool 732A and the trailing article engagement tool 732B.

[0397] The datum pin 740 is positioned so as to be located between the leading end of the head and the trailing end of the head, the datum pin 740 being located upstream of the downstream end, edge, or wall of the article B that will be engaged by the attached head, and the datum pin 740 being located downstream of the upstream end, edge, or wall of the article B that will be engaged by said head.

[0398] The datum pin 740 may be located within the footprint of the carriage and / or head. In this manner, two adjacent carriages or heads can be brought into close proximity without interference from the datum pin 740 or its attachment. This allows two or more article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 to bring two or more articles B into close proximity or to engage two or more articles B that are placed in close proximity.

[0399] To form a metrology group for article B, a pair of article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 groups together a pair of articles B, one from each of the first or second rows of articles B.

[0400] Two or more pairs of article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 can be used to form at least two groups of articles B, and in the illustrated embodiment, four pairs of article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 form two groups of four articles B each in a 2x2 matrix or array.

[0401] To form a group, the leading pair of article engagement tools 732B may be delayed to allow the intermediate pair of article engagement tools 734 and the trailing pair of article engagement tools 732A to catch up with the pair of article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 located downstream thereof. In some embodiments, at least a first pair of intermediate article engagement tools 734 catches up with the leading pair of article engagement tools 732B, at least a second pair of intermediate article engagement tools 734 follows a predetermined distance behind at least the first pair of intermediate article engagement tools 734, and the trailing pair of article engagement tools 732A catches up with at least a second pair of intermediate article engagement tools 734. As each upstream pair of article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 catches up with the adjacent downstream pair of article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734, their speeds may also slow to match the speed of the downstream pair. It will be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the speed of the upstream pair of article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 can be increased or accelerated to capture the adjacent downstream pair of article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734.

[0402] Once the article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 have formed the article B group, the connected blank 401 is lowered onto the top ends of the articles B that form the group.

[0403] The overhead wheel configuration causes applicator 720 to contact connected blank 401 in substantially the same manner as applicator AP of FIGS. 14-17 applies blanks 410A, 410B to article B.

[0404] 20-24, a packaging apparatus 800 is shown configured to automate the separation of a pair of connected article carriers 491, as best seen in FIG. 24. A pair of connected blanks 401, as shown in FIG. 13 and described above, are applied to a group of multiple articles B from the connected article carriers 491 at an earlier station (not shown) of the packaging machine, similar in configuration to the apparatus of FIG. 12, except that the second stabilizing peg or pin 654 is omitted, and the folding die or brake may be omitted or replaced with an alignment guide. The packaging apparatus 800 includes at least one tool head 802 attached to an overhead conveyor device 854 disposed above an article conveyor (not shown). The tool head 802 is configured to move synchronously with the article conveyor across the working range of the overhead conveyor device 854. The connected article carriers 491 are transported downstream on the article conveyor, as indicated by arrow F. The illustrated embodiment includes multiple tool heads 802 attached to a track 803 and driven thereabout by a drive mechanism. In some embodiments, the drive mechanism may take the form of a chain or belt configured as an endless loop. In other embodiments, each tool head 802 is independently driven around the track 803, each tool head 802 includes a drive motor, or the drive mechanism may take the form of a linear motor similar to those described above with respect to the article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 of FIG. 7.

[0405] Each tool head 802 includes a chassis or carriage that couples the separator SP to the track 803. The separator SP includes a plate or frame 850 from which a pair of guides G depend. The pair of guides G are spaced apart and positioned opposite each other. The guides G engage opposite sides of the connected article carrier 491. The guides G prevent or inhibit movement of the connected article carrier 491 in a direction transverse to the flow direction F. In Figures 22-24, portions of the separator SP have been cut away or removed for illustrative purposes, and only one guide G is shown.

[0406] The separator SP includes at least one stabilizing peg P1, P2 depending from the plate 850. The illustrated embodiment includes a pair of stabilizing pegs P1, P2 depending from the plate 850. Each of the pair of stabilizing pegs P1, P2 engages a respective one of the connected article carriers 491.

[0407] Each stabilizing peg P1, P2 is received in a handle or finger opening in the main panel 412 of the respective connected article carrier 491. The stabilizing pegs P1, P2 prevent, block, or inhibit movement of the connected article carriers 491 while the separating device SP separates the connected article carriers 491 into individual, separated article carriers 491. Each stabilizing peg P1, P2 includes a fastener 811 that attaches the stabilizing peg P1, P2 to the plate 850. The fastener 811 is received in a mounting orifice MA1, MA2 on the underside or inside surface of the plate 850. The mounting orifices MA1, MA2 and the fastener 811 may be shaped to be coded or keyed to a particular mounting position or orientation. That is, the first post P1 is shaped to be attached to the first mounting orifice MA1, and the second post P1 is shaped to be attached to the second mounting orifice MA2, or each post P1, P2 is attached in a predetermined orientation relative to the plate 850.

[0408] The stabilizing pegs P1, P2 may be releasably or removably attached to the applicator AP720. Apertures RA1, RA2 are provided on the top or outer surface of the plate 850, and the apertures RA1, RA2 are vertically aligned with the mounting orifices MA1, MA2, respectively. The apertures RA1, RA2 are provided to secure the stabilizing pegs P1, P2 to the plate 850, allowing fasteners such as screws or bolts to pass through the plate 850 and enter the stabilizing pegs P1, P2. In some embodiments, the apertures RA1, RA2 are provided to facilitate removal or replacement of the stabilizing pegs P1, P2, allowing a tool to be inserted through the plate 850 to access the fasteners 811 to press or push the fasteners 811 of the stabilizing pegs P1, P2 out of the mounting orifices MA1, MA2, which may be advantageous if the fasteners 811 are keyed and cannot rotate within the mounting orifices MA1, MA2.

[0409] The separating device SP includes at least one cutting or separating device BL. The at least one cutting or separating device BL may include one or more blades BL1, BL2, BL3, and BL4 arranged to avoid collision with the articles being packaged. The illustrated embodiment includes a pair of cutting or separating devices BL, each including a pair of blades BL1 / BL2 and BL3 / BL4, as best shown in FIG. 21 . A recess BLR separates the first blade BL1, BL3 from the second blade BL2, BL4 in each blade pair BL1 / BL2 and BL3 / BL4. The recess is configured and arranged to prevent the separating device BL from colliding with the articles B in the article carrier 490. Each blade BL1, BL2, BL3, and BL4 is attached to or integral with a bracket attached to a plate 850. The bracket includes a base or mounting foot 808 and a leg 807 extending therefrom, which may be arranged to be substantially perpendicular to the base 80 and the plate 850. The base 808 may be mounted within a recess or channel in the underside of the plate 850. In other embodiments, the blades BL1, BL2, BL3, BL4 and the support bracket may be integral with the plate 850.

[0410] 24 shows the separating device SP lowering relative to the connected article carriers 491, contacting or engaging the connected article carriers 491, the stabilizing pegs P1, P2 being received in the handle openings, and the separating device BL severing the connection 413 between the article carriers 490. The separating device SP is then raised relative to the article carriers 490 (not shown), and the tool head 802 returns to the start of the working range of the device 800 to separate the subsequent group of connected article carriers 491.

[0411] 25 and 26, a packaging apparatus 1400 for use in the packaging system of the present disclosure is shown. In the illustrated embodiments, like numerals with the prefix "1000" are used to indicate like parts whenever possible. Because the alternative embodiment has much in common with the embodiment of FIGS. 7-12, only the differences from the embodiment shown in FIGS. 7-12 will be described in more detail.

[0412] Figures 25 and 26 show an embodiment of a packaging apparatus 1400 forming part of a packaging machine for assembling the blank 401 of Figure 13 around a group of articles B. The packaging apparatus 1400 may be adapted to package other blanks, such as, but not limited to, the blanks 10, 110, 310 shown in Figures 1-6.

[0413] The packaging machine 1400 includes a grouping and measuring device and an applicator 420 (see FIG. 26) for applying blanks 401 to measured groups of articles (not shown in FIGS. 25 and 26).

[0414] The sizing device includes a first plurality of article engaging tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B for engaging and sizing a first row of articles and driving them through the packaging apparatus 1400. The sizing device includes a second plurality of article engaging tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B for engaging and sizing a second row of articles and driving them through the packaging apparatus 1400. The second plurality of article engaging tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B are positioned opposite the first plurality of article engaging tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B.

[0415] Each article engagement tool 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B is coupled to or includes a drive mechanism for propelling each of the first and second plurality of article engagement tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B around its respective track or loop.

[0416] Each article engagement tool 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B is coupled or attached to a respective track or loop (not shown) having a working range and a return range. Each article engagement tool 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B may be controlled independently or individually. In this manner, the pitch between the article engagement tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B may be changed, and the article engagement tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B may be accelerated or decelerated individually.

[0417] Each item engaging tool 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B in the first plurality of item engaging tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B is driven synchronously with each item engaging tool 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B in the second plurality of item engaging tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B, at least through the working range of the packaging apparatus 1400.

[0418] Each article-engaging tool 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B is attached to or includes a carriage (not shown in Figures 25 and 26, but which is substantially similar to carriage 448 of Figures 7-12).

[0419] Each article engagement tool 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B includes a head 1442 that is removably attached to a carriage by a locking mechanism 1444, some of which are shown in Figures 25 and 26. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 1444 may take the form of a bayonet-style fitting or attachment. In this manner, the head 1442 may be easily separated from the carriage and replaced, swapped, or replaced. This allows the head 1442 to be replaced with another head 1442 or a replacement head 1442.

[0420] Each head 1442 includes a gripper or scoop 1443 that provides at least one engagement surface for engaging an article. The gripper 1443 includes a pair of fingers or ribs that define a recess or channel positioned to receive a portion of the article.

[0421] Each head 1442 may include at least one pin or post 1440 extending upward therefrom. The pin 1440 is attached to the head 442 at a first proximal end and extends upward to a distal free end. The distal free end is positioned at a height higher than the top of the article. As such, the pin 1440 is configured to engage with the blank 401 when placed on the top of an article in the group of articles. The pin 1440 includes heads H1, H2, and H3. The heads H1, H2, and H3 may be integral with the pin 1440 or may be attached to the pin 1440 by a suitable attachment mechanism, such as, but not limited to, a screw thread device.

[0422] The leading article engagement tool 1432A and the trailing article engagement tool 1432B may include a first pin 1440 having a first reference head H1 and a second pin 1440 having a second reference head H2. The first reference head H1 has a tapered or generally conical upper end Co, which may be truncated. The tapered shape facilitates alignment of the blank 401 with the article engagement tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B, and therefore with the article.

[0423] The first reference head H1 may include a body Mb disposed between the tapered upper end Co and the pin 1440. The body Mb may be generally cylindrical and have a larger diameter than the pin 1440.

[0424] Optionally, a sloped or tapered transition region may be provided between the body Mb and the pin 1440 to prevent or inhibit the blank 401 from getting caught or tripping on the first reference head H1. The first reference head H1 is configured to engage a side edge of the blank 401 to align the blank 401 in a direction perpendicular to the direction of movement F.

[0425] The second reference head H2 is generally similar in construction to the first reference head H1, except for the addition of an annular or disk-shaped protrusion that forms a flange 1449 between the body Mb and the pin 1440. The flange 1449 provides an upward ledge upon which one of the blanks 401 can rest.

[0426] The second reference head H2 is positioned such that the flange 1449 is located below a corner region of the blank 401. The blank 401 has rounded, filleted, or chamfered corners at both ends, and the flange 1449 is located below the extreme filleted corner to support or engage one corner of the blank 401 when it is applied to an article by the applicator 420. In this manner, the flange 1449 prevents or inhibits undesired deformation or creasing of the blank 401 when it is applied to an article.

[0427] The underside of the flange 1449 may be sloped or tapered to provide a transition area between the flange 1449 and the pin 1440, which may prevent or inhibit snagging or tripping of the blank 401 on the second reference head H2.

[0428] The second reference head H2 is configured to engage with rounded, filleted, or chamfered corners at the ends of each of the pair of blanks 410A, 410B to align the blank 401 in a direction transverse to and / or parallel to the direction of movement F relative to the article.

[0429] The head 1442 forming the intermediate article engagement tools 1434A, 1434B may include an optional third pin or post 1440. The third pin or post 1440 includes a third head H3. The leading or downstream tool 1434B of the intermediate article engagement tools 1434A, 1434B includes a pin 1440 having a third head H3 attached to the rear region of the gripper or scoop 1443. The trailing or upstream tool 1434A of the intermediate article engagement tools 1434A, 1434B includes a pin 1440 having a third head H3 attached to the front region of the gripper or scoop 1443. In this manner, the trailing intermediate article engagement tool 1434A is a mirror image of the leading intermediate article engagement tool 1434B. The third pin or post 1440 is attached to the primary or inner pin attachment of the head 1442.

[0430] The intermediate article engagement tools 1434A, 1434B may include optional pin mounting PMs (also referred to herein as outer pin mounting PMs) that are configured to receive pins 1440 having any of the heads H1, H2, or H3 attached thereto. When installed, the outer pin mounting PMs are positioned such that the pins 1440 are laterally offset relative to the first and second pins 1440 of the leading article engagement tool 1432A and the trailing article engagement tool 1432B. The outer pin mounting PMs are positioned such that they are laterally offset relative to the primary or inner pin mountings of the intermediate article engagement tools 1434A, 1434B. The optional pin mounting PMs are laterally offset relative to the direction of travel F. When the pins 1440 are attached to the optional pin mounting PM of the intermediate article engagement tools 1434A, 1434B in the first plurality of article engagement tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B and when attached to the optional pin mounting PM of the intermediate article engagement tools 1434A, 1434B in the second plurality of article engagement tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B, they are spaced apart a greater distance than when the third pin is attached to the primary or inner pin mounting of the intermediate article engagement tool 1434A, 1434B. The third pin 1440 is optionally attached to any of the heads H1, H2, H3 and may be attached to the optional pin mounting PM instead of or in addition to the primary or inner pin mounting of the head 1442. The optional pin mounting PM may be used when applying an alternate carrier blank to at least one product group.

[0431] The third head H3 includes or takes the form of a disk or platform 1447 attached to the upper end of the pin 1440 to provide a support surface for engaging a portion of one of the blanks 401.

[0432] The blank 401 includes rounded, filleted, or chamfered corners at or near the frangible joint 413 between the pair of blanks 410A, 410B, and the platform 1447 is positioned below the filleted inner corner of each blank 410A, 410B to support or engage each corner of the pair of blanks 410A, 410B when applied to an article by the applicator 420. In this manner, the platform 1447 prevents or inhibits undesired deformation or creasing of the blank 401 when applied to an article.

[0433] Pairs of article engagement tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B group together pairs of articles, one from each of the first or second rows of article B, to form a measured group of articles.

[0434] More than one set of article engagement tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B may be used to form an article group. In the illustrated embodiment, four sets of article engagement tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B form two groups of four articles each in a 2x2 matrix or array.

[0435] To form a group, the leading pair of article engagement tools 1432B may be delayed to allow the intermediate pairs of article engagement tools 1434A, 1434B and trailing pair of article engagement tools 1432A to catch up with the pair of article engagement tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B located downstream thereof. As each upstream pair of article engagement tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B catches up with the adjacent downstream pair of article engagement tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B, those tools may also be slowed to match the speed of the downstream pair. It will be appreciated that in alternative embodiments, the speed of the upstream pair of article engagement tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B can be increased or accelerated to capture the adjacent downstream pair of article engagement tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B.

[0436] Once the article engaging tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B have formed the group of articles, a pair of blanks 410A, 410B are lowered onto the top ends of the articles B that will form the group.

[0437] The blank 401 is lowered or fed from above by an overhead conveyor (not shown) and moved downstream along with the article until the leading alignment edges provided by a pair of leading corners of the leading blank 410A come into contact with the datum Mb of the second head H2 attached to each leading pin 1440 of the leading article engagement tool 1432B.

[0438] A side edge of the leading blank 410A contacts a datum Mb of a first head H1 attached to each trailing pin 1440 of the leading article engagement tool 1432B.

[0439] When the pair of trailing article engagement tools 1432A completes the formation of the group of articles, the datum Mb of the second head H2 attached to each trailing pin 1440 of the pair of trailing article engagement tools 1432A contacts a respective one of the trailing alignment edges provided by the trailing corners of the pair of trailing blanks 410B. The blank 401 is trapped between the first head H1 and second head H2 of the leading and trailing article engagement tools 1432B, 1432A. The first head H1 and second head H2 confirm that the blank is properly aligned with the group of articles and maintain this alignment as the blank 401 and articles move downstream through the packaging machine.

[0440] The packaging apparatus 1400 includes an applicator 420 for applying the main or engaging panel 412 of the blank 401 to the article.

[0441] Applicator 420 comprises a plate 421 (see FIG. 26) whose lower or engagement surface comprises a plurality of recesses or orifices each adapted to receive the top portion of an article. The illustrated embodiment includes eight orifices arranged in a 2×4 matrix or array.

[0442] Plate 421 may include one or more retaining or stabilizing pins or lugs (not shown in FIG. 26) depending from the underside or engagement surface of plate 421 .

[0443] The applicator 420 is lowered against the article to press the blank 401 against the top of the article. The applicator 420 contacts the blank 401, and if present, the stabilizing pins 450 are received by the stabilizing devices in the blanks 410A, 410B. The blank 401 is pressed downward, and the article is received in the respective article retention structures RT1, RT2. The tabs 440 fold out of the plane of the engagement panel 412 and engage under a flange or other suitable protrusion on the article.

[0444] The applicator 420 may include at least one blade or separating device for separating the pair of blanks 410A, 410B from one another during or after application to the article.

[0445] Corners, or target areas, of blanks 410A, 410B may contact support surfaces of platform 1447 and flange 1449 when blank 401 is applied to an article by the applicator. The support surfaces prevent or inhibit deformation or creasing of blanks 410A, 410B in the corner areas. The support surfaces prevent or inhibit the corners, or target areas, from sagging or moving beyond a predetermined height set or determined by the support surfaces.

[0446] In alternative embodiments, the pins 1440 and / or heads H1, H2, H3, particularly the second and third heads H2, H3 (or each pin 1440), may be resiliently biased upward or vertically. The pins 1440 and / or heads H1, H2, H3 may move downward as the applicator presses the blank 401 against the article. In this manner, the support surface provided by the flange 1449 and platform 1447 may be placed in contact with the underside of the blank 401 before the blank 401 is applied to the article by the applicator 420, i.e., before the article is engaged with the article holding structures RT1, RT2, and may remain in contact with the underside of the blank 401 during the application or engagement step. Detents or other catches may be provided to prevent upward movement of the pins 1440 or heads H1, H2, H3 when the applicator 420 is released, and the detents or catches may be released when the article engagement tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B release the articles, for example, but not limited to, while being transported in the return range of the track.

[0447] The present invention provides a top-engaging carrier 90,190,390,490 having article retention structures RT1,RT2 for engaging an article B and blanks 10,110,310,410A-B for forming the article carrier 90,190,390,490.

[0448] The carrier 90; 190; 390; 490 includes a main panel 12; 112; 312; 412 having one or more article retention structures RT1, RT2 for receiving and securing a respective article B on the main panel 12; 112; 312; 412. The carrier 90; 190; 390 includes a pair of opposing side panels 18, 20; 118, 120; 314, 316 hingedly connected to the main panel 12; 112; 312 by hinge connections.

[0449] The carrier 90, 190, 390 includes a pair of opposing end panels 14, 16, 114A, 114B, 116A, 116B, 324, 334 hingedly connected to a main or mating panel 12, 112, 312 by hinge connections.

[0450] The blanks 10, 110, 310, 410A-B have peripheral edges, a portion of which may provide at least one alignment edge shaped to prevent movement in two orthogonal directions when the reference device or pin 440, 540, 640, 740 is engaged.

[0451] The carriers 90, 190, 390 include panels 18, 20, 118, 120, 318, 320 hinged to a main panel 12, 112, 312, with registration edges formed to prevent movement in two orthogonal directions.

[0452] The carrier 90, 190, 390 includes a pair of panels 18, 20, 118, 120, 318, 320 hinged to either side of the main panel 12, 112, 312, and each of the pair of panels 18, 20, 118, 120, 318, 320 includes a registration edge configured to prevent movement in two orthogonal directions.

[0453] Imaginary straight lines N1, N2 passing through the respective aligned edges of the pair of panels 18, 20, 118, 120, 318, 320 pass through openings in the main panels 12, 112, 312 defined by the article retaining structures RT1, RT2 provided therein.

[0454] The main or engagement panel 12, 112, 312, 412 may include an opening in the main panel 12, 112, 312, 412 and may include at least one stabilizing device M arranged to prevent movement in two orthogonal directions.

[0455] The present invention provides apparatus 400, 500, 600, 700 for packaging one or more articles onto an article carrier 90, 190, 390, 490. The apparatus 400, 500, 600, 700 includes article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434, 532A, 532B, 534, 632A, 632B, 634, 732A, 732B, 734 for engaging article B and transporting article B in a downstream direction. The article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434; 532A, 532B, 534; 632A, 632B, 634; 732A, 732B, 734 are provided with reference devices in the form of abutment pins or pegs 440; 540; 640; 740 for aligning the blanks 10; 110; 310; 410A-B with the article B.

[0456] The abutment pins or pegs 440, 540, 640, 740 may include heads H1, H2, H3. The heads H1, H2 may provide a datum Mb. The datum Mb provides a wall for engaging the edge of the blank 10, 110, 310, 410A-B. The wall may be cylindrical. The upper ends of the heads may be tapered to provide an inclined or conical surface for aligning the blank 10, 110, 310, 410A-B with the datum Mb. The heads H2, H3 may provide a support surface to prevent, inhibit, or reduce undesired deformation or creasing in target areas of the blank 10, 110, 310, 410A-B. The head H2 may include a datum Mb attached to or extending from the support surface.

[0457] The article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434; 532A, 532B, 534; 632A, 632B, 634; 732A, 732B, 734 may include removable heads 442; 542 to which reference devices are attached. The heads 442; 542 may include part of a tool-less attachment or mounting system, such as, but not limited to, a bayonet fitting.

[0458] The apparatuses 400, 500, 600, 700 include a plurality of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434, 532A, 532B, 534, 632A, 632B, 634, 732A, 732B, 734, each of which engages a respective article B, measures and groups the articles B, and transports them downstream as a measured group. Each of the plurality of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434, 532A, 532B, 534, 632A, 632B, 634, 732A, 732B, 734 is independently driven on an endless track having a working range and a return range.

[0459] The plurality of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434; 532A, 532B, 534; 632A, 632B, 634; 732A, 732B, 734 may be configured to form a metrology group for article B and align the blanks 10; 110; 310; 410A-B therewith. Article B is formed into the metrology group and aligned with the blanks 10; 110; 310; 410A-B as the blanks 10; 110; 310; 410A-B are fed onto the top ends of article B. The blanks 10, 110, 310, 410A-B may contact or be aligned with an abutment pin 440, 540, 640, 740 attached to the leading or downstream one of a plurality of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434, 532A, 532B, 534, 632A, 632B, 634, 732A, 732B, 734 forming the article group.

[0460] The blanks 10, 110, 310, 410A-B may be brought into contact with or aligned with abutment pins 440, 540, 640, 740 each attached to one of a pair of leading or downstream article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434, 532A, 532B, 534, 632A, 632B, 634, 732A, 732B, 734 forming an article group.

[0461] At least one abutment pin 440, 540, 640, 740 attached to a subsequent or upstream one of the multiple article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434, 532A, 532B, 534, 632A, 632B, 634, 732A, 732B, 734 that form the article group may contact the blank 10, 110, 310, 410A-B once formation of the article group is complete.

[0462] The abutment pins 440; 540; 640; 740 are shaped to provide at least two points of contact with the registration edge to prevent movement of the blanks 10; 110; 310; 410A-B parallel to the direction of flow of the blanks 10; 110; 310; 410A-B through the apparatus 400; 500; 600; 700 and perpendicular or transverse to the direction of flow of the blanks 10; 110; 310; 410A-B through the apparatus 400; 500; 600; 700.

[0463] The apparatus 400; 500; 600; 700 may include an applicator 420; 520; 620; 720; AP for pressing the blanks 10; 110; 310; 410A-B against the group of articles B. The applicator 420; 520; 620; 720; AP may include a plurality of article receiving orifices for respectively receiving each article B of the group.

[0464] The applicator 420;520;620;720;AP includes at least one stabilizing peg 450;650;654;P1,P2 receivable in an opening of a stabilizing device M provided in the main panel 12;112;312;412. The at least one stabilizing peg 450;650;654;P1,P2 limits movement of the blank 10;110;310;410A-B relative to the applicator 420;520;620;720;AP.

[0465] At least one stabilizing peg 450; 650, 654; P1, P2 prevents or inhibits movement of the blank 10; 110; 310; 410A-B relative to the article B in a direction parallel to the direction of flow of the blank 10; 110; 310; 410A-B through the apparatus 400; 500; 600; 700, as well as in a transverse direction perpendicular to the direction of flow of the blank 10; 110; 310; 410A-B through the apparatus 400; 500; 600; 700.

[0466] The applicators 420, 520, 620, 720, AP are mounted on an overhead conveyor in the form of a wheel which applies or engages the blanks 10, 110, 310, 410A-B to the group of articles B as they are conveyed downstream by a plurality of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434, 532A, 532B, 534, 632A, 632B, 634, 732A, 732B, 734.

[0467] The applicators 420, 520, 620, 720, AP each include one or more folding dies or brakes that at least partially fold a panel hinged to the main panel 12, 112, 312, 412 around the group of articles B, which panel may include a registration edge.

[0468] In some embodiments, one or more panels of the blank 10, 110, 310, 410A-B may contact the static folding guide while the applicator 420, 520, 620, 720, AP is engaged or in contact with the blank 10, 110, 310, 410A-B.

[0469] The present invention provides a method for packaging a plurality of articles B. The method includes conveying a stream of articles B downstream through a packaging apparatus and engaging each article B with an article engagement tool 432A, 432B, 434, 532A, 532B, 534, 632A, 632B, 634, 732A, 732B, 734 to group the plurality of articles B and simultaneously apply a blank to the top edges of the articles B. The method includes engaging at least one leading alignment edge of a blank 10, 110, 310, 410A-B with a reference pin 440, 540, 640, 740 attached to a leading article engagement tool 432A, 432B, 434, 532A, 532B, 534, 632A, 632B, 634, 732A, 732B, 734. The method includes measuring article group B and engaging a reference pin 440, 540, 640, 740 attached to a subsequent article engagement tool 432A, 432B, 434, 532A, 532B, 534, 632A, 632B, 634, 732A, 732B, 734 with at least one trailing alignment edge of the blank 10, 110, 310, 410A-B.

[0470] The method further includes applying the blank 10; 110; 310; 410A-B to the group of articles B, engaging each article B with a respective article retention device RT1, RT2 provided on the main panel 12; 112; 312; 412 of the blank 10; 110; 310; 410A-B. Applying the blank 10; 110; 310; 410A-B to the group of articles B includes inserting stabilizing pegs 450; 650, 654; P1, P2 into openings in a stabilizing device M provided on the main panel 12; 112; 312; 412 before pressing the main panel against the group of articles B.

[0471] Applying the blank 10; 110; 310; 410A-B to the group of articles B may further include at least partially folding one or more panels, including leading and / or trailing registration edges, coupled to the main panel 12; 112; 312; 412. The one or more panels may be folded before, simultaneously with, or after the main panel 12; 112; 312; 412 engages the group of articles B.

[0472] The present invention provides a top-engagement type carrier 490 having article retention structures RT, RT1, RT2 for engaging articles B, and blanks 410A-B for forming the article carrier 490. The present invention provides a plurality of connected blanks 401 that can be simultaneously applied to a plurality of groups of articles B. Each blank 410A-B in the plurality of connected blanks 401 is frangibly connected to at least one other blank 410A-B.

[0473] The present disclosure provides an apparatus 700 for packaging one or more articles onto an article carrier 490. The apparatus may include article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 for engaging and transporting article B in a downstream direction. The article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 include reference devices in the form of abutment pins or pegs 740 for aligning the plurality of connected blanks 401 relative to article B.

[0474] The plurality of article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 may be configured to form a metrology group for article B and align the plurality of connected blanks 401 therewith. Article B is formed into a metrology group and aligned simultaneously with the plurality of connected blanks 401 as it is fed to the top end of article B. The plurality of connected blanks 401 may contact or be aligned with an abutment pin 740 attached to a leading or downstream one of the plurality of article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 that form the article group.

[0475] The plurality of connected blanks 401 may contact or align with abutment pins 740 attached to each of the plurality of article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 that form the article group.

[0476] At least one abutment pin 740 attached to the rear end or upstream one of the multiple item engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 that form the item group can be brought into contact with the multiple connected blanks 401 once the formation of the item group is complete.

[0477] The abutment pin 740 is shaped to provide at least two points of contact with the alignment edge to prevent movement of the multiple connected blanks 401 parallel to the direction of flow through the apparatus 700, as well as perpendicular or transverse to the direction of flow through the apparatus 700.

[0478] The present invention provides an applicator AP; 720 for pressing a plurality of connected blanks 401 against a group of articles B. The applicator AP; 720 may include a plurality of article receiving orifices for respectively receiving a respective article B of the group. The applicator 720 forms part of a tool head 702 attached to an overhead wheel arrangement 754 and applies or engages the plurality of connected blanks 401 against the group of articles B conveyed downstream on a conveyor. The applicator AP; 720 includes at least one cutting or separating device for severing the frangible connection 413 between adjacently positioned blanks 410A-B.

[0479] The applicator AP;720 may include at least one stabilizing peg P1, P2 receivable in an opening of a stabilizing device provided in the main panel 412 of at least one blank 410A-B forming the plurality of connected blanks 401. The at least one stabilizing peg P1, P2 limits movement of the plurality of connected blanks 401 relative to the applicator AP;720.

[0480] At least one stabilizing peg P1, P2 prevents or inhibits movement of the multiple connected blanks 401 relative to the item B in a direction parallel to the flow direction of the multiple connected blanks 1 through the packaging device, as well as in a lateral direction perpendicular to the flow direction of the multiple connected blanks 401 through the packaging device.

[0481] The stabilizing pegs P1, P2 may be detachably or removably attached to the applicator AP; 720. The stabilizing pegs P1, P2 may be coded or keyed to a particular attachment position or orientation.

[0482] The cutting or separating device may include one or more blades CE1, CE2, CE3, CE4, BL, BL1, BL2, BL3, BL4, BL5 arranged to avoid collision with the articles being packaged. The blades are attached to a common body spaced apart. The blades are positioned to fit into gaps or voids between two or more articles B. The articles B are generally cylindrical. The frangible connection 413 may include connecting nicks or bridge portions N1, N2, N3, N4 aligned perpendicular to the gaps or voids between the two or more articles B. The connecting nicks or bridge portions N1, N2, N3, N4 may be arranged in pairs positioned substantially opposite the closest region between the article B in the first connecting blank and the article B in the second connecting blank.

[0483] The blades BL, BL2, BL3 are detachably or removably attached to the applicator AP; 720, and the arrangement of the blades BL, BL2, BL3 can be reconfigured depending on the arrangement and / or size of the blank to be applied to the article B.

[0484] The present invention also provides a separating apparatus for separating a plurality of linked article carriers into individual carriers. The separating apparatus may include a plurality of article receiving orifices for respectively receiving each article B of the group. The cutting device has at least one blade BL, BL1, BL2, BL3, BL4, BL5 detachably or removably attached thereto, and the arrangement of the blades BL, BL1, BL2, BL3, BL4, BL5 is reconfigurable depending on the arrangement and / or size of the blanks to be applied to the articles B.

[0485] The blades BL, BL1, BL2, BL3, BL4, BL5 may be supported laterally by support or auxiliary blades. The blade and the support or auxiliary blade may each comprise a receiver in the form of a recess or slot for receiving a portion of the other.

[0486] The present invention provides a method for packaging a plurality of articles B. The method includes conveying a stream of articles B downstream through a packaging apparatus, engaging each article B with an article engagement tool 732A, 732B, 734, grouping the plurality of articles B, and simultaneously applying a plurality of connected blanks 401 to top ends of the articles B. The method includes engaging a leading alignment edge of at least one of the plurality of connected blanks 401 with a reference pin 740 attached to a leading article engagement tool 732A, 732B, 734. The method includes gauging the group of articles B and engaging a reference pin 740 attached to a trailing article engagement tool 732A, 732B, 734 with a trailing alignment edge of at least one of the plurality of connected blanks 401.

[0487] The method further includes separating the plurality of connected blanks 401 into individual blanks 410A, 410B and simultaneously applying the individual blanks 410A, 410B to respective groups of articles B. Separating the plurality of connected blanks 401 includes inserting stabilizing pegs P1, P2 into openings in a stabilizing device provided in the main panel 412 before severing the frangible connections between pairs of blanks 410A, 410B.

[0488] Blanks 10, 110, 310, 410A-B include at least a paperboard substrate. The paperboard substrate material can be selected from conventional paperboards, e.g., having a weight of about 10 pt or greater, preferably ranging from about 16 pt to about 28 pt (0.028 in. / about 0.7 mm). Examples of such substrates include 27-point (pt.) SBS board (solid bleached sulfate paperboard coated on one side, trade names PrintKote® or CNK®) manufactured by WestRock Company, and board (Coated Natural Kraft®—unbleached kraft paperboard with a clay coating on one side, trade name Carrier Kote™). The paperboard substrate can be bleached or unbleached board. The paperboard can be coated on at least one side, optionally opposite the lamination surface, with a conventional coating selected to suit the printing method and paperboard composition.

[0489] The blanks 10, 110, 310, 410A-B may include a tear-resistant layer laminated to the paperboard layer. An adhesive layer may also be optionally included between the paperboard substrate and the tear-resistant layer. The tear-resistant layer may be disposed on the uncoated side of the paperboard substrate and formed of a polymeric material and secured to the substrate. The tear-resistant layer provides toughness to the laminate structure. Suitable tear-resistant materials include, but are not limited to, tear-resistant laminate sheet materials such as NATRALOCK®. These materials may include layers of biaxially oriented polyester, oriented nylon, cross-laminated polyolefin, or n-axially oriented films, such as MYLAR (commercial product), which are high-density polyolefins. The orientation and cross-laminated structure of these materials contribute to their tear-resistant properties. Tear resistance may also be due to the chemical properties of the tear-resistant material, such as extruded metallocene-catalyzed polyethylene (mPE).

[0490] Alternatively, the tear-resistant layer may be a linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) layer. In embodiments where linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) or mPE is used, it is not necessary to incorporate an adhesive layer. Other suitable materials with a high level of tear resistance may also be used.

[0491] 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.

[0492] It will be appreciated that various modifications are possible within the scope of the present invention. For example, the size and shape of the panels and openings may be adjusted to accommodate articles of different sizes or shapes. Shoulder panels may be omitted. The present invention is not limited to top-engaging cartons, but may also be applied to other carton styles, such as, but not limited to, open-top crates, lidded or closed-top crates. In various embodiments, the separating apparatus may be readily adapted to apply blanks to group B of articles, and similarly, the applicator device may be readily adapted to separate multiple connected article carriers.

[0493] It will be appreciated that directional references such as "top," "bottom," "base," "front," "back," "end," "side," "inside," "outside," "upper," and "lower" used herein do not necessarily limit the respective panels to such orientations, but are merely used to distinguish these panels from one another.

[0494] As used herein, the terms "hinge connection" and "fold line" refer to any type of line that defines a blank's hinge function, facilitates fold line sectioning of the blank relative to one another, or indicates optimal panel fold line locations in the blank. References to a "hinge connection" should not necessarily be interpreted as referring to only a single fold line. In fact, a hinge connection may be formed from two or more fold lines, each of which may be either straight or curved. When straight fold lines form a hinge connection, the fold lines may be parallel to one another or slightly angled relative to one another. When curved fold lines form a hinge connection, the fold lines intersect with one another to define a shaped panel within the area enclosed by the curved fold lines. A typical example of such a hinge connection is a pair of arched or bowed fold lines that intersect at two points and define an oval panel therebetween. A hinge connection may be formed from one or more straight fold lines and one or more curved fold lines. A typical example of such a hinge connection includes a combination of straight fold lines and arched or bowed fold lines that intersect at two points to define a half-moon shaped panel therebetween.

[0495] As used herein, the term "fold line" may refer to any of the following: score lines, embossed lines, debossed lines, perforation lines, short slit lines, half-cut lines, single half-cuts, interrupted cut lines, aligned slit lines, score lines, as well as any combination of the aforementioned options.

[0496] It should be understood that the hinge connection and fold line can each include elements formed in the blank substrate (e.g., perforations, perforation lines, short slit lines, half-cut lines, single half-cuts, cut lines, interrupted cut lines, slits, scores, embossed lines, debossed lines, any combination thereof, etc.). The elements can be sized and configured to provide the desired functionality. For example, perforation lines can be dimensioned and designed with a degree of fragility to define the fold or cut line. Perforation lines can be designed to be easy to fold but not break, easy to fold but not break, or designed to break easily with little force.

[0497] As used herein, the phrase "aligned" refers to the alignment of two or more elements within an erected carton, such as the placement of an opening formed in a first of two overlapping panels with a second opening formed in a second of the two overlapping panels. These aligned elements may be aligned in the thickness direction of the overlapping panels. For example, if an opening in a first panel is "aligned" with a second opening in a second panel that is positioned in an overlapping position with the first panel, the edge of the opening may extend along at least a portion of the edge of the second opening and be aligned with the second opening in the thickness direction of the first and second panels. [Explanation of symbols]

[0498] 10, 110, 310, 401, 410 Blank 12, 112, 312, 412 Main Panel 13, 15, 17, 19, 113, 115, 117, 119, 161, 163, 165, 167, 169, 171, 173, 175, 313, 315, 317, 319, 323, 325, 333, 335, 337, 391 Fold lines 14, 16, 114, 116, 314, 324, 334 End Panels 18, 20, 118, 120, 318, 316, 320 Side Panels 160, 162 corner panels 164, 166 Fixed Panel 168, 170 Web Panel 172, 176 flaps 174, 178 Wing part 195, 399, 441 Cutting line or cuttable line 40, 46, 50, 440 teeth 41, 51, 441 Radial cut lines 42, 43, 44, 54, 142, 144, 154, 194, 370, 372, 380, 392, 394, 396, 460, 462 Tabs 43, 45, 53, 55, 443, 445 Circumferential cut lines 60, 460 Primary tab 62, 462 secondary tab 90, 190, 390, 490 cartons or carriers, article carriers 318, 320 top panel 322, 332 anchor flap 326, 336 Top flap 328, 330 Hinge Panel 400, 500, 600, 1400 Packaging Equipment 412 Engagement Panel 413 Weak Connections 420, 620, 720 applicator 421, 450, 850 plates 432A, 432B, 434, 732A, 732B, 734, 1432, 1434 Article engagement tool 440, 540, 640, 740, 1440 Reference pin or post, abutment pin 442, 542, 1442, H1, H2, H3 head 443, 1443 Gripper or Scoop 444, 1444 Fixing mechanism, locking mechanism 446, 746 Wheel or follower 448 Carriage 450, 650, 654 stabilization pins, stabilization pegs 451 Goods Carrier 452, 652 Folding dies or brakes 702, 802 Tool Head 753 Conveyor 754 overhead wheel configuration 758 Spring Mount 803 Trucks 811 Fixtures 854 Overhead conveyor equipment 1447 Platform 1449 flange A1, A2, A3, A5, A10, RA1, RA2 aperture AP Applicator B Goods BL1, BL2, BL3, BL4, BL5 blade configurations C recess or notch CE Breaking Edge G Guide H handle structure N1, N2 virtual lines N1, N2, N3, N4 Notch or bridge part, connecting nick M Stabilization Device MA1, MA2 mounting orifice Mb reference body OR orifice P1, P2 posts, struts, stabilizing pegs RC receiver RT1, RT2 Article holding structure SP separation device W1, W2 Alignment or positioning device

Claims

1. An article-engaging carrier for packaging at least one article, comprising a main panel having at least one article retention structure for engaging the article, the carrier comprising at least one panel having a peripheral edge including, in part, at least one registration edge shaped to prevent movement in two orthogonal directions when engaged by a reference device of a packaging apparatus.

2. 10. The article carrier of claim 1, further comprising side panels hingedly connected to the main panel by hinge connections.

3. The article carrier of claim 2 , wherein the at least one registration edge is provided by a peripheral edge portion of the side panel.

4. The article carrier of claim 3 , wherein the at least one registration edge comprises a leading registration edge and a trailing registration edge.

5. 10. The article carrier of claim 1, further comprising a cover panel hingedly connected to the side panel by a hinge connection.

6. The article carrier of claim 4 , wherein the at least one registration edge is provided by a peripheral edge portion of a cover panel.

7. The article carrier of claim 6 , wherein the at least one registration edge comprises a leading registration edge and a trailing registration edge.

8. 10. The article carrier of claim 1, comprising a pair of opposing side panels, each side panel hingedly connected to said main panel by a hinge connection and comprising said at least one registration edge.

9. The article carrier of claim 8 , wherein the at least one registration edge comprises a leading registration edge and a trailing registration edge.

10. 10. The article carrier of claim 1, wherein the article carrier comprises a pair of opposing side panels, each side panel hingedly connected to the main panel by a hinge connection, and a cover panel hingedly connected to each of the pair of opposing side panels and having at least one alignment edge.

11. The article carrier of claim 10 , wherein the at least one registration edge comprises a leading registration edge and a trailing registration edge.

12. 10. The article carrier of claim 1, comprising a pair of opposing end panels, each end panel hingedly connected to the main panel by a hinge connection.

13. 10. The article carrier of claim 1, wherein a panel having a peripheral edge portion providing the at least one registration edge is hingedly connected to the main panel by a hinge connection.

14. 10. The article carrier of claim 1, wherein a panel having a peripheral edge portion providing the at least one registration edge is hingedly connected to the main panel by at least one hinge panel.

15. 2. The article carrier of claim 1, wherein the at least one panel comprises a pair of panels each having a registration edge, and a straight imaginary line passing through the registration edges of each of the pair of panels passes through an opening in the main panel defined by at least one article retaining structure.

16. 10. The article carrier of claim 1, wherein the main panel includes at least one stabilizing device configured to provide an opening in the main panel and to prevent movement in two orthogonal directions.

17. 1. An apparatus for packaging one or more articles into an article carrier, the apparatus comprising an article engagement tool for engaging and transporting the articles in a downstream direction, the article engagement tool comprising a reference device for aligning at least one blank with the one or more articles.

18. 20. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the apparatus comprises an overhead conveyor for conveying the blank onto one or more articles.

19. 20. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the datum device comprises an abutment pin extending upward from the article engagement tool beyond a top edge of one or more articles.

20. 20. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the article engagement tool comprises a removable head to which the datum device is attached.

21. 21. The device of claim 20, wherein the head comprises part of a tool-less mounting system.

22. 22. The device of claim 21, wherein the tool-less attachment system comprises a bayonet fitting.

23. 20. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the apparatus includes a plurality of article engagement tools, each of which engages a respective article, measures and groups the articles, and transports the articles in a downstream direction as at least one measured group.

24. 24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein each of the plurality of article engaging tools is independently driven about an endless track having a working range and a return range.

25. 24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the plurality of item engagement tools comprises at least one leading item engagement tool and at least one trailing item engagement tool.

26. 26. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the at least one leading article engagement tool is configured to engage a leading registration edge of each of the at least one blank.

27. 27. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the at least one subsequent article engagement tool is configured to engage a trailing registration edge of each of the at least one blank.

28. 20. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the abutment pin is shaped to provide at least two points of contact with the alignment edge of the blank to prevent movement of the blank in a direction parallel to the direction of blank flow through the apparatus as well as transverse to the direction of blank flow through the apparatus.

29. 18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the apparatus comprises an applicator for pressing at least one blank against at least one group of articles, the applicator comprising a plurality of article receiving orifices for receiving respective articles in the at least one group of articles formed by the apparatus.

30. 30. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein the applicator comprises at least one stabilizing peg receivable in an opening of a stabilizing device provided in a main panel of at least one blank, the at least one stabilizing peg configured to limit movement of the at least one blank relative to the applicator.

31. 31. The apparatus of claim 30, wherein the at least one stabilizing peg prevents or inhibits movement of the at least one blank relative to the at least one group of articles in a direction parallel to the direction in which the at least one blank flows through the apparatus and in a transverse direction perpendicular to the direction in which the at least one blank flows through the apparatus.

32. 30. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein the applicator is mounted on an overhead conveyor in wheel form so that the applicator applies the at least one blank to at least one group of articles as it is conveyed downstream by a plurality of article engaging tools.

33. 31. The apparatus of claim 30, wherein the applicator includes one or more folding brakes for folding at least one panel hingedly connected to the main panel at least partially around at least one group of articles, the panel including at least one alignment edge configured to engage the reference device.

34. 31. The apparatus of claim 30, comprising one or more static folding guides for folding one or more panels of the at least one blank while the applicator is engaged with the at least one blank.

35. 1. A method for packaging a plurality of items, comprising: conveying the stream of articles downstream through a packaging device; engaging each article with an article engagement tool; Simultaneously with the step of grouping at least one group of articles, applying at least one blank to a top end of the article; engaging at least one leading registration edge of the blank with a reference pin attached to a leading article engagement tool; measuring the at least one group of articles; engaging a reference pin attached to a subsequent article engagement tool with at least one trailing registration edge of at least one blank; The method comprising:

36. 31. The apparatus of claim 30, wherein the method further comprises applying at least one blank to at least one group of items such that each item engages a respective item retention device provided on a main panel of the at least one blank.

37. 37. The apparatus of claim 36, wherein the step of applying the at least one blank to the at least one group of items includes inserting stabilizing pegs into openings in a stabilizing device provided in a main panel of the at least one blank before pressing the main panel against the at least one group of items.

38. 37. The apparatus of claim 36, wherein the step of applying the at least one blank to the at least one group of articles may include at least partially folding one or more panels coupled to a main panel and comprising at least one of a leading registration edge and a trailing registration edge.

39. 39. The apparatus of claim 38, wherein the one or more panels are folded prior to engaging the main panel with the at least one group of items.

40. 39. The apparatus of claim 38, wherein the one or more panels are folded simultaneously with engaging the main panel with the at least one group of items.

41. 39. The apparatus of claim 38, wherein the one or more panels are folded after engaging the main panel with the at least one group of items.

42. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank including a main panel having at least one article retention structure for engaging an article, the blank having at least one panel having a peripheral edge portion, a portion of the peripheral edge portion having at least one alignment edge configured to prevent movement in two orthogonal directions when engaged by a reference device of a packaging machine.

43. An applicator device for separating a plurality of connected blanks into individual blanks and forcing each blank onto two or more groups of articles, the applicator having a plurality of article receiving orifices, each orifice receiving a respective article, and a cutting device for cutting frangible connections between adjacently positioned blanks.

44. 44. The applicator device of claim 43, wherein the applicator includes at least one stabilizing peg receivable into an opening in a stabilizing device provided in a main panel of each blank, the at least one stabilizing peg configured to limit movement of the blank relative to the applicator.

45. 45. The applicator device of claim 44, wherein the at least one stabilizing peg is removably attached to a plate provided with an article-receiving orifice.

46. 46. ​​The applicator device of claim 45, wherein the at least one stabilizing peg is keyed to a predetermined receiving position on the plate.

47. 46. ​​The applicator device of claim 45, wherein the at least one stabilizing peg is keyed to the plate in a predetermined receiving orientation.

48. 44. An applicator device according to claim 43, wherein the applicator comprises a plate and at least one guide depending from the plate for holding a group of articles in a predetermined arrangement.

49. 44. An applicator device according to claim 43, wherein the cutting device comprises one or more blades attached to a plate in which the article-receiving orifices are provided.

50. 50. The applicator device of claim 49, wherein the one or more blades are removably attached to the plate.

51. 51. The applicator device of claim 50, wherein the one or more blades include at least one detent for engaging a catch in a slot in the plate.

52. 51. The applicator device of claim 50, wherein the plate comprises one or more release openings to allow the detent to be released from the catch.

53. 51. The applicator device of claim 50, wherein the plate comprises a plurality of blade receiving locations and a plurality of blades that can be reconfigured into a desired arrangement to correspond to a given configuration of connected blanks.

54. A cutting device for separating a plurality of linked article carriers engaged with a group of articles, the cutting device comprising: a plate having a plurality of article receiving orifices for receiving each of the articles and a plurality of blade receiving locations to which a cutting blade can be removably attached for severing frangible connections between adjacently positioned carriers; and a plurality of blades removably attached to the plate, the plurality of blades being reconfigurable into a desired arrangement to accommodate a given configuration of the connected carriers.

55. 55. The cutting device of claim 54, wherein the plurality of blades are mountable to the plate in a first configuration to separate a first configuration of connected carriers and mountable to the plate in a second different configuration to separate a second different configuration of connected carriers.

56. A plurality of connected blanks for forming a plurality of article carriers, each blank being weakly connected to at least one adjacent blank by a weak connection including at least one pair of connecting nicks, each blank including an engagement panel with at least one article retention device for receiving and suspending an article therefrom, a first article retention device of a first blank and a second article retention device of a second blank defining an imaginary line passing through the centers of the first article retention device and the second article retention device, the imaginary line being perpendicular to the weak connection between the first blank and the second blank, the pair of connecting nicks being located on either side of the imaginary line, and the imaginary line defining the area of ​​closest proximity between the first article retention device and the second article retention device.

57. 1. An apparatus for packaging one or more articles into an article carrier, the apparatus including an article engagement tool for engaging and transporting the articles in a downstream direction, the article engagement tool including a reference device for aligning a plurality of connected blanks with two or more groups of articles.

58. 58. The apparatus of claim 57, comprising an applicator that separates the plurality of connected blanks into individual blanks and presses each blank against two or more groups of articles, the applicator having a plurality of article receiving orifices for receiving each article, and a cutting device for severing frangible connections between adjacently positioned blanks.

59. 59. The apparatus of claim 58, wherein the applicator comprises at least one stabilizing peg receivable in an opening of a stabilizing device provided in a main panel of each blank, the at least one stabilizing peg configured to limit movement of the blank relative to the applicator.

60. 60. The apparatus of claim 59, wherein the at least one stabilizing peg prevents or inhibits movement of the blank relative to the group of articles in a direction parallel to the direction of flow of the blanks through the apparatus and in a transverse direction perpendicular to the direction of flow of the blanks through the apparatus.

61. 59. The apparatus of claim 58, wherein the applicator is mounted on an overhead conveyor in wheel form so that the applicator applies at least one blank to at least one group of articles as it is conveyed downstream by a plurality of article engaging tools.

62. 58. The apparatus of claim 57, wherein the apparatus comprises an overhead conveyor for transporting the plurality of joined blanks onto one or more articles.

63. 58. The apparatus of claim 57, wherein the datum device comprises an abutment pin extending upward from the article engagement tool beyond a top edge of one or more articles.

64. 58. The apparatus of claim 57, wherein the article engagement tool comprises a removable head to which the datum device is attached.

65. 58. The apparatus of claim 57, comprising a plurality of article engagement tools, each of which engages a respective article to measure and group the articles and transport the articles in a downstream direction as a measured group.

66. 66. The apparatus of claim 65, wherein the plurality of item engagement tools comprises at least one leading item engagement tool and at least one trailing item engagement tool.

67. 67. The apparatus of claim 66, wherein the at least one leading article engagement tool is configured to engage a leading alignment edge of each of the plurality of connected blanks.

68. 68. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the at least one trailing article engagement tool is configured to engage a trailing alignment edge of each of the plurality of connected blanks.

69. 1. A method for packaging a plurality of items, comprising: forming at least two groups of items; applying a plurality of connected blanks to an upper end of the article; engaging reference pins in the plurality of joined blanks to align the plurality of joined blanks with the article; lowering an applicator over the article and the plurality of connected blanks to insert a stabilizing pin into an opening in each blank; further lowering the applicator to sever the frangible joint between adjacently positioned blanks; contacting a plate of the applicator with each individual blank; further lowering the applicator to press the individual blank against the top edge of the article and displace the engagement tabs upwardly out of the plane of the blank until the tabs engage a flange around the top edge of the article; The method comprising:

70. 1. A method for packaging a plurality of items, comprising: conveying the stream of articles downstream through a packaging device; engaging each article with an article engagement tool; Simultaneously with the step of grouping the plurality of groups of items, applying a plurality of connected blanks to an upper end of the article; engaging at least one leading alignment edge of the blank with a reference pin attached to a lead article engagement tool; measuring the group of articles; engaging a reference pin attached to a trailing article engagement tool with a trailing alignment edge of at least one of the plurality of connected blanks; The method comprising:

71. 71. The method of claim 70, further comprising the steps of separating the plurality of connected blanks into individual blanks and applying the individual blanks to the group of items, engaging each item with a respective item retention device provided on a main panel of the blank.

72. 72. The method of claim 71, wherein applying blanks to the group of articles comprises inserting a stabilizing peg into an opening in a stabilizing device in a main panel of at least one blank before separating the plurality of connected blanks into individual blanks.

73. applying the connected blanks to the group of articles, with each article engaging a respective article retention device on a main panel of each blank to form a plurality of connected article carriers; separating the plurality of connected article carriers into individual article carriers; 71. The method of claim 70, further comprising:

74. 74. The method of claim 73, wherein separating the plurality of connected article carriers includes inserting a stabilizing peg into an opening in a stabilizing device provided in a main panel of at least one article carrier before separating the plurality of connected article carriers into individual article carriers.

75. 1. A plurality of connected blanks for forming a multiple article carrier, each blank frangibly connected to at least one adjacent blank by a frangible connection, each blank of the plurality of connected blanks including a main panel having at least one article retention structure for engaging an article, the plurality of connected blanks including at least one panel having a peripheral edge portion, a portion of the peripheral edge portion provided with at least one alignment edge configured to prevent movement in two orthogonal directions when engaged by a reference device of a packaging machine.

76. A separation apparatus for separating a plurality of connected article carriers into individual article carriers, the separation apparatus comprising a cutting device for severing frangible connections between adjacently positioned article carriers.

77. 77. The separation apparatus of claim 76, wherein the separation apparatus includes at least one stabilizing peg receivable in an opening of a stabilizing device provided in a main panel of each article carrier, the at least one stabilizing peg configured to limit movement of the article carrier relative to the separation apparatus.

78. 77. The separation apparatus of claim 76, comprising at least one guide for aligning the plurality of connected article carriers.

79. 77. The separation apparatus of claim 76, wherein the separation apparatus includes a pair of opposing guides for aligning the plurality of connected article carriers, the plurality of connected article carriers being receivable between the pair of opposing guides.

80. 77. The separating device of claim 76, wherein the separating device is mounted on an overhead conveyor and synchronized with the article carriers for continuous downstream transport through the work envelope of the packaging machine.

81. 1. A blank for forming an article-engaging carrier for packaging at least one article, the blank comprising a main panel having at least one article retaining structure for engaging the article, the main panel comprising at least one stabilizing device that provides an opening in the main panel for preventing movement of the blank in two orthogonal directions when the opening receives a stabilizing peg of an applicator for pressing the main panel against the at least one article.

82. 82. The blank of claim 81, further comprising at least one panel having a peripheral edge portion, a portion of the peripheral edge portion provided with at least one alignment edge configured to prevent movement in two orthogonal directions when engaged by a reference device of a packaging apparatus.

83. 82. The blank of claim 81, wherein the opening is defined by at least one tab that is stamped out of and hingedly connected to the main panel.

84. 82. The blank of claim 81, wherein the opening has a non-circular shape that prevents rotational movement of the blank when the opening receives a stabilizing peg of an applicator having a non-circular cross-section.

85. 20. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the datum device comprises an abutment pin extending upward from the article engagement tool beyond a top edge of one or more articles, the abutment pin having a head.

86. 86. The apparatus of claim 85, wherein the head provides a datum.

87. 87. The apparatus of claim 86, wherein the datum provides a wall for engaging an edge of at least one blank.

88. 88. The device of claim 87, wherein the wall is a cylindrical wall.

89. 86. The apparatus of claim 85, wherein an upper end of the head is tapered to provide an angled surface for aligning at least one blank with a datum.

90. 90. The apparatus of claim 89, wherein the inclined surface is conical.

91. 86. The apparatus of claim 85, wherein the head comprises a support surface to inhibit undesired deformation of the blank in a target area.

92. 92. The apparatus of claim 91, wherein the head comprises a datum extending from the support surface.

93. 1. An apparatus for packaging one or more articles into an article carrier, the apparatus including an article engagement tool for engaging the articles and transporting the articles in a downstream direction, the article engagement tool having a reference device for aligning a plurality of connected blanks with two or more groups of articles, the reference device having an abutment pin extending upward from the article engagement tool beyond an upper end of the one or more articles, the abutment pin having a head, the head having a support surface for preventing undesired deformation of a target area of ​​the plurality of connected blanks.

94. 1. An apparatus for packaging one or more articles into an article carrier, the apparatus including an article engagement tool for engaging an article and transporting the article in a downstream direction, the article engagement tool comprising a support device for supporting a portion of at least one blank, the support device comprising an abutment pin extending upwardly from the article engagement tool, the abutment pin having a head, the head comprising a support surface for preventing undesired deformation of the at least one blank in a target area thereof.

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