Goods carrier

Abstract

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a package, an article carrier for packaging one or more articles (B), and a blank for forming the carrier. The article carrier includes a pair of spaced-apart panels, including at least one upper panel and a lower panel. The at least one upper panel includes an upper article receiving opening in the form of an aperture. The lower panel includes a lower article receiving opening. The upper and lower article receiving openings are arranged in vertical alignment and have respective peripheral edges configured and dimensioned to at least partially engage articles (B) at two vertically spaced heights.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to article carriers and blanks for forming the same. More particularly, but not exclusively, the present invention relates to top-gripping type carriers having an engagement panel including one or more apertures for receiving and retaining articles therein and a top panel secured thereto. [Background technology]

[0002] In the packaging art, it is known to provide cartons for transporting multiple items. Cartons are well known in the art and are useful for allowing consumers to transport, store, and access groups of items for consumption. Due to cost and environmental considerations, such cartons or carriers need to be formed from as little material as possible and require as little waste as possible in the materials from which they are formed. A further consideration is the strength of the carton and its suitability for holding and transporting large quantities of items. It is desirable for the contents of the carton to be secure within the carton.

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

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

[0005] A first aspect of the present invention provides an article carrier for engaging at least one article, and a blank for forming the same. The article carrier includes spaced apart panels, including at least one upper panel and a lower panel. The at least one upper panel includes an upper article receiving opening in the form of an aperture, and the lower panel includes a lower article receiving opening. The upper and lower article receiving openings are disposed in vertical alignment and have respective peripheries configured and dimensioned to at least partially engage articles at two vertically spaced elevations.

[0006] Optionally, the lower item receiving opening takes the form of an item retaining structure partially defined by one or more engagement tabs, the one or more engagement tabs being punched from the lower panel and hingedly connected to the lower panel, the one or more engagement tabs being hingedly connected at their proximal ends to the lower panel by hinge connections and defining a periphery of the lower item receiving opening, the one or more engagement tabs including an engagement edge at their distal ends, the distal ends facing the proximal ends, the one or more engagement tabs being configured and dimensioned such that at least a portion of the periphery of the lower item receiving opening abuts the item when the item is received in the item retaining structure such that the one or more engagement tabs yield and press the item out of the plane of the lower panel.

[0007] Optionally, the article carrier engages the article at two vertically spaced heights above and below a protrusion on the article, the protrusion being supported by an engaging edge of one or more engaging tabs such that the article is suspended from the engaging edge of the one or more engaging tabs.

[0008] Optionally, the upper article-receiving opening includes an aperture having a scalloped or serrated edge configured to form a tight fit around the generally upright wall of the article.

[0009] Optionally, the at least one upper panel includes a first upper panel and a second upper panel. The article carrier may include a keel structure extending between the at least one upper panel and the lower panel. The keel structure may include a first keel panel hingedly connected to the first upper panel by a first hinged connection and extending to a floor panel disposed in surface-contacting relationship with the lower panel.

[0010] Optionally, a portion of the keel structure defines a portion of a first tubular structure. The first tubular structure may include an upper article receiving opening in the form of an aperture in the first upper panel. A lower article receiving opening may be defined in the lower panel in vertical alignment with the upper article receiving opening.

[0011] Optionally, the carrier may include a second tubular structure, and the floor panel may provide part of the spine connecting the first and second tubular structures together.

[0012] Optionally, at least one upper panel can be substantially parallel to the lower panel.

[0013] Optionally, the upper article receiving opening includes an aperture, the aperture defining a non-linear edge in the upper panel and configured to form a tight fit around the generally upright wall of the article. Optionally, the non-linear edge is arcuate.

[0014] A second aspect of the present invention provides an article carrier for engaging at least one article. The article carrier includes spaced apart panels, including at least one upper panel, a lower panel, and a keel structure extending between the at least one upper panel and the lower panel. The keel structure includes a first keel panel hingedly connected to a first of the at least one upper panels. A second of the at least one upper panels includes an upper article receiving opening in the form of an aperture, and the lower panel includes a lower article receiving opening. The first keel panel is hingedly connected to the first upper panel and to a first side of the floor panel. The floor panel is hingedly connected along its second (opposite) side to the second keel panel. The first upper panel includes an article receiving aperture defined therein, the article receiving aperture extending into the first keel panel and interrupting the hinged connection therebetween. The article receiving aperture is positioned to allow an upper portion of the article to pass therethrough.

[0015] Optionally, the first keel panel includes an engagement edge defined by a portion of the article-receiving aperture.

[0016] Optionally, the engagement edge of the first keel panel is provided by engagement teeth stamped from the first keel panel and defines a portion of the periphery of the article-receiving aperture.

[0017] A third aspect of the present invention provides an article carrier for engaging at least one article and a blank for forming the article carrier. The article carrier includes a plurality of panels for forming a tubular structure, the plurality of panels including a pair of spaced apart panels, including an upper panel and a lower panel. The upper panel includes an inner top panel and an outer top panel. The article carrier further includes end closure structures for closing each end of the tubular structure. The end closure structures include end panels that are hingedly connected to the lower panel along their end edges. The end closure structures include a first anchor panel, the first anchor panel hingedly connected to a side edge of the inner top panel and disposed in a surface-contacting relationship with the inner top panel, and a second anchor panel hingedly connected to a side edge of the first side panel and disposed in a surface-contacting relationship with the first side panel. The first side panel connects the inner top panel to the lower panel. The second anchor panel is connected to the end panels by a first connecting panel. The end closure structure includes a third anchor panel hingedly connected to a side edge of the outer top panel and disposed in a face-contacting relationship therewith, a fourth anchor panel hingedly connected to a side edge of the second side panel and disposed in a face-contacting relationship therewith, the second side panel connecting the outer top panel to the bottom panel, and the fourth anchor panel connected to the end panel by a second connecting panel.

[0018] Optionally, the first anchor panel is configured and arranged to avoid obscuring an item receiving opening disposed in the inner top panel, and the third anchor panel is configured and arranged to avoid obscuring an item receiving opening disposed in the outer top panel.

[0019] Optionally, the end panel includes a free end edge opposite a hinged edge defined by the hinged connection to the lower panel, the free end edge being disposed in contact with a surface of each of the first and third anchor panels.

[0020] A fourth aspect of the present invention provides an article carrier for engaging at least one article, and a blank for forming the same. The article carrier includes a plurality of panels, including an engagement panel and a hinged panel hingedly connected thereto by a hinged connection. The engagement panel includes at least one article retention structure. The at least one article retention structure includes an article receiving opening, the article receiving opening being at least partially defined by a plurality of engagement teeth, the plurality of engagement teeth being punched from the engagement panel and hingedly connected thereto so as to define at least a portion of the periphery of the article receiving opening. The periphery of the article receiving opening includes a toothless region, the toothless region being disposed adjacent to the hinged connection between the engagement panel and the hinged panel. The toothless region interrupts the hinged connection between the engagement panel and the hinged panel. The toothless region is defined by either a cut or notch extending between a pair of adjacent engagement teeth. The cutout may be provided in the form of an aperture.

[0021] A fifth aspect of the present invention provides an article carrier for engaging at least one article, and a blank for forming the same. The article carrier includes a pair of spaced-apart panels, including at least one upper panel and an engagement panel. The engagement panel includes at least one pair of article retention structures. Each article retention structure includes an article receiving opening at least partially defined by a plurality of engagement teeth, the plurality of engagement teeth being punched from and hingedly connected to the engagement panel so as to define at least a portion of the periphery of the article receiving opening. The periphery of each article receiving opening includes a toothless region. The toothless region of a first one of the at least one pair of article retention structures is disposed adjacent to the toothless region of a second one of the at least one pair of article retention structures. The article carrier includes a keel structure extending between the at least one upper panel and the engagement panel. The at least one upper panel includes first and second upper panels, which can optionally be disposed in a facing relationship to each other. The keel structure includes a first keel panel hingedly connected to the first upper panel and a floor panel, the floor panel hingedly connected to the first keel panel along a first side thereof. Optionally, the floor panel can be hingedly connected to the second keel panel along a second (opposite) side thereof. The toothless region of each of the at least one pair of item retention structures is configured to receive a portion of one of the first and second keel panels and promotes engagement of the free edges of the first and second keel panels beneath a protrusion of an item received in each of the at least one pair of item retention structures.

[0022] A sixth aspect of the present invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank includes a plurality of panels, including at least one upper panel and a lower panel, and a keel structure extending between the at least one upper panel and the lower panel. The at least one upper panel includes first and second upper panels. Optionally, the first and second upper panels can be disposed in a facing relationship with each other. The second upper panel includes an upper article receiving opening in the form of an aperture, and the lower panel includes a lower article receiving opening. The keel structure includes a first keel panel hingedly connected to the first upper panel and a floor panel, the floor panel hingedly connected to the first keel panel along a first side thereof. Optionally, the floor panel can be hingedly connected to the second keel panel along a second (opposite) side thereof. The first upper panel includes an article receiving aperture defined therein. Optionally, the item receiving aperture may extend into the first keel panel, interrupting the hinged connection therebetween. The item receiving aperture is positioned to allow an upper portion of the item in the setup carrier to pass therethrough.

[0023] A seventh aspect of the present invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank includes a plurality of panels for forming a pair of connected tubular structures. The plurality of panels includes a first keel panel, a first upper panel, a first side panel hingedly connected to the first upper panel, a base panel hingedly connected to the first side panel, a second keel panel, a second upper panel, a second side panel hingedly connected to the second upper panel and to the base panel, and a floor panel configured to extend between the first keel panel and the second keel panel. The first upper panel includes at least one first upper article-receiving opening in the form of an aperture, and the second upper panel includes at least one second upper article-receiving opening in the form of an aperture. The lower panel includes a lower article receiving opening configured to remain vertically aligned with a respective one of the at least one first and second upper article receiving openings in the first and second upper panels.

[0024] Additional features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the specific embodiments illustrated in the drawings and discussed below.

[0025] It is contemplated or intended that within the scope of this application, the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features, and alternatives described in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims, and / or in the following description and drawings may be considered or interpreted independently or in any combination thereof.

[0026] A feature or element described in connection with or relating to one embodiment is applicable to all embodiments unless there is an incompatibility of the feature. One or more features or elements from one embodiment can be incorporated into or combined with any of the other embodiments disclosed herein, and the feature or element extracted from said one embodiment can be included in addition to or instead of one or more features or elements of said other embodiments.

[0027] Any feature or combination of features of an embodiment disclosed herein may be extracted in isolation from other features of that embodiment. Alternatively, any feature or combination of features of an embodiment may be omitted from that embodiment.

[0028] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0029] [Figure 1] 1 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a first embodiment; FIG. [Figure 2] 2 is a top perspective view of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 1; FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a second embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 3. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a third embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 5. [Figure 7A] 7 is a perspective end view of the carrier of FIG. 6 with a portion of the carrier removed for illustrative purposes. [Figure 7B]7 is a perspective end view of the carrier of FIG. 6 with a portion of the carrier removed for illustrative purposes. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 9] FIG. 6 is a perspective view from below of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 5. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 10 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a seventh embodiment. [Figure 13] 13 is a top perspective view of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 12. FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to an eighth embodiment. [Figure 15] 15 is a top perspective view of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 14. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0030] Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of packages, blanks, and carriers are disclosed herein. It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of ways in which certain aspects of the present invention may be implemented and do not represent an exhaustive list of all ways in which the present invention may be embodied. As used herein, the term "exemplary" is used broadly to refer to embodiments that serve as illustrations, specimens, models, or patterns. Indeed, it will be understood that the packages, blanks, and carriers described herein can be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale, and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components. Well-known components, materials, or methods have not necessarily been described in detail to avoid obscuring the present disclosure. Any 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 to variously use the present invention.

[0031] Referring to Figure 1, a plan view of a blank 10 is shown which may form a carton or carrier 90 as shown in Figure 2 for containing and transporting a group of primary products such as, but not limited to, bottles or cans (hereinafter referred to as Item B). The blank 10 forms a secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package.

[0032] Alternative blanks 110; 210; 310; 410; 510; 610; 710 are shown in Figures 3, 5, 8, 10, 11, 12, and 14 for forming cartons or carriers 190; 290; 390; 690; 790 as shown in Figures 4, 6, 9, 13, and 15 for containing and transporting groups of primary products such as, but not limited to, bottles or cans (hereinafter referred to as Item B).

[0033] In the embodiments detailed herein, the terms "carton" and "carrier" refer to a container for engaging and carrying an article, such as a primary product container, for non-limiting purposes of illustrating various features of the present 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 bottles, glass bottles, or plastic bottles), cans (e.g., aluminum cans), tin cans, pouches, packets, and the like.

[0034] The blanks 10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710 are formed from sheets of suitable substrate. As used herein, the term "suitable substrate" should be understood to include all types of foldable sheet material, such as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, and the like. It should be recognized that one or more blanks may be used, where appropriate, for example, to provide a carrier structure, as described in more detail below.

[0035] The packaging structures or cartons 90;190:290;390;690;790 described herein can be formed from sheet materials such as paperboard, which can be made from or coated with materials to increase their strength. An example of such a sheet material is the tear-resistant NATRALOCK® paperboard made by WestRock Company. It should be noted that tear-resistant materials can be provided by two or more layers to help improve the tear resistance of the package. Typically, one surface of the sheet material can have different properties from the other surface. For example, the surface of the sheet material facing outward from the finished package can be smooth, have a coating or other surface treatment, such as a clay coating, to provide good printability, among other things. On the other hand, the surface of the sheet material facing inward can be provided with a coating, layer, treatment, or otherwise prepared to provide properties such as tear resistance, good adhesiveness, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties.

[0036] In the illustrated embodiments, blanks 10; 110; 210; 310; 410; 510; 610; 710 are configured to form cartons or carriers 90; 190; 290; 390; 690; 790 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary items B. In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1-11, 14, and 15, the arrangement is a 2x3 matrix or array. In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1-11, 14, and 15, two rows of three items B are provided, and the items B are 500 ml or 591 ml (20 US fluid ounce) bottles. In the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13, blank 610 is arranged to accommodate a 2x2 matrix or array arrangement of four items, i.e., two rows of two items B, and is configured to accept items in the form of 591 ml (20 US fluid ounce) bottles.

[0037] Alternatively, blanks 10; 110; 210; 310; 410; 510; 610; 710 can be configured to form carriers for packaging other types, numbers, and sizes of items B and / or for packaging items B in different arrangements or configurations.

[0038] 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 lower wall or mating panel of a carrier 90 (see FIG. 2).

[0039] A first side panel 14 is hingedly connected to a first side of the main panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 13. A first top or cover panel 18 is hingedly connected to the first side panel 14 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 17.

[0040] A second side panel 16 is hingedly connected to a second side of the main panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 15. A second top or cover panel 20 is hingedly connected to the second side panel 16 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 19.

[0041] The first top panel 18, the second top panel 20, the first and second side panels 14, 16, and the main panel 12 form a tubular structure. Each end of the tubular structure is closed by an end closure structure. The first end closure structure includes a first end panel 22A hingedly connected to a first end of the main panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 21A.

[0042] The first anchor flap 28A is hingedly connected to a first end of the first top panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line F2. The first anchor flap 28A is hingedly connected to a second anchor flap 26A by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 27A. The second anchor flap 26A is hingedly connected to a first end of the first side panel 14 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line F1.

[0043] The first connecting panel 24A is hingedly connected to the second anchor flap 26A by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 25A. The first connecting panel 24A is hingedly connected to the first end panel 22A by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 23A.

[0044] The first side panel 14 is separated from the first connecting panel 24A by an aperture A1. The aperture A1 separates each of the first connecting panel 24A and the second anchor flap 26A from the main panel 12.

[0045] The third anchor flap 34A is hingedly connected to a first end of the second top panel 320 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line F6. The third anchor flap 34A is hingedly connected to a fourth anchor flap 32A by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 33A. The fourth anchor flap 32A is hingedly connected to a first end of the second side panel 16 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line F5.

[0046] The second connection panel 30A is hingedly connected to the fourth anchor flap 32A by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 31 A. The second connection panel 30A is hingedly connected to the first end panel 22A by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 29A.

[0047] The second side panel 16 is separated from the second connecting panel 30A by an aperture A1. The aperture A1 separates each of the second connecting panel 30A and the fourth anchor flap 32A from the main panel 12.

[0048] The second end closure structure includes a second end panel 22B hingedly connected to a first end of the main panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 21B.

[0049] The fifth anchor flap 28B is hingedly connected to a first end of the first top panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line F4. The fifth anchor flap 28B is hingedly connected to a sixth anchor flap 26B by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 27B. The sixth anchor flap 26B is hingedly connected to a second end of the first side panel 14 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line F3.

[0050] The third connecting panel 24B is hingedly connected to the sixth anchor flap 26B by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 25B. The third connecting panel 24B is hingedly connected to the second end panel 22B by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 23B.

[0051] The first side panel 14 is separated from the third connecting panel 24B by an aperture A1. The aperture A1 separates each of the third connecting panel 24B and the sixth anchor flap 26B from the main panel 12.

[0052] The seventh anchor flap 34B is hingedly connected to a first end of the second top panel 320 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line F8. The seventh anchor flap 34B is hingedly connected to an eighth anchor flap 32B by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 33B. The eighth anchor flap 32B is hingedly connected to a second end of the second side panel 16 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line F7.

[0053] The fourth connecting panel 30B is hingedly connected to the eighth anchor flap 32B by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 31 B. The fourth connecting panel 30B is hingedly connected to the second end panel 22B by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 29B.

[0054] The second side panel 16 is separated from the fourth connecting panel 30B by an aperture A1. The aperture A1 separates each of the fourth connecting panel 30B and the eighth anchor flap 32B from the main panel 12.

[0055] The main panel 12 of the blank 10 includes at least one item retention structure RT1. The main panel 12 includes a plurality of item retention structures RT1, specifically six item retention structures RT1 arranged in a 2x3 matrix or array. Each of the item retention structures RT1 includes a first item-receiving opening at least partially defined by a pair of engagement tabs or teeth 40, 42.

[0056] The item retaining structure RT1 includes a first engagement tab 40 that is punched out of the main panel 12 and hingedly connected to the main panel 12 by a fold line 41. A second engagement tab 42 that is punched out of the main panel 12 and hingedly connected to the main panel 12 by a fold line 43. The second engagement tab 42 is hingedly connected to the main panel 12 on an opposite side from the first engagement tab 40. The second engagement tab 42 is separated from the first engagement tab 40 by a cut or severable line. The cut line may be non-linear and defines a tongue T extending from the second engagement tab 42 and a recess R at the free end edge of the first engagement tab 40.

[0057] An outermost item retention structure RT1 disposed adjacent to the first or second end panel 22A, 22B can interrupt the fold lines 21A, 21B between the main panel 12 and a respective one of the first and second end panels 22A, 22B. The cut lines separating the first and second engagement tabs 40, 42 from one another can extend to the respective fold lines 21A, 21B.

[0058] The first top panel 18 includes at least one second item receiving opening defined by an aperture A2. In the illustrated embodiment, the first top panel 18 includes three second item receiving openings A2, each configured to be vertically aligned with one of the item retaining structures RT1 in the main panel 12 disposed adjacent to the first side panel 14. The apertures A2 are defined by cut lines SE, which may define scalloped or serrated engagement edges in the first top panel 18.

[0059] The second top panel 20 includes at least one second item receiving opening defined by an aperture A2. In the illustrated embodiment, the second top panel 20 includes three second item receiving openings, each configured to be vertically aligned with one of the item retaining structures RT1 in the main panel 12 disposed adjacent to the second side panel 16. The aperture A2 is defined by a cut line SE, which may define a scalloped or serrated engagement edge in the second top panel 20.

[0060] The apertures A2 in the first and second top panels 18,20 are smaller in size, diameter, or width than the openings in the main panel 12 defined by the engagement tabs 40,42.

[0061] The first and second top panels 18, 20 are configured to be disposed in at least a partially overlapping relationship, with a portion of the first top panel 18 configured to be in face-to-face contact with a portion of the second top panel 20 to form a composite top panel 18 / 20.

[0062] The blank 10 includes a panel fastening device L (see FIG. 2 ) that includes at least one first locking element L1 in the first top panel 18, at least one second locking element L2 in the second top panel 20, and at least one third locking element RC in the main panel 12.

[0063] In the illustrated embodiment, the first top panel 18 includes a pair of first locking elements L1, the second top panel 20 includes a pair of second locking elements L2, and the main panel 12 includes a pair of third locking elements RC, each of which is centrally disposed between a group of four item retention structures RT1.

[0064] In the illustrated embodiment, the first locking element L1 takes the form of a first locking tab 80 that is stamped from or defined within the first top panel 18 and is hingedly connected thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 81. The first locking tab 80 defines an opening in the first top panel 18; in alternative embodiments, the locking tab can be omitted and replaced with an aperture to define the opening in the first top panel 18.

[0065] The second locking element L2 takes the form of a second locking tab 82 that is stamped from or defined within the second top panel 20 and hingedly connected thereto by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 83. The second locking tab 82 includes a head AH that may be generally arrowhead-shaped, i.e., at least a portion of the head AH may be wider than the main body of the second locking tab 82 so as to define a shoulder S or barb for engaging the main panel 12. The first locking tab 80, when provided, may likewise be arranged to include a head AH that defines a shoulder S.

[0066] In some embodiments, the first locking tab 80 or opening may be larger in size, length, and / or width than the second locking tab 82 to facilitate easier passage of the second locking tab 82 through the first top panel 18.

[0067] The third locking element RC takes the form of an opening in the main panel 12, which may be at least partially defined by one or more receiving tabs 70, 72. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1 , the opening is defined by a pair of receiving tabs 70, 72 that are stamped out of the main panel 12 and hingedly connected thereto by hinged connections in the form of fold lines 71, 73. The first receiving tab 70 is hingedly connected to the opposite side from the second receiving tab 72. The second receiving tab 72 has a greater length than the first receiving tab, with the length defined between the hinged edges defined by the fold lines 71, 73 and the opposing free end edges of the receiving tabs 70, 72.

[0068] Turning to the construction of carrier 90 from blank 10, blank 10 can be formed into assembled carrier 90 as shown in FIG.

[0069] The blank 10 is applied to a group of items B. The blank 10 is lowered relative to the group of items B. Each of the item retaining structures RT1 of the blank 10 is aligned with a respective item B in the group. A portion of the item B passes through the main panel 12. Each engagement tab 40, 42 of the item retaining structure RT1 is bent out of the plane of the main panel 12.

[0070] The blank 10 is folded about fold lines 13, 15 to bring the first side panel 14 and the first top panel 18 into a substantially perpendicular relationship with the main panel 12, and the second end panel 16 and the second top panel 20 into a substantially perpendicular relationship with the main panel 12. In doing so, the first and second end panels 22A, 22B are also folded upward relative to the main panel 12, and the first and second end panels 22A, 22B may be folded through an angle greater than 90° so as to be inclined relative to the main panel 12. Each of the first and second end panels 22A, 22B defines an interior angle with the main panel 12, which may be less than 90°, such that the upper free edges of the end panels 22A, 22B can provide support edges for the first and second top panels 18, 20.

[0071] The first and fifth anchor flaps 28A, 28B are folded into a facing relationship with the first top panel 18, and the second and sixth anchor flaps 26A, 26B are folded into a facing relationship with the first side panel 14.

[0072] The fold line 27A that hinges the first and fifth anchor flaps 28A, 28B together is aligned with the fold line 17 between the first top panel 18 and the first side panel 14. The fold line 27B that hinges the second and sixth anchor flaps 26A, 26B together is aligned with the fold line 17 between the first top panel 18 and the first side panel 14.

[0073] The first connecting panel 24A is folded into a face-to-face relationship with the second anchor flap 26A, and the third connecting panel 24B is folded into a face-to-face relationship with the sixth anchor flap 26B.

[0074] The third and seventh anchor flaps 34A, 34B are folded into a facing relationship with the second top panel 20, and the fourth and eighth anchor flaps 32A, 32B are folded into a facing relationship with the second side panel 16.

[0075] The fold line 33A that hinges the third and seventh anchor flaps 34A, 34B together is aligned with the fold line 19 between the second top panel 20 and the second side panel 16. The fold line 33B that hinges the fourth and eighth anchor flaps 32A, 32B together is aligned with the fold line 19 between the second top panel 20 and the second side panel 16.

[0076] The second connecting panel 30A is folded to face the fourth anchor flap 32A, and the fourth connecting panel 30B is folded to face the eighth anchor flap 32B.

[0077] The first top panel 18 is then folded relative to the first side panel 14 about fold line 17 and disposed over the main panel 12. In doing so, the first anchor flap 28A is folded relative to the second anchor flap 26A, and the fifth anchor flap 28B is folded relative to the sixth anchor flap 26B.

[0078] The upper end of item B is received in aperture A2 in first top panel 18.

[0079] The second top panel 20 is then folded relative to the second side panel 16 about fold line 19 and disposed over the main panel 12 in at least partial overlapping relationship with the first top panel 18. In doing so, the third anchor flap 34A is folded relative to the fourth anchor flap 32A, and the seventh anchor flap 34B is folded relative to the eighth anchor flap 32B.

[0080] The upper end of item B is received in aperture A2 in second top panel 20.

[0081] In this partially assembled condition, blank 10 can be further lowered onto item B such that the engaging edges of tabs 40, 42 engage under a protrusion or flange of item B. The protrusion can be provided by a ridge or undercut molding on item B, or by an end closure on item B (for example, but not limited to, a crown cork, tamper-evident screw cap, or other closure). In this manner, the engaging edges grip or hold item B, preventing or inhibiting unintentional separation of item B from main panel 12.

[0082] The second locking tab 82 is then folded inwardly of the carrier 90 and passes through the first top panel 18 (the first locking tab 80, if present, is consequently folded inwardly). The distal portion (head AH) of the second locking tab 82 passes through the opening of the third locking element RC in the main panel 12, and the receiving tabs 70, 72 are displaced downward and outwardly from the interior of the carrier 90. The shoulder S of the head AH engages the lower or outer surface of the main panel 12, preventing or at least inhibiting withdrawal of the second locking tab 82 from the receiving opening. The first locking tab 80, when provided, also passes through and engages the main panel 12, and the shoulder S of the head AH engages the lower or outer surface of the main panel 12.

[0083] When the receiving tabs 70, 72 are received in the receiving openings, they can interact with the locking tabs 80, 82, and the free end edges of one or both of the receiving tabs 70, 72 can engage or contact the locking tabs 80, 82 to prevent or inhibit deployment of the locking tabs 80, 82.

[0084] The opening created in the composite top panel 18 / 20 by deployment or activation of the pair of panel fastening devices L can form a carrying handle for transport of the package.

[0085] Advantageously, the carrier 90 can be assembled or constructed without the use of adhesives or glues to secure the panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 in an upright condition.

[0086] Carrier 90 can beneficially hide from view a portion of item B. Composite top panel 18 / 20 can hide and / or protect the top or upper area of ​​item B.

[0087] 3 through 13, alternative embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. In the second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh illustrated embodiments, like numerals are used where possible to indicate like parts, but with the addition of the prefixes "100," "200," "300," "400," "500," and "600" to indicate that these features belong to the second, third, fourth, fifth, sixth, and seventh embodiments, respectively. The alternative embodiments share many common features with the embodiments of FIGS. 1 and 2, and therefore, only the differences from the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 2 and described above will be described in more detail.

[0088] Referring to FIG. 3, a blank 110 is shown that includes multiple panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, including a main panel 112 for forming the lower wall or engagement panel of a carrier 190 (see FIG. 4). The blank 110 is substantially similar in construction to the blank 10 of FIG. 1, except that the first and second top panels 118, 120 are each positioned to receive an upper portion of a respective packaged item B. The second top panel 120 includes six second item receiving openings arranged in a 2x3 matrix or array, each configured to be vertically aligned with one of the item retaining structures RT1 in the main panel 112. The apertures A2 are defined by cut lines SE, which may define scalloped or serrated engagement edges in the second top panel 120. First top panel 118 includes six third item receiving openings arranged in a 2x3 matrix or array, with each third item receiving opening configured to be vertically aligned with one of the item retaining structures RT1 in main panel 112 and one of the second item receiving openings in second top panel 120. Each third item receiving opening includes a second aperture A3 defined by a cut line, which may be circular in shape to define a circular edge of second top panel 120.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 5, there is shown a blank 210 comprising a plurality of panels 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, including a main panel 212 for forming the lower wall or mating panel of a carrier 290 (see FIGS. 6, 7A, and 7B).

[0090] In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the main panel 212 includes an alternative item retaining structure RT1.

[0091] The item retaining structure RT1 in the embodiment of Figure 5 takes the form of a plurality of teeth or tabs 240 arranged in an annular row around the aperture A4 and forming part of the first item receiving opening.

[0092] A plurality of teeth 240 are provided by the main panel 212. Each of the teeth 240 is hingedly connected to the main panel 212 by a hinged connection. The hinged connection may be defined by a plurality of cut lines 241, 243. The plurality of cut lines 241, 243 may be arranged as an annular row of cuts around the aperture A4.

[0093] The plurality of cut lines 241, 243 may define or approximate a portion of a circle or a polygon (such as, but not limited to, an octagon as illustrated in FIG. 5).

[0094] Each of the annular rows of tabs 240 can be positioned to interrupt a hinged connection (fold lines 213, 215) between the main panel 212 and one of the first and second side panels 214, 216. The endmost item retaining structure RT1 can be positioned to interrupt a hinged connection (fold lines 221A, 221B) between the main panel 212 and one of the first and second end panels 222A, 222B.

[0095] Each of the plurality of teeth 240 includes an engagement edge opposite the hinged edge. The engagement edge is defined by a straight portion of the cut line that defines the aperture A4. Each engagement edge can define a portion of a polygon. The illustrated embodiment includes eight teeth 240 that together define an octagon. Each tooth 240 includes a pair of side edges that are defined by cuts 245 that extend radially outward from a respective vertex of the octagon, i.e., from a respective vertex between a pair of adjacent straight portions of the cut that define a portion of the octagon. The cuts 245 are divergently disposed relative to one another and define a predetermined angle therebetween, which can be approximately 45°.

[0096] The second top panel 220 includes six second item receiving openings, each defined by an aperture A2, arranged in a 2x3 matrix or array, with each second item receiving opening A2 configured to be disposed in vertical alignment with one of the item retaining structures RT1 in the main panel 212. The apertures A2 are defined by cut lines SE, which may define scalloped or serrated engagement edges in the second top panel 220.

[0097] The blank 210 includes a plurality of panels 218B, 218C, 218D for forming a brace or keel structure to increase the rigidity of the carrier 290. The brace or keel structure may be in the form of a beam that extends longitudinally of the carrier 290.

[0098] A plurality of panels 218B, 218C, 218D are hingedly connected to the first top panel 218. The first beam panel 218B is hingedly connected to the first top panel 218 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 217B. The second beam panel 218C (also referred to herein as floor panel 218C) is hingedly connected to the first beam panel 218B by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 217C. The third beam panel 218D is hingedly connected to the second beam panel 218C by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 217D.

[0099] The first top panel 218 includes at least one third item receiving opening A5, and the illustrated embodiment includes three item receiving openings A5, each for receiving a respective one of the items B disposed adjacent the first side panel 214. The third item receiving openings A5 extend into the first beam panel 218B and may be generally oval or oval in shape. Each item receiving opening A5 may include an engagement tooth 244 that is punched out of the first beam panel 218B and extends from the first beam panel 218B into the receiving opening A5.

[0100] The second beam panel 218C includes at least one first locking element L1, and the illustrated embodiment includes two first locking elements L1. The first locking element L1 takes the form of a locking tab receiving opening and can be defined by a first locking tab 280 that is stamped from or defined within the second beam panel 218C and hingedly connected thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 281. The first locking tab 280 includes a head or distal portion opposite the fold line 281 that is wider than a proximal or intermediate portion of the first locking tab 280. As such, the locking tab receiving opening includes a wider portion at one end thereof, defining a waist or limit. 5, the locking tab receiving opening and / or first locking tab 280 can be substantially equal in width to or greater than the width of the second beam panel 218C. The locking tab receiving opening and / or first locking tab 280, or at least a portion thereof, interrupts the hinged connection between the second beam panel 218C and each of the first and third beam panels 218B, 218D.

[0101] The second top panel 220 includes at least one second locking element L2, and the illustrated embodiment includes two second locking elements L2. The second locking element L2 takes the form of a second locking tab 284 that is stamped from or defined within the second top panel 220 and hingedly connected thereto by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 283. The second locking tab 284 includes a head 288 that can be wider than the main body of the second locking tab 284 and that defines a shoulder or barb for engaging the main panel 212. Second locking tab 284 includes a pair of wing portions 286 hingedly connected to opposite sides of a main body or proximal portion of second locking tab 284 by hinged connections in the form of fold lines 285. Wing portions 286 are separated from a head 288 by cut lines 287 that define shoulders or barbs.

[0102] Each second locking tab 284 is configured to be disposed in vertical alignment with the locking tab receiving opening of one of the first locking elements L1. Each second locking tab 284 is configured to be hingedly connected opposite the first locking tab 280 of the first locking element L1 with which it is vertically aligned. The term "opposite" as used herein to describe the relationship between each second locking tab 284 and the associated first locking tab 280 refers to the relationship between those two spaced-apart, vertically aligned tabs 284 and 280, which extend in opposite directions from their respective proximal ends when in their initial, unfolded positions.

[0103] The main panel 212 includes at least one third locking element RC, and the illustrated embodiment includes two third locking elements RC. The third locking elements RC take the form of openings in the main panel 212, which may be defined by respective receiving tabs 270 that are stamped out of the main panel 212 and hingedly connected thereto by hinge connections in the form of fold lines 271. Each receiving tab 270 is hingedly connected to an associated second locking tab 284 on the opposite side. The term "opposite" used herein to describe the relationship between each receiving tab 270 and its associated second locking tab 284 is similar to the relationship illustrated above between each first locking tab 280 and its associated second locking tab 284. More specifically, it refers to the relationship between the two spaced apart, vertically aligned tabs 284 and 270 that extend in opposite directions from their respective proximal ends when in their initial, unfolded positions.

[0104] Figure 6 shows blank 210 being assembled and combined with a group of articles B to form carrier 290 to produce a package. Figures 7A and 7B show perspective views of carrier 290, with a portion of carrier 290 removed for illustrative purposes.

[0105] The first top panel 218 is folded inside the second top panel 220. An item B is received in each of the item receiving openings A5, with a portion of the item B passing through the first top panel 218 and the first beam panel 218B. The first beam panel 218B is folded and inclined relative to the first top panel 218 so as to extend substantially between the composite top panel 218 / 220 and the main panel 212. The second beam panel 218C is disposed between an adjacent pair of items B and / or item retention structures RT1. The second beam panel 218C can be in a surface-contacting relationship with the main panel 212. The third beam panel 218D is folded and inclined relative to the second beam panel 218C. The free end edge of the third beam panel 218D is configured to engage beneath the protrusion or flange FL of an item B in a row adjacent to the row of items B received in the first top panel 218 and first beam panel 218B.

[0106] The second locking tab 284 is folded downward and inwardly of the carrier 290. A distal portion of the second locking tab 284, opposite the proximal portion hingedly connected to the second top panel 220, passes through openings in the second beam panel 218C and the main panel 212. A shoulder S of the head or distal portion 288 engages the lower or outer surface of the main panel 212. The first locking tab 280 is displaced downwardly through the opening in the main panel 212, and the receiving tab 270 is also displaced downwardly out of the plane of the main panel 212. The second locking tab 284 can be folded sufficiently so that the tab 284 is received within the wider distal portion of the opening in the second beam panel 218C, such that an edge of the second beam panel 218C proximate the waist or limit of the opening engages the surface of the second locking tab 284.

[0107] The head portion of the first locking tab 280 is sized and positioned to ensure engagement of the first locking tab 280 across the width of the head 288 of the second locking tab 284 and can prevent or inhibit bending or deformation of the peripheral side portions of the head 288 that might otherwise allow the second locking tab 284 to exit through openings in the second beam panel 218C and main panel 212.

[0108] 7A and 7B show carrier 290 engaging item B at two different heights. Main panel 212 engages item B at a first (lower) height around the neck of item B. Item retaining structure RT1 defines an item receiving opening in main panel 212 having a periphery defined by a hinged connection between the plurality of tines 240 and main panel 212, with at least a portion of the periphery or edge of main panel 212 defined by the item receiving opening engaging an adjacent region of item B passing through the item receiving opening.

[0109] The second top panel 220 engages with the item B at the second (upper) height. The second top panel 220 engages with the item B above a flange or protrusion FL of the item B. The aperture A2 is sized to be smaller than the flange or protrusion FL of the item B, and can prevent or inhibit movement of the item B through the second top panel 220. The annular region of the second top panel 220 surrounding the aperture A2 can deform or displace upward when the item B is received therein. This can create a close engagement or tight fit around the item B at the second (upper) height.

[0110] By engaging item B at two different elevations with a pair of spaced apart panels 212, 220, carrier 290 prevents or reduces item B from rolling or tipping, and when packaging multiple items B, this can prevent or inhibit the items from spreading apart relative to each other.

[0111] The engagement teeth 240 and the first and third beam panels 218B, 218D engage with the item B at a third (intermediate) height disposed between the first and second heights, and the engagement teeth 240 and the first and third beam panels 218B, 218D engage with the item B below a flange or protrusion FL of the item B. The engagement teeth 240 suspend or support the item B and prevent or inhibit extraction of the item B from the carrier 290.

[0112] Referring to Figure 8, there is shown a blank 310 comprising a plurality of panels 312, 314, 316, 318, 320, including a main panel 312 for forming the lower wall or engagement panel of a carrier 390 (see Figure 9). The blank 310 is substantially similar in construction to the blank of Figure 5, with only the differences being described in further detail.

[0113] The main panel 312 includes a plurality of item retaining structures RT1, which are substantially similar in construction to those of the blank of FIG.

[0114] The blank 310 includes a plurality of panels 318B, 318C, 318D for forming a brace or keel structure to increase the rigidity of the carrier 390. The brace or keel structure may be in the form of a beam that extends longitudinally of the carrier 390.

[0115] A plurality of panels 318B, 318C, 318D are hingedly connected to the first top panel 318. The first beam panel 318B is hingedly connected to the first top panel 318 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 317B. The second beam panel 318C (also referred to herein as floor panel 318C) is hingedly connected to the first beam panel 318B by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 317C. The third beam panel 318D is hingedly connected to the second beam panel 318C by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 317D.

[0116] The second beam panel 318C includes at least one first locking element L1, and the illustrated embodiment includes two first locking elements L1. The first locking element L1 takes the form of a locking tab receiving opening and can be defined by a first locking tab 380 that is stamped from or defined within the second beam panel 318C and hingedly connected thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 381. The first locking tab 380 includes a head or distal portion opposite the fold line 381 that is wider than a proximal or intermediate portion of the first locking tab 380. As such, the locking tab receiving opening includes a wider portion at one end thereof, defining a waist or limit. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8, the locking tab receiving opening and / or first locking tab 380 is substantially smaller in width than the second beam panel 318C.

[0117] The second top panel 320 includes at least one second locking element L2, and the illustrated embodiment includes two second locking elements L2. The second locking element L2 takes the form of a second locking tab 384 that is stamped from or defined within the second top panel 320 and hingedly connected thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 383. The second locking tab 384 includes a head 388 that defines a shoulder or barb for engaging the main panel 312. The second locking tab 384 includes a pair of wing portions along opposite sides of a main body or proximal portion of the second locking tab 384. The wing portions are integral with the main body; i.e., the fold line 285 of the embodiment in FIG. 5 is omitted. The wing portion is separated from the head 388 by a cut line 387 that defines a shoulder or barb. A second locking tab 384 is hingedly connected to the opposite side of the first locking tab 380.

[0118] The main panel 312 includes at least one third locking element RC, and the illustrated embodiment includes two third locking elements RC. The third locking element RC takes the form of an opening in the main panel 312, which can be defined by a single receiving tab 370 that is stamped out of the main panel 312 and hingedly connected thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 371. The receiving tab 370 is hingedly connected to the opposite side of the second locking tab 384. The receiving tab 370 includes a head or distal portion opposite the fold line 371 that is wider than a proximal or intermediate portion of the receiving tab 370. Thus, the receiving tab receiving opening includes a wider portion at one end thereof, defining a waist or limit.

[0119] Figure 9 shows blank 310 in an assembled state to form carrier 290, with item B omitted from Figure 9 for illustrative purposes. Figure 9 shows first, second, and third locking elements L1, L2, RC cooperating to form a panel securement device, with receiving tab 370 displaced downwardly below main panel 312 and outwardly of carrier 390. Second locking tab 384 is also displaced downwardly and passes through a receiving opening in main panel 312.

[0120] A head or distal portion of first locking tab 380 is received in a receiving opening in main panel 312. A shoulder portion of the head engages the lower surface of main panel 312. Receiving tab 370 and second locking tab 384 (if provided) engage the head or distal portion of first locking tab 380 and urge first locking tab 380 toward the end of the receiving opening in main panel 312.

[0121] 10, there is shown a blank 410 comprising a plurality of panels 412, 414, 416, 418, 420, including a main panel 412 for forming the lower wall or engagement panel of a carrier (not shown). The blank 410 is substantially similar in construction to the blank of FIG. 8, with only the differences being described in further detail.

[0122] The blank 410 includes a plurality of panels 418B, 418C, 418D for forming a brace or keel structure to increase the rigidity of the carrier, which may be in the form of a beam extending longitudinally of the carrier.

[0123] A plurality of panels 418B, 418C, 418D are hingedly connected to the first top panel 418. The first beam panel 418B is hingedly connected to the first top panel 418 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 417B. The second beam panel 418C (also referred to herein as floor panel 418C) is hingedly connected to the first beam panel 418B by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 417C. The third beam panel 418D is hingedly connected to the second beam panel 418C by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 417D.

[0124] The first top panel 418 includes at least one third item receiving opening A5, and the illustrated embodiment includes three third item receiving openings A5, each receiving one of the items B disposed adjacent to the first side panel 414. The third item receiving openings A5 extend into the first beam panel 418B. Each third item receiving opening A5 includes a pair of engagement teeth 446 that are punched out of the first beam panel 418B adjacent to the receiving opening A5. The pair of engagement teeth 446 are partially defined and separated by a cut line 447 that is defined in the first beam panel 418B and extends outward from a portion of the item receiving opening A5 provided therein.

[0125] The main panel 412 includes a plurality of item retaining structures RT1, which in the embodiment of FIG. 10 take the form of a plurality of teeth or tabs 440 arranged in an annular row around the aperture A6 to form part of the item receiving opening.

[0126] A plurality of teeth 440 are provided by the main panel 412. Each of the teeth 440 is hingedly connected to the main panel 412 by a hinged connection. The hinged connection may be defined by a plurality of cut lines 441, 443. The plurality of cut lines 441, 443 may be arranged as an annular array of cuts around the aperture A4. The plurality of cut lines 441, 443 may define or approximate a portion of a circle.

[0127] The endmost item retaining structure RT1 is positioned to interrupt the hinged connection (fold lines 421A, 421B) between the main panel 412 and one of the first and second end panels 422A, 422B.

[0128] Each of the teeth 440 includes an engagement edge opposite the hinged edge. The engagement edge is defined by a straight portion of the cut line defining the aperture A6. Each engagement edge can define a portion of a polygon. The illustrated embodiment includes seven teeth 440 that together define a portion of an octagon. Each tooth 440 includes a pair of side edges defined by cuts 445 that extend radially outward from a respective vertex of the aperture A6, i.e., from a respective vertex between a pair of adjacent straight portions of the cuts defining the aperture A6. The cuts 445 are divergently disposed relative to one another and define a predetermined angle therebetween, which can be approximately 45°.

[0129] The annular row of engagement teeth 440 includes a gap or toothless area G, which may be equivalent in size to a single tooth, defining an extension of aperture A6 so that aperture A6 adopts a "keyhole" shape.

[0130] A gap G is provided at a portion of the periphery of aperture A6, in close proximity to a notional line that bisects main panel 412 longitudinally.

[0131] Gap G is positioned at a portion of the periphery of item retention structure RT1 such that it contacts or is in close proximity to one of the first or third beam panels 418B, 418D. In this manner, engagement teeth are not provided below the first or third beam panels 418B, 418D, and only a single layer of material engages item B, which may facilitate or improve engagement between the first or third beam panels 418B, 418D and item B.

[0132] 11, there is shown a blank 510 including a plurality of panels 512, 514, 516, 518, 520, including a main panel 512 for forming a lower wall or engagement panel of a carrier (not shown). The blank 510 is substantially similar in construction to the blank of FIG. 10, except that the main panel 512 includes alternative item retention structures RT1, RT2, and only the differences will be described in further detail.

[0133] The main panel 512 includes a plurality of item retaining structures RT1, RT2, which in the embodiment of Figure 11 take the form of a plurality of teeth or tabs 540 arranged in annular rows around the apertures A7, A8 to form part of the item receiving openings.

[0134] The blank 510 includes four first or endmost item retaining structures RT1, each including a first opening or aperture A7. The blank 510 includes two second (center or intermediate) item retaining structures RT2, each including a second opening or aperture A8. The second apertures A8 can be square, diamond, or kite shaped.

[0135] Each second item holding structure RT2 includes four engagement teeth 540 provided by the main panel 512. Each tooth 540 is separated from its adjacent neighbors by a first cut line 545. The first cut lines 545 extend radially outward from the second aperture A8, specifically, from a vertex or corner of the second aperture A8 when the second aperture A8 is a quadrilateral polygon. Each of the teeth 540 is hingedly connected to the main panel 512 by a hinged connection. The hinged connection can be defined between a pair of second cut lines 543. The second cut lines 543 partially define the periphery of the item receiving opening of the second item holding structure RT2. Each second cut line 543, together with one of the first cut lines 545, defines a "T"-shaped cut. The pairs of "T" shaped cuts are disposed opposite each other, with the "T" shaped cuts of a first pair configured to be perpendicular to the "T" shaped cuts of a second first pair, thus defining a cross-potential with the second aperture A8 at the center.

[0136] The first cut lines 545 of the first pair of "T" shaped cuts are positioned to extend transversely of the main panel 512, and the first cut lines 545 of the second pair of "T" shaped cuts are positioned to extend longitudinally of the main panel 512.

[0137] Each first or endmost item retaining structure RT1 is substantially similar in construction to the second item retaining structure RT2, but one of the "T" shaped cuts is omitted and replaced with a notch G, which may take the form of a generally triangular cutout that intersects with the first aperture A7, which may be square, diamond, or kite shaped.

[0138] The cutout G can be considered to be a gap formed by removing a portion of each of a pair of adjacently disposed engagement teeth 540 .

[0139] Each cutout G is configured to be disposed adjacent one of the fold lines 521A, 521B between the main panel 512 and a respective one of the first and second end panels 522A, 522B. The cutout G may extend into the respective one of the first and second end panels 522A, 522B so as to interrupt the fold line 521A, 521B.

[0140] In this manner, the endmost item retaining structure RT1 is positioned to interrupt the hinged connection (fold lines 521A, 521B) between the main panel 512 and one of the first and second end panels 522A, 522B.

[0141] The plurality of engagement teeth 540 around the first aperture A7 include a gap or toothless area G, which defines an extension of the first aperture A7, causing the first aperture A7 to adopt a "keyhole" shape.

[0142] The gap or tooth-free area G can be thought of as removing a wing or peripheral side portion of each of a pair of adjacently disposed engagement teeth 540, which (if present) might otherwise interfere with or otherwise contact one of the first and second end panels 522A, 522B when folded relative to the main panel 512. In this manner, the first and second end panels 522A, 522B can fold freely without hindrance from the engagement teeth 540. Advantageously, the first and second end panels 522A, 522B do not engage or contact the engagement teeth 540 of the endmost item retaining structure RT1, thus preventing or inhibiting disengagement of the engagement teeth 540 or other compromise of the security of the endmost item retaining structure RT1.

[0143] 12, there is shown a blank 610 including a plurality of panels 612, 614, 616, 618, 620, including a main panel 612 for forming a lower wall or engagement panel of a carrier 690 (see FIG. 13). Blank 610 is substantially similar in construction to the blank of FIG. 3, except that blank 610 is adapted to accommodate four items B in a 2x2 matrix or array arrangement, and main panel 612 includes an alternative item retention structure RT1, and therefore only the differences will be described in further detail.

[0144] The main panel 612 includes a plurality of item retaining structures RT1, specifically four item retaining structures RT1. The item retaining structure RT1 includes an item receiving opening partially defined by an aperture A9 and a pair of opposed engagement tabs 640, 642 spaced apart by the aperture A9. The aperture A9 is configured and shaped such that a side or peripheral portion of each of the pair of opposed engagement tabs 640, 642 is spaced apart from an edge of the item receiving opening and / or from one of the fold lines 621A, 621B between the main panel 612 and a respective one of the first and second end panels 622A, 622B. In this manner, the first and second end panels 622A, 622B do not interfere with the engagement teeth 640, 642 of the item retaining structure RT1, do not hinder the folding of the first and second end panels 622A, 622B relative to the main panel 612, and do not affect the engagement of the engagement teeth 640, 642 with the item B. Aperture A9 interrupts one of the fold lines 621A, 621B between the main panel 612 and the first or second end panel 622A, 622B hingedly connected thereto.

[0145] 14 and 15, a further alternative embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In the eighth illustrated embodiment, like numerals are used where possible to indicate like parts, but with the addition of the prefix "700" to indicate that these features respectively belong to the eighth embodiment. The alternative embodiment shares many common features with the embodiment of FIGS. 1 through 13, and therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 13 and described above will be described in more detail.

[0146] 14, there is shown a blank 10 including a plurality of main panels 718D, 718C, 718B, 718, 714, 712, 716, 720, 720B hinged together in a linear row by respective ones of a plurality of fold lines 717D, ​​717C, 717B, 717, 713, 715, 719, 719B. The plurality of main panels 718D, 718C, 718B, 718, 714, 712, 716, 720, 720B comprise a main panel 712 for forming a lower wall or engagement panel of a carrier 790 (see FIG. 15).

[0147] A first side panel 714 is hingedly connected to a first side of the engagement panel 712 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 713. A first top panel 718 is hingedly connected to the first side panel 714 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 717. A first keel panel 718B is hingedly connected to the first top panel 718 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 717B. A floor panel 718C is hingedly connected to the first keel panel 718B by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 717C. A fixed panel 718D is hingedly connected to the floor panel 718C by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 717D.

[0148] A second side panel 716 is hingedly connected to a second (opposite) side of the engagement panel 712 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 715. A second top panel 720 is hingedly connected to the second side panel 716 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 719. A second keel panel 720B is hingedly connected to the second top panel 720 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 719B.

[0149] The engagement panel 712 of the blank 710 includes at least one item retention structure RT1. The main panel 712 includes a plurality of item retention structures RT1, specifically six item retention structures RT1 arranged in a 2x3 matrix or array. Each of the item retention structures RT1 includes an item receiving opening at least partially defined by a pair of engagement tabs or teeth 740, 742.

[0150] The item retaining structure RT1 includes an opening that is partially defined by a pair of apertures A11, A12 and partially defined by a pair of engagement tabs 740, 742. The first aperture A11 is disposed on a first side of the pair of engagement tabs 740, 742, and the second aperture A12 is disposed on a second (opposite) side of the pair of engagement tabs 740, 742.

[0151] The item retaining structure RT1 includes a first engagement tab 740 that is punched out of the engagement panel 712 and hingedly connected thereto by a fold line 741. A second engagement tab 742 is punched out of the engagement panel 712 and hingedly connected thereto by a fold line 743. The second engagement tab 742 is hingedly connected to the opposite side of the first engagement tab 740. The second engagement tab 742 is separated from the first engagement tab 740 by a cut or severable line. The cut line may be non-linear and defines a tongue T extending from the second engagement tab 742 and a recess R at the free end edge of the first engagement tab 740.

[0152] The engagement panel 712 of the blank 710 includes at least one first handle opening, and in the illustrated embodiment, the engagement panel 712 of the blank 710 includes a pair of first handle openings. A first of the first handle openings is centrally disposed between a first group of four item holding structures RT1 in the array of item holding structures RT1. A second of the first handle openings is centrally disposed between a second group of four item holding structures RT1 in the array of item holding structures RT1. The first and second groups of four item holding structures RT1 may share a pair of common item holding structures RT1. Each handle opening takes the form of an aperture A13 punched out of the engagement panel 712.

[0153] The floor panel 718C includes at least one second handle opening, and in the illustrated embodiment, the engagement panel 712 of the blank 710 includes a pair of second handle openings, a first of which is configured to be disposed in vertical alignment with a first of the pair of first handle openings, and a second of which is configured to be disposed in vertical alignment with a second of the pair of first handle openings.

[0154] Each second handle opening can be at least partially defined by a handle flap 760, which can form a cushioning tab for the carrying handle. The handle flap 760 is stamped from or defined within the floor panel 718C and is hingedly connected thereto by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 761. The handle flap 760 can be sized to pass through an aperture A13 in the engagement panel 712. The handle flap 760 passes through the aperture A13 that forms the first handle opening and can serve to secure or lock the floor panel 718C to the base panel 712. In some embodiments, an adhesive or other adhesive treatment can be used to secure the floor panel 718C to the base panel 712.

[0155] The first top panel 718 includes at least one item receiving opening A10. The illustrated embodiment includes multiple item receiving openings A10, specifically, but not limited to, three item receiving openings A10. The item receiving openings take the form of apertures A10 punched out of the first top panel 718. The apertures A10 can extend transversely across the first top panel 718 and into each of the first side panel 714 and the first keel panel 718B.

[0156] Aperture A10 is formed in a central portion T punched out of the first top panel 718. A and a central portion T A is a portion S of the aperture A10 defined in the first side panel 714 and the first keel panel 718B. A , K. A The central part of the aperture A10 is at least partially wider than the A is the curved cut line part C C1 , C C2 It is defined by

[0157] The aperture A10 includes opposed ends in each of the first side panel 714 and the first keel panel 718B, the opposed ends being defined by a straight cut line portion C E1 , C E2 The straight cut line portion C E1 , C E2 can define an article engaging edge that is configured to be disposed below a flange or protrusion of article B to at least partially support article B. Aperture A10 is sized and positioned to allow an upper end of article B (such as, but not limited to, a cap or closure C) to pass through first top panel 718.

[0158] The second top panel 720 includes at least one item receiving opening A10. The illustrated embodiment includes multiple item receiving openings A10, specifically, but not limited to, three item receiving openings A10. The item receiving openings A10 take the form of apertures A10 punched from the second top panel 720. The apertures A10 can extend transversely across the second top panel 720 and into each of the second side panel 716 and the second keel panel 720B. The item receiving openings A10 in the second top panel 720 are substantially similar in construction to those provided in the first top panel 718 and as described above, and will not be described in further detail.

[0159] 15 shows an article carrier 790 forming a package with multiple articles B, in which a blank 710 is folded to form the article carrier 790. The article carrier 790 includes a tubular structure formed from one of the top panels 718, 720, one of the side panels 714, 716, one of the keel panels 718B, 720B / 718D, and a portion of the base panel 712. The top panels 718, 720 are disposed substantially parallel to the portion of the base panel 712 and may be generally horizontal under normal or resting conditions. That is, the article B includes a generally cylindrical shape with a cylindrical axis perpendicular to the plane of the top panels 718, 720.

[0160] The article carrier 790 includes a pair of tubular structures that extend parallel to one another and are connected by a spine formed from the floor panel 718C and a portion of the base panel 712 disposed in underlying relationship with the floor panel 718C. As such, the spine is two-ply in structure.

[0161] Each cylindrical structure includes at least one first opening in its respective portion of the base panel 712 and at least one second opening in its top panels 718, 720. Item B is received in and partially passes through the at least one first opening, and item B is received in and partially passes through the at least one second opening so as to protrude above the top panels 718, 720. The at least one second opening is shaped to form a tight fit with item B, frictionally engaging a sidewall of item B at a pair of opposing locations around item B. Aperture A10 defines a non-linear contact edge in the top panels 718, 720, which may be curved and complementary to the shape of the sidewall of the portion of the item passing through aperture A10.

[0162] The at least one first opening is at least partially defined by a pair of opposed tabs 740, 742. The pair of opposed tabs 740, 742 are hingedly connected to the base panel 712 by hinged connections that are substantially perpendicular to the cylindrical axes of the respective tubular structures. The pair of opposed tabs 740, 742 engage item B at a location below where the top panels 718, 720 engage item B.

[0163] At least one second opening extends into each of the side panels 714, 716 and keel panels 718B, 720B / 718D of the tubular structure to provide a pair of opposed support edges, and a portion of Item B projects or protrudes outwardly of the side panels 714, 716 and keel panels 718B, 720B / 718D through the at least one second opening.

[0164] Each tubular structure may have a generally trapezoidal cross-sectional shape.

[0165] The blanks 10; 110; 210; 310; 410; 510; 610; 710 comprise at least a paperboard substrate. The material of the paperboard substrate can be selected from any conventional paperboard (e.g., in the weight range of about 10 pt. up, preferably in the range of about 16 pt. to about 28 pt. (0.028" / about 0.7 mm)). Examples of such substrates are 23-point (pt.) SBS board (solid bleached sulfate paperboard coated on one side, trade name PrintKote®) or CNK® board (Coated Natural Kraft® - unbleached kraft paperboard with a clay coating on one side, trade name CarrierKote™) manufactured by WestRock® Company. The paperboard substrate can be bleached or unbleached board. The board can be coated on at least one side (optionally the side opposite the lamination) with a conventional coating selected for compatibility with the printing method and board composition.

[0166] The blank 10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710 can include a tear-resistant layer laminated to the paperboard layer. Optionally, it includes an adhesive layer between the paperboard substrate and the tear-resistant layer. The tear-resistant layer can be disposed over the uncoated side of the paperboard substrate and can be formed from a polymeric material and secured to the substrate. The tear-resistant layer provides toughness to the laminate structure. Suitable tear-resistant materials can include, but are not limited to, tear-resistant laminated sheet materials such as NATRALOCK®, which can include layers of n-axially oriented films such as MYLAR®, which can be biaxially oriented polyester, oriented nylon, cross-laminated polyolefin, or high-density polyolefin. The orientation of these materials and the cross-laminated structure contribute to their tear-resistant properties. Tear resistance can also be attributed to the chemical properties of tear-resistant materials such as extruded metallocene-catalyzed polyethylene (mPE).

[0167] Alternatively, the tear-resistant layer can be a layer of linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE). In embodiments where linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) or mPE is used, it is not necessary to incorporate an adhesive layer. Other suitable materials with a high level of tear resistance can also be used.

[0168] The adhesive layer can be formed from a polyolefin material, such as low density polyethylene (LDPE), and can be disposed between the substrate and the tear-resistant layer to secure the tear-resistant layer to the substrate.

[0169] The present disclosure provides a carrier 90; 190; 290; 390; 690; 790 for engaging at least one item B. The article carrier 90;190;290;390;690;790 includes a pair of spaced apart panels 12, 18 / 20;112,118 / 120;212,218 / 220;312,318 / 320;412,418 / 420;512,518 / 520;612,618 / 620;712,718,720 including an upper panel 18 / 20;118 / 120;218 / 220;318 / 320;418 / 420;518 / 520;618 / 620;718,720 and a lower panel 12;112;212;312;412;512;612;712.

[0170] Upper panels 18 / 20; 118 / 120; 218 / 220; 318 / 320; 418 / 420; 518 / 520; 618 / 620; 718, 720 include upper item receiving openings in the form of apertures A2; A2 / A3; A2 / A5, A10. Lower panels 12; 112; 212; 312; 412; 512; 612; 712 include lower item receiving openings. The upper and lower item receiving openings are disposed in vertical alignment and have respective peripheries configured and dimensioned to at least partially engage item B at two vertically spaced elevations.

[0171] The lower article receiving opening may be in the form of an article retaining structure RT1, RT2 defined in part by one or more engagement tabs 40, 42; 140, 142; 240; 340, 342; 440; 540; 640, 642; 740, 742 that are punched out of and hingedly connected to the lower panel 12; 112; 212; 312; 412; 512; 612; 712. One or more of the engagement tabs 40, 42; 140, 142; 240; 340, 342; 440; 540; 640, 642; 740, 742 are hingedly connected at their proximal ends to the lower panel 12; 112; 212; 312; 412; 512; 612; 712 by hinged connections. One or more of the engagement tabs 40, 42; 140, 142; 240; 340, 342; 440; 540; 640, 642; 740, 742 include an engagement edge at a distal end, the distal end facing the proximal end. The one or more engagement tabs 40, 42; 140, 142; 240; 340, 342; 440; 540; 640, 642; 740, 742 are configured and dimensioned so that when item B is received in the item holding structure RT1, RT2, at least a portion of the periphery of the lower item receiving opening abuts item B, thereby causing the one or more engagement tabs 40, 42; 140, 142; 240; 340, 342; 440; 540; 640, 642; 740, 742 to yield and move out of the plane of the lower panel 12; 112; 212; 312; 412; 512; 612; 712 and press against item B.

[0172] The carriers 90; 190; 290; 390; 690; 790 are capable of engaging with the item B at two vertically spaced heights above and below the flanges or protrusions FL of the item B, which are supported or engaged by the engaging edges of one or more engagement tabs 40, 42; 140, 142; 240; 340, 342; 440; 540; 640, 642; 740, 742, from which the item B is suspended.

[0173] The upper article-receiving opening can include an aperture A2 having a scalloped or serrated edge SE configured to form a tight fit around a substantially upright or vertical wall, which can be provided by an end closure of article B disposed over a flange or protrusion FL of article B.

[0174] Embodiments of the present disclosure provide a brace or keel structure extending between the upper panels 18 / 20; 118 / 120; 218 / 220; 318 / 320; 418 / 420; 518 / 520; 618 / 620; 718, 720 and the lower panels 12; 112; 212; 312; 412; 512; 612; 712.

[0175] The keel structure may include a pair of keel panels 718B, 720B that are hingedly connected to the upper panels 18 / 20; 118 / 120; 218 / 220; 318 / 320; 418 / 420; 518 / 520; 618 / 620; 718, 720 by a first hinged connection and extend to a floor panel 718C that is disposed in a face-contacting relationship with the lower panels 12; 112; 212; 312; 412; 512; 612; 712.

[0176] The keel structure can define a portion of each of a pair of tubular structures, each tubular structure including at least one upper item receiving opening in the form of an aperture in its upper panel 18 / 20; 118 / 120; 218 / 220; 318 / 320; 418 / 420; 518 / 520; 618 / 620; 718, 720, and a lower item receiving opening defined in the lower panel 12; 112; 212; 312; 412; 512; 612; 712 in vertical alignment with the upper item receiving opening. The floor panel 718C provides a portion of the spine connecting the pair of tubular structures together.

[0177] In some embodiments, the brace or keel structure includes an inner top panel 218; 318; 418; 518 disposed in face-to-face relationship with an outer top panel 220; 320; 420; 520. The outer top panel 220; 320; 420; 520 includes an upper article receiving opening. The brace or keel structure includes a first beam or keel panel 218B; 318B; 418B; 518B and a floor panel 218C; 318C; 418C; 518C (also referred to herein as the second beam panel), which is hingedly connected to the inner top panel 218; 318; 418; 518, and which is hingedly connected along its first side to the first keel panel 218B; 318B; 418B; 518B and along its second (opposite) side to the second keel panel 218D; 318D; 418D; 518D (also referred to herein as the third beam panel). The inner top panel 218; 318; 418; 518 includes an item receiving aperture A5 defined therein, which extends into the first keel panel 218B; 318B; 418B; 518B, interrupting the hinged connection therebetween, and which is positioned to allow an upper portion of an item B to pass therethrough.

[0178] The first keel panel 218B; 318B; 418B; 518B includes an engagement edge defined by a portion of the item receiving aperture A5. The engagement edge of the first keel panel 218B; 318B; 418B; 518B may be provided by engagement teeth 244; 344; 446; 546 that are stamped out of the first keel panel 218B; 318B; 418B; 518B and define a portion of the periphery of the item receiving aperture A5.

[0179] The present disclosure provides a carrier 90; 190; 290; 390; 690; 790 for engaging at least one article B. The article carrier 90; 190; 290; 390; 690; 790 includes a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20; 112, 114, 116, 118, 120; 212, 214, 216, 218, 220; 312, 314, 316, 318, 320; 412, 414, 416, 418, 420; 512, 514, 516, 518, 520; 612, 614, 616, 618, 620; 712, 714, 716, 718, 720 for forming a tubular structure. , including a pair of spaced apart panels 12, 18 / 20; 112, 118 / 120; 212, 218 / 220; 312, 318 / 320; 412, 418 / 420; 512, 518 / 520; 612, 618 / 620; 712, 718, 720; and a lower panel 12; 112; 212; 312; 412; 512; 612; 712. The upper panels 18 / 20; 118 / 120; 218 / 220; 318 / 320; 418 / 420; 518 / 520; 618 / 620; 718, 720 include inner top panels 18; 118; 218; 318; 418; 518; 618 and outer top panels 20; 120; 220; 320; 420; 520; 620. The article carrier 90; 190; 290; 390; 690; 790 further includes end closure structures for closing each end of the tubular structure, the end closure structures including end panels 22A, 22B; 122A, 122B; 222A, 222B; 322A, 322B; 422A, 422B; 522A, 522B; 622A, 622B, which are hingedly connected along their end edges to the lower panels 12; 112; 212; 312; 412; 512; 612.The end closure structure includes first anchor panels 28A, 28B; 128A, 128B; 228A, 228B; 328A, 328B; 428A, 428B; 528A, 528B; 628A, 628B hingedly connected to the side edges of the inner top panels 18; 118; 218; 318; 418; 518; 618; 718, and an inner top panel 18; 118; 218; 318; 418; 518; 618; 718. 8;718 to the lower panel 12;112;212;312;412;512;612;712, and a second anchor panel 26A, 26B;126A, 126B;226A, 226B;326A, 326B;426A, 426B;526A, 526B;626A, 626B hingedly connected to the side edge of the first side panel 14;114;214;314;414;514;614. The second anchor panels 26A, 26B; 126A, 126B; 226A, 226B; 326A, 326B; 426A, 426B; 526A, 526B; 626A, 626B are connected to the end panels 22A, 22B; 122A, 122B; 222A, 222B; 322A, 322B; 422A, 422B; 522A, 522B; 622A, 622B by first connecting panels 24A, 24B; 124A, 124B; 242A, 242B; 324A, 324B; 424A, 424B; 524A, 524B; 624A, 624B. The end closure structure includes third anchor panels 34A, 34B; 134A, 134B; 234A, 234B; 334A, 334B; 434A, 434B; 534A, 534B; 634A, 634B hingedly connected to the side edges of the outer top panels 20; 120; 220; 320; 420; 520; 620; 720, and the third anchor panels 34A, 34B; 134A, 134B; 234A, 234B; 334A, 334B; 434A, 434B; 534A, 534B; 634A, 634B hingedly connected to the side edges of the outer top panels 20; 120; 220; 320; 420; 520; 620; 720. 0;720 to the lower panel 12;112;212;312;412;512;612;712, and a fourth anchor panel 32A, 32B;132A, 132B;232A, 232B;332A, 332B;432A, 432B;532A, 532B;632A, 632B hingedly connected to the side edge of the second side panel 16;116;216;316;416;516;616.The fourth anchor panels 32A, 32B; 132A, 132B; 232A, 232B; 332A, 332B; 432A, 432B; 532A, 532B; 632A, 632B are connected to the end panels 22A, 22B; 122A, 122B; 222A, 222B; 322A, 322B; 422A, 422B; 522A, 522B; 622A, 622B by second connecting panels 30A, 30B; 130A, 130B; 302A, 302B; 330A, 330B; 430A, 430B; 530A, 530B; 630A, 630B.

[0180] Each of the first anchor panels 28A, 28B; 128A, 128B; 228A, 228B; 328A, 328B; 428A, 428B; 528A, 528B; 628A, 628B and third anchor panels 34A, 34B; 134A, 134B; 234A, 234B; 334A, 334B; 434A, 434B; 534A, 534B; 634A, 634B is constructed and arranged to avoid obscuring or overlapping an article receiving opening disposed in a respective one of the inner and outer top panels 18, 20; 118, 120; 218, 220; 318, 320; 418, 420; 518, 520; 618, 620; 718, 720.

[0181] The end panels 22A, 22B; 122A, 122B; 222A, 222B; 322A, 322B; 422A, 422B; 522A, 522B; 622A, 622B include free end edges opposite hinged edges defined by hinged connections to the lower panels 12; 112; 212; 312; 412; 512; 612; 712. The free end edges are disposed in contact with the respective surfaces of the first anchor panels 28A, 28B; 128A, 128B; 228A, 228B; 328A, 328B; 428A, 428B; 528A, 528B; 628A, 628B and the third anchor panels 34A, 34B; 134A, 134B; 234A, 234B; 334A, 334B; 434A, 434B; 534A, 534B; 634A, 634B.

[0182] The present disclosure provides a carrier 90; 190; 290; 390; 690; 790 for engaging at least one item B. The article carrier 90;190;290;390;690;790 includes a pair of spaced apart panels 12, 18 / 20;112,118 / 120;212,218 / 220;312,318 / 320;412,418 / 420;512,518 / 520;612,618 / 620, including an upper panel 18 / 20;118 / 120;218 / 220;318 / 320;418 / 420;518 / 520;618 / 620;718 / 720; and a lower panel 12;112;212;312;412;512;612;712. The article carrier 90;190;290;390;690;790 includes a panel locking device including vertically aligned, spaced apart locking tabs, including a first locking tab 82;182;284;384;484;584;682 and a second locking tab 80;180;280;380;480;580;680, wherein the first locking tabs 82;182;284;384;484;584;682 are punched out of the upper panel 18 / 20;118 / 120;218 / 220;318 / 320;418 / 420;518 / 520;618 / 620;718 / 720, and The lower panels 18 / 20; 118 / 120; 218 / 220; 318 / 320; 418 / 420; 518 / 520; 618 / 620; 718 / 720 are hingedly connected to the panels, and the second locking tabs 80; 180; 280; 380; 480; 580; 680 are punched out from the lower panels 12; 112; 212; 312; 412; 512; 612; 712 and are hingedly connected to the lower panels 12; 112; 212; 312; 412; 512; 612; 712. The second locking tab 80;180;280;380;480;580;680 is hingedly connected to the opposite side of the first locking tab 82;182;284;384;484;584;682.The first locking tabs 82;182;284;384;484;584;682 extend between the upper panel 18 / 20;118 / 120;218 / 220;318 / 320;418 / 420;518 / 520;618 / 620;718 / 720 and the lower panel 12;112;212;312;412;512;612;712 and pass through openings in the lower panel 12;112;212;312;412;512;612;712 created by displacement of the second locking tabs 80;180;280;380;480;580;680. A panel locking device L is centrally disposed between the group of four item retaining structures RT1, RT2 and is capable of forming a carrying handle in the activated or deployed condition.

[0183] The present disclosure further provides a carrier 90; 190; 290; 390; 690; 790 for engaging at least one article B. The article carrier 90; 190; 290; 390; 690; 790 includes an engagement panel 12; 112; 212; 312; 412; 512; 612; 712 and hinged panels 14, 16, 22A, 22B; 114, 116, 122A, 122B; 214, 216, 222A, 222B; 314, 316, 322A, 322B; 414, 416, 422A, 42 2B; 514, 516, 522A, 522B; 614, 616, 622A, 622B; 112, 114, 116, 118, 120; 212, 214, 216, 218, 220; 312, 314, 316, 318, 320; 412, 414, 416, 418, 420; 512, 514, 516, 518, 520; 612, 614, 616, 618, 620. The engagement panels 12; 112; 212; 312; 412; 512; 612; 712 include at least one item retention structure RT1, RT2. At least one item holding structure RT1, RT2 includes an item receiving opening that is at least partially defined by a plurality of engagement teeth 240, 440; 540; 640 that are punched out of and hingedly connected to the engagement panel 12; 112; 212; 312; 412; 512; 612; 712 and that define at least a portion of the periphery of the item receiving opening. The periphery of the article receiving opening includes a toothless region, the toothless region being disposed adjacent to the hinged connection between the engagement panel 12; 112; 212; 312; 412; 512; 612; 712 and the hingedly connected panel 14, 16, 22A, 22B; 114, 116, 122A, 122B; 214, 216, 222A, 222B; 314, 316, 322A, 322B; 414, 416, 422A, 422B; 514, 516, 522A, 522B; 614, 616, 622A, 622B.The toothless areas interrupt the hinged connection between the engagement panel 12; 112; 212; 312; 412; 512; 612; 712 and the hingedly connected panel 14, 16, 22A, 22B; 114, 116, 122A, 122B; 214, 216, 222A, 222B; 314, 316, 322A, 322B; 414, 416, 422A, 422B; 514, 516, 522A, 522B; 614, 616, 622A, 622B. The toothless areas are defined by cutouts in the form of apertures punched out of each pair of adjacent engagement teeth 240, 440; 540; 640 (i.e., from the material that would otherwise form the adjacent engagement teeth 240, 440; 540; 640).

[0184] The present disclosure also provides a carrier 90;190;290;390;690;790 for engaging at least one article B. The article carrier 90;190;290;390;690;790 includes a pair of spaced apart panels 12;18 / 20;112,118 / 120;212,218 / 220;312,318 / 320;412,418 / 420;512,518 / 520;612,618 / 620, including a top panel 20;120;220;320;420;520;620;720 and an engagement panel 12;112;212;312;412;512;612;712. Each engagement panel 12;112;212;312;412;512;612;712 includes at least one pair of item retention structures RT1, RT2. Each item retention structure RT1, RT2 includes an item receiving opening at least partially defined by a plurality of engagement tines 240,440,540,640 that are punched out of and hingedly connected to the engagement panel 12;112;212;312;412;512;612;712 and define at least a portion of the periphery of the item receiving opening. A periphery of each article receiving opening includes a toothless region, and the toothless region of a first one of the at least one pair of article retaining structures RT1, RT2 is disposed adjacent or proximate to the toothless region of a second one of the at least one pair of article retaining structures RT1, RT2. The article carrier 90;190;290;390;690;790 includes a brace or keel structure extending between the top panel 18 / 20;118 / 120;218 / 220;318 / 320;418 / 420;518 / 520;618 / 620;718 / 720 and the engagement panel 12;112;212;312;412;512;612;712. The brace or keel structure includes an inner top panel 218; 318; 418; 518 disposed in face-to-face relationship with a top panel 220; 320; 420; 520.The brace or keel structure includes a first beam or keel panel 218B; 318B; 418B; 518B hingedly connected to the inner top panel 218; 318; 418; 518, and a floor panel 218C; 318C; 418C; 518C (also referred to herein as the second beam panel) hingedly connected along its first side to the first keel panel 218B; 318B; 418B; 518B and along its second (opposite) side to a second keel panel 218D; 318D; 418D; 518D (also referred to herein as the third beam panel). The toothless regions of each of at least one pair of item retaining structures RT1, RT2 are configured to receive a portion of one of the first and second keel panels 218B, 218D; 318B, 318D; 418B, 418D; 518B, 518D, and promote engagement of the free edges of the first and second keel panels 218B, 218D; 318B, 318D; 418B, 418D; 518B, 518D beneath the flange or protrusion FL of the item B.

[0185] It will be recognized that as used herein, directional references such as "top," "bottom," "base," "front," "back," "end," "side," "inside," "outside," "upper," and "lower," etc., do not necessarily limit the respective panels to such orientation, but may merely serve to distinguish these panels from one another.

[0186] As used herein, the terms “hinge connection” and “fold line” refer to any manner of line defining a hinge feature of a blank that facilitates folding portions of the blank relative to one another or otherwise indicates an optimal panel fold location for the blank. Reference to a “hinge connection” should not necessarily be interpreted as referring to only a single fold line. Indeed, a hinge connection can be formed from two or more fold lines, where each of the two or more fold lines can be either straight or curved in shape. When straight fold lines form a hinge connection, they can be disposed parallel to one another or can be slightly angled relative to one another. When curved fold lines form a hinge connection, they can intersect one another and define a shaped panel within the area encompassed by the curved fold line. A typical example of such a hinged connection may include a pair of arcuate or circular fold lines that intersect at two points to define an oval-shaped panel therebetween. A hinged connection may be formed from one or more straight fold lines and one or more curved fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may include a combination of straight fold lines and arcuate or circular fold lines that intersect at two points to define a half-moon-shaped panel therebetween.

[0187] As used herein, the term "fold line" may refer to one of the following: scored lines, embossed lines, debossed lines, perforated lines, short slit lines, half cut lines, single half cuts, interrupted cut lines, aligned slit lines, score lines, and any combination of the above options.

[0188] It should be understood that the hinged connections and fold lines can each include elements formed in the substrate of the blank, including perforations, perforation lines, short slit lines, half-cut lines, single half-cut lines, cut lines, interrupted cut lines, slits, scores, embossed lines, debossed lines, and any combination thereof. The elements can be sized and positioned to provide the desired functionality. For example, perforation lines can be sized or designed with a degree of weakness to define fold and / or cut lines. Perforation lines can be designed to facilitate folding and resist breaking, to facilitate folding and facilitate breaking with greater effort, or to facilitate breaking with little effort.

[0189] The phrase "aligned with," as used herein, refers to the alignment of two or more elements in an erected carton (e.g., an aperture formed in a first of two overlapping panels and a second aperture formed in a second of the two overlapping panels). Elements that are aligned with one another can be aligned with one another in the thickness direction of the overlapping panels. For example, when an aperture in a first panel is "aligned with" a second aperture in a second panel that is placed in an overlapping arrangement with the first panel, an edge of the aperture can extend along at least a portion of the edge of the second aperture and can be aligned with the second aperture in the thickness direction of the first and second panels. [Explanation of symbols]

[0190] 10 blank 12 panels, main panel 13 Folding lines 14 Panel, First Side Panel 15 Folding lines 16 panel, second side panel 17 Folding line 18 Panel, first top panel or cover panel 19 Folding lines 20 Panel, Second Top Panel or Cover Panel 21A Bending line 21B Bending line 22A First End Panel 22B Second End Panel 23A Bending line 23B Bending line 24A First Connection Panel 24B Third Connection Panel 25A bending wire 25B Bending line 26A Second Anchor Flap 26B 6th anchor flap 27A Bending line 27B Bending line 28A First Anchor Flap 28B 5th anchor flap 29A Bending line 29B Bending line 30A Second Connection Panel 30B Fourth Connection Panel 31A Bending line 31B Bending line 32A 4th Anchor Flap 32B 8th Anchor Flap 33A Bending line 33B Bending line 34A Third Anchor Flap 34B 7th anchor flap 40 Engagement tab or tooth, first engagement tab 41 Folding line 42 Engagement tab or tooth, second engagement tab 43 Folding line 70 Acceptance Tab, First Acceptance Tab 71 Folding line 72 Acceptance tab, second acceptance tab 73 Folding line 80 First locking tab 81 Folding line 82 Second locking tab 83 Folding line 90 Career 110 Blank 112 Main Panel 114 Panel 116 Panel 118 Panel, First Top Panel 120 panel, second top panel 210 Blank 212 Main Panel 213 Bending line 214 Panel, First Side Panel 215 Bending line 216 Panel, Second Side Panel 217B Bending line 217C Bending line 217D Bending line 218 Panel, First Top Panel 218B Panel, First Beam Panel 218C Panel, second beam panel, floor panel 218D Panel, Third Beam Panel 220 Panel, Second Top Panel 221A Bending line 221B Bending line 222A First End Panel 222B Second End Panel 240 Teeth or tabs, engaging teeth 241 Cut Line 243 Cut Line 244 Engaging teeth 245 cuts 270 Acceptance Tab 271 Bending Line 284 Second Locking Tab 285 Bending Lines 286 Wing part 287 Cut Line 288 Head, head or distal part 290 Career 310 Blank 312 Main Panel 314 Panel 316 Panel 317B Bending line 317C Bending line 317D Bending line 318 Panel, First Top Panel 318B Panel, First Beam Panel 318C Panel, second beam panel, floor panel 318D Panel, Third Beam Panel 320 Second Top Panel 370 Acceptance Tab 371 Bending Line 384 Second Locking Tab 387 Cut Line 388 head 390 Career 410 Blank 412 Main Panel 414 Panel, First Side Panel 416 Panel 417B Bending line 417C Bending line 417D Bending line 418 Panel, First Top Panel 418B Panel, First Beam Panel 418C Panel, second beam panel, floor panel 418D Panel, Third Beam Panel 420 Panel 421A Bending Line 421B Bending line 422A First End Panel 422B Second End Panel 440 Teeth or tabs, engaging teeth 441 Cut Line 443 Cut Line 445 cuts 446 Engaging teeth 447 Cut Line 510 Blank 512 Main Panel 514 Panel 516 Panel 518 Panel 520 Panel 521A Bending Line 521B Bending line 522A First End Panel 522B Second End Panel 540 Teeth or tabs, engaging teeth 543 Cut Line 545 Cut Line 610 Blank 612 Main Panel 614 Panel 616 Panel 618 Panel 620 Panel 621A Bending line 621B Bending line 622A First End Panel 622B Second End Panel 640 Engagement tab, engagement tooth 641 Cut Line 642 Engagement tab, engagement tooth 690 Carrier 710 Blank 712 Main panel, engagement panel, base panel 713 Bending line 714 Main panel, first side panel 715 Bending line 716 Main panel, second side panel 717 Bending Line 717B Bending line 717C Bending line 717D Bending line 718 Main Panel, 1st Top Panel 718B Main Panel, First Keel Panel 718C main panel, floor panel 718D Main panel, fixed panel 719 Bending Line 719B Bending line 720 main panel, second top panel, second side panel 720B Main Panel, Second Keel Panel 740 Engagement tab or tooth, first engagement tab 741 Bending Line 742 Engagement tab or tooth, second engagement tab 743 Bending Line 760 Handle flap 761 Bending line 790 Carriers, Goods Carriers A1 aperture A2 aperture, second article receiving opening A3 Second Aperture A4 aperture A5 Third article receiving opening, article receiving aperture A6 aperture A7 Aperture, first opening or aperture A8 Aperture, second opening or aperture A9 aperture A10 Item receiving opening, aperture A11 aperture, first aperture A12 aperture, second aperture A13 aperture AH Head B Goods C Cap, Closure C C1 , C C2 Curved cutting line C E1 , C E2 Straight cut line F1 fold line F2 fold line F3 fold line F4 Fold line F5 Fold Line F6 Fold line F7 Fold Line F8 Fold Line G Gap or toothless area, cutout K A Aperture A10 part L Panel fixing device, panel locking device L1 First locking element L2 Second locking element R recess RC Third Locking Element RT1 Item Retaining Structure, First or Endmost Item Retaining Structure RT2 Item holding structure, second item holding structure S Shoulder part SE Cut lines, scalloped or serrated edges S A Aperture A10 part T tongue T A central part

Claims

1. An article carrier for engaging at least one article, comprising: the article carrier includes at least one upper panel and a lower panel spaced apart from the at least one upper panel; the at least one upper panel includes an upper article-receiving opening in the form of an aperture, and the lower panel includes a lower article-receiving opening; The upper and lower item receiving openings are arranged in vertical alignment and have respective peripheral edges configured and dimensioned to at least partially engage items at two vertically spaced heights.

2. the lower article-receiving opening takes the form of an article retaining structure defined in part by one or more engagement tabs; the one or more engagement tabs are stamped from and hingedly connected to the lower panel; the one or more engagement tabs are hingedly connected at their proximal ends to the lower panel by a hinged connection to define the periphery of the lower article receiving opening; the one or more engagement tabs include an engagement edge at a distal end thereof, the distal end facing the proximal end; 2. The article carrier of claim 1, wherein the one or more engagement tabs are configured and dimensioned so that at least a portion of the periphery of the lower article receiving opening abuts an article when the article is received in the article holding structure such that the one or more engagement tabs yield and press the article out of the plane of the lower panel.

3. 3. The article carrier of claim 2, wherein the article carrier engages the article at two vertically spaced heights above and below a protrusion of the article, the protrusion being supported by the engaging edges of the one or more engaging tabs such that the article is suspended from the engaging edges of the one or more engaging tabs.

4. The article carrier of claim 1 , wherein the upper article-receiving opening comprises an aperture having scalloped edges configured to form a tight fit around a generally upright wall of the article.

5. The article carrier of claim 1 , wherein the upper article-receiving opening includes an aperture having a serrated edge configured to form a tight fit around a generally upright wall of the article.

6. the at least one upper panel includes a first upper panel; the article carrier includes a keel structure extending between the first upper panel and the lower panel; the keel structure includes a first keel panel hingedly connected to the first upper panel by a first hinged connection, and a floor panel disposed in surface contact with the lower panel; The article carrier of claim 1 , wherein the first keel panel extends to and is hingedly connected to the floor panel.

7. 7. The article carrier of claim 6, wherein a portion of the keel structure defines a portion of a first tubular structure including the first upper panel and the first keel panel, and the first tubular structure includes the upper article receiving opening.

8. the at least one upper panel further comprises a second upper panel; the article carrier further includes a second tubular structure extending along the first tubular structure; the second tubular structure includes the second upper panel and a second keel panel; The article carrier of claim 7 , wherein the floor panel provides a portion of a spine connecting the first tubular structure and the second tubular structure together.

9. the upper article-receiving opening includes an aperture in the at least one upper panel that defines a non-linear edge; The article carrier of claim 1 , wherein the aperture is configured to form a tight fit around a generally upright wall of the article.

10. An article carrier for engaging at least one article, comprising: the article carrier includes a plurality of panels; the plurality of panels includes an engagement panel and a hinged panel hingedly connected to the engagement panel by a first hinged connection; the engagement panel includes at least one item retention structure; the at least one item holding structure includes an item receiving opening; the item receiving opening is at least partially defined by a plurality of engagement teeth punched from the engagement panel, the plurality of engagement teeth being hingedly connected to the engagement panel by second hinged connections so as to define at least a portion of a periphery of the item receiving opening; an article carrier, wherein the peripheral edge of the article receiving opening includes a toothless region, the toothless region being disposed adjacent to the first hinged connection, whereby the toothless region interrupts the first hinged connection.

11. The article carrier of claim 10 , wherein the toothless region is defined by a cut extending between each second hinged connection of two adjacent ones of the plurality of engagement teeth.

12. The article carrier of claim 10 , wherein the toothless region is defined by a cutout in the form of an aperture extending between two adjacent ones of the plurality of engagement teeth.

13. The article carrier of claim 12 , wherein the plurality of engagement teeth includes a larger tooth and a smaller tooth, the smaller tooth including the two adjacent engagement teeth of the plurality of engagement teeth.

14. The article carrier of claim 13 , wherein each of the two adjacent engagement teeth of the plurality of engagement teeth is adjacent by one of the larger teeth.

15. An article carrier for engaging at least one article, comprising: the article carrier includes at least one upper panel and an engagement panel spaced from the at least one upper panel; the engagement panel includes at least one item retention structure including an item receiving opening at least partially defined by a plurality of engagement teeth punched from the engagement panel; the engagement teeth are hingedly connected to the engagement panel to define at least a portion of a periphery of the article-receiving opening; the periphery of the article-receiving opening includes a toothless area; the article carrier further includes a keel structure extending between the at least one upper panel and the engagement panel; the keel structure includes a first keel panel and a floor panel, the first keel panel hingedly connected to the at least one upper panel; the floor panel is hingedly connected to the first keel panel along one of its first and second opposite sides; The toothless region of the at least one item retention structure is positioned proximate to a portion of one of the first and second opposing sides of the floor panel.

16. The article carrier of claim 15 , wherein the toothless area is defined by a cut or opening extending between two adjacent ones of the engagement teeth.

17. the first keel panel is hingedly connected to a first side of the floor panel; the toothless region of the at least one item retention structure is positioned proximate to a portion of the first side of the floor panel; 16. The article carrier of claim 15, wherein the first keel panel includes an engagement element for engaging at least one article, whereby the toothless region facilitates engagement of the engagement element with the at least one article.

18. the keel structure further includes a second keel panel hingedly connected to the floor panel; the first keel panel is hingedly connected to a first side of the floor panel, and the second keel panel is hingedly connected to a second side of the floor panel; 16. The article carrier of claim 15, wherein the toothless region of the at least one article retention structure is positioned adjacent to a portion of the second side of the floor panel, and the second keel panel includes a free end edge configured to engage the at least one article.

19. 16. The article carrier of claim 15, wherein the at least one article holding structure includes a first article holding structure and a second article holding structure, the peripheral edge of the article receiving opening of each of the first article holding structure and the second article holding structure includes a toothless area, and the toothless area of ​​the first article holding structure is disposed adjacent to the toothless area of ​​the second article holding structure.

20. An article carrier including a pair of spaced apart upper and lower panels, an access opening defined in the upper panel for accessing the handle opening in the lower panel; an article carrier, wherein at least two panels extend at least partially between the upper panel and the lower panel, whereby the at least two panels provide an inner surface of a structure that extends at least partially between the access opening and the handle opening.

21. 21. The article carrier of claim 20, wherein the at least two panels are disposed adjacent to one another to define a predetermined angle between the at least two panels.

22. 21. The article carrier of claim 20, wherein the at least two panels include three panels that together provide the inner surface of the structure, and two of the three panels each extend entirely between the upper panel and the lower panel.

23. 21. The article carrier of claim 20, wherein the at least two panels include four panels that together provide the inner surface of the structure, and three of the four panels each extend entirely between the upper panel and the lower panel.

Images