Article carriers and blanks for article carriers

Abstract

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a handle structure, an article carrier for packaging multiple articles, and a blank for forming the handle structure or the article carrier. The article carrier includes a primary panel having the handle structure. The primary panel includes at least two article retention structures for engaging respective articles. Each of the at least two article retention structures includes an opening in the primary panel. The opening has or is defined by a plurality of engagement teeth formed from the primary panel. The first article retention structure includes a first engagement tooth extending from its proximal end to its distal end in a first direction. The second article retention structure is disposed adjacent to the first article retention structure and includes a second engagement tooth extending from its proximal end to its distal end in a second direction away from the first engagement tooth. The handle structure includes a handle opening disposed between the proximal ends of the first and second engagement teeth.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to handle structures, carriers, and blanks for forming carriers. More specifically, but not exclusively, the present invention relates to top-gripping style carriers and to providing a carrying handle for transporting one, two, or more items. [Background technology]

[0002] In the packaging art, it is known to provide article carriers or cartons for carrying multiple articles. Cartons are well known in the art and are useful for allowing consumers to transport, store, and access groups of articles for consumption. Due to cost and environmental considerations, such cartons or carriers should be formed from as little material as possible and minimize material waste as the carton or carrier is formed. An additional consideration is the strength and suitability of the carton to hold and transport heavy articles. It is desirable for the contents of the carton to not move around within the carton. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] It is an object of the present invention to provide a carrier with a carrying handle so that more than one item can be transported.

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

[0005] An aspect of the present invention provides an article carrier for packaging a plurality of articles. The article carrier includes a primary panel including a handle structure. The primary panel includes at least two article retention structures for engaging respective articles to provide an upper-grip article carrier. Each of the at least two article retention structures includes an article receiving opening and a plurality of engagement tabs punched from and hingedly connected to the primary panel. A first of the at least two article retention structures includes a first engagement tooth defined in part by a first pair of notches. A first hinge connection between the first engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the first pair of notches. A second of the at least two article retention structures includes a second engagement tooth defined in part by a second pair of notches. A second hinge connection between the second engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the second pair of notches. The second engagement tooth is hinged opposite the first engagement tooth, and the first engagement tooth and the second engagement tooth are disposed transverse to the longitudinal axis of the primary panel. The handle structure includes a handle opening disposed at least in part between the first hinge connection and the second hinge connection.

[0006] Optionally, the handle opening is centered between the first hinge link and the second hinge link.

[0007] Optionally, the outer edge of the first cut of the first pair of cuts and the outer edge of the first cut of the second pair of cuts define a first boundary line, the outer edge of the second cut of the first pair of cuts and the outer edge of the second cut of the second pair of cuts define a second boundary line, the first boundary line and the second boundary line define an area of ​​the primary panel therebetween, and the center of the handle opening is located with the area of ​​the primary panel defined by the first boundary line and the second boundary line.

[0008] Optionally, the first boundary line is parallel to the second boundary line.

[0009] Optionally, a notional line collinear with each of the first pair of cuts and the second pair of cuts defines a region of the primary panel between the first hinge connection and the second hinge connection, and the handle opening is located within said region of the primary panel.

[0010] Optionally, the notional lines define a parallelogram.

[0011] Optionally, the centres of each of the at least two pairs of item retaining structures define a notional line, and the centre of the handle opening is located on the notional line.

[0012] Optionally, the notional line extends perpendicular to the side edge of the primary panel.

[0013] Optionally, the side edges of the primary panel are defined by hinge connections between the primary panel and the side panels.

[0014] Optionally, the notional line is equidistant between the first and second boundary lines and parallel to the first and second boundary lines.

[0015] Optionally, the article carrier comprises a pair of opposing side panels hingedly connected to the primary panel.

[0016] Another aspect of the present invention provides an article carrier for packaging a plurality of articles. The article carrier includes a primary panel including a handle structure. The primary panel includes at least one pair of article retention structures for engaging respective articles to provide an upper-handle article carrier. Each of the at least one pair of article retention structures includes an article receiving opening and a plurality of engagement tabs punched from and hingedly connected to the primary panel. A first article retention structure of the at least one pair of article retention structures includes a first engagement tooth defined in part by a first pair of incisions. A first hinge connection between the first engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the first pair of incisions. A second article retention structure of the at least one pair of article retention structures includes a second engagement tooth defined in part by a second pair of incisions. A second hinge connection between the second engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the second pair of incisions. The second engagement tooth is hinged opposite the first engagement tooth on an opposite side of the longitudinal axis of the primary panel, and the handle structure includes a handle opening centered between the first hinge link and the second hinge link.

[0017] Yet another aspect of the present invention provides an article carrier for packaging a plurality of articles. The article carrier includes a primary panel including a handle structure. The primary panel includes a first pair of article retention structures and a second pair of article retention structures for engaging respective articles to provide an upper-grip article carrier. Each of the article retention structures includes an article receiving opening and a plurality of engagement tabs punched from and hingedly connected to the primary panel. A first article retention structure of the first pair of article retention structures includes a first engagement tooth defined in part by a first pair of incisions. A first hinge connection between the first engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the first pair of incisions. A second article retention structure of the first pair of article retention structures includes a second engagement tooth defined in part by a second pair of incisions. A second hinge connection between the second engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the second pair of incisions. The second engagement tooth is hinged opposite the first engagement tooth on an opposite side of the longitudinal axis of the primary panel. The handle structure includes a first handle opening centered between the first hinge connection and the second hinge connection. A first item retention structure of the second pair of item retention structures includes a third engagement tooth defined in part by a third pair of cuts. A third hinge connection between the third engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the third pair of cuts. A second item retention structure of the second pair of item retention structures includes a fourth engagement tooth defined in part by a fourth pair of cuts. A fourth hinge connection between the fourth engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the fourth pair of cuts. The fourth engagement tooth is hinged opposite the third engagement tooth on an opposite side of the longitudinal axis of the primary panel. The handle structure includes a second handle opening centered between the third hinge link and the fourth hinge link.

[0018] Yet another aspect of the present invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank includes a primary panel including a handle structure. The primary panel includes at least two article retention structures for engaging respective articles to form an upper-gripping article carrier. Each of the at least two article retention structures includes an article receiving opening and a plurality of engagement tabs punched from and hingedly connected to the primary panel. A first of the at least two article retention structures includes a first engagement tooth defined in part by a first pair of notches. A first hinge connection between the first engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the first pair of notches. A second of the at least two article retention structures includes a second engagement tooth defined in part by a second pair of notches. A second hinge connection between the second engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the second pair of notches. The second engagement tooth is hinged opposite the first engagement tooth, and the first engagement tooth and the second engagement tooth are disposed transverse to the longitudinal axis of the primary panel. The handle structure includes a handle opening disposed at least in part between the first hinge connection and the second hinge connection.

[0019] A further aspect of the present invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank includes a primary panel including a handle structure. The primary panel includes at least one pair of article retention structures for engaging respective articles to form an upper grip article carrier. Each of the at least one pair of article retention structures includes an article receiving opening and a plurality of engagement tabs punched from and hingedly connected to the primary panel. A first article retention structure of the at least one pair of article retention structures includes a first engagement tooth defined in part by a first pair of incisions. A first hinge connection between the first engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the first pair of incisions. A second article retention structure of the at least one pair of article retention structures includes a second engagement tooth defined in part by a second pair of incisions. A second hinge connection between the second engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the second pair of incisions. The second engagement tooth is hinged opposite the first engagement tooth on an opposite side of the longitudinal axis of the primary panel, and the handle structure includes a handle opening centered between the first hinge link and the second hinge link.

[0020] A still further aspect of the present invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank includes a primary panel including a handle structure. The primary panel includes a first pair of article retention structures and a second pair of article retention structures for engaging respective articles to form an upper grip article carrier. Each of the article retention structures includes an article receiving opening and a plurality of engagement tabs punched from and hingedly connected to the primary panel. A first article retention structure of the first pair of article retention structures includes a first engagement tooth defined in part by a first pair of notches. A first hinge connection between the first engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the first pair of notches. A second article retention structure of the first pair of article retention structures includes a second engagement tooth defined in part by a second pair of notches. A second hinge connection between the second engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the second pair of notches. The second engagement tooth is hinged opposite the first engagement tooth on an opposite side of the longitudinal axis of the primary panel. The handle structure includes a first handle opening centered between the first hinge connection and the second hinge connection. A first item retention structure of the second pair of item retention structures includes a third engagement tooth defined in part by a third pair of cuts. A third hinge connection between the third engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the third pair of cuts. A second item retention structure of the second pair of item retention structures includes a fourth engagement tooth defined in part by a fourth pair of cuts. A fourth hinge connection between the fourth engagement tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the fourth pair of cuts. The fourth engagement tooth is hinged opposite the third engagement tooth on an opposite side of the longitudinal axis of the primary panel. The handle structure includes a second handle opening centered between the third hinge link and the fourth hinge link.

[0021] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the specific embodiments illustrated in the drawings and described in detail below.

[0022] Within the scope of this application, it is envisioned or intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features, and alternatives presented in the preceding paragraphs, claims, and / or in the following description and drawings may be considered or interpreted independently or in any combination thereof.

[0023] Features or elements described in connection with or with respect to one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments, unless there is an incompatibility of features. One or more features or elements from one embodiment may be incorporated into or combined with any of the other embodiments disclosed herein, and the features or elements extracted from said one embodiment may be included in addition to or in place of one or more features or elements of said other embodiments.

[0024] 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.

[0025] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0026] [Figure 1] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of a blank for forming a carrier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of a blank for forming a carrier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a top plan view of a blank for forming a carrier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 4] 2 is a perspective view of a carton formed from the blank of FIG. 1. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0027] Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of handle structures, packages, blanks, and cartons are disclosed herein. It is understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of how certain aspects of the present invention may be practiced and do not represent a comprehensive listing of all ways in which the present invention may be embodied. As used herein, the word "exemplary" is used broadly to refer to embodiments that serve as illustrations, specimens, models, or patterns. Indeed, it is understood that the handle structures, packages, blanks, and cartons described herein may 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 individual components. Well-known components, materials, or methods are not necessarily described in great detail to avoid obscuring the present disclosure. Any specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not intended as limitations, but merely as representative principles for the claims and to teach those skilled in the art to variously use the present invention.

[0028] Referring to Figure 1, there is shown a plan view of a blank 10 from which a carton or carrier 90, as shown in Figure 4, can be formed for carrying a group of primary products, such as, but not limited to, bottles, hereafter referred to as articles. The blank 10 forms a secondary packaging or handle structure for packaging at least one primary product container or package.

[0029] In the embodiments detailed herein, the terms "carton" and "carrier" refer to a container 90 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 intended that the teachings of the present invention are applicable to a variety of product containers, which may or may not be tapered and / or cylindrical. Other exemplary containers include bottles (e.g., metal, glass, or plastic bottles), cans (e.g., aluminum cans), tin cans, pouches, packets, etc.

[0030] The blank 10 is formed from a sheet of suitable substrate. As used herein, it is understood that the term "suitable substrate" includes all forms of foldable sheet material, such as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, etc. It should be recognized that one or more blanks may be used, as appropriate, to provide, for example, a carrier structure, as described in more detail below.

[0031] The packaging structures or cartons 90 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 in two or more layers to help improve the tear resistance of the package. Typically, one surface of the sheet material can have different properties than the other surface. For example, the surface of the sheet material facing the outside of the finished package can be smooth, specifically, or can have a coating, such as a clay coating or other surface treatment, to provide good printability. Meanwhile, the surface of the sheet material facing the inside can be provided with a coating, layer, treatment, or otherwise prepared to provide properties such as tear resistance, good adhesive ability, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties.

[0032] In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 10 is configured to form a carton or carrier 90 for packaging an illustrated arrangement of illustrated articles. In the illustrated embodiment, the arrangement is an m×n matrix or array having two rows (m=2) and two columns (n=2), where two rows of two articles are provided, and the articles may be 0.5 L bottles. Alternatively, the blank 10 can be configured to form carriers for packaging other types, numbers, and sizes of articles and / or carriers for packaging articles in different arrangements or configurations, such as, but not limited to, a fully enclosed carton or a wrap-around carrier, where the articles may be cups, pouches, pots, or cans.

[0033] 1, there is shown a blank 10 for forming a carton 90 (see FIG. 4) according to a first embodiment. The blank 10 comprises a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16 arranged in linear succession hinged one to the next by respective fold lines 13, 15.

[0034] The plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16 form an upper engaging carrier 90. The plurality of panels 12, 14, 16 comprises a first panel 12, a second panel 14, and a third panel 16. The second panel 14 is hingedly connected to the first panel 12 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 13. The third panel 16 is hingedly connected to the first panel 12 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 15. The fold lines 13, 15 are located along opposite side edges of the first panel 12.

[0035] The first panel 12 forms the top or primary engagement panel 12 from which the item B is suspended. The second panel 14 and the third panel 16 form the opposing side or shoulder panels.

[0036] The primary panel 12 includes a plurality of item retention structures RT, optionally four item retention structures RT arranged in a 2x2 matrix or array. Each of the item retention structures RT includes an opening A1. The opening A1 may optionally be octagonal in shape.

[0037] The item retaining structure RT includes a toothed region defined by a plurality of teeth or tabs 40, 42, 50 surrounding an opening A1.

[0038] Each of the item retaining structures RT is substantially identical in construction and will be described in further detail with reference to one of the item retaining structures RT shown in FIG.

[0039] The article retaining structure RT includes a plurality of teeth or engagement tabs 40, 42, 50 punched from or defined within the primary panel 12. The plurality of teeth or engagement tabs 40, 42, 50 are disposed about and surround the opening A1. Together with the opening A1, the plurality of teeth or engagement tabs 40, 42, 50 form an article receiving opening for receiving a portion of an article B to be packaged.

[0040] The plurality of teeth or engagement tabs 40, 42, 50 comprises a primary tooth or tab 50. The primary tooth 50 extends from and is integral with one of the second panel 14 or the third panel 16. The primary tooth 50 disrupts the fold lines 13, 15 between the primary panel 12 and a respective one of the side panels 14, 16.

[0041] A secondary tooth 40 is provided on each side of the primary tooth 50. Each secondary tooth 40 is stamped from or defined within the primary panel 12 and is hingedly connected to the primary panel 12 by a hinge connection, which may be defined at least in part by a linear cut 41. Each secondary tooth 40 is separated from the primary tooth 50 by a cut 47. Each cut 47 extends radially outward from the opening A1, optionally from a corner or apex of the opening A1. The cut 47 terminates at a respective one of the fold lines 13, 15 between the primary panel 12 and the respective side panel 14, 16.

[0042] The plurality of teeth or engagement tabs 40, 42, 50 includes five tertiary teeth or tabs 42 disposed about the remainder of the opening A1. One of the tertiary teeth or tabs 42 is disposed substantially opposite the primary tooth 50. Each of the tertiary teeth 42 is stamped from or defined within the primary panel 12 and is hingedly connected to the primary panel 12 by a hinge connection. The hinge connection may be defined at least in part by a non-linear or arcuate cut 43. Each tertiary tooth 42 is separated from an adjacent tooth 40, 42 by a cut 45. Each cut 45 extends radially outward from the opening A1, optionally from a corner or apex of the opening A1.

[0043] The openings A1 define the engagement edges E of the teeth or engagement tabs 40, 42, 50 that are located opposite the hinged edges or proximal ends of the teeth or engagement tabs 40, 42, 50, respectively.

[0044] The blank 10 includes a handle structure H. The handle structure H takes the form of a finger opening in the primary panel 12. The primary panel 12 may include a pair of finger openings.

[0045] Each finger opening is defined at least in part by one or more handle flaps 70, 72. The illustrated embodiment includes a pair of handle flaps 70, 72 separated from one another by a cut 75. The cut 75 can bisect the finger opening. Each of the pair of handle flaps 70, 72 is hinged to the primary panel 12 by a fold line 71, 73, respectively. The first handle flap 70 is hinged to the primary panel 12 by a first fold line 71, and the second handle flap 72 is hinged to the first panel 12 by a second fold line 73. The second fold line 73 is positioned to extend beyond the first fold line 71. The first fold line 71 and the second fold line 73 can define a "V" shape bisected by the cut 75.

[0046] Each of the pair of handle flaps 70, 72 may include a predetermined fold spaced from and generally parallel to its respective hinge connection to the primary panel 12. The predetermined fold may be provided by any suitable feature, such as, but not limited to, a fold line, a perforation line, or a cut.

[0047] Referring now to FIG. 2, the handle opening is centered at C e Center C e is located at the midpoint of a notional line that longitudinally bisects the handle opening.

[0048] Each handle opening is disposed between a pair of adjacent article retaining structures RT. Optionally, the handle opening is disposed between one of the tertiary teeth 42 of one of the pair of adjacent article retaining structures RT (i.e., the "first adjacent tooth") and one of the tertiary teeth 42 of the other of the pair of adjacent article retaining structures RT (i.e., the "second adjacent tooth"). Each of the first and second adjacent teeth 42 disposed on opposite sides of the handle opening is disposed diagonally opposite a respective one of the primary teeth 50 of the pair of adjacent article retaining structures RT. Optionally, the center C of the handle opening is e are disposed between the proximal ends of the first and second adjacent teeth 42 of pairs of adjacent article retaining structures RT.

[0049] The first and second adjacent teeth 42 define an area or region "A" extending across the primary panel 12. More specifically, region "A" is defined by a pair of notional boundary lines BL1, BL2. The first notional boundary line BL1 passes through the outer end of a first radially extending cut 45 defining one of the opposing side edges of the first adjacent tooth 42 and the outer end of a first radially extending cut 45 defining one of the opposing side edges of the second adjacent tooth 42. The second notional boundary line BL2 passes through the outer end of a second radially extending cut 45 defining the other of the opposing side edges of the first adjacent tooth 42 and the outer end of a second radially extending cut 45 defining the other of the opposing side edges of the second adjacent tooth 42.

[0050] Each of the discontinuities 45, 47 in each of the item retention structures RT extends radially outward from the respective opening A1 to the primary panel 12 and terminates at a respective outer edge.

[0051] Each of the pair of notional boundary lines BL1, BL2 is perpendicular to the side edges of the primary panel 12 defined by the fold lines 13, 15.

[0052] The center C of each pair of adjacent article holding structures RT A A notional horizontal line NL1 passing through is perpendicular to the side edges of the primary panel 12. The notional horizontal line NL1 is located in an area or region "A" defined between a pair of notional boundaries BL1, BL2.

[0053] Center of handle opening C e is located in area or region "A".

[0054] Center of handle opening C e is the center C of each pair of adjacent article holding structures RT A It can be located on a notional horizontal line NL1 passing through

[0055] The notional horizontal line NL1 bisects the area "A." In other words, the notional horizontal line NL1 is equidistant from each of the pair of boundary lines BL1, BL2.

[0056] Referring now to Figure 3, each handle opening is located in a respective portion P of primary panel 12 defined between a respective pair of adjacent item retaining structures RT. Each portion P of primary panel 12 is defined by a notional extension of first and second adjacent tooth notches 45 located on opposite sides of the handle opening. Portion P of primary panel 12 is hexagonal. Each handle opening is located within a respective hexagonal region P of primary panel 12, and the notional extension of first and second adjacent tooth notches 45 does not pass through the respective handle opening.

[0057] The blank 10 can be folded to form a package 90 as shown in FIG.

[0058] 2, the article carrier 90 can be formed by a series of successive folding operations. The folding process is not limited to the following and may be changed according to the requirements of individual manufacturing.

[0059] The blank 10 is lowered onto the group of items B, with each item B being positioned in vertical alignment with a respective one of the item retaining structures RT. An item B is received by each of the item retaining structures RT. As item B is received, the engagement tabs 40, 42, 50 fold outwardly of the plane of the primary panel 12, causing the engagement tabs 40, 42, 50 to fold upwardly. As a result of the first tab 50 folding upwardly, the side panels 14, 16 fold downwardly around the sides or shoulders of item B.

[0060] The engagement tabs 40, 42, 50 of each article retention structure engage the respective article B below a flange or other suitable protrusion at an upper portion (e.g., neck) of the article B. The protrusion may be provided by a cap or end closure C of the article B, or may be provided separately below the end closure C (see FIG. 4) to enable the primary panel 12 to support and suspend the article B.

[0061] When carrier 90 is lifted by handle structure H, as shown in FIG. 4, which for illustrative purposes shows carrier 90 suspended in test fixture U, primary panel 12 can bend, deform, or fold inward in the area between each handle opening and adjacent edge EE1, EE2, as indicated by phantom line (dotted line) FL in FIG. 2.

[0062] It has been found that when the imaginary line FL increases sufficiently in length, i.e., when the distance between the handle opening and the adjacent edges EE1, EE2 increases, the articles B have a greater tendency to spread or move away from each other at their bases.

[0063] It has also been found that when the imaginary line FL is sufficiently reduced in length, i.e., when the distance between the handle opening and the adjacent edges EE1, EE2 becomes smaller, the security of the items B in the carrier 90 also decreases, to the point where the items B may separate or be unintentionally disengaged from the carrier 90.

[0064] The optimum location for the handle opening has been found to be within area A shown in Figure 2 and / or within area P shown in Figure 3, i.e., the handle opening is located in an area of ​​the primary panel 12 that is closer to each respective pair of adjacent article retaining structures RT. e and the center C of each pair of adjacent article holding structures RT. A The distance between is reduced or minimized.

[0065] The present disclosure provides an article carrier 90 comprising a primary panel 12 including a handle structure H. The primary panel 12 includes at least two article retaining structures RT for engaging respective articles to provide the upper-gripping article carrier 90. Each of the at least two article retaining structures RT has a plurality of engagement tabs 40, 42, 50 punched from and hingedly connected to the primary panel 12, or includes an article-receiving opening defined by the engagement tabs 40, 42, 50. A first of the at least two article retaining structures RT includes a first engagement tooth 42 defined in part by a first pair of cuts 45. A proximal end of the first engagement tooth 42 may be defined by a first hinge connection between the first engagement tooth 42 and the primary panel 12. Such hinge connection can extend at least partially between the outer ends of the first pair of cuts 45. A second of the at least two article retaining structures RT includes a second engagement tooth 42 defined in part by a second pair of gaps 45. A proximal end of the second engagement tooth 42 may be defined by a second hinge connection between the second engagement tooth 42 and the primary panel 12. Such hinge connection of the second engagement tooth 42 may extend at least partially between the outer ends of the second pair of gaps 45. The second engagement tooth 42 is hinged opposite the first engagement tooth 42, and the first and second engagement tooth 42 are aligned relative to the central longitudinal axis L of the primary panel 12. a The handle structure H is disposed beside the proximal end of the first adjacent tooth 42 and the proximal end of the second adjacent tooth 42 at a center C e The handle opening has a handle hole in which the

[0066] The outer edge of the first of the first pair of cuts 45 and the outer edge of the first of the second pair of cuts 45 define a first notional boundary line BL1. The outer edge of the second of the first pair of cuts 45 and the outer edge of the second of the second pair of cuts 45 define a second notional boundary line BL2. The first notional boundary line BL1 and the second notional boundary line BL2 define an area of ​​primary panel 12 therebetween, and the center of the handle opening is located in the area of ​​primary panel 12 defined by the first notional boundary line BL1 and the second notional boundary line BL2. The first notional boundary line BL1 is parallel to the second notional boundary line BL2.

[0067] A notional line FL1, FL2 that is collinear with each of the first pair of cuts 45 and the second pair of cuts 45 defines an area "G" of the primary panel 12 between the distal ends d1, d2 of the first and second adjacent teeth 42, the handle opening being located within said area "G" of the primary panel 12. The notional lines FL1, FL2 define at least a portion of a parallelogram or a hexagon.

[0068] The center C of each pair of at least two article holding structures RT A defines a notional horizontal line NL1. The center of the handle opening may be located on the notional horizontal line NL1. The notional horizontal line NL1 may extend perpendicular to the side edges of the primary panel 12. The side edges of the primary panel 12 may be defined by hinge connections between the primary panel 12 and the side panels 14, 16.

[0069] The conceptual horizontal line NL1 may be equidistant from the first conceptual boundary line BL1 and the second conceptual boundary line BL2, and may be parallel to the conceptual boundary lines BL1 and BL2.

[0070] The article carrier 90 may include a pair of opposing side panels 14, 16 hingedly connected to the primary panel 12. Each side panel 14, 16 has a free edge that is opposite a hinged edge defined by the hinge connection of that side panel to the primary panel 12.

[0071] The present disclosure provides an article carrier 90 comprising a primary panel 12 including a handle structure H. The primary panel 12 includes at least one pair of article retaining structures RT for engaging respective articles to provide the upper-gripping article carrier 90. Each of the at least one pair of article retaining structures RT has a plurality of engagement tabs 40, 42, 50 punched from and hingedly connected to the primary panel 12, or includes an article-receiving opening defined by the engagement tabs 40, 42, 50. A first of the at least one pair of article retaining structures RT includes a first engagement tooth 42 that may be defined in part by a first pair of cuts 45. The first engagement tooth 42 has a first proximal end. The first proximal end may be defined by a first hinge connection between the first engagement tooth 42 and the primary panel 12. The first hinge connection may extend between the outer ends of the first pair of cuts 45. A second of the at least one pair of article retaining structures RT includes a second engagement tooth 42 defined in part by a second pair of cuts 45. The second engagement tooth 42 has a second proximal end that may be defined by a second hinge connection between the second engagement tooth 42 and the primary panel 12. The second hinge connection may extend between the outer ends of the second pair of cuts 45. The second engagement tooth 42 is aligned with the central longitudinal axis L of the primary panel 12. a on opposite sides of the first engagement tooth 42. The handle structure H includes a handle opening disposed at least partially between a first proximal end of the first adjacent tooth and a second proximal end of the second adjacent tooth.

[0072] The present disclosure also provides an article carrier 90 comprising a primary panel 12 including a handle structure H. The primary panel 12 comprises a first pair of article retaining structures RT and a second pair of article retaining structures RT for engaging respective articles B to provide the upper-gripping article carrier 90. Each of the article retaining structures RT has a plurality of engagement tabs 40, 42, 50 punched from and hingedly connected to the primary panel 12, or comprises an article receiving opening defined by the engagement tabs 40, 42, 50. A first of the first pair of article retaining structures RT includes a first engagement tooth 42 defined in part by a first pair of cuts 45. The first engagement tooth 42 has a proximal end that may be defined by a first hinge connection between the first engagement tooth 42 and the primary panel 12. The first hinge connection may extend between the outer ends of the first pair of cuts 45. A second of the first pair of article retaining structures RT includes a second engagement tooth 42 defined in part by a second pair of cuts 45. The second engagement tooth has a second proximal end that may be defined by a second hinge connection between the second engagement tooth 42 and the primary panel 12. The second hinge connection may extend between the outer ends of the second pair of cuts 45. The second engagement tooth 42 is aligned with the central longitudinal axis L of the primary panel 12. a on an opposing side of the primary panel 12, opposite the first engagement tooth 42. The handle structure H includes a first handle opening disposed at least in part between the first hinge connection and the second hinge connection. A first of the second pair of item retaining structures RT includes a third engagement tooth 42 defined in part by a third pair of cuts. The third engagement tooth 42 has a third proximal end that may be defined by a third hinge connection between the third engagement tooth 42 and the primary panel 12. The third hinge connection may extend between the outer ends of the third pair of cuts. A second of the second pair of item retaining structures RT includes a fourth engagement tooth 42 defined in part by a fourth pair of cuts. The fourth engagement tooth 42 has a fourth proximal end that may be defined by a fourth hinge connection between the fourth engagement tooth 42 and the primary panel 12. A fourth hinge connection may extend between the outer ends of the fourth pair of cuts. The fourth engagement tooth 42 may be aligned with the central longitudinal axis L of the primary panel 12. aon the opposite side of the third engagement tooth 42. The handle structure H includes a second handle opening disposed at least partially between the third hinge link and the fourth hinge link.

[0073] It will be understood that various modifications can be made within the scope of the present invention. For example, the size and shape of the panels and openings may be adjusted to accommodate items of different sizes or shapes.

[0074] It will be appreciated that, as used herein, references to directions such as "top," "bottom," "base," "front," "rear," "edge," "side," "inward," "outward," "above," and "below" do not necessarily limit each panel to such orientation, but may merely serve to distinguish these panels from one another.

[0075] As used herein, the terms "hinge" and "fold line" refer to any manner of line that defines a hinge feature in a blank, facilitates folding portions of the blank relative to one another, or otherwise indicates the optimal location for folding a panel on the blank. Any reference to a "hinge" should not necessarily be construed as referring only to a single fold line; in fact, a hinge may be formed from two or more fold lines, each of which may be either straight or curved in shape. Straight fold lines may be positioned parallel to one another when forming a hinge connection, or may be slightly oblique relative to one another. Curved fold lines may intersect with one another when forming a hinge connection to define a molded panel within the area encompassed by the curved fold line. A typical example of such a hinge connection may include a pair of arched or arcuate fold lines that intersect at two points to define an elliptical panel therebetween. The hinge connection may be formed from one or more straight fold lines and one or more curved fold lines. A typical example of such a hinge connection may comprise a combination of straight fold lines and arched or bowed fold lines that intersect at two points to define a half-moon shaped panel therebetween.

[0076] As used herein, the term "fold line" may refer to one of the following: a perforation line, an embossed line, a debossed line, a perforation line, a short slit line, a half-cut line, a single half-cut, an interrupted cut, a line of aligned slits, a perforation line, and any combination of these options.

[0077] It should be understood that the hinge connections and fold lines may each include elements formed in the substrate of the blank, including perforations, perforation lines, short slit lines, half-cut lines, single half-cuts, cuts, interrupted cuts, slits, perforations, any combination thereof, etc. The elements may be sized and arranged to provide the desired functionality. For example, perforation lines may be sized or designed with a degree of weakness to define fold lines, cut lines, or both. Perforation lines may be designed to facilitate folding while resisting tearing, to facilitate folding while facilitating tearing with greater effort, or to facilitate tearing with less effort.

[0078] As used herein, the phrase "in registration with" refers to the alignment of two or more elements in an assembled carton, such as an opening formed in a first of two overlapping panels and a second opening formed in a second of the two overlapping panels. Elements that are aligned with each other may be aligned with each other in the thickness direction of the overlapping panels. For example, when an opening in a first panel is "aligned" with a second opening in a second panel that is placed in an overlapping arrangement with the first panel, an edge of the opening may extend along at least a portion of the edge of the second opening and be aligned with the second opening in the thickness direction of the first and second panels. [Explanation of symbols]

[0079] 10 blank 12 First panel, upper engagement panel, primary engagement panel 14 Second panel, side panel, shoulder panel 16 Third panel, side panel, shoulder panel 13, 15 fold lines 40 Secondary teeth, engagement tab 41 Break in a Line 42 Tertiary teeth, engagement tabs, engagement teeth 43 Non-linear or arcuate breaks 45, 47 cuts 50 Primary teeth, engagement tabs 70 First Handle Flap 71 First fold line 72 Second Handle Flap 73 Second fold line 75 Break 90 Upper engaging carrier, container, carton, upper gripping article carrier, package A area, area A1 opening B Goods BL1 First conceptual boundary BL2 Second conceptual boundary C Cap, end closure C A Center of the Item Retention Structure RT C e Center of handle opening d1, d2: distal end of adjacent tooth 42 E Engagement edge EE1, EE2 edge FL Virtual Line FL1, FL2 conceptual lines H handle structure L a Longitudinal central axis NL1 Conceptual horizontal line P Part of primary panel 12 RT article holding structure U test fixture

Claims

1. 1. An article carrier blank for packaging a plurality of articles, the blank comprising: a primary panel having a handle structure; the primary panel having at least two article retention structures for engaging respective articles; each of the at least two article retention structures having an opening in the primary panel and a plurality of engagement teeth formed from and hingedly connected to the primary panel; a first of the at least two article retention structures having a first engagement tooth extending in a first direction from a proximal end thereof to a distal end thereof; a second of the at least two article retention structures having a second engagement tooth disposed adjacent to the first of the at least two article retention structures and extending in a second direction from a proximal end thereof to a distal end thereof away from the first engagement tooth; and the handle structure having a first handle opening disposed between the proximal end of the first engagement tooth and the proximal end of the second engagement tooth.

2. The blank of claim 1 , wherein the handle opening is centered between the proximal end of the first engagement tooth and the proximal end of the second engagement tooth.

3. 2. The blank of claim 1, wherein the first engagement tooth is defined in part by a first pair of opposing side edges thereof and the second engagement tooth is defined in part by a second pair of opposing side edges thereof, an outer edge of a first side edge of the first pair of opposing side edges and an outer edge of a first side edge of the second pair of opposing side edges define a first notional boundary line, an outer edge of a second side edge of the first pair of opposing side edges and an outer edge of a second side edge of the second pair of opposing side edges define a second notional boundary line, the first notional boundary line and the second notional boundary line define an area of ​​the primary panel therebetween, and a center of the handle opening is located in the area of ​​the primary panel defined by the first notional boundary line and the second notional boundary line.

4. 4. The blank of claim 3, wherein the first notional boundary line is parallel to the second notional boundary line.

5. 2. The blank of claim 1, wherein the first engagement tooth is defined in part by a first pair of opposing side edges thereof and the second engagement tooth is defined in part by a second pair of opposing side edges thereof, each of the first pair of side edges being linear and each of the second pair of side edges being linear, a notional line collinear with the first pair of side edges and the second pair of side edges defines a region of the primary panel, the region extending between the distal end of the first engagement tooth and the distal end of the second engagement tooth, and the handle opening is disposed within the region of the primary panel.

6. The blank of claim 5 , wherein the notional lines define a parallelogram.

7. 2. The blank of claim 1, wherein a notional horizontal line extends between a center of the first of the at least two item holding structures and a center of the second of the at least two item holding structures, and the handle opening is located on the notional horizontal line.

8. The blank of claim 7 , wherein the notional line extends perpendicular to a side edge of the primary panel.

9. The blank of claim 8 , wherein the side edges of the primary panel are defined by hinge connections between the primary panel and side panels.

10. 4. The blank of claim 3, wherein a notional line extends between a center of the first item holding structure of the at least two item holding structures and a center of the second item holding structure of the at least two item holding structures, the center of the handle opening is located on the notional line, the notional line is equidistant between the first notional boundary line and the second notional boundary line, and is parallel to the first notional boundary line and the second notional boundary line.

11. The blank of claim 1 , wherein the article carrier comprises a pair of opposing side panels hingedly connected to the primary panel.

12. 2. The blank of claim 1, wherein a third of the at least two article retaining structures comprises a third engagement tooth extending from its proximal end to its distal end in the first direction, a fourth of the at least two article retaining structures is disposed adjacent to the third of the at least two article retaining structures, and the fourth of the at least two article retaining structures comprises a fourth engagement tooth extending from its proximal end to its distal end in the second direction away from the third engagement tooth, and the handle structure further comprises a second handle opening disposed at least in part between the proximal end of the third engagement tooth and the proximal end of the fourth engagement tooth.

13. 1. An article carrier for packaging a plurality of articles, comprising: a primary panel having a handle structure; the primary panel having at least two article retention structures for engaging respective articles; each of the at least two article retention structures having an opening in the primary panel and a plurality of engagement teeth formed from and hingedly connected to the primary panel; a first of the at least two article retention structures having a first engagement tooth extending in a first direction from a proximal end thereof to a distal end thereof; a second of the at least two article retention structures having a second engagement tooth disposed adjacent to the first of the at least two article retention structures and extending in a second direction from a proximal end thereof to a distal end thereof away from the first engagement tooth; and the handle structure having a handle opening disposed at least in part between the proximal end of the first engagement tooth and the proximal end of the second engagement tooth.

14. 14. The article carrier of claim 13, wherein a third of the at least two article retaining structures comprises a third engagement tooth extending from its proximal end to its distal end in the first direction, a fourth of the at least two article retaining structures is disposed adjacent to the third of the at least two article retaining structures, and the fourth of the at least two article retaining structures comprises a fourth engagement tooth extending from its proximal end to its distal end in the second direction away from the third engagement tooth, and the handle structure comprises a second handle opening disposed at least in part between the proximal end of the third engagement tooth and the proximal end of the fourth engagement tooth.

15. 4. The blank of claim 3, wherein the opposing side edges of the first pair are each defined by a cut line and the opposing side edges of the second pair are each defined by a cut line.

16. 16. The blank of claim 15, wherein the cuts defining the first pair of opposing side edges extend radially outward from the opening of the first item holding structure of the at least two item holding structures, and the cuts defining the second pair of opposing side edges extend radially outward from the opening of the second item holding structure of the at least two item holding structures.

17. 2. The blank of claim 1, wherein the first engagement tooth is hingedly connected to the primary panel at the proximal end thereof by a hinge connection and the second engagement tooth is hingedly connected to the primary panel at the proximal end thereof by a hinge connection.

18. 8. The blank of claim 7, wherein the first engagement tooth and the second engagement tooth are disposed on opposite sides of a central longitudinal axis of the primary panel, the central longitudinal axis being perpendicular to the notional horizontal line.

19. 8. The blank of claim 7, wherein the handle opening is centered on the notional horizontal line.

20. 4. The blank of claim 3, wherein the center of the handle opening is located at the midpoint of a notional line longitudinally bisecting the handle opening.

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