Goods carrier and its blank

Abstract

An upper engaging article carrier (90;190;690;790) for packaging at least one article is disclosed. The article carrier includes an upper main panel (14;114;312;120;220) and a lower main panel (24;124;316;112;212) spaced apart from the upper main panel (14;114;312;120;220). The lower main panel includes at least one article engaging structure (A5, A6;A5, A6;RT;RT;RT3). The upper main panel (14;114;312;120;220) includes handle access openings (A7;A7;A5;A7,A9) in the upper main panel, which provide a single access window accessible to at least two handle openings (H2, H2;H2, H2;H3, H3;RC, RC;RC, RC) in the lower main panel. The at least two handle openings provide a handle between them for transporting the goods carrier.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to article holding devices, article carriers, and blanks for forming them. More specifically, the present invention relates to, but is not limited to, top-grip type carriers having one or more openings for receiving and holding articles. [Background technology]

[0002] In the field of packaging, it is known to provide cartons for transporting multiple items. Cartons are well-known in the art and are useful for enabling consumers to transport, store, and access a group of items for consumption. Considering cost and the environment, such cartons or carriers should be formed from as little material as possible, minimizing waste of the materials used in their formation. Further considerations include the strength of the carton and its suitability for holding and transporting heavy items. It is desirable that the contents of the carton be secured within the carton.

[0003] It is well known to provide a top-grip type article carrier in which an opening is formed in a panel of the carrier and tabs are punched out from the panel and positioned around the opening. The tabs are displaced from the plane of the panel when an article is received in the opening and the tabs engage with the article substantially around the flange or lip of the article.

[0004] It is desirable that all tabs engage with the articles efficiently or effectively. It is also desirable to provide a shock-resistant carrier to protect the articles. [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0005] This invention aims to provide improvements in the field of cartons, which are typically formed from cardboard or the like. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A first aspect of the present invention provides an upper engagement type article carrier for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises an engagement board having a partially two-ply structure including first and second panels. Each of the first and second panels comprises at least one article engagement structure. At least one article engagement structure of the first panel is aligned with at least one article engagement structure of the second panel. The second panel is a partially reinforcing layer disposed in a partially overlapping relationship with the first panel such that the first and second panels together form a partially two-ply structure. The partially two-ply structure comprises a two-ply region and a single-ply region.

[0007] Advantageously, the first and second panels provide an article carrier including a partially two-ply article engagement carrier. The second panel of the engagement board increases the gripping force or frictional force between the article carrier and an article received in the article carrier. This can prevent or inhibit rotation of the article with respect to the article carrier when received within the article carrier.

[0008] Optionally, the second panel comprises at least one partial article engagement structure disposed in alignment with at least one article engagement structure of the first panel to form a partially two-ply article engagement device.

[0009] Optionally, the second panel is hinge-connected to the first panel by a hinge connection. The hinge connection may be a fold line offset with respect to a side edge of the first panel.

[0010] Optionally, the carrier comprises at least one partial side panel hinge-connected to a side edge of the first panel. The at least one partial side panel extends into an opening of at least one partial article engagement structure of the second panel when the carrier is in a blank form. The at least one partial side panel can define a part around the opening of the at least one partial article engagement structure.

[0011] Optionally, at least one partial article engagement structure comprises a main tab. The main tab may extend from an end panel hinged to a second panel. The main tab may be positioned adjacent to at least one partial side panel and separated therefrom by a cutting line when the carrier is in a blank configuration.

[0012] A second aspect of the present invention provides an upper engagement type article carrier for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises an engagement board including an engagement panel and a reinforcing panel. Each panel comprises at least one article engagement structure. At least one article engagement structure on the engagement panel is aligned with at least one article engagement structure on the reinforcing panel. The engagement panel is coupled to the reinforcing panel by a pair of connecting panels. The first connecting panel of the pair of connecting panels is hinged to the second connecting panel of the pair of connecting panels by a hinge connection. Each of the pair of connecting panels comprises at least one article engagement tooth extending therefrom to form a two-ply engagement tooth. The pair of connecting panels can form a two-ply side panel.

[0013] Optionally, the two plies of a two-ply engaging tooth are bonded to each other. Optionally, the two-ply engaging tooth is bonded to an additional side panel to form a three-ply side panel of the article carrier.

[0014] A third aspect of the present invention provides an upper-engaging type article carrier for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises a main panel having at least one article engagement structure. The at least one article engagement structure includes an opening at least partially defined by a plurality of engagement tabs or teeth. Each of the plurality of engagement teeth has a free edge. The free edges of the engagement teeth each define a portion of the opening. The free edge of at least one of the plurality of engagement teeth has a straight free edge that is collinear with the straight portion of the free edge of an adjacent engagement tooth among the plurality of engagement teeth.

[0015] Optionally, at least one free edge of a plurality of engaging teeth is arranged in continuity with the free edge of an adjacent engaging tooth.

[0016] Optionally, the straight free edge of at least one of the multiple engaging teeth is aligned in a straight line with the straight portion of the free edge of another of the multiple engaging teeth, and the other tooth is positioned adjacent to at least one of the multiple engaging teeth.

[0017] A fourth aspect of the present invention provides an upper-engaging type article carrier for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises a main panel having at least one article engagement structure. The at least one article engagement structure includes an opening that is at least partially defined by a plurality of engagement teeth. Each of the plurality of engagement teeth has a free edge. The free edges of the engagement teeth each define a portion of the opening. The free edge of at least one of the plurality of engagement teeth has a straight free edge that is collinear with the straight portion of the free edge of each of an adjacent pair of engagement teeth among the plurality of engagement teeth.

[0018] A fifth aspect of the present invention provides an over-engaging type article carrier for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises a first main panel and a second main panel spaced apart from the first main panel. The second main panel comprises at least one article engagement structure. The first main panel comprises a pair of locking tabs punched out from the first main panel and hinged to the first main panel, facing each other. The pair of locking tabs are spaced apart by an opening. The opening forms an observation window from which a portion of the second main panel can be observed. The portion of the second main panel comprises a pair of receiving openings. The locking tabs are received in each of the pair of receiving openings to secure the first main panel to the second main panel, and each receiving opening provides a handle or part thereof for carrying the article carrier.

[0019] This may be advantageous in making it easier for the user to understand the best way to engage the handle, in particular, that it can or should engage with the second main panel when transporting the goods carrier, and not rely solely on the first main panel at the top.

[0020] Optionally, each receiving opening is defined by at least one receiving tab or female tab punched out from a second main panel and hinged to the second main panel by its respective hinge connection.

[0021] Optionally, each receptive opening is hinged to a second main panel by a pair of branched fold lines and defined by three receptive tabs, each containing a pair of receptive tabs separated from each other by a first cutting line, the pair of branched fold lines containing proximal ends close together and spaced apart from each other, and distal ends spaced apart from each other. Optionally, the first cutting line bisects the pair of branched fold lines.

[0022] Optionally, the third tab is hinged to the second main panel by an additional fold line, the additional fold line oriented perpendicular to the first cutting line. Optionally, the first cutting line bisects the additional fold line.

[0023] Optionally, a pair of receptive tabs are partially defined by a second cutting line extending between the distal ends of a branched and positioned folding line. Optionally, the second cutting line is oriented perpendicular to the first cutting line.

[0024] Optionally, the third tab has a free edge, which faces a hinge edge defined by a further fold line. Optionally, the free edge is provided by a portion of the second cutting line, and the free edge is shorter than the second cutting line.

[0025] A sixth aspect of the present invention provides an upper-engaging type article carrier for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises a main panel having at least one article-holding structure including an opening at least partially defined by a plurality of teeth. The plurality of teeth include standard teeth, wide teeth which are wider than the standard teeth, and tall teeth which are taller than the standard teeth. The standard teeth and wide teeth each form an engaging tooth, with engaging edges facing their respective hinge connections to the main panel. The engaging edges are configured from which an article is suspended, and the tall teeth can be used as contact teeth or engaging teeth.

[0026] A seventh aspect of the present invention provides a package comprising an upper-engaging type article carrier and at least one article. The article carrier comprises a main panel having at least one article-holding structure including an opening at least partially defined by a plurality of teeth. The plurality of teeth include standard teeth, wide teeth which are wider than the standard teeth, and tall teeth which are taller than the standard teeth. The standard teeth and wide teeth each have an engaging edge facing their respective hinge connection to the main panel. The engaging edge engages below a projection of the article, from which the article is suspended. The tall teeth are used as abutment teeth, and the free edge of the tall teeth is positioned above the projection from which the article is suspended. The free edge of the tall teeth faces the hinge connection of the tall teeth to the main panel.

[0027] Selectively, some teeth may be narrower than standard teeth.

[0028] Optionally, the free edge of the tall tooth extends further from its hinge connection to the main panel than the standard tooth extends. Optionally, the free edge of the tall tooth is radially offset from the free edge of the standard tooth.

[0029] Optionally, the free edge of a tall tooth is closer to the center of the opening than the free edge of a standard tooth. Optionally, a tall tooth has substantially the same width as a standard tooth. Optionally, the free edge of a broad tooth is continuous with the free edge of an adjacent tooth. Optionally, the free edges of broad teeth and standard teeth are equidistant from the center of the opening.

[0030] An eighth aspect of the present invention provides a blank for forming an upper engagement type article carrier. The blank comprises panels for forming a two-ply engagement panel, which includes an engagement panel and a reinforcing panel. Each panel comprises an article engagement structure, wherein the article engagement structure of the first panel is configured to align with the article engagement structure of the second panel. The reinforcing panel is a partial reinforcing panel configured to partially overlap the engagement panel, such that the partial reinforcing panel together with the engagement panel forms a partial two-ply engagement panel. The partial two-ply engagement panel comprises a two-ply region and a single-ply region.

[0031] A ninth aspect of the present invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises panels for forming a two-ply engaging panel, which includes an engaging panel and a reinforcing panel. Each panel comprises an article engaging structure, the article engaging structure of the first panel being configured to align with the article engaging structure of the second panel. The engaging panel is coupled to the reinforcing panel by a pair of connecting panels, the first of the pair of connecting panels being hinged to the second of the pair of connecting panels by a hinge connection. Each of the pair of connecting panels comprises at least one article engaging tooth, which extends from the connecting panel to form a two-ply engaging tooth on the assembled carrier.

[0032] A tenth aspect of the present invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a main panel having at least one article engagement structure including an opening at least partially defined by a plurality of engagement teeth. Each of the plurality of engagement teeth has a free edge, each free edge defining a portion of the opening. At least one of the plurality of engagement teeth has a straight free edge that is collinear with a straight portion of an adjacent free edge of one of the plurality of engagement teeth.

[0033] An eleventh aspect of the present invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a main panel having at least one article engagement structure. The at least one article engagement structure includes an opening defined at least partially by a plurality of engagement teeth. Each of the plurality of engagement teeth has a free edge, each free edge defining a portion of the opening. At least one of the plurality of engagement teeth has a straight free edge that is collinear with the straight portion of the free edge of each of a pair of adjacently arranged engagement teeth of the plurality of engagement teeth.

[0034] A twelfth aspect of the present invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a first main panel and a second main panel. The second main panel comprises at least one article engagement structure. The first main panel comprises a pair of locking tabs punched out from the first main panel and hinged to the first main panel, facing each other. The pair of locking tabs are spaced apart from each other by an opening. The opening forms an observation window from which a portion of the second main panel can be observed. The portion of the second main panel comprises a pair of receiving openings. The locking tabs are receivable into each of the pair of receiving openings to secure the first main panel to the second main panel, and each receiving opening provides a handle or a portion thereof in the assembled article carrier.

[0035] A thirteenth aspect of the present invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a main panel having at least one article-holding structure including an opening at least partially defined by a plurality of teeth. The plurality of teeth include standard teeth, wide teeth which are wider than the standard teeth, and tall teeth which are taller than the standard teeth. The standard teeth and wide teeth each form an engaging tooth, having engaging edges that face their respective hinge connections to the main panel. The engaging edges are configured from which an article is suspended, while the tall teeth can be used as contact teeth or engaging teeth.

[0036] A fourteenth aspect of the present invention provides an article carrier for packaging at least one article, which is formed from a single blank. The carrier comprises a tubular structure formed from a plurality of panels, including engaging panels. The engaging panels have at least one article holding structure for engaging with an article and suspending the article therefrom. The single blank is formed from a substrate having a first surface and a second surface on the opposite side. The engaging panels provide the first surface of the substrate as the inner surface or internal surface of the tubular structure. The plurality of panels further comprises a cover panel spaced apart above the engaging panels. The cover panel provides the first surface of the substrate as the outer surface or external surface of the tubular structure.

[0037] Optionally, an end panel is hinged to the end of an engaging panel, exposing a first surface of the substrate when viewed from the end of the tubular structure. The first surface of the end panel may be the outer surface facing the outside of the tubular structure.

[0038] Optionally, the multiple panels further comprise a base panel arranged in surface contact with the engaging panel, the base panel presenting a first surface of the substrate as the outer surface of the tubular structure.

[0039] A fifteenth aspect of the present invention provides an assembled article carrier. The article carrier comprises an engaging panel or board including upper and lower prisms arranged in surface contact with each other. The lower prisms include at least one lower opening, the at least one lower opening having a series of annular lower ply tabs formed around the at least one lower opening. The upper prisms include at least one upper opening substantially coaxial with the at least one lower opening, and have a series of annular upper ply tabs formed around the at least one upper opening. One of the upper ply tabs is in surface contact with at least two of the lower ply tabs. A first lower ply tab of the at least two lower ply tabs is in partial surface contact with one of the upper ply tabs. A second lower ply tab of the at least two lower ply tabs is in full surface contact with one of the upper ply tabs.

[0040] Optionally, a third lower ply tab of at least two lower ply tabs is in partial surface contact with one of the upper ply tabs, and a second lower ply tab of at least two lower ply tabs is interposed between a first lower ply tab and a third lower ply tab of at least two lower ply tabs.

[0041] Optionally, a recess is defined between one of the upper ply tabs and an adjacent upper ply tab, and the first of at least two lower ply tabs is exposed so as to be visible through the recess when viewed from the side of the upper ply.

[0042] Optionally, the second upper ply tab of the upper ply tabs is in surface contact and engaged with at least two of the lower ply tabs.

[0043] Optionally, one of the upper ply tabs is positioned at the corner of the item carrier.

[0044] A sixteenth aspect of the present invention provides an article carrier for packaging at least one article. The carrier has an engagement panel having a finger opening, which is at least partially defined by at least two finger flaps hinged to the engagement panel by their respective hinge connections. The finger opening is surrounded by four article receiving openings, each having an opening at least partially enclosed by an article engagement tab. A conceptual line passing through the center of the finger opening and the center of the first article receiving opening among the four article receiving openings located at the corner of the engagement panel bisects the recess between adjacent pairs of engagement teeth in the first article receiving opening and intersects the hinge connections of adjacent finger flaps among the at least two finger flaps.

[0045] Optionally, the finger opening is defined by four finger flaps.

[0046] Optionally, the four finger flaps may comprise two pairs of opposing finger flaps.

[0047] Optionally, each finger flap of a pair of opposing finger flaps is hinged to the engagement panel, facing each other.

[0048] Optionally, the hinge connections of adjacent finger flaps among at least two finger flaps are oriented obliquely to the edge and side edges of the engagement panel. The corners of the engagement panel may be chamfered. The corner edges of the engagement panel may be parallel to the hinge connections of adjacent finger flaps among at least two finger flaps.

[0049] A 17th aspect of the present invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a main panel having finger openings at least partially defined by at least two finger flaps hinged to a main panel by their respective hinge connections. The finger openings are surrounded by four article receiving openings, each having an opening at least partially enclosed by an article engaging tab. A conceptual line passing through the center of the finger openings and the center of the first article receiving opening among the four article receiving openings located at the corners of the main panel bisects the recess between adjacent pairs of engaging teeth in the first article receiving opening and intersects the hinge connections of adjacent finger flaps among the at least two finger flaps.

[0050] An eighteenth aspect of the present invention provides an article carrier for packaging at least one article. The carrier has an engagement panel having finger openings at least partially defined by at least two finger flaps hinged to an engagement panel by respective hinge connections. The finger openings are surrounded by four article receiving openings, each having an opening at least partially enclosed by an article engagement tab. A conceptual line passing through the center of the first article receiving opening of the four article receiving openings and the center of the second article receiving opening of the four article receiving openings bisects the recess between adjacent pairs of engagement teeth in each of the first and second article receiving openings and intersects the hinge connections of adjacent finger flaps of the at least two finger flaps.

[0051] Optionally, the finger opening is positioned between the first article receiving opening and the second article receiving opening.

[0052] Optionally, the conceptual line passes through the center of the finger opening.

[0053] Optionally, the conceptual line intersects with the opposing pairs of hinge connections of at least two finger flaps.

[0054] Optionally, the conceptual line bisects the opposing pair of hinge connections of at least two finger flaps.

[0055] A 19th aspect of the present invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank has a main panel having finger openings at least partially defined by at least two finger flaps hinged to a main panel by their respective hinge connections. The finger openings are surrounded by four article receiving openings, each having an opening at least partially enclosed by an article engaging tab. A conceptual line passing through the center of the first article receiving opening of the four article receiving openings and the center of the second article receiving opening of the four article receiving openings bisects the recess between adjacent pairs of engaging teeth in each of the first and second article receiving openings and intersects the hinge connections of adjacent finger flaps of the at least two finger flaps.

[0056] A twentieth aspect of the present invention provides an upper-engaged article carrier for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises an upper main panel and a lower main panel spaced apart from the upper main panel. The lower main panel comprises at least one article engaging structure. The upper main panel has a handle access opening within the upper main panel, which provides a single access window accessible to at least two handle openings in the lower main panel. The at least two handle openings provide a handle between them for carrying the article carrier.

[0057] Optionally, the handle access opening is at least partially defined by at least one foldable tab connected to the upper main panel.

[0058] Optionally, at least one foldable tab is partially received in at least one of at least two handle openings to secure the upper main panel to the lower main panel.

[0059] Optionally, at least one foldable tab comprises a pair of locking tabs. The locking tabs may be arranged facing each other such that when folded against the upper main panel, the locking tabs define a handle access opening between them.

[0060] A 21st aspect of the present invention provides an upper engaging article carrier for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises an upper main panel and a lower main panel spaced apart from the upper main panel. The lower main panel comprises at least one article engaging structure. The upper main panel has a handle access opening within the upper main panel, the handle access opening extending between a first location and a second location. The first location is perpendicularly aligned with a first handle opening of the lower main panel, and the second location is perpendicularly aligned with a second handle opening of the lower main panel.

[0061] Optionally, the handle access opening is at least partially defined by at least one foldable tab connected to the upper main panel.

[0062] Optionally, at least one foldable tab is partially received in at least one of the first and second handle openings to secure the upper main panel to the lower main panel.

[0063] Optionally, at least one foldable tab comprises a pair of locking tabs. The locking tabs may be arranged facing each other such that when folded against the upper main panel, the locking tabs define a handle access opening between them.

[0064] Further features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the specific embodiments shown in the drawings and described below.

[0065] Within the scope of this application, the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternative forms described in the paragraphs, claims, and / or the following description and drawings are intended to be considered or adopted independently or in any combination thereof.

[0066] Features or elements described in relation to, or in connection with, one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments, provided that there is no incompatibility of the 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 such features or elements extracted from one embodiment may be included in addition to or instead of one or more features or elements of the other embodiments.

[0067] Features or combinations of features of an embodiment disclosed herein may be separated and extracted from other features of that embodiment. Alternatively, features or combinations of features of an embodiment may be omitted from that embodiment.

[0068] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0069] [Figure 1] This is a plan view from above a blank for forming a carrier according to the first embodiment. [Figure 1B] This is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the blank in Figure 1, seen from above. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a top-down perspective view of the carrier formed from the blank. [Figure 3] This is a top view of a blank for forming a carrier according to the second embodiment. [Figure 4] Figure 3 is a top-down perspective view of the career formed from the blank. [Figure 5] This is a top view of a blank for forming a carrier according to the third embodiment. [Figure 6]Figure 5 shows the stage for assembling the blank into an item carrier. [Figure 7] Figure 6 is a top-down perspective view of the carrier formed from the blank. [Figure 8] This is a top view of a blank for forming a carrier according to the fourth embodiment. [Figure 8A] This is a top-down perspective view of a portion of the carrier formed from the blank shown in Figure 8, which illustrates the handle structure. [Figure 8B] This is a top-down perspective view of the other part of the carrier formed from the blank shown in Figure 8, which illustrates the article engagement device. [Figure 9] This is a top view of a blank for forming a carrier according to the fifth embodiment. [Figure 10] This is a top view of a blank for forming a carrier according to the sixth embodiment. [Figure 11A] Figure 10 is a plan view of the folding stage used to assemble the blanks into an item carrier. [Figure 11B] Figure 10 is a bottom view of the folding stage used to assemble the blank into an item carrier. [Figure 12] Figure 10 is a schematic diagram showing the blank in a folded stage or flat, non-upright configuration, showing both the upper and lower plies of the carrier, with the lower plies indicated by dashed lines. [Figure 13] Figure 10 is a top-down perspective view of a carrier formed or assembled from a blank. [Figure 14] This is a top view of a blank for forming a carrier according to the seventh embodiment. [Figure 15] Figure 14 is a top-down perspective view of the carrier formed from the blank. [Figure 16] This is a top view of a blank for forming a carrier according to the eighth embodiment. [Figure 17] Figure 16 is a top-down perspective view of the stages that make up a career, based on the blank space. [Figure 18]Figure 16 is a top-down perspective view of the carrier formed from the blank. [Figure 19] This is a top-down perspective view of a blank for forming a carrier according to the ninth embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0070] Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of article engagement devices, packages, blanks, and carriers are disclosed herein. It should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of ways in which specific aspects of the Invention may be implemented, and do not constitute an exhaustive list of all ways in which the 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 will be understood that the article engagement devices, packages, blanks, and carriers described herein may be embodied in a variety of alternative forms. Figures are not necessarily to scale, and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to illustrate details of specific components. Well-known components, materials, or methods are not necessarily described in great detail to avoid obscuring this disclosure. Any specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be construed as limitations, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to employ the Invention in various ways.

[0071] Referring to Figure 1, a plan view of the blank 10 is shown, and the blank 10 can form a carton or carrier 90 as shown in Figure 2 for accommodating and transporting a group of primary products, such as but not limited to bottles or cans, hereafter referred to as articles B. Articles B may be substantially cylindrical, and articles B may have a circular cross-sectional shape at least around the area of ​​engagement with the carrier 90. The blank 10 forms a secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package. Alternative blanks 110;210;310;410;510 for forming alternative cartons or carriers 190;290;390;590 are shown in Figures 3 to 13.

[0072] In embodiments detailed herein, the terms “carton” and “carrier” refer to containers for engaging and transporting articles, such as primary product containers, for the non-limiting purpose of illustrating various features of the present invention. It is intended that the teachings of the present invention may be applied to a variety of product containers, which may be tapered and / or cylindrical. Exemplary containers include bottles (e.g., metal, glass, or plastic bottles), cans (e.g., aluminum cans), tin cans, pouches, packets, and the like.

[0073] Blanks 10; 110; 210; 310; 410; 510 are formed from a suitable substrate sheet. When used herein, the term “suitable substrate” should be understood to include all kinds of foldable sheet materials, such as cardboard, corrugated cardboard, thick paper, plastic, and combinations thereof. For example, one or more blanks may be used, where appropriate, to provide the carrier structures described in more detail below.

[0074] The packaging structures or cartons described herein may be formed from sheet materials such as cardboard, and may be made of or coated with materials to enhance their strength. An example of such sheet material is tear-resistant NATRALOCK® cardboard manufactured by WestRock Company. It should be noted that tear-resistant materials may be provided by two or more layers to help improve the tear resistance of the package. Typically, one surface of the sheet material may have different properties from the other surface. For example, the surface of the sheet material facing outward from the finished package may be particularly smooth and may have a coating such as a clay coating or other surface treatment to provide good printability. On the other hand, the surface of the sheet material facing inward may be coated, layered, or treated, or otherwise prepared to provide properties such as tear resistance, good adhesion, heat sealability, or one or more of other desired functional properties.

[0075] In the illustrated embodiments, blanks 10;110;210;310;410;510 are configured to form cartons or carriers 90;190;290;390;590 for packaging exemplary arrangements of exemplary articles B. In the embodiments shown in Figures 1 to 9, the arrangement is a 2x3 matrix or array, with two rows of three articles B, where the articles B are beverage cans. In the embodiments shown in Figures 10 to 13, the arrangement is a 2x2 matrix or array, with two rows of two articles B, where the articles B are beverage cans. Alternatively, blanks 10;110;210;310;410;510 can be configured to form carriers for packaging articles of other types, numbers, and sizes, and / or for packaging articles in different arrangements or configurations.

[0076] Referring to Figure 1, a blank 10 is shown comprising several panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, and 26, including a main panel 24 for forming the engagement panel of the carrier 90 (see Figure 2).

[0077] The blank 10 includes a first outer side panel 12 hinged to the top or first side of the cover panel 14 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 13. The blank 10 includes a second outer side panel 16 hinged to the second side of the cover panel 14 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 15. The blank 10 includes a connecting panel 18 hinged to the second outer side panel 16 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 17. The connecting panel 18 is hinged to a reinforcing panel 20 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 19.

[0078] The blank 10 comprises a first inner end panel 28A hinged to the first end of the reinforcing panel 20 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 25A, and a second inner end panel 28B hinged to the second end of the reinforcing panel 20 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 25B. The blank 10 comprises a first inner side panel portion 22 hinged to the first side of the engaging panel 24 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 21, and a second inner side panel portion 26 hinged to the second side of the engaging panel 24 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 23.

[0079] The blank 10 comprises a first outer end panel 30A hinged to the first end of the engagement panel 24 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 27A, and a second outer end panel 30B hinged to the second end of the engagement panel 24 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 27B. The first and second outer end panels 30A and 30B are hinged to the first and second inner end panels 28A and 28B, respectively, by a pair of collinear fold lines F1. The reinforcing panel 20 is hinged to the engagement panel 24 by a pair of collinear fold lines F1 and a hinge connection F2 that is collinear.

[0080] A pair of fold lines F1 and hinge connection points F2, which lie on the same straight line, are offset from the fold line 21 that hinges the first inner side panel portion 22 to the engagement panel 24.

[0081] The engagement panel 24 includes at least one article holding structure ORT1, ORT2. In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement panel 24 comprises a plurality of article holding structures ORT1, ORT2, specifically six article holding structures ORT1, ORT2 arranged in a 3x2 matrix or array. The engagement panel 24 comprises three columns of article holding structures ORT1, ORT2, each column comprising two article holding structures ORT1, ORT2. The engagement panel 24 comprises two rows of article holding structures ORT1, ORT2, each row comprising three article holding structures ORT1, ORT2. Each of the article holding structures ORT1, ORT2 may include openings A5, A6.

[0082] The reinforcing panel 20 includes at least one article engagement structure IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4. In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcing panel 20 comprises a plurality of article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4, specifically six article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4 arranged in a 3x2 matrix or array. The reinforcing panel 20 comprises three columns of article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4. Each column comprises two article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4. The reinforcing panel 20 comprises two rows of article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4, each row comprising three article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4. Each of the article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4 may have openings A1, A2, A3, A4.

[0083] Each article engagement structure IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, and IRT4 within the reinforcing panel 20 is configured to be positioned perpendicularly to the respective article holding structures ORT1 and ORT2 within the engagement panel 24.

[0084] The engagement panel 24 comprises four first article holding structures ORT1. The first article holding structures ORT1 are located adjacent to the ends of the engagement panel 24. The engagement panel 24 comprises two second article holding structures ORT2. The second article holding structures ORT2 are located between a first pair of first article holding structures ORT1 disposed near the first end of the engagement panel 24 and a second pair of first article holding structures ORT1 disposed near the second end of the engagement panel 24. The second article holding structures ORT2 are also referred to herein as intermediate article holding structures ORT2. The first article holding structures ORT1 are also referred to herein as end article holding structures ORT1.

[0085] Each of the first article holding structures ORT1 is substantially similar in structure and will therefore be described in detail with reference to the first of the first article holding structures ORT1 located adjacent to the first end of the blank 10, as shown in Figure 1. The first article holding structure ORT1 comprises an article receiving opening partially defined by an opening A5. The first article holding structure ORT1 comprises a plurality of engaging teeth 64, 66, 68 arranged around the opening A5. The first article holding structure ORT1 comprises a pair of tabs 60, 62 that partially define the opening A5 and are arranged around it.

[0086] Multiple engaging teeth 64, 66, and 68 are hinged to the main panel 12 by fold lines. Fold lines may be defined by multiple cutting lines 63 and 65. Multiple cutting lines 63 and 65 may define or approximate a circle or at least a portion thereof.

[0087] The first article holding structure ORT1 comprises a first tab 60, which is punched out from the material forming the engagement panel 24 and is integral with the first inner side panel portion 22, and the first tab 60 is at least partially defined by a pair of cutting lines 61 that define the side edge of the first tab 60. The pair of cutting lines 61 extend from the opening A5 to a fold line 21 between the engagement panel 24 and the first inner side panel portion 22 from which the first tab 60 extends.

[0088] The first article holding structure ORT1 includes a second tab 62, which is punched out from the material forming the engagement panel 24 and is integral with the first outer end panel 30A, and the second tab 62 is at least partially defined by a pair of cutting lines 69 that define the side edge of the second tab 62. The pair of cutting lines 69 extend from the opening A5 to the fold line 27A between the engagement panel 24 and the first outer end panel 30A on which the second tab 62 extends. The second tab 62 is oriented perpendicular to the first tab 60.

[0089] The first article holding structure ORT1 comprises a plurality of first engaging teeth 64 arranged around the opening A5. Each of the plurality of first teeth 64 has an engaging edge facing the hinge edge. The engaging edge is defined by a straight portion of the cutting line defining the opening A5. Each engaging edge defines a portion of a polygon. The illustrated embodiment comprises eight first teeth 64. Each first tooth 64 has a pair of side edges, which are defined by cutting lines 67 extending radially outward from each vertex of the polygon, i.e., from each vertex between adjacent pairs of straight portions of the cutting line defining the opening A5. The cutting lines 67 are arranged branching from each other, defining an angle between them, which may be approximately 22.5°.

[0090] The first article holding structure ORT1 comprises a pair of second engaging teeth 66 arranged around the opening A5. The pair of second engaging teeth 66 are arranged on both sides of the first tab 60. Each second engaging tooth 66 is partially defined by one of the cutting lines 61 and partially defined by a cutting line 67.

[0091] The first article holding structure ORT1 includes a pair of third engaging teeth 68 arranged around the opening A5. A pair of third engaging teeth 66 are arranged on both sides of the second tab 62. Each third engaging tooth 68 is partially defined by one of the cutting lines 69 and partially defined by the cutting line 67. The first article holding structure ORT1 includes one second engaging tooth 66 and one third engaging tooth 68 between the first tab 60 and the second tab 62.

[0092] Each second engaging tooth 66 is larger or wider than the first tooth 64, i.e., it occupies a larger angular dimension than the first tooth 64 or a larger portion of the opening A5 than the first tooth 64. Each third engaging tooth 68 is smaller or narrower than the first tooth 64, i.e., these third engaging teeth occupy a smaller angular dimension than the first tooth 64 or a smaller portion of the opening A5 than the first tooth 64.

[0093] The first article holding structure ORT1 comprises a plurality of first circumferential cutting lines 63. Each of the plurality of first circumferential cutting lines 63 is aligned with one of the radial cutting lines 67, or a conceptual extension thereof, such that one of the radial cutting lines 67 or a conceptual extension thereof bisects each of the plurality of first circumferential cutting lines 63.

[0094] Each of the multiple first circumferential cutting lines 63 is spaced apart from one of the radial cutting lines 67 that bisects it, so as to define a connecting nick or bridge portion between a pair of adjacent teeth 64, 66, 68. Each of the multiple first circumferential cutting lines 63 may be straight. In an alternative embodiment, each of the multiple first circumferential cutting lines 63 may be arc-shaped or curved.

[0095] The first article holding structure ORT1 comprises a plurality of second circumferential cutting lines 65. Each of the plurality of second circumferential cutting lines 65 is positioned between a pair of plurality of first circumferential cutting lines 63 and spaced apart therefrom, defining a pair of connecting nicks or bridge portions between each tooth 64, 66, 68 and the engagement panel 24. The pair of connecting nicks or bridge portions provides a hinged or foldable connection between each tooth 64, 66, 68 and the engagement panel 24.

[0096] Each of the multiple second circumferential cutting lines 65 may be straight. In an alternative embodiment, each of the multiple second circumferential cutting lines 65 may be arc-shaped or curved. The first tab 60 and the second tab 62 can engage with the article B received in the first article holding structure ORT1, and the tabs 60 and 62 do not support or bear the load (or part thereof) of the article B. The first tab 60 and the second tab 62 can facilitate the folding of the side panels and end panels 22, 26, 30A, 30B and / or improve the retention of the side panels and end panels 22, 26, 30A, 30B in the folded state.

[0097] Each of the second article holding structures ORT2 is substantially similar in structure and will therefore be described in detail with reference to the first of the second article holding structures ORT2, which is located adjacent to the first of the first article holding structures ORT1, as shown in Figure 1. The second article holding structure ORT2 has an article receiving opening partially defined by a second opening A6. The second article holding structure ORT2 has a plurality of teeth 64, 66 arranged around the second opening A6. The second article holding structure ORT2 is substantially similar in structure to the first article holding structure ORT1, except that the second tab 62 and a pair of third teeth 68 are omitted and replaced with three additional first teeth 64.

[0098] The reinforcing panel 20 comprises two first article engagement structures IRT1. The first article engagement structures IRT1 are located adjacent to the ends of the reinforcing panel 20 and adjacent to the connecting panel 18. The blank 10 comprises one second article engagement structure IRT2. The second article engagement structure IRT2 is located between the pair of first article engagement structures IRT1 and is disposed in close proximity to or adjacent to the connecting panel 18. The second article engagement structure IRT2 is also referred to herein as a complete intermediate article engagement structure IRT2. The first article engagement structure IRT1 is also referred herein as a complete end article engagement structure IRT1.

[0099] The reinforcing panel 20 comprises two third article engagement structures IRT3. The third article engagement structures IRT3 are located adjacent to the ends of the reinforcing panel 20 and adjacent to the engagement panel 24. The blank 10 comprises one fourth article engagement structure IRT4. The fourth article engagement structure IRT4 is located between a pair of third article engagement structures IRT3 and is disposed in close proximity to or adjacent to the engagement panel 24. The fourth article engagement structure IRT4 is also referred to here as a partial intermediate article engagement structure IRT4. The third article engagement structures IRT3 are also referred to here as partial end article engagement structures IRT3.

[0100] Each of the first article engagement structures IRT1 is provided with an opening A1 punched out of or defined within the reinforcing panel 20. The opening A1 is partially defined by a ridged or wavy cutting line E1. The wavy cutting line E1 is formed by a plurality of small tabs T a and multiple recesses or notches T r Define a pair of tabs T a Between them is a recess T r A wavy cutting line E1 can be considered superimposed on a conceptual circular line, that is, a conceptual circular line of appropriate dimensions is arranged concentrically with respect to the wavy cutting line E1 and can periodically contact or intersect with the wavy cutting line E1. For example, but not limited to, the conceptual line is tab T a Mountain or recess T r It can be configured to be positioned in contact with the valley.

[0101] Each of the first article engagement structures IRT1 comprises a first main tab 40, which is punched out from the material forming the reinforcing panel 20 and is integrated with the connecting panel 18. The first main tab 40 is at least partially defined by a pair of cutting lines 41 that define the side edges of the first main tab 40. The pair of cutting lines 41 extend from the opening A1 to the fold line 19 between the reinforcing panel 20 and the connecting panel 18 on which the first main tab 40 extends.

[0102] Each of the first article engagement structures IRT1 comprises a second main tab 42, which is punched out from the material forming the reinforcing panel 20 and is integral with one of the inner end panels 28A, 28B. The second main tab 42 is at least partially defined by a pair of cutting lines 49 that define the side edge of the second main tab 42. The pair of cutting lines 49 extend from the opening A1 to the respective fold lines 25A, 25B between the reinforcing panel 20 and the one of the inner end panels 28A, 28B to which the second main tab 42 extends.

[0103] Each of the first article engagement structures IRT1 comprises a pair of third main tabs 44, the third main tabs 44 being positioned on either side of the first main tab 40, and the first main tab 40 separating the pair of third main tabs 44. The first main tab 40 and the pair of third main tabs 44 each have a free edge, which defines a portion of the opening A1. The free edge of the first main tab 40 is straight, and the free edge of each of the pair of third main tabs 44 has a straight portion, which is collinear with the straight free edge of the first main tab 40.

[0104] Each of the first article engagement structures IRT1 comprises a pair of fourth main tabs 46, the fourth main tabs 46 arranged on both sides of the second main tab 42, the second main tab 42 separating the pair of fourth main tabs 46. The second main tab 42 and the pair of fourth main tabs 46 each have a free edge, which defines a portion of the opening A1. The free edge of the second main tab 42 is straight, and the free edge of each of the pair of fourth main tabs 46 has a straight portion, which is collinear with the straight free edge of the second main tab 42.

[0105] The second main tab 42 and the pair of fourth main tabs 46 are oriented perpendicular to the first main tab 40 and the pair of third main tabs 44.

[0106] A part of the undulating or wavy cut line E1 is disposed between the first main tab of the pair of third main tabs 44 and the first main tab of the pair of fourth main tabs 46 disposed adjacent to the one of the pair of third main tabs 44. The part of the undulating or wavy cut line E1 has a small tab T between the third main tab 44 and the fourth main tab 46 a and a pair of recesses T r defining them.

[0107] The second part of the undulating or wavy cut line E1 is disposed between the other of the pair of third main tabs 44 and the other of the pair of fourth main tabs 46. The second part of the undulating or wavy cut line E1 has nine small tabs T a and ten recesses T r defining them.

[0108] The second article engagement structure IRT2 has a configuration substantially similar to that of the first article engagement structure IRT1, but the second main tab 42 and the pair of fourth main tabs 46 are omitted, and instead an additional part of the undulating or wavy cut line E2 is provided. The second article engagement structure IRT2 includes an opening A2 punched out from the reinforcing panel 20 or defined within the reinforcing panel 20.

[0109] The third article engagement structure IRT3 is structurally similar to the first article engagement structure IRT1, but is interrupted by one of the first inner side panel portions 22 and a portion of the engagement panel 24, specifically a portion including one of the first or second article holding structures ORT1, ORT2. Each of the third article engagement structures IRT3 has an opening A3 punched out of or defined within the reinforcing panel 20. Each of the third article engagement structures IRT3 has a second main tab 42 and a fourth main tab 46. The second main tab 42 is punched out of the material forming the reinforcing panel 20 and is integral with one of the inner end panels 28A, 28B. The second main tab 42 is at least partially defined by a pair of cutting lines 49 that define the side edge of the second main tab 42. One of the pair of cutting lines 49 extends from the opening A3 to the respective fold lines 25A and 25B between the reinforcing panel 20 and one of the inner end panels 28A and 28B on which the second main tab 42 extends. One of the pair of cutting lines 49 separates the second main tab 42 from the fourth main tab 46. The second main tab 42 and the fourth main tab 46 each have a free edge, which defines a portion of the opening A1. A portion of the free edge of the second main tab 42 is defined by a cutting line that separates the second main tab 42 from the first inner side panel portion 22 and interrupts the third article engagement structure IRT3. The free edge of the second main tab 42 is straight, and each free edge of the fourth main tab 46 has a straight portion, which is collinear with the straight free edge of the second main tab 42.

[0110] Each of the third article engagement structures IRT3 is provided with a wavy or wavy cutting line. The wavy cutting line extends from the engagement panel 24 to the fourth main tab 46, and in this case as well, the wavy cutting line follows or overlaps a conceptual circular line.

[0111] The fourth article engagement structure IRT4 has a similar structure to the second article engagement structure IRT2, but is interrupted by one of the first inner side panel portions 22 and a portion of the engagement panel 24. This interruption has the effect of removing the first main tab 40 and separating the pair of third main tabs 44. The fourth article engagement structure IRT4 includes an opening A4 punched out of or defined within the reinforcing panel 20. The fourth article engagement structure IRT4 includes a wavy cutting line defining the opening A4, extending from a first portion of the engagement panel 24 located on the first side of the first inner side panel portion 22 to a second portion of the engagement panel 24 located on the second side opposite the first inner side panel portion 22.

[0112] The blank 10 may include handle structures H1 and H2. Each handle structure H1 and H2 includes a handle opening at least partially defined by a handle opening A7. A first portion H1 of the handle structures H1 and H2 is provided on the upper or cover panel 14. The handle opening is positioned on a longitudinal axis that bisects the upper or cover panel 14. The handle opening is perpendicularly aligned with portions H2 of the handle structures H1 and H2 provided on the reinforcing panel 20 and the engagement panel 24. The handle opening may be partially defined by at least one foldable tab 50. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle opening is partially defined by a pair of foldable tabs 50, which are spaced longitudinally apart by the handle opening A7. Each of the pair of foldable tabs 50 is either punched out of or defined within the cover panel 14 and hinged to the cover panel 14 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 51. The first tab of the pair of foldable tabs 50 is hinged opposite the second tab of the pair of foldable tabs 50, and the fold line 51, which is the hinge connection, defines the opposing ends of the handle opening.

[0113] The foldable tab 50 forms a locking tab 50 for securing the cover panel 14 to the engagement panel 24 and / or the reinforcing panel 20. The locking tab 50 is provided with a pair of notches 53. The pair of notches 53 extend inward from the opposing side edges of the tab 50. Each of the pair of notches may be nonlinear or curved in shape. The notches 53 define a hook or shoulder of the tab 50 for engaging with the portion of the engagement panel 24 and / or the reinforcing panel 20 surrounding the opening.

[0114] The reinforcing panel 20 is provided with a receiving portion H2 in the form of an opening for receiving the locking tabs 50. The illustrated embodiment has a pair of openings, each for receiving one of each of the pair of locking tabs 50. The first opening of the pair of openings is located in the center between the group of four article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, and IRT4. The second opening of the pair of openings is located in the center between the second group of four article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, and IRT4.

[0115] Each opening may be defined by a plurality of flaps 70A, 70B, 72 (also referred to herein as female tabs or receiving tabs), each flap being punched out of or defined within the reinforcing panel 20 and hinged to the reinforcing panel 20 by respective hinge connections in the form of fold lines 71A, 71B, 73. The plurality of flaps 70A, 70B, 72 are arranged side by side and comprise a pair of flaps 70A, 70B separated from each other by a cutting line 75. The pair of flaps 70A, 70B are hinged to the reinforcing panel 20 by a pair of fold lines 71A, 71B arranged in a branched manner. Each pair of flaps 70A, 70B is formed in a substantially triangular shape. Multiple flaps 70A, 70B, 72 are each provided with a third flap 72, which is hinged to the reinforcing panel 20 by a fold line 73, the fold line 73 being oriented perpendicular to a cutting line 75 separating the pair of flaps 70A, 70B. The third flap 72 may generally be rectangular in shape, or substantially D-shaped. The third flap 72 shares a common cutting line 77 with each of the pair of flaps 70A, 70B, the cutting line 77 defining the free edge of the third flap 72, which faces the hinged edge end defined by the fold line 73. The height of the third flap 72 is shorter than the maximum height dimension of the pair of flaps 70A, 70B. In this way, the multiple flaps 70A, 70B, 72 define a substantially arrowhead-shaped opening in the reinforcing panel 20.

[0116] The engagement panel 24 is provided with a receiving portion H2 in the form of an opening for receiving the locking tabs 50. The illustrated embodiment has a pair of openings, each for receiving one of each of the pair of locking tabs 50. The first opening of the pair is located in the center between the groups of four article holding structures ORT1, ORT2. The second opening of the pair is located in the center between the second group of four article holding structures ORT1, ORT2. Each opening is substantially the same structure as the receiving opening of the reinforcing panel 20 and will not be described in further detail. Each opening of the engagement panel 24 is aligned perpendicularly with the opening of the reinforcing panel 20 and forms part of the handle structures H1, H2. The openings of the engagement panel 24 and the reinforcing panel 20 are aligned perpendicularly with the handle opening of the upper panel 14. The user can insert one or more fingers into the handle opening of the upper panel 14 and the openings of the reinforcing panel 20 and the engagement panel 24 to carry the carrier 90. The user can insert at least two fingers through the handle opening in the upper panel 14, at least one finger into the first pair of aligned openings in the reinforcing panel 20 and the engaging panel 24, and at least one finger into the second pair of aligned openings in the reinforcing panel 20 and the engaging panel 24. The elongated shape of the handle opening in the upper panel 14 facilitates access to and visibility of the openings in the lower reinforcing panel 20 and the engaging panel 24, allowing the user to easily engage with the reinforcing panel 20 and the engaging panel 24. By providing the handle opening A7 between the locking tabs 50, an elongated handle opening is formed, which has the effect of aligning the opening provided by the first locking tab 50 with the opening provided by the second locking tab 50.

[0117] Referring to the structure of the article carrier 90 as shown in Figure 2, the article carrier 90 can be formed by a series of continuous folding operations. The folding process is not limited to those described below and may be modified according to specific manufacturing requirements.

[0118] The engagement panel 24 is folded along fold lines F1 and F2, and the engagement panel 24 makes surface contact with the reinforcing panel 20. The article holding structures ORT1 and ORT2 of the engagement panel 24 are aligned with one of the article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, and IRT4 of the reinforcing panel 20, respectively. In some embodiments, before folding the blank 10 along fold lines F1 and F2, an adhesive or other bonding treatment can be applied to one or both of the engagement panel 24 and the reinforcing panel 20, thus fixing the engagement panel 24 to the reinforcing panel 20.

[0119] Blank 10 is lowered in a folded state relative to the group of articles B. Article B is received by article holding structures ORT1 and ORT2, respectively, and associated with article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, and IRT4.

[0120] When article B is received, tabs 40, 42, 60, and 62 are displaced from the respective planes of the engaging panel 24 or reinforcing panel 20 from which they are punched. In doing so, the end panels 28A, 28B, 30A, and 30B are folded relative to the respective engaging panel 24 or reinforcing panel 20 to which they are hinged.

[0121] The engaging teeth 64, 66, and 68 are displaced out of the plane of the engaging panel 24 and engage with article B. The engaging teeth 64, 66, and 68 engage under a flange, lip, undercut, or other suitable projection provided on article B. In some embodiments, the engaging teeth 64, 66, and 68 engage with a chime or end seam of article B.

[0122] The blank 10 is folded along the fold line 17 such that the second outer side panel 16 is in surface contact with the second inner side panel 26 and overlaps with the connecting panel 18. The second inner side panel 26 is sandwiched or positioned between the second outer side panel 16 and the connecting panel 18.

[0123] The blank 10 is folded along the fold line 15, and the cover panel 14 is positioned over the upper end of article B, which has passed through the reinforcing panel 20 and the engaging panel 24.

[0124] The locking tabs 50 are pressed inward into the carton, thereby displacing the flaps 70A, 70B, and 72 from the plane of the engagement panel 24 or reinforcing panel 20 to which they are hinged. Each locking tab 50 is received into one of the receiving openings and engages with the engagement panel 24 and / or reinforcing panel 20 to secure the cover panel 14 in place.

[0125] The first inner side panel portion 22 is treated with an adhesive or other suitable bonding treatment. In an alternative embodiment, the adhesive may be applied to the corresponding inner surface of the first outer side panel 12.

[0126] The blank 10 is folded along the fold line 13 so that the first outer side panel 12 is in surface contact with each of the first inner side panel portions 22. The first outer side panel 12 is fixed to each of the first inner side panel portions 22. The assembled article carrier 90 is shown in Figure 2.

[0127] Referring here to Figures 3 to 13, additional embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. In the second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth illustrated embodiments, similar numbering is used to indicate similar parts where possible, but the prefixes "100", "200", "300", "400", and "500" have been added to indicate that these features belong to the second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth embodiments, respectively. The additional embodiments share many common features with the first embodiment and therefore only the differences from the embodiments shown in Figures 1 and 2 will be described in detail.

[0128] Figure 3 shows a blank 110 according to a second embodiment, which comprises a plurality of panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122A, 122B, 124, and 126 that are linearly and continuously hinged together by their respective fold lines 113, 115, 117, 119, 121A, 121B, 121C, and 123.

[0129] The blank 110 includes a first outer side panel 112 hinged to the top or first side of the cover panel 114 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 113. The blank 110 also includes a second outer side panel 116 hinged to the second side of the cover panel 114 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 115.

[0130] The blank 110 includes a first side reinforcing panel 118 that is hinged to a second outer side panel 116 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 117. The first side reinforcing panel 118 is hinged to a first side edge of reinforcing panel 120 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 119. The second side reinforcing panel 122A is hinged to an opposing side edge of reinforcing panel 120 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 121A.

[0131] The blank 110 comprises a first inner end panel 128A hinged to the first end of the reinforcing panel 120 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 125A, and a second inner end panel 128B hinged to the second end of the reinforcing panel 120 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 125B.

[0132] The blank 110 comprises a first inner side panel 122B hinged to the first side of the engagement panel 124 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 121C, and a second inner side panel 126 hinged to the second side of the engagement panel 124 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 123. The first inner side panel 122B is hinged to the second side reinforcement panel 122A by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 121B.

[0133] The blank 110 comprises a first outer end panel 130A hinged to the first end of the engagement panel 124 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 127A, and a second outer end panel 130B hinged to the second end of the engagement panel 124 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 127B.

[0134] Blank 110 differs from Blank 10 in Figure 1 in that the reinforcing panel 120 is a full-width panel, meaning it extends completely across the engagement panel 124, whereas in Figure 1, the reinforcing panel 20 is a partial-width panel that extends across a portion of the engagement panel 24.

[0135] The engagement panel 124 includes at least one article holding structure ORT1, ORT2. In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement panel 124 comprises a plurality of article holding structures ORT1, ORT2, specifically six article holding structures ORT1, ORT2 arranged in a 3x2 matrix or array. The engagement panel 124 comprises three columns of article holding structures ORT1, ORT2, each column comprising two article holding structures ORT1, ORT2. The engagement panel 124 comprises two rows of article holding structures ORT1, ORT2, each row comprising three article holding structures ORT1, ORT2. Each of the article holding structures ORT1, ORT2 may include openings A5, A6.

[0136] Each of the first article holding structures ORT1 of the blank 110 shown in Figure 3 is substantially the same structure as each of the first article holding structures ORT1 of the blank 10 shown in Figure 1 and described above, except that the first article holding structure ORT1 comprises a plurality of teeth 164, 166, 168, 174 arranged around the first opening A5, and the plurality of teeth 164, 166, 168, 174 comprises at least one fourth engaging tooth 174. The illustrated embodiment includes, but is not limited to, a plurality of fourth engaging teeth 174, specifically three fourth engaging teeth 174. Each of the fourth engaging teeth 174 may be arranged between a pair of first, second, or third engaging teeth, or any combination thereof. The fourth engaging teeth 174 have a greater height or radial dimension than the first, second, and third engaging teeth 164, 166, 168. In other words, they have a free edge or engaging edge located on the opposite side of the hinge edge, and the free edge of the fourth engaging tooth is located at a greater distance from the hinge edge than the distance at which the free edges of the first, second, or third engaging teeth 164, 166, 168 are located from the hinge edge. In the illustrated embodiment, the fourth engaging tooth 174 is located inside the first opening A5 or around a region located in the center or middle of the engaging panel 124.

[0137] Each of the second article holding structures ORT2 of the blank 110 shown in Figure 3 is substantially the same in configuration as each of the second article holding structures ORT2 of the blank 10 shown in Figure 1 and described above, except that the second article holding structure ORT2 comprises a plurality of teeth 164, 166, 174 arranged around the second opening A6, and the plurality of teeth 164, 166, 174 comprises at least one fourth engaging tooth 174. The illustrated embodiment includes, but is not limited to, a plurality of fourth engaging teeth 174, specifically three fourth engaging teeth 174.

[0138] The reinforcing panel 120 includes at least one article engagement structure IRT1, IRT2. In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcing panel 120 comprises a plurality of article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2, specifically six article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2 arranged in a 3x2 matrix or array. The reinforcing panel 120 comprises three columns of article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2, each column comprising two article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2. The reinforcing panel 120 comprises two rows of article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2, each row comprising three article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2. Each of the article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2 may comprise openings A1, A2.

[0139] The reinforcing panel 120 comprises four first article engagement structures IRT1. The first article engagement structures IRT1 are located adjacent to the ends of the reinforcing panel 120. The blank 110 comprises two second article engagement structures IRT2. The second article engagement structures IRT2 are located between a first pair of first article engagement structures IRT1 disposed adjacent to the first end of the reinforcing panel 120 and a second pair of first article engagement structures IRT1 disposed adjacent to the second end on the opposite side of the reinforcing panel 120. The second article engagement structures IRT2 are also referred to herein as intermediate article engagement structures IRT2. The first article engagement structures IRT1 are also referred to herein as end article engagement structures IRT1.

[0140] Each of the first article engagement structures IRT1 of the blank 110 shown in Figure 3 is substantially the same in structure as each of the first article engagement structures IRT1 of the blank 10 shown in Figure 1 and described above, and will not be described in further detail.

[0141] Each of the second article engagement structures IRT2 of the blank 110 shown in Figure 3 is substantially the same as each of the second article engagement structures IRT2 of the blank 10 shown in Figure 1 and described above, and will not be described in any further detail.

[0142] The blank 110 is assembled onto the carrier 190 in substantially the same manner as the blank 10 in Figure 1, and the assembled carrier 190 is shown in Figure 4. It will be understood that before folding the blank 110 along the fold line 121B, adhesive or other bonding treatment can be applied to one or both of the engaging panel 124 and the reinforcing panel 120, in which case the engaging panel 124 can be fixed to the reinforcing panel 120. Adhesive or other bonding treatment can also be applied to one or both of the second side reinforcing panel 122A and the first inner side panel 122B to fix them to each other.

[0143] To secure the first outer side panel 112 to the first inner side panel 122B, an adhesive or other bonding treatment is applied to the first inner side panel 122B. The adhesive may be applied to the area of ​​the first tab 160.

[0144] Figure 5 shows a blank 210 according to a third embodiment for forming a carrier 290 as shown in Figure 7, the blank 210 comprising an engagement panel 224 and a reinforcing panel 220.

[0145] The blank 210 includes a first side reinforcing panel 218, which is hinged to the first side edge of the reinforcing panel 220 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 219. The second side reinforcing panel 222A is hinged to the opposing side edge of the reinforcing panel 220 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 221A.

[0146] The blank 210 comprises a first inner end panel 228A hinged to the first end of the reinforcing panel 220 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 225A, and a second inner end panel 228B hinged to the second end of the reinforcing panel 220 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 225B.

[0147] The blank 210 comprises a first side panel 222B hinged to a first side of the engagement panel 224 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 221C, and a second side panel 226 hinged to a second side of the engagement panel 224 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 223. The first side panel 222B is hinged to the second side reinforcement panel 222A by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 221B.

[0148] The blank 210 comprises a first outer end panel 230A hinged to the first end of the engagement panel 224 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 227A, and a second outer end panel 230B hinged to the second end of the engagement panel 224 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 227B.

[0149] The engagement panel 224 includes at least one article holding structure ORT1, ORT2. In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement panel 224 comprises a plurality of article holding structures ORT1, ORT2, specifically six article holding structures ORT1, ORT2 arranged in a 3x2 matrix or array. The engagement panel 224 comprises three columns of article holding structures ORT1, ORT2, each column comprising two article holding structures ORT1, ORT2. The engagement panel 224 comprises two rows of article holding structures ORT1, ORT2, each row comprising three article holding structures ORT1, ORT2. Each of the article holding structures ORT1, ORT2 in the blank 210 shown in Figure 5 is substantially the same structure as the respective article holding structures ORT1, ORT2 in the blank 10 shown in Figure 1 and described above, and will not be described in further detail.

[0150] The reinforcing panel 220 includes at least one article engagement structure IRT1, IRT2. In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcing panel 220 comprises a plurality of article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2, specifically six article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2 arranged in a 3x2 matrix or array. The reinforcing panel 220 comprises three columns of article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2, each column comprising two article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2. The reinforcing panel 220 comprises two rows of article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2, each row comprising three article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2. Each of the article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2 in the blank 210 shown in Figure 5 is substantially the same in structure as each of the article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2 in the blank 110 shown in Figure 3 and described above, and will not be described in further detail.

[0151] The blank 210 includes a handle structure comprising a first handle element H3 provided on the reinforcing panel 220 and a second handle element H4 provided on the engagement panel 224. The illustrated blank comprises a pair of first handle elements H3 and a pair of second handle elements H4. Each of the first handle elements H3 is positioned in the center between groups of four article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2. Each of the second handle elements H4 is positioned in the center between groups of four article holding structures ORT1, ORT2. Each first handle element H3 includes a handle or finger opening, the finger opening may be at least partially defined by a pair of handle tabs 270A, 270B. Each handle tab 270A, 270B is substantially triangular in shape. The pair of handle tabs 270A, 270B are separated from each other by a cutting line 275. Each handle tab 270A, 270B is hinged to the reinforcing panel 220 by hinge connections in the form of fold lines 271A, 271B. The fold lines 271A, 271B are arranged branching off from each other.

[0152] Each second handle element H4 is provided with a handle or finger opening, the finger opening may be defined at least partially by a pair of second handle tabs. Each second handle tab is substantially triangular in shape. The pair of second handle tabs are separated from each other by a cutting line. Each second handle tab is hinged to the reinforcing panel 220 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The fold lines are arranged branching relative to each other. Each second handle tab may have a fold line 279 spaced apart from its hinge connection to the engaging panel 224 and parallel to the fold line defining the hinge connection.

[0153] Figure 6 shows the blank 210 folded along the fold line 221B to bring the reinforcing panel 220 into surface contact with the engaging panel 224. Recess T r This is aligned with the cutting line 267 that separates the engaging teeth 264. Tab T a The upper part is aligned with the center or middle of the engaging teeth 264. Before attaching the carrier 290 to the articles B, an adhesive or other bonding treatment may be used to fix the reinforcing panel 220 and the engaging panel 224 in surface contact with each other. Figure 7 shows a package including an article carrier 290 formed from a blank 210, engaged with a group of articles B.

[0154] Figure 8 shows a blank 310 according to a fourth embodiment for forming a carrier 390 (as shown in Figures 8A and 8B), the blank 310 comprising an engagement panel 324 and a reinforcing panel 320.

[0155] The blank 310 includes a first side reinforcing panel 318 hinged to the first side edge of the reinforcing panel 320 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 319. The second side reinforcing panel 322A is hinged to the opposing side edge of the reinforcing panel 320 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 321A.

[0156] The blank 310 comprises a first inner end panel 328A hinged to the first end of the reinforcing panel 320 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 325A, and a second inner end panel 328B hinged to the second end of the reinforcing panel 320 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 325B.

[0157] The blank 310 comprises a first side panel 322B hinged to a first side of the engagement panel 324 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 321C, and a second side panel 326 hinged to a second side of the engagement panel 324 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 323. The first side panel 322B is hinged to the second side reinforcement panel 322A by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 321B.

[0158] The blank 310 comprises a first outer end panel 330A hinged to the first end of the engaging panel 324 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 327A, and a second outer end panel 330B hinged to the second end of the engaging panel 324 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 327B.

[0159] The engagement panel 324 includes at least one article holding structure ORT3, ORT4. In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement panel 324 comprises a plurality of article holding structures ORT3, ORT4, specifically six article holding structures ORT3, ORT4 arranged in a 3x2 matrix or array. The engagement panel 324 comprises three columns of article holding structures ORT3, ORT4, each column comprising two article holding structures ORT3, ORT4. The engagement panel 324 comprises two rows of article holding structures ORT3, ORT4, each row comprising three article holding structures ORT3, ORT4. Each of the article holding structures ORT3, ORT4 may include openings A5, A6. Each of the article holding structures ORT3 and ORT4 of the blank 310 shown in Figure 8 has substantially the same structure as the respective article holding structures ORT3 and ORT4 of the blank 210 shown in Figure 5 and described above, except that each of the article holding structures ORT3 and ORT4 is equipped with at least one fourth engaging tooth 374.

[0160] The first article holding structure ORT3 comprises a plurality of teeth 364, 366, 368, 374 arranged around the first opening A5. The plurality of teeth 364, 366, 368, 374 each comprise at least one fourth engaging tooth 374, and the illustrated embodiment includes, but is not limited to, a plurality of fourth engaging teeth 374, specifically two fourth engaging teeth 374. A pair of fourth engaging teeth 374 are spaced apart by at least one first engaging tooth 364. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of fourth engaging teeth 374 are spaced apart by three first engaging teeth 364. Each of the fourth engaging teeth 374 is partially defined by a pair of radial cutting lines 381. Each of the pair of radial cutting lines 381 terminates with a curved cutting line or a "J" shaped cutting line. Each of the fourth engaging teeth 374 is hinged to the engaging panel 324 by a hinge connection portion partially defined by a cutting line 373 located midway between a pair of radial cutting lines 381.

[0161] The second article holding structure ORT4 comprises a plurality of teeth 364, 366, 374 arranged around the second opening A6. Each of the plurality of teeth 364, 366, 374 comprises at least one fourth engaging tooth 374, and the illustrated embodiment comprises a plurality of fourth engaging teeth 374, specifically, but not limited to, three fourth engaging teeth 374. Pairs of fourth engaging teeth 374 are separated from each other by at least one first engaging tooth 364, and in the illustrated embodiment, by two first engaging teeth 364. Each of the fourth engaging teeth 374 is partially defined by a pair of radial cutting lines 381. Each of the pair of radial cutting lines 381 terminates with a curved cutting line or a "J" shaped cutting line. Each of the fourth engaging teeth 374 is hinged to the engaging panel 324 by a hinge connection portion partially defined by a cutting line 373 located midway between a pair of radial cutting lines 381.

[0162] The reinforcing panel 320 includes at least one article engagement structure IRT1, IRT2. In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcing panel 320 comprises a plurality of article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2, specifically six article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2 arranged in a 3x2 matrix or array. The reinforcing panel 320 comprises three columns of article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2, each column comprising two article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2. The reinforcing panel 320 comprises two rows of article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2, each row comprising three article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2. Each of the article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2 may comprise openings A1, A2. Each of the article engagement structures IRT1 and IRT2 of the blank 310 shown in Figure 8 is substantially the same in structure as the respective article engagement structures IRT1 and IRT2 of the blank 110 shown in Figure 3 and described above, except that each article engagement structure IRT1 and IRT2 has at least one tooth 348 that is hinged to the reinforcing panel 320 by a hinge connection portion partially defined by a cutting line 349. The first article engagement structure IRT1 has three tabs T a The second article engagement structure IRT2 has two tabs T a It comprises three teeth 348 spaced apart from each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the teeth 348 are located around the inner regions of the first opening A5 and the second opening A6, respectively, in the intermediate or central region of the reinforcing panel 320 or the engaging panel 324.

[0163] The blank 310 includes a handle structure comprising a first handle element H5 provided on the reinforcing panel 320 and a second handle element H6 provided on the engagement panel 324. The illustrated blank comprises a pair of first handle elements H5 and a pair of second handle elements H6. Each of the first handle elements H5 is positioned in the center between groups of four article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2. Each of the second handle elements H6 is positioned in the center between groups of four article holding structures ORT3, ORT4. Each first handle element H5 includes a handle or finger opening, the finger opening may be at least partially defined by a pair of handle tabs. Each handle tab is substantially triangular in shape but has one end cut off to define a blunt end. The pair of handle tabs are separated from each other by a cutting line. Each handle tab is hinged to the reinforcing panel 320 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The fold lines are arranged so that they branch off from each other.

[0164] Each second handle element H6 is provided with a handle or finger opening, the finger opening may be at least partially defined by a pair of second handle tabs 370A, 370B. Each second handle tab 370A, 370B is substantially triangular in shape. The pair of second handle tabs 370A, 370B are separated from each other by a cutting line. Each second handle tab 370A, 370B is hinged to the reinforcing panel 320 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The fold lines are arranged branching relative to each other.

[0165] The second handle tabs 370A and 370B are configured to engage with the reinforcing panel 320 in the area defined by the blunt or truncated end of the first handle opening, as shown in Figure 8A. The ends of the second handle tabs 370A and 370B are configured to pass through the first handle opening and engage with the underside of the reinforcing panel 320, so that the reinforcing panel 320 and the engaging panel 324 are held together before the carrier 390 is applied to the group of articles B. Handle elements H5 and H6 may be used in addition to or instead of adhesive or other bonding treatments to fix the reinforcing panel 320 and the engaging panel 324 in a surface contact relationship before the carrier 390 is applied to the articles B.

[0166] Figure 8B shows a diagram of a pair of article engagement devices formed from article engagement structures IRT1, IRT2 and article holding structures ORT3, ORT4. The illustrated embodiment shows a plurality of teeth 364, 366, 374 and tabs 360, 362 surrounding an article B received by each article engagement device. The second tab 362 is attached to a projection or flange C of the article B. h The flange C of article B is shown below, engaged with article B. h In the illustrated embodiment, this is provided by the end seam or chime of article B. The first, second, and third engaging teeth 364, 366, and 368 are located on flange C h It engages with article B below. The first tab 360 is flange C h It engages with article B below. The fourth engaging tooth 374 forms a contact tab and flange C h It does not engage with article B below. The inner surface of the fourth engaging tooth 374 abuts against article B, specifically the outer wall of the chime or seam of article B.

[0167] In an alternative application, the fourth engaging tooth 374 is located on the flange C hThe fourth engaging teeth 374 may be positioned to engage with article B below, for example, when the carrier 390 is applied to a different article B, such as article B from an alternative manufacturer, where article B may have small differences in size or shape compared to the one shown in Figure 8B, it also allows for a greater tolerance for variations in article size or shape from a given manufacturer or between manufacturing batches or production processes. It will be understood that by providing the fourth engaging teeth 374, when the carrier 390 is applied to article B, movement tolerances of the packaging machine can be compensated for or tolerated. In this way, when the packaging machine presses the carrier 390 further against article B compared to the carrier 390 shown in Figure 8B, the fourth engaging teeth 374 engage with flange C h The below can engage with article B, ensuring that the article engaging device securely engages with article B when carrier 390 is applied.

[0168] Figure 9 shows a blank 410 according to a fifth embodiment for forming a carrier (not shown), the blank 410 comprising an engagement panel 424 and a reinforcing panel 420.

[0169] The blank 410 includes a first side reinforcing panel 418, which is hinged to the first side edge of the reinforcing panel 420 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 419. The second side reinforcing panel 422A is hinged to the opposing side edge of the reinforcing panel 420 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 421A.

[0170] The blank 410 comprises a first inner end panel 428A hinged to the first end of the reinforcing panel 420 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 325A, and a second inner end panel 428B hinged to the second end of the reinforcing panel 420 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 425B.

[0171] The blank 410 comprises a first side panel 422B hinged to a first side of the engagement panel 424 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 421C, and a second side panel 426 hinged to a second side of the engagement panel 424 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 423. The first side panel 422B is hinged to the second side reinforcement panel 422A by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 421B.

[0172] The blank 410 comprises a first outer end panel 430A hinged to the first end of the engaging panel 424 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 427A, and a second outer end panel 430B hinged to the second end of the engaging panel 424 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 427B.

[0173] The reinforcing panel 420 includes at least one article engagement structure IRT5, IRT6. In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcing panel 420 comprises a plurality of article engagement structures IRT5, IRT6, specifically six article engagement structures IRT5, IRT6 arranged in a 3x2 matrix or array. The reinforcing panel 420 comprises three columns of article engagement structures IRT5, IRT6, each column comprising two article engagement structures IRT5, IRT6. The reinforcing panel 420 comprises two rows of article engagement structures IRT5, IRT6, each row comprising three article engagement structures IRT5, IRT6. Each of the article engagement structures IRT5, IRT6 may comprise openings A8, A9. The article engagement structures IRT5 and IRT6 of the blank 410 shown in Figure 9 are substantially the same in structure as the article engagement structures IRT1 and IRT2 of the blank 110 shown in Figure 3 and described above, except that the undulating or wavy cutting lines E8 and E9 defining the openings A8 and A9 are tab T a Each of them is shaped to have a flat or cut-off top. Tab T a The recessed T r Each tab T may occupy a larger portion of the circumference or periphery of openings A8 and A9. a It can occupy or define a sector of a circle having a first angular width, and each recess T rIt can occupy or define a sector of a circle having a second angular width, the second angular width being smaller than the first angular width.

[0174] Each of the article engagement structures IRT5 and IRT6 comprises a first main tab 440, which is punched out from a material otherwise forming a reinforcing panel 420 and is integral with one of the first and second side reinforcing panels 418 and 422A, and the first main tab 440 is at least partially defined by a pair of cutting lines defining the side edge of the first main tab 440. The pair of cutting lines extend from openings A8 and A9 to fold lines 419 and 421A between the reinforcing panel 420 and the first and second side reinforcing panels 418 and 422A, from which the first main tab 440 extends.

[0175] Each of the first article engagement structures IRT5 comprises a second main tab 442, which is punched out from the material otherwise forming the reinforcing panel 420 and is integrated with one of the inner end panels 428A, 428B. The second main tab 442 is at least partially defined by a pair of cutting lines that define the lateral edge of the second main tab 442. The pair of cutting lines extend from the opening A8 to the respective fold lines 425A, 425B between the reinforcing panel 420 and the one of the inner end panels 428A, 428B to which the second main tab 442 extends.

[0176] Each of the article engagement structures IRT5 and IRT6 comprises a pair of third main tabs 444, the third main tabs 444 arranged on both sides of the first main tab 440, and the first main tab 440 separates the pair of third main tabs 444. The first main tab 440 and the pair of third main tabs 444 each have a free edge, the free edge defining a portion of the openings A8 and A9. The free edge of the first main tab 440 is straight, and each free edge of the pair of third main tabs 444 has a straight portion, which is positioned diagonally or branching from the straight free edge of the first main tab 440. At least one of the pair of third main tabs 444 may protrude beyond the free edge of the first main tab 440, so that the free edge of the at least one third main tab 444 may be offset from the free edge of the first main tab 440.

[0177] Each of the first article engagement structures IRT5 comprises a pair of fourth main tabs 446, the fourth main tabs 446 arranged on both sides of the second main tab 442, the second main tab 442 separating the pair of fourth main tabs 446. The second main tab 442 and the pair of fourth main tabs 446 each have a free edge, the free edge defining a portion of the opening A8. The free edge of the second main tab 442 is straight, and the free edge of each of the pair of fourth main tabs 446 has a straight portion, which is positioned diagonally or branching from the straight free edge of the second main tab 442. At least one of the pair of fourth main tabs 446 may protrude beyond the free edge of the second main tab 442, so that the free edge of the at least one fourth main tab 446 may be offset from the free edge of the second main tab 442.

[0178] The engagement panel 424 includes at least one article holding structure ORT5, ORT6. In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement panel 424 comprises a plurality of article holding structures ORT5, ORT6, specifically six article holding structures ORT5, ORT6 arranged in a 3x2 matrix or array. The engagement panel 424 comprises three columns of article holding structures ORT5, ORT6, each column comprising two article holding structures ORT5, ORT6. The engagement panel 424 comprises two rows of article holding structures ORT5, ORT6, each row comprising three article holding structures ORT5, ORT6. Each of the article holding structures ORT5, ORT6 may include openings A10, A11.

[0179] Each of the article holding structures ORT5 and ORT6 comprises a first tab / tooth 460, the first tab 460 being punched out from the material otherwise forming the engagement panel 424 and integral with one of the first and second side panels 422B, 426. The first tab 460 is at least partially defined by a cutting line defining one of the side edges of the first tab 460 and by a notch C1. The cutting line and the notch C1 extend from openings A10, A11 to fold lines 421C, 423 between the engagement panel 424 and the first and second side panels 422B, 426, respectively, from which the first tab 460 extends.

[0180] Each of the first article-holding structures ORT5 is equipped with a second or wide tab / tooth 462, the second or wide tab 462 being punched out from the material otherwise forming the engagement panel 424 and integral with one of the end panels 430A, 430B. The second tab 462 is defined at least partially by a cutting line defining one of the side edges of the second tab 462 and a notch defining the other side edge of the second tab 462. Each of the cutting line and the notch extends from the opening A10 to the respective fold lines 427A, 427B between the engagement panel 424 and the one of the end panels 430A, 430B from which the second tab 462 extends.

[0181] Each of the first article holding structures ORT5 further comprises a plurality of third, fourth, and fifth engaging tabs / teeth 464, 466, 468 punched out from the engaging panel 424 and hinged to the engaging panel by hinge connections. Each hinge connection can be at least partially defined by a circumferential cutting line 465. The third or standard engaging tab 464 is partially defined by a pair of notches C2 in the form of recesses. The recesses C2 define the side edges of the third engaging tab 464 and separate one third engaging tab 464 from another engaging tab 464, 466, or 468. The third engaging tab 464 and the pair of notches C2 are positioned between the first tab 460 and the second tab 462, with each notch C2 defining the side edge of one of the first and second tabs 460, 462. Another side edge of the first tab 460 is defined by a radial cutting line that separates the first tab 460 from the fourth engaging tab 466. Another side edge of the second tab 462 is defined by a radial cutting line that separates the second tab 462 from the fifth engaging tab 468.

[0182] At least one of the fourth or higher engaging tab 466 and the fifth or other higher engaging tab 468 may protrude beyond one adjacent free edge of the first and second tabs 460, 462. In this way, the at least one free edge of the fourth and fifth engaging tabs 466, 468 may be offset from the free edge of the adjacent first or second tab 460, 462.

[0183] Each of the second article holding structures ORT6 comprises a plurality of engaging tabs / teeth 460, 464, 466 punched out from the engaging panel 424 and hinged to the engaging panel by hinge connections. Each hinge connection can be at least partially defined by a circumferential cutting line 465. The second article holding structure ORT6 comprises a third engaging tab 464 and a fourth engaging tab 466. Each of the third engaging tabs 464 is partially defined by a pair of notches C2 in the form of recesses. The recesses C2 define the side edges of the third engaging tab 464 and separate the third engaging tab 464 from the other engaging tabs 464, 466. The second article holding structure ORT6 comprises a pair of fourth engaging tabs 466. The fourth engaging tabs 466 are arranged on both sides of the first tabs 460. The first tab 460 separates the pair of fourth engaging tabs 466. The side edge of the first tab 460 is defined by a cutting line that separates the first tab 460 from one of the fourth engaging tabs 466. The other side edge of the first tab 460 is defined by a cutting line that separates the first tab 460 from the other of the fourth engaging tabs 466.

[0184] At least one of the pair of fourth engaging tabs 466 may protrude beyond the free edge of the first tab 462. In this way, the free edge of at least one fourth engaging tab 466 may be offset from the free edge of the first tab 460.

[0185] The blank 410 has a handle structure comprising a first handle element H5 provided on the reinforcing panel 420 and a second handle element H6 provided on the engaging panel 424. The handle elements H5 and H6 of the blank 410 shown in Figure 9 are substantially the same in structure as the handle elements H5 and H6 of the blank 310 shown in Figure 8 and described above, and will not be described in further detail.

[0186] Figure 10 shows a blank 510 according to a sixth embodiment for forming a carrier 590. Referring to Figure 13, the blank 510 comprises an engagement panel 524 and a reinforcing panel 520. The engagement panel 524 forms the upper ply of the main carrier wall or engagement board 524 / 520, and the reinforcing panel 520 forms the lower ply of the main carrier wall or engagement board 524 / 520.

[0187] The blank 510 includes a first side reinforcing panel 518 hinged to the first side edge of the reinforcing panel 520 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 519. The second side reinforcing panel 522A is hinged to the opposing side edge of the reinforcing panel 520 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 521A.

[0188] The blank 510 comprises a first inner end panel 528A hinged to the first end of the reinforcing panel 520 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 525A, and a second inner end panel 528B hinged to the second end of the reinforcing panel 520 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 525B.

[0189] The blank 510 comprises a first side panel 522B hinged to a first side of the engagement panel 524 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 521C, and a second side panel 526 hinged to a second side of the engagement panel 524 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 523. The first side panel 522B is hinged to the second side reinforcement panel 522A by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 521B.

[0190] The blank 510 comprises a first outer end panel 530A hinged to the first end of the engagement panel 524 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 527A, and a second outer end panel 530B hinged to the second end of the engagement panel 524 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 527B.

[0191] The reinforcing panel 520 includes at least one article engagement structure IRT5. In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcing panel 520 comprises a plurality of article engagement structures IRT5, specifically four article engagement structures IRT5 arranged in a 2x2 matrix or array. The reinforcing panel 520 comprises two columns of article engagement structures IRT5, each column comprising two article engagement structures IRT5. The reinforcing panel 520 comprises two rows of article engagement structures IRT5, each row comprising two article engagement structures IRT5. Each of the article engagement structures IRT5 may comprise an opening A8. Each of the article engagement structures IRT5 of the blank 510 shown in Figure 10 is substantially the same structure as the first article engagement structure IRT5 of the blank 410 shown in Figure 9 and described above.

[0192] Each article engagement structure IRT5 comprises a first main tab 540, which is punched out from the material otherwise forming the reinforcing panel 520 and is integral with one of the first and second side reinforcing panels 518, 522A, and the first main tab 540 is defined at least partially by a pair of cutting lines defining the side edge of the first main tab 540. The pair of cutting lines extend from the opening A8 to the fold lines 519, 521A between the reinforcing panel 520 and one of the first and second side reinforcing panels 518, 522A from which the first main tab 540 extends.

[0193] Each article engagement structure IRT5 comprises a second main tab 542, which is punched out from the material that would otherwise form the reinforcing panel 520 and is integral with one of the inner end panels 528A, 528B. The second main tab 542 is at least partially defined by a pair of cutting lines that define the side edge of the second main tab 542. The pair of cutting lines extend from the opening A8 to the respective fold lines 525A, 525B between the reinforcing panel 520 and the one of the inner end panels 528A, 528B on which the second main tab 542 extends.

[0194] Each article engagement structure IRT5 comprises a pair of third main tabs 544, the third main tabs 544 arranged on either side of a first main tab 540, the first main tab 540 separating the pair of third main tabs 544. The first main tab 540 and the pair of third main tabs 544 each have a free edge, the free edge defining a portion of the opening A8. The free edge of the first main tab 540 is straight, and the free edge of each of the pair of third main tabs 544 has a straight portion, the straight portion being positioned obliquely or branching from the straight free edge of the first main tab 540. At least one of the pair of third main tabs 544 may protrude beyond the free edge of the first main tab 540, so that the free edge of the at least one third main tab 544 may be offset from the free edge of the first main tab 540.

[0195] Each article engagement structure IRT5 comprises a pair of fourth main tabs 546, the fourth main tabs 546 arranged on either side of a second main tab 542, the second main tab 542 separating the pair of fourth main tabs 546. The second main tab 542 and the pair of fourth main tabs 546 each have free edges, the free edges defining a portion of the opening A8. The free edge of the second main tab 542 is straight, and the free edge of each of the pair of fourth main tabs 546 has a straight portion, the straight portion being positioned obliquely or branching from the straight free edge of the second main tab 542. At least one of the pair of fourth main tabs 546 may protrude beyond the free edge of the second main tab 542, so that the free edge of the at least one fourth main tab 546 may be offset from the free edge of the second main tab 542.

[0196] The engagement panel 524 includes at least one article holding structure ORT5. In the illustrated embodiment, the engagement panel 524 comprises a plurality of article holding structures ORT5, specifically four article holding structures ORT5 arranged in a 2x2 matrix or array. The engagement panel 524 comprises two columns of article holding structures ORT5, each column comprising two article holding structures ORT5. The engagement panel 524 comprises two rows of article holding structures ORT5, each row comprising two article holding structures ORT5. Each of the article holding structures ORT5 may include an opening A10.

[0197] Each of the article holding structures ORT5 is provided with a first tab or teeth 560, the first tab 560 being punched out from the material otherwise forming the engagement panel 524 and integral with one of the first and second side panels 522B, 526. The first tab 560 is at least partially defined by a cutting line defining one of the side edges of the first tab 560 and by a notch C1. The cutting line and the notch C1 extend from the opening A10 to the fold lines 521C, 523 between the engagement panel 524 and the first side panel 522B and the second side panel 526, respectively, on which the first tab 560 extends.

[0198] Each of the article-holding structures ORT5 is provided with a second or broad tab or teeth 562, the second or broad tab 562 being punched out from a material which would otherwise form an engagement panel 524 and integral with one of the end panels 530A, 530B. The second tab 562 is defined at least partially by a cutting line defining one of the side edges of the second tab 562 and a notch defining the other side edge of the second tab 562. Each of the cutting line and the notch extends from the opening A10 to the respective fold lines 527A, 527B between the engagement panel 524 and the one of the end panels 530A, 530B from which the second tab 562 extends.

[0199] Each of the first article holding structures ORT5 further comprises a plurality of third, fourth, and fifth engaging tabs or teeth 564, 566, 568 punched out from the engaging panel 524 and hinged to the engaging panel by hinge connections. Each hinge connection can be at least partially defined by a circumferential cutting line 565. The third or standard engaging tab 564 is partially defined by a pair of notches C2 in the form of recesses. The recesses C2 define the side edges of the third engaging tab 564 and separate one third engaging tab 564 from another engaging tab 564, 566, or 568. The third engaging tab 564 and the pair of notches C2 are positioned between the first tab 560 and the second tab 562, with each notch C2 defining the side edge of one of the first and second tabs 460, 462. Another side edge of the first tab 460 is defined by a radial cutting line that separates the first tab 560 from the fourth engaging tab 566. Another side edge of the second tab 562 is defined by a radial cutting line that separates the second tab 562 from the fifth engaging tab 468.

[0200] At least one of the fourth or higher engaging tab 566 and the fifth or other higher engaging tab 568 may protrude beyond the free edge of one adjacent free edge of the first and second tabs 560, 562. In this way, the at least one free edge of the fourth and fifth engaging tabs 566, 568 may be offset from the free edge of the adjacent first or second tab 560, 562.

[0201] The blank 510 includes a handle structure comprising a first handle element H7 provided on the reinforcing panel 520 and a second handle element H8 provided on the engagement panel 524. The first handle element H7 includes a first handle opening defined on the reinforcing panel 520. The first handle opening is located in the center between four article engagement structures IRT5. The first handle opening is defined by at least one handle flap 570A, 570B, 572A, 572B. The illustrated embodiment includes four handle flaps 570A, 570B, 572A, 572B, each hinged to the reinforcing panel 520 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The first pair of handle flaps 570A, 570B are separated from the second pair of handle flaps 572A, 572B via a cutting line or a weakening line for cutting. The cutting line or the weakening line for cutting may have a nonlinear shape.

[0202] Each of the first pair of handle flaps 570A and 570B is separated from the other of the first pair of handle flaps 570A and 570B by a first cutting line, the first cutting line may be straight. Each of the second pair of handle flaps 572A and 572B is separated from the other of the second pair of handle flaps 572A and 572B by a second cutting line, the second cutting line may be straight. The second cutting line may be collinear with the first cutting line.

[0203] The second handle element H8 comprises a second handle opening defined within the engagement panel 524. The second handle opening is positioned centrally between the four article-holding structures ORT5. The second handle opening is positioned perpendicular to the first handle opening. The second handle opening is defined by at least one handle flap 574A, 574B, 576A, 576B. The illustrated embodiment comprises four handle flaps 574A, 574B, 576A, 576B, each hinged to the engagement panel 524 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The first pair of handle flaps 574A, 574B are separated from the second pair of handle flaps 576A, 576B via a cutting line or a weakening line for cutting. The cutting line or weakening line for cutting may be of a nonlinear shape.

[0204] Each of the first pair of handle flaps 574A and 574B is separated from the other of the first pair of handle flaps 574A and 574B by a first cutting line, the first cutting line may be straight. Each of the second pair of handle flaps 576A and 576B is separated from the other of the second pair of handle flaps 576A and 576B by a second cutting line, the second cutting line may be straight. The second cutting line may be collinear with the first cutting line.

[0205] The handle structure is centered C as shown in Figure 12. f It is equipped with, and each of the article openings A8 / A10 is centered C a It is equipped with the center C of the handle structure. f and the center C of the article opening A8 / A10 a These define conceptual lines NL1 and NL2. Conceptual lines NL1 and NL2 bisect the recess C2 between adjacent pairs of teeth 564 in the first ply provided by the engagement panel 524. Conceptual lines NL1 and NL2 bisect the adjacent pairs of recesses T in the second ply provided by the reinforcing panel 520. r Tab T between a Divide it into two equal parts. Tab T aThe lines are aligned perpendicularly to the recess C2 of the engagement panel 524. Conceptual lines NL1 and NL2 also intersect with the hinge connections F3 of a pair of handle flaps 570A / 576A, 570B / 576B, 572A / 574A, and 572B / 574B, which are positioned adjacent to the recess C2. The pairs of handle flaps 570A / 576A, 570B / 576B, 572A / 574A, and 572B / 574B are positioned in surface contact with each other.

[0206] Referring to Figure 14, a blank 610 is shown comprising several panels 312, 314, 316, 318, 320, 322, 324, and 326, including a main panel 316 for forming the lower wall or engagement panel of the carrier 690 (see Figure 15).

[0207] The first side panel 314 is hinged to the first side of the main panel 316 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 315. The first top panel or cover panel 312 is hinged to the first side panel 314 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 313.

[0208] The second side panel 318 is hinged to the second side of the main panel 316 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 317. The second top panel or cover panel 320 is hinged to the second side panel 318 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 319.

[0209] The blank 610 comprises a plurality of beam panels 322, 324, and 316 for forming a brace or keel structure to increase the rigidity of the carrier 690. The brace or keel structure can take the form of beams extending in the longitudinal direction of the carrier 690.

[0210] Multiple beam panels 322, 324, and 326 are hinged to a second upper panel 320. The first beam panel 322 is hinged to the second upper panel 320 by hinge connections in the form of fold lines 321. The second beam panel 324, also referred to herein as a floor panel 324, is hinged to the first beam panel 322 by hinge connections in the form of fold lines 323. The third beam panel 326 is hinged to the second beam panel 324 by hinge connections in the form of fold lines 325.

[0211] The first upper panel 312, the second upper panel 320, the first and second side panels 314 and 316, and the main panel 316 form a tubular structure. Each end of the tubular structure is closed by an end closure structure. In the blank 610, the optional upper end flap of the previous embodiment is omitted.

[0212] The main panel 316 comprises a plurality of article holding structures RT, specifically, four article holding structures RT arranged in a 2x2 matrix or array, but not limited to these. Each article holding structure RT has an article receiving opening defined by a plurality of article engaging teeth or tabs 360, 362, 364, 366. The plurality of article engaging teeth or tabs 360, 362, 364, 366 comprises a first pair of opposing teeth 360, 366 and a second pair of opposing teeth 362, 364, the second pair of teeth 362, 364 being positioned between the first pair of opposing teeth 360, 366. The second pair of teeth 362, 364 are separated from each other by a nonlinear cutting line, the nonlinear cutting line defining a recess in the first tooth 362 and a convex portion in the second tooth 364. Each of the second pair of teeth 362, 364 is hinged to the main panel 316 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 363, 365. One of the first pair of opposing teeth 360, 366, which are located adjacent to or near the end panels 328, 330, is hinged to the main panel 316 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 361. The fold line 361 may be collinear with or coincide with the fold lines 327, 329 that hinge the end panels 328, 330 to the main panel 316. The other of the first pair of opposing teeth 360, 366 is hinged to the main panel 316 by a hinge connection not defined by a fold line, cutting line, or fold line.

[0213] Each article holding structure RT is equipped with an access or tear-initiating device AD, the access device AD ​​taking the form of a tear-initiating tab 370, partly formed on one of the side panels 314, 318 and partly formed on the main panel 316. Each tear-initiating tab 370 is defined by tear lines or cutting lines 373, 375.

[0214] It is configured to at least partially isolate, remove, or facilitate the displacement of at least one of the engaging teeth 364, 366. When the tear-initiating device AD ​​is deployed, the article holding structure RT is impaired, reducing its grip or retention of the article B within it, and creating space or gaps to facilitate the manipulation of the article B from the carrier 690.

[0215] The blank 610 may also include a panel fixing device that provides a handle structure. The fixing device comprises a first portion H1 provided on the first upper panel 312, a second portion H2 provided on the second beam panel 324, and a third portion H3 provided on the main panel 316. The first portion H1 includes a handle opening at least partially defined by a handle opening A5. The handle opening is positioned on a longitudinal axis that bisects the upper or cover panel 312. The handle opening is perpendicularly aligned with a second portion H2 of a panel fixing device provided on the second beam panel 324 and a third portion H3 provided on the main panel 316. The handle opening may be partially defined by at least one foldable tab 352. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle opening is partially defined by a pair of foldable tabs 352, which are longitudinally spaced apart from each other by the handle opening A5. Each of the pair of foldable tabs 352 is punched out of or defined within the cover panel 312 and hinged to the cover panel 312 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 351. The first tab of a pair of foldable tabs 352 is hinged opposite the second tab of the pair of foldable tabs 352, and the fold line 351, which is the hinge connection, defines the opposing ends of the handle opening.

[0216] The foldable tab 352 forms a locking tab 352 for securing the cover panel 312 to the main panel 316 and / or the second beam panel 324. The locking tab 352 includes a pair of notches A6 defined by an opening in the blank form. The notches A6 define recesses on the opposing side edges of the locking tab 352 when the locking tab 352 is folded away from the plane of the upper panel 312. The notches A6 define a waist portion of the locking tab 352, which separates the body portion of the locking tab 352 from the head portion. The notches A6 have the effect of forming a shoulder portion or stopper to resist disengaging the locking tab 352 from the receiving portion. The first portion H1 includes a pair of handle flaps 356A, 356B, which form part of the handle opening. A first handle flap 356A is positioned on the first side of the handle opening A5, and a second handle flap 356B is positioned on the second opposite side of the handle opening A5. The first handle flap 356A is punched out from the cover panel 312 and hinged to the cover panel by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 355A. The first handle flap 356A is partially defined by a first cutting line, the first cutting line comprising a longitudinal element opposite the hinge connection defined by the fold line 355A. The longitudinal element may be nonlinear and may have an undulating or wavy shape. A section of the longitudinal element defines at least a portion of the first side edge of the first locking tab 352. The first handle flap 356A and the first locking tab 352 share a common cutting line. A section of the longitudinal element defines at least a portion of the first side edge of the second locking tab 352. The first handle flap 356A and the second locking tab 352 share a common cutting line. The first cutting line comprises a pair of transverse elements extending between the longitudinal element and the fold line 355A, the pair of transverse elements defining a longitudinal length dimension between them. The longitudinal length dimension may be less than the distance between the fold lines 351 of the pair of foldable tabs 352.

[0217] The second handle flap 356B is punched out from the cover panel 312 and hinged to the cover panel by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 355B. The second handle flap 356B is partially defined by a second cutting line, the second cutting line comprising a longitudinal element opposite to the hinge connection defined by the fold line 355B. The longitudinal element may be nonlinear and may have an undulating or wavy shape. A section of the longitudinal element defines at least a portion of the second opposing side edge of the first locking tab 352. The second handle flap 356B and the first locking tab 352 share a common cutting line. A section of the longitudinal element defines at least a portion of the second opposing side edge of the second locking tab 352. The second handle flap 356B and the second locking tab 352 share a common cutting line. The second cutting line comprises a pair of transverse elements extending between the longitudinal element and the fold line 355B, the pair of transverse elements defining a longitudinal length dimension between them. The longitudinal length dimension may be less than the distance between the fold lines 351 of the pair of foldable tabs 352.

[0218] A second portion H2 of the panel fixing device provided on the second beam panel 324 includes a receiving portion for receiving locking tabs 352, the receiving portion taking the form of a pair of spaced-apart receiving openings. Each receiving opening may be defined by a receiving tab 354 punched out of or defined within the second beam panel 324. The receiving tabs 354 are hinged to the second beam panel 324, facing each other. Each receiving tab 354 may be configured to engage with one of the locking tabs 352 and may be hinged facing each of the locking tabs 352. Each receiving tab 354 is defined by a cutting line or decoupling line 353, the cutting line 353 comprising a middle portion and a pair of margin portions extending therefrom. The margin portions are branched relative to each other and may be curved or arched in shape. The margin portions may be terminated with "J" or "C" shaped notches. The intermediate portion comprises a first straight portion extending laterally from the second beam panel 324 and a pair of second straight portions extending vertically from the second beam panel 324. The second straight portions extend between the end of the first straight portion and one of the margin portions, thereby forming a continuous cutting line or separation line.

[0219] A third portion H3 of the panel fixing device provided on the main panel 316 includes a second receiving portion for receiving locking tabs 352, the second receiving portion taking the form of a pair of spaced-apart second receiving openings. The pair of openings are positioned in the center between the groups of four article holding structures RT. Each second receiving opening may be defined by a second receiving tab 350 punched out of or defined within the main panel 316. The second receiving tabs 350 are hinged to the main panel 316, facing each other. Each second receiving tab 350 may be configured to engage with one of each of the locking tabs 352, and may be hinged to each of the locking tabs 352. Each second receiving tab 350 is defined by a second cutting line or separation line 349, the second cutting line 349 comprising a central portion and a pair of margin portions extending therefrom. The margin portions are arranged branching from one another and may be curved or arched in shape. The margin portions may be terminated with "J" or "C" shaped cutouts. The central portion comprises a first straight portion extending laterally from the main panel 316 and a pair of waist-defining portions extending between the end of the first straight portion and one of the margin portions, thereby forming a continuous cutting line or separation line. The pair of waist-defining portions may be arranged to converge toward each other at least along their respective portions.

[0220] The user can insert one or more fingers through the handle opening in the upper panel 312 and through the pair of openings in the second beam panel 324 and the main panel 316 to carry the carrier 690. The user can insert at least two fingers through the handle opening in the upper panel 312, at least one finger can be inserted into the first pair of aligned receiving openings in the second beam panel 324 and the main panel 316, and at least one finger can be inserted into the second pair of aligned receiving openings in the second beam panel 324 and the main panel 316. The elongated shape of the handle opening in the upper panel 312 facilitates access to and visibility of the openings in the second beam panel 324 and the main panel 316 below it, so that the user can easily engage with the second beam panel 324 and the main panel 316. Handle flaps 356A and 356B can protect or cushion the user's hand when it is inserted into the interior of the carrier 690. The first and third beam panels 322, 326 of the keel structure can also protect the user's hands or prevent them from engaging with the article B. In this way, the user can securely engage with the carrier 690 and transport the article B, which is held securely within it. The handle flaps 356A, 356B allow for an enlargement of the handle opening in the upper panel 312, enabling the user to insert their hand or part of it into the interior of the carrier 690.

[0221] Referring to Figure 16, a blank 710 is shown comprising several panels 112, 114, 116, 118, and 120, including a main panel 112 for forming the lower wall or engaging panel of carrier 790 (see Figure 18). The end closure structure is configured to interlock with the inner upper panel flaps 138A and 138B, but the blank 710 is substantially similar in structure to the blank 610 in Figure 14.

[0222] The first end closure structure comprises a first end panel 122A hinged to the first end of the main panel 112 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The first end panel 122A comprises a locking tab T1 extending from a free edge, the free edge facing a hinge edge defined by the hinge connection to the main panel 112. The locking tab T1 may be defined by a pair of notches in the form of a recess R1 punched out from or defined within the free edge of the first end panel 122A. The locking tab T1 forms part of a complementary locking structure.

[0223] The first anchor flap 128A is hinged to the first end of the first upper panel 118 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The first anchor flap 128A is hinged to the second anchor flap 126A by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The second anchor flap 126A is hinged to the first end of the first side panel 114 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line.

[0224] The first connecting panel 124A is hinged to the second anchor flap 126A by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The first connecting panel 124A is hinged to the first end panel 122A by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line.

[0225] The first side panel 114 is separated from the first connecting panel 124A by an opening. The opening separates the first connecting panel 124A and the second anchor flap 126A from the main panel 112.

[0226] The first inner upper panel flap 138A is hinged to the first end of the second upper panel 120 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 137A. The first inner upper panel flap 138A is hinged to the fourth anchor flap 132A by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The fourth anchor flap 132A is hinged to the first end of the second side panel 116 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The first inner upper panel flap 138A extends substantially across the first end of the second upper panel 120. The first inner upper panel flap 138A includes a pair of notches in the form of recesses R3. Each of the recesses R3 is configured to align with each of a pair of openings A2 in the second upper panel 120, which are located in close proximity to or adjacent to the first end of the second upper panel 120. The first inner upper panel flap 138A is provided with a tab receiving opening A6 that forms part of a complementary locking structure.

[0227] The second connecting panel 130A is hinged to the fourth anchor flap 132A by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The second connecting panel 130A is hinged to the first end panel 122A by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line.

[0228] The second side panel 116 is separated from the second connecting panel 130A by an opening. The opening separates the second connecting panel 130A and the fourth anchor flap 132A from the main panel 112.

[0229] The second end closure structure comprises a second end panel 122B hinged to the first end of the main panel 112 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The second end panel 122B includes a locking tab T2 extending from a free edge, the free edge facing a hinge edge defined by the hinge connection to the main panel 112. The locking tab T2 may be defined by a pair of notches in the form of recesses R2 punched out from or defined within the free edge of the second end panel 122B. The locking tab T2 forms part of a complementary locking structure.

[0230] The fifth anchor flap 128B is hinged to the first end of the first upper panel 118 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The fifth anchor flap 128B is hinged to the sixth anchor flap 126B by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The sixth anchor flap 126B is hinged to the second end of the first side panel 114 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line.

[0231] The third connecting panel 124B is hinged to the sixth anchor flap 126B by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The third connecting panel 124B is hinged to the second end panel 122B by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line.

[0232] The first side panel 114 is separated from the third connecting panel 124B by an opening. The opening separates the third connecting panel 124B and the sixth anchor flap 126B from the main panel 112.

[0233] The second inner upper panel flap 138B is hinged to the first end of the second upper panel 120 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 137B. The second inner upper panel flap 138B is hinged to the eighth anchor flap 132B by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The eighth anchor flap 132B is hinged to the second end of the second side panel 116 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The second inner upper panel flap 138B extends substantially across the second end of the second upper panel 120. The second inner upper panel flap 138B includes a pair of notches in the form of recesses R4. Each of the recesses R4 is configured to align with each of a pair of openings A2 in the second upper panel 120, which are located in close proximity to or adjacent to the first end of the second upper panel 120. The second inner upper panel flap 138B is provided with a tab receiving opening A6 that forms part of a complementary locking structure.

[0234] The fourth connecting panel 130B is hinged to the eighth anchor flap 132B by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line. The fourth connecting panel 130B is hinged to the first end panel 122B by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line.

[0235] The second side panel 116 is separated from the fourth connecting panel 130B by an opening. The opening separates the fourth connecting panel 130B and the eighth anchor flap 132B from the main panel 112.

[0236] In the operating position, the first end panel 122B is folded upward relative to the main panel 112, and the tab T2 is received by the tab receiving opening A6 of the second inner upper panel flap 138B. The second inner upper panel flap 138B is folded so as to face the second upper panel 120. The second inner upper panel flap 138B and the second upper panel 120 are arranged so as to at least partially overlap or overlap the first upper panel 118. A portion of the second inner upper panel flap 138B is positioned between the second upper panel 120 and the first upper panel 118.

[0237] The main panel 112 of the blank 710 includes at least one article holding structure RT. The main panel 112 comprises a plurality of article holding structures RT, specifically six article holding structures RT arranged in a 2x3 matrix or array. Each article holding structure RT has an article receiving opening at least partially defined by engaging tabs or teeth 140A, 140B.

[0238] The article holding structure RT includes a first engaging tab 140A punched out from the main panel 112 and hinged to the main panel by a fold line 141A. A second engaging tab 140A punched out from the main panel 112 and hinged to the main panel by a fold line 141B. The second engaging tab 140B is hinged opposite the first engaging tab 140A. The second engaging tab 140B is separated from the first engaging tab 140A by a cutting line.

[0239] The first upper panel 118 includes at least one article receiving opening A5, and the illustrated embodiment includes three article receiving openings A5, each receiving one article B adjacent to the first side panel 114. The article receiving openings A5 extend into the first beam panel 118B and may be substantially elliptical or egg-shaped. Each article receiving opening A5 may include at least one engaging tooth 146 punched out from the first beam panel 118B and extending from the first beam panel 118B into the receiving opening A5. The illustrated embodiment includes a pair of engaging teeth 146 that are partially defined and separated from each other by a cutting line 147 that extends substantially radially outward from the article receiving opening A5. Each of the pair of engaging teeth 146 is hinged to the first beam panel 118B by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 149.

[0240] The second beam panel 118C comprises at least one first locking element L1, and the illustrated embodiment comprises two first locking elements L1. The first locking element L1 takes the form of a locking tab receiving opening and may be defined by a first locking tab 180 that is punched out of the second beam panel 118C or defined within the second beam panel and hinged to the second beam panel. The first locking tab 180 comprises a head or distal portion, the head or distal portion being wider than the proximal or intermediate portion of the first locking tab 180. In this way, the locking tab receiving opening comprises a wide portion at one end, defining a waist or limiting portion. In the embodiment shown in Figure 16, the locking tab receiving opening and / or the first locking tab 180 is generally wider than the second beam panel 118C. The locking tab receiving opening and / or the first locking tab 180, or at least a portion thereof, interrupts the hinge connection between the second beam panel 118C and each of the first and third beam panels 118B, 118D. The locking tab receiving opening and / or the first locking tab 180 comprises a pair of opposing arcuate cutting line sections extending to one of each of the third beam panel 118D and the first beam panel 118B. The third locking element RC takes the form of an opening in the main panel 112, which may be defined by respective receiving tabs 170 punched out of the main panel 112 and hinged to the main panel. The openings in the main panel 112 and / or the receiving tabs 170 are similar in shape to the locking tab receiving opening and / or the first locking tab 180. The receiving tabs 170 are hinged to the main panel 112 by hinge connections in the form of fold lines 171.

[0241] The fold line 117, which is the hinge connection between the first side panel 114 and the first upper panel 118, may be interrupted by a cutting line CT, which may be substantially "U" shaped to define tabs Ts punched out from the first upper panel 118. The tabs Ts are integral with the first side panel 114 and extend from there. The blank 710 may have a pair of cutting lines CT, each defining a tab Ts. The first tabs Ts may be positioned close to the first end of the fold line 117, and the second tabs Ts may be positioned close to the second opposing end of the fold line 117. The tabs Ts may form contact portions that engage with the edge of the second upper panel 120 to align the second upper panel 120 and / or prevent or restrict relative movement of the second upper panel 120 with respect to the first upper panel 118.

[0242] In some embodiments, the tab may be hinged to the second upper panel 120, and the tab may be partially defined by a cutting line CT and inserted into a slot or opening in the first upper panel 118 that is formed when the first upper panel 118 is folded relative to the first side panel 114.

[0243] The blank 710 may include a pair of second locking tabs 150, which are spaced longitudinally apart by the handle opening A7. Each of the pair of second locking tabs 150 is punched out of or defined within the second upper panel 120 and hinged to the second upper panel 120 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 151. The first tab of the pair of foldable tabs 150 is hinged opposite the second tab of the pair of foldable tabs 150, and the hinge connection, i.e., the fold line 151, defines the opposing ends of the handle opening.

[0244] The second locking tab 150 is configured to secure the second upper panel 120 to the engagement panel 112 and / or the second beam panel 118C. The second locking tab 150 includes a pair of notches 153. The pair of notches 153 extend inward from opposing side edges of the tab 150. Each of the pair of notches may be nonlinear or curved in shape. The notches 153 define a return or shoulder of the locking tab 150 for engaging with the portion surrounding the opening of the engagement panel 112 and / or the second beam panel 118C. A fold line 155 may extend from the inner end of each notch 153 toward the side edge of the tab 150 from which the notch 153 extends. In this way, a pair of opposing wings 154 are defined on each second locking tab 150. The fold line 155 may be positioned to facilitate folding the wing portion 154 so that it faces one of the inclined beam panels 118B, 118D, the first beam panel 118B, and the third beam panel 118D, as best shown in Figure 18. The second locking tab 150 and the handle opening A7 are exposed to view the openings in the engaging panel 112 and / or create a handle opening that makes those openings more accessible for the user to engage. In this way, the user can grasp the engaging panel 112 to transport the carrier 790.

[0245] Optionally, the first upper panel 118 can be fixed to the second upper panel 120 by adhesive G or other bonding treatment, as shown in Figure 17.

[0246] Referring to Figure 19, a blank 810 is shown comprising several panels 212, 214, 216, 218, and 220, including a main panel 212 for forming the lower wall or engagement panel of a carrier (not shown). The blank 810 is substantially similar in structure to the blank 710 in Figure 16, but the blank 810 is configured to accommodate eight articles arranged in a 2x4 matrix or array. The second upper panel 220 comprises eight second article receiving openings in the form of openings A2, arranged in a 2x4 matrix or array, and each second article receiving opening is configured to be positioned perpendicularly to one of the eight article holding structures RT3 provided on the main panel 212.

[0247] The first upper panel 218 is provided with four article receiving openings A5, each receiving one article from each of the articles disposed adjacent to the first side panel 214. The article receiving openings A5 extend into the first beam panel 218B and may be substantially elliptical or egg-shaped.

[0248] Each of the article holding structures RT3 in the embodiment shown in Figure 19 takes the form of a pair of teeth or tabs 240A, 240B that are positioned opposite each other and separated from each other by an opening A8, and the tabs 240A, 240B and the opening A8 together form an article receiving opening.

[0249] The blank 810 includes a panel fixing device, which comprises at least one first locking element L1 on the second beam panel 218C, at least one second locking element on the second upper panel 220, and at least one third locking element RC on the main panel 212.

[0250] In the illustrated embodiment, the first upper panel 218 comprises a pair of first locking elements L1. The second upper panel 220 comprises a pair of second locking elements, and the main panel 212 comprises a pair of third locking elements RC. The first locking element of the pair of third locking elements RC is positioned in the center between the first group of four article holding structures RT3, and the second locking element of the pair of third locking elements RC is positioned in the center between the second group of four article holding structures RT3. The four article holding structures RT3 of the second group are positioned adjacent to the four article holding structures RT3 of the first group.

[0251] The second upper panel 220 comprises a pair of second locking elements, each taking the form of a second locking tab 250, the pair of second locking tabs 250 spaced longitudinally apart by the handle opening A9. Each of the pair of second locking tabs 150 is punched out of or defined within the second upper panel 220 and hinged to the second upper panel 220 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 251. The first tab of the pair of foldable tabs 250 is hinged opposite the second tab of the pair of foldable tabs 250, and the hinge connection, i.e., the fold line 251, defines the opposing ends of the handle opening.

[0252] The second locking tab 250 is configured to secure the second upper panel 220 to the engagement panel 212 and / or the second beam panel 218C.

[0253] The handle opening A9 extends between the free end of the first tab of the second locking tab 150 and the free end of the second tab of the second locking tab 150. The handle opening A9 is substantially longitudinal of the second upper panel 220 and has opposing side edges, each having a corrugated or undulating shape. In this way, the handle opening A9 is spaced apart from the pair of article receiving openings A2 disposed on either side of the handle opening A9.

[0254] The first of a pair of foldable tabs 250 is positioned in the center between the first group of four article receiving openings A2. The second of the pair of foldable tabs 250 is positioned in the center between the second group of four article receiving openings A2. The four article receiving openings A2 of the second group are positioned adjacent to the four article receiving openings A2 of the first group.

[0255] The blank 810 includes a handle opening in the engagement panel 212, the handle opening may be defined by one or more tabs 272, 274. The illustrated embodiment includes a pair of handle tabs 272, 274 punched out from the engagement panel 212 and hinged to the engagement panel by their respective fold lines 273, 275. The handle opening may be engaged by a user to transport a carton, together with one of the openings in the engagement panel 212 defined by a third locking element RC. The second beam panel 218C includes a second handle opening configured to be positioned perpendicular to the handle opening of the engagement panel 212. The second handle opening may be defined by one or more tabs 282, 284. The illustrated embodiment includes a pair of handle tabs 282, 284 punched out from at least the second beam panel 218C and hinged to the second beam panel 218C. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of handle tabs 282, 284 are partially punched out from the first and third beam panels 218B, 218D, respectively. The first and second handle openings are positioned perpendicular to the handle opening A9 and are not configured to engage with the locking tabs provided by the second upper panel 220.

[0256] The first handle opening is positioned between the openings of the engagement panel 212 defined by the third locking element RC, and is located in the center between the central or intermediate group of the four article holding structures RT3.

[0257] The second handle opening is positioned between the pair of first locking elements L1.

[0258] The present disclosure provides upper engagement type carriers 90; 190; 290; 390; 590, 690, 790 having retaining or engaging structures ORT1, ORT2, ORT3, ORT4, ORT5, ORT6, IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4, IRT5, IRT6 for engaging an article B.

[0259] Carriers 90; 190; 290; 390; 590 can include two-ply engagement panels 20 / 24; 120 / 124; 220 / 224; 320 / 324; 420 / 424; 520 / 524. The two-ply engagement panels 20 / 24; 120 / 124; 220 / 224; 320 / 324; 420 / 424; 520 / 524 can include engagement panels 24; 124; 224; 324; 424; 524 and reinforcing panels 20; 120; 220; 320; 420; 520. Each ply of the two-ply engagement panels 20 / 24; 120 / 124; 220 / 224; 320 / 324; 420 / 424; 520 / 524 comprises retaining or engaging structures ORT1, ORT2, ORT3, ORT4, ORT5, ORT6, IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4, IRT5, IRT6. The retaining or engaging structures ORT1, ORT2, ORT3, ORT4, ORT5, ORT6, IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4, IRT5, IRT6 in the first ply are aligned with the retaining or engaging structures ORT1, ORT2, ORT3, ORT4, ORT5, ORT6, IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4, IRT5, IRT6 in the second ply.

[0260] The reinforcing panel 20; 120; 220; 320; 420 may be a partial reinforcing panel 20 that extends in a partially overlapping relationship with the engaging panel 24. The partial reinforcing panel 20 forms a partial two-ply engaging panel 20 / 24 together with the engaging panel 24. The partial two-ply engaging panel 20 / 24 includes a two-ply region and a single-ply region. The partial reinforcing panel 20 includes at least one partial retaining or engaging structure IRT3, IRT4 that is aligned and disposed with the retaining or engaging structures ORT1, ORT2 of the engaging panel 24, forming partial two-ply article engaging devices IRT3 / ORT1, IRT4 / ORT2, that is, article engaging devices IRT3 / ORT1, IRT4 / ORT2 having a partial two-ply structure.

[0261] The partial reinforcing panel 20 is hinge-connected to the engaging panel 24 by a hinge connection in the form of a first fold line F2, and the first fold line F2 is offset with respect to the side edge of the engaging panel 24 adjacent to the partial reinforcing panel 20.

[0262] The carrier 90 can include at least one partial side panel 22 that is hinge-connected to the side edge of the engaging panel 24 adjacent to the partial reinforcing panel 20. The at least one partial side panel 22 can be considered to extend into the openings A3, A4 of the partial retaining or engaging structures IRT3, IRT4 in blank form. The at least one partial side panel 22 defines an edge or a part of the periphery of the openings A3, A4 of the partial retaining or engaging structures IRT3, IRT4 in blank form.

[0263] The partial retaining or engaging structures IRT3, IRT4 may include main tabs 42. The main tabs 42 extend from end panels 28A, 28B that are hinge-connected to the partial reinforcing panel 20. The main tabs 42 are disposed adjacent to the partial side panel 22 and are separated therefrom by a notch, which takes the form of a cutting line in the illustrated embodiment.

[0264] The engaging panels 24;124;224;324;424 may be connected to the reinforcing panels 20;120;220;320;420 by a pair of connecting panels 122A, 122B;222A, 222B;322A, 322B;422A, 422B. Of the pair of connecting panels 122A, 122B;222A, 222B;322A, 322B;422A, 422B, the first connecting panel is hinged to the pair of connecting panels 122A, 122B;222A, 222B;322A, 322B;422A, 422B, the second connecting panel. Each of the pair of connecting panels 122A, 122B; 222A, 222B; 322A, 322B; 422A, 422B may have at least one article engaging tooth 140, 160; 240, 260; 340, 360; 440, 460 extending therefrom to form two-ply engaging teeth 140 / 160; 240 / 260; 340 / 360; 440 / 460. The two plies of the two-ply engaging teeth 140 / 160, 240 / 260, 340 / 360, 440 / 460 may be bonded to each other. The two-ply engaging teeth 140 / 160, 240 / 260, 340 / 360, 440 / 460 can be bonded to the side panel 112 to form a three-ply side panel of the article carrier 190.

[0265] The disclosure also provides an upper engagement type article carrier 90;190;290 comprising a main panel 20;120;220 having at least one article engagement structure IRT1, IRT2, IRT3. The at least one article engagement structure IRT1, IRT2, IRT3 includes openings A1, A2, A3 which are at least partially defined by a plurality of engagement teeth 40, 44, 42, 46; 140, 144, 142, 146; 240, 244, 242, 246. Each of the plurality of engagement teeth 40, 44, 42, 46; 140, 144, 142, 146; 240, 244, 242, 246 has a free edge that defines a portion of the openings A1, A2, A3. At least one of the multiple engaging teeth 40, 44, 42, 46; 140, 144, 142, 146; 240, 244, 242, 246 has a free edge portion that is aligned in the same line with one adjacent free edge portion of the multiple engaging teeth 40, 44, 42, 46; 140, 144, 142, 146; 240, 244, 242, 246. The at least one free edge portion of the multiple engaging teeth 40, 44, 42, 46; 140, 144, 142, 146; 240, 244, 242, 246 is positioned adjacent to the free edge portions of the adjacent engaging teeth 40, 44, 42, 46; 140, 144, 142, 146; 240, 244, 242, 246.

[0266] The disclosure also provides an upper-engaging type article carrier 90;190 comprising a first main panel 14;114 and second main panels 20, 24;120, 124 spaced apart from the first main panel 14;114. The second main panels 20, 24;120, 124 may comprise at least one article engagement structure ORT1, ORT2, ORT3, ORT4, ORT5, ORT6, ORT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4, IRT5, IRT6. The first main panel 14;114 comprises a pair of locking tabs or male tabs 50;150 punched out from the first main panel 14;114 and hinged to the first main panel, facing each other. A pair of locking tabs 50;150 are separated by an opening A7, which forms an observation window from which a portion of the second main panels 20, 24;120,124 can be observed. A portion of the second main panels 20, 24;120,124 may be provided with a pair of receiving openings, the locking tabs 50;150 are received into each of the pair of receiving openings, and each receiving opening provides a handle for transporting the article carrier 90;190.

[0267] Each receptive opening may be defined by at least one receptive or female tab 70A, 70B, 72 punched out from the second main panels 20, 24; 120, 124 and hinged to the second main panels by their respective hinge connections. Each receptive opening may also be defined by three receptive tabs 70A, 70B, 72, which include a pair of receptive tabs 70A, 70B hinged to the second main panels 20, 24; 120, 124 by a pair of branched fold lines 71A, 71B and separated from each other by a cutting line 75. The branched fold lines 71A, 71B have proximal ends that are close to each other and spaced apart, and distal ends that are distal to each other and spaced apart. The cutting line 75 can bisect the branched fold lines 71A, 71B. The third tab 72 is hinged to the second main panels 20, 24; 120, 124 by a further fold line 73. The further fold line is oriented perpendicular to the cutting line 75. The cutting line 75 can bisect the further fold line 73. A pair of receiving tabs 70A, 70B may be partially defined by a second cutting line 77 extending between the distal ends of a pair of branched fold lines 71A, 71B. The second cutting line 77 is oriented perpendicular to the first cutting line 75. The third tab 72 has a free edge, which faces the hinge-retaining edge defined by the further fold line 73. The free edge is provided by a portion of the second cutting line 77. The free edge is shorter in length than the second cutting line 77.

[0268] The disclosure also provides an upper engagement type article carrier 190;390 comprising a main panel 124;324 having at least one article holding structure ORT3, ORT4. The at least one article holding structure ORT3, ORT4 includes openings A5, A6 which are at least partially defined by a plurality of teeth or tabs 160, 162, 164, 166, 168, 174;360, 362, 364, 366, 368, 374. The plurality of teeth 160, 162, 164, 166, 168, 174;360, 362, 364, 366, 368, 374 include first or standard teeth 164;364. Multiple teeth 160, 162, 164, 166, 168, 174; 360, 362, 364, 366, 368, 374 are provided with second or wide teeth 160, 162; 360, 362, the wide teeth 160, 162; 360, 362 are wider than the standard teeth 164; 364, i.e., occupy a larger circumferential area around openings A5, A6. Multiple teeth 160, 162, 164, 166, 168, 174; 360, 362, 364, 366, 368, 374 may include a third or narrow teeth 166, 168; 366, 368, which are narrower than the standard teeth 164; 364, i.e., occupy a smaller circumferential area around the openings A5, A6. The standard teeth 364 and the wide teeth 160, 162; 360, 362 each have engaging edges facing their respective hinge connections to the main panels 124; 324, from which articles are supported or suspended. Multiple teeth 160, 162, 164, 166, 168, 174; 360, 362, 364, 366, 368, 374 are provided with a fourth or tall tooth 174; 374, which is taller than the standard tooth 164; 364, i.e., extends further from its hinge connection to the main panel 124; 324 than the standard tooth 164; 364 extends. In this way, the free edge of the tall tooth 174; 374 is radially offset with respect to the free edge of the standard tooth 164; 364. The free edge of the tall tooth 174; 374 may be closer to the center of the openings A5, A6 than the free edge of the standard tooth 164; 364.The tall teeth 174;374 may be used as contact teeth, i.e., the article is not supported or suspended from the free edge of the tall teeth 174;374, which is best illustrated in Figure 8B. The free edge of the tall teeth 174;374 faces the hinge connection of the tall teeth 174;374 to the main panel 124;324.

[0269] The tall teeth 174;374 may have substantially the same width as the standard teeth 164;364.

[0270] The free edges of the wide teeth 360 and 362 may be continuous with the free edges of the adjacent teeth 366 and 368, that is, there is no radial offset between the free edges of the wide teeth 360 and 362 and the adjacent teeth 366 and 368. The free edges of the wide teeth 360 and 362 and the free edges of the standard teeth 164;364 may be equidistant from the centers of the openings A5 and A6.

[0271] The disclosure also provides an article carrier 190 for packaging at least one article B, the carrier 190 being formed from a single blank 110. The carrier 190 comprises a tubular structure formed from a plurality of panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122A, 122B, 124, 126, the tubular structure comprising an engaging panel 124 having at least one article holding structure ORT3, ORT4 for engaging with and suspending the article B. The single blank 110 is formed from a substrate having a first surface and a second surface on the opposite side. The engaging panel 124 provides the first surface of the substrate as the inner surface of the tubular structure. The plurality of panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122A, 122B, 124, 126 further comprises a cover panel 114 spaced above the engaging panel 124. The cover panel 114 provides the first surface of the substrate as the outer surface of the tubular structure. The end panels 130A and 130B are hinged to the ends of the engaging panel 124, exposing the first surface of the base material when viewed from the end of the tubular structure.

[0272] The first surface of the substrate may be a finished or coated surface optimized for printing, such that the end panels 130A and 130B expose the printed surface of the article carrier 190. The second surface of the substrate may be unfinished, uncoated, or unprinted, and is generally referred to as the "brown" surface of the substrate.

[0273] The multiple panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122A, 122B, 124, and 126 may further comprise a base panel 120 arranged in surface contact with the engaging panel 124. The base panel 120 provides a first surface of the substrate as the outer surface of the tubular structure.

[0274] This disclosure also provides an article carrier 590 and blanks 410;510 for forming the article carrier 590. In its assembled form, the article carrier 590 comprises engaging panels 420 / 424;520 / 524 including upper prisms 424;524 and lower prisms 420;520 arranged in a surface contact configuration. The lower prisms 420;520 include a series of annular lower ply tabs 440, 442, 444, 446, T formed around at least one lower opening A8, A9;A8. a ;540, 542, 544, 546, T a The upper plies 424;524 include at least one lower opening A8, A9;A8 having a lower ply 424;524, which includes at least one upper opening A10, A11;A10 that is substantially coaxial with the lower opening A8, A9;A8, and have an annular series of upper ply tabs 460, 462, 464, 466, 468;560, 562, 564, 566, 568 formed around the upper opening A10, A11;A10. At least one of the upper ply tabs 460, 462, 464, 466, 468;560, 562, 564, 566, 568 has a lower ply tab 440, 442, 444, 446, T a ;540, 542, 544, 546, T a It is in surface contact and engaged with each of at least two of the lower ply tabs 440, 442, 444, 446, T a;540, 542, 544, 546, T a The first lower ply tab is in partial surface contact with at least one upper ply tab 460, 462, 464, 466, 468; 560, 562, 564, 566, 568. The at least two lower ply tabs 440, 442, 444, 446, T a ;540, 542, 544, 546, T a The second of these is in full surface contact with at least one upper ply tab 460, 462, 464, 466, 468; 560, 562, 564, 566, 568.

[0275] The at least two lower ply tabs 440, 442, 444, 446, T a ;540, 542, 544, 546, T a The third lower ply tab can be positioned in partial surface contact with at least one upper ply tab 460, 462, 464, 466, 468; 560, 562, 564, 566, 568. The at least two lower ply tabs 440, 442, 444, 446, T a ;540, 542, 544, 546, T a The second lower ply tab among them is the at least two lower ply tabs 440, 442, 444, 446, T a ;540, 542, 544, 546, T a It is interposed between the first lower ply tab and the third lower ply tab.

[0276] Recesses C1, C2 may be defined between at least one of the upper ply tabs 460, 462, 464, 466, 468; 560, 562, 564, 566, 568 and the next adjacent upper ply tab 460, 462, 464, 466, 468; 560, 562, 564, 566, 568 and at least two lower ply tabs 440, 442, 444, 446, T a ;540, 542, 544, 546, T a The first lower ply tab is exposed so as to be visible through recesses C1 and C2 when viewed from the side of the upper plies 424;524.

[0277] At least one of the upper ply tabs 460, 462, 464, 466, 468; 560, 562, 564, 566, 568 can be positioned at the corner of the article carrier 590.

[0278] At least one additional upper ply tab 460, 462, 464, 466, 468; 560, 562, 564, 566, 568; lower ply tab 440, 442, 444, 446, T a ;540, 542, 544, 546, T a It can engage in surface contact with at least two of each of them.

[0279] The disclosure also provides a carrier 590 or blank 410;510 having an engaging panel 420 / 424;520 / 524 having a finger or handle opening at least partially defined by at least two finger flaps 570A, 570B, 572A, 572B, 574A, 574B, 576A, 576B. The finger opening is surrounded by four sunburst openings, and the article receiving opening is at least partially surrounded by article engaging tabs 460, 462, 464, 466, 468;560, 562, 564, 566, 568. The article engaging tabs 460, 462, 464, 466, 468;560, 562, 564, 566, 568A are hinged to the engaging panel 420 / 424;520 / 524 by hinge connections. Center C of the finger opening f And the center C of the first sunburst opening among the four sunburst openings located at the corners of the engaging panels 420 / 424; 520 / 524 aConceptual lines NL1 and NL2 passing through bisect the recess C2 between adjacent pairs of engaging teeth 464;564 of the first sunburst opening and intersect the hinge connection F3 of adjacent finger flaps among at least two finger flaps 570A, 570B, 572A, 572B, 574A, 574B, 576A, 576B. The finger or handle opening can be defined by four finger flaps 570A, 570B, 572A, 572B, 574A, 574B, 576A, 576B. The four finger flaps 570A, 570B, 572A, 572B, 574A, 574B, 576A, and 576B each comprise two pairs of finger flaps 570A, 570B, 572A, 572B, 574A, 574B, 576A, and 576B. Each of the finger flaps 570A, 570B, 572A, 572B, 574A, 574B, 576A, and 576B may be arranged facing each other.

[0280] At least one adjacent hinge connection F3 among the two finger flaps 570A, 570B, 572A, 572B, 574A, 574B, 576A, 576B is oriented obliquely to the side and end edges of the engaging panel 420 / 424;520 / 524. The corners of the engaging panel 420 / 424;520 / 524 may be rounded or chamfered. The corner edges of the engaging panel 420 / 424;520 / 524 may be parallel to one adjacent hinge connection F3 among the at least two finger flaps 570A, 570B, 572A, 572B, 574A, 574B, 576A, 576B.

[0281] The disclosure also provides a carrier 590 or blank 410;510 having an engaging panel 420 / 424;520 / 524 having a finger or handle opening at least partially defined by at least two finger flaps 570A, 570B, 572A, 572B, 574A, 574B, 576A, 576B. The finger opening is surrounded by four sunburst openings, and the article receiving opening is at least partially surrounded by article engaging tabs 460, 462, 464, 466, 468;560, 562, 564, 566, 568. The article engaging tabs 460, 462, 464, 466, 468;560, 562, 564, 566, 568A are hinged to the engaging panel 420 / 424;520 / 524 by hinge connections. Center C of the first of the four sunburst openings a and the center C of the second sunburst opening among the four sunburst openings a Conceptual lines NL1 and NL2 passing through the center C of the finger opening bisect the recess C2 between adjacent pairs of engaging teeth 464;564 in each of the first and second sunburst openings and intersect the hinge connection F3 of adjacent finger flaps among at least two finger flaps 570A, 570B, 572A, 572B, 574A, 574B, 576A, 576B. The finger or handle opening is located between the first and second sunburst openings. Conceptual lines NL1 and NL2 also intersect the center C of the finger opening. f Conceptual lines NL1 and NL2 may pass through. The conceptual lines NL1 and NL2 may intersect or bisect the opposing pairs of hinge connections F3 of at least two finger flaps 570A, 570B, 572A, 572B, 574A, 574B, 576A, and 576B.

[0282] Referring to FIGS. 1-4 and FIGS. 14-19, the present disclosure also provides an upper engagement article carrier 90; 190; 690; 790 for packaging at least one article. The article carrier includes an upper main panel 14; 114; 312; 120; 220 and a lower main panel 24; 124; 316; 112; 212 spaced apart from the upper main panel 14; 114; 312; 120; 220. The lower main panel 24; 124; 316; 112; 212 includes at least one article engagement structure A5, A6; A5, A6; RT; RT; RT3. The upper main panel 14; 114; 312; 120; 220 includes a handle access opening A7; A7; A5; A7, A9 within the upper main panel 14; 114; 312; 120; 220, and the handle access opening A7; A7; A5; A7, A9 provides a single access window through which at least two handle openings H2, H2; H2, H2; H3, H3; RC, RC; RC, RC within the lower main panel 24; 124; 316; 112; 212 are accessible. The at least two handle openings H2, H2; H2, H2; H3, H3; RC, RC; RC, RC provide a handle for carrying the article carrier therebetween.

[0283] The handle access opening A7; A7; A5; A7, A9 can be at least partially defined by at least one foldable tab 50, 50; 150, 150; 352; 352; 150, 150; 250, 250 that can be connected to the upper main panel 14; 114; 312; 120; 220.

[0284] The at least one foldable tab 50, 50; 150, 150; 352; 352; 150, 150; 250, 250 can be at least partially received within at least one of the at least two handle openings H2, H2; H2, H2; H3, H3; RC, RC; RC, RC to secure the upper main panel 14; 114; 312; 120; 220 to the lower main panel 24; 124; 316; 112; 212.

[0285] At least one foldable tab 50, 50;150, 150;352;352;150, 150;250, 250 may be provided with a pair of locking tabs. The locking tabs 50, 50;150, 150;352;352;150, 150;250, 250 may be arranged facing each other so as to define handle access openings A7;A7;A5;A7, A9 between them when the locking tabs 50, 50;150, 150;352;352;150, 150;250, 250 are folded against the upper main panels 14;114;312;120;220.

[0286] Referring further to Figures 1 to 4 and Figures 14 to 19, the disclosure also provides an upper engaging article carrier 90;190;690;790 for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises an upper main panel 14;114;312;120;220 and a lower main panel 24;124;316;112;212 spaced apart from the upper main panel 14;114;312;120;220. The lower main panel 24;124;316;112;212 comprises at least one article engaging structure A5, A6;A5, A6;RT;RT;RT3. The upper main panels 14;114;312;120;220 are provided with handle access openings A7;A7;A5;A7,A9, which extend between a first location and a second location. The first location is vertically aligned with the first handle opening H2;H2;H3;RC;RC of the lower main panel 24;124;316;112;212, and the second location is vertically aligned with the second handle opening H2;H2;H3;RC;RC of the lower main panel 24;124;316;112;212. It should 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 articles of different sizes or shapes. Shoulder panels may be omitted. The present invention is not limited to top-engaging type cartons, and can be used with other carton styles such as open-top crates, crates with lids, or closed-top crates.

[0287] It should be noted that, as used herein, directional references such as “top,” “bottom,” “base,” “front,” “rear,” “end,” “side,” “inside,” “outside,” “upper,” and “lower” do not necessarily limit individual panels to such orientations, but merely serve to distinguish these panels from one another.

[0288] As used herein, the terms “hinge connection” and “fold line” refer to any type of line that defines a hinge mechanism of a blank, facilitates the folding of parts of the blank relative to one another, or otherwise indicates the optimal panel folding location of the blank. A reference to “hinge connection” should not necessarily be interpreted as referring only to a single fold line; in practice, a hinge connection can be formed from two or more fold lines, each of which may be straight / linear or curved / curved in shape. When straight fold lines form a hinge connection, they may be arranged parallel to each other or at a slight angle to each other. When curved fold lines form a hinge connection, they may intersect each other to define a molded panel within the area enclosed by the curved fold lines. A typical example of such a hinge connection is a pair of arched or curved fold lines intersecting at two points, which may define an elliptical panel between them. A hinge connection may be formed from one or more straight fold lines and one or more curved fold lines. A typical example of such a hinge connection may include a combination of a straight fold line intersecting at two points to define a crescent-shaped panel between them, and an arched or curved fold line.

[0289] As used herein, the term “fold line” may refer to a score line, embossed line, debossed line, perforation line, short slit line, half-cut line, single half-cut, intermittent cutting line, aligned slit line, score line, and any combination of the above options.

[0290] It should be understood that hinge connections and fold lines can each include elements formed on the blank substrate, including perforations, perforation lines, short slit lines, half-cut lines, single half-cuts, cutting lines, intermittent cutting lines, slits, score lines, embossing lines, debossing lines, and any combination thereof. Elements can be dimensioned and positioned to provide the desired function. For example, perforations can be dimensioned or designed to have a degree of fragility for defining fold lines and / or cut lines. Perforations can be designed to facilitate folding and resist tearing, to facilitate folding and facilitate tearing with more effort, or to facilitate tearing with little effort.

[0291] As used herein, the term “aligned” refers to the alignment of two or more elements in an assembled carton, such as an opening formed in a first panel of two overlapping panels and a second opening formed in a second panel of two overlapping panels. These elements that are aligned with each other can be aligned with each other in the thickness direction of the overlapping panels. For example, if an opening in the first panel is “aligned” with a second opening in the second panel which is arranged in an overlapping configuration with the first panel, the edge of the opening may extend along at least a portion of the edge of the second opening and may be aligned with the second opening in the thickness direction of the first and second panels. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0292] 10 Blank, 12 First outer side panel, 13 Fold line, 14 Cover panel, 15 Fold line, 16 Second outer side panel, 17 Fold line, 18 Connecting panel, 19 Fold line, 20 Reinforcement panel, 21 Fold line, 22 First inner side panel section, 23 Fold line, 24 Engagement panel, 25A Fold line, 25B Fold line, 26 Second inner side panel section, 27A Fold line, 27B Fold line, 28A First inner end panel, 28B Second inner end panel, 30A First outer end panel, 30B Second outer end panel, 40 First main tab, 41 Cut line, 42 Second main tab, 44 Third main tab, 46 Fourth main tab, 49 Cut line, 50 Foldable tab, 51 Fold line, 53 Notch, 60 First tab, 61 Cutting line, 62 Second tab, 63 Multiple cutting lines, 64 First tooth, 65 Multiple cutting lines, 66 Second engaging tooth, 67 Cutting line, 68 Third engaging tooth, 69 Cutting line, 70A Tab, 70B Flap, 71A Fold line, 71B Fold line, 72 Third flap, 73 Fold line, 75 Cutting line, 77 Cutting line, 90 Carrier, 110 Blank, 112 First outer side panel, 113 Fold line, 114 Cover panel, 115 Fold line, 116 Second outer side panel, 117 Fold line, 118 First side reinforcement panel, 119 Fold line, 120 Reinforcement panel, 121A Fold line, 121B Fold line, 121C Fold line, 122A Second side reinforcement panel, 122B First inner side panel, 123 fold line, 124 engagement panel, 125A fold line, 125B fold line, 126 second inner side panel, 127A fold line, 127B fold line, 128A first inner end panel, 128B second inner end panel, 130A first outer end panel, 130B second outer end panel, 140 engagement tooth, 140A engagement tab / tooth, 140B engagement tab / tooth, 141A fold line, 141B fold line, 142 engagement tooth, 144 engagement tooth, 146 engagement tooth, 147 cutting line, 149 cutting line, 151 fold line, 153 notch, 154 wing section, 155 fold line, 160 tooth / first tab, 162 tooth / tab, 164 Tab / First engaging tooth, 166 Tab / Second engaging tooth, 168 Tab / Third engaging tooth, 170 Receptive tab, 171 Fold line, 174180 Fourth engaging tooth, 190 First locking tab, 210 Carrier, 210 Blank, 212 Main panel, 214 First side panel, 218 First side reinforcement panel, 218B First beam panel, 218C Second beam panel, 218D Third beam panel, 219 Fold line, 220 Reinforcement panel, 221A Fold line, 221B Fold line, 221C Fold line, 222A Second side reinforcement panel, 222B First side panel, 223 Fold line, 224 Engaging panel, 225A Fold line, 225B Fold line, 226 Second side panel, 227A Fold line, 227B Fold line, 228A First inner end panel, 228B Second inner end panel, 230A First outer end panel, 230B Second outer end panel, 240A tab, 240B tab, 250 tab, 251 fold line, 260 engaging tooth, 264 engaging tooth, 270A handle tab, 270B handle tab, 271A fold line, 271B fold line, 272 tab, 273 fold line, 274 tab, 275 fold line, 279 fold line, 282 tab, 284 tab, 290 carrier, 310 blank, 312 top panel, 313 fold line, 314 side panel, 315 fold line, 316 main panel, 317 fold line, 318 first side reinforcement panel, 319 fold line, 320 reinforcement panel, 321 fold line, 321A fold line, 321B fold line, 321C fold line, 322 beam panel, 322A Second side reinforcement panel, 322B First side panel, 323 Fold line, 324 Engagement panel, 325 Fold line, 325A Fold line, 325B Fold line, 326 Second side panel, 327 Fold line, 327A Fold line, 327B Fold line, 328A First inner end panel, 328B Second inner end panel, 329 Fold line, 330A First outer end panel, 330B Second outer end panel, 348 Teeth, 349 Cutting line, 351 Cutting line, 352 Tab, 353 Cutting line, 354 Receiving tab, 355A Fold line, 355B Fold line, 356A First handle flap, 356B Second handle flap, 360 Engagement teeth / tab, 361 Fold line, 362 Engagement teeth / tab, 363 Fold line, 364 teeth / tab, 365 fold line, 366 teeth / tab, 368 teeth, 370 tear start tab, 370ASecond handle tab, 370B Second handle tab, 374 Fourth engaging tooth, 375 Cutting line, 390 Carrier, 410 Blank, 418 First side reinforcement panel, 419 Fold line, 420 Reinforcement panel, 421A Fold line, 421B Fold line, 421C Fold line, 422A Second side reinforcement panel, 422B First side panel, 423 Fold line, 424 Engaging panel, 425A Fold line, 425B Fold line, 426 Second side panel, 427A Fold line, 427B Fold line, 428A First inner end panel, 428B Second inner end panel, 430A First outer end panel, 430B Second outer end panel, 440 First main tab, 442 Second main tab, 444 Third main tab, 446 Fourth main tab, 460 teeth / First tab, 462 teeth / Second tab, 464 teeth / Third engaging tab, 465 Circumferential cutting line, 466 teeth / Fourth engaging tab, 468 teeth / Fifth engaging tab, 510 Blank, 518 First side reinforcement panel, 519 Fold line, 520 Reinforcement panel, 521A Fold line, 521B Fold line, 521C Fold line, 522A Second side reinforcement panel, 522B First side reinforcement panel, 523 Fold line, 524 Engaging panel, 525A Fold line, 525B Fold line, 526 Second side panel, 527A Fold line, 527B Fold line, 528A First inner end panel, 528B Second inner end panel, 530A First outer end panel, 530B Second outer end panel, 540 First main tab, 542 Second main tab, 544 Third main tab, 546 Fourth main tab, 560 Tooth / tab, 562 Tooth / tab, 564 Tooth / Third engaging tab, 565 Circumferential section line, 566 Tooth / Fourth engaging tab, 568 Tooth / Fifth engaging tab, 570A Handle flap, 570B Handle flap, 572A Handle flap, 572B Handle flap, 574A Handle flap, 574B Handle flap, 576A Handle flap, 576B Handle flap, 590 Carrier, 610 Blank, 690 Carrier, 710 Blank, 790 Carrier, 810 Blank, A1 Opening, A2 Opening, A3 Opening, A4 Opening, A5 Handle opening, A6 Receiving opening, A7 Handle opening, A8 opening, A9 opening, A10 opening, A11 opening, C1Recess, C2 Recess / notch, C a center, C f center, C h Flange, CT cutting line, E1 cutting line, E2 cutting line, E8 cutting line, E9 cutting line, F1 fold line, F2 fold line / hinge connection, F3 hinge connection, H1 handle structure, H2 handle structure, H3 first handle element, H4 second handle element, H5 first handle element, H6 second handle element, H7 handle element, H8 handle element, L1 locking element, NL1 conceptual line, NL2 conceptual line, ORT1 article holding structure, ORT2 article holding structure, ORT3 article holding structure, ORT4 article holding structure, ORT5 article holding structure, ORT6 article holding structure, IRT1 article engagement structure, IRT2 article engagement structure, IRT3 article engagement structure, IRT4 article engagement structure, IRT5 article engagement structure, IRT6 article engagement structure, R1 recess, R2 recess, R3 recess, R4 recess, RC locking element, T a Tab, Ts Second tab, T r recess or notch

Claims

1. An upper-engaged article carrier for packaging at least one article, the article carrier comprising an upper main panel and a lower main panel spaced apart from the upper main panel, the lower main panel comprising at least one article engaging structure, the upper main panel comprising a handle access opening, the handle access opening providing a single access window accessible to at least two handle openings of the lower main panel, the at least two handle openings providing a handle for transporting the article carrier between them.

2. The upper engaging article carrier according to claim 1, wherein the handle access opening is at least partially defined by at least one foldable tab connected to the upper main panel.

3. The upper engaging article carrier according to claim 2, wherein the at least one foldable tab is partially received in at least one of the at least two handle openings to secure the upper main panel to the lower main panel.

4. The upper engaging article carrier according to claim 2, wherein the at least one foldable tab includes a pair of locking tabs, the locking tabs being arranged opposite each other such that when folded relative to the upper main panel, the locking tabs define the handle access opening between them.

5. An upper engaging article carrier for packaging at least one article, the article carrier comprising an upper main panel and a lower main panel spaced apart from the upper main panel, the lower main panel comprising at least one article engaging structure, the upper main panel comprising a handle access opening within the upper main panel, the handle access opening extending between a first location and a second location, the first location being vertically aligned with a first handle opening in the lower main panel, and the second location being vertically aligned with a second handle opening in the lower main panel.

6. The upper engaging article carrier according to claim 5, wherein the handle access opening is at least partially defined by at least one foldable tab connected to the upper main panel.

7. The upper engaging article carrier according to claim 6, wherein the at least one foldable tab is partially received in at least one of the first handle opening and the second handle opening to secure the upper main panel to the lower main panel.

8. The upper engaging article carrier according to claim 6, wherein the at least one foldable tab comprises a pair of locking tabs, the locking tabs being arranged opposite each other such that when folded relative to the upper main panel, the locking tabs define the handle access opening between them.

9. An upper engaging article carrier for packaging at least one article, wherein the article carrier includes an engaging board having a partially two-ply structure, the engaging board includes a first panel and a second panel, each of the first and second panels includes at least one article engaging structure, the at least one article engaging structure in the first panel is aligned with the at least one article engaging structure in the second panel, the second panel is a partially reinforcing layer disposed in a manner that partially overlaps the first panel, the first and second panels together form the partially two-ply structure, the partially two-ply structure includes a two-ply region and a single-ply region, the upper engaging article carrier.

10. The upper engaging article carrier according to claim 9, wherein the at least one article engaging structure of the second panel comprises at least one partial article engaging structure disposed in alignment with the at least one article engaging structure of the first panel, forming a partial two-ply article engaging device.

11. The upper engaging article carrier according to claim 10, wherein the second panel is hinged to the first panel by a hinge connection, the hinge connection being offset with respect to the side edge of the first panel.

12. The upper engaging article carrier according to claim 11, further comprising at least one partial side panel hinged to the side edge of the first panel, wherein the at least one partial side panel extends into the opening of the at least one partial article engaging structure of the second panel in a blank form such that the at least one partial side panel defines a portion of the periphery of the opening of the at least one partial article engaging structure.

13. The upper engaging article carrier according to claim 10, wherein the at least one partial article engaging structure comprises a main tab, the main tab extending from an end panel hinged to the second panel.

14. The upper engaging article carrier according to claim 13, wherein the main tab is disposed adjacent to at least one partial side panel hinged to the side edge of the first panel, and the main tab is separated from the at least one partial side panel by a blank cutting line.

15. An upper engaging article carrier for packaging at least one article, the article carrier comprising a two-ply engaging board, the engaging board comprising an engaging panel and a reinforcing panel, each of the panels of the engaging board comprising at least one article engaging structure, the at least one article engaging structure of the engaging panel being aligned with the at least one article engaging structure of the reinforcing panel, the engaging panel being coupled to the reinforcing panel by a pair of connecting panels, the first connecting panel of the pair of connecting panels being hinged to the second connecting panel of the pair of connecting panels by a hinge connection, each of the pair of connecting panels comprising at least one article engaging tooth extending therefrom to form a two-ply engaging tooth, the at least one article engaging tooth of the first connecting panel of the pair of connecting panels being bonded to the at least one article engaging tooth of the second connecting panel of the pair of connecting panels.

16. The upper engaging article carrier according to claim 15, wherein the two-ply engaging teeth are bonded and fixed to the side panel so as to form a three-ply side panel of the article carrier.

17. An upper engaging article carrier for packaging at least one article, the article carrier comprising a main panel having at least one article engaging structure, the at least one article engaging structure including an opening at least partially defined by a plurality of engaging teeth, each of the plurality of engaging teeth including a free edge, each free edge defining a portion of the opening, and at least one of the plurality of engaging teeth including a straight free edge that is collinear with a straight portion of one adjacent free edge of the plurality of engaging teeth.

18. The upper engaging article carrier according to claim 17, wherein at least one straight free edge of the plurality of engaging teeth is arranged in continuity with the straight portion of the free edge of an adjacent engaging tooth.

19. The upper engaging article carrier according to claim 17, wherein at least one of the plurality of engaging teeth has a straight free edge that is aligned with a straight portion of another of the plurality of engaging teeth, and the other tooth is positioned adjacent to at least one of the plurality of engaging teeth.

20. An upper engaging article carrier for packaging at least one article, the article carrier comprising a main panel having at least one article engaging structure, the at least one article engaging structure including an opening at least partially defined by a plurality of engaging teeth, each of the plurality of engaging teeth including a free edge, each free edge defining a portion of the opening, and the free edge of at least one of the plurality of engaging teeth including a straight free edge that is collinear with the straight portion of the free edge of each of an adjacent pair of engaging teeth among the plurality of engaging teeth.

21. An upper engaging article carrier for packaging at least one article, the article carrier comprising a first main panel and a second main panel spaced apart from the first main panel, the second main panel comprising at least one article engaging structure, the first main panel comprising a pair of locking tabs punched out from the first main panel and hinged to the first main panel facing each other, the pair of locking tabs spaced apart by an opening, the opening forming an observation window from which a portion of the second main panel can be observed, the portion of the second main panel comprising a pair of receiving openings, the locking tabs respectively receiving into the receiving openings to secure the first main panel to the second main panel, and the receiving openings providing handles for transporting the article carrier.

22. The upper engaging article carrier according to claim 21, wherein each of the receiving openings is defined by at least one receiving tab punched out from the second main panel and hinged to the second main panel by its respective hinge connection.

23. The upper engaging article carrier according to claim 21, wherein each of the receiving openings is defined by three receiving tabs, the three receiving tabs comprising a pair of receiving tabs hinged to the second main panel by a pair of branched fold lines, the pair of receiving tabs being separated from each other by a first cutting line, the pair of branched fold lines comprising a proximal end close to and spaced apart from each other, and a distal end distally spaced apart from each other.

24. The upper engaging article carrier according to claim 23, wherein the first cutting line bisects the pair of branched fold lines.

25. The upper engaging article carrier according to claim 23, wherein each of the three receiving tabs of the receiving opening further includes a third tab hinged to the second main panel by a further fold line, the further fold line being oriented perpendicular to the first cutting line.

26. The upper engaging article carrier according to claim 25, wherein the first cutting line is positioned to bisect the further fold line.

27. The upper engaging article carrier according to claim 23, wherein the pair of receiving tabs are partially defined by a second cutting line extending between the distal ends of the pair of branched fold lines.

28. The upper engaging article carrier according to claim 27, wherein the second cutting line is oriented perpendicular to the first cutting line.

29. The upper engaging article carrier according to claim 25, wherein the third tab has a free edge, the free edge of the third tab facing a hinge edge defined by the further fold line.

30. The upper engaging article carrier according to claim 29, wherein the free edge of the third tab is provided by a portion of a second cutting line extending between the distal ends of the branched pair of fold lines, and the free edge of the third tab is shorter in length than the second cutting line.

31. An upper engaging article carrier for packaging at least one article, the article carrier comprising a main panel having at least one article holding structure, the at least one article holding structure comprising an opening at least partially defined by a plurality of teeth, the plurality of teeth comprising standard teeth, broad teeth, the broad teeth being wider than the standard teeth, and tall teeth, the tall teeth being taller than the standard teeth, the standard teeth and the broad teeth each having engaging edges facing their respective hinge connections to the main panel to form engaging teeth, the engaging edges of each of the standard teeth and the broad teeth configured to suspend an article from there, and the tall teeth being usable as contact teeth, the upper engaging article carrier.

32. An upper engaging article carrier for packaging at least one article, the article carrier comprising a main panel having at least one article holding structure, the at least one article holding structure comprising an opening at least partially defined by a plurality of teeth, the plurality of teeth comprising standard teeth, broad teeth, the broad teeth being wider than the standard teeth, and tall teeth, the tall teeth being taller than the standard teeth, the standard teeth and the broad teeth each having engaging edges facing their respective hinge connections to the main panel to form an engaging tooth, the engaging edges of each of the standard teeth and the broad teeth configured to suspend an article from there, and the tall teeth being usable as contact teeth or engaging teeth, the upper engaging article carrier.

33. A package comprising an upper engaging article carrier and at least one article, wherein the article carrier comprises a main panel having at least one article holding structure, the at least one article holding structure comprising an opening at least partially defined by a plurality of teeth, the plurality of teeth comprising standard teeth, broad teeth, the broad teeth being wider than the standard teeth, and tall teeth, the tall teeth being taller than the standard teeth, each of the standard teeth and the broad teeth comprising an engaging edge facing a respective hinge connection to the main panel, the engaging edge of each of the standard teeth and the broad teeth engaging under a projection of the article to suspend the article therefrom, the tall teeth being used as abutment teeth with a free edge of the tall teeth positioned on the projection from which the article is suspended, and the free edge of the tall teeth facing the hinge connection to the main panel of the tall teeth.

34. The package according to claim 33, wherein the plurality of teeth include narrow teeth, and the narrow teeth are narrower than the standard teeth.

35. The package according to claim 33, wherein the tall teeth extend further from the hinge connection than the standard teeth that extend from the hinge connection.

36. The package according to claim 33, wherein when the upper engaging article carrier is in a blank state, the free edge of the tall tooth is radially offset with respect to the free edge of the standard tooth.

37. The package according to claim 33, wherein the free edge of the tall tooth is closer to the center of the opening than the free edge of the standard tooth when the upper engaging article carrier is in a blank state.

38. The package according to claim 33, wherein the tall teeth have substantially the same width as the standard teeth.

39. The package according to claim 33, wherein the free edge of the wide tooth is continuous with the free edge of the adjacent tooth.

40. The package according to claim 33, wherein the free edge of the wide tooth and the free edge of the standard tooth are equidistant from the center of the opening.

41. A blank for forming an upper engaging article carrier, the blank comprising panels for forming an engaging board, the engaging board comprising engaging panels and reinforcing panels, each of the panels comprising at least one article engaging structure, wherein the at least one article engaging structure in a first panel of the panels is configured to align with the at least one article engaging structure in a second panel of the panels, and the reinforcing panels are partial reinforcing layers configured to partially overlap the engaging panels such that the reinforcing panels and the engaging panels together form the engaging board with a partial two-ply structure, the partial two-ply structure comprising two-ply regions and single-ply regions, the blank.

42. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising panels for forming an engagement board including an engagement panel and a reinforcing panel, each of the panels comprising at least one article engagement structure, the at least one article engagement structure in a first panel of the panels being configured to align with the at least one article engagement structure in a second panel of the panels, the engagement panel being coupled to the reinforcing panel by a pair of connecting panels, the first connecting panel of the pair of connecting panels being hinged to the second connecting panel of the pair of connecting panels by a hinge connection, and each of the pair of connecting panels comprising at least one article engagement tooth extending therefrom to form a two-ply engagement tooth bonded to a setup carrier.

43. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a main panel having at least one article engagement structure, the at least one article engagement structure including an opening at least partially defined by a plurality of engagement teeth, each of the plurality of engagement teeth including a free edge, each free edge defining a portion of the opening, and at least one of the plurality of engagement teeth including a straight free edge that is collinear with a straight portion of one of the plurality of engagement teeth.

44. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a main panel having at least one article engagement structure, the at least one article engagement structure comprising an opening at least partially defined by a plurality of engagement teeth, each of the plurality of engagement teeth comprising a free edge, each free edge defining a portion of the opening, and the free edge of at least one of the plurality of engagement teeth comprising a straight free edge that is collinear with the straight portion of the free edge of each of an adjacent pair of engagement teeth among the plurality of engagement teeth.

45. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a first main panel and a second main panel, the second main panel comprising at least one article engagement structure, the first main panel comprising a pair of locking tabs punched out from the first main panel and hinged to the first main panel facing each other, the pair of locking tabs being separated by an opening, the opening forming an observation window from which a portion of the second main panel can be observed, the portion of the second main panel comprising a pair of receiving openings, the locking tabs being respectively receivable into the receiving openings to secure the first main panel to the second main panel, the receiving openings providing a handle to the assembled article carrier, the blank.

46. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a main panel having at least one article holding structure, the at least one article holding structure comprising an opening at least partially defined by a plurality of teeth, the plurality of teeth comprising standard teeth, broad teeth, the broad teeth being wider than the standard teeth, and tall teeth, the tall teeth being taller than the standard teeth, the standard teeth and the broad teeth each comprising engaging edges facing their respective hinge connections to the main panel to form an engaging tooth, the engaging edges of the standard teeth and the broad teeth configured to suspend an article from there, and the tall teeth being usable as contact teeth or engaging teeth, the blank.

47. The blank according to claim 46, wherein the wide tooth comprises a pair of opposing lateral edges defined by a pair of cutting lines.

48. The blank according to claim 46, wherein the wide tooth comprises a pair of opposing side edges, one of which is defined by a cutting line, and the other of which is defined by a notch.

49. The blank according to claim 46, wherein the tall teeth are provided with a pair of opposing lateral edges, one of which is defined by a cutting line, and the other of which is defined by a notch.

50. The blank according to claim 46, wherein the standard tooth comprises a pair of opposing lateral edges defined by a pair of cutting lines.

51. The blank according to claim 46, wherein the standard tooth comprises a pair of opposing lateral edges defined by a pair of notches.

52. An article carrier for packaging at least one article, wherein the carrier is formed from a single blank, the carrier comprises a tubular structure formed from a plurality of panels, the plurality of panels include engaging panels having at least one article holding structure for engaging with and suspending an article, the single blank is formed from a substrate having a first surface and a second surface on the opposite side, the engaging panels provide the first surface of the substrate as the inner surface of the tubular structure, the plurality of panels further comprises spaced-apart cover panels above the engaging panels, the cover panels provide the first surface of the substrate as the outer surface of the tubular structure.

53. The article carrier according to claim 52, further comprising an end panel hinged to the end of the engaging panel, thereby exposing the first surface of the substrate when viewed from the end of the tubular structure.

54. The article carrier according to claim 52, wherein the plurality of panels further comprises a base panel arranged in surface contact with the engaging panel, the base panel providing the first surface of the substrate as the outer surface of the tubular structure.

55. An assembled article carrier comprising an engagement panel including upper and lower prisms arranged in a surface contact configuration, wherein the lower prisms include at least one lower opening and have an annular series of lower prism tabs formed around the at least one lower opening; the upper prisms include at least one upper prism arranged substantially coaxially with the at least one lower opening and have an annular series of upper prism tabs formed around the at least one upper opening, wherein one of the upper prism tabs engages in surface contact with at least two of the lower prism tabs, the first lower prism tab of the at least two lower prism tabs is in partial surface contact configuration with the one of the upper prism tabs, and the second lower prism tab of the at least two lower prism tabs is in full surface contact configuration with the one of the upper prism tabs.

56. The article carrier according to claim 55, wherein the third lower ply tab of the at least two lower ply tabs is in partial surface contact with one of the upper ply tabs, and the second lower ply tab of the at least two lower ply tabs is interposed between the first lower ply tab and the third lower ply tab of the at least two lower ply tabs.

57. The article carrier according to claim 55, wherein the recess is defined between one of the upper ply tabs and an adjacent one of the upper ply tabs, and the first lower ply tab of the at least two lower ply tabs is exposed so as to be visible through the recess when viewed from the side of the upper ply.

58. The article carrier according to claim 55, wherein the second upper ply tab of the upper ply tabs engages in surface contact with at least two of the lower ply tabs.

59. The article carrier according to claim 55, wherein one of the upper ply tabs is disposed at the corner of the article carrier.

60. Article carrier for packaging at least one article, the carrier having an engagement panel, the engagement panel including a finger opening at least partially defined by at least two finger flaps hinged to the engagement panel, the finger opening being surrounded by four article receiving openings, each including an opening at least partially enclosed by an article engagement tab, the article engagement tab being hinged to the engagement panel, and a conceptual line passing through the center of the finger opening and the center of the first article receiving opening of the four article receiving openings bisects the recess between an adjacent pair of engagement tabs of the engagement tabs of the first article receiving opening of the four article receiving openings, intersects with the hinged connection of an adjacent finger flap of the at least two finger flaps, and the first article receiving opening of the four article receiving openings being located at the corner of the engagement panel.

61. The article carrier according to claim 60, wherein the finger opening is defined by four finger flaps.

62. The article carrier according to claim 60, wherein the four finger flaps include two pairs of opposing finger flaps.

63. The article carrier according to claim 62, wherein each of the pair of opposing finger flaps is hinged to the engagement panel, facing each other.

64. The article carrier according to claim 60, wherein the hinge connection portion of the adjacent finger flap among the at least two finger flaps is oriented obliquely with respect to the edge and side edge of the engagement panel.

65. The article carrier according to claim 60, wherein the corners of the engagement panel are chamfered.

66. The article carrier according to claim 65, wherein the corner edge of the engagement panel is parallel to the hinge connection of the adjacent finger flap of the at least two finger flaps.

67. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a main panel having finger openings at least partially defined by at least two finger flaps hinged to the main panel, the finger openings being surrounded by four article receiving openings, each having an opening at least partially enclosed by an article engaging tab, the article engaging tabs being hinged to the engaging panel, and a conceptual line passing through the center of the finger openings and the center of the first article receiving opening of the four article receiving openings bisecting the recess between an adjacent pair of engaging tabs of the engaging tabs of the first article receiving opening of the four article receiving openings, intersecting the hinged connection of an adjacent finger flap of the at least two finger flaps, and the first article receiving opening of the four article receiving openings being located at the corner of the engaging panel.

68. Article carrier for packaging at least one article, the carrier having an engagement panel including a finger opening at least partially defined by at least two finger flaps hinged to the engagement panel, the finger opening being surrounded by four article receiving openings, each including an opening at least partially enclosed by an article engagement tab, and a conceptual line passing through the center of the first article receiving opening of the four article receiving openings and the center of the second article receiving opening of the four article receiving openings bisects the recess between adjacent pairs of engagement tabs in each of the first and second article receiving openings of the four article receiving openings and intersects the hinged connection of adjacent finger flaps of the at least two finger flaps.

69. The article carrier according to claim 68, wherein the finger opening is disposed between the first article receiving opening and the second article receiving opening among the four article receiving openings.

70. The article carrier according to claim 68, wherein the conceptual line passes through the center of the finger opening.

71. The article carrier according to claim 68, wherein the conceptual line intersects with the hinge connection portion of each of the opposing finger flaps among the at least two finger flaps.

72. A blank for forming an article carrier, comprising a main panel, the main panel having finger openings at least partially defined by at least two finger flaps hinged to the main panel, the finger openings being surrounded by four article receiving openings, each including an opening at least partially enclosed by an article engaging tab, the blank, wherein a conceptual line passing through the center of a first article receiving opening of the four article receiving openings and the center of a second article receiving opening of the four article receiving openings bisects the recess between adjacent pairs of engaging tabs of the engaging tabs in each of the first and second article receiving openings and intersects the hinged connection of adjacent finger flaps of the at least two finger flaps.

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