Goods carrier and blank for the same

Abstract

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to an article carrier (90, 190) for packaging a plurality of articles, and a blank for forming it. The article carrier includes a first panel (14, 22) and a second panel (16, 20) hinged together along a fold line (15, 21). The first and second panels have first and second openings (A1, A2) that are at least partially defined within the first and second panels, respectively. The first and second openings are spaced apart from the fold line. The fold line includes at least one first section (S1) and at least one second section (S2). At least one first section is interposed between the first opening and the second opening. The bending resistance of at least one first section is substantially less than the bending resistance of at least one second section.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to carriers and the blanks for forming them. More specifically, but not limited thereto, the present invention relates to an upper engagement style carrier having a handle structure.

Background Art

[0002] In the field of packaging, it is known to provide article carriers or cartons for transporting multiple articles. Cartons are well known in the art and are useful for enabling consumers to transport, store, and access groups of articles for consumption. For cost and environmental considerations, such cartons or carriers need to be formed from as little material as possible and need to minimize waste in the materials from which they are formed. Further considerations are the strength of the carton and its suitability for holding and transporting heavy articles. It is desirable that the contents of the carton be safe within the carton.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] An object of the present invention is to provide a robust and strong article carrier having a comfortable carrying handle suitable for transporting articles (such as, but not limited to, glass bottles, etc.).

[0004] It is desirable that the blank from which the carrier is formed can be easily assembled into the carrier in a simple and efficient manner.

[0005] The present invention aims to provide improvements in the field of cartons typically formed from cardboard or the like.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0006] A first aspect of the present invention provides an article carrier for packaging one or more articles. The article carrier comprises a first panel and a second panel, the second panel being hinged to the first panel along a fold line. The first and second panels have first and second openings, each at least partially defined within the first and second panels. The first and second openings are spaced apart from the fold line. The fold line comprises at least one first section and at least one second section. At least one first section is interposed between the first and second openings. The bending resistance of at least one first section is substantially less than the bending resistance of at least one second section.

[0007] A second aspect of the present invention provides a carton for packaging one or more articles. The carton includes a handle member, which includes a pair of tabs arranged in surface contact with each other, comprising a first tab and a second tab. The first tab is formed from and hinged to a first carton panel. The second tab is formed from and hinged to a second carton panel. The first tab is separated from the first carton panel by at least one first cut line, and the second tab is separated from the second carton panel by at least one second cut line. The first and second tabs are hinged to each other along a fold line.

[0008] A third aspect of the present invention provides an upper-engaged article carrier for packaging one or more articles. The upper-engaged article carrier comprises a plurality of panels, each including an upper panel; a pair of inclined side panels hinged along opposing side edges of the upper panel; and at least two article engaging devices. The carrier further includes a handle member disposed between the at least two article engaging devices. The handle member includes at least one tab, the at least one tab being at least partially defined by at least two fold lines and at least one cut line extending between the at least two fold lines.

[0009] The first of at least two fold lines defines at least a portion of the end of the handle member, and the end is pivotable or displaceable around the second of the at least two fold lines.

[0010] Optionally, the end of the handle member is furthest from the second of at least two fold lines.

[0011] A fourth aspect of the present invention provides a carton for packaging one or more articles. The carton includes an article engaging member formed from at least a first carton panel. The article engaging member is hinged to the first carton panel by a pair of divergent fold lines. The article engaging member includes a first engaging edge substantially extending between the upper ends of the divergent fold lines and a second engaging edge opposite the first engaging edge. The second engaging edge substantially extends between the lower ends of the divergent fold lines. The article engaging member further includes a cut extending upward from the second engaging edge into the article engaging member.

[0012] A fifth aspect of the present invention provides an upper engaging article carrier for packaging one or more articles. The upper engaging article carrier comprises a plurality of panels, including a first panel and a second panel, the second panel being hinged to the first panel along a fold line. The first panel includes a first engaging portion, and the second panel includes a second engaging portion. The first and second engaging portions extend parallel to each other. The first engaging portion includes a first engaging edge positioned at a first distance from the fold line. The second engaging portion includes a further engaging edge positioned at a second distance from the fold line, the first distance being greater than the second distance.

[0013] Optionally, the first engaging edge is a linear edge, while further engaging edges are nonlinear or curved edges.

[0014] In the package including the aforementioned upper engaging carrier, a first engaging edge engages with the underside of the closure of the article, while a further engaging edge engages with the underside of an annular rib or projection of the article. The annular rib or projection is located just below the open top of the article, and the closure is fitted onto the open top of the article, closing the opening therein.

[0015] Optionally, annular ribs or projections are provided by the neck portion of the article to which the closure is attached.

[0016] A sixth aspect of the present invention provides a blank for packaging one or more articles. The blank comprises a first panel and a second panel, the second panel being hinged to the first panel along a fold line. The first and second panels have first and second openings, each at least partially defined within the first and second panels. The first and second openings are spaced apart from the fold line. The fold line comprises at least one first section and at least one second section. The at least one first section is interposed between the first and second openings, and the bending resistance of the at least one first section is substantially less than the bending resistance of the at least one second section.

[0017] A seventh aspect of the present invention provides a blank for packaging one or more articles. The blank includes a plurality of primary panels for forming an article carrier. The blank includes a handle member, the handle member includes a pair of tabs configured to be arranged in a surface contact arrangement with respect to each other in a set-up carrier. The pair of tabs includes a first tab and a second tab. The first tab is formed from a first primary panel and is hinged to the first primary panel. The second tab is formed from a second primary panel and is hinged to the second primary panel. The second primary panel is hinged to the first primary panel. The first tab is separated from a first carton panel by at least one first cut line, and the second tab is separated from a second carton panel by at least one second cut line. The first and second tabs are hinged to each other along a fold line.

[0018] An eighth aspect of the present invention provides a blank for packaging one or more articles. The blank comprises a plurality of panels, each including a top panel; a pair of side panels, each hinged along one of a pair of opposing side edges of the top panel; and at least two article engaging devices. The blank further includes a handle member disposed between the at least two article engaging devices. The handle member includes at least one tab, the at least one tab being at least partially defined by at least two fold lines and at least one cut line extending between the at least two fold lines.

[0019] A ninth aspect of the present invention provides a blank for packaging one or more articles. The blank includes a plurality of primary panels for forming an article carrier. An article engaging member is formed from at least a first primary panel, and the article engaging member is hinged to the first primary panel by a pair of divergent fold lines. The article engaging member includes a first engaging edge substantially extending between the upper ends of the divergent fold lines and a second engaging edge opposite the first engaging edge. The second engaging edge substantially extends between the lower ends of the divergent fold lines. The article engaging member further includes a cut extending upward from the second engaging edge into the article engaging member.

[0020] A tenth aspect of the present invention provides a blank for packaging one or more articles. The blank comprises a plurality of primary panels, including a first primary panel and a second primary panel. The second primary panel is hinged to the first primary panel along a fold line. The first primary panel includes a first engagement portion, and the second primary panel includes a second engagement portion. The first and second engagement portions extend side by side with each other. The first engagement portion includes a first engagement edge positioned at a first distance from the fold line. The second engagement portion includes a further engagement edge positioned at a second distance from the fold line. The first distance is greater than the second distance.

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

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

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

[0024] The features of the embodiments disclosed herein, or combinations of features, can be extracted separately from other features of the embodiment. Alternatively, features of the embodiment, or combinations of features, can be omitted from the embodiment.

[0025] Here, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0026] [Figure 1] A plan view from above a blank for forming a carrier according to a first embodiment. [Figure 2] A perspective view of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] A perspective view of a package formed from the carrier of FIG. 2 and a plurality of articles. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a plan view from above a blank for forming a carrier according to the second embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 4. [Figure 6] FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a package formed from the carrier of FIG. 5 and a plurality of articles. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0027] Details of particular embodiments of packages, blanks, and cartons are disclosed herein. It is understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of ways in which particular aspects of the invention may be implemented and do not represent an exhaustive list of all ways in which the invention may be embodied. As used herein, the term "exemplary" is used broadly to refer to embodiments that serve as illustrations, specimens, models, or patterns. In fact, it is understood that the packages, blanks, and cartons described herein may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale, and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components. Well-known components, materials, or methods are not necessarily described in detail to avoid obscuring the present disclosure. Any particular structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be construed as limiting but rather as a representative basis for the claims and as a basis for teaching one skilled in the art how to variously use the present invention.

[0028] Referring to Figure 1, a plan view is shown of a blank 10 that can form a carton or carrier 90 (as shown in Figures 2 and 3) for containing and transporting a group of primary products (e.g., glass bottles, etc.) (hereinafter referred to as articles). The blank 10 forms a top-engagement style secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package.

[0029] An alternative blank 110 is shown in Figure 4, forming a carrier as shown in Figures 5 and 6.

[0030] In embodiments detailed herein, the terms “carton” and “carrier” refer to a container for engaging with and transporting articles (e.g., a primary product container) for the non-limiting purpose of illustrating various features of the present invention. The teachings of the present invention can be applied to various product containers, which may or may not be tapered and / or cylindrical in shape. Other exemplary containers include bottles (e.g., metal bottles, glass bottles, or plastic bottles), cans (e.g., aluminum cans), tin cans, pouches, and packets.

[0031] Blanks 10;110 are formed from a sheet of suitable substrate. As used herein, the term “suitable substrate” should be understood to include all types of foldable sheet materials, such as cardboard, corrugated cardboard, thick paper, plastics, and combinations thereof. It should be recognized that, where appropriate, one or more blanks may be used, for example, to provide the carrier structures described in more detail below.

[0032] The packaging structures or cartons described herein 90;190 may be formed from sheet materials (e.g., cardboard), which may be made from or coated with materials to increase their strength. An example of such a sheet material is the 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 provided with a coating, layer, treatment, or otherwise prepared to provide properties such as tear resistance, good gluing properties, heat sealability, or one or more of other desired functional properties.

[0033] In the illustrated embodiments, blanks 10;110 are configured to form a carton or carrier 90;190 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1, the arrangement is an m x n matrix or array having one row (m=1) and two columns (n=2) (one row is provided with two articles), and the articles are 35-ounce (approximately 992-gram) glass bottles. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 4, the arrangement is an m x n matrix or array having one row (m=1) and three columns (n=3) (one row is provided with three articles), and the articles are 24-ounce (approximately 680-gram) bottles. The bottles can be formed from suitable materials such as glass, aluminum, or PET (polyester-polyethylene terephthalate), but are not limited to these.

[0034] Blanks 10;110 can be configured to form carriers (e.g., fully enclosed cartons or wrapped carriers) for packaging articles of other types, numbers, and sizes, and / or for packaging articles in different arrangements or configurations, the articles may be cups, pouches, pots, or cans.

[0035] Looking at Figure 1, a blank 10 for forming a carton 90 (see Figures 2 and 3) according to the first embodiment is illustrated. The blank 10 includes a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 arranged linearly in series, which are hinged to each other by fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23, respectively.

[0036] Multiple panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, and 24 form an upper engagement clip. The blank 10 includes multiple outer panels 16, 18, and 20, including a first outer side panel or shoulder panel 16. The upper panel 18 is hinged to the first outer side panel 16 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 17 along its first side edge. The second outer side panel 20 is hinged to the upper panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 19 along its second (opposite) side edge.

[0037] The blank 10 includes a plurality of inner or reinforcing panels 12, 14, 22, 24, including a first inner side panel 14 which is hinged to a first outer side panel 16 by a hinged connector in the form of a fold line 15. The first inner upper panel 12 is hinged to the first inner side panel 14 by a hinged connector in the form of a fold line 13. The second inner side panel 22 is hinged to the second outer side panel 20 by a hinged connector in the form of a fold line 21. The second inner upper panel 24 is hinged to the second inner side panel 22 by a hinged connector in the form of a fold line 23.

[0038] The blank 10 includes an article engagement structure, which includes at least one external article receiving opening A2 in each of the first and second outer side panels 16, 20, and at least one internal article receiving opening A1 in each of the first and second inner side panels 14, 22. The illustrated embodiment includes a pair of external article receiving openings A2 in each of the first and second outer side panels 16, 20, and a pair of internal article receiving openings A1 in each of the first and second inner side panels 14, 22. Each external article receiving opening A2 takes the form of an aperture A2, which is punched out from or defined within at least one of the first and second outer side panels 16, 20. In an alternative embodiment, the aperture A2 can be partially punched out from the top panel 18.

[0039] The internal article receiving opening A1 takes the form of an aperture A1, which is punched out from or defined within one of each of the first and second internal side panels 14, 22, and may also be defined within or punched out from one of each of the first and second internal upper panels 12, 24, which are hinged to one of the first and second internal side panels 14, 22, as shown in the illustrated embodiment.

[0040] The outer article receiving opening A2 interrupts one of the hinged connections or fold lines 17, 19 between the upper panel 18 and the first or second outer side panels 16, 20. The upper panel 18 includes at least one tab extending outward from the side edge of the upper panel 18 defined by the hinged connections or fold lines 17, 19. The illustrated embodiment includes four tabs. The tabs are punched out from material which would otherwise form part of one of the first and second outer side panels 16, 20.

[0041] The inner article receiving opening A1 interrupts one of the hinged connection points or fold lines 13, 23 between one of the first and second inner upper panels 12, 24 and one of the first and second inner side panels 14, 22 to which it is hinged.

[0042] Each of the first and second inner upper panels 12, 24 includes at least one tab extending outward from the side edge of the inner upper panel 12, 24, the side edge of which is defined by a hinged connection or fold line 13, 23 between the inner upper panel 12, 24 and one of the first and second inner side panels 14, 22 to which it is hinged. In the illustrated embodiment, each inner upper panel 12, 24 includes two tabs. The tabs are punched out from a material which would otherwise form part of one of the first and second inner side panels 14, 22.

[0043] Each of the first and second outer side panels 16, 20 includes at least one engaging member 26. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second outer side panels 16, 20 each include two engaging members 26. Each engaging member 26 is partially defined by one of the outer article receiving openings A2, which define a first engaging edge or upper engaging edge E1 of the engaging member 26. The first engaging edge or upper engaging edge E1 can be linear in shape. Each engaging member 26 is partially defined by a pair of fold lines 29, 31 defined within the first or second outer side panel 16, 20. The pair of fold lines 29, 31 can be divergent to each other and can be positioned to diverge toward the outer article receiving openings A2. The engaging member 26 is partially defined by a cut line 25, which interrupts the respective fold lines 15, 21 between the inner side panels 14, 22 and the outer side panels 16, 20. The cut line 25 defines the lower edge E2 of the engaging member 26, which substantially faces the first engaging edge or the upper engaging edge E1. The lower edge E2 can form a second engaging edge. The cut line 25 can be nonlinear and can include at least two linear portions that are divergently arranged relative to each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the cut line 25 includes three adjacent linear portions that are divergently arranged relative to their adjacent neighborhoods. In other embodiments, the cut line 25 can include one or more curved elements.

[0044] The cut line 25 defines the lower free edge of one of the inner side panels 14, 22. The lower free edge and one of the inner article receiving openings A1 define a second engaging member 28 between them, which can reinforce or strengthen one of the engaging members 26 and together form a two-ply structure. The second engaging member 28 includes a third engaging edge or inner upper engaging edge E3 defined by a portion of the inner article receiving opening A1. The second engaging member 28 can engage with article B in a location different from where the first engaging member 26 engages with article B. For example, but not limited to, the first engaging member 26 can engage with a cap or closure C of article B, where the cap or closure C defines a projection or flange, and below that, the first engaging member 26 engages with the cap C to support or suspend article B. The second engaging member 28 can engage with the neck portion of article B, which may include a second projection or flange. Article B may be suspended or supported by a third engaging edge or inner upper engaging edge E3. The third engaging edge or inner upper engaging edge E3 may be curved or non-linear in shape.

[0045] The second flange provided by article B can be positioned radially inward of the flange provided by cap C. The second flange can be positioned at a height below the height of the flange provided by cap C.

[0046] The engaging member 26 may include a relief cut 27 that extends upward from the cut line 25.

[0047] The blank 10 includes a handle structure, which includes two pairs of handle tabs 40A, 40B disposed on opposing sides of the upper panel 18. The first pair of tabs 40A, 40B are punched out (or defined within) the first inner and outer side panels 14, 16. The second pair of tabs 40A, 40B are punched out (or defined within) the second inner and outer side panels 20, 22.

[0048] The first tab 40A of the first pair of tabs 40A, 40B is punched out (or defined within) the first inner side panel 14. The second tab 40B of the first pair of tabs 40A, 40B is punched out (or defined within) the first outer side panel 16. The first tab 40A of the first pair of tabs 40A, 40B is hinged to the second tab 40B of the first pair of tabs 40A, 40B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 41. The fold line 41 is collinear with the fold line 15 that hinges the first inner side panel 14 to the first outer side panel 16. The first tab 40A of the first pair of tabs 40A, 40B is hinged to the first inner side panel 14 by a hinged connector in the form of a fold line 43A. The second tab 40B of the first pair of tabs 40A, 40B is hinged to the first outer side panel 16 by a hinged connector in the form of a fold line 43B.

[0049] The first tab 40A of the first pair of tabs 40A, 40B is partially defined by a pair of cut lines 45A, 47A, which are defined within the first inner side panel 14 and extend between the fold line 43A and the fold line 41, respectively. The pair of cut lines 45A, 47A can be positioned divergently from each other and can diverge toward the fold line 41.

[0050] The second tab 40B of the first pair of tabs 40A, 40B is partially defined by a pair of cut lines 45B, 47B, which are defined within the first outer side panel 16 and extend between the fold line 43B and the fold line 41, respectively. The pair of cut lines 45B, 47B can be positioned divergently from each other and can diverge toward the fold line 41. The first and second tabs 40A, 40B can be substantially trapezoidal in shape. The second tab 40B is a mirror image of the first tab 40A with respect to the fold line 41. When the first inner side panel 14 is folded to be in surface contact with the first outer side panel 16, the fold line 43A is aligned with the fold line 43B.

[0051] The cut lines 45A and 47A can be interrupted by connecting nick portions, which can be broken or cut, for example, during assembly and transport, to maintain the first tab within the plane of the first inner side panel 14, and when the handle is deployed.

[0052] The first tab 40A of the second pair of tabs 40A, 40B is punched out (or defined within) the second inner side panel 22. The second tab 40B of the second pair of tabs 40A, 40B is punched out (or defined within) the second outer side panel 20. The first tab 40A of the second pair of tabs 40A, 40B is hinged to the second tab 40B of the second pair of tabs 40A, 40B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 41. The fold line 41 is collinear with the fold line 21 that hinges the second inner side panel 22 to the second outer side panel 20. The first tab 40A of the second pair of tabs 40A, 40B is hinged to the second inner side panel 22 by a hinged connector in the form of a fold line. The second tab 40B of the second pair of tabs 40A, 40B is hinged to the second outer side panel 20 by a hinged connector in the form of a fold line.

[0053] The first tab 40A of the second pair of tabs 40A, 40B is partially defined by a pair of cut lines defined within the second inner side panel 22, which are positioned similarly to those of the first pair of tabs 40A, 40B.

[0054] The second tab 40B of the second pair of tabs 40A, 40B is partially defined by a pair of cut lines 45B, 47B defined within the first outer side panel 16, arranged similarly to those of the first pair of tabs 40A, 40B. The tabs 40A, 40B can be substantially trapezoidal in shape. The second tab 40B is a mirror image of the first tab 40A with respect to the fold line 41.

[0055] Each of the first and second pairs of tabs 40A, 40B is displaceable inward into the gap or void between two adjacently positioned articles B. Each of the first and second pairs of tabs 40A, 40B provides a handle edge defined by fold lines 43A, 43B, which the user can engage with. A two-ply construction of the handle tabs 40A, 40B can improve the strength of the handle structure, the comfort of the handle structure, or both strength and comfort.

[0056] In constructing the article carrier 90 from the blank 10, it is possible to apply glue G or other adhesive treatment to the first inner side panel 14 and the second inner side panel 22. In an alternative embodiment, the adhesive treatment can be applied to the corresponding areas of the first and second outer side panels 16, 20.

[0057] The first inner side panel 14, together with the first inner upper panel 12, is folded around the fold line 15, so that the first inner side panel 14 is in a surface connection relationship with the first outer side panel 16. The first inner side panel 14 can be fixed to the first outer side panel 16. The first inner upper panel 12 is in a position to face a portion of the upper panel 18.

[0058] The second inner side panel 22, together with the second inner upper panel 24, is folded around the fold line 21, so that the second inner side panel 22 is in a surface connection relationship with the second outer side panel 20. The second inner side panel 22 can be fixed to the second outer side panel 20. The second inner upper panel 24 is in a face-to-face relationship with a portion of the upper panel 18.

[0059] Therefore, the article carrier 90 can be formed in a flat, folded form and shipped or otherwise distributed. The carrier 90 can be assembled by lowering the top panel 18 together with the first and second inner top panels 12, 24 for a group of articles B. The first inner and outer side panels 14, 16 are folded around the first sides of the group of articles B and around the fold lines 13, 17 to engage with the articles B. A portion of each article B is received into one of the article receiving openings A1 / A2, as shown in Figures 2 and 3.

[0060] The second inner and outer side panels 22, 20 are folded around the fold lines 23, 19 around the second (opposite) sides of the group of articles B and engage with the articles B. Each portion of the articles B is received into one of the article receiving openings A1 / A2.

[0061] Referring here to Figures 4 to 6, further additional embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. Figure 4 shows a blank 110 for forming a carton or carrier 190 (see Figures 5 and 6) according to a second embodiment. In the second illustrated embodiment, similar numbers are used to indicate similar parts where possible, but with the addition of the prefix "100" to indicate that these features belong to the second embodiment. The alternative embodiments share many common features with the embodiments in Figures 1 to 3, and therefore only the differences from the embodiments illustrated in Figures 1 to 3 will be described in more detail.

[0062] The blank 110 includes a number of panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, and 124 arranged linearly in series, which are hinged to each other by fold lines 113, 115, 117, 119, 121, and 123, respectively.

[0063] Multiple panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, and 124 form an upper engagement clip. The blank 110 includes multiple outer panels 116, 118, and 120, including a first outer side panel or shoulder panel 116. The upper panel 118 is hinged to the first outer side panel 116 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 117 along its first side edge. The second outer side panel 120 is hinged to the upper panel 118 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 119 along its second (opposite) side edge.

[0064] The blank 110 includes a plurality of inner or reinforcing panels 112, 114, 122, 124, including a first inner side panel 114 which is hinged to a first outer side panel 116 by a hinged connector in the form of a fold line 115. The first inner upper panel 112 is hinged to the first inner side panel 114 by a hinged connector in the form of a fold line 113. The second inner side panel 122 is hinged to the second outer side panel 120 by a hinged connector in the form of a fold line 121. The second inner upper panel 124 is hinged to the second inner side panel 122 by a hinged connector in the form of a fold line 123.

[0065] The blank 110 includes an article engagement structure, which includes at least one external article receiving opening A2 in each of the first and second outer side panels 116, 120, and at least one internal article receiving opening A1, A3 in each of the first and second inner side panels 114, 122. The illustrated embodiment includes three external article receiving openings A2 in each of the first and second outer side panels 116, 120, and three internal article receiving openings A1, A3 in each of the first and second inner side panels 114, 122. Each external article receiving opening A2 takes the form of an aperture A2, which is punched out from or defined within at least one of the first and second outer side panels 116, 120. In an alternative embodiment, the aperture A2 can be partially punched out from the top panel 118.

[0066] The outer article receiving opening A2 interrupts one of the hinged connections or fold lines 117, 119 between the upper panel 118 and the first or second outer side panels 116, 120. The upper panel 118 includes at least one tab extending outward from the side edge of the upper panel 118, which is defined by the hinged connections or fold lines 117, 119. The illustrated embodiment includes six tabs. The tabs are punched out from material which would otherwise form part of one of the first and second outer side panels 116, 120. The tabs are defined by a portion of the aperture A2 of the outer article receiving opening A2.

[0067] The inner article receiving openings A1, A3 include a pair of outermost inner article receiving openings A3 and a middle or intermediate inner article receiving opening A1. The middle or intermediate inner article receiving opening A1 takes the form of an aperture A1, which is punched out from or defined within one of each of the first and second inner side panels 114, 122, and may also be defined within or punched out from one of each of the first and second inner upper panels 112, 124, which are hinged to one of the first and second inner side panels 114, 122, as shown in the illustrated embodiment.

[0068] Each of the pair of outermost inner article receiving openings A3 takes the form of an aperture A3, which is punched out of or defined within one of the first and second inner side panels 114, 122, respectively.

[0069] The internal article receiving openings A1 and A3 interrupt one of the hinged connections or fold lines 113 and 123 between one of the first and second internal upper panels 112 and 124 and one of the first and second internal side panels 114 and 122 to which it is hinged.

[0070] Each of the first and second inner upper panels 112, 124 includes a tab extending outward from its side edge, the side edge of which is defined by a hinged connection or fold line 113, 123 between the inner upper panel 112, 124 and one of the first and second inner side panels 114, 122 to which it is hinged. The tab is punched out from material which would otherwise form part of one of the first and second inner side panels 114, 122. The tab is defined by a portion of the aperture A1 of the intermediate inner article receiving opening A1. Each aperture A3 of the pair of outermost inner article receiving openings A3 includes a linear edge adjacent to or interrupting one of the fold lines 113, 123, and does not define a tab extending from the respective inner upper panels 112, 124.

[0071] The blank 110 includes a handle structure, which includes four pairs of handle tabs 140A, 140B arranged on opposing sides of the upper panel 118. Each pair of handle tabs 140A, 140B is substantially identical in construction and will be described with reference to the pair of handle tabs 140A, 140B in the first inner and outer side panels 114, 116.

[0072] A pair of handle tabs 140A, 140B are punched out from (or defined within) the first inner and outer side panels 114, 116. The first tab 140A of the pair of handle tabs 140A, 140B is punched out from (or defined within) the first inner side panel 114. The second tab 140B of the pair of handle tabs 140A, 140B is punched out from (or defined within) the first outer side panel 116. The first tab 140A of the pair of handle tabs 140A, 140B is hinged to the second tab 140B of the pair of handle tabs 140A, 140B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 141. The fold line 141 is collinear with the fold line 115 that hinges the first inner side panel 114 to the first outer side panel 116. The first tab 140A of a pair of handle tabs 140A, 140B is hinged to the first inner side panel 114 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 143A. The fold line 143A extends from the fold line 115 and is oriented obliquely to the fold line 115, while in the embodiment of Figure 1, the fold line 43A is parallel to the fold line 15 and is spaced apart from the fold line 15. The second tab 140B of the pair of handle tabs 140A, 140B is hinged to the first outer side panel 116 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 143B. The fold line 143B extends from the fold line 115 and is oriented diagonally with respect to the fold line 115, while in the embodiment of Figure 1, the fold line 43B is parallel to the fold line 15 and is positioned at a distance from the fold line 15.

[0073] The first tab 140A of a pair of handle tabs 140A, 140B is partially defined by a cut line 145A, which is defined within the first inner side panel 114 and extends between the fold line 143A and the fold line 141.

[0074] The second tab 140B of a pair of handle tabs 140A, 140B is defined by a cut line 145B, which is defined within the first outer side panel 116 and extends between the fold line 143B and the fold line 141.

[0075] The first and second tabs 140A and 140B can be substantially triangular in shape. The second tab 140B is a mirror image of the first tab 140A with respect to the fold line 141. When the first inner side panel 114 is folded so as to be in surface contact with the first outer side panel 116, the fold line 143A is aligned with the fold line 143B.

[0076] The cut line 145A can be interrupted by a connecting nick, which can be broken or cut, for example, during assembly and transport, to maintain the first tab 140A within the plane of the first inner side panel 114, and when the handle is deployed.

[0077] The first inner and outer side panels 114, 116 include a second pair of handle tabs, which are positioned on opposing sides of the intermediate article receiving openings A1, A2, and the second pair of handle tabs are mirror images of the first pair of handle tabs 140A, 140B with respect to a conceptual line that bisects the blank 110 transversely.

[0078] The first pair of handle tabs 140A and 140B are configured to bend in the opposite direction to the second pair of handle tabs.

[0079] The first pair of handle tabs 140A, 140B are configured to bend toward the first end of the carrier 190 or blank 110, and the second pair of handle tabs are configured to bend toward the second (opposite) end of the carrier 190 or blank 110.

[0080] This disclosure provides an article carrier 90;190 comprising first panels 14, 22; 114, 122 and second panels 16, 20; 116, 120 hinged together along fold lines 15, 21; 115, 121. The first panels 14, 22; 114, 122 and the second panels 16, 20; 116, 120 have first and second openings A2, A1 which are at least partially defined within the first panels 14, 22; 114, 122 and the second panels 16, 20; 116, 120, respectively. The first and second openings A2, A1 are spaced apart from the fold lines 15, 21; 115, 121. The fold lines 15, 21; 115, 121 include at least one first section S1 and at least one second section S2. At least one first section S1 is interposed between the first and second openings A2, A1. The bending resistance of at least one first section S1 is substantially less than the bending resistance of at least one second section S2.

[0081] The disclosure also provides a carton 90;190 including a handle member comprising a pair of first and second tabs 40A, 40B; 140A, 140B arranged in surface contact with each other. The first tabs 40A; 140A are formed from first carton panels 14, 22; 114, 122 and are hinged to them. The second tabs 40B; 140B are formed from second carton panels 16, 20; 116, 120 and are hinged to them. The first tabs 40A; 140A are separated from the first carton panels 14, 22; 114, 122 by at least one first cut line 45A, 47A; 145A. The second tabs 40B;140B are separated from the second carton panels 16, 20;116, 120 by at least one second cut line 45B, 47B;145B. The first and second tabs 40A, 40B;140A, 140B are hinged together along the fold lines 41;141.

[0082] This disclosure provides an upper engaging article carrier 90;190 comprising a plurality of panels, including an upper panel 18;118, a pair of inclined side panels 16, 20;116;120 hinged along the opposing side edges of the upper panel 18;118, and at least two article engaging devices. The carrier 90;190 further includes a handle member disposed between the at least two article engaging devices. The handle member includes at least one tab 40A, 40B; 140A, 140B, the at least one tab 40A, 40B; 140A, 140B being at least partially defined by at least two fold lines 41 / 43A, 41 / 43B; 141 / 143A, 141 / 143B, and by at least one cut line 45A, 47A; 145A extending between the at least two fold lines 41 / 43A, 41 / 43B; 141 / 143A, 141 / 143B.

[0083] The first of at least two fold lines 41 / 43A, 41 / 43B;141 / 143A, 141 / 143B is capable of defining at least a portion of the end of the handle member, which is pivotable, displaceable, or foldable around the second of the at least two fold lines 43A, 43B;143A, 143B. The end of the handle member is furthest from the second of the at least two fold lines 43A, 43B;143A, 143B.

[0084] The disclosure further provides a carton 90;190 including an article engaging member 26;126 formed from at least first carton panels 16, 20;116, 120. The engaging member 26;126 is hinged to the first carton panels 16, 20;116, 120 by a pair of divergent fold lines 29, 31;129, 131 and includes a first engaging edge E1 substantially extending between the upper ends of the divergent fold lines 29, 31;129, 131. The engaging member 26;126 further includes a second engaging edge E2 opposite the first engaging edge E1. The second engaging edge E2 substantially extends between the lower ends of the divergent fold lines 29, 31;129, 131. The engaging member further includes cuts 27;127 extending upward from the second engaging edge E2 into the engaging member 26;126.

[0085] This disclosure provides an upper engaging carrier 90;190 comprising a plurality of panels, including first panels 14, 22; 114, 122 and second panels 16, 20; 116, 120 hinged together along fold lines 15, 21; 115, 121. The first panels 14, 22; 114, 122 include first engaging portions 26; 126. The second panels 16, 20; 116, 120 include second engaging portions 28; 128. The first and second engaging portions 26, 28; 126; 128 extend parallel to each other. The first engaging portions 26; 126 include a first engaging edge E1. The second engaging portions 28; 128 include a further engaging edge E3. The first engaging edge E1 is positioned at a first distance W1 from the fold lines 15, 21; 115, 121. A further engaging edge E3 is positioned at a second distance W2 from the fold lines 15, 21; 115, 121. The first distance W1 is greater than the second distance W2.

[0086] In the package, a first engaging edge E1 engages with the underside of the cap or closure C of article B, while a further engaging edge E3 engages with the underside of an annular rib or projection of the article located immediately below the open top of article B that the cap or closure C closes or seals. The annular rib or projection may be provided by the neck portion of the article to which the cap or closure C is fitted.

[0087] The first engaging edge E1 can be a linear edge, while the further engaging edge E3 can be a nonlinear or curved edge.

[0088] It can 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 apertures can be adjusted to accommodate articles of different sizes or shapes. The present invention is not limited to, and is not limited to, top-engaging carrier style cartons, but can be used in conjunction with other carton styles such as open-top crates, lidded crates or closed-top crates, and fully enclosed cartons.

[0089] In one embodiment, the middle panel may be omitted, and the partition structure may be formed from a first of a pair of opposing wall panels, or may be omitted altogether.

[0090] When used herein, directional references such as “top,” “bottom,” “base,” “front,” “back,” “edge,” “side,” “inside,” “outside,” “upper side,” and “lower side” should be recognized as not necessarily limiting each panel to such orientation, but merely serving to distinguish these panels from one another.

[0091] As used herein, the terms “hinged joint” and “fold line” refer to all forms of lines that define a hinged feature of a blank, facilitating the folding of portions of the blank toward each other, or otherwise indicating the optimal panel folding location for the blank. References to “hinged joint” should not necessarily be interpreted as referring only to a single fold line. In fact, a hinged joint can be formed from two or more fold lines, where each of the two or more fold lines can be either straight / linear or curved / curved. When linear fold lines form a hinged joint, they can be arranged parallel to each other or at a slight angle to each other. When curved fold lines form a hinged joint, they can intersect each other and define the molded panel within the area enclosed by the curved fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may include a pair of arched or arc-shaped folds that intersect at two points, defining an elliptical panel between them. A hinged connection can be formed from one or more linear folds and one or more curved folds. A typical example of such a hinged connection may include a combination of linear folds and arched or arc-shaped folds that intersect at two points, defining a crescent-shaped panel between them.

[0092] As used herein, the term “fold line” can refer to any of the following: a scored line, an embossed line, a debossed line, a perforated line, a short slit line, a half-cut line, a single half-cut, a broken cut line, a aligned slit line, a scored line, and any combination of the above options.

[0093] It should be understood that hinged connections and fold lines can each include elements formed within the blank substrate, such as perforations, perforation lines, short slit lines, half-cut lines, single half-cuts, cut lines, interrupted cut lines, slits, scores, and any combination thereof. The elements can be dimensioned and positioned to provide the desired functionality. For example, perforation lines can be dimensioned or designed with a certain degree of weakness to define a fold line or a cutting line or both. Perforation lines can be designed to facilitate bending and resist breakage, to facilitate bending and facilitate breakage with greater effort, or to facilitate breakage with little effort.

[0094] As used herein, the phrase “aligned with” refers to the alignment of two or more elements within an assembled carton, such as an aperture formed in a first of two overlapping panels and a second aperture formed in a second of two overlapping panels. These elements that are aligned with each other can be aligned with each other in the direction of the thickness of the overlapping panels. For example, when an aperture in a first panel is “aligned with” a second aperture in a second panel that is installed in an overlapping arrangement with the first panel, the edge of the aperture can extend along at least a portion of the edge of the second aperture and can be aligned with the second aperture in the direction of the thickness of the first and second panels. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0095] 10 Blank 12. First inner upper panel 13 Folding lines 14. First inner side panel 15 Folding lines 16. First outer side panel 17 Folding lines 18 Top panel 19 Folding lines 20. Second outer side panel 21 Folding line 22 Second inner side panel 23 Folding lines 24. Second inner upper panel 25 cut lines 26 First engaging member 27 Relief cut 28 Second engaging member 29 Folding line 31 Folding lines 40A First tab 40B Second tab 41 Folding line 43A Folding line 43B Folding line 45A cut wire 45B cut line 47A Cut wire 47B Cut line 90 cartons, goods carrier 110 Blank 112 First Inner Upper Panel 113 Folding line 114 First inner side panel 115 Folding line 116 First outer side panel 117 Folding line 118 Top Panel 119 Folding line 120 Second outer side panel 121 Folding line 122 Second inner side panel 123 Folding line 124 Second inner upper panel 126 First engaging member 127 Relief cut 128 Second engaging member 129 Folding line 131 Folding line 140A First tab 140B Second tab 141 Folding line 143A Folding line 143B Folding line 145A cut wire 145B Cut line 190 cartons, goods carrier A1 Internal item receiving opening A2 External article receiving opening A3 Internal item receiving opening B Goods C cap, closure E1 First engagement edge or upper engagement edge E2 Lower edge E3 Third engagement edge or inner upper engagement edge G-glue S1 Section 1 S2 Section 2 W1 First distance W2 2nd Distance

Claims

1. An article carrier for packaging one or more articles, the article carrier comprising a first panel and a second panel, the second panel being hinged to the first panel along a fold line, the first panel and the second panel having a first opening and a second opening, respectively, at least partially defined within the first panel and the second panel, the first opening and the second opening being spaced apart from the fold line, the fold line comprising at least one first section and at least one second section, the at least one first section being interposed between the first opening and the second opening, and the bending resistance of the at least one first section being substantially less than the bending resistance of the at least one second section.

2. A carton for packaging one or more articles, the carton comprising a handle member, the handle member comprising a pair of tabs arranged in surface contact with each other, the first tab being formed from a first carton panel and hinged to the first carton panel, the second tab being formed from a second carton panel and hinged to the second carton panel, the first tab being separated from the first carton panel by at least one first cut line, the second tab being separated from the second carton panel by at least one second cut line, and the first tab and the second tab being hinged to each other along a fold line.

3. An upper-engaged article carrier for packaging one or more articles, the upper-engaged article carrier comprising a plurality of panels including an upper panel; a pair of inclined side panels hinged along opposing side edges of the upper panel; and at least two article engaging devices, the upper-engaged article carrier further comprising a handle member disposed between the at least two article engaging devices, the handle member comprising at least one tab, the at least one tab being at least partially defined by at least two fold lines and at least one cut line extending between the at least two fold lines.

4. The upper engaging article carrier according to claim 3, wherein the first of the at least two fold lines defines at least a portion of the end of the handle member, and the end is pivotable or displaceable about the second of the at least two fold lines.

5. The upper engaging article carrier according to claim 4, wherein the end of the handle member is furthest from the second of the at least two bends.

6. A carton for packaging one or more articles, the carton comprising an article engaging member formed from at least a first carton panel, the article engaging member being hinged to the first carton panel by a pair of divergent fold lines, the article engaging member comprising a first engaging edge substantially extending between the upper ends of the divergent fold lines, and a second engaging edge opposite the first engaging edge, the second engaging edge substantially extending between the lower ends of the divergent fold lines, and the article engaging member further comprising a cut extending upward from the second engaging edge into the article engaging member.

7. An upper engagement carrier for packaging one or more articles, the upper engagement carrier comprising a plurality of panels, including a first panel and a second panel, the second panel being hinged to the first panel along a fold line, the first panel comprising a first engagement portion, the second panel comprising a second engagement portion, the first and second engagement portions extending side by side with respect to each other, the first engagement portion comprising a first engagement edge disposed at a first distance from the fold line, the second engagement portion comprising a further engagement edge disposed at a second distance from the fold line, the first distance being greater than the second distance.

8. The upper engaging carrier according to claim 7, wherein the first engaging edge is a linear edge, and the further engaging edge is a nonlinear or curved edge.

9. A package comprising the upper engaging carrier according to claim 7 and at least one article, wherein the first engaging edge engages with the underside of a closure of the article, and the further engaging edge engages with the underside of an annular rib or projection of the article, the annular rib or projection being positioned immediately below the open top of the article, and the closure being fitted onto the open top of the article and closing an opening therein.

10. The package according to claim 9, wherein the annular rib or projection is provided by the neck portion of the article to which the closure is attached.

11. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a first panel and a second panel, the second panel being hinged to the first panel along a fold line, the first panel and the second panel having a first opening and a second opening, respectively, at least partially defined within the first panel and the second panel, the first opening and the second opening being spaced apart from the fold line, the fold line comprising at least one first section and at least one second section, the at least one first section being interposed between the first opening and the second opening, and the bending resistance of the at least one first section being substantially less than the bending resistance of the at least one second section.

12. A blank for an article carrier, the blank comprising a plurality of primary panels for forming the article carrier, the blank comprising a handle member, the handle member comprising a pair of tabs configured to be arranged in surface contact with each other in a set-up carrier, the pair of tabs comprising a first tab and a second tab, the first tab being formed from a first primary panel and hinged to the first primary panel, the second tab being formed from a second primary panel and hinged to the second primary panel, the second primary panel being hinged to the first primary panel, the first tab being separated from the first carton panel by at least one first cut line, the second tab being separated from the second carton panel by at least one second cut line, and the first and second tabs being hinged to each other along a fold line.

13. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a plurality of panels including an upper panel; a pair of side panels, each hinged along one of a pair of opposing side edges of the upper panel; and at least two article engaging devices, the blank further comprising a handle member disposed between the at least two article engaging devices, the handle member comprising at least one tab, the at least one tab being at least partially defined by at least two fold lines and at least one cut line extending between the at least two fold lines.

14. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a plurality of primary panels for forming the article carrier, wherein an article engaging member is formed from at least a first primary panel, the article engaging member is hinged to the first primary panel by a pair of divergent fold lines, the article engaging member comprises a first engaging edge substantially extending between the upper ends of the divergent fold lines and a second engaging edge opposite the first engaging edge, the second engaging edge substantially extending between the lower ends of the divergent fold lines, and the article engaging member further comprises a cut extending upward from the second engaging edge into the article engaging member.

15. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a plurality of primary panels, including a first primary panel and a second primary panel, the second primary panel being hinged to the first primary panel along a fold line, the first primary panel comprising a first engagement portion, the second primary panel comprising a second engagement portion, the first engagement portion and the second engagement portion extending side by side with respect to each other, the first engagement portion comprising a first engagement edge positioned at a first distance from the fold line, the second engagement portion comprising a further engagement edge positioned at a second distance from the fold line, the first distance being greater than the second distance, the blank.

Images