Cartons and blanks therefor

Abstract

Embodiments of the present disclosure relate to cartons for packaging one or more items, and blanks for forming the cartons. The present invention provides a corner-folded arrangement including a first panel having a corner defined by an end edge and a side edge. A second panel is hingedly connected to the end edge of the first panel along a first fold line. A third panel is hingedly connected to the side edge of the first panel along a second fold line. A fourth panel and a fifth panel join the second panel to the third panel. The fourth panel is hingedly connected to the second panel along the third fold line, and the fifth panel is hingedly connected to the third panel along the fourth fold line. A cut line extends between the first fold line and the fourth fold line or between the second fold line and the third fold line. In the unfolded blank form, the cut line bypasses the imaginary intersection of the first and second folds, such that the imaginary intersection is located on one side of the cut line spaced apart from the fourth and fifth panels.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 948,471, filed December 16, 2019, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

[0002] The present invention relates to cartons or carriers and to blanks for forming the same. More particularly, but not exclusively, the present invention relates to corner fold structures and carriers comprising the same. [Background technology]

[0003] In the packaging art, it is known to provide cartons for carrying multiple items. Cartons are well known in the industry and are useful for enabling consumers to transport, store, and use a group of consumer goods. Cost and environmental considerations dictate that such cartons or carriers be formed from as little material as possible and generate as little waste as possible in the materials formed. An additional consideration is the strength of the carton and its stability to hold and transport large weights of items. It is desirable that the contents of the carton be secure within the carton. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 20150225155 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] It is an object of the present disclosure to provide an article carrier with improved machine handling characteristics.

[0006] The present invention seeks to make improvements in the field of cartons, which are typically formed from cardboard or the like. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] One aspect of the present invention provides a corner-folded arrangement comprising a first panel, a second panel, and a third panel. The first panel has a corner defined by an end edge and a side edge. The second panel may be hinged to the end edge of the first panel along the first fold line. The third panel may be hinged to the side edge of the first panel along the second fold line. A fourth panel and a fifth panel hinged thereto may join the second panel to the third panel. The fourth panel is hinged to the second panel along the third fold line. The fifth panel is hinged to the third panel along the fourth fold line. A cut line extends between the first fold line and the fourth fold line or between the second fold line and the third fold line. In the unfolded blank form, the cut line bypasses the imaginary intersection of the first and second folds, such that the imaginary intersection is located on one side of the cut line spaced apart from the fourth and fifth panels.

[0008] Another aspect of the present invention provides a carton for packaging one or more articles, comprising a plurality of panels forming walls of a tubular structure having an interior. The plurality of panels includes a first panel, a second panel, and a third panel. The first panel has corners defined by end edges and side edges. The second panel may be hingedly connected to the end edge of the first panel along a first fold line. The third panel may be hingedly connected to the side edge of the first panel along a second fold line. Fourth and fifth panels hinged thereto join the second panel to the third panel. The fourth panel is hingedly connected to the second panel along the third fold line. The fifth panel is hingedly connected to the third panel along the fourth fold line. The fourth and fifth panels may be disposed within the interior of the carton. A cut line extends between the first and fourth fold lines or between the second and third fold lines, and in the unfolded blank form, the cut line bypasses the imaginary intersection of the first and second fold lines, such that the imaginary intersection is located on one side of the cut line spaced from the fourth and fifth panels.

[0009] Another aspect of the present invention provides a carton for packaging one or more articles, the carton comprising a plurality of panels forming walls of a tubular structure having an interior. The carton comprises a first wall having an end edge and a side edge adjacent the end edge, a second wall hingedly connected to the end edge of the first wall along a first fold line, and a third wall hingedly connected to the side edge of the first wall along a second fold line. A cut line extends at least between the first fold line and the second fold line. The cut line is divergently positioned with respect to one of the first fold line or the second fold line to at least partially define a protrusion integral with the first wall, the protrusion extending outward from the one of the first fold line or the second fold line.

[0010] Optionally, the carton comprises a pair of gusset panels hingedly connected to one another by a fifth fold line, the pair of gusset panels joining the second wall to the third wall, the pair of gusset panels being disposed within the interior of the carton.

[0011] Optionally, the carton comprises a first gusset panel hingedly connected to a side edge of the second wall along the third fold line, and a portion of the cut line extends between at least the first fold line and the third fold line, is integral with the second wall, and is divergently positioned with respect to the third fold line to at least partially define a protrusion extending outward from the third fold line.

[0012] Optionally, the carton includes a second gusset panel hingedly connected to an edge of the third wall along the fourth fold line, and a portion of the cut line extends between at least the fourth fold line and the second fold line, is integral with the third wall, and is divergently positioned with respect to the fourth fold line to at least partially define a protrusion extending outward from the fourth fold line.

[0013] Yet another aspect of the present invention provides a blank for forming a carton, the blank comprising a plurality of panels forming walls of a tubular structure defining an interior, the plurality of panels including a first panel, a second panel, and a third panel. The first panel has corners defined by end edges and side edges. The second panel may be hingedly connected to the end edge of the first panel along a first fold line. The third panel may be hingedly connected to the side edge of the first panel along a second fold line. Fourth and fifth panels hinged thereto join the second panel to the third panel. The fourth panel is hingedly connected to the second panel along the third fold line. The fifth panel is hingedly connected to the third panel along the fourth fold line. The fourth and fifth panels may be positioned within the interior of the erected carton. A cut line extends between the first and fourth fold lines or between the second and third fold lines, and in the unfolded blank form, the cut line bypasses the imaginary intersection of the first and second fold lines, such that the imaginary intersection is located on one side of the cut line spaced from the fourth and fifth panels.

[0014] Yet another aspect of the present invention provides a blank for forming a carton. The blank includes a first panel having corners defined by end edges and side edges. An end flap is hinged to the end edge of the first panel along a first fold line for at least partially closing the end of the carton. A side panel is hinged to the side edge of the first panel along a second fold line. A pair of hinged first and second gusset panels extend between the end flap and the side panel so as to be positioned below one of the end flap and the side panel when the carton is erected. The first gusset panel is hinged to the end flap along a third fold line, and the second gusset panel is hinged to the side panel along a fourth fold line. A cut line extends between the first and fourth fold lines or between the second and third fold lines. The cutting line bypasses the imaginary intersection of the first fold and the second fold, whereby the imaginary intersection is located on one side of the cutting line spaced apart from the first gusset panel and the second gusset panel.

[0015] Yet another aspect of the present invention provides a blank for forming a carton. The blank includes a first panel having corners defined by end edges and side edges. An end flap is hinged to the end edge of the first panel along a first fold line for at least partially closing the end of the carton. A side panel is hinged to the side edge of the first panel along a second fold line. A pair of hinged first and second gusset panels extend between the end flap and the side panel so as to be positioned below one of the end flap and the side panel when the carton is erected. The first gusset panel is hinged to the end flap along a third fold line, and the second gusset panel is hinged to the side panel along a fourth fold line. A cut line extends between the first and fourth fold lines or between the second and third fold lines. The cutting line intersects at least the third fold or the fourth fold at a first intersection point, whereby the first intersection point is located closer to the first gusset panel than the imaginary intersection point of the first fold and the second fold.

[0016] Optionally, the cutting line is a straight line.

[0017] Optionally, the cutting line is non-linear. Optionally, the cutting line is curved. Optionally, the cutting line is arcuate. Optionally, the cutting line comprises at least two portions arranged divergently relative to each other. Optionally, the cutting line comprises at least two continuous portions arranged divergently relative to each other.

[0018] Optionally, the end flap comprises one or more additional folds.Optionally, the first panel comprises one or more additional folds.

[0019] Optionally, the cut line extends through the first panel. Optionally, the first panel is a top panel or a base panel.

[0020] Optionally, the cut lines extend through the side panels. Optionally, the cut lines extend through the end flaps.

[0021] Optionally, the cutting line is convex when viewed from the first gusset panel.Optionally, the cutting line is concave when viewed from the first gusset panel.

[0022] Optionally, the second gusset panel forms the anchor panel.

[0023] It is contemplated or intended that within the scope of this application, the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternatives set forth in the preceding sections, claims, and / or the following description and drawings may be considered or understood independently or in any combination thereof.

[0024] Features or elements described with respect to or 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 may be incorporated into or combined with any of the other embodiments disclosed herein, and the 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.

[0025] A feature or combination of features of an embodiment disclosed herein may be extracted separately from other features of that embodiment. Alternatively, a feature or combination of features of an embodiment may be omitted from that embodiment.

[0026] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0027] [Figure 1] 1 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carton according to a first embodiment; FIG. [Figure 2]2 is a top perspective view of a portion of a carton formed from the blank of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carton according to a second embodiment. [Figure 3B] FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of a portion of the blank of FIG. 3. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of a portion of a partially erected carton formed from the blank of FIG. 3. [Figure 5] FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of a portion of a carton formed from the blank of FIG. 3. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carton according to a third embodiment. [Figure 6B] FIG. 7 is an enlarged view of a portion of the blank of FIG. 6. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of a portion of a partially erected carton formed from the blank of FIG. 6. [Figure 8] FIG. 7 is a top perspective view of a portion of a carton formed from the blank of FIG. 6. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carton according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carton according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 10B] FIG. 11 is an enlarged view of a portion of the blank of FIG. [Figure 10C] FIG. 10 is a plan view from above of a portion of a blank for forming a carton according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carton according to a seventh embodiment. [Figure 12] FIG. 13 is a plan view from above of a portion of a blank for forming a carton according to an eighth embodiment. [Figure 13A] 10 is a top perspective view of a portion of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 9. FIG. [Figure 13B]10 is a top perspective view of a portion of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 9. FIG. [Figure 14] 11 is a top perspective view of a portion of a carton formed from the blank of FIG. 10. FIG. [Figure 15A] 12 is a top perspective view of a portion of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 11. FIG. [Figure 15B] 12 is a top perspective view of a portion of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 11. FIG. [Figure 16] FIG. 13 is a plan view from above of a portion of a blank for forming a carton according to a ninth embodiment. [Figure 17] FIG. 19 is a plan view from above of a portion of a blank for forming a carton according to a tenth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0028] Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of packages, blanks, and cartons are disclosed herein. It should be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of ways in which certain aspects of the present invention may be implemented and do not represent an exhaustive list of all ways in which the present invention may be embodied. As used herein, the word "exemplary" is used broadly to refer to embodiments that serve as illustrations, examples, models, or patterns. Indeed, it should be understood that the packages, blanks, and cartons described herein may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The drawings 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 specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to variously utilize the present invention.

[0029] Referring to Figure 1, there is shown a plan view of a blank 10 from which a carton or carrier 90, as shown in Figure 2, can be formed for containing and carrying a group of primary products, such as, but not limited to, bottles or cans, hereafter referred to as Item B. The blank 10 forms a secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package.

[0030] Referring to FIG. 3, there is shown a plan view of a blank 110 from which a carton or carrier 190, as shown in FIGS. 4 and 5, can be formed for containing and carrying a group of primary products.

[0031] Referring to FIG. 6, there is shown a plan view of a blank 210 from which a carton or carrier 290, as shown in FIGS. 7 and 8, can be formed for containing and carrying a group of primary products.

[0032] 9, 10, 10C, 11, 12 and 17, there are shown plan views of blanks 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810 from which cartons or carriers 390, 490, 690, as shown in FIGS. 13A, 13B, 14, 15A and 15B, for containing and carrying a group of primary products, are formed.

[0033] In the embodiments detailed herein, the terms "carton" and "carrier" refer to containers 90, 190, 290, 390, 490, 690 for engaging and carrying articles B, such as primary product containers B, for non-limiting purposes of illustrating various features of the present invention. It is contemplated that the teachings of the present invention may be applied to a variety of product containers B, which may or may not be tapered and / or cylindrical. Exemplary containers include bottles B (e.g., metal, glass, or plastic bottles), cans (e.g., aluminum cans), tin cans, pouches, packets, and the like.

[0034] The blanks 10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810 are formed from sheets of a suitable substrate. As used herein, the term "suitable substrate" should be understood to include all forms of foldable sheet material, such as cardboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, etc. It should be recognized that one or more blanks may be utilized where appropriate, for example, to provide a carrier structure, as described in more detail below.

[0035] The packaging structures or cartons described herein may be formed from a sheet material, such as cardboard, that may be made from or coated with a material to increase its strength. An example of such a sheet material is the tear-resistant NATRALOCK® cardboard made by WestRock Company. It should be noted that the tear-resistant material 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 characteristics relative to the other surfaces. For example, the surface of the sheet material facing outward from the finished package may be particularly smooth or may have a coating, such as a clay coating or other surface treatment, to provide excellent printability. On the other hand, the surface of the sheet material facing inward may include a coating, layer, treatment, or may be otherwise prepared to provide one or more properties, such as tear resistance, excellent adhesion, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties.

[0036] In the embodiments illustrated in Figures 1, 3, 6, 11, and 12, blanks 10, 110, 210, 610, 710 are configured to form cartons or carriers 90, 190, 290, 690 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary items B. In the illustrated embodiment, the arrangement is a 3x2 matrix or array, and in the illustrated embodiment, two rows of three items B are provided. In the embodiment of Figure 1, items B are 12 ounce (approximately 355 ml) aluminum beverage cans. In the embodiments of Figures 3, 6, 11, and 12, items B are 12 ounce (approximately 355 ml) glass bottles.

[0037] 9, 10 and 10C, the blanks 310, 410, 510, 810 are configured to form cartons or carriers 390, 490 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary items B. In the illustrated embodiment, the arrangement is a 2x2 matrix or array, and in the illustrated embodiment, two rows of two items B are provided, where items B are 16 ounce (approximately 473 ml) beverage cans.

[0038] Alternatively, blanks 10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810 may be configured to form carriers for packaging other types, numbers and sizes of items B and / or for packaging items B in different arrangements or configurations.

[0039] The present invention generally relates to a carton 90, 190, 290, 390, 490, 690 for packaging an item B, the carton 90, 190, 290, 390, 490, 690 having a corner fold structure.

[0040] Referring to Figure 1, a blank 10 for forming a carton 90 according to a first embodiment is illustrated (see Figure 2). The blank 10 includes a plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 for forming a tubular structure. The plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 includes a first base panel 12, a first corner panel 14, a first side panel 16, a top panel 18, a second side panel 20, a second corner panel 22, and a second base panel 24. The plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 may be arranged in a linear series hingedly connected to one another by corresponding fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23.

[0041] In alternative embodiments, the first corner panel 14 and the second corner panel 22 may be omitted, and the fold lines 15, 21 may be omitted.

[0042] The first corner panel 14 and the second corner panel 22 may be considered to form the lower portion of the first side panel 16 or second side panel 20 to which they are hinged.

[0043] The blank 10 is foldable to form a package 90 as illustrated in FIG. 2. The first base panel 12 and the second base panel 24 are engageable with one another in an overlapping relationship to form the composite base wall 12 / 24 of the carton 90. The blank 10 may include complementary locking mechanisms for securing the second base panel 24 to the first base panel 12. The first base panel 12 may include at least one first portion M of the complementary locking mechanism. The second base panel 24 may include at least one second portion F of the complementary locking mechanism. In the illustrated embodiment, the second base panel 24 includes a plurality of female tabs F that define openings in the first base panel 12. The first base panel 12 includes a plurality of male tabs M, and the openings in the second base panel 24 are configured to receive each of the male tabs M. The female tabs F are positioned to be displaced from the second base panel 24 to bear against the male tabs M when received therein, forming an opening. In some embodiments, the complementary locking mechanism M / F may be omitted and the first base panel 12 and the second base panel 24 may be secured to one another by other means, such as, but not limited to, adhesive or staples.

[0044] Optionally, the first base panel 12 and the second base panel 24 may include at least one first opening A1. In the illustrated embodiment, the first base panel 12 and the second base panel 24 each include two first openings A1. Optionally, the first base panel 12 and the second base panel 24 may include at least one second opening A2. In the illustrated embodiment, the first base panel 12 includes one second opening A2. The first opening A1 and the second opening A2 may be utilized to facilitate construction of the carton 90. Packaging machine components may engage the first opening A1 and the second opening A2 to enable the multiple panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 to be fastened around a group of articles B. The first and second openings A1 and A2 may also be utilized to facilitate alignment of the first and second base panels 12 and 24 relative to one another or to align a first portion of a complementary locking feature with a second portion of a complementary locking feature. The complementary locking features shown and described are entirely optional.

[0045] The blank 10 may include at least one heel engagement structure for engaging the heel or bottom of the article B. The blank 10 illustrated in Figure 1 includes six heel engagement structures, each provided for engaging a respective article B. Each heel engagement structure is substantially similar in construction and will be described with reference to the heel engagement structures provided on the second side panel 20 and the second corner panel 22.

[0046] The heel-engagement structure may include an opening. The opening is defined in part by the heel opening A3 and in part by the heel tab 40. The heel tab 40 is hingedly connected to the second base panel 24 by a fold line 41. The heel tab 40 may be at least partially punched out of the second corner panel 22, if present, or from the second side panel 20. The heel tab 40 may be at least partially punched out of the second base panel 24.

[0047] Fold line 41 interrupts fold line 23 that hinges second base panel 24 to second corner panel 22. Fold line 41 may be non-linear, and in the illustrated embodiment, fold line 41 may be curved or arcuate in shape, or in other embodiments, may be formed from at least two linear breaks that are arranged divergently and contiguous with one another.

[0048] The heel tab 40 may include a pair of divergently arranged folds (not shown) that may define foldable corner portions of the heel tab 40 .

[0049] Top panel 18 may include an optional handle structure H. Handle structure H includes a pair of foldable finger tabs 60a, 60b. Finger tabs 60a, 60b are spaced apart from one another. Finger tabs 60a, 60b are hinged to top panel 18 by fold lines 61a, 61b and partially defined by cuts or tear lines 63a, 63b. First finger tab 60a is hinged to top panel 18 opposite second finger tab 60b.

[0050] Each of the panels 12, 16, 18, 20, 24 has a pair of cuts or recesses formed therein. The cuts are defined on opposite edges of the blank 10. The cuts include complete major cuts in the first side panel 16, the second side panel 20, and the top panel 18, and partial or minor cuts in the first base panel 12 and the second base panel 24.

[0051] A first cut is defined in the top panel 18 midway along each of its opposing edges. A second cut is defined in each edge of the first side panel 16. A third cut is defined in each edge of the second side panel 20.

[0052] A partial or small cut is defined in each of the opposing edges of each of the first and second base panels 12, 24.

[0053] As a result, the blank 10 has four tabs or projections along either longitudinal edge thereof, each interposed between adjacent ones of the notches.

[0054] As shown in Figure 1, the first upper protrusion is positioned across adjacent fold line 17. The second upper protrusion is positioned across adjacent fold line 19.

[0055] The first lower protrusion is positioned across adjacent fold lines 13, 15. The second lower protrusion is positioned across adjacent fold lines 21, 23.

[0056] The first and second upper protrusions provided material to form or help form edge retention structures to prevent the contents of the carton 90 from being removed from the carton 90 when the blank 10 is standing up in the carton 90. Each of the first and second upper protrusions includes cuts and creases to form upper engagement structures when folded along the creases.

[0057] More specifically, each upper projection includes an anchor panel 26a, 26b, 36a, 36b hingedly connected to the adjacent side panel 16, 20 along fold lines 25a, 35b, 39a, 39b. Each upper projection includes a gusset panel 28a, 28b, 34a, 34b hingedly connected to the anchor panel 26a, 26b, 36a, 36b along fold lines 27a, 27b, 37a, 37b.

[0058] Each upper projection includes a web panel 30a, 30b, 32a, 32b (also referred to herein as a top closure panel) hingedly connected to a gusset panel 28a, 28b, 34a, 34b along a respective extension 29a, 29b, 35a, 35b of fold lines 17, 19. Each upper projection includes a cover portion integrally formed with top panel 18. Each web panel 30a, 30b, 32a, 32b is hingedly connected to its respective cover portion by fold lines 31a, 31b, 33a, 33b.

[0059] The blank 10 includes a corner folding arrangement in the illustrated embodiment, which does not include a die-cut aperture but instead includes a gusset corner arrangement. Apertures or openings are typically placed in corner gusset panels to facilitate folding of the gusset panels; see, for example, U.S. Patent No. 6,277,496 to Ikeda. Such openings create scrap cardboard pieces that must be separated from the blank 10 during the high-speed die-cutting and blanking process; the scrap pieces may tend to hang or snag the blank 10 or may be scattered around the die-cutting station. These rough scrap pieces may end up in subsequent packaging machinery, where they can interfere with the assembly process and cause jams or downtime. They may also cause damage to the machinery or packaging.

[0060] The blank 10 includes four corner fold arrangements at each corner of the top panel 18, the corner fold arrangements being substantially identical and will be described with reference to an enlarged view of one of the corner arrangements shown in FIG.

[0061] The corner fold arrangement includes a tear line 70 in the form of a cut that extends across or intersects the fold line 19 between the top panel 18 and the second side panel 20, which fold line is also referred to herein as the second fold line 19.

[0062] A cut line 70 extends between the second side panel 20 and the anchor panel 36b from the fold line 39b, which is also referred to herein as the fourth fold line 39b.

[0063] The cut line 70 extends between the top panel 18 and the end flap 32b toward the fold line 33b. The cut line 70 may extend as far as the fold line 33b between the top panel 18 and the end flap 32b. The cut line 70 extends beyond or through the fold line 33b between the top panel 18 and the end flap 32b so as to extend into the top panel 18. The fold line 33b is also referred to herein as the first fold line 33b.

[0064] The cut line 70 extends across or through the fold line 35b between the top closure panel 32b and the gusset panel 34b, which fold line is also referred to herein as the third fold line 35b.

[0065] Severance line 70 extends across or through fold line 37b between anchor panel 36b and gusset panel 34b, which fold line is also referred to herein as fifth fold line 37b.

[0066] Cut lines 70 can be considered to intersect or terminate each of first fold line 33b, second fold line 19, third fold line 35b, fourth fold line 39b and fifth fold line 37b.

[0067] In the illustrated embodiment, the cut line 70 is non-linear and may be curved. In other embodiments, the cut line 70 may be defined by two or more linear segments diverging relative to one another. In still other embodiments, the cut line 70 may be linear. In embodiments in which the cut line 70 is linear, the cut line 70 may be diverging relative to the first fold line 33b and / or the fourth fold line 39b. The cut line 70 may be diverging relative to the second fold line 19 and oriented obliquely thereto.

[0068] A cutting line 70 extends between the first fold line 33b and the fourth fold line 39b.

[0069] The cut line 70 bypasses an imaginary intersection or point V between an imaginary extension of the first fold line 33b and the second fold line 19, such that the imaginary intersection point V is located on one side of the cut line 70. The imaginary intersection point V is located on a first side of the cut line 70, and the anchor panel 36b and the gusset panel 34b are located on a second, opposing side of the cut line 70. The imaginary intersection point V may be spaced apart from the anchor panel 36b and the gusset panel 34b.

[0070] The third fold 35b may intersect or pass through the imaginary intersection point V. The imaginary extensions of the fourth fold 39b and the fifth fold 37b may intersect or pass through the imaginary intersection point V.

[0071] The fifth fold 37b may be interrupted by a "U" shaped cut 43b to define a tab portion that is punched out of the material that would otherwise form the gusset panel 34b. The tab portion is integral with the anchor panel 36b.

[0072] Cut line 70 intersects third fold line 35b at a first intersection point P. First intersection point P is located closer to gusset panel 34b than imaginary intersection point V of first fold line 33b and second fold line 19.

[0073] Figure 16 shows an alternative embodiment to the corner fold arrangement shown in Figure 1. In this embodiment, cut line 70 includes an extension line 70a that extends cut line 70 further into top panel 18. In the embodiment of Figure 1, cut line 70 terminates within top panel 18 at a location that is substantially on imaginary extension line N1 of fourth fold line 39b, while in the ninth illustrated embodiment of Figure 16, extension line 70a extends cut line 70 beyond imaginary extension line N1 of fourth fold line 39b.

[0074] In alternative embodiments, the cut line 70 may terminate elsewhere, or may terminate at the edge of the top panel 18 defined by the first fold line 33b. In some embodiments, the cut line 70 may extend into the second side panel 20.

[0075] The folding of each top tab is accomplished during carton erection. To form the top closure structure of each top tab, anchor panels 26a, 26b, 36a, 36b are folded approximately 180 degrees into face-contacting relationship with the inner surface of the adjacent side panel 16, 20. The anchor panels 26a, 26b, 36a, 36b are held in the folded position by being pressed against the adjacent side panel 16, 20 by one of the packaged articles B. The folding of anchor panels 26a, 26b, 36a, 36b causes gusset panels 28a, 28b, 34a, 34b to fold outward about fold lines 27a, 27b, 37a, 37b, such that gusset panels 28a, 28b, 34a, 34b extend outward from fold lines 27a, 27b, 37a, 37b along the side walls of one packaged article B. Simultaneously, web panels 30a, 30b, 32a, 32b are caused to fold downward along fold lines 31a, 31b, 33a, 33b, thereby to a folded position extending between fold lines 31a, 31b, 33a, 33b and the outer edges of gusset panels 28a, 28b, 34a, 34b. The completed top closure structure is illustrated in FIG. 2, where the structure is shown securely engaging the top of one item B.

[0076] Each lower protrusion serves to provide sufficient material to define an adjacent, extreme heel opening A3. More specifically, the heel opening A3 adjacent to each lower protrusion is positioned so that sufficient material surrounds the heel opening A3 even when the heel opening A3 extends into that lower protrusion. During erection and packaging of the articles B, the blank 10 is manipulated so that each heel opening A3 receives the bottom of a respective article B to retain said article B within the carton 90. The heel tabs 40 also fold to help retain the articles B.

[0077] Referring to the construction of carton 90 as shown in Figure 2, carton 90 may be formed on a linear machine with a series of successive folding operations, whereby carton 90 does not need to be rotated or reversed to complete its construction. The folding process is not limited to that described below and may be modified according to specific manufacturing requirements.

[0078] A group of articles B is assembled, in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 2, six articles B arranged in a 3x2 array. The top panel 18 of the blank 10 is placed over the group of articles B to provide the top wall 18 of the carton 90.

[0079] The first side wall 16 and the second side wall 20 are folded around opposite sides of the group of articles B about fold lines 17, 19, respectively, against the top panel 18 so as to be disposed around opposite sides of the group of articles B.

[0080] The anchor portions 26a, 26b, 36a, 36b may be folded into a face-contacting relationship with a respective one of the first side walls 16 and the second side walls 20 substantially simultaneously with folding the first side panel 16 and the second side panel 20 relative to the top panel 18 to form the top end closure structure described above.

[0081] Alternatively, the top engagement structure may be formed after erection of the carton 90 into a tubular shape. The anchor portions 26a, 26b, 36a, 36b may be wedged between a respective one of the hinged first and second side panels 16, 20 and an adjacently disposed article B.

[0082] The first corner panel 14 and the second corner panel 22 are folded about the heel or bottom of the adjacently positioned article B, respectively, about fold lines 15, 21 relative to a respective one of the first side wall 16 and the second side wall 20.

[0083] The heel tab 40 may be folded out of the plane of the first corner panel 14 and the second corner panel 22 about the fold line 41 prior to folding one of the first corner panel 14 and the second corner panel 22, the first side wall 16 and the second side wall 20, respectively.

[0084] The second base panel 24 may be folded about fold line 23 so as to be positioned adjacent to the base of a group of articles B, and the first base panel 12 may then be folded about fold line 13 so as to be in at least a partial overlapping relationship with the second base panel 24, and in doing so, each heel tab 40 may be adapted to engage with the base of a respective article B.

[0085] The first base panel 12 and the second base panel 24 are secured together. Each male tab M is displaced inwardly from the plane of the first base panel 12. In doing so, each female tab F is displaced inwardly to create a corresponding opening in the second base panel 24. A male tab M is received in each of the openings to lock the first base panel 12 and the second base panel 24 together. In this manner, a tubular structure is formed around the group of articles B.

[0086] An erected carton 90, or at least a portion thereof, is shown in FIG.

[0087] 3-5, an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In the second illustrated embodiment, like numerals are used to designate like parts, but with the addition of a "100" prefix, where possible, to indicate that these features belong to the second embodiment.

[0088] 3, a blank 110 for forming a carton 190 according to a first embodiment is illustrated. The blank 110 includes a plurality of main panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124 for forming a tubular structure. The plurality of main panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124 includes a first base panel 112, a first lower panel 114, a first upper panel 116, a top panel 118, a second upper panel 120, a second lower panel 122, and a second base panel 124. The plurality of panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124 may be arranged in a linear series hingedly connected to one another by corresponding fold lines 113, 115, 117, 119, 121, 123.

[0089] The first base panel 112 is hingedly connected to a first lower panel 114 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 113. The first lower panel 114 is hingedly connected to a first upper panel 116 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 115. The first upper panel 116 is hingedly connected to a top panel 118 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 117. The top panel 118 is hingedly connected to a second upper panel 120 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 119. The second upper panel 120 is hingedly connected to a second lower panel 122 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 121. The second lower panel 122 is hingedly connected to a second base panel 124 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 123.

[0090] The first upper panel 116 and the first lower panel 114 form a first side wall 114 / 116 of the carton 190. The second upper panel 120 and the second lower panel 122 form a second side wall 120 / 122 of the carton 190.

[0091] The blank 110 is foldable to form a package 190, as shown in Figures 4 and 5. The first base panel 112 and the second base panel 124 are engageable with one another in an overlapping relationship to form the composite base wall 112 / 124 of the carton 190. The blank 110 may include complementary locking features for securing the second base panel 124 to the first base panel 112, arranged substantially as described with respect to the first embodiment of Figure 1.

[0092] The first base panel 112 and the second base panel 124 may include at least one first opening A1. In the illustrated embodiment, the first base panel 112 includes three first openings A1, and the second base panel 124 includes two first openings A1. The second base panel 124 may include at least one second opening A2. In the illustrated embodiment, the second base panel 124 includes one second opening A2. The first openings A1 and the second openings A2 may be utilized to facilitate construction of the carton 190.

[0093] The blank 110 includes at least one end closure structure for at least partially closing an end of a tubular structure defined by the plurality of panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124.

[0094] In the illustrated embodiment, end closure structures are provided to partially close each end of the tubular structure.

[0095] Each end closure structure may be arranged to partially close an end of the tubular structure so as to provide or define a display window for display of one or more items B positioned adjacent thereto.

[0096] The blank 110 includes a first end closure structure including a plurality of end closure panels 126a, 128a, 130a, 132a, 134a, 136a, 138a, 140a, 142a, 144a, 146a, 148a, and 150a.

[0097] The first end closure structure includes a first top closure flap 138a / 140a hinged to the top panel 118 by fold line 139a. The first top closure flap 138a / 140a includes an upper portion 138a hinged to a lower portion 140a by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 141a.

[0098] The first top end closure flap 134a is joined to the first upper panel 116 by a first top web panel 132a. The first top web panel 132a is hinged to the first upper panel 116 by a fold line 131a. The first top end closure flap 134a is hinged to the first web panel 132a by a fold line 133a.

[0099] The first top closure flap 134a is hingedly connected to the first top closure flap 138a / 140a by a first gusset panel 136a. The first top closure flap 134a is hingedly connected to the first gusset panel 136a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 135a. The first gusset panel 136a is hingedly connected to the first top closure flap 138a / 140a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 137a.

[0100] The blank 110 includes a corner fold arrangement at a first corner of the top panel 118 adjacent the first gusset panel 136a, the corner fold arrangement being described in more detail below.

[0101] The second top end closure flap 144a is joined to the second upper panel 120 by a second top web panel 146a. The second top web panel 146a is hinged to the second upper panel 120 by a fold line 147a. The second top end closure flap 144a is hinged to the second web panel 146a by a fold line 149a.

[0102] The second top closure flap 144a is hingedly connected to the first top closure flap 138a / 140a by a second gusset panel 142a. The second top closure flap 144a is hingedly connected to the second gusset panel 142a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 145a. The second gusset panel 142a is hingedly connected to the first top closure flap 138a / 140a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 143a.

[0103] The blank 110 includes a corner fold arrangement at a second corner of the top panel 118 adjacent the second gusset panel 142a, the corner fold arrangement being described in more detail below.

[0104] Optionally, the first end closure structure comprises a first lower end closure flap 126a hingedly connected to the first lower panel 114 by a first lower web panel 130a. The first lower end closure flap 126a is hingedly connected to the first lower web panel 130a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 125a. The first lower web panel 130a is hingedly connected to the first lower panel 114 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 129a.

[0105] Optionally, the second lower end closure flap 150a is hinged to the second lower panel 122 by the second lower web panel 148a. The second lower end closure flap 150a is hinged to the second lower web panel 148a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 153a. The second lower web panel 148a is hinged to the second lower panel 122 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 151a.

[0106] Optionally, first bottom end closure flap 128a is hinged to first base panel 112 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 127a. First lower end closure flap 126a, second lower end flap 150a, and first bottom end closure flap 128a are arranged to partially close a lower region of the open end of the tubular structure.

[0107] The blank 110 includes a second end closure structure including a plurality of end closure panels 126b, 128b, 130b, 132b, 134b, 136b, 138b, 140b, 142b, 144b, 146b, 148b, and 150b.

[0108] The second end closure structure includes a second top closure flap 138b / 140b hinged at its second end to the top panel 118 by fold line 139b. The second top closure flap 138b / 140b includes an upper portion 138b hinged to a lower portion 140b by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 141b.

[0109] The third top end closure flap 134b is joined to the first upper panel 116 by a third web panel 132b. The third web panel 132b is hinged to the first upper panel 116 by a fold line 131b. The third top end closure flap 134b is hinged to the third web panel 132b by a fold line 133b.

[0110] The third top closure flap 134b is hingedly connected to the second top closure flap 138b / 140b by a third gusset panel 136b. The third top closure flap 134b is hingedly connected to the third gusset panel 136b by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 135b. The third gusset panel 136b is hingedly connected to the second top closure flap 138b / 140b by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 137b.

[0111] The blank 110 includes a corner fold arrangement at a third corner of the top panel 118 adjacent the third gusset panel 136b, the corner fold arrangement being described in more detail below.

[0112] The fourth top end closure flap 144b is joined to the second upper panel 120 by a fourth web panel 146b. The fourth web panel 146b is hinged to the second upper panel 120 by a fold line 147b. The fourth top end closure flap 144b is hinged to the fourth web panel 146b by a fold line 149b.

[0113] The fourth top closure flap 144b is hingedly connected to the second top closure flap 138b / 140b by a fourth gusset panel 142b. The fourth top closure flap 144b is hingedly connected to the fourth gusset panel 142b by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 145b. The fourth gusset panel 142b is hingedly connected to the second top closure flap 138b / 140b by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 143b.

[0114] Web panels 132a, 132b, 146a, 146b are optional and may be omitted; in such an embodiment, fold lines 131a, 131b, 147a, 147b are omitted. First top closure flap 134a, second top closure flap 144a, third top closure flap 134b, and fourth top closure flap 144b are hinged directly to a respective one of first upper panel 116 and second upper panel 120.

[0115] The blank 110 includes a fourth corner fold arrangement (best shown in FIG. 3B) at the fourth corner of the top panel 118 adjacent the fourth gusset panel 142b, each corner fold arrangement being substantially identical in construction and described with reference to the enlarged view of the fourth corner arrangement shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 3B.

[0116] The fourth corner fold arrangement includes a tear line 170 in the form of a slit that extends across or intersects fold line 149b between the fourth top end closure flap 144b and the fourth web panel 146b, fold line 149b also referred to herein as fourth fold line 149b.

[0117] A cut line 170 extends from the fold line 119 between the top panel 118 and the second side panel 120 , the fold line 119 also being referred to herein as the second fold line 119 .

[0118] The cut line 170 extends between the second top closure flap 138b / 140b and the fourth gusset panel 142b toward the fold line 143b. The cut line 170 may extend up to the fold line 143b. The cut line 170 extends beyond or through the fold line 143b to extend into the second top closure flap 138b / 140b. The fold line 143b is also referred to herein as the third fold line 143b.

[0119] The cut line 170 extends across or through the fold line 145b between the fourth gusset panel 142b and the fourth top end closure flap 144b, which fold line is also referred to herein as the fifth fold line 145b.

[0120] The fold line 139b between the top panel 118 and the second top closure flap 138b / 140b extends toward the cut line 170. The fold line 139b is also referred to herein as the first fold line 139b.

[0121] The first fold 139b and the second fold 119 define an imaginary intersection or point V.

[0122] Cut lines 170 can be considered to intersect or terminate with each of first fold line 139b, second fold line 119, third fold line 143b, fourth fold line 149b and fifth fold line 145b.

[0123] In the illustrated embodiment, the cutting line 170 is non-linear and may be curved. In other embodiments, the cutting line 170 may be defined by two or more linear sections that are divergently arranged with respect to one another. In still other embodiments, the cutting line 170 may be linear. In embodiments in which the cutting line 170 is linear, the cutting line 170 may be divergently arranged with respect to at least the second fold line 119 and / or the third fold line 143b.

[0124] A cut line 170 extends between the second fold line 119 and the third fold line 143b.

[0125] The cut line 170 bypasses an imaginary intersection or point V, such that the imaginary intersection V is located on one side of the cut line 170. The imaginary intersection V is located on a first side of the cut line 170, and the fourth top end closure flap 144b and the fourth gusset panel 142b are located on a second, opposing side of the cut line 170. The imaginary intersection V may be spaced apart from the fourth top end closure flap 144b and the fourth gusset panel 142b.

[0126] The fourth fold 149b may intersect or pass through the imaginary intersection point V, and may intersect or merge with the first fold 139b. The imaginary extensions N4, N3 of the third fold 143 and the fifth fold 145b may intersect or pass through the imaginary intersection point V.

[0127] The cut line 170 intersects the fourth fold line 149b at a first intersection point P2 that is located closer to the fourth top end closure flap 144b and / or the fourth gusset panel 142b than the imaginary intersection point V of the first fold line 139b and the second fold line 119.

[0128] Optionally, the first end closure structure includes a third lower end closure flap 126b hinged to the first lower panel 114 by a third lower web panel 130b. The third lower end closure flap 126b is hinged to the third lower web panel 130b by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 125b. The third lower web panel 130b is hinged to the first lower panel 114 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 129b.

[0129] Optionally, the fourth lower end closure flap 150b is hinged to the second lower panel 122 by a fourth lower web panel 148b. The fourth lower end closure flap 150b is hinged to the fourth lower web panel 148b by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 153b. The fourth lower web panel 148b is hinged to the second lower panel 122 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 151b.

[0130] Optionally, the second bottom end closure flap 128b is hinged to the first base panel 112 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 127b. The third lower end closure flap 126b, the fourth lower end closure flap 150b, and the second bottom end closure flap 128b are arranged to partially close a lower region of the open end of the tubular structure.

[0131] The blank 110 includes an optional carrying handle structure H. The handle structure H includes a pair of foldable tabs 160a, 160b. The tabs 160a, 160b are spaced apart from one another. The tabs 160a, 160b are hinged to the top panel 118 by fold lines 161a, 161b and are partially defined by cuts or tear lines 163a, 163b. Each cut line 163a, 163b may extend through one or both of the first upper panel 116 and the second upper panel 120. The first tab 160a is hinged to the top panel 118 opposite the second tab 160b.

[0132] 4 and 5, the carton 190 may be formed in a linear machine by a series of successive folding operations, whereby the carton 190 does not need to be rotated or reversed to complete its construction. The folding process is not limited to that described below and may be modified depending on specific manufacturing requirements.

[0133] A group of articles B is assembled, in a preferred embodiment, six articles B arranged in a 3x2 array. The top panel 118 of the blank 110 is placed over the group of articles B to provide the top wall 118 of the carton 190.

[0134] The first side wall 114 / 116 and the second side wall 120 / 122 are folded around opposite sides of the group of articles B, and the second base panel 124 is folded about fold line 123 so as to be positioned adjacent to the base of the group of articles B. The first base panel 112 is then folded about fold line 113 so as to be in at least a partial overlapping relationship with the second base panel 124. The first base panel 112 and the second base panel 124 are secured to one another. Each male tab M is displaced inwardly from the plane of the first base panel 112. In doing so, each female tab F is displaced inwardly to create a corresponding opening in the second base panel 124. The male tab M is received in each of the openings to lock the first base panel 112 and the second base panel 124 together. In this manner, a tubular structure is formed around the group of articles B.

[0135] In some embodiments, blank 110 may be formed into a tubular structure, after which Item B is loaded through at least one open end thereof.

[0136] The first and second end closure structures are folded around the open end of the tubular structure, and the folding sequence for each of the first and second end closure structures is substantially the same and will be described in more detail with reference to only the first end closure structure.

[0137] The first and second upper web panels 132a, 146a and the first and second upper end closure flaps 134a, 144a are folded about fold lines 131a, 133a, 147a, 149a to partially close the first open end of the tubular structure.

[0138] The first gusset panel 136a and the second gusset panel 142a are at least partially folded in response to folding the first upper end closure flap 134a and the second upper end closure flap 144a, and the first top end closure panel 138a / 140a is at least partially folded in response to folding the first gusset panel 136a and the second gusset panel 142a.

[0139] The first gusset panel 136a and the second gusset panel 142a are folded between respective ones of the first upper end closure flap 134a and the second upper end closure flap 144a which are coupled with the first top end closure panel 138a / 140a.

[0140] The first top end closure panel 138a / 140a is folded about fold line 139a to bring the first upper end closure flap 134a and the second upper end closure flap 144a into a facing relationship with the first gusset panel 136a and the second gusset panel 142a.

[0141] The second or lower portion 140a of the first top closure panel 138a / 140a is folded outwardly relative to the first or upper portion 138a of the first top closure panel 138a / 140a by folding about crease line 141a.

[0142] Glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to each of the first and second top end closure flaps 134a, 144a, 144b, 144c, 144d, 144e, 144f ...

[0143] The second portion 140a of the first top end closure panel 138a / 140a is unfolded relative to the first portion 138a of the first top end closure panel 138a / 140a by folding about fold line 141a so as to bring the second portion 140a of the first top end closure panel 138a / 140a into a face-contacting relationship with the first upper end closure flap 134a and the second upper end closure flap 144a.

[0144] The first top end closure panel 138a / 140a is secured to the first upper end closure flap 134a and the second upper end closure flap 144a.

[0145] The first and second lower web panels 130a, 148a, and the first and second lower end closure flaps 126a, 150a are folded about fold lines 125a, 129a, 151a, 153a, respectively.

[0146] In some embodiments, the first and second lower end closure flaps 126a, 150a may be dimensioned to be disposed in an at least partially overlapping arrangement. The first and second lower end closure flaps 126a, 150a may be secured to each other. Glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to one of the first and second lower end closure flaps 126a, 150a to secure them together.

[0147] Glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to each of first and second lower end closure flaps 126a, 150a, 128 ...

[0148] The bottom end closure flap 128a is folded about fold line 127a into a face-contacting relationship with the first lower end closure flap 126a and the second lower end closure flap 150a.

[0149] The bottom end closure flap 128a is secured to the first lower end closure flap 126a and the second lower end closure flap 150a.

[0150] 6-8, an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In the third illustrated embodiment, like numbers are used to designate like parts, with the prefix "200" added where possible to indicate that these features belong to the third embodiment. The third embodiment shares many common features with the embodiment of Figures 3-5, and therefore only the differences from the embodiment shown in Figures 3-4 will be described in more detail.

[0151] 3 shows a blank 210 for forming a carrier, comprising a plurality of main panels 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, and 224 for forming a tubular structure. The plurality of main panels 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, and 224 comprises a first base panel 212, a first lower panel 214, a first upper panel 216, a top panel 218, a second upper panel 220, a second lower panel 222, and a second base panel 224. The plurality of panels 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, and 224 may be arranged in a linear series hingedly connected to one another by corresponding fold lines 213, 215, 217, 219, 221, and 223.

[0152] The blank 210 includes at least one end closure structure for at least partially closing an end of a tubular structure defined by the plurality of panels 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224.

[0153] In the illustrated embodiment, end closure structures are provided to partially close each end of the tubular structure.

[0154] Each end closure structure may be arranged to partially close an end of the tubular structure so as to provide or define a display window for display of one or more items B disposed adjacent thereto. Each end closure structure comprises two corner fold arrangements, the end closure structures being substantially identical in construction and will be described in more detail by reference to the second end closure structure.

[0155] The blank 210 includes a second end closure structure including a plurality of end closure panels 226b, 228b, 230b, 232b, 234b, 236b, 238b, 240b, 242b, 244b, 246b, 248b, and 250b.

[0156] The second end closure structure includes a second top closure flap 238b / 240b hinged at its second end to the top panel 218 by fold line 239b. The second top closure flap 238b / 240b includes an upper portion 238b hinged to a lower portion 240b by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 241b.

[0157] The third top end closure flap 234b is joined to the first upper panel 216 by a third web panel 232b. The third web panel 232b is hinged to the first upper panel 216 by a fold line 231b. The third top end closure flap 234b is hinged to the third web panel 232b by a fold line 233b.

[0158] The third top closure flap 234b is hingedly connected to the second top closure flap 238b / 240b by a third gusset panel 236b. The third top closure flap 234b is hingedly connected to the third gusset panel 236b by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 235b. The third gusset panel 236b is hingedly connected to the second top closure flap 238b / 240b by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 237b.

[0159] The blank 210 includes a corner fold arrangement at the third corner of the top panel 218 adjacent the third gusset panel 236b, and the corner fold arrangement provided on the blank 210 is substantially identical in construction and will be described in more detail with reference to the corner fold arrangement located at the fourth corner of the top panel 218.

[0160] The fourth top end closure flap 244b is joined to the second upper panel 220 by a fourth web panel 246b. The fourth web panel 246b is hinged to the second upper panel 220 by a fold line 247b. The fourth top end closure flap 244b is hinged to the fourth web panel 246b by a fold line 249b.

[0161] The fourth top closure flap 244b is hingedly connected to the second top closure flap 238b / 240b by a fourth gusset panel 242b. The fourth top closure flap 244b is hingedly connected to the fourth gusset panel 242b by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 245b. The fourth gusset panel 242b is hingedly connected to the second top closure flap 238b / 240b by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 243b.

[0162] Web panels 232a, 232b, 246a, 246b are optional and may be omitted; in such an embodiment, fold lines 231a, 231b, 247a, 247b are omitted. First top closure flap 234a, second top closure flap 234b, third top closure flap 244a, and fourth top closure flap 244b are hinged directly to a respective one of first upper panel 216 and second upper panel 220.

[0163] The blank 210 includes a fourth corner fold arrangement (best seen in FIG. 7B) at the fourth corner of the top panel 218 adjacent the fourth gusset panel 242b.

[0164] The fourth corner fold arrangement includes a cut line 270 in the form of a slit that extends across or intersects with fold line 249b between top panel 218 and second side panel 220, which fold line is also referred to herein as second fold line 219.

[0165] A cut line 270 extends from the fold line 249b between the fourth web panel 246b and the fourth top end closure flap 244b, the fold line 249b also being referred to herein as the fourth fold line 249b.

[0166] The cut line 270 extends toward the fold line 239b between the top panel 218 and the second top closure flap 238b / 240b. The cut line 270 may extend to the fold line 239b between the top panel 218 and the second top closure flap 238b / 240b. The cut line 270 extends over or through the fold line 239b between the top panel 218 and the second top closure flap 238b / 240b so as to extend into the top panel 218. The fold line 239b is also referred to herein as the first fold line 239b.

[0167] The cut line 270 extends across or through the fold line 243b between the second top closure flap 238b / 240b and the fourth gusset panel 242b, which fold line is also referred to herein as the third fold line 243b.

[0168] The cut line 270 extends across or through the fold line 245b between the fourth top end closure flap 244b and the fourth gusset panel 242b, which fold line is also referred to herein as the fifth fold line 245b.

[0169] Cut lines 270 can be considered to intersect or terminate with each of first fold line 239b, second fold line 219, third fold line 243b, fourth fold line 249b and fifth fold line 245b.

[0170] In the illustrated embodiment, the cutting line 270 is non-linear and may be curved. In other embodiments, the cutting line 270 may be defined by two or more linear sections that are divergently positioned relative to one another. In still other embodiments, the cutting line 270 may be linear.

[0171] A cut line 270 extends between the first fold line 239b and the fourth fold line 249b.

[0172] The cut line 270 circumvents an imaginary intersection or point V between an imaginary extension of the first fold line 239b and the second fold line 219, such that the imaginary intersection V is located on one side of the cut line 270. The imaginary intersection V is located on a first side of the cut line 270, and the fourth top end closure flap 244b and the fourth gusset panel 242b are located on a second, opposing side of the cut line 270. The imaginary intersection V may be spaced apart from the fourth top end closure flap 244b and the fourth gusset panel 242b.

[0173] The fourth fold 249b, or an imaginary extension thereof, may intersect or pass through the imaginary intersection point V. The imaginary extensions N4, N3 of the third fold 243b and the fifth fold 245b may intersect or pass through the imaginary intersection point V.

[0174] The cut line 270 intersects the third fold line 243b at a first intersection point P. The first intersection point P is located closer to the fourth top end closure flap 244b and / or the fourth gusset panel 242b than the imaginary intersection point V of the first fold line 239b and the second fold line 219.

[0175] 9, 13A, and 13B, an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In the fourth illustrated embodiment, like numbers are used to designate like parts, where possible, with the addition of the prefix "300" to indicate that these features belong to the fourth embodiment.

[0176] 9 shows a blank 310 for forming a carrier, the blank 310 including a plurality of main panels 312, 314, 316, 318, 320, 322, 324 for forming a tubular structure. The plurality of main panels 312, 314, 316, 318, 320, 322, 324 includes a first base panel 312, a first side panel 314, a first top corner panel 316, a top panel 318, a second top corner panel 320, a second side panel 322, and a second base panel 324. The plurality of main panels 312, 314, 316, 318, 320, 322, 324 may be arranged in a linear series hingedly connected to one another by corresponding fold lines 313, 315, 317, 319, 321, 323.

[0177] The first upper corner panel 316 and the second upper corner panel 320, together with the top panel 318, can be considered to form part of the top wall of the carrier 390. Alternatively, the first upper corner panel 316 and the second upper corner panel 320 can be considered to form the top of one of the first side panel 314 and the second side panel 322, respectively.

[0178] In some embodiments, the first upper corner panel 316 and the second upper corner panel 320 may be omitted, and in such embodiments, the fold lines 315, 321 may be omitted.

[0179] The blank 310 may include complementary locking features for securing the second base panel 324 to the first base panel 312. The second base panel 324 may include at least one first portion M of the complementary locking feature. The first base panel 312 may include at least one second portion F of the complementary locking feature.

[0180] The first base panel 312 and the second base panel 324 may include at least one first opening A1. In the illustrated embodiment, the first base panel 312 includes one first opening A1, and the second base panel 324 includes one first opening A1. The first base panel 312 and the second base panel 324 may include at least one second opening A2. In the illustrated embodiment, the first base panel 312 includes one second opening A2, and the second base panel 324 includes one second opening A2. The first opening A1 and the second opening A2 may be utilized to facilitate construction of the carton 390.

[0181] The blank 310 includes an optional carrying handle structure H. The handle structure H includes a single foldable tab 360. The tab 360 is hinged to the top panel 318 by a fold line 361 and is partially defined by a cut or tear line 363.

[0182] The blank 310 includes at least one end closure structure for at least partially closing an end of a tubular structure defined by the plurality of panels 312, 314, 316, 318, 320, 322, 324. The blank 310 includes a first end closure structure including a plurality of end closure panels 326a, 328a, 330a, 332a, 334a, 336a, 338a, 340a, 342a, 344a, 346a.

[0183] The first end closure structure includes a first top end closure flap 336a hingedly connected to the top panel 318 by a fold line 339a.

[0184] The first bottom end closure flap 336a is hinged to the first base panel 312 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 325a.

[0185] The first gusset panel 328a is hingedly connected to the first bottom end closure flap 336a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 327a.

[0186] The first anchor panel 330a is hingedly connected to the first gusset panel 328a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 329a. The first anchor panel 330a is hingedly connected to the first side panel 314 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 331a.

[0187] The first corner end closure flap 334a is hingedly connected to the first top end closure flap 336a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 337a. The first corner end closure flap 334a is hingedly connected to the second gusset panel 332a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 335a. The second gusset panel 332a is hingedly connected to the first anchor panel 330a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 333a.

[0188] The second corner end closure flap 338a is hingedly connected to the first top end closure flap 336a by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 341a. The second corner end closure flap 338a is hingedly connected to the third gusset panel 340a by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 343a.

[0189] The second gusset panel 332a is hingedly connected to the second anchor panel 342a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 345a, and the second anchor panel 342a is hingedly connected to the second side panel 322 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 347a.

[0190] The fourth gusset panel 344a is hingedly connected to the second anchor panel 342a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 349a.

[0191] The second bottom end closure flap 346a is hingedly connected to the second base panel 324 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 353a. The second bottom end closure flap 346a is hingedly connected to the fourth gusset panel 344a by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 351a.

[0192] The blank 310 includes a second end closure structure including a plurality of end closure panels 326b, 328b, 330b, 332b, 334b, 336b, 338b, 340b, 342b, 344b, and 346b. The second end closure structure includes a second top end closure flap 336b hingedly connected to the top panel 318 by a fold line 339b.

[0193] The third bottom end closure flap 336b is hingedly connected to the first base panel 312 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 325b.

[0194] The fifth gusset panel 328b is hingedly connected to the third bottom end closure flap 336b by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 327b.

[0195] The first anchor panel 330b is hingedly connected to the fifth gusset panel 328b by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 329b. The first anchor panel 330b is hingedly connected to the first side panel 314 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 331b.

[0196] The third corner end closure flap 334b ​​is hingedly connected to the second top end closure flap 336b by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 337b. The third corner end closure flap 334b ​​is hingedly connected to the sixth gusset panel 332b by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 335b. The sixth gusset panel 332b is hingedly connected to the first anchor panel 330b by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 333b.

[0197] The fourth corner end closure flap 338b is hingedly connected to the second top end closure flap 336b by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 341b. The fourth corner end closure flap 338b is hingedly connected to the seventh gusset panel 340b by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 343b. The seventh gusset panel 332b is hingedly connected to the fourth anchor panel 342b by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 345b. The fourth anchor panel 342b is hingedly connected to the second side panel 322 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 347b.

[0198] The eighth gusset panel 344b is hingedly connected to the fourth anchor panel 342b by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 349b.

[0199] The fourth bottom end closure flap 346b is hingedly connected to the second base panel 324 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 353b. The fourth bottom end closure flap 346b is hingedly connected to the eighth gusset panel 344b by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 351b.

[0200] The blank 310 includes four corner fold arrangements, with a first pair of corner fold arrangements located at the corners of the first base panel 312 adjacent to the first side panel 314. A second pair of corner fold arrangements located at the corners of the second base panel 324 adjacent to the second side panel 322. The corner fold arrangements are substantially the same and will be described with reference to the enlarged view of one of the corner arrangements between the second base panel 324 and the second side panel 322 shown in FIG.

[0201] The corner fold arrangement includes a tear line 370 in the form of a cut that extends across or intersects with the fold line 323 between the second base panel 324 and the second side panel 322, which fold line is also referred to herein as the second fold line 323.

[0202] A cut line 370 extends from fold line 347b between second side panel 322 and fourth anchor panel 342b, fold line 347b also referred to herein as fourth fold line 347b.

[0203] The cut line 370 extends toward the fold line 353b between the second base panel 324 and the fourth bottom end closure flap 346b. The cut line 370 may extend to the fold line 353b between the second base panel 324 and the fourth bottom end closure flap 346b. The cut line 370 extends over or through the fold line 353b between the second base panel 324 and the fourth bottom end closure flap 346b to extend into the second base panel 324. The fold line 353b is also referred to herein as the first fold line 353b.

[0204] The cut line 370 extends across or through the fold line 351b between the fourth bottom end closure flap 346b and the eighth gusset panel 344b, which fold line is also referred to herein as the third fold line 351b.

[0205] Severance line 370 extends across or through fold line 349b between fourth anchor panel 342b and eighth gusset panel 344b, which fold line is also referred to herein as fifth fold line 349b.

[0206] Cut lines 370 can be considered to intersect or terminate with each of first fold line 353b, second fold line 323, third fold line 351b, fourth fold line 347b and fifth fold line 349b.

[0207] In the illustrated embodiment, the cutting line 370 is non-linear and may be curved. In other embodiments, the cutting line 370 may be defined by two or more linear sections that are divergently positioned relative to one another. In still other embodiments, the cutting line 370 may be linear.

[0208] A cut line 370 extends between the first fold line 353b and the fourth fold line 347b.

[0209] The cut line 370 circumvents an imaginary intersection or point V between an imaginary extension of the first fold line 353b and the second fold line 323, such that the imaginary intersection point V is located on one side of the cut line 370. The imaginary intersection point V is located on a first side of the cut line 370, and the fourth anchor panel 342b and the eighth gusset panel 344b are located on a second, opposing side of the cut line 370. The imaginary intersection point V may be spaced apart from the fourth anchor panel 342b and from the eighth gusset panel 344b.

[0210] The third fold 351b, or an imaginary extension thereof, may intersect with or pass through the imaginary intersection point V. The imaginary extensions of the fourth fold 347b and the fifth fold 349b may intersect with or pass through the imaginary intersection point V.

[0211] The cutting line 370 intersects the third fold line 351b at a first intersection point P. The first intersection point P is located closer to the eighth gusset panel 344b than the imaginary intersection point V of the first fold line 353b and the second fold line 323.

[0212] 10, 10B, and 14, an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In the fifth illustrated embodiment, like numbers are used to designate like parts, where possible, with the addition of the prefix "400" to indicate that these features belong to the fifth embodiment.

[0213] 10 shows a blank 410 for forming a carrier, the blank 410 including a plurality of main panels 412, 414, 416, 418, 420, 422, 424, 426, 428 for forming a tubular structure. The plurality of main panels 412, 414, 416, 418, 420, 422, 424, 426, 428 includes a first base panel 412, a first lower corner panel 414, a first side panel 416, a first upper corner panel 418, a top panel 420, a second upper corner panel 422, a second side panel 424, a second lower corner panel 426, and a second base panel 428. A plurality of main panels 412, 414, 416, 418, 420, 422, 424, 426, 428 may be arranged in a linear series hinged to one another by corresponding fold lines 413, 415, 417, 419, 421, 423, 425, 427.

[0214] The first upper corner panel 418 and the second upper corner panel 422, together with the top panel 420, can be considered to form part of the top wall of the carrier 490. Alternatively, the first upper corner panel 418 and the second upper corner panel 422 can be considered to form the top of one of the first side panel 416 and the second side panel 424, respectively.

[0215] The first and second lower corner panels 414, 426, together with the first and second base panels 412, 428, can be considered to form part of the bottom wall of the carrier 490. Alternatively, the first and second lower corner panels 414, 426 can be considered to form the bottom of one of the first and second side panels 416, 424, respectively.

[0216] In some embodiments, the first upper corner panel 418 and the second upper corner panel 422 may be omitted, and in such embodiments, the fold lines 417, 423 may be omitted. In some embodiments, the first lower corner panel 414 and the second lower corner panel 426 may be omitted, and in such embodiments, the fold lines 415, 425 may be omitted.

[0217] The blank 410 may include complementary locking features for securing the second base panel 428 to the first base panel 412. The first base panel 412 may include at least one first portion M of the complementary locking feature. The second base panel 428 may include at least one second portion F of the complementary locking feature.

[0218] The first base panel 412 and the second base panel 428 may include at least one first opening A1. In the illustrated embodiment, the first base panel 412 includes one first opening A1, and the second base panel 428 includes one first opening A1. The first base panel 412 and the second base panel 428 may include at least one second opening A2. In the illustrated embodiment, the first base panel 412 includes one second opening A2, and the second base panel 428 includes one second opening A2. The first opening A1 and the second opening A2 may be utilized to facilitate construction of the carton 490.

[0219] The blank 410 includes an optional carrying handle structure H. The handle structure H includes a single foldable tab 460. The tab 460 is hinged to the top panel 420 by a fold line 461 and is partially defined by a cut or tear line 463.

[0220] The blank 410 includes at least one end closure structure for at least partially closing an end of a tubular structure defined by the plurality of panels 412, 414, 416, 418, 420, 422, 424, 426, 428.

[0221] The blank 410 includes a first end closure structure including a plurality of end closure panels 430a, 432a, 434a, 436a, 438a, 440a, 442a, 444a, 446a, and 448a. The first end closure structure includes a first bottom end closure flap 430a hingedly connected to the first base panel 412 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 429a.

[0222] The first gusset panel 432a is hingedly connected to the first bottom end closure flap 430a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 431a.

[0223] The first anchor panel 434a is hingedly connected to the first gusset panel 432a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 433a. The first anchor panel 434a is hingedly connected to the first side panel 416 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 435a.

[0224] The second gusset panel 436a is hingedly connected to the first anchor panel 434a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 437a.

[0225] The first top closure flap 438a is hingedly connected to the second gusset panel 436a by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 439a. The first top closure flap 438a is hingedly connected to the top panel 420 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 441a. The first end closure structure includes a second bottom end closure flap 448a hingedly connected to the second base panel 428 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 455a.

[0226] The third gusset panel 446a is hingedly connected to the second bottom end closure flap 448a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 453a.

[0227] The second anchor panel 444a is hingedly connected to the third gusset panel 446a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 451a.

[0228] The fourth gusset panel 442a is hingedly connected to the second anchor panel 444a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 447a.

[0229] The second anchor panel 444a is hingedly connected to the second side panel 424 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 449a.

[0230] The second top closure flap 440a is hingedly connected to the fourth gusset panel 442a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 445a. The second top closure flap 440a is hingedly connected to the top panel 420 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 443a.

[0231] The blank 410 includes a second end closure structure including a plurality of end closure panels 430b, 432b, 434b, 436b, 438b, 440b, 442b, 444b, 446b, and 448b. The second end closure structure includes a third bottom end closure flap 430b hingedly connected to the first base panel 412 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 429b.

[0232] The fifth gusset panel 432b is hingedly connected to the third bottom end closure flap 430b by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 431b.

[0233] The third anchor panel 434b is hingedly connected to the fifth gusset panel 432b by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 433b. The third anchor panel 434b is hingedly connected to the first side panel 416 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 435b.

[0234] The sixth gusset panel 436b is hingedly connected to the third anchor panel 434b by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 437b.

[0235] The third top end closure flap 438b is hingedly connected to the sixth gusset panel 436b by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 439b. The third top end closure flap 438b is hingedly connected to the top panel 420 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 441b. The first end closure structure includes a fourth bottom end closure flap 448b hingedly connected to the second base panel 428 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 455b.

[0236] The seventh gusset panel 446b is hingedly connected to the fourth bottom end closure flap 448b by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 453b.

[0237] The fourth anchor panel 444b is hingedly connected to the seventh gusset panel 446b by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 451b. The fourth anchor panel 444b is hingedly connected to the second side panel 424 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 449b.

[0238] The eighth gusset panel 442b is hingedly connected to the fourth anchor panel 444b by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 447b.

[0239] The fourth top closure flap 440b is hingedly connected to the eighth gusset panel 442b by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 445b. The fourth top closure flap 440b is hingedly connected to the top panel 420 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 443b.

[0240] The blank 410 includes eight corner fold arrangements, with a first pair of corner fold arrangements located at the corners of the first base panel 412 adjacent to the first side panel 416 or the first corner panel 414, if present. A second pair of corner fold arrangements located at the corners of the second base panel 428 adjacent to the second side panel 424 or the fourth corner panel 426, if present.

[0241] The third pair of corner fold arrangements, if present, are located at corners of the top panel 420 adjacent to the first side panel 416 or the second corner panel 418. The fourth pair of corner fold arrangements, if present, are located at corners of the top panel 420 adjacent to the second side panel 424 or the third corner panel 422.

[0242] The corner fold arrangements are substantially the same and will be described with reference to an enlarged view of one of the corner arrangements between the top panel 420, the second side panel 424 and the third corner panel 422 shown in FIG. 10B.

[0243] The corner fold arrangement includes a cut line 470 in the form of a slit that extends across or intersects with fold line 421 between the third corner panel 422 and the top panel 420, which fold line is also referred to herein as second fold line 421.

[0244] A cut line 470 extends from fold line 449b between the second side panel 424 and the fourth anchor panel 444b, fold line 449b also referred to herein as fourth fold line 449b.

[0245] In the illustrated embodiment, the fold line 423 between the third corner panel 422 and the second side panel 424 intersects or terminates at the point of contact between the cut line 470 and the fold line 449b. In some embodiments, the fold line 423 may not contact the intersection between the cut line 470 and the fold line 449b, but may be aligned such that its imaginary straight extension passes through said intersection point.

[0246] The cut line 470 extends toward the fold line 443b between the top panel 420 and the fourth top closure flap 440b. The cut line 470 may extend to the fold line 443b between the top panel 420 and the fourth top closure flap 440b. The cut line 470 extends across or through the fold line 443b between the top panel 420 and the fourth top closure flap 440b so as to extend into the fourth top closure flap 440b. The fold line 443b is also referred to herein as the first fold line 443b.

[0247] The cut line 470 extends across or through the fold line 445b between the fourth top closure flap 440b and the eighth gusset panel 442b, which fold line is also referred to herein as the third fold line 445b.

[0248] The cut line 470 extends across or through the fold line 447b between the fourth anchor panel 444b and the eighth gusset panel 442b, which fold line is also referred to herein as the fifth fold line 447b.

[0249] Cut lines 470 can be considered to intersect or terminate with each of first fold line 443b, second fold line 421, third fold line 445b, fourth fold line 449b and fifth fold line 447b.

[0250] In the illustrated embodiment, the cutting line 470 is non-linear and may be curved. In other embodiments, the cutting line 470 may be defined by two or more linear sections that are divergently positioned relative to one another. In still other embodiments, the cutting line 470 may be linear.

[0251] A cut line 470 extends between the first fold line 443b and the fourth fold line 449b.

[0252] The cut line 470 circumvents an imaginary intersection or point V between an imaginary extension N2 of the first fold line 443b and the second fold line 421, such that the imaginary intersection V is located on one side of the cut line 470. The imaginary intersection V is located on a first side of the cut line 470, and the fourth anchor panel 444b and the eighth gusset panel 442b are located on a second, opposing side of the cut line 470. The imaginary intersection V may be spaced apart from the fourth anchor panel 444b and from the eighth gusset panel 442b.

[0253] Cutting line 470 appears concave when viewed from the second side, whereas cutting lines 70, 170, 270, 370 of the previous embodiments appear convex when viewed from the second side.

[0254] The third fold 445b, or an imaginary extension thereof, may intersect with or pass through the imaginary intersection point V. The imaginary extensions of the fourth fold 449b and the fifth fold 447b may intersect with or pass through the imaginary intersection point V.

[0255] The cut line 470 intersects the third fold line 445b at a first intersection point P. The first intersection point P is located closer to the eighth gusset panel 442b than the imaginary intersection point V of the first fold line 443b and the second fold line 421.

[0256] Referring now to Figure 10C, an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In the sixth illustrated embodiment, like numbers are used to designate like parts, but with the addition of "500" where possible to indicate that these features belong to the sixth embodiment. The sixth embodiment shares many common features with the embodiments of Figures 10, 10B, and 14, and therefore only the differences from the embodiments shown in Figures 10, 10B, and 14 will be described in more detail.

[0257] FIG. 10C illustrates a portion of blank 510. Blank 510 includes at least one corner fold arrangement substantially similar to the corner fold arrangement of the embodiment of FIG. 10. In the embodiment of FIG. 10C, corner fold arrangement includes an additional fold line 557b. Fold line 557b may be located in top panel 520 and extend substantially perpendicular to second fold line 521. Fold line 557b may extend substantially collinear with fourth fold line 549b. Fold line 557b may extend toward or intersect second fold line 521 at an imaginary intersection point V defined by an imaginary extension N2 of first fold line 543b and second fold line 521.

[0258] Referring now to Figure 17, an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In the tenth illustrated embodiment, like numbers are used to designate like parts, but with the addition of "800" where possible to indicate that these features belong to the tenth embodiment. The tenth embodiment shares many common features with the embodiments of Figures 10, 10B, and 14, and therefore only the differences from the embodiments shown in Figures 10, 10B, and 14 will be described in more detail.

[0259] Figure 17 shows a portion of a blank 810. The blank 810 includes at least one corner fold arrangement substantially similar to the corner fold arrangement of the embodiment of Figure 10. In the embodiment of Figure 17, the corner fold arrangement includes a non-linear cut line 870. The cut line 870 separates the top panel 820 from the fourth top closure flap 840b and separates the third corner panel 822 from the eighth gusset panel 842b and the fourth anchor panel 844b.

[0260] The cutting line 870 extends from the fold line 849b (also referred to herein as the fourth fold line 849b) between the second side panel 824 and the fourth anchor panel 844b and has a first straight portion 870a oriented obliquely relative to the fourth fold line 849b.

[0261] The cut line 870 includes a first linear portion 870a and a second linear portion 870b that are contiguous with the first linear portion 870a. The second portion 870b is divergently disposed relative to the first linear portion 870a to define a non-linear cut. The second portion 870b may be oriented substantially perpendicular to the third fold line 845b.

[0262] The second portion 870 b extends across or intersects the fold line 821 between the third corner panel 822 and the top panel 820 .

[0263] The second portion 870b extends across or intersects the third fold line 845b between the fourth top closure flap 840b and the eighth gusset panel 842b.

[0264] An imaginary intersection point V defined by an imaginary extension N2 of the first fold line 843b and the second fold line 821 is located on a first side of the second portion 870b of the cutting line 870. The imaginary intersection point V is spaced apart from the second portion 870b of the cutting line 870.

[0265] A second portion 870b of the cut line 870 intersects or crosses the third fold line 845b at an intersection point P. The intersection point P is spaced from the imaginary intersection point V.

[0266] The second portion 870b may terminate or intersect the first fold line 843b.

[0267] In the embodiment of FIG. 17, the fold line 823 between the third corner panel 822 and the second side panel 824 is positioned closer to the second fold line 821 than the intersection between the first portion 870a and the fourth fold line 849b.

[0268] 11, 15A, and 15B, an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In the seventh illustrated embodiment, like numbers are used to designate like parts, where possible, with the addition of "600" to indicate that these features belong to the seventh embodiment.

[0269] 11 shows a blank 610 for forming a carrier, the blank 610 including a plurality of main panels 612, 614, 616, 618, 620, 622, 624 for forming a tubular structure. The plurality of main panels 612, 614, 616, 618, 620, 622, 624 includes a first base panel 612, a first lower corner panel 614, a first side panel 616, a top panel 618, a second side panel 620, a second lower corner panel 622, and a second base panel 624. The plurality of main panels 612, 614, 616, 618, 620, 622, 624 may be arranged in a linear series hingedly connected to one another by corresponding fold lines 613, 615, 617, 619, 621, 623.

[0270] The first and second bottom corner panels 614, 622 can be considered to form part of the bottom wall of the carrier 690 together with the first and second base panels 612, 624. Alternatively, the first and second bottom corner panels 614, 622 can be considered to form the bottom of a respective one of the first and second side panels 616, 620. In some embodiments, the first and second bottom corner panels 614, 622 may be omitted, and in such embodiments, the fold lines 615, 621 may be omitted.

[0271] The blank 610 may include complementary locking features for securing the second base panel 624 to the first base panel 612. The second base panel 624 may include at least one first portion M of the complementary locking feature. The first base panel 612 may include at least one second portion F of the complementary locking feature.

[0272] The blank 610 includes an optional carrying handle structure H. The handle structure H includes a pair of foldable tabs 660a, 660b. The tabs 660a, 660b are spaced apart from one another. The tabs 660a, 660b are hinged to the top panel 618 by fold lines 661a, 661b and are partially defined by cuts or tear lines 663a, 663b. Each cut line 663a, 663b may extend through one or both of the first upper panel 616 and the second upper panel 620. The first tab 660a is hinged to the top panel 618 opposite the second tab 660b.

[0273] The blank 610 includes at least one end closure structure for at least partially closing an end of a tubular structure defined by the plurality of panels 612, 614, 616, 618, 620, 622, 624. The blank 610 includes a first end closure structure including a plurality of end closure panels 626a, 628a, 630a, 632a, 634a.

[0274] The first end closure structure includes a first top end closure flap 630a hinged to the top panel 618 by a fold line 637a.

[0275] The first gusset panel 628a is hingedly connected to the first top closure flap 630a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 629a.

[0276] The first anchor panel 626a is hingedly connected to the first gusset panel 628a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 627a. The first anchor panel 626a is hingedly connected to the first side panel 616 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 625a.

[0277] The second gusset panel 632a is hingedly connected to the first top closure flap 630a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 631a.

[0278] The second anchor panel 634a is hingedly connected to the second gusset panel 632a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 633a. The second anchor panel 634a is hingedly connected to the second side panel 620 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 635a. The blank 610 includes a second end closure structure including a plurality of end closure panels 626b, 628b, 630b, 632b, and 634b.

[0279] The second end closure structure includes a second top end closure flap 630b hinged to the top panel 618 by a fold line 637b.

[0280] The third gusset panel 628b is hingedly connected to the second top closure flap 630b by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 629b.

[0281] The third anchor panel 626b is hingedly connected to the third gusset panel 628b by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 627b. The third anchor panel 626b is hingedly connected to the first side panel 616 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 625b.

[0282] The fourth gusset panel 632b is hingedly connected to the second top closure flap 630b by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 631b.

[0283] The fourth anchor panel 634b is hingedly connected to the fourth gusset panel 632b by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 633b. The fourth anchor panel 634b is hingedly connected to the second side panel 620 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 635b.

[0284] The blank 610 includes four corner fold arrangements at each corner of the top panel 618, which are substantially identical and will be described with reference to the enlarged view of one of the corner arrangements shown in FIG.

[0285] The corner fold arrangement includes a tear line 670 in the form of a cut that extends across or intersects a fold line 619 between the top panel 618 and the second side panel 620, which fold line is also referred to herein as the second fold line 619.

[0286] A cut line 670 extends from fold line 635b between second side panel 620 and fourth anchor panel 634b, fold line 635b also referred to herein as fourth fold line 635b.

[0287] The cut line 670 extends toward the fold line 637b between the top panel 618 and the second top closure flap 630b. The cut line 670 may extend to the fold line 637b between the top panel 618 and the second top closure flap 630b. The cut line 670 extends across or through the fold line 637b between the top panel 618 and the second top closure flap 630b so as to extend into the top panel 618. The fold line 637b is also referred to herein as the first fold line 637b.

[0288] The cut line 670 extends across or through the fold line 631b between the second top closure flap 630b and the fourth gusset panel 632b, which fold line is also referred to herein as the third fold line 631b.

[0289] The cut line 670 extends across or through the fold line 633b between the fourth anchor panel 634b and the fourth gusset panel 632b, which fold line is also referred to herein as the fifth fold line 633b.

[0290] Cut lines 670 can be considered to intersect or terminate with each of first fold line 637b, second fold line 619, third fold line 631b, fourth fold line 635b and fifth fold line 633b.

[0291] In the illustrated embodiment, the cutting line 670 is non-linear and may be curved. In other embodiments, the cutting line 670 may be defined by two or more linear sections that are divergently positioned relative to one another. In still other embodiments, the cutting line 670 may be linear.

[0292] A cut line 670 extends between the first fold line 637b and the fourth fold line 635b.

[0293] The cut line 670 circumvents an imaginary intersection or point V between an imaginary extension of the first fold line 637b and the second fold line 619, such that the imaginary intersection point V is located on one side of the cut line 670. The imaginary intersection point V is located on a first side of the cut line 670, and the fourth anchor panel 634b and the fourth gusset panel 632b are located on a second, opposing side of the cut line 670. The imaginary intersection point V may be spaced apart from the fourth anchor panel 634b and the fourth gusset panel 632b.

[0294] The third fold 631b, or an imaginary extension thereof, may intersect with or pass through the imaginary intersection point V. The imaginary extensions of the fourth fold 635b and the fifth fold 635b may intersect with or pass through the imaginary intersection point V.

[0295] The fifth fold 633b may be interrupted by a "U" shaped cut to define a tab portion that is punched out of the material that would otherwise form the fourth gusset panel 632b. The tab portion is integral with the fourth anchor panel 634b.

[0296] The cut line 670 intersects the third fold line 633b at a first intersection point P. The first intersection point P is located closer to the fourth gusset panel 632b than the imaginary intersection point V of the first fold line 637b and the second fold line 619.

[0297] Referring now to Figure 12, an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In the eighth illustrated embodiment, like numbers are used to designate like parts, but with the addition of "700" where possible to indicate that these features belong to the eighth embodiment. The eighth embodiment shares many common features with the embodiments of Figures 11, 15A, and 15B, and therefore only the differences from the embodiments shown in Figures 11, 15A, and 15B will be described in more detail.

[0298] 12 shows a portion of a blank 710 for forming a carrier, the blank 710 having a plurality of main panels 716, 718, 720 for forming a tubular structure. The plurality of main panels 716, 718, 720 includes a first side panel 716, a top panel 718, and a second side panel 720. The plurality of main panels 716, 718, 720 may be arranged in a linear series hingedly connected to one another by corresponding fold lines 717, 719.

[0299] The blank 710 includes an optional carrying handle structure H. The handle structure H includes a pair of foldable tabs 760a, 760b.

[0300] The blank 710 includes at least one end closure structure for at least partially closing an end of a tubular structure defined by the plurality of panels 716, 718, and 720. The blank 710 includes a first end closure structure including a plurality of end closure panels 726 a, 728 a, 730 a, 732 a, 734 a, 736 a, and 738 a. The first end closure structure includes a first top end closure flap 730 a hingedly connected to the top panel 718 by a fold line 737 a.

[0301] The first web panel 736a is hingedly connected to the first top closure flap 730a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 737a. The first gusset panel 728a is hingedly connected to the first web panel 736a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 729a.

[0302] The first anchor panel 726a is hingedly connected to the first gusset panel 728a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 727a. The first anchor panel 726a is hingedly connected to the first side panel 716 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 725a.

[0303] A second web panel 738a is hingedly connected to the first top closure flap 730a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 739a. A second gusset panel 732a is hingedly connected to the second web panel 738a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 731a.

[0304] The second anchor panel 734a is hingedly connected to the second gusset panel 732a by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 733a. The second anchor panel 734a is hingedly connected to the second side panel 720 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 735a.

[0305] The blank 710 includes a second end closure structure including a plurality of end closure panels 726b, 728b, 730b, 732b, 734b, 736b, and 738b, and includes a second top end closure flap 730b hingedly connected to the top panel 718 by a fold line 737b.

[0306] A third web panel 736b is hingedly connected to the second top closure flap 730b by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 737b. A third gusset panel 728b is hingedly connected to the third web panel 736b by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 729b.

[0307] The third anchor panel 726b is hingedly connected to the third gusset panel 728b by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 727b. The third anchor panel 726b is hingedly connected to the first side panel 716 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 725b.

[0308] A fourth web panel 738b is hingedly connected to the second top closure flap 730b by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 739b. A fourth gusset panel 732b is hingedly connected to the fourth web panel 738b by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 731b.

[0309] The fourth anchor panel 734b is hingedly connected to the fourth gusset panel 732b by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 733b. The fourth anchor panel 734b is hingedly connected to the second side panel 720 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 735b.

[0310] Figure 12 shows a portion of blank 710. Blank 710 includes four corner fold arrangements that are substantially similar to the corner fold arrangements of the embodiment of Figure 11. In the embodiment of Figure 12, each corner fold arrangement includes additional fold lines 757a, 757b, 757c, and 757d. Fold lines 757a, 757b, 757c, and 757d are provided in each of first and second top closure panels 730a and 730b, respectively, and extend divergently relative to third fold lines 729a, 729b, 731a, and 731b. The folds 757a, 757b, 757c, 757d may extend toward an imaginary intersection point V defined by a respective one of the second folds 717, 719 and one of the first folds 737a, 737b (or by an imaginary extension of at least the first folds 737a, 737b).

[0311] The present disclosure provides corner-folded arrangements including a first panel 18, 118, 218, 324, 420, 520, 618, 718, 820, a second panel 32b, 138b, 328b, 346b, 440b, 540b, 630b, 730b, 840b, and a third panel 20, 120, 220, 322, 422 / 424, 522 / 524, 620, 720, 822 / 824. The first panels 18, 118, 218, 324, 420, 520, 618, 718, 820 include corners defined by end edges and side edges. The second panel 32b, 138b, 328b, 346b, 440b, 540b, 630b, 730b, 840b is hinged to the end edge of the first panel along the first fold line 33b, 139b, 239b, 353b, 443b, 543b, 637b, 737b, 843b. The third panel 20, 120, 220, 322, 422 / 424, 522 / 524, 620, 720, 822 / 824 is hinged to the side edge of the first panel along the second fold line 19, 119, 219, 323, 421, 521, 619, 719, 821. The fourth panel 34b, 142b, 242b, 344b, 442b, 542b, 632b, 732b, 842b is hingedly connected to the fifth panel 36b, 144b, 244b, 342b, 444b, 544b, 634b, 734b, 844b. The fourth and fifth panels (referred to herein as a pair of gusset panels) join the second panel to the third panel. The fourth panel (also referred to herein as the gusset panel) is hingedly connected to the second panel 32b, 138b, 328b, 346b, 440b, 540b, 630b, 730b, 840b along the third fold line 35b, 143b, 243b, 351b, 445b, 545b, 631b, 731b, 845b. The fifth panel (also referred to herein as the anchor panel) is hingedly connected to the third panel 20, 120, 220, 322, 422 / 424, 522 / 524, 620, 720, 822 / 824 along the fourth fold line 39b, 149b, 249b, 347b, 449b, 549b, 633b, 733b, 849b.The cut lines 70, 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670, 770, 870 extend between the first and fourth fold lines or between the second and third fold lines. In the unfolded blank form, the cut lines 70, 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670, 770, 870 bypass the imaginary intersection point V of the first and second fold lines, so that the imaginary intersection point V is located to one side of the cut lines 70, 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670, 770, 870, spaced apart from the fourth and fifth panels.

[0312] Advantageously, the corner fold arrangement facilitates folding of the corner structure and provides an aesthetic appearance. The corner fold arrangement maintains the panels in the corner fold arrangement in an overlapping arrangement. The arrangement prevents the creation of large openings in the interior. While the cut lines 70, 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670, 770, 870 may open slightly, such openings are substantially hidden or disguised by one or more protrusions T1, T2 of the panels in the corner fold arrangement.

[0313] The first panel 18, 118, 218, 324, 420, 520, 618, 718, 820 and the third panel 20, 120, 220, 322, 422 / 424, 522 / 524, 620, 720, 822 / 824 may partially define a tubular structure, and the second panel 32b, 138b, 328b, 346b, 440b, 540b, 630b, 730b, 840b may at least partially close the ends of the tubular structure.

[0314] The present disclosure provides cartons 90, 190, 290, 390, 490, 690 for packaging item B. The carton 90, 190, 290, 390, 490, 690 comprises a plurality of panel-forming walls of tubular construction, optionally hingedly connected to one another in a linear series, including a top wall 18, 118, 218, 318, 420, 520, 618, 718, 820, a first side wall 16, 114 / 116, 214 / 216, 314, 416, 616, 716, a base wall 12 / 24, 112 / 124, 212 / 224, 312 / 324, 412 / 428, 612 / 624, and a second side wall 20, 120, 220, 322, 424, 524, 620, 720, 824. The carton 90, 190, 290, 390, 490, 690 may include a carrying handle H defined within at least one of the plurality of panels.

[0315] The plurality of panels defines an interior of the tubular structure for receiving one or more articles. The plurality of panels includes a first panel 18, 118, 218, 324, 420, 520, 618, 718, 820 having corners defined by end edges and side edges. A second panel 32b, 138b, 328b, 346b, 440b, 540b, 630b, 730b, 840b is hingedly connected to an end edge of the first panel 18, 118, 218, 324, 420, 520, 618, 718, 820 along a first fold line 33b, 139b, 239b, 353b, 443b, 543b, 637b, 737b, 843b. The third panel 20, 120, 220, 322, 422 / 424, 522 / 524, 620, 720, 822 / 824 is hingedly connected to the side edge of the first panel 18, 118, 218, 324, 420, 520, 618, 718, 820 along the second fold line 19, 119, 219, 323, 421, 521, 619, 719, 821. The fourth panel 34b, 142b, 242b, 344b, 442b, 542b, 632b, 732b, 842b is hingedly connected to the fifth panel 36b, 144b, 244b, 342b, 444b, 544b, 634b, 734b, 844b. The fourth and fifth panels connect the second panel to the third panel. The fourth and fifth panels are disposed within the interior of the carton 90, 190, 290, 390, 490, 690. The fourth panel 34b, 142b, 242b, 344b, 442b, 542b, 632b, 732b, 842b is hingedly connected to the second panel 32b, 138b, 328b, 346b, 440b, 540b, 630b, 730b, 840b along the third fold line 35b, 143b, 243b, 351b, 445b, 545b, 631b, 731b, 845b. The fifth panel 36b, 144b, 244b, 342b, 444b, 544b, 634b, 734b, 844b is hingedly connected to the third panel 20, 120, 220, 322, 422 / 424, 522 / 524, 620, 720, 822 / 824 along the fourth fold line 39b, 149b, 249b, 347b, 449b, 549b, 633b, 733b, 849b.The cut lines 70, 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670, 770, 870 extend between the first and fourth fold lines or between the second and third fold lines. In the unfolded blank form, the cut lines 70, 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670, 770, 870 bypass the imaginary intersection point V of the first and second fold lines, thereby positioning the imaginary intersection point V to one side of the cut lines 70, 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670, 770, 870 and spaced apart from the fourth and fifth panels.

[0316] The present disclosure also provides cartons 90, 190, 290, 390, 490, 690 for packaging item B. The cartons 90, 190, 290, 390, 490, 690 have a plurality of panel-forming walls of a tubular structure having an interior. The cartons 90, 190, 290, 390, 490, 690 have first walls 18, 118, 218, 324, 420, 520, 618, 718, 820 having end edges and side edges adjacent to the end edges. Second walls 32b, 138b, 328b, 346b, 440b, 540b, 630b, 730b, 840b are adjacent to the first walls 18, 118, 218, 324, 420, 520, 618, 718, 820. The second wall 32b, 138b, 328b, 346b, 440b, 540b, 630b, 730b, 840b is hingedly connected to the edge of the first wall 18, 118, 218, 324, 420, 520, 618, 718, 820 along the first fold line 33b, 139b, 239b, 353b, 443b, 543b, 637b, 737b, 843b. The third wall 20, 120, 220, 322, 422 / 424, 522 / 524, 620, 720, 822 / 824 is adjacent to the first wall 18, 118, 218, 324, 420, 520, 618, 718, 820 and the second wall 32b, 138b, 328b, 346b, 440b, 540b, 630b, 730b, 840b. The third wall 20, 120, 220, 322, 422 / 424, 522 / 524, 620, 720, 822 / 824 may be hingedly connected to a side edge of the first panel 18, 118, 218, 324, 420, 520, 618, 718, 820 along the second fold line 19, 119, 219, 323, 421, 521, 619, 719, 821. The cut line 70, 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670, 770, 870 extends between at least the first fold line and the second fold line. The cut lines 70, 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670, 770, 870 are integral with the first wall 18, 118, 218, 324, 420, 520, 618, 718, 820 and are arranged divergently relative to one of the first folds or the second folds so as to at least partially define a protrusion T1 extending outwardly from said one of the first folds or the second folds.

[0317] The pair of gusset panels may be hinged to one another by the fifth fold line. The pair of gusset panels may join the second panel to the third panel. The pair of gusset panels may be disposed on the interior of the carton.

[0318] The first gusset panel 34b, 142b, 242b, 344b, 442b, 542b, 632b, 732b, 842b may be hingedly connected to a side edge of the second wall 32b, 138b, 328b, 346b, 440b, 540b, 630b, 730b, 840b along a third fold line 35b, 143b, 243b, 351b, 445b, 545b, 631b, 731b, 845b. A portion of the cut line 70, 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670, 770, 870 extends at least between the first fold line and the third fold line, and said portion of the cut line 70, 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670, 770, 870 is arranged divergently with respect to the third fold line 35b, 143b, 243b, 351b, 445b, 545b, 631b, 731b, 845b so as to at least partially define the protrusion T2. The protrusion T2 is integral with the second wall 32b, 138b, 328b, 346b, 440b, 540b, 630b, 730b, 840b and extends outwardly from the third fold 35b, 143b, 243b, 351b, 445b, 545b, 631b, 731b, 845b.

[0319] The second gusset panel 36b, 144b, 244b, 342b, 444b, 544b, 634b, 734b, 844b may be hingedly connected to an edge of the third wall 20, 120, 220, 322, 422 / 424, 522 / 524, 620, 720, 822 / 824 along the fourth fold line 39b, 149b, 249b, 347b, 449b, 549b, 633b, 733b, 849b. A portion of the cut line 70, 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670, 770, 870 extends between at least the fourth fold line and the second fold line, and said portion of the cut line 70, 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670, 770, 870 is arranged divergently with respect to the fourth fold line 39b, 149b, 249b, 347b, 449b, 549b, 633b, 733b, 849b so as to at least partially define the protrusion T2. The protrusion T2 is integral with the third wall 20, 120, 220, 322, 422 / 424, 522 / 524, 620, 720, 822 / 824 and extends outward from the fourth fold 39b, 149b, 249b, 347b, 449b, 549b, 633b, 733b, 849b.

[0320] The present disclosure also provides blanks 10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810 for forming cartons 90, 190, 290, 390, 490, 690. The blanks 10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810 include a plurality of panel-forming walls of tubular construction defining an interior. The plurality of panels includes a first panel 18, 118, 218, 324, 420, 520, 618, 718, 820 having corners defined by end edges and side edges. The second panel 32b, 138b, 328b, 346b, 440b, 540b, 630b, 730b, 840b is hingedly connected to the edge of the first panel 18, 118, 218, 324, 420, 520, 618, 718, 820 along the first fold line 33b, 139b, 239b, 353b, 443b, 543b, 637b, 737b, 843b. The third panel 20, 120, 220, 322, 422 / 424, 522 / 524, 620, 720, 822 / 824 is hingedly connected to the side edge of the first panel 18, 118, 218, 324, 420, 520, 618, 718, 820 along the second fold line 19, 119, 219, 323, 421, 521, 619, 719, 821. The fourth panel 34b, 142b, 242b, 344b, 442b, 542b, 632b, 732b, 842b is hingedly connected to the fifth panel 36b, 144b, 244b, 342b, 444b, 544b, 634b, 734b, 844b. The fourth and fifth panels connect the second panel to the third panel. The fourth and fifth panels are disposed within the interior of the carton 90, 190, 290, 390, 490, 690. The fourth panel 34b, 142b, 242b, 344b, 442b, 542b, 632b, 732b, 842b is hingedly connected to the second panel 32b, 138b, 328b, 346b, 440b, 540b, 630b, 730b, 840b along the third fold line 35b, 143b, 243b, 351b, 445b, 545b, 631b, 731b, 845b.The fifth panel 36b, 144b, 244b, 342b, 444b, 544b, 634b, 734b, 844b is hingedly connected to the third panel 20, 120, 220, 322, 422 / 424, 522 / 524, 620, 720, 822 / 824 along the fourth fold line 39b, 149b, 249b, 347b, 449b, 549b, 633b, 733b, 849b. A cut line 70, 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670, 770, 870 extends between the first and fourth fold lines or between the second and third fold lines. In the unfolded blank form, the cut lines 70, 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670, 770, 870 bypass the imaginary intersection point V of the first and second folds, whereby the imaginary intersection point V is located to one side of the cut lines 70, 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670, 770, 870 and spaced apart from the fourth and fifth panels.

[0321] The present disclosure also provides blanks 10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810 for forming cartons 90, 190, 290, 390, 490, 690. The blanks 10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810 include a first panel 18, 118, 218, 324, 420, 520, 618, 718, 820 having corners defined by end edges and side edges. The end flaps 32b, 138b, 328b, 346b, 440b, 540b, 630b, 730b, 840b are hingedly connected to the edge of the first panel 18, 118, 218, 324, 420, 520, 618, 718, 820 along the first fold lines 33b, 139b, 239b, 353b, 443b, 543b, 637b, 737b, 843b to at least partially close the ends of the cartons 90, 190, 290, 390, 490, 690. The side panels 20,120,220,322,422 / 424,522 / 524,620,720,822 / 824 are hingedly connected to the side edges of the first panels 18,118,218,324,420,520,618,718,820 along the second fold lines 19,119,219,323,421,521,619,719,821. The pair of hinged first and second gusset panels are configured to hold the end flaps 32b, 138b, 328b, 346b, 440b, 540b, 630b, 730b, 840b and the side panels 20, 120, 220, 322, 422 / 422 together when the carton 90, 190, 290, 390, 490, 690 is erected. 4, 522 / 524, 620, 720, 822 / 824.The first gusset panel 34b, 142b, 242b, 344b, 442b, 542b, 632b, 732b, 842b is hingedly connected to the end flap 32b, 138b, 328b, 346b, 440b, 540b, 630b, 730b, 840b along the third fold line 35b, 143b, 243b, 351b, 445b, 545b, 631b, 731b, 845b. The second gusset panel is hingedly connected to the side panel 20, 120, 220, 322, 422 / 424, 522 / 524, 620, 720, 822 / 824 along the fourth fold line 39b, 149b, 249b, 347b, 449b, 549b, 633b, 733b, 849b. Cut lines 70, 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670, 770, 870 extend between the first and fourth fold lines or between the second and third fold lines. The cut lines 70, 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670, 770, 870 bypass the imaginary intersection point V of the first fold and the second fold, whereby the imaginary intersection point V is located on one side of the cut lines 70, 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670, 770, 870 spaced apart from the first gusset panel and the second gusset panel.

[0322] The present disclosure also provides blanks 10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810 for forming cartons 90, 190, 290, 390, 490, 690. The blanks 10, 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710, 810 include a first panel 18, 118, 218, 324, 420, 520, 618, 718, 820 having corners defined by end edges and side edges. The end flaps 32b, 138b, 328b, 346b, 440b, 540b, 630b, 730b, 840b are hingedly connected to the edge of the first panel 18, 118, 218, 324, 420, 520, 618, 718, 820 along the first fold lines 33b, 139b, 239b, 353b, 443b, 543b, 637b, 737b, 843b to at least partially close the ends of the cartons 90, 190, 290, 390, 490, 690. The side panels 20,120,220,322,422 / 424,522 / 524,620,720,822 / 824 are hingedly connected to the side edges of the first panels 18,118,218,324,420,520,618,718,820 along the second fold lines 19,119,219,323,421,521,619,719,821. The pair of hinged first and second gusset panels are configured to hold the end flaps 32b, 138b, 328b, 346b, 440b, 540b, 630b, 730b, 840b and the side panels 20, 120, 220, 322, 422 / 422 together when the carton 90, 190, 290, 390, 490, 690 is erected. 4, 522 / 524, 620, 720, 822 / 824.The first gusset panel 34b, 142b, 242b, 344b, 442b, 542b, 632b, 732b, 842b is hingedly connected to the end flap 32b, 138b, 328b, 346b, 440b, 540b, 630b, 730b, 840b along the third fold line 35b, 143b, 243b, 351b, 445b, 545b, 631b, 731b, 845b. The second gusset panel is hingedly connected to the side panel 20, 120, 220, 322, 422 / 424, 522 / 524, 620, 720, 822 / 824 along the fourth fold line 39b, 149b, 249b, 347b, 449b, 549b, 633b, 733b, 849b. Cut lines 70, 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670, 770, 870 extend between the first and fourth fold lines or between the second and third fold lines. The cutting lines 70, 170, 270, 370, 470, 570, 670, 770, 870 intersect at least the third fold or the fourth fold at a first intersection point P, P2, whereby the first intersection point P, P2 is located closer to the first gusset panel 34b, 142b, 242b, 344b, 442b, 542b, 632b, 732b, 842b than the imaginary intersection point V of the first fold and the second fold.

[0323] It will be understood that various modifications may be made within the scope of the present invention. For example, the size and shape of the panels and openings may be adjusted to accommodate items of different sizes or shapes.

[0324] As used herein, directional references such as "top," "bottom," "base," "front," "back," "end," "side," "inside," "outside," "upper," and "lower" do not necessarily limit the respective panels to such orientations, but may merely serve to distinguish these panels from one another.

[0325] As used herein, the terms "hinge connection" and "fold" refer to any manner of line that defines a hinge mechanism in a blank, facilitates folding of portions of the blank relative to one another, or indicates any panel fold portion of the blank. Any reference to a "hinge connection" should not be construed as necessarily referring to a single fold; in fact, a hinge connection can be formed from two or more folds, each of which may be either straight / rectilinear or curved / curved. When straight folds form a hinge connection, they may be positioned parallel to one another or slightly angled relative to one another. When curved folds form a hinge connection, they may intersect with one another to define a shaped panel within the area enclosed by the curved folds. A typical example of such a hinge connection may include a pair of arched or arcuate folds that intersect at two points to define an oval panel therebetween. A hinge connection may be formed from one or more straight folds and one or more curved folds. A typical example of such a hinge connection may comprise a combination of a straight fold and an arched or arcuate fold that intersect at two points to define a half-moon shaped panel therebetween.

[0326] As used herein, the term "crease" may refer to one of a parting line, an embossed line, a debossed line, a perforation line, a short slit line, a half cut line, a single half cut, an interrupted cut line, a line of aligned slits, a parting line, and any combination of the foregoing options.

[0327] It should be understood that the hinge connections and folds can each include elements formed in the substrate of the blank, including perforations, perforation lines, short slit lines, half-cut lines, single half-cuts, cut lines, interrupted cut lines, slits, splits, any combination thereof, etc. The elements can be sized and positioned to provide the desired functionality. For example, perforation lines can be sized or designed with a degree of weakness to define the folds and / or cut lines. Perforation lines can be designed to facilitate folding and resist breaking, to facilitate folding and facilitate breaking with more effort, or to facilitate breaking with less effort.

[0328] As used herein, the phrase "in alignment" refers to the alignment of two or more elements within an erected carton, such as an opening formed in a first of two overlapping panels and a second opening formed in a second of the two overlapping panels. These elements that are in alignment with one another may be aligned with one another in the thickness direction of the overlapping panels. For example, if an opening in a first panel is "in alignment" with a second opening in a second panel that is placed in an overlapping arrangement 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]

[0329] 10 blank 12 Main Panel 14 Main Panel 16 Main Panel 18 Main Panel 20 Main Panel 22 Main Panel 24 Main Panel 90 cartons or carriers, containers 110 Blank 190 cartons or carriers, containers 210 Blank 290 Cartons or carriers, containers 310 Blank 390 Cartons or carriers, containers 410 Blank 490 cartons or carriers, containers 510 Blank 610 Blank 690 Cartons or carriers, containers 710 Blank 810 Blank B Goods

Claims

1. 1. A corner folding arrangement for a carton for packaging one or more articles, said corner folding arrangement comprising: a first panel having corners defined by end edges and side edges; a second panel hingedly connected to the edge of the first panel along a first fold line; a third panel hingedly connected to the side edge of the first panel along a second fold line; A fourth panel; a fifth panel hinged to the fourth panel, the fourth panel and the fifth panel joining the second panel to the third panel; and Equipped with a corner fold configuration, wherein the fourth panel is hingedly connected to the second panel along a third fold line and the fifth panel is hingedly connected to the third panel along a fourth fold line, a cut line extends between the first fold line and the fourth fold line or between the second fold line and the third fold line, and in an unfolded blank form, the cut line bypasses an imaginary intersection of the first fold line and the second fold line, whereby the imaginary intersection is located on one side of the cut line spaced from the fourth panel and the fifth panel.

2. 10. The corner folding arrangement of claim 1, wherein the carton for packaging one or more items comprises a plurality of panels forming walls of a tubular structure having an interior, the fourth panel and the fifth panel being disposed within the interior of the carton.

3. 1. A carton for packaging one or more items, comprising a plurality of panels forming walls of a tubular structure having an interior, a first wall having an end edge and a side edge adjacent the end edge; a second wall hingedly connected to the edge of the first wall along a first fold line; a third wall hingedly connected to the side edge of the first wall along a second fold line; Equipped with a cut line extending at least between the first fold line and the second fold line, the cut line being divergently disposed with respect to one of the first fold line and the second fold line so as to at least partially define a protrusion integral with the first wall surface and extending outwardly from one of the first fold line and the second fold line; The carton wherein the cut line is non-linear, the cut line comprising at least two portions disposed at an angle relative to one another.

4. 4. The carton of claim 3, wherein the carton comprises a pair of gusset panels hingedly connected to one another by a fifth fold line, the pair of gusset panels joining the second wall to the third wall, the pair of gusset panels being disposed within the interior of the carton.

5. 4. The carton of claim 3, wherein the carton comprises a first gusset panel hingedly connected to a side edge of the second wall along a third fold line, a portion of the tear line extending at least between the first fold line and the third fold line, and the portion of the tear line divergingly disposed about the third fold line to at least partially define a protrusion integral with the second wall and extending outward from the third fold line.

6. 4. The carton of claim 3, wherein the carton includes a second gusset panel hingedly connected to an edge of the third wall along a fourth fold line, a portion of the tear line extending at least between the fourth fold line and the second fold line, and the portion of the tear line divergingly disposed about the fourth fold line to at least partially define a protrusion integral with the third wall and extending outward from the fourth fold line.

7. 1. A blank for forming a carton, said blank comprising a plurality of panels forming walls of a tubular structure defining an interior, said plurality of panels comprising: a first panel having corners defined by end edges and side edges; a second panel hingedly connected to the edge of the first panel along a first fold line; a third panel hingedly connected to the side edge of the first panel along a second fold line; A fourth panel; a fifth panel hingedly connected to the fourth panel, the fourth panel and the fifth panel joining the second panel to the third panel, the fourth panel and the fifth panel being disposed within the carton when the carton is erected; and Including, the fourth panel is hingedly connected to the second panel along a third fold line, the fifth panel is hingedly connected to the third panel along a fourth fold line, and a cut line extends between the first fold line and the fourth fold line or between the second fold line and the third fold line, the cut line bypassing an imaginary intersection of the first fold line and the second fold line, whereby the imaginary intersection is located on one side of the cut line spaced apart from the fourth panel and the fifth panel.

8. the second panel having an end flap hingedly connected to the end edge of the first panel along a first fold line to at least partially close an end of the carton; the third panel comprises a side panel hingedly connected to the side edge of the first panel along a second fold line; the fourth panel comprises a first gusset panel, the fifth panel comprises a second gusset panel hingedly connected to the first gusset panel, the first gusset panel and the second gusset panel extending between the end flap and one of the side panels so as to be disposed beneath the end flap and one of the side panels when the carton is erected; 8. The blank of claim 7, wherein the first gusset panel is hingedly connected to the end flap along the third fold line and the second gusset panel is hingedly connected to the side panel along the fourth fold line, and the cut line bypasses the imaginary intersection of the first fold line and the second fold line, whereby the imaginary intersection is located on one side of the cut line spaced apart from the first gusset panel and the second gusset panel.

9. the second panel having an end flap hingedly connected to the end edge of the first panel along a first fold line to at least partially close an end of the carton; the third panel comprises a side panel hingedly connected to the side edge of the first panel along a second fold line; the fourth panel comprises a first gusset panel, the fifth panel comprises a second gusset panel hingedly connected to the first gusset panel, the first gusset panel and the second gusset panel extending between the end flap and one of the side panels so as to be disposed beneath the end flap and one of the side panels when the carton is erected; 8. The blank of claim 7, wherein the first gusset panel is hingedly connected to the end flap along the third fold line, the second gusset panel is hingedly connected to the side panel along the fourth fold line, and the cut line intersects at least the third fold line or the fourth fold line at a first intersection point, whereby the first intersection point is located closer to the first gusset panel than the imaginary intersection point of the first fold line and the second fold line.

10. The blank of claim 7 , wherein the cutting lines are straight.

11. The blank of claim 7 , wherein the cut line is non-linear.

12. The blank of claim 11 , wherein the cutting line is curved or arcuate.

13. The blank of claim 11 , wherein the cut line comprises at least two portions disposed at an angle relative to one another.

14. The blank of claim 11 , wherein the cut line comprises at least two continuous portions disposed at an angle relative to one another.

15. The blank of claim 8 , wherein at least one of the end flap and the first panel includes one or more additional folds.

16. The blank of claim 8 , wherein the cut line extends through at least one of the first panel, the side panel, and the end flap.

17. The blank of claim 8 , wherein the cut line is convex when viewed from the first gusset panel.

18. The blank of claim 8 , wherein the cut line is concave when viewed from the first gusset panel.

19. The blank of claim 8 , wherein the second gusset panel forms an anchor panel.

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