Product carriers and semi-finished products thereof

Abstract

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a package, an article carrier for packaging a plurality of articles, and a semi-finished product for forming the article carrier. The article carrier may package at least one article having a recess. The article carrier includes a plurality of panels for forming a tubular structure to surround the at least one article. The article carrier includes an article retention device for engaging with the recess of one of the at least one article. The article retention device may prevent the article from exiting at least one of the opposing open ends of the tubular structure in the assembled carrier. The tubular structure defines a tube axis. The article retention device includes a flap hingedly connected to a first panel of the plurality of panels along a first fold line. The first fold line extends at an acute angle to the tube axis. The acute angle may be 50 degrees or less.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 957,987, filed January 7, 2020, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 62 / 964,404, filed January 22, 2020, which are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.

[0002] The present invention relates to article carriers and blanks for forming the same. More particularly, but not exclusively, the present invention relates to article holding structures including engagement devices for securing the ends of articles. Aspects of the present invention relate to wrap-around carriers having handles. [Background technology]

[0003] In the packaging art, it is known to provide cartons or article carriers for carrying multiple articles. Cartons are well known in the art and are useful for allowing consumers to transport, store, and access groups of articles for consumption. Due to cost and environmental considerations, such cartons or carriers should be formed from as little material as possible to minimize raw material waste. An additional consideration is the strength of the carton and its suitability for holding and transporting heavy articles. It is desirable for the carton to have a handle strong enough to withstand the load of the carton and its contents.

[0004] It is desirable that the items within the carton be securely held and protected during transport, and it is also desirable that the items within the carton be easily accessible. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] The present invention seeks to provide an improvement in the field of cartons, which are typically formed from cardboard or the like. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] A first aspect of the present invention provides a semi-finished product for forming an article carrier. The article carrier is capable of packaging at least one article having a recess. The semi-finished product includes a plurality of panels forming a tubular structure to enclose the at least one article. The semi-finished product includes an article retention device for engaging the recess of one of the at least one article. The article retention device is capable of preventing the article from exiting at least one of the opposing open ends of the tubular structure in the assembled carrier. The tubular structure defines a tube axis. The article retention device includes a flap hingedly connected to a first panel of the plurality of panels along a first fold line. The first fold line extends at an acute angle to the tube axis. The acute angle may be 50 degrees or less.

[0007] Optionally, the flap is hingedly connected to fold inwardly of the carrier toward a second panel of the plurality of panels, the second panel being hingedly connected to a first panel of the plurality of panels along a second fold line parallel to the axis of the tube.

[0008] Optionally, the flap is at least partially defined by at least one cut in a first panel of the plurality of panels, the at least one cut having at least one curved terminal end adjacent to and directed toward one end of the first fold.

[0009] Optionally, the at least one curved terminal end is connected to one end of the first fold.

[0010] Optionally, the acute angle is greater than or equal to 10 degrees and less than or equal to 30 degrees.

[0011] A second aspect of the present invention provides a semi-finished product for forming an article carrier. The article carrier can package at least one article having a recess. The semi-finished product includes a plurality of panels forming a tubular structure to enclose the at least one article. The semi-finished product includes an article retention device for engaging with the recess of one of the at least one article. The article retention device can prevent the article from exiting at least one of the opposing open ends of the tubular structure in the assembled carrier. The article retention device includes a flap made from only a first panel of the plurality of panels and hingedly connected to the first panel of the plurality of panels along a first fold line. The flap defines at least a portion of a mechanical tension opening when folded about the first fold line. A mechanical element can engage with the mechanical tension opening to tighten the semi-finished product around the at least one article. The flap can be a single or integral member formed from material removed from the mechanical tension opening.

[0012] Optionally, the mechanical pulling opening includes a recess along a periphery of the mechanical pulling opening, the recess being located at a position opposite the first fold.

[0013] Optionally, the mechanical pulling opening includes a recess along a periphery of the mechanical pulling opening, the recess being located at a location across the mechanical pulling opening from the first fold line.

[0014] Optionally, the flap is at least partially defined by a cut in a first panel of the plurality of panels, and the recess is positioned to interrupt the cut and divide the cut into two portions, each extending from the recess to opposite ends of the first fold.

[0015] A third aspect of the present invention provides a semi-finished product for forming an article carrier. The article carrier can package at least one article having a recess. The semi-finished product includes a plurality of panels forming a tubular structure to surround the at least one article. The semi-finished product includes an article retention device for engaging the recess of one of the at least one article. The article retention device can prevent the article from passing through at least one of the opposing open ends of the tubular structure in the assembled carrier. The semi-finished product has a longitudinal axis. The article retention device includes a flap hingedly connected to a first panel of the plurality of panels along a first fold line. The first fold line extends at an acute angle to the longitudinal axis. The acute angle can be greater than 40 degrees and less than 90 degrees.

[0016] A fourth aspect of the present invention provides an article carrier for packaging at least one article, each having a recess. The article carrier includes a plurality of panels forming a tubular structure to surround the at least one article. The article carrier includes an article retention device for engaging the recess of one of the at least one article to prevent the article from passing through at least one of the opposing open ends of the tubular structure. The tubular structure defines a tube axis. The article retention device includes a flap hingedly connected to a first of the plurality of panels along a first fold line. The first fold line extends at an acute angle to the tube axis. The acute angle may be 50 degrees or less.

[0017] A fifth aspect of the present invention provides an article carrier for packaging at least one article, each having a recess. The article carrier includes a plurality of panels forming a tubular structure to surround the at least one article. The article carrier includes an article retention device for engaging the recess of one of the at least one article to prevent the article from exiting at least one of the opposing open ends of the tubular structure. The article retention device includes a flap made from only a first panel of the plurality of panels and hingedly connected along a first fold line. When folded about the first fold line, the flap defines at least a portion of a mechanical tension opening for a mechanical element to engage with the blank and tighten around the at least one article. The flap may be a single or integral member formed from material removed from the mechanical tension opening.

[0018] A sixth aspect of the present invention provides an article carrier for packaging at least one article, each having a recess. The article carrier comprises a plurality of panels forming a tubular structure to enclose the at least one article. The article carrier comprises an article retention device for engaging the recess of one of the at least one article to prevent the article from exiting at least one of the opposing open ends of the tubular structure. The article carrier has a horizontal axis. The horizontal axis is perpendicular to the tube axis of the tubular structure. The article retention device comprises a flap hingedly connected to a first panel of the plurality of panels along a first fold line. The first fold line extends at an acute angle to the horizontal axis. The acute angle may be greater than 40 degrees and less than 90 degrees.

[0019] A seventh aspect of the present invention provides an article-engaging flap formed from and hingedly connected to a bottom panel of a carton. The engagement flap is partially defined by a free edge that includes a section for forming a non-protruding or cut portion. This section includes a portion of the free edge that is disposed nearest a side panel of the carton when the carton is in an upright position. The engagement flap is folded inward by more than 90 degrees toward the side panel.

[0020] Optionally, the segment is selected from the group consisting of a straight segment, a reentrant segment and a concave angled segment.

[0021] Optionally, the engagement flap further comprises an engagement section for engaging a portion of the article.

[0022] An eighth aspect of the present invention provides a semi-finished product for forming an article carrier for packaging at least one article, each having a recess. The semi-finished product includes a plurality of panels for forming a tubular structure to surround the at least one article. The semi-finished product includes an article retention device for engaging the recess of one of the at least one article to prevent the article from exiting at least one of the opposing open ends of the tubular structure. The article retention device includes a flap formed from a first panel of the plurality of panels and hingedly connected along a first fold line. The flap defines an opening in the first panel of the plurality of panels when folded away from the face of the first panel of the plurality of panels. The opening includes a notch along a free edge of the flap when the flap is in an initial, unfolded position. The free end includes a section disposed adjacent to the notch to form a non-protruding, cutout, or recessed portion.

[0023] Optionally, the section is positioned to define a portion of a notch when the flap is in the initial position.

[0024] Optionally, the section is positioned to extend from the notch.

[0025] A ninth aspect of the present invention provides a package comprising an article carrier and at least one article, each having a recess. The article carrier comprises a plurality of panels for forming a tubular structure to surround the at least one article. The article carrier comprises an article retention device for engaging with the recess of one of the at least one article to prevent the article from exiting at least one of the opposing open ends of the tubular structure. The article retention device comprises a flap formed from a first panel of the plurality of panels and hingedly connected along a first fold line. The flap defines an opening in the first panel of the plurality of panels when folded out of the plane of the panel. The opening includes a notch along a free edge of the flap when the flap is in an initial, unfolded position. The free end includes a section disposed adjacent to the notch for forming a non-protruding, cut-out, or recessed portion. The engagement flap may include an engagement section for engaging a portion of the at least one article.

[0026] Within the scope of this application, it is envisioned or intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternatives detailed in the preceding sections, claims and / or the following description and drawings may be considered or employed independently or in any combination thereof.

[0027] Features or elements described in connection with or relating to one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments where the features are compatible. One or more features or elements from one embodiment may be incorporated or combined with any other embodiment disclosed herein, and the features or elements extracted from said one embodiment may be included in addition to or instead of one or more features or elements of said other embodiment.

[0028] Any feature or combination of features of an embodiment disclosed herein may be extracted in isolation from other features of that embodiment, or any feature or combination of features of an embodiment may be omitted from that embodiment.

[0029] Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0030] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a top plan view of a blank for forming an article carrier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 2] 2 is a perspective view of an article carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 1. [Figure 3] 3 is a perspective view from below of the article carrier of FIG. 2.

[0014] FIG. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a top plan view of a blank for forming an article carrier according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 5] 2 is a perspective view of an article carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 1. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a top plan view of a blank for forming an article carrier according to yet a further embodiment of the present disclosure. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a top plan view of a portion of the semi-finished product of FIG. 6, showing the position of the article relative thereto. [Figure 8] 7 is a perspective view of an article carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 6. [Figure 9] 9 is a perspective view from below of the article carrier of FIG. 8. FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0031] Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of packages, semi-finished products, and article carriers are disclosed herein. It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of ways in which certain aspects of the present invention may be implemented and do not represent an exhaustive list of all ways in which the present invention may be embodied. As used herein, the term "exemplary" is used expansively to refer to embodiments that serve as an example, specimen, model, or pattern. Indeed, it will be understood that the packages, semi-finished products, and article carriers described herein may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale, and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components. Well-known components, materials, or methods are not necessarily described in great detail so as not to obscure the present disclosure. Any specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be construed as limitations, but merely as a basis for the claims and as representative basic principles for teaching those skilled in the art how to utilize the present invention in various ways.

[0032] Referring to Figure 1, there is shown a plan view of a semi-finished product 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, beverage cans, hereinafter referred to as Item B. The semi-finished product 10 can be assembled to form a secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package.

[0033] Referring to Figure 4, there is shown a plan view of another blank 110 that can form, but is not limited to, a carton or carrier 190 for containing and carrying a group of primary products, such as beverage cans as shown in Figure 5. The blank 110 can be assembled to form a secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package.

[0034] Referring to Figure 6, there is shown a plan view of a third blank 210 which may form, but is not limited to, a carton or carrier 290 for containing and carrying a group of primary products, such as beverage cans as shown in Figure 8. The blank 210 may be assembled to form a secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package.

[0035] In the embodiments detailed herein, for non-limiting purposes of describing various features of the present invention, the terms "carton" and "carrier" refer to containers 90, 190, 290 for engaging and carrying an article B, such as a primary product container B. It is contemplated that the teachings of the present invention may be applied to various product containers B, which may or may not be tapered and / or cylindrical. Other exemplary containers include bottles (e.g., metal, glass, or plastic bottles), cans (e.g., aluminum cans), tin cans, cups, pots, cigarette pouches, packets, etc. The article may include a recess or indentation at its top and / or bottom end. In some embodiments, the article may include a protrusion or flange extending outward, upward, or downward to provide a wall or engagement surface.

[0036] The blanks 10, 110, 210 are formed from sheets of suitable substrate. It should be understood that the term "suitable substrate" as used herein includes all types of foldable sheet material, such as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, etc. It should be understood that one or more other blanks may be employed, as appropriate, to provide, for example, the carrier structures described in more detail below.

[0037] The packaging structures or cartons 90, 190, 290 described herein may be formed from sheet materials such as paperboard and may be made or coated with materials to enhance strength. One example of such a sheet material is tear-resistant NATRALOCK® paperboard manufactured by WestRock Company. It should be noted that tear-resistant materials may be provided by multiple layers to help improve the tear resistance of the package. Generally, one side of the sheet material may have different properties than the other side. For example, the outer sheet material side of the finished package may be particularly smooth and may have a coating, such as a clay coating or other surface treatment, to provide excellent printability. On the other hand, the inner side of the sheet material may have a coating, layer, treatment, or may be primed to provide properties such as tear resistance, excellent adhesive ability, heat sealability, or one or more other desired functional properties.

[0038] 1-3, the semi-finished product 10 is configured to form a carton or carrier 90 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary items B. In the illustrated embodiment, the arrangement is an m×n matrix or array having two rows (m=2) and two columns (n=2), with two rows of two items B, where items B are 500 ml beverage cans.

[0039] 4 and 5, the blank 110 is configured to form a carton or carrier 190 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary items B. In the illustrated embodiment, the arrangement is an m×n matrix or array having two rows (m=2) and three columns (n=3), with two rows of three items B, where items B are 500 ml beverage cans.

[0040] 6-9, blank 210 is configured to form a carton or carrier 290 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary items B. In the illustrated embodiment, the arrangement is an m×n matrix or array having two rows (m=2) and three columns (n=3), with two rows of three items B, where items B are 330 ml beverage cans.

[0041] Alternatively, semi-finished products 10, 110, 210 may be configured to form carriers for packaging other types, numbers and sizes of items B and / or items B of different mechanisms or configurations, such as, but not limited to, a fully enclosed carton or basket carrier, where items B may be bottles or cans.

[0042] 1, a blank 10 for forming an article carrier 90 (see FIG. 2) according to certain embodiments of the present disclosure is shown. The blank 10 includes a plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 for forming a tubular structure. The plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 includes a first base panel 12, a first corner or bevel panel 14, a first side panel 16, a second corner or bevel panel 18, a top panel 20, a third corner or bevel panel 22, a second side panel 24, a fourth corner or bevel panel 26, and a second base panel 28. The plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 may be arranged in a sequential, hinged linear series by corresponding fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23, 25, 27.

[0043] In an alternative embodiment, the first, second, third, and fourth corner panels 14, 18, 22, 26 may be omitted.

[0044] Folds 13 and 27 are optionally provided with cuts or separation lines (not shown) collinear with folds 13 and 27, respectively, to interrupt or coincide with said folds 13, 27. The separation lines may provide a shock absorbing or dampening device immediately adjacent the base of carton 90.

[0045] The first corner panel 14 and the fourth corner panel 26 are optional and may be considered to form the bottom of the first side panel 16 or the second side panel 24, respectively, or to be hingedly connected to and form part of the first base panel 12 or the second base panel 28. In some embodiments, the first corner panel 14 and the fourth corner panel 26 may be omitted, and in such embodiments, the fold lines 15, 25 may be omitted.

[0046] The second corner panel 18 and the third corner panel 22 are optional and may be considered to form the top of the first side panel 16 or the second side panel 24, respectively, or to form part of the top panel 20. In some embodiments, the second corner panel 18 and the third corner panel 22 may be omitted, and in such embodiments, the fold lines 17, 23 may be omitted.

[0047] The blank 10 can be folded to form a package 90, as shown in Figures 2 and 3. The first base panel 12 and the second base panel 28 are engageable with one another in an overlapping relationship to form the composite base wall 12 / 28 of the carton 90. The blank 10 can include complementary locking mechanisms for securing the second base panel 28 to the first base panel 12. The second base panel 28 can include at least one first portion F of the complementary locking mechanism. The first base panel 12 can include at least one second portion M of the complementary locking mechanism. In the illustrated embodiment, the second base panel 28 includes a plurality of female tabs F that define an opening in the second base panel 28. The first base panel 12 includes a plurality of male tabs M, and the opening in the second base panel 28 is configured to receive a respective one of the male tabs M. The female tabs F are positioned to displace from the second base panel 28 and form openings to receive and support the male tabs M. In some embodiments, the complementary locking mechanisms M / F may be omitted and the first base panel 12 and the second base panel 28 may be secured to one another by other means such as, but not limited to, adhesive or staples.

[0048] The complementary locking mechanism shown and described is entirely optional.

[0049] The blank 10 comprises at least one item retaining device or item engaging structure T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8.

[0050] The semi-finished product 10 includes at least one first article retaining device (also referred to herein as an upper end article retaining device or article engaging structure) T3, T4, T5, T6 for engaging with the upper end of an article B. The semi-finished product 10 shown in Figure 1 includes four first article engaging structures T3, T4, T5, T6.

[0051] The semi-finished product 10 includes at least one second article retaining device (also referred to herein as a lower end article retaining device or article engaging structure) T1, T2, T7, T8 for engaging a lower end of an article B. The semi-finished product 10 shown in Figure 1 includes four second article engaging structures T1, T2, T7, T8.

[0052] Each of the first article engaging structures T3, T4, T5, T6 includes a flap 60 hingedly connected to the top panel 20. Each of the first T3 and second T5 of the first article engaging structures includes a flap 60 hingedly connected to a first end of the top panel 20. Each of the third T4 and fourth T6 of the first article engaging structures includes a flap 60 hingedly connected to a second end of the top panel 20.

[0053] The flap 60 of the first one of the first article engaging structures T3 and the flap 60 of the second one of the first article engaging structures T5 extend to a first outer edge of the blank 10.

[0054] The flap 60 of the third one T4 of the first article engaging structures and the flap 60 of the fourth one T6 of the first article engaging structures extend to the second outer edge of the blank 10.

[0055] Each flap 60 of the first article engaging structures T3, T4, T5, T6 does not extend beyond the footprint of the top panel 20. Each flap 60 of the first article engaging structures T3, T4, T5, T6 is contained entirely within the footprint of the top panel 20.

[0056] Each flap 60 does not extend beyond the end of the top panel 20 .

[0057] The edges of the top panel 20 are hingedly connected to each of the first side panel 16 and the second side panel 24, or, when present, the second bevel panel 18 and the third bevel panel 22, and are equal in length to the first side panel 16 and the second side panel 24 (or the second bevel panel 18 and the third bevel panel 22).

[0058] A first recess R1 is provided at a first end of the top panel 20, and each flap 60 of the first one T3 and the second one T5 of the first article engaging structures can be considered to be disposed in the first recess R1. Each flap 60 of the first one T3 and the second one T5 of the first article engaging structures can at least partially define the first recess R1 and increase the size of the first recess R1 when folded out of the plane of the top panel 20.

[0059] The first recess R1 is arranged to accommodate the entire flap 60.

[0060] The first recess R1 is defined in the top panel 20 and does not extend into the first and second side panels 16 and 24 or the second and third bevel panels 18 and 22.

[0061] A flap 60 of a first one of the first article-engaging structures T3 is hingedly connected to the top panel 20 at a fold line 61 that is oriented obliquely relative to the fold line 19 that hinges the top panel 20 to the second corner panel 18. The fold line 61 is spaced from a first terminal edge of one of the edges of the top panel 20.

[0062] A flap 60 of a second one of the first article-engaging structures T5 is hingedly connected to top panel 20 at a fold line 61 that is oriented obliquely relative to fold line 21 that hinges top panel 20 to third corner panel 22. Fold line 61 is spaced from a first terminal edge of another one of the edges of top panel 20.

[0063] The fold line 61 hingedly attaching the flap 60 of the first one of the first article engaging structures T3 to the top panel 20 is divergently disposed relative to the fold line 61 hingedly attaching the flap 60 of the second one of the first article engaging structures T5 to the top panel 20. The angle defined between the fold line 61 hingedly attaching the flap 60 of the first one of the first article engaging structures T3 to the top panel 20 and the fold line 61 hingedly attaching the flap 60 of the second one of the first article engaging structures T5 to the top panel 20 may be less than 60°, and in some embodiments may be about 40°. The angle may be greater than 20°, or greater than 30°.

[0064] The fold 61 that hinges the flap 60 of the first one of the first article engagement structures T3 to the top panel 20 and the fold 51 that hinges the flap 60 of the second one of the first article engagement structures T5 to the top panel 20 are arranged to diverge toward the first end of the top panel 20.

[0065] The fold 61 that hinges the flap 60 of the first one of the first article engagement structures T3 to the top panel 20 and the fold 61 that hinges the flap 60 of the second one of the first article engagement structures T5 to the top panel 20 are arranged to converge toward the second end of the top panel 20.

[0066] In this manner, the flap 60 of the first one of the first item engaging structures T3 and the flap 60 of the second one of the first item engaging structures T5 are folded away from each other.

[0067] A second recess R2 is provided at a second end of the top panel 20, and the flaps 60 of the third and fourth first article engaging structures T4 and T6 may be considered to be disposed in the second recess R2. The flaps 60 of the third and fourth first article engaging structures T4 and T6 may at least partially define the second recess R2 and increase the size of the second recess R2 when folded out of the plane of the top panel 20.

[0068] The second recess R2 is defined in the top panel 20 and does not extend into the first and second side panels 16 and 24 or the second and third bevel panels 18 and 22.

[0069] The second recess R2 is arranged to accommodate the entire flap 60.

[0070] A flap 60 of the third one of the first article-engaging structures T4 is hingedly connected to the top panel 20 at a fold line 61 that is oriented obliquely relative to the fold line 19 that hinges the top panel 20 to the second corner panel 18. The fold line 61 is spaced from a second terminal edge of one of the edges of the top panel 20.

[0071] A flap 60 of the fourth one of the first article-engaging structures T6 is hingedly connected to the top panel 20 at a fold line 61 that is oriented obliquely relative to the fold line 21 that hinges the top panel 20 to the third corner panel 22. The fold line 61 is spaced from a second terminal edge of another one of the edges of the top panel 20.

[0072] The folds 61 that hinge the flaps 60 of the third one of the first article engaging structures T4 to the top panel 20 are divergently oriented relative to the folds 61 that hinge the flaps 60 of the fourth one of the first article engaging structures T6 to the top panel 20.

[0073] The fold line 61, which hinges the flap 60 of the third one of the first article engaging structures T4 to the top panel 20, is divergently disposed relative to the fold line 19, which hinges the first side panel 16 (or the second corner panel 18, when present) to the top panel 20. A first angle θ1 is defined between the fold line 61, which hinges the flap 60 of the third one of the first article engaging structures T4, and the fold line 19. The fold line 61, which hinges the flap 60 of the third one of the first article engaging structures T4, is oriented in a direction perpendicular to the longitudinal axis L of the semi-finished product 10. a A second angle θ2 is defined relative to the

[0074] The first angle θ1 may be an acute angle. The first angle θ1 may be 50° or less. The first angle θ1 may be 30° or less. The first angle θ1 may be approximately 20°. The first angle θ1 may be 10° or more.

[0075] The second angle θ2 may be an acute angle. The second angle θ2 may be greater than or equal to 40° and less than 90°.

[0076] The fold line 61 hingedly attaching the flap 60 of the third one of the first article engaging structures T4 to the top panel 20 is divergently disposed relative to the fold line 61 hingedly attaching the flap 60 of the second one of the first article engaging structures T5 to the top panel 20. The angle defined between the fold line 61 hingedly attaching the flap 60 of the first one of the first article engaging structures T3 to the top panel 20 and the fold line 61 hingedly attaching the flap 60 of the second one of the first article engaging structures T5 to the top panel 20 may be less than 60°, and in some embodiments may be about 40°. The angle may be greater than 20°, or greater than 30°.

[0077] The fold 61 hingedly attaching the flap 60 of the third one of the first article engaging structures T4 to the top panel 20 and the fold 41 hingedly attaching the flap 40 of the fourth one of the first article engaging structures T6 to the top panel 20 are arranged to diverge toward the second end of the top panel 20.

[0078] The fold 61 that hinges the flap 60 of the third one of the first article engagement structures T4 to the top panel 20 and the fold 61 that hinges the flap 60 of the fourth one of the first article engagement structures T6 to the top panel 20 are arranged to converge toward the first end of the top panel 20.

[0079] In the blank forming the flap 60, the free edge of the top panel 20 is partially defined.

[0080] The inner ends T3, T4, T5, T6 of the first article engaging structures may be separated from the top panel 20 by cuts 63. The cuts 63 may be curved or arcuate. The cuts 63 may terminate in a "J-shaped" or "C-shaped" portion. The fold lines 61 extend from the curved ends of the cuts 63.

[0081] Each of the second article engaging structures T1, T2, T7, T8 includes a flap 70 hingedly connected to one of the first base panel 12 and the second base panel 28 by a fold line 71. The first one of the second article engaging structures T1 and the second one of the second article engaging structures T2 each include a flap 70 hingedly connected to the first base panel 12. The third one of the second article engaging structures T7 and the fourth one of the second article engaging structures T8 each include a flap 70 hingedly connected to the second base panel 28.

[0082] The fold lines 71 that hinge the flaps 70 of the second article engaging structures T1, T2, T7, T8 to the first base panel 12 and the second base panel 28 are divergently disposed relative to the fold lines 13, 27, respectively. The fold lines 71 that hinge the flaps 70 of the second article engaging structures T1, T2, T7, T8 and one of the fold lines 13, 27 define a third angle θ3 therebetween. The fold lines 71 that hinge the flaps 70 of the second article engaging structures T1, T2, T7, T8 are oriented in a divergent direction relative to the longitudinal axis L of the semi-finished product 10. a A fourth angle θ4 is defined relative to the

[0083] The third angle θ3 may be an acute angle. The third angle θ3 may be less than or equal to 50°. The third angle θ3 may be less than or equal to 30°. The third angle θ3 may be approximately 20°. The third angle θ3 may be greater than or equal to 10°. The third angle θ3 may be equal to the first angle θ1.

[0084] The fourth angle θ4 may be an acute angle. The fourth angle θ4 may be greater than or equal to 40° and less than 90°. The fourth angle θ4 may be equal to the second angle θ2.

[0085] Each of the second article engagement structures T1, T2, T7, and T8 may include an assembly device. The assembly device facilitates fastening of the blank 10 around the group of articles B. The assembly device may include an alignment feature. The assembly device takes the form of an opening in the first base panel 12 or the second base panel 28. The opening (also referred to herein as a mechanical pulling opening) is defined at least in part by a tab 70 of the second article engagement structure T1, T2, T7, or T8. The alignment feature takes the form of a cutaway A1, which in the blank 10 forms an opening adjacent to and continuing from the tab 70. In an operative state, the cutaway A1 forms a recess or notch extending from the opening created in the first base panel 12 or the second base panel 28 formed when the tab 70 is folded inwardly of the carrier 90. In this manner, the opening created in the first base panel 12 or the second base panel 28 by the tab 70 and the cutaway A1 merge or combine to form a single opening. The cutaway A1 is defined by a portion of a notional triangle NT, another portion of NT being contained within the tab 70. One of the vertices of the triangle is disposed outside the footprint of the tab 70 such that the cutaway A1 is formed.

[0086] In the illustrated embodiment, the base of the triangle disposed outside the tab 70 relative to the apex is non-parallel to the fold line 71 that hinges the first base panel 12 or the second base panel 28 to the tab 70, and an angle is defined between the base of the triangle and the fold line 71 that may be equal to the third angle θ3.

[0087] Each of the tabs 70 of the second article engaging structures T1, T2, T7, T8 is defined by a cut 73, the ends of which are arched or curved. A fold 71 extends between the curved ends of the cut 73. The cut 73 is interrupted by a cutaway A1 to form two cut portions.

[0088] Optionally, the handle structure H included in the semi-finished product 10 is in the form of a handle strap that extends across the carrier 90, transversely between the first side panel 16 and the second side panel 24. The handle strap may be defined in part by a first recess R1 and a second recess R2.

[0089] The handle structure H may include a pair of cushion flaps 50a, 50b disposed on either side of the handle strap and hingedly attached thereto by folds 51a, 51b. The cushion flaps 50a, 50b may be partially defined by a first recess R1 or a second recess R2. The cushion flaps 50a, 50b may extend or enlarge the first recess R1 and the second recess R2, respectively. The cushion flaps 50a, 50b may extend between pairs of first article engaging structures T3, T4, T5, T6 and may be separated therefrom by a slit. The first cushion flap 50a extends between the first and second first article engaging structures T3 and T5. The second cushion flap 50b extends between the third and fourth first article engaging structures T4 and T6.

[0090] Referring now to Figure 4, an additional embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In the illustrated second embodiment, where possible, like numerals are used to represent like parts with the addition of the prefix "100" to indicate that these features belong to the second embodiment. The additional embodiment shares many common features with the first embodiment, and therefore, only the differences from the embodiment shown in Figures 1-3 will be described in detail.

[0091] 4 illustrates a blank 110 for forming an article carrier 190 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in FIG. 5. The blank 110 includes a plurality of main panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126, and 128 for forming a tubular structure. The plurality of main panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126, and 128 includes a first base panel 112, an optional first corner or bevel panel 114, a first side panel 116, an optional second corner or bevel panel 118, a top panel 120, an optional third corner or bevel panel 122, a second side panel 124, an optional fourth corner or bevel panel 126, and a second base panel 128. The multiple panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128 may be arranged in a sequential, hinged linear sequence by corresponding fold lines 113, 115, 117, 119, 121, 123, 125, 127.

[0092] The blank 110 of FIG. 4 is adapted to accommodate six items B.

[0093] The blank 110 includes at least one outer or terminal article retaining device or article engaging structure T3, T4, T5, T6 for engaging an upper end of an outer or rearmost disposed article B. The blank 110 shown in Figure 4 includes four terminal article engaging structures T3, T4, T5, T6.

[0094] Each of the outer article engaging structures T3, T4, T5, T6 includes a flap 160 hingedly connected to the top panel 120. Each of the first article engaging structures T3 and the second T5 includes a flap 160 hingedly connected to a first end of the top panel 120. Each of the third and fourth first article engaging structures T4 and T6 includes a flap 160 hingedly connected to a second end of the top panel 120.

[0095] The flaps 160 of the outer article engaging structures T3, T4, T5, T6 do not extend beyond the footprint of the top panel 120. The flaps 160 of the outer article engaging structures T3, T4, T5, T6 are completely contained within the footprint of the top panel 120.

[0096] Each flap 160 does not extend beyond the end of the top panel 120 .

[0097] Each flap 160 of the outer article engaging structures T3, T4, T5, T6 does not extend beyond the edge of the semi-finished product 110 that is at least partially defined by the first side panel 116 and the second side panel 124.

[0098] A first recess R1 is provided at a first end of the top panel 120, and the flaps 160 of the first and second outer article engaging structures T3, T5 can be considered to be disposed in the first recess R1. The flaps 160 of the first and second outer article engaging structures T3, T5 partially define the first recess R1 and increase the size of the first recess R1 when folded out of the plane of the top panel 120.

[0099] The first recess R1 is arranged to accommodate the entire flap 160.

[0100] The first recess R1 is defined in the top panel 120 and does not extend into the first and second side panels 116 and 124 or the second and third bevel panels 118 and 122.

[0101] A flap 160 of the first of the outer article-engaging structures T3 is hingedly connected to the top panel 120 at a fold line 161 that is oriented obliquely relative to a fold line 119 that hinges the top panel 120 to the second corner panel 118. The fold line 161 is spaced from a first terminal edge of one of the edges of the top panel 120.

[0102] A flap 160 of the second of the outer article-engaging structures T5 is hingedly connected to the top panel 120 at a fold line 161 that is oriented obliquely relative to the fold line 121 that hinges the top panel 120 to the third corner panel 122. The fold line 161 is spaced from a first terminal edge of another one of the edges of the top panel 120.

[0103] The fold line 161 hingedly attaching the flap 160 of the first one of the outer article engaging structures T3 to the top panel 120 is divergently disposed relative to the fold line 161 hingedly attaching the flap 160 of the second one of the outer article engaging structures T5 to the top panel 120. The angle defined between the fold line 161 hingedly attaching the flap 160 of the first one of the outer article engaging structures T3 to the top panel 120 and the fold line 161 hingedly attaching the flap 160 of the second one of the outer article engaging structures T5 to the top panel 120 may be less than 50°, and in some embodiments may be approximately 40°.

[0104] The fold 161 that hinges the flap 160 of the first outer article engaging structure T3 to the top panel 120 and the fold 161 that hinges the flap 160 of the second outer article engaging structure T5 to the top panel 120 are arranged in a diverging pattern toward a first end of the top panel 120.

[0105] The fold 161 that hinges the flap 160 of the first outer article engaging structure T1 to the top panel 120 and the fold 161 that hinges the flap 160 of the second outer article engaging structure T5 to the top panel 120 are arranged to converge toward the center or centre of the top panel 120.

[0106] In this manner, the flap 160 of the first one of the outer item engaging structures T3 and the flap 160 of the second one of the outer item engaging structures T5 are folded away from each other.

[0107] A second recess R2 is provided at a second end of top panel 120, and flaps 160 of third and fourth outer article engaging structures T4, T6 can be considered to be disposed in second recess R2. Flaps 160 of third and fourth outer article engaging structures T4, T6 partially define second recess R2 and increase the size of second recess R2 when folded out of the plane of top panel 120.

[0108] The second recess R2 is defined in the top panel 120 and does not extend into the first and second side panels 116 and 124 or the second and third bevel panels 118 and 122.

[0109] The second recess R2 is arranged to accommodate the entire flap 160.

[0110] A flap 160 of the third outer article-engaging structure T4 is hingedly connected to the top panel 120 at a fold line 161 that is oriented obliquely relative to the fold line 119 that hinges the top panel 120 to the second corner panel 118. The fold line 161 is spaced from a second terminal edge of one of the edges of the top panel 120.

[0111] A flap 160 of the fourth outer article-engaging structure T6 is hingedly connected to the top panel 120 at a fold line 161 that is oriented obliquely relative to the fold line 121 that hinges the top panel 120 to the third corner panel 122. The fold line 161 is spaced from a second terminal edge of another one of the edges of the top panel 120.

[0112] The folds 161 that hinge the flaps 160 of the third outer article engaging structures T4 to the top panel 120 are divergently oriented relative to the folds 161 that hinge the flaps 160 of the fourth outer article engaging structures T6 to the top panel 120.

[0113] The fold 161 that hinges the flap 160 of the third outer article engaging structure T4 to the top panel 120 and the fold 161 that hinges the flap 160 of the fourth outer article engaging structure T6 to the top panel 120 are arranged in a diverging pattern toward the first end of the top panel 120.

[0114] The fold 161 that hinges the flap 160 of the third outer article engaging structure T4 to the top panel 120 and the fold 161 that hinges the flap 160 of the fourth outer article engaging structure T6 to the top panel 120 are positioned to converge toward the center or centre of the top panel 120.

[0115] The blank 110 may include at least one inner or intermediate article retaining device or article engaging structure T10, T11 for engaging an upper end of an intermediate or centrally disposed article B. The blank 110 shown in Figure 4 includes two inner article engaging structures T10, T11.

[0116] Each of the inner article-engaging structures T10, T11 includes a flap 162 hingedly connected to the top panel 120.

[0117] A flap 162 of the first of the inner article-engaging structures T10 is hingedly connected to the top panel 120 at a fold line 163 that is oriented parallel to the fold line 129 that hinges the top panel 220 to the second corner panel 128.

[0118] Fold line 163 of first one of the interior article-engaging structures T10 defines a hinged edge of flap 162 that, in the unfolded state, is disposed closer to fold line 119 than the free edge defined by the cut or separation line. In the folded, operable state, the free edge of flap 162 is disposed closer to first side panel 116 than the hinged edge defined by fold line 163.

[0119] A flap 162 of the second of the inner article-engaging structures T11 is hingedly connected to the top panel 120 at a fold line 163 that is oriented parallel to the fold line 121 that hinges the top panel 120 to the third corner panel 122.

[0120] Fold line 163 of second one of the inner article-engaging structures T11 defines a hinged edge of flap 162 that, in the unfolded state, is disposed closer to fold line 121 than the free edge defined by the cut or separation line. In the folded, operable state, the free edge of flap 162 is disposed closer to second side panel 116 than the hinged edge defined by fold line 163.

[0121] The fold line 163 that hinges the flap 162 of the first inner article engaging structure T10 to the top panel 120 is aligned parallel to the fold line 163 that hinges the flap 162 of the second inner article engaging structure T11 to the top panel 120.

[0122] The blank 110 includes at least one second outer or terminal article retention device or article engagement structure T1, T2, T7, T8 for engaging a lower end of an outer or rearmost disposed article B. The blank 110 shown in Figure 4 includes four terminal article engagement structures T1, T2, T7, T8. The second outer or terminal article retention device of the embodiment shown in Figure 4 is substantially similar in configuration to the second article retention devices T1, T2, T7, T8 of the embodiment shown in Figure 1.

[0123] The blank 110 may include at least one second, inner or intermediate article retaining device or article engaging structure T9, T12 for engaging a lower end of an intermediate or centrally disposed article B. The blank 110 shown in Figure 4 includes two second, inner, article engaging structures T9, T12.

[0124] Each of the second intermediate article engaging structures T9, T12 includes a flap 172 hingedly connected to one of the first base panel 112 and the second base panel 128 by a fold line 175. The first of the second intermediate article engaging structures T9 includes a flap 170 hingedly connected to the first base panel 112. The second of the second intermediate article engaging structures T12 includes a flap 170 hingedly connected to the second base panel 128.

[0125] The fold lines 175 that hinge each flap 172 of the second intermediate article engaging structures T9, T12 to the first base panel 112 and the second base panel 128 are disposed substantially parallel to the fold lines 113, 127, respectively.

[0126] Each of the second intermediate article engagement structures T9, T12 may include an assembly device. The assembly device facilitates fastening of the blank 110 around the group of articles B. The assembly device may include an alignment feature. The assembly device takes the form of an opening in the first base panel 112 or the second base panel 128. The opening (also referred to herein as a mechanical pulling opening) is defined in part by a tab 172 in the second intermediate article engagement structure T9, T12. The alignment feature takes the form of a cutaway A2, which in the blank 110 forms an opening adjacent to and continuing from the tab 172. In an operative state, the cutaway A2 forms a recess or notch extending from the opening created in the first base panel 112 or the second base panel 128 formed when the tab 172 is folded inwardly of the carrier 190. In this manner, the opening created in the first base panel 112 or the second base panel 128 by the tab 172 and the cutaway A2 merge or combine to form a single opening. The cutaway A2 is defined by a portion of a notional triangle NT2, another portion of which is contained within the tab 172. One of the vertices of the triangle is disposed outside the footprint of the tab 172 such that the cutaway A2 is formed.

[0127] In the illustrated embodiment, the base relative to the apex of the triangle disposed on the exterior of the tab 172 is parallel to the fold line 175 that hinges the tab 172 to the first base panel 112 or the second base panel 128 .

[0128] Each of the tabs 172 of the second intermediate article engaging structures T9, T12 is defined by a slit 177, the ends of which are arched or curved. A fold 175 extends between the curved ends of the slit 177. The slit 177 is interrupted by a cutaway A2 to form two slit portions.

[0129] Optionally, the handle structure H included in the semi-finished product 110 is in the form of a handle strap that extends across the carrier 190, crossing between the first side panel 116 and the second side panel 124. The handle strap may be defined in part by a first recess R1 and a second recess R2.

[0130] The handle structure H may include a pair of cushion flaps 50a, 50b disposed on either side of the handle strap and hingedly attached at folds 151a, 151b.

[0131] The first cushion flap 150a may be spaced apart from the flaps 170 of the first and second outer article engaging structures T3 and T5.

[0132] The second cushion flap 150b may be spaced apart from the flaps 170 of the third and fourth outer article engaging structures T4 and T6.

[0133] Referring now to Figure 6, an additional embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In the illustrated third embodiment, where possible, like numerals are used to represent like parts with the addition of the prefix "200" to indicate that these features belong to the third embodiment. The additional embodiment shares many common features with the first and second embodiments, and therefore, only the differences from the embodiments shown in Figures 1-5 will be described in detail.

[0134] Figure 6 illustrates a blank 210 for forming an article carrier 290 according to another embodiment of the present disclosure, as shown in Figure 8. The blank 210 includes a plurality of main panels 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, and 228 for forming a tubular structure. The plurality of main panels 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, and 228 includes a first base panel 212, an optional first corner or bevel panel 214, a first side panel 216, an optional second corner or bevel panel 218, a top panel 220, an optional third corner or bevel panel 222, a second side panel 224, an optional fourth corner or bevel panel 226, and a second base panel 228. The multiple panels 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, 228 may be arranged in a sequential, hinged linear sequence by corresponding fold lines 213, 215, 217, 219, 221, 223, 225, 227.

[0135] The blank 210 includes at least one outer or terminal article retention device (or article engagement structure) T3, T4, T5, T6 for engaging an upper end of an outer or rearmost disposed article B. The blank 210 shown in Figure 6 includes four terminal article engagement structures T3, T4, T5, T6. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper intermediate article retention device of Figure 4 is omitted, but may be included in other embodiments.

[0136] Optionally, blank 210 includes a handle structure H in the form of a pair of finger tabs 262 fabricated from top panel 220 and hingedly connected by fold line 263. Finger tabs 262 are hingedly attached opposite one another.

[0137] The blank 210 includes at least one second outer or terminal article retaining device (or article engaging structure) T1, T2, T7, T8 for engaging a lower end of an outer or rearmost disposed article B. The blank 210 shown in Figure 6 includes four terminal article engaging structures T1, T2, T7, T8.

[0138] 6, the second outer or terminal item retaining devices T1, T2, T7, T8 each include a flap 270 hingedly connected to one of the first and second base panels 212, 228 by a fold line 271. The first and second second article engaging structures T1 and T2 each include a flap 270 hingedly connected to the first base panel 212. The third and fourth second article engaging structures T7 and T8 each include a flap 270 hingedly connected to the second base panel 228.

[0139] The fold lines 271 that hinge each flap 270 of the second article engaging structures T1, T2, T7, T8 to the first base panel 212 and the second base panel 228 are divergently disposed relative to the fold lines 213, 227, respectively. The fold lines 271 that hinge each flap 270 of the second terminal article engaging structures T1, T2, T7, T8 define an angle with respect to the longitudinal axis of the blank 210.

[0140] Each of the second end article engagement structures T1, T2, T7, and T8 may include an assembly device. The assembly device facilitates fastening of the blank 210 around the group of articles B. The assembly device may include an alignment feature. The assembly device takes the form of an opening in the first base panel 212 or the second base panel 228. The opening (also referred to herein as a mechanical pulling opening) is defined at least in part by a tab 270 in the second end article engagement structures T1, T2, T7, and T8. The alignment feature takes the form of a cutaway A2 in the blank 210 that forms an opening adjacent to and continuing from the tab 270. In an operative state, the cutaway A2 forms a recess or notch extending from the opening created in the first base panel 212 or the second base panel 228 formed when the tab 270 is folded inwardly of the carrier 290.

[0141] Each of the tabs 270 of the second terminal article engaging structures T1, T2, T7, T8 is defined by a cut 273a / 273b / 273c, which comprises a first portion 273a, a second portion 273b, and a third portion 273c.

[0142] The ends of first portion 273a and third portion 273c of cuts 273a / 273b / 273c adjacent to fold line 271 are arched or curved. Fold line 271 extends between the curved ends of cuts 273a / 273b / 273c. Cuts 273a / 273b / 273c are interrupted by cutaway A2, with cut portions 273a and 273b disposed on a first side of cutaway A2 and the other cut portion 273c disposed on the opposite side of cutaway A2.

[0143] At least one of the cut portions 273a / 273b / 273c may be shaped to provide a relief. In the illustrated embodiment, the second cut portion 273b provides the relief.

[0144] The relief facilitates engagement of tab 270 with the base of item B. The relief may define a non-securing or non-engaging edge of tab 270. In this manner, the portion of tab 270 defined by the relief can move freely or easily between an engaged and disengaged state with respect to item B.

[0145] The second break portion 273b may be spaced apart from an engagement surface provided by item B, which may take the form of a wall provided by a recess, perpendicular portion, or flange extending from or into the base of item B. In this way, the second break portion 273b may not contact item B. This may have the effect of reducing friction between the tab 270 and item B, compared to the first and second illustrated embodiments, making engagement of the tab 270 with the item easier by reducing the force required.

[0146] In the illustrated embodiment, the second break portion 273b has a substantially straight shape, which has the effect of shortening the tab 270. It should be understood that the second break portion 273b can have other shapes that also have the effect of shortening the tab 270, for example, but not limited to, the second break portion 273b can be concave or recessed, can be non-linear or arcuate (also referred to herein as reentrant), or can comprise two or more consecutive straight sections arranged diverging relative to one another (also referred to herein as forming a recessed angle).

[0147] The blank 210 may include at least one second, inner or intermediate article retaining device or article engaging structure T9, T12 for engaging a lower end of an intermediate or centrally disposed article B. The blank 210 shown in Figure 6 includes two second, inner, article engaging structures T9, T12.

[0148] Each of the second intermediate article engaging structures T9, T12 includes a flap 272 hingedly connected to one of the first base panel 212 and the second base panel 228 by a fold line 275. The first of the second intermediate article engaging structures T9 includes a flap 272 hingedly connected to the first base panel 212. The second of the second intermediate article engaging structures T12 includes a flap 270 hingedly connected to the second base panel 228.

[0149] The fold lines 275 that hinge each flap 272 of the second intermediate article engaging structures T9, T12 to the first base panel 212 and the second base panel 228 are disposed substantially parallel to the fold lines 213, 227, respectively.

[0150] Each of the second intermediate article engagement structures T9, T12 may include an assembly device. The assembly device facilitates fastening of the blank 210 around the group of articles B. The assembly device may include an alignment feature. The assembly device takes the form of an opening in the first base panel 212 or the second base panel 228. The opening (also referred to herein as a mechanical pulling opening) is defined in part by a tab 272 in the second intermediate article engagement structure T9, T12. The alignment feature takes the form of a cutaway A2, which in the blank 210 forms an opening adjacent to and continuing from the tab 272. In an operative state, the cutaway A2 forms a recess or notch extending from the opening created in the first base panel 212 or the second base panel 228 formed when the tab 272 is folded inwardly of the carrier 290. In this manner, the opening created in the first base panel 212 or the second base panel 228 by the tab 272 and the cutaway A2 merge or combine to form a single opening. The cutaway A2 is defined by a portion of a notional triangle NT2, another portion of which is contained within the tab 272. One of the vertices of the triangle is disposed outside the footprint of the tab 272 such that the cutaway A2 is formed.

[0151] In the illustrated embodiment, the base relative to the apex of the triangle disposed on the exterior of the tab 272 is parallel to the fold line 275 that hinges the tab 272 to the first base panel 212 or the second base panel 228 .

[0152] Each of the tabs 272 of the second intermediate article engaging structures T9, T12 is defined by a cut 277a / 277b / 277c, which comprises a first portion 277a, a second portion 277b and a third portion 277c.

[0153] Of the cuts 277a / 277b / 277c, the ends of the first portion 277a and the third portion 277c adjacent to the fold 275 are arched or curved.

[0154] Fold 275 extends between the curved ends of cuts 277a / 277b / 277c. Cuts 277a / 277b / 277c are interrupted by cutaway A2, with cut portions 277a and 277b disposed on a first side of cutaway A2 and cut portion 277c disposed on the opposite side of cutaway A2.

[0155] At least one of the cut portions 277a / 277b / 277c may be shaped to provide a relief. In the illustrated embodiment, the second cut portion 277b provides the relief.

[0156] The relief facilitates engagement of tab 272 with the base of item B. The relief may define a non-securing or non-engaging edge of tab 272. In this manner, the portion of tab 272 defined by the relief can move freely or easily between an engaged state and a disengaged state with respect to item B.

[0157] Second break portion 277b may be spaced apart from an engagement surface provided by item B. The engagement surface may take the form of a wall provided by a recess, perpendicular portion, or flange extending from or into the base of item B. In this manner, second break portion 277b may not contact item B. This may have the effect of reducing friction between tab 272 and item B, compared to the first and second illustrated embodiments, making engagement of tab 272 with the item easier by reducing the force required.

[0158] In the illustrated embodiment, the second break portion 277b has a substantially straight shape, which has the effect of shortening the tab 272. It should be understood that the second break portion 272b can have other shapes that also have the effect of shortening the tab 272, for example, but not limited to, the second break portion 277b can be concave or recessed, can be non-linear or arcuate (also referred to herein as reentrant), or can comprise two or more consecutive straight sections arranged diverging relative to one another (also referred to herein as forming a recessed angle).

[0159] In this manner, tabs 270, 272 form article-engaging flaps hingedly connected to the bottom panel of carton 290. The engagement flaps are partially defined by free edges that include second, non-engaging sections 273b, 277b (defined by second cut portions 273b, 277b) that form cutouts or non-protrusions. The second sections 273b, 277b include a portion of the free edges that are disposed proximate the erected, or folded, carton side panels 216, 224, best shown in FIG. 7, where the dashed-dotted lines indicate the folded, or erected, positions of tabs 270, 272. The dashed lines indicate the position of article B relative to first base panel 212. In the erected state, the engagement flaps are folded inward toward side panel 216 at an angle greater than 90 degrees.

[0160] The second segments 273b, 277b may be straight segments, concave segments, recessed segments, reentrant segments or recessed angled segments.

[0161] The free ends of the tabs 270, 272 include at least one engagement section 273c, 277a, 277c. The engagement sections 273b, 277b (defined by the second and third break portions 273c, 277a, 277c) form a protruding, protruding or projecting region.

[0162] When tabs 270, 272 are in the deployed state, cutaway or notch A2 is located along a portion of the free end of tabs 270, 272. Second or truncated sections 273b, 277b are disposed adjacent cutaway or notch A2.

[0163] The second or truncated section 277b of the second intermediate article engaging structure T9, T12 may be positioned to define a portion of the cutaway or notch A2 when the tab 272 is in the initial position.

[0164] The second or truncated section 273b of the second terminal article engaging structures T1, T2, T7, T8 may be positioned to extend from the cutaway or notch A2 when the tab 270 is in the initial position.

[0165] The present disclosure provides article carriers 90, 190, 290 and blanks 10, 110, 210 for forming the article carriers. The article carriers 90, 190, 290 and blanks 10, 110, 210 include at least one article retention device T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8, T9, T10, T11, T12 for engaging a recess, vertical flange, or other suitable engagement surface provided by an article B. When the article to be packaged is a can, the engagement surface may be provided by a seam or a chime.

[0166] The article carrier 90, 190, 290 can package at least one article B having a recess. The semifinished product 10, 110, 210 includes a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128, 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, 228 for forming a tubular structure to surround one or more articles B. The semifinished product 10, 110, 210 includes article retention devices T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8 for engaging the recess of one of the one or more articles B. The article retention devices T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8 may prevent the article B from exiting at least one of the opposing open ends of the tubular structure of the article carrier 90, 190, 290. The tubular structure is aligned with the axis T of the tube. aThe article retention devices T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8 include flaps 60, 70, 160, 170, 260, 270 hingedly connected along first fold lines 61, 71, 161, 171, 261, 271 to first panels 12, 20, 28, 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128, 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, 228. The first folds 61, 71, 161, 171, 261, 271 are aligned along the axis T of the tube. a The angles θ1 and θ2 may be 50 degrees or less.

[0167] The flaps 60, 70, 160, 170, 260, 270 are hinged to the tube axis T so as to fold inwardly of the article carrier 90, 190, 290 toward a second panel 14, 16, 24, 26, 114, 116, 124, 126, 216, 224 of the plurality of panels, which is hingedly connected to a first panel 12, 20, 28, 112, 120, 128, 212, 220, 228 of the plurality of panels. a and can be hingedly connected along second fold lines 13, 15, 25, 27, 113, 115, 125, 127, 213, 215, 225, 227 parallel to each other.

[0168] The flap 60, 70, 160, 170, 172, 260, 270, 272 may be at least partially defined by at least one cut 73, 173, 177, 273a / 273b / 273c, 277a / 277b / 277c in a first panel 12, 20, 28, 112, 120, 128, 212, 220, 228 of the plurality of panels, and the at least one cut 73, 173, 177, 273a / 273b / 273c, 277a / 277b / 277c has at least one curved end positioned adjacent to and curved toward one end of the first fold 61, 71, 161, 171, 175, 261, 271, 275.

[0169] At least one curved terminal end may be connected to one end of the first fold 61, 71, 161, 171, 175, 261, 271, 275. The acute angles θ1, θ2 may be greater than or equal to 10 degrees and less than or equal to 30 degrees.

[0170] The present disclosure also provides article carriers 90, 190, 290 having mechanical pull openings and blanks 10, 110, 210 for forming these article carriers. The article carriers 90, 190, 290 and / or blanks 10, 110, 210 include article retention devices T1, T2, T7, T8, T9, T12 for engaging a recess in one of at least one article B. The article retention devices T1, T2, T7, T8, T9, T12 can prevent the article B from exiting at least one of the opposing open ends of the tubular structure in the article carrier 90, 190, 290. The article retention devices T1, T2, T7, T8, T9, and T12 each include a flap 70, 170, 172, and 270 made only from a first panel 12, 28, 112, 128, 212, and 228 of the plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, and 28, 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126, and 128, 212, 214, 216, and 218, respectively. 272 and is hingedly connected to a first panel 12, 28, 112, 128, 212, 228 of the plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128, 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, 228 along a first fold line 71, 171, 228, 175, 271, 275. The flap 70, 170, 172, 270, 272, when folded about the first fold line 71, 171, 175, 271, 275, defines at least a portion of a machine pull opening. The mechanical element may engage with the mechanical pulling opening to tighten the blank 10, 110 around at least one article B. The flap 70, 170, 172, 270, 272 may be a single or integral member formed from material removed from the mechanical pulling opening.

[0171] The mechanical pulling opening may include recesses A1, A2 along the periphery, the recesses A1, A2 being located at positions opposite the first folds 71, 171, 175, 271, 275.

[0172] The mechanical pulling opening may include recesses A1, A2 along the periphery, the recesses A1, A2 being located at a location across the mechanical pulling opening from the first fold line 71, 171, 175, 271, 275.

[0173] In a first panel 12, 28, 112, 128, 212, 228 of the plurality of panels, a flap 70, 170, 172, 270, 272 is at least partially defined by a cut 73, 173, 177, 273a / 273b / 273c, 277a / 277b / 277c, and the cut 73, 173, 177, 273a / 273b / 273c, 277a / 277b / 277c is interrupted. The recesses A1, A2 are arranged to divide the cut 73, 173, 177, 273a / 273b / 273c, 277a / 277b / 277c into two portions, and the two portions of the cut 73, 173, 177, 273a / 273b / 273c, 277a / 277b / 277c extend from the recesses A1, A2 to opposite ends of the respective first folds 71, 171, 175, 271, 275.

[0174] The present disclosure further provides a semi-finished product 10, 110, 210 for forming an article carrier 90, 190, 290. The article carrier 90, 190, 290 can package at least one article B having a recess. The semi-finished product 10, 110, 210 includes a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128, 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, 228 for forming a tubular structure to surround the at least one article B. The semi-finished product 10, 110, 210 includes an article retention device T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8 for engaging a recess of one of the at least one article B. The article retention device T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8 may prevent the article B from exiting at least one of the opposing open ends of the tubular structure of the assembled carrier 90, 190, 290. The semi-finished product 10, 110, 210 is oriented along a longitudinal axis L. a The article retention devices T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8 each include a flap 60, 70, 160, 170, 260, 270 hingedly connected to a first panel 12, 20, 28, 112, 120, 128, 212, 220, 228 of the plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128, 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, 228 along a first fold line 61, 71, 161, 171, 261, 271. The first folds 61, 71, 161, 171, 261, and 271 are aligned along the longitudinal axis L a The angles θ3 and θ4 may be greater than or equal to 40 degrees and less than 90 degrees.

[0175] The present disclosure provides an article carrier 90, 190, 290 for packaging at least one article B having a recess. The article carrier 90, 190, 290 includes a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28, 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128, 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, 228 for forming a tubular structure surrounding the at least one article B. The article carrier 90, 190, 290 includes article retention devices T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8 for engaging the recess of one of the at least one article B to prevent the article B from exiting at least one of the opposing open ends of the tubular structure. The article carriers 90, 190, 290 are aligned along the horizontal axis L a Horizontal axis L a is the axis of the tube of the tubular structure T a The article retention devices T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8 each include a flap 60, 70, 160, 170, 260, 270 hingedly connected along a first fold line 61, 71, 161, 171, 261, 271 to a first panel 12, 20, 28, 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128, 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, 228. The first folds 61, 71, 161, 171, 261, and 271 are aligned along the horizontal axis L a The angles θ3 and θ4 may be greater than or equal to 40 degrees and less than 90 degrees.

[0176] The article carrier 90, 190, 290 may be a wrap-around type with a composite wall formed from two panels secured together, which may be the bottom wall of a tubular structure.

[0177] 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 articles of various sizes or shapes. While the illustrated embodiment shows a carton or blank for forming a wrap-around article carrier, in other embodiments, the article carrier may take on alternative styles or forms and may employ one or more of the features of the present disclosure.

[0178] It will be understood that directional references such as "top," "bottom," "base," "front," "rear," "end," "side," "inside," "outside," "upper," and "lower" used herein do not necessarily limit the respective panels to such orientations, but may merely serve to distinguish these panels from one another.

[0179] As used herein, the terms "hinge connection" and "fold line" refer to any type of line that defines a hinge feature in a semifinished product, facilitates folding of the semifinished product relative to one another, or otherwise indicates optimal panel folding locations in the semifinished product. Any reference to a "hinge connection" should not be construed as necessarily referring to only a single fold line; in fact, a hinge connection may be formed from two or more fold lines, each of which may be either straight / linear in shape or curved / curvilinear in shape. Straight fold lines may be disposed parallel to one another when forming a hinge connection, or may be at a slight angle relative to one another. Curvilinear fold lines may intersect with one another when forming a hinge connection to define a panel molded within the area enclosed by the curvilinear fold lines. A representative example of such a hinge connection may include a pair of semicircular or arched fold lines that intersect at two points to define an elliptical panel therebetween. The hinged connection may be formed from one or more straight folds and one or more curved folds. A representative example of such a hinged connection may comprise a combination of a straight fold and a semicircular or arcuate fold that intersect at two points to define a half-moon shaped panel therebetween.

[0180] As used herein, the term "crease" may refer to one of a score line, an embossed line, a debossed line, a line of perforations, a line of short slits, a line of half-cuts, a single half-cut, an interrupted cut, a line of slits, a line of score, and any combination of the foregoing options.

[0181] It should be understood that the hinged connections and folds may each include elements formed in the substrate of the blank, including perforations, lines of perforations, lines of short slits, lines of half-cuts, single half-cuts, cuts, interrupted cuts, slits, scores, any combination thereof, etc. These elements may be sized and positioned to provide the desired functionality. For example, the lines of perforations may be sized or designed with a degree of weakness to define the fold and / or separation line. The design of the lines of perforations may be such that they are easy to fold and resistant to breaking, easy to fold and not easily broken, or easily breakable.

[0182] As used herein, the phrase "overlapping" refers to the alignment of two or more elements, such as an opening formed in a first panel and a second opening formed in a second panel of two overlapping panels in an erected carton. Overlapping elements may be aligned with one another in the thickness direction of the overlapping panels. For example, when an opening in a first panel is "overlapping" with a second opening in a second panel that is positioned overlapping the first panel, the edge of the opening in the first panel 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]

[0183] 10 Semi-finished products 12 Main Panel, First Base Panel 13 fold 14 Main panel, first corner or bevel panel 15 folds 16 Main panel, first side panel 17 crease 18 Main Panel, Second Corner or Bevel Panel 19 creases 20 Main panel, upper panel 21 crease 22 Main Panel, Third Corner or Bevel Panel 23 crease 24 Main panel, second side panel 25 folds 26 Main panel, fourth corner or bevel panel 27 crease 28 Main Panel, Second Base Panel 40 Flap 41 crease 50a Cushion flap, first cushion flap 50b Cushion flap, second cushion flap 51 crease 51a crease 51b fold 60 Flap 61 crease 90 Goods carrier 110 Semi-finished products 112 Main Panel, First Base Panel 113 creases 114 Main Panel, First Corner or Bevel Panel 115 creases 116 Main panel, first side panel 117 creases 118 Main Panel, Second Corner or Bevel Panel 119 creases 120 Main panel, upper panel 121 folds 122 Main Panel, Third Corner or Bevel Panel 123 folds 124 Main panel, second side panel 125 creases 126 Main Panel, Fourth Corner or Bevel Panel 127 creases 128 Main Panel, Second Base Panel 129 folds 160 Flap 161 creases 162 Flap 163 creases 170 Flap 171 creases 172 Flap 173 creases 175 creases 190 Goods carriers 210 Semi-finished products 212 Main Panel, First Base Panel 213 creases 214 Main Panel, First Corner or Bevel Panel 215 creases 216 Main panel, first side panel 217 creases 218 Main Panel, Second Corner or Bevel Panel 219 creases 220 Main panel, upper panel 221 crease 222 Main Panel, Third Corner or Bevel Panel 223 crease 224 Main panel, second side panel 225 creases 226 Main Panel, Fourth Corner or Bevel Panel 227 creases 228 Main Panel, Second Base Panel 261 creases 262 Finger Tab 263 creases 270 Flap, tab 271 creases 272 Flap 273a Break, first part 273b Break, second part 273c Break, third part 275 creases 277a Break, first part 277b Break, second part 277c Break, third part 290 Goods carriers A1 recess, cutaway A2 recess, cutaway B Goods B1 Goods B2 Goods B3 Goods B4 Goods F female tab M Male tab NT Conceptual Triangle NT2 Conceptual Triangle R1 recess, first recess R2 recess, second recess T1 Item holding device, item engaging structure T2 Item holding device, item engaging structure T3 Item holding device, item engaging structure T4 Item holding device, item engaging structure T5 Item holding device, item engaging structure T6 Item retention device, item engagement structure T7 Item retention device, item engagement structure T8 Item retention device, item engagement structure T9 Item retention device, item engagement structure T10 Item retention device, item engagement structure T11 Item holding device, item engaging structure T12 Item retention device, item engagement structure

Claims

1. An engagement flap for engaging with an item formed from and hingedly connected to a bottom panel of a carton, the engagement flap being partially defined by a free end, the free end including a section for defining an edge that does not engage with the item and forming a relief, the section including a portion of the free end that is disposed closest to a side panel of the carton in an erected configuration of the carton, and the engagement flap being folded inward more than 90 degrees toward the side panel in the erected configuration of the carton.

2. 2. The engagement flap of claim 1, wherein said segments are selected from the group consisting of straight segments, reentrant segments, and concave angled segments.

3. The engagement flap of claim 1 further comprising an engagement section for engaging a portion of an article.

4. 1. A semi-finished product for forming an article carrier for packaging at least one article, each having a recess, the semi-finished product comprising: a plurality of panels for forming a tubular structure to surround the at least one article; and an article retention device for engaging the recess of one of the at least one article to prevent the article from passing through at least one of the opposing open ends of the tubular structure, the article retention device comprising: a flap made from a first panel of the plurality of panels and hingedly connected to the first panel of the plurality of panels along a first fold line, the flap defining an opening in the first panel of the plurality of panels when folded away from the plane of the first panel of the plurality of panels, the opening including a notch disposed along a free edge of the flap when the flap is in its initial, unfolded position, the free end including a section defining an edge that does not engage the article and forming a relief, the section being disposed adjacent to the notch; the free end comprises a portion extending from the notch comprising the section and an additional section.

5. The semi-finished product of claim 4 , wherein the section is positioned to define a portion of the notch when the flap is in the initial deployed position.

6. The semi-finished product of claim 4 , wherein the section is positioned to extend from the notch.

7. A package comprising a carrier formed from the semifinished product of claim 4 and an article having a recess, wherein the flap further comprises an engagement section for engaging a portion of the article.

8. 5. The semi-finished product of claim 4, wherein the first fold extends at an acute angle of 50 degrees or less relative to the axis of the tube of the tubular structure.

9. 9. The semi-finished product of claim 8, wherein the flap is hingedly connected to fold inwardly of the article carrier toward a second panel of the plurality of panels, and the second panel is hingedly connected to the first panel of the plurality of panels along a second fold line parallel to the axis of the tube.

10. 9. The semi-finished product of claim 8, wherein the flap is at least partially defined by at least one cut in the first panel of the plurality of panels, the at least one cut having at least one curved terminal end directed toward one end of the first fold.

11. The semi-finished product of claim 10 , wherein the at least one curved terminal end is connected to the one end of the first fold.

12. 9. The semi-finished product of claim 8, wherein the acute angle is greater than or equal to 10 degrees and less than or equal to 30 degrees.

13. 5. The semifinished product of claim 4, wherein the flap, when folded about the first fold, defines at least a portion of a machine pull opening for engaging the semifinished product and tightening around the at least one article, the flap being a single member formed from material removed from the machine pull opening.

14. 14. The semi-finished product of claim 13, wherein the machine-pulled opening includes the notch along a periphery of the machine-pulled opening, the notch being located at a position opposite the first fold line.

15. 15. The semifinished product of claim 14, wherein the flap is defined at least in part by a cut in the first panel of the plurality of panels, the notch being positioned to interrupt the cut and divide the cut into two portions, the two portions of the cut each extending from the notch to opposite ends of the first fold line.

16. 5. The semi-finished product of claim 4, wherein the semi-finished product has a longitudinal axis, the first fold line extends at an acute angle to the longitudinal axis, the acute angle being greater than 40 degrees and less than 90 degrees.

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