Article carrier and blank for article carrier

Abstract

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a package, a carrier (90) for packaging one or more articles (B1), and a blank (10) for forming the carrier. The package comprises an article carrier and one or more articles. The carrier comprises a main panel (14) having at least one upper-engaging article device (70A, 72A, 70B, 72B) for receiving and securing each article to the main panel. The carrier further comprises a pair of opposing side panels (18, 20) hingedly connected to the main panel, and end straps (12, 16) hingedly connected between the pair of opposing side panels. The end straps are not directly connected to the main panel. A bridging structure connects the end straps to the main panel, and the bridging structure comprises bridging panels (6, 8).

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to article carriers and blanks for forming article carriers. More particularly, but not exclusively, the present invention relates to carriers of the top-gripping type having one or more openings for receiving and holding articles. [Background technology]

[0002] In the packaging art, it is known to provide cartons for carrying multiple items. Cartons are well known in the art and are convenient for allowing consumers to transport, store, and access a group of items for consumption. Due to cost and environmental considerations, such cartons or carriers should be formed from as little material as possible and should waste as little material as possible when formed. A further consideration is the strength and suitability of the carton to hold and transport heavy weight items. It is desirable that the contents of the carton be securely secured within the carton.

[0003] It is well known to provide top-gripping article carriers having openings in panels of the carrier for receiving and engaging the articles. The carrier may include a keel structure disposed between a first row of articles and a second row of articles.

[0004] For carrying the carton, it is desirable to provide a handle structure that is strong enough to maintain the integrity of the carton during use. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

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

[0006] A first aspect of the present invention provides an article carrier for packaging at least one article. The carrier comprises a main panel having at least one upper-engaging article device for receiving each article and securing the main panel to the respective article. The carrier further comprises a pair of opposing side panels hingedly connected to the main panel and an end strap hingedly connected between the pair of opposing side panels. The end strap has no direct connection to the main panel. A bridging structure connects the end strap to the main panel. The bridging structure comprises a bridging panel.

[0007] Optionally, each pair of opposing side panels is hingedly connected to the main panel by a shoulder panel.

[0008] Each pair of opposing side panels may be hingedly connected to the end straps by a gusset panel.

[0009] The end straps may include a securing panel at each end thereof for securing the end straps in overlapping relation with each of the pair of opposing side panels.

[0010] Optionally, the carrier includes a cutout that separates the end strap from the main panel.

[0011] Optionally, the cutout is one of the elements selected from the following group of elements: a notch, a line of possibility to cut, a recess, a slot, and an opening.

[0012] Optionally, the spanning panel is hingedly connected to the end strap by a first hinge connection.

[0013] Optionally, the spanning panel is hingedly connected to the main panel by a second hinge connection.

[0014] Optionally, the second hinge connection is non-linear.

[0015] Optionally, the second hinge link is shorter than the first hinge link.

[0016] Optionally, the bridging panel is tapered in shape so that its width decreases towards the center of the main panel.

[0017] Optionally, the spanning panel is hinged to a central portion of the main panel.

[0018] Optionally, the bridging panel is hingedly connected to at least one panel forming a keel structure disposed between the first row of upper engaging article devices and the second row of upper engaging article devices.

[0019] Optionally, a bridging panel is hingedly connected to each of a pair of panels forming a keel structure disposed between a first row of upper engaging article devices and a second row of upper engaging article devices.

[0020] Optionally, at least one of the pair of opposing side panels comprises at least one fastening area comprising an adhesive for adhering to an adjacently positioned article.

[0021] Optionally, the spanning panel comprises a fold line extending at least partially between the first hinge connection and the second hinge connection.

[0022] A second aspect of the present invention provides a package comprising an article carrier and a plurality of articles. The carrier comprises a main panel having a plurality of upper-engaging article devices for receiving the respective articles and securing the main panel to the respective articles. The plurality of upper-engaging article devices are arranged in rows, comprising a first row and a second row. The carrier further comprises pairs of opposing side panels hingedly connected to the main panel and end straps hingedly connected between the pairs of opposing side panels. The end straps are not directly connected to the main panel. A bridging structure connects the end straps to the main panel. The bridging structure comprises a bridging panel. The bridging panel is disposed in a void between a first endmost article disposed in the first row of the upper-engaging article devices and a second endmost article disposed in the second row of the upper-engaging article devices. The second endmost article is disposed adjacent to the first endmost article.

[0023] Optionally, the spanning panel is angled relative to the main panel.

[0024] Optionally, the bridging panel is oriented obliquely relative to the main panel and end straps.

[0025] Optionally, at least one of the pair of opposing side panels is attached to at least one adjacently disposed article.

[0026] A third aspect of the present invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a main panel having at least one upper engaging article device for receiving a respective article and securing the main panel to the respective article. The blank further comprises a pair of opposing side panels hingedly connected to the main panel and an end strap hingedly connected between the pair of opposing side panels. The end strap has no direct connection to the main panel. A bridging structure connects the end strap to the main panel. The bridging structure comprises a bridging panel.

[0027] 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 paragraphs, claims, and / or in the following description and drawings may be considered or contemplated independently or in any combination thereof.

[0028] Features or elements described in connection with or with respect to one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments unless the features are incompatible. One or more features or elements from one embodiment may be incorporated or combined in any of the other embodiments disclosed herein, and the features or elements extracted from said one embodiment may be included in addition to or in place of one or more features or elements of said other embodiments.

[0029] Any feature or combination of features of an embodiment disclosed herein may be extracted in isolation from other features of that embodiment. Alternatively, any feature or combination of features of an embodiment may be omitted from that embodiment.

[0030] Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0031] [Figure 1] 1 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a first embodiment; FIG. [Figure 1A] FIG. 2 is a plan view from above of the blank of FIG. 1 showing the bonding locations. [Figure 2] 2 is a top perspective view of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 1; FIG. [Figure 3] 2 is another perspective view from above of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 4] 3 is a perspective view of the carrier of FIG. 2 showing the release device in operation. [Figure 5] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of the carrier of FIG. 2 showing the carrying handle in use. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a second embodiment. [Figure 6A] 7 is an enlarged plan view from above of a portion of the blank of FIG. 6. FIG. [Figure 7A] 2A and 2B are plan and side views of a first pair of articles for use with the blank of FIG. 1; [Figure 7B] 7A and 7B are plan and side views of a pair of second articles for use with the blank of FIG. 6. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0032] Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of packages, blanks, and carriers are disclosed herein. It is understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of ways in which certain aspects of the present invention can be practiced and do not represent a comprehensive listing of all ways in which the present invention may be embodied. As used herein, the word "exemplary" is used broadly to refer to embodiments that serve as illustrations, specimens, models, or patterns. Indeed, it is understood that the packages, blanks, and 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 specific 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 are not intended to be limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to variously use the present invention.

[0033] 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 B1, as shown in Figure 2. The blank 10 forms a secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package. An alternative blank 110 for packaging a group of items B2 is shown in Figure 6.

[0034] In the embodiments detailed herein, terms such as "carton" and "carrier" refer to a container for engaging and carrying an article, such as a primary product container, for non-limiting purposes of illustrating various features of the present invention. It is contemplated that the teachings of the present invention are applicable to a variety of product containers, which may or may not be tapered and / or cylindrical. Exemplary containers include bottles (e.g., metal, glass, or plastic bottles), cans (e.g., aluminum cans), tin cans, pouches, pockets, and the like.

[0035] The blanks 10, 110 are formed from sheets of suitable substrate. As used herein, the term "suitable substrate" is understood to include all types of foldable sheet material, such as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, etc. It should be recognized that one or more blanks may be used, as appropriate to provide, for example, the carrier structure described in more detail below.

[0036] The packaging structures or cartons described herein can be formed from sheet materials, such as paperboard, which can be made from or coated with materials to increase their strength. An example of such a sheet material is tear-resistant NATRALOCK® paperboard by WestRock Company. It should be noted that the tear-resistant material can be provided by two or more layers to help improve the tear resistance of the package. Typically, one side of the sheet material can have different properties than the other side. For example, the side of the sheet material facing the outside of the finished package can be particularly smooth and can have a coating, such as a clay coating or other surface treatment, to provide good printability. On the other hand, the side of the sheet material facing the inside can be provided with a coating, layer, treatment, or otherwise prepared to provide properties such as tear resistance, good adhesive ability, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties.

[0037] In the illustrated embodiment, the blanks 10, 110 are configured to form a carton or carrier 90 for packaging the illustrated items B1, B2 in the illustrated arrangement. In the embodiment shown in FIGS. 1-5, the arrangement is a 2x3 matrix or array, and in the illustrated embodiment, two rows of three items B1 are provided, with the items B1 being beverage cans as shown in FIG. 7A. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 6, the arrangement is a 2x4 matrix or array, and in the illustrated embodiment, two rows of four items B2 are provided, with the items B2 being slim or sleek beverage cans best shown in FIG. 7B. Alternatively, the blanks 10, 110 can be configured to form carriers for packaging other types, numbers, and sizes of items, or / and for packaging items in different arrangements or configurations.

[0038] The embodiment of Figure 6 is configured to accommodate a sleek or slim design beverage can, which may be a 330 ml can. Item B2 is of substantially the same diameter across its entire height. An exemplary item B2 is shown in Figure 7B, where item B2 has a maximum diameter or transverse dimension D BS (Diameter D BS Item B2 has a diameter or transverse dimension D NS (Diameter D NS The closure includes an upper portion or upper closure T having a length of approximately 2.125 inches or approximately 54.8 mm.

[0039] Neck N S can provide an outwardly projecting flange, i.e., with an undercut for engaging the carrier. The top closure T can be attached to the sidewall of article B2 to form a seam or "lip" C that provides the flange F. In some embodiments, the top closure and main body M of article B2 S The difference in diameter between is less than 7 mm, may be less than 5 mm, and optionally is less than 4 mm.

[0040] As used herein, the terms "smart" or "slim" refer to the combination of the upper closure T that engages the carrier 90 and the main body M of the article B2. S Item B2 has little or no variation in its lateral dimension between Item B1 and Item B2. Item B2 is substantially parallel sided or of substantially uniform diameter.

[0041] In the embodiment of Figures 1-5, the beverage can may be a 350 ml can. An exemplary article B1 is shown in Figure 7A, where article B1 has a maximum diameter or transverse dimension D B (Diameter D B Item B1 has a diameter or transverse dimension D N (Diameter D NIn some embodiments, the difference in diameter between the top closure and the main body M of article B1 is greater than 7 mm, may be 10 mm or more, and optionally may be at least 12 mm.

[0042] Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown a blank 10 comprising a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, including a main panel 14 for forming the top wall or mating panel of a carrier 90 (see FIG. 2).

[0043] Blank 10 includes a first side panel 18 hingedly connected to a first side of main panel 14 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 17, and more specifically, first side panel 18 is hingedly connected to a first outer shoulder panel 14E that forms part of main panel 14. Blank 10 includes a second side panel 20 hingedly connected to a second side of main panel 14 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 19, and more specifically, second side panel 20 is hingedly connected to a second outer shoulder panel 14F that forms part of main panel 14.

[0044] The first outer shoulder panel 14E is hingedly connected to the first top panel 14A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 73A. The second outer shoulder panel 14F is hingedly connected to the second top panel 14B by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 73B. The main panel 14 further comprises a first inner shoulder panel 14C and a second inner shoulder panel 14D. The first inner shoulder panel 14C is hingedly connected to the first top panel 14A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 75A. The first inner shoulder panel 14C is hingedly connected to the second inner shoulder panel 14D by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 76. The second inner shoulder panel 14D is hingedly connected to the second top panel 14B by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 75B.

[0045] The first inner shoulder panel 14C and the second inner shoulder panel 14D form a keel structure 14C / 14D that, when viewed in FIG. 1, is disposed between two rows of article B1.

[0046] Each of the first and second top panels 14A, 14B generally includes opposing pairs of article engaging devices 70A, 72A (and 70B, 72B) formed therein along respective fold lines 73A, 75A (and 73B, 75B). The fold lines 73A, 75A hingedly interconnect the respective series of article engaging devices 70A, 72A. The fold lines 73B, 75B hingedly interconnect the respective series of article engaging devices 70B, 72B. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the article engaging devices 70A, 72A, 70B, 72B takes the form of a curved slit. The slits can be considered to intersect a respective one of the fold lines 73A, 75A, 73B, 75B between the first and second top panels 14A, 14B and the inner and outer shoulder panels 14C, 14D, 14E, 14F. In other embodiments, each of the article engaging devices may be formed by a series of curved frangible lines. In other embodiments, the article engaging devices 70A, 72A, 70B, 72B may include an opening for receiving an upper portion of the article B1 held by the carrier 90. It will be understood that many mechanisms exist for clipping, locking, or engaging the top or other portion of the article B1 to hold the articles B1 in an assembled, fixed group so that several articles B1 can be purchased and transported simultaneously and easily. In the illustrated embodiment, the article engaging devices 70A, 72A, 70B, 72B take the form of C-shaped slits that form openings when the top panels 14A, 14B are folded about fold lines 73A, 75A, 73B, 75B, respectively, thereby providing article engaging edges. When opened, the slits are sized similarly to or substantially equal to the periphery of the article B1. Each article engagement device 70A, 72A, 70B, 72B provides a pair of openings for receiving a portion of an article B1.

[0047] In the illustrated embodiment, the fold lines 73A, 75A (and 73B, 75B) that hinge-connect the series of article engagement devices 70A, 72A (and 70B, 72B) are slightly arcuate in shape (in other embodiments, they may be straight or linear) with their convex sides positioned toward the interior of the respective adjacent top panels 14A, 14B.

[0048] The first and second outer shoulder panels 14E, 14F each include one or more second or stress-relieving fold lines 71A, 71B that extend alongside at least a portion of the respective fold lines 73A, 73B. In the illustrated embodiment, the stress-relieving fold lines 71A, 71B are generally arcuate (in other embodiments, they may be linear or straight) with their concave sides disposed toward the interior of the respective adjacent top panels 14A, 14B. The stress-relieving fold lines 71A, 71B may be disposed between two adjacent ones of the cuts 70A, 70B.

[0049] In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second inner shoulder panels 14C, 14D also include one or more second or stress-relieving fold lines 77A, 77B that extend alongside at least a portion of the respective fold lines 75A, 75B. The stress-relieving fold lines 77A, 77B may be generally mirror images of the stress-relieving fold lines 71A, 71B located on the first and second outer shoulder panels 14E, 14F. The stress-relieving fold lines 77A, 77B may facilitate forming the inner shoulder panels 14C, 14D to fit corresponding portions of the neck N of an adjacent article.

[0050] The first and second outer shoulder panels 14E, 14F may each include one or more third or stress relief fold lines 81A, 81C, 83A, 83C.

[0051] A first stress relief fold line 81A may be provided in the first outer shoulder panel 14E and extend from a first edge of the main panel 14 to the adjacently disposed first outer article engagement device 70A. A second stress relief fold line 81C may be provided in the first outer shoulder panel 14E and extend from a second edge of the main panel 14 to the adjacently disposed first outer article engagement device 70A.

[0052] A third stress relief fold line 83A may be provided in the second outer shoulder panel 14F and extend from a first edge of the main panel 14 to the adjacently disposed second outer article engagement device 70B. A fourth stress relief fold line 83C may be provided in the second outer shoulder panel 14F and extend from a second edge of the main panel 14 to the adjacently disposed second outer article engagement device 70B.

[0053] The first and second inner shoulder panels 14C, 14D may each include one or more fourth or stress relief fold lines 81B, 81D, 83B, 83D.

[0054] A fifth stress relief fold line 81B may be provided in the first inner shoulder panel 14C and extend from a first edge of the main panel 14 to the adjacently disposed first inner article engagement device 72A. A sixth stress relief fold line 81D may be provided in the first inner shoulder panel 14C and extend from a second edge of the main panel 14 to the adjacently disposed first inner article engagement device 72A.

[0055] A seventh stress relief fold line 83B may be provided in the second inner shoulder panel 14D and extend from a first edge of the main panel 14 to the adjacently disposed second inner article engagement device 72B. An eighth stress relief fold line 83D may be provided in the second inner shoulder panel 14D and extend from a second edge of the main panel 14 to the adjacently disposed second inner article engagement device 72B.

[0056] The blank 10 may include at least one release or opening device. The blank 10 includes a first release device punched from the first side panel 18. The first release device includes a first removable tab 18A. The first removable tab 18A is defined, at least in part, by a first tear or severable line T1. The first tear line T1 is substantially "U" shaped and includes a pair of terminal ends located at the free lower edge of the first side panel 18.

[0057] The blank 10 includes a second release device punched from the second side panel 20. The second release device includes a second removable tab 20A. The second removable tab 20A is defined at least in part by a second tear or severable line T2. The second tear line T2 is substantially "U" shaped and includes a pair of terminal ends located at the free lower edge of the second side panel 20.

[0058] The blank 10 includes first end straps 26A / 22A / 12 / 22B / 26B and second end straps 30A / 24A / 16 / 24B / 30B.

[0059] The first end strap 26A / 22A / 12 / 22B / 26B comprises the first end panel 12. A first corner panel 22A is hingedly connected to a first edge of the first end panel 12 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 21A. The fold line 21A may comprise multiple fold lines, with the illustrated embodiment comprising three fold lines, which may be parallel to one another. A first fastening panel 26A is hingedly connected to an edge of the first corner panel 22A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 23A. The fold line 23A may comprise multiple fold lines, with the illustrated embodiment comprising two fold lines, which may be parallel to one another. A first gusset panel 28A is hingedly interconnected between the first fastening panel 26A and the first edge of the first side panel 18 by fold lines 25A and 27A. Fold line 27A may comprise multiple fold lines, and the embodiment shown comprises two fold lines, which may be parallel to each other.

[0060] A second corner panel 22B is hingedly connected to the second end of the first end panel 12 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 21B. Fold line 21B may comprise multiple fold lines, with the illustrated embodiment comprising three fold lines, which may be parallel to one another. A second fastening panel 26B is hingedly connected to the end of the second corner panel 22B by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 23B. Fold line 23B may comprise multiple fold lines, with the illustrated embodiment comprising two fold lines, which may be parallel to one another. A second gusset panel 28B is hingedly interconnected between the second fastening panel 26B and the first end of the second side panel 20 by fold lines 25B and 27B. Fold line 27B may comprise multiple fold lines, with the illustrated embodiment comprising two fold lines, which may be parallel to one another.

[0061] First end straps 26A / 22A / 12 / 22B / 26B are partially separate or severable from main panel 14. First end panel 12 is partially separate or severable from main panel 14. Blank 10 may include at least two cuts or frangible lines for cutting that separate first end panel 12 from main panel 14.

[0062] The first corner panel 22A is separated from the main panel 14. The blank 10 may include an opening that separates, at least in part, the first corner panel 22A from the main panel 14. The first corner panel 22A may be separated, at least in part, from the main panel 14 by a cut or frangible line.

[0063] The second corner panel 22B is separated from the main panel 14. The blank 10 includes an opening that separates, at least in part, the second corner panel 22B from the main panel 14. The second corner panel 22B can be separated, at least in part, from the main panel 14 by a cut or frangible line.

[0064] The first end straps 26A / 22A / 12 / 22B / 26B form the first end wall of the carrier 90.

[0065] The blank comprises second end straps 30A / 24A / 16 / 24B / 30B. The second end straps 30A / 24A / 16 / 24B / 30B comprise the second end panel 16. A third corner panel 24A is hingedly connected to a first end of the second end panel 16 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 29A. The fold line 29A may comprise multiple fold lines, with the illustrated embodiment comprising three fold lines, which may be parallel to one another. A third fastening panel 30A is hingedly connected to an end of the third corner panel 24A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 31A. The fold line 31A may comprise multiple fold lines, with the illustrated embodiment comprising two fold lines, which may be parallel to one another. A third gusset panel 32A is hingedly interconnected between the third fixed panel 30A and the second end of the first side panel 18 by fold lines 33A, 35A. Fold line 35A may comprise multiple fold lines, and the illustrated embodiment comprises two fold lines, which may be parallel to each other.

[0066] A fourth corner panel 24B is hingedly connected to the second edge of the second end panel 16 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 29B. Fold line 29B may comprise multiple fold lines, with the illustrated embodiment comprising three fold lines, which may be parallel to one another. A fourth fastening panel 30B is hingedly connected to the edge of the fourth corner panel 24B by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 31B. Fold line 31B may comprise multiple fold lines, with the illustrated embodiment comprising two fold lines, which may be parallel to one another. A fourth gusset panel 32B is hingedly interconnected between the fourth fastening panel 30B and the second edge of the second side panel 20 by fold lines 33B, 35B. Fold line 35B may comprise multiple fold lines, with the illustrated embodiment comprising two fold lines, which may be parallel to one another.

[0067] Second end strap 30A / 24A / 16 / 24B / 30B is partially separate or severable from main panel 14. Second end panel 16 is partially separate or severable from main panel 14. Blank 10 may include at least two cuts or frangible lines for cutting that separate second end panel 16 from main panel 14.

[0068] The third corner panel 24A is separated from the main panel 14. The blank 10 includes an opening that separates, at least in part, the third corner panel 24A from the main panel 14. The third corner panel 24A can be separated, at least in part, from the main panel 14 by a cut or frangible line.

[0069] The fourth corner panel 24B is separated from the main panel 14. The blank 10 includes an opening that separates, at least in part, the fourth corner panel 24B from the main panel 14. The fourth corner panel 24B can be separated, at least in part, from the main panel 14 by a cut or frangible line.

[0070] The second end straps 30A / 24A / 16 / 24B / 30B form the second end wall of the carrier 90.

[0071] A portion of the first end strap 26A / 22A / 12 / 22B / 26B is joined to the main panel 14. The first end panel 12 is joined to a keel structure 14C / 14D formed by the first inner shoulder panel 14C and the second inner shoulder panel 14D.

[0072] A first bridging panel 6 joins the first end panel 12 at a first end of the main panel 14 to each of the first and second inner shoulder panels 14C, 14D.

[0073] The first bridging panel 6 is hingedly connected along its upper edge to a first end panel 12 by a first hinge connection in the form of a fold line 13 .

[0074] The first bridging panel 6 is hingedly connected to the first inner shoulder panel 14C by a second hinge connection in the form of fold line 4. The first bridging panel 6 is hingedly connected to the second inner shoulder panel 14D by a third hinge connection in the form of fold line 5.

[0075] The second hinge connection may be positioned divergently relative to the third hinge connection to provide a "V" shaped fold line 4 / 5.

[0076] The first bridging panel 6 is generally tapered in shape and has a first end defined by a first hinge connection and a second end defined by second and third hinge connections, the first end of the first bridging panel 6 being wider than the second end.

[0077] A second bridging panel 8 joins the second end panel 16 at the second end of the main panel 14 to each of the first and second inner shoulder panels 14C, 14D.

[0078] The second bridging panel 8 is hingedly connected along its upper edge to a second end panel 16 by a fourth hinge connection in the form of a fold line 15 .

[0079] The second bridging panel 8 is hingedly connected to the first inner shoulder panel 14C by a fifth hinge connection in the form of fold line 7. The second bridging panel 8 is hingedly connected to the second inner shoulder panel 14D by a sixth hinge connection in the form of fold line 9.

[0080] The second hinge connection may be arranged to diverge relative to the third hinge connection to provide a "V" shaped fold line 7 / 9.

[0081] The second bridging panel 8 is generally tapered in shape with a first end defined by the fourth hinge connection and a second end defined by the fifth and sixth hinge connections, the first end of the second bridging panel 8 being wider than the second end.

[0082] The first and second side panels 18, 20 may each include an article attachment location G2 (see FIG. 1A ) on their inner surfaces, at which the first and second side panels 18, 20 are adhesively secured to an adjacently positioned article B1. The article attachment locations G2 may be provided on the inner surfaces of the first and second removable tabs 18A, 20A. Removal of the first and second removable tabs 18A, 20A may facilitate release of the adjacent article B1 and remove the adhesive connection between the carrier 90 and the article B1.

[0083] Each of the first fastening panel 26A, the second fastening panel 26B, the third fastening panel 30A, and the fourth fastening panel 30B can have an article attachment location G2 (see FIG. 1A) on its inner surface, at which the respective fastening panels 26A, 26B, 30A, 30B are adhesively attached to the endmost article B1.

[0084] The first side panel 18 and the second side panel 20 may each have a pair of panel bonding locations G1 (see FIG. 1A) on their inner surfaces, at which the respective fastening panels 26A, 26B, 30A, 30B are adhesively secured.

[0085] Each of the first gusset panel 28A, second gusset panel 28B, third gusset panel 32A, and fourth gusset panel 32B may include cutouts in the form of recesses R along their outer edges. The recesses R allow the outer surfaces of the first fastening panel 26A, second fastening panel 26B, third fastening panel 30A, and fourth fastening panel 30B to be in facing relationship with and fastened to the inner surfaces of one of the first and second side panels 18, 20, respectively. Figure 1A shows the position of the first and second gusset panels 28A, 28B relative to the first and second side panels 18, 20 in the assembled state, with the cutouts exposing panel bond locations G1 on the first and second side panels 18, 20. In the assembled carrier 90, the first securing panel 26A, the second securing panel 26B, the third securing panel 30A, and the fourth securing panel 30B are folded into a facing relationship with a respective one of the first and second side panels 18, 20 and a respective one of the first, second, third, and fourth gusset panels 28A, 28B, 32A, 32B. The second securing panel 26B is shown in FIG. 1A folded into a facing relationship with the second gusset panel 28B. The second side panel 20 may be directly adhered to the second securing panel 26B.

[0086] Each of the first fastening panel 26A, the second fastening panel 26B, the third fastening panel 30A, and the fourth fastening panel 30B may include an article attachment location G2 on its inner surface. The fastening panels 26A, 26B, 30A, 30B are secured to a respective article B1 when folded between the article B1 and a respective one of the first side panel 18 and the second side panel 20.

[0087] The fastening panels 26A, 26B, 30A, 30B may be secured to the endmost article B1 while the first and second side panels 18, 20 may be secured to the middle or inner article B1.

[0088] Panel attachment location G1 facilitates securing end straps 26A / 22A / 12 / 22B / 26B, 30A / 24A / 16 / 24B / 30B to first and second side panels 18, 20. Article attachment location G2 facilitates securing carrier 90 to article B.

[0089] The cutouts, recesses R facilitate securing the fixed panels 26A, 26B, 30A, 30B and gusset panels 28A, 28B, 32A, 32B in facing relation to the first and second side panels 18,20.

[0090] 2 shows a carrier 90 formed from a blank 10 and engaged with a group of articles B1. Each of the article engagement devices 70A, 72A, 70B, 72B of the blank 10 engages the top edges of the articles B1 in the group. A portion of the articles B1 passes through and engages with the main panel 14. The side panels 18, 20 are folded around the sides of the group of articles B1, and the end straps 26A / 22A / 12 / 22B / 26B, 30A / 24A / 16 / 24B / 30B are folded around the edges of the group of articles B1.

[0091] The bridging panels 6, 8 connect the end straps 26A / 22A / 12 / 22B / 26B, 30A / 24A / 16 / 24B / 30B to the main panel 14. The bridging panels 6, 8 can reinforce or increase the strength of the carrier 90, which can be beneficial when the carrier 90 is engaged by a user U. The user U can grasp one of the first and second end straps 26A / 22A / 12 / 22B / 26B, 30A / 24A / 16 / 24B / 30B to carry the carrier 90. When carried by the user U, a load force can be transferred or distributed to the main panel 14, specifically to the keel structures 14C / 14D.

[0092] To release article B1 from carrier 90, removable tabs 18A, 20A of the release device can be separated from carrier 90. This can remove or sever the adhesive bond between carrier 90 and adjacent article B1. Removing removable tabs 18A, 20A can also reduce tension on side panels 18, 20, facilitating removal of article B1 from carrier 90.

[0093] Referring now to Figure 6, an additional embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In the second illustrated embodiment, like reference numerals are used to designate like parts where possible, but with the addition of the prefix "100" to indicate that the feature belongs to the second embodiment. Because the additional embodiment shares many common features with the first embodiment, only the differences from the embodiment shown in Figures 1-5 will be described in detail.

[0094] FIG. 6 illustrates a second embodiment, showing a blank 110 comprising a plurality of panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, including a main panel 114 for forming the top wall or mating panel of a carrier (not shown).

[0095] The blank 110 includes a first side panel 118 hingedly connected to a first side of the main panel 114 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 117, and more specifically, the main panel 114 is hingedly connected to a first outer shoulder panel 118S that forms part of the first side panel 118. The blank 110 includes a second side panel 120 hingedly connected to a second side of the main panel 114 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 119, and more specifically, the main panel 114 is hingedly connected to a second outer shoulder panel 120S that forms part of the second side panel 120.

[0096] The first outer shoulder panel 118S is hingedly connected to the first side panel 118 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 117A. The second outer shoulder panel 120S is hingedly connected to the second side panel 120 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 119A.

[0097] Blank 10 includes first end straps 126A / 122A / 112 / 122B / 126B and second end straps 130A / 124A / 116 / 124B / 130B that are substantially similar in construction to the end straps of the embodiment of Figure 1. Each of end straps 126A / 122A / 112 / 122B / 126B, 130A / 124A / 116 / 124B / 130B includes a plurality of panels 126A, 122A, 112, 122B, 126B, 130A, 124A, 116, 124B, 130B, including first and second end panels 112, 116. The plurality of panels 126A, 122A, 112, 122B, 126B, 130A, 124A, 116, 124B, 130B forming the end straps 126A / 122A / 112 / 122B / 126B, 130A / 124A / 116 / 124B / 130B may be collectively referred to as end panels. In contrast to the embodiment of FIG. 1, the fold lines 121A, 121B, 123A, 123B, 129A, 129B, 132A, 131B hingedly connecting the plurality of panels 126A, 122A, 112, 122B, 126B, 130A, 124A, 116, 124B, 130B are provided by a single fold line.

[0098] The main panel 114 may include at least one item retention structure RT1, RT2. In the embodiment of Figure 6, the main panel 114 includes a plurality of item retention structures RT1, RT2, specifically eight item retention structures RT1, RT2 arranged in a 4x2 matrix or array. The main panel 114 includes two columns of item retention structures RT1, RT2, each column including four item retention structures RT1, RT2. The main panel 114 includes four rows of item retention structures RT1, RT2, each row including two item retention structures RT1, RT2. Each of the item retention structures RT1, RT2 may include openings A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, and A8.

[0099] The blank 110 includes four first item retention structures RT1. The first item retention structures RT1 are positioned adjacent to the edges of the main panel 114. The blank 110 includes four second item retention structures RT2. The second item retention structures RT2 are positioned between a first pair of first item retention structures RT1 positioned adjacent to the first edge of the main panel 114 and a second pair of first item retention structures RT1 positioned adjacent to the second edge of the main panel 114. The second item retention structures RT2 are also referred to herein as intermediate item retention structures RT2. The first item retention structures RT1 are also referred to herein as end item retention structures RT1.

[0100] The article holding structures RT1, RT2 in the same column are spaced apart from each other by a distance d3. Adjacent article holding structures RT1, RT2 are arranged close to each other.

[0101] The item holding structures RT1, RT2 in the same row are spaced apart from each other by a distance d4, and adjacent item holding structures RT1, RT2 are positioned closely adjacent to each other.

[0102] Each of the first item retaining structures RT1 is substantially similar in structure and will therefore be described in detail with reference to the first of the first item retaining structures RT1 positioned adjacent the first end of the blank 110 as shown in FIG. 6.

[0103] The first item retaining structure RT1 includes an item receiving opening defined in part by an opening A1.

[0104] The first item retaining structure RT1 includes a plurality of teeth 146, 144 arranged about the opening A1. The plurality of teeth 146, 144, or at least their free edges, may define or approximate a notional circle having a diameter d1.

[0105] The openings A1, A2, A7, and A8 have a width dimension d1. The article receiving openings have a width or diameter d2. The diameter d2 of the article receiving openings is greater than the notional circle or diameter d1 of the openings A1, A2, A7, and A8.

[0106] The plurality of tines 146, 144 are hingedly connected to the main panel 114 by fold lines. The fold lines are defined by a plurality of cuts 142, 154. The plurality of cuts 142, 154 may define a circle or approximate a circle.

[0107] The first item retaining structure RT1 includes a plurality of first teeth or complete teeth 146 arranged about the opening A1. Each of the plurality of first teeth 146 includes an engagement edge E1 opposite the hinge edge. The engagement edge E1 is defined by a linear portion of the cut that defines the opening A1. Each engagement edge E1 defines a portion of a hexagon. The illustrated embodiment includes thirteen first teeth 146 that together define a substantial portion of a hexagon. Each tooth 146 includes a pair of side edges that extend radially outward from a respective vertex of the hexagon, that is, defined by cuts 148, 140 that extend from respective vertices between adjacent pairs of linear portions of the cut that define the opening A1. The cuts 148, 140 are arranged divergently relative to one another and define an angle therebetween, which may be approximately 22.5°.

[0108] The first item retaining structure RT1 comprises a plurality of first peripheral cuts 154. Each of the plurality of first peripheral cuts 154 is aligned with one of the radial cuts 148, 140 such that the radial cuts 148, 140, or a notional extension thereof, bisects a respective one of the plurality of first peripheral cuts 154.

[0109] Each of the plurality of first peripheral cuts 154 is spaced from one of the radial cuts 148, 140 that bisects the first peripheral cut 154 so as to define a connecting notch or bridge portion between pairs of adjacently disposed teeth 146, 144.

[0110] Each of the plurality of first peripheral cuts 154 may be linear in shape.

[0111] The first item retaining structure RT1 includes a plurality of second peripheral cuts 142. Each of the plurality of second peripheral cuts 142 is disposed between a pair of the plurality of first peripheral cuts 154 and is spaced apart from the first peripheral cuts 154 to define a pair of interlocking notches or bridge portions between each tooth 146, 144 and the main panel 114. The pair of interlocking notches or bridge portions provides a hinged or foldable connection between each tooth 146, 144 and the main panel 114.

[0112] Each of the plurality of second peripheral cuts 142 may be linear in shape.

[0113] In alternative embodiments, each of the plurality of first peripheral cuts 154 may be arcuate or curved. The first peripheral cuts 154 may have a radius of curvature equal to half the diameter d2 of the article receiving opening. The first peripheral cuts 154 may have a radius of curvature greater than half the diameter d1 of the openings A1, A2, A7, and A8.

[0114] In alternative embodiments, each of the plurality of second peripheral cuts 142 may be arcuate or curved. The second peripheral cuts 142 may have a radius of curvature equal to half the diameter d2 of the article receiving opening. The second peripheral cuts 142 may have a radius of curvature greater than half the diameter d1 of the openings A1, A2, A7, and A8.

[0115] When the first peripheral cut 154 and the second peripheral cut 142 are linear, they can be considered to define a portion of a circle of infinite radius.

[0116] In the illustrated embodiment, the radius of curvature of each of the plurality of second peripheral cuts 142 is equal to the radius of curvature of each of the plurality of first peripheral cuts 154, but may be different in other embodiments.

[0117] Optionally, the plurality of teeth 146, 144 are interrupted by a first recess or cutout 156B. The first recess 156B lies on a first notional line yy. The first notional line yy extends radially from the center C of the openings A1, A2, A7, and A8 and passes through the center of the first recess 156B. The first notional line yy may extend across the grain of the blank 110. The first notional line yy is oriented perpendicular to the grain direction. The first notional line yy extends in the longitudinal direction of the blank 110.

[0118] Optionally, the plurality of teeth 146, 144 are interrupted by second recesses or cutouts 156C. The second recesses 156C lie on a second notional line xx. The second notional line xx extends radially from the center C of the openings A1, A2, A7, A8 and passes through the center of the second recesses 156C. The second notional line xx may extend along the grain of the blank 110. The second notional line xx is oriented parallel to the grain direction. The second notional line xx extends across the blank 110 or in a lateral direction of the blank 110.

[0119] The first recess 156B is dimensioned to occupy a first arc defined by a first smaller sector. The first smaller sector is defined in part by a notional line of the first sector extending radially from a center C of the notional circle and passing through a lateral edge of a first partial tooth 144 disposed adjacent a first side of the first recess 156B, and in part by a notional line of a second sector extending radially from the center C of the notional circle and passing through a lateral edge of a second partial tooth 144 disposed adjacent a second, opposite side of the first recess 156B. The notional lines of the first and second sectors define a second angle therebetween. The second angle can be in the range of 35° to 50° and can be approximately 45°.

[0120] The second recess 156C is dimensioned to occupy a second arc defined by a second, smaller sector. The second, smaller sector is defined in part by a notional line of the third sector extending radially from the center C of the notional circle and passing through a lateral edge of the third partial tooth 144 located adjacent to a first side of the second recess 156C, and in part by a notional line of the fourth sector extending radially from the center C of the notional circle and passing through a lateral edge of the fourth partial tooth 144 located adjacent to a second, opposite side of the second recess 156C. The notional lines of the third and fourth sectors define a third angle therebetween. The third angle can be in the range of 35° to 50° and can be approximately 45°.

[0121] The notional line of the first and third sectors defines a large or first tooth sector, and the first tooth sector defines a third arc, which is occupied by the teeth 146, 144. That is, the teeth 146, 144 are arranged about the third arc in a peripheral region of the first opening A1.

[0122] The notional line of the second and fourth sectors defines a third smaller sector or second tooth sector, which defines a fourth arc, which is occupied by the teeth 146, 144. That is, the teeth 146, 144 are arranged about the fourth arc in the peripheral region of the first opening A1.

[0123] Each of the second item holding structures RT2 is substantially similar in structure and will therefore be described in detail with reference to the first of the second item holding structures RT2 positioned adjacent to the first of the first item holding structures RT1 as shown in FIG. 6.

[0124] The second article retaining structure RT2 includes an article receiving opening defined in part by second openings A3, A4, A5, A6.

[0125] The second item retaining structure RT2 includes a plurality of teeth 146, 144 arranged about the second opening A3. The plurality of teeth 146, 144, or at least their free edges, may define or approximate a second notional circle.

[0126] The plurality of tines 146, 144 are hingedly connected to the main panel 114 by fold lines. The fold lines may be defined by a plurality of cuts 142, 154. The plurality of cuts 142, 154 may define or approximate a circle.

[0127] The second opening A3 includes a plurality of first teeth or complete teeth 146 disposed about the second opening A3. Each of the plurality of first teeth 146 includes an engagement edge E1 opposite a hinge edge. The engagement edge E1 is defined by a linear portion of the cut that defines the second opening A3. Each engagement edge E1 defines a portion or side of a hexagon. The illustrated embodiment includes ten first teeth 146 that together define a substantial portion of a hexagon. Each tooth 146 includes a pair of side edges that extend radially outward from a respective vertex of the hexagon, i.e., defined by cuts 148, 140 extending from respective vertices between adjacent pairs of linear portions of the cut that define the second opening A3. The cuts 148, 140 are disposed divergently relative to one another and define an angle therebetween, which may be approximately 22.5°.

[0128] The second item retaining structure RT2 comprises a plurality of first peripheral cuts 154. Each of the plurality of first peripheral cuts 154 is aligned with one of the radial cuts 148, 140 such that the radial cuts 148, 140, or a notional extension thereof, bisects a respective one of the plurality of first peripheral cuts 154.

[0129] Each of the plurality of first peripheral cuts 154 is spaced from one of the radial cuts 148, 140 that bisects the first peripheral cut 154 so as to define a connecting notch or bridge portion between a pair of adjacently disposed teeth 146, 144. The connecting notch or bridge portion is located proximate to the root of the tooth 146.

[0130] Each of the plurality of first peripheral cuts 154 may be linear in shape.

[0131] The second item retaining structure RT2 includes a plurality of second peripheral cuts 142. Each of the plurality of second peripheral cuts 142 is disposed between a pair of the plurality of first peripheral cuts 154 and is spaced apart from the first peripheral cuts 154 to define an interlocking notch or bridge portion between each tooth 146, 144 and the main panel 114. The pair of interlocking notches or bridge portions provides a hinged or foldable connection between each tooth 146, 144 and the main panel 114.

[0132] Each of the plurality of second peripheral cuts 142 may be linear in shape.

[0133] The plurality of teeth 146, 144 are interrupted by a first recess or cutout 156B, a second recess or cutout 156C, and a third recess or cutout 156A. The first recess 156B and the third recess 156A each lie on a first notional line yy. The first notional line yy extends radially from the center C of the second opening A3 and passes through the center of each of the first recess 156B and the third recess 156A.

[0134] The first recess 156B is dimensioned to occupy a first arc defined by a first smaller sector. The first smaller sector is defined in part by a notional line of the first sector extending radially from a center C of the notional circle and passing through a lateral edge of a first partial tooth 144 disposed adjacent a first side of the first recess 156B, and in part by a notional line of a second sector extending radially from the center of the notional circle and passing through a lateral edge of a second partial tooth 144 disposed adjacent a second, opposite side of the first recess 156B. The notional lines of the first and second sectors define an angle therebetween. The angle can range from 35° to 50° and can be approximately 45°.

[0135] The second recess 156C is dimensioned to occupy a second arc defined by a second, smaller sector. The second, smaller sector is defined in part by a notional line of the third sector extending radially from the center C of the notional circle and passing through a lateral edge of the third partial tooth 144 located adjacent to a first side of the second recess 156C, and in part by a notional line of the fourth sector extending radially from the center C of the notional circle and passing through a lateral edge of the fourth partial tooth 144 located adjacent to a second, opposite side of the second recess 156C. The notional lines of the third and fourth sectors define an angle therebetween. The third angle can be in the range of 35° to 50° and may be approximately 45°.

[0136] The third recess 156A is dimensioned to occupy a third arc defined by a third smaller sector. The third smaller sector is defined in part by a notional line of the fifth sector extending radially from the center C of the notional circle and passing through a lateral edge of the fifth partial tooth 144 located adjacent to a first side of the third recess 156A, and in part by a notional line of the sixth sector extending radially from the center C of the notional circle and passing through a lateral edge of the sixth partial tooth 144 located adjacent to a second, opposite side of the third recess 156A. The notional lines of the fifth and sixth sectors define an angle therebetween. The third angle can be in the range of 35° to 50° and can be approximately 45°.

[0137] The notional line of the first and fifth sectors defines a large or first tooth sector, which in turn defines a fourth arc, which is occupied by the teeth 146, 144. That is, the teeth 146, 144 are arranged about the fourth arc in the peripheral region of the second opening A3.

[0138] The notional line of the second and fourth sectors defines a third smaller sector or second tooth sector, which in turn defines a fifth arc, which is occupied by the teeth 146, 144. That is, the teeth 146, 144 are arranged about the fifth arc in the peripheral region of the second opening A3.

[0139] The notional line of the third and sixth sectors defines a fourth smaller sector or third tooth sector, which in turn defines a sixth arc, which is occupied by the teeth 146, 144. That is, the teeth 146, 144 are arranged about the sixth arc in the peripheral region of the second opening A3.

[0140] The first recess 156B and the third recess 156A are opposed to each other in the diametrical direction.

[0141] The second recess is oriented or positioned substantially perpendicular to the first recess 156B and the third recess 156A.

[0142] The centers of the first recess 156B and the third recess 156A of the second article holding structure RT2 are on the same line as the center of the first recess 156B of the first article holding structure RT1.

[0143] The third recess 156A of the second article holding structure RT2 is disposed adjacent to the first recess 156B of the first article holding structure RT1 and is oriented opposite to the first recess 156B.

[0144] Each of the second recesses 156C of the second item holding structure RT2 is positioned adjacent to the second recess of the adjacently positioned second item holding structure RT2 and is oriented opposite to that second recess.

[0145] Each of the second recesses 156C of the first item holding structure RT1 is positioned adjacent to the second recess of the adjacently positioned first item holding structure RT1 and is oriented opposite to that second recess.

[0146] The grain of the material forming the blank 110 may be positioned so as to be tangent to the center of the first recess 156B and the third recess 156A of the second item retaining structure RT2. The grain of the material forming the blank 110 may be positioned so as to be tangent to the center of the first recess 156B of the first item retaining structure RT1. In this approach, for a tear to propagate between the first opening A1 and the second opening A3, the tear must propagate across the grain of the blank 110. In this approach, the blank 110 is positioned to provide maximum resistance to tear propagation between the first opening A1 and the second opening A3.

[0147] The elimination of teeth 146 has been found to reduce the likelihood of tear propagation when packaging article B2, for example, with a sleek or slim design, by providing recesses 156B, 156C, 156A where two adjacent openings A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8 are closely spaced. This beneficial advantage may be the result of the elimination of radial cuts 148, 140 in the regions of blank 110 where openings A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8 are closely spaced.

[0148] In one example, the spacing d3, d4 between adjacent item retaining structures RT1, RT2 may be approximately 0.186 inches (4.7 mm). The notional circle diameter d1, or diameter d1 of openings A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8, may be approximately 1.771 inches (44.9 mm). The item receiving opening diameter d2 may be approximately 2.098 inches (53.2 mm). The tooth 146 may have a radial dimension or height (measured between the free or engaging edge E1 and the hinge connection to the main panel 114) of approximately 0.1625 inches (4.15 mm). The radial dimension of the tooth 146 is given by 1 / 2(d2-d1).

[0149] The article receiving openings are positioned adjacent to one another.

[0150] The diameter d2 of the article receiving openings is approximately 11 times larger than the spacing between the article receiving openings.

[0151] The spacing d3, d4 between the item receiving openings may be less than half the diameter d2 of the item receiving openings. The spacing d3, d4 may be less than one-quarter or one-fifth the diameter d2 of the item receiving openings. In some embodiments, the spacing d3, d4 between the item receiving openings may be less than one-eighth or one-tenth the diameter d2 of the item receiving openings.

[0152] The spacing d3, d4 between the article receiving openings may be less than twice the radial dimension or height of the teeth 146. In some embodiments, the spacing d3, d4 between the article receiving openings may be less than 50% of, but greater than, the radial dimension or height of the teeth 146. In some embodiments, the spacing d3, d4 between the article receiving openings may be less than 20% of, but greater than, the radial dimension or height of the teeth 146.

[0153] 6A shows an enlarged view of a portion of the blank 110, clearly showing that the item retention structures RT1, RT2 (second item retention structure RT2 is shown) are interleaved between the main panel 114 and the shoulder panels 118S, 120S at fold lines 117, 119. In an alternative embodiment, the item retention structures RT1, RT2 can be interleaved with hinged connections between the main panel 114 and the side panels.

[0154] An outermost tooth or first complete tooth 146A is punched partially out of the first shoulder panel 118S. The outermost tooth 146A is hingedly connected to the first shoulder panel 118S. The notches 142, 154 associated with the outermost tooth 146A are defined in the first shoulder panel 118S. Both of the pair of interlocking notches or bridge portions that hinge the first complete tooth 146A to the blank 110 are located in the first shoulder panel 118S.

[0155] The first complete tooth 146A is on the second notional line xx.

[0156] A second complete tooth 146B is disposed adjacent to the first complete tooth 146A on an opposite side of the first complete tooth 146A. The second complete tooth 146B is partially stamped out of the first shoulder panel 118S. The second complete tooth 146B is partially hingedly connected to the first shoulder panel 118S. The second complete tooth 146B is partially hingedly connected to the main panel 114. One of a pair of first peripheral cuts 154 associated with each second complete tooth 146B is defined in the first shoulder panel 118S. The other of the pair of first peripheral cuts 154 associated with each second complete tooth 146B is defined in the main panel 114. The second peripheral cuts 142 associated with each second complete tooth 146B are partially defined in the first shoulder panel 118S and partially defined in the main panel 114. One of the pair of interlocking notches or bridge portions hingeably connecting each second complete tooth 146B to the blank 110 is located on the first shoulder panel 118S. The other of the pair of interlocking notches or bridge portions hingeably connecting each second complete tooth 146B to the blank 110 is located on the main panel 114.

[0157] A third complete tooth 146C is disposed adjacent each second complete tooth 146B. The third complete tooth 146C is stamped entirely out of the main panel 114. The hinge connection between the third complete tooth 146C and the main panel 114 is defined entirely within the main panel 114.

[0158] The first complete tooth 146A has a larger radial dimension than the third complete tooth 146C. The first complete tooth 146A is taller than either of the third complete teeth 146C.

[0159] Each of the second complete teeth 146B has a tapered shape. A first side edge of the second complete tooth 146B has a radial dimension equal to the radial dimension of the first complete tooth 146A at the position of abutment with the first complete tooth 146A. A second opposite side edge of the second complete tooth 146B has a radial dimension equal to the radial dimension of a respective one of the third complete teeth 146C at the position of abutment with the third complete tooth 146C.

[0160] The cuts 140, 148 separating the first complete tooth 146A from each of the second complete teeth 146B are longer than the cuts separating each second complete tooth 146B from a respective one of the third complete teeth 146C.

[0161] The blank 110 includes a bridging structure that connects a portion of the first end straps 126A / 122A / 112 / 122B / 126B to the main panel 114. The first end panel 112 is connected to a central portion of the main panel 114.

[0162] A first bridging panel 106 connects the first end panel 112 to a first end of the main panel 114. The first bridging panel 106 is stamped out of, or taken from, the material forming the main panel 114. The first bridging panel 106 is stamped out of a portion of the main panel 114 proximate the first end and is positioned substantially between a pair of first item retaining structures RT1 positioned adjacent the first ends of the main panels 114.

[0163] The first bridging panel 106 is hingedly connected along its upper edge to a first end panel 112 by a first hinge connection in the form of a fold line 113 .

[0164] The first bridging panel 106 is hingedly connected to the main panel 114 by a second hinged connection in the form of a fold line 160. The second hinged fold line 160 may be non-linear in shape, for example, but not limited to, being "V" shaped, arcuate, or curved.

[0165] The first bridging panel 106 may include a fold line or hinge 162 that extends longitudinally across at least a portion of the first bridging panel 106. The fold line or hinge 162 may bisect the first bridging panel 106. The fold line or hinge 162 may cause the first bridging panel 106 to assume a valley shape or a pointed shape.

[0166] The first bridging panel 106 is generally tapered in shape and has a first end defined by a first hinge connection and a second end defined by a second hinge connection, with the first end of the first bridging panel 106 being wider than the second end.

[0167] The blank 110 includes a bridging structure that connects a portion of the second end straps 130A / 124A / 116 / 124B / 130B to the main panel 114. The second end panel 116 is connected to a central portion of the main panel 114.

[0168] A second bridging panel 108 connects the second end panel 116 to the second end of the main panel 114. The second bridging panel 108 is punched out of, i.e., taken from, the material forming the main panel 114. The second bridging panel 108 is punched out of a portion of the main panel 114 proximate the second end and is positioned substantially between the pair of first item retaining structures RT1 positioned adjacent the second end of the main panel 114.

[0169] The second bridge panel 108 is hingedly connected along its upper edge to a second end panel 116 by a third hinge connection in the form of a fold line 115 .

[0170] The second bridging panel 108 is hingedly connected to the main panel 114 by a fourth hinge connection in the form of a fold line 164. The fourth hinge fold line 164 may be non-linear in shape, for example, but not limited to, being "V" shaped, arcuate, or curved.

[0171] The second bridging panel 108 may include a fold line or hinge 166 that extends longitudinally across at least a portion of the second bridging panel 108. The fold line or hinge 166 may bisect the second bridging panel 108. The fold line or hinge 166 may cause the second bridging panel 108 to assume a valley shape or a pointed shape.

[0172] The second bridging panel 108 is generally tapered in shape and has a first end defined by a third hinge connection and a second end defined by a fourth hinge connection, the first end of the second bridging panel 108 being wider than the second end.

[0173] The blank 10; 110 comprises at least a paperboard substrate. The paperboard substrate material may be selected from any conventional paperboard, for example, ranging in weight from about 10 pt. upwards, preferably from about 16 pt. to about 28 pt. (0.028" / about 0.7 mm). Examples of such substrates are 18-point (pt.) SBS cardboard (a sulfate cardboard with a solid bleaching on one side, under the trade name PrintKote®) manufactured by WestRock® Company, or CNK® cardboard (Coated Natural Kraft® - an unbleached kraft cardboard with a clay coating on one side, under the trade name CarrierKote™). The paperboard substrate may be bleached or unbleached cardboard. The cardboard may be coated on at least one side, optionally opposite the lamination, with a conventional coating selected for compatibility with the printing method and cardboard composition.

[0174] The blank 10; 110 may include a tear-resistant layer laminated to the paperboard layer. The blank 10; 110 optionally includes an adhesive layer between the paperboard substrate and the tear-resistant layer. The tear-resistant layer may be disposed over the uncoated side of the paperboard substrate and may be formed from a polymeric material and secured to the substrate. The tear-resistant layer imparts toughness to the laminate structure. Suitable tear-resistant materials may include, but are not limited to, tear-resistant laminate sheet materials such as NATRALOCK®, which may include layers of biaxially oriented polyester, oriented nylon, cross-laminated polyolefin, or n-axis oriented film such as MYLAR®, which is a high-density polyolefin. The orientation and cross-laminated structure of these materials contribute to their tear-resistant properties. Tear resistance may also be due to the chemistry of the tear-resistant material, such as extruded metallocene-catalyzed polyethylene (mPE).

[0175] Alternatively, the tear-resistant layer may be a layer of linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE). In embodiments where linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) or mPE is used, it is not necessary to incorporate an adhesive layer. Other suitable materials with a high degree of tear resistance may also be used.

[0176] The adhesive layer may be formed from a polyolefin material such as low density polyethylene (LDPE). The adhesive layer may be disposed between the substrate and the tear-resistant layer to secure the tear-resistant layer to the substrate.

[0177] The present disclosure provides a top-engaging carrier 90 having article retaining structures RT1, RT2 or article top-engaging devices 70A, 70B, 72A, 72B for engaging articles B1, B2.

[0178] The carrier 90 includes a main panel 14, 114 having one or more article retaining structures RT1, RT2 or article upper engaging devices 70A, 70B, 72A, 72B for receiving respective articles B1, B2 and securing the main panel 14, 114 to the respective articles B1, B2. The carrier 90 includes pairs of opposing side panels 18, 20; 118, 120 hingedly connected to the main panel 14; 114. Each of the pairs of opposing side panels 18, 20; 118, 120 may be hingedly connected to the main panel 14; 114 by shoulder panels 14E, 14F; 118S, 120S.

[0179] The carrier 90 includes end straps 26A / 22A / 12 / 22B / 26B, 30A / 24A / 16 / 24B / 30B; 126A / 122A / 112 / 122B / 126B, 130A / 124A / 116 / 124B / 130B hingedly connected between pairs of opposing side panels 18, 20; 118, 120, with no direct connection to the main panel 14; 114. Cutouts in the form of cuts, severable lines, recesses, slots, or openings separate the end straps 26A / 22A / 12 / 22B / 26B, 30A / 24A / 16 / 24B / 30B; 126A / 122A / 112 / 122B / 126B, 130A / 124A / 116 / 124B / 130B from the main panel 14; 114.

[0180] A bridging structure connects the end straps 26A / 22A / 12 / 22B / 26B, 30A / 24A / 16 / 24B / 30B; 126A / 122A / 112 / 122B / 126B, 130A / 124A / 116 / 124B / 130B to the main panel 14; 114.

[0181] The bridging structure comprises bridging panels 6, 8; 106, 108 hingedly connected to end straps 26A / 22A / 12 / 22B / 26B, 30A / 24A / 16 / 24B / 30B; 126A / 122A / 112 / 122B / 126B, 130A / 124A / 116 / 124B / 130 by first hinge connections in the form of fold lines 19; 119.

[0182] The bridging panels 6, 8; 106, 108 are hingedly connected to the main panel 14; 114 by second hinge connections in the form of fold lines 4, 5; 160, 164. The second hinge connections may be non-linear. The second hinge connections may be shorter than the first hinge connections. The bridging panels 6, 8; 106, 108 may be tapered in shape, reducing in width toward the center of the main panel 14; 114.

[0183] The bridging panels 6, 8; 106, 108 may be hingedly connected to the central portion of the main panel 14;

[0184] The bridging panels 6, 8 may be hingedly connected to at least one keel panel 14C, 14D forming a keel structure 14C / 14D arranged between a first row of the item retaining structures RT1, RT2 or the upper article engaging devices 70A, 70B, 72A, 72B and a second row of the item retaining structures RT1, RT2 or the upper article engaging devices 70A, 70B, 72A, 72B.

[0185] The bridging panels 6, 8 may be hingedly connected to each pair of keel panels 14C, 14D forming a keel structure 14C / 14D disposed between a first row of the item retaining structures RT1, RT2 or the upper article engaging devices 70A, 70B, 72A, 72B and a second row of the item retaining structures RT1, RT2 or the upper article engaging devices 70A, 70B, 72A, 72B.

[0186] In the package, the bridging panels 6, 8 may be disposed in a gap between a first, most extreme article B1, B2 disposed in a first row of the article retaining structures RT1, RT2 or upper article engaging devices 70A, 70B, 72A, 72B and a second, most extreme article B1, B2 disposed in a second row of the article retaining structures RT1, RT2 or upper article engaging devices 70A, 70B, 72A, 72B, with the second, most extreme article B1, B2 disposed adjacent to the first, most extreme article B1, B2.

[0187] The bridging panels 6, 8 are angled relative to the main panels 14; 114. The bridging panels 6, 8 are oriented obliquely relative to the main panels 14; 114 and the end straps 26A / 22A / 12 / 22B / 26B, 30A / 24A / 16 / 24B / 30B; 126A / 122A / 112 / 122B / 126B, 130A / 124A / 116 / 124B / 130.

[0188] A slight adhesive may be used to secure the side panels 18, 20; 118, 120 to the articles B1, B2. An example of a specific adhesive is Swift® melt 7044, manufactured by HB Fuller. The use of a slight adhesive is optional; the advantage of a slight adhesive is its tendency to remain attached to the carrier 90 when the articles B1, B2 are disengaged from the carrier 90 (which may be more desirable than leaving the adhesive attached to the articles B1, B2). In alternative embodiments, other adhesives may be used, such as, but not limited to, a hot melt adhesive.

[0189] It will be understood that various modifications can be made within the scope of the present invention. For example, the size and shape of the panels and openings can be adjusted to accommodate items of different sizes or shapes. Inner and / or outer shoulder panels may be omitted entirely or included in any desired combination. The present invention is not limited to top-engaging cartons; the present invention may be used with other carton styles, including, but not limited to, open-top crates, lidded or closed-top crates, and fully enclosed cartons.

[0190] It will be appreciated that, as used herein, references to directions such as "top," "bottom," "bottom," "front," "back," "edge," "side," "inward," "outward," "upward," and "below" do not necessarily limit each panel to such orientation, but may merely serve to distinguish these panels from one another.

[0191] As used herein, the terms "hinge" and "fold line" refer to any manner of line that defines a hinge feature in a blank, facilitates folding portions of the blank relative to one another, or otherwise indicates the optimal location for folding a panel about the blank. References to a "hinge" should not necessarily be construed as referring only to a single fold line; in fact, a hinge may be formed from two or more fold lines, each of which may be either straight or curved in shape. Straight fold lines may be positioned parallel to one another when forming a hinge connection, or may be slightly angled relative to one another. Curved fold lines may intersect with one another when forming a hinge connection to define a molded panel within the area enclosed by the curved fold lines. A typical example of such a hinge connection may include a pair of arched or arcuate fold lines that intersect at two points to define an elliptical panel therebetween. The hinge connection may be formed from one or more straight fold lines and one or more curved fold lines. A typical example of such a hinge connection may comprise a combination of a straight fold line and an arched or bowed fold line that intersect at two points to define a half-moon shaped panel therebetween.

[0192] As used herein, the term "fold line" may refer to one of the following: a perforation line, an embossed line, a debossed line, a perforation line, a short slit line, a half-cut line, a single half-cut, an interrupted cut, a line of aligned slits, a perforation line, and any combination of these options.

[0193] It should be understood that the hinge connections and fold lines can each include elements formed in the substrate of the blank, including perforations, perforation lines, short slit lines, half-cut lines, single half-cut lines, cuts, interrupted cuts, slits, perforations, embossed lines, debossed lines, any combination thereof, etc. The elements can be sized and arranged to provide the desired functionality. For example, perforation lines can be sized or designed with a degree of weakness to define fold and / or cut lines. Perforation lines can be designed to facilitate folding while resisting tearing, to facilitate folding while facilitating tearing with greater force, or to facilitate tearing with less force.

[0194] As used herein, the phrase "in registration with" refers to the alignment of two or more elements in 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. Elements that are in registration with each other may be aligned with each other in the thickness direction of the overlapping panels. For example, when an opening in a first panel is "in registration with" a second opening in a second panel that is disposed in an overlapping arrangement with the first panel, an edge of the opening may extend along at least a portion of the edge of the second opening and be aligned with the second opening in the thickness direction of the first and second panels. [Explanation of symbols]

[0195] 4, 5, 7, 9 fold lines 6 First Bridging Panel 8 Second Bridging Panel 10 blank 12 First end strap, first end panel 13, 15 fold lines 14 Main Panel 14A First Upper Panel 14B Second upper panel 14C First inner shoulder panel, keel structure, keel panel 14D Second inner shoulder panel, keel structure, keel panel 14E First outer shoulder panel 14F Second outer shoulder panel 16 Second end strap, second end panel 17 Fold lines 18 First Side Panel 18A First Detachable Tab 19 Fold lines 20 Second Side Panel 20A Second Detachable Tab 21A, 21B, 23A, 23B, 25A, 25B, 27A, 27B, 29A, 29B, 31A, 31B, 33A, 33B, 35A, 35B Fold lines 22A First end strap, first corner panel 22B First end strap, second corner panel 24A Second End Strap, Third Corner Panel 24B 2nd end strap, 4th corner panel 26A First End Strap, First Fastening Panel 26B First end strap, second fastening panel 28A First Gusset Panel 28B Second Gusset Panel 30A Second End Strap, Third Fixed Panel 30B Second end strap, fourth fastening panel 32A Third Gusset Panel 32B 4th gusset panel 70A First outer article engaging device, cut 70B Second outer article engaging device, discontinuity 72A First inner article engaging device, cut 72B Second inner article engaging device, cut 71A, 71B Second or Stress Relief Fold Lines 73A, 73B, 75A, 75B, 76 fold lines 77A, 77B Second or Stress Relief Fold Lines 81A Third or Stress Relief Fold Line, First Stress Relief Fold Line 81B Fourth or Stress Relief Fold Line, Fifth Stress Relief Fold Line 81C Third or Stress Relief Fold Line, Second Stress Relief Fold Line 81D Fourth or Stress Relief Fold Line, Sixth Stress Relief Fold Line 83A Third or Stress Relief Fold Line, Third Stress Relief Fold Line 83B Fourth or Stress Relief Fold Line, Seventh Stress Relief Fold Line 83C Third or Stress Relief Fold Line, Fourth Stress Relief Fold Line 83D Fourth or stress relief fold line, eighth stress relief fold line 90 cartons, carrier 106 First Bridging Panel 108 Second Bridging Panel 110 Blank 112 first end strap, first end panel 113 Fold line 114 Main Panel 115 Fold line 116 Second end strap, second end panel 117, 117A, 119, 119A fold lines 118 First Side Panel 118S First outer shoulder panel 120 Second Side Panel 120S Second outer shoulder panel 121A, 121B, 123A, 123B, 129A, 129B, 132A, 131B fold lines 126A, 122A, 122B, 126B First end strap, panel 130A, 124A, 124B, 130B Second end strap, panel 142 Second Peripheral Break 144 Partial Teeth 146 complete teeth 146A Outermost tooth, first complete tooth 146B Second complete tooth 146C Third complete tooth 140, 148 Radial cuts 154 First Peripheral Gap 156A Third recess, cutout 156B First recess, cutout 156C Second recess, cutout 160 fold lines 162 Fold lines, hinges 164 fold lines 166 Fold lines, hinges A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8 opening B1, B2: The most extreme items C Seams and edges C Center of opening d1 Width and diameter of openings A1, A2, A7, and A8 d2 Width and diameter of the goods receiving opening d3, d4 interval D B Maximum diameter and width of item B1 D BS Maximum diameter and width of item B2 D N Diameter and horizontal dimensions of the upper closure of item B1 D NS Diameter and horizontal dimensions of upper closure T of item B2 E1 Engagement edge F flange G1 Panel adhesive location G2 Article adhesion location M Main body of item B1 M S Main body of item B2 N, N S neck R recess RT1 First article holding structure, end article holding structure RT2 Second article holding structure, intermediate article holding structure T upper part, upper closure part T1 First tear or cut line T2 Second tear or cuttable line U user xx Second conceptual line yy First conceptual line

Claims

1. 1. An article carrier for packaging at least one article, comprising: the article carrier comprises a main panel having at least one upper engaging article device for receiving each article and securing the main panel to each article; the article carrier further comprises a pair of opposing side panels hingedly connected to the main panel, an end strap hingedly connected between the pair of opposing side panels, and a bridge structure connecting the end strap to the main panel; the spanning structure comprises a spanning panel; The article carrier, wherein the bridging panel is hingedly connected to at least one panel forming a keel structure disposed between a first row of one or more upper-engaging article devices and a second row of one or more upper-engaging article devices.

2. An article carrier for packaging at least one article, comprising: the article carrier comprises a main panel having at least one upper engaging article device for receiving each article and securing the main panel to each article; the article carrier further comprises a pair of opposing side panels hingedly connected to the main panel, an end strap hingedly connected between the pair of opposing side panels, and a bridge structure connecting the end strap to the main panel; the spanning structure comprises a spanning panel; An article carrier, wherein the bridging panel is hingedly connected to each of a pair of panels forming a keel structure disposed between a first row of one or more upper engaging article devices and a second row of one or more upper engaging article devices.

3. 3. The article carrier of claim 1 or 2, wherein each of the pair of opposing side panels is hingedly connected to the main panel by a shoulder panel.

4. 3. The article carrier of claim 1 or 2, comprising a cutout separating the end straps from the main panel.

5. The article carrier of claim 4, wherein the cutout comprises at least one element selected from the following group of elements: a notch, a tearable line, a recess, a slot, and an opening.

6. 3. The article carrier of claim 1 or 2, wherein the bridging panel is hingedly connected to the end strap by a first hinge connection.

7. The article carrier of claim 6 , wherein the bridge panel is hingedly connected to the main panel by a second hinge connection.

8. The article carrier of claim 7 , wherein the second hinge connection is non-linear.

9. The article carrier of claim 7 , wherein the second hinge connection is shorter than the first hinge connection.

10. 3. The article carrier of claim 1 or 2, wherein the bridging panel is tapered in shape so that its width decreases toward the center of the main panel.

11. 3. The article carrier of claim 1 or 2, wherein the bridge panel is hingedly connected to a central portion of the main panel.

12. 3. The article carrier of claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one of the pair of opposing side panels comprises at least one fastening area comprising an adhesive for adhering to an adjacently positioned article.

13. A package comprising an article carrier and a plurality of articles, the article carrier includes main panels each having a plurality of upper engaging article devices for receiving an article and securing the main panel to a respective one of the articles; the plurality of upper engaging article devices are arranged in rows, comprising a first row and a second row; the article carrier further comprises a pair of opposing side panels hingedly connected to the main panel, end straps hingedly connected between the pair of opposing side panels and without direct connection to the main panel, and bridge structures connecting the end straps to the main panel; the spanning structure comprises a spanning panel; the bridging panel is disposed in a gap between a first most end article disposed in the first row of the upper engaging article device and a second most end article disposed in the second row of the upper engaging article device; the second endmost item is positioned adjacent to the first endmost item; The package, wherein the bridging panel is hingedly connected to at least one panel forming a keel structure disposed between a first row of one or more upper engaging article devices and a second row of one or more upper engaging article devices.

14. A package comprising an article carrier and a plurality of articles, the article carrier includes main panels each having a plurality of upper engaging article devices for receiving an article and securing the main panel to a respective one of the articles; the plurality of upper engaging article devices are arranged in rows, comprising a first row and a second row; the article carrier further comprises a pair of opposing side panels hingedly connected to the main panel, end straps hingedly connected between the pair of opposing side panels and without direct connection to the main panel, and bridge structures connecting the end straps to the main panel; the spanning structure comprises a spanning panel; the bridging panel is disposed in a gap between a first most end article disposed in the first row of the upper engaging article device and a second most end article disposed in the second row of the upper engaging article device; the second endmost item is positioned adjacent to the first endmost item; A package, wherein the bridging panel is hingedly connected to each of a pair of panels forming a keel structure disposed between a first row of one or more upper engaging article devices and a second row of one or more upper engaging article devices.

15. 15. The package of claim 13 or 14, wherein the bridge panel is inclined relative to the main panel.

16. 15. The package of claim 13 or 14, wherein the bridge panel is oriented obliquely relative to the main panel and the end straps.

17. 15. The package of claim 13 or 14, wherein at least one of the pair of opposing side panels is attached to at least one adjacently positioned article.

18. 1. A blank for forming an article carrier, comprising: the blank comprises a main panel having at least one upper engaging article device for receiving a respective article and securing the main panel to the respective article; the blank further comprises a pair of opposing side panels hingedly connected to the main panel, end straps hingedly connected between the pair of opposing side panels and not directly connected to the main panel, and bridge structures connecting the end straps to the main panel; the spanning structure comprises a spanning panel; A blank, wherein the bridging panel is hingedly connected to at least one panel forming a keel structure disposed between a first row of one or more upper engaging article devices and a second row of one or more upper engaging article devices.

19. 1. A blank for forming an article carrier, comprising: the blank comprises a main panel having at least one upper engaging article device for receiving a respective article and securing the main panel to the respective article; the blank further comprises a pair of opposing side panels hingedly connected to the main panel, end straps hingedly connected between the pair of opposing side panels and not directly connected to the main panel, and bridge structures connecting the end straps to the main panel; the spanning structure comprises a spanning panel; A blank, wherein the bridging panel is hingedly connected to each of a pair of panels forming a keel structure disposed between a first row of one or more upper engaging article devices and a second row of one or more upper engaging article devices.

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