Goods carriers, and blanks for goods carriers

Abstract

The present disclosure relates to an article-engaging carrier for packaging one or more articles, and a blank for forming the carrier. The carrier includes a top panel (14) with at least one article-engaging feature (RT1, RT2). At least one shoulder panel (18, 20) is hingedly connected to the top panel and disposed obliquely relative to the top panel. The at least one engagement feature includes an article-receiving opening (A1-A8) and an annular series of engagement tabs formed around the article-receiving opening. The annular series of engagement tabs includes at least one first tab (46B) and at least one second tab (46C). The at least one first tab is hingedly connected in part to the top panel and in part to the at least one shoulder panel. The at least one first tab has a first radial length (LT1). The at least one second tab is hingedly connected to only the top panel and has a second radial length (LT2), the first radial length being greater than the second radial length.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to article carriers and blanks for forming article carriers. More specifically, the present invention relates to a top-gripping type of carrier having one or more openings for receiving and holding articles. [Background technology]

[0002] In the field of packaging, the provision of cartons for carrying multiple items is well known. Cartons are technically well-known and are convenient for consumers to transport, store, and access a group of items for consumption. For cost and environmental considerations, such cartons or carriers should be formed from as little material as possible, and the waste of material during formation should be kept to a minimum. Further considerations include the strength and suitability of the carton for holding and transporting heavy items. It is desirable that the contents of the carton be securely fixed inside the carton.

[0003] It is well known to provide an article carrier that grips from above, in which an opening is formed in the carrier's panel, and tabs are punched out from the panel and positioned around the opening. The tabs are offset from the plane of the panel when an article is received into the opening, and the tabs generally engage with the article around its flange or lip.

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

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

[0006] A first aspect of the present invention provides an article carrier for packaging at least one article. The carrier comprises an upper panel having at least one article engagement feature and at least one shoulder panel hinged to the upper panel and positioned obliquely to the upper panel. The at least one article engagement feature comprises an article receiving opening and a series of annular engagement tabs formed around the article receiving opening. The series of annular engagement tabs comprises at least one first tab and at least one second tab. The at least one first tab is hinged in part to the upper panel and hinged in part to at least one shoulder panel. The at least one first tab has a first radial length. The at least one second tab is hinged only to the upper panel and has a second radial length. The first radial length is greater than the second radial length.

[0007] Optionally, at least one first tab may be hinged to the top panel and at least one shoulder panel by a first fold line. The first fold line may extend from the top panel to at least one shoulder panel.

[0008] Optionally, at least one shoulder panel may be hinged to the upper panel by a shoulder panel fold line, and the shoulder panel fold line may be interrupted by at least one first tab.

[0009] Optionally, at least one first tab may be asymmetrical with respect to a radially extending conceptual line passing through the midpoint of a first fold line to which at least one first tab hinges to the top panel and at least one shoulder panel.

[0010] Optionally, the annular series of engaging tabs may further comprise at least one third tab. At least one first tab may be adjacent to at least one third tab that is hinged to at least one shoulder panel.

[0011] Optionally, at least one third tab may have a third radial length greater than the second radial length.

[0012] Optionally, at least one third tab may be partially formed from at least one shoulder panel.

[0013] Optionally, at least one first tab may comprise a pair of first tabs interposed with at least one third tab.

[0014] A second aspect of the present invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The carrier comprises an upper panel having at least one article engagement feature and at least one shoulder panel hinged to the upper panel and positioned obliquely to the upper panel when the blank is upright to form an article carrier. The at least one article engagement feature comprises an article receiving opening and a series of annular engagement tabs formed around the article receiving opening. The series of annular engagement tabs comprises at least one first tab and at least one second tab. The at least one first tab is partially hinged to the upper panel and partially hinged to at least one shoulder panel. The at least one first tab has a first radial length. The at least one second tab is hinged only to the upper panel and has a second radial length. The first radial length is greater than the second radial length.

[0015] Optionally, at least one first tab may have a maximum radial length and a minimum radial length, and the first radial length may be the maximum radial length.

[0016] Optionally, the minimum radial length of at least one first tab may be approximately equal to the second radial length of at least one second tab.

[0017] Optionally, at least one first tab may have opposing side edges, and at least one first tab has a maximum radial length along one of the opposing side edges.

[0018] Optionally, at least one first tab may have a minimum radial length along the other of the opposing side edges.

[0019] Optionally, at least one first tab may have a radially decreasing size from one of the opposing side edges towards the other of the opposing side edges.

[0020] Optionally, at least one first tab may have opposing side edges, and at least one first tab may have a minimum radial length along one of the opposing side edges.

[0021] Optionally, one of the opposing side edges of at least one first tab may be adjacent by at least one second tab.

[0022] Optionally, a circular series of engagement tabs may further include at least one third tab, and at least one first tab may be adjacent by at least one third tab that is hingedly connected only to at least one shoulder panel.

[0023] Optionally, at least one third tab may have a third radial length greater than a second radial length.

[0024] Optionally, at least one third tab may be partially formed from at least one shoulder panel.

[0025] Optionally, at least one first tab may include a pair of first tabs disposed with at least one third tab therebetween.

[0026] Within the scope of this application, it is assumed or intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features, and alternatives described in the preceding paragraphs, claims, and / or the following descriptions and drawings may be considered or examined independently or in any combination thereof.

[0027] Features or elements described in relation to or in connection with one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments if the features are not incompatible. One or more features or elements from one embodiment may be incorporated into or combined with any of the other embodiments disclosed herein, and such features or elements extracted from one embodiment may be included in additions or replacements of one or more features or elements in the other embodiments.

[0028] Features or combinations of features of the embodiments disclosed herein may be separated and extracted from other features of those embodiments. Alternatively, features or combinations of features of an embodiment may be omitted from that embodiment.

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

[0030] [Figure 1] This is a top view of a blank for forming a carrier according to the first embodiment. [Figure 1A] This is an enlarged plan view from above of a portion of the blank in Figure 1. [Figure 1B] This figure shows an article holding structure according to an embodiment of the disclosure. [Figure 2] Figure 1 is a top-down perspective view of the carrier formed from the blank. [Figure 3A] Figure 1 shows a top view and a side view of a pair of first articles for use with the blank. [Figure 3B] A pair of top and side views of the second article. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0031] 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 particular aspects of the invention can be carried out and do not represent a comprehensive list of all ways in which the invention can be embodied. As used herein, the term “exemplary” is used broadly to refer to embodiments provided as illustrations, samples, models, or patterns. Indeed, it is understood that the packages, blanks, and carriers described herein can be embodied in various forms and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to a constant 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 this disclosure. Any specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be construed as limitations, but only as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art how to use the invention in various ways.

[0032] Referring to Figure 1, a plan view of a blank 10 is shown which can form a carton or carrier 90, as shown in Figure 2, for carrying a group of primary products, such as bottles or cans, hereafter referred to as Article B, as shown in Figure 2. The blank 10 forms a secondary package for packaging at least one container or package of primary product.

[0033] In embodiments detailed herein, the terms “carton” and “carrier” refer to containers for engaging and carrying articles, such as primary product containers, for the non-limiting purpose of illustrating various features of the present invention. It is considered that the teachings of the present invention can be applied to a variety of product containers, which may be tapered and / or cylindrical. Exemplary containers include bottles (e.g., metal, glass, or plastic bottles), cans (e.g., aluminum cans), tin cans, pouches, pockets, and the like.

[0034] The blank 10 is formed from a sheet of a suitable substrate. As used herein, the term “suitable substrate” is understood to include all kinds of foldable sheet materials, such as cardboard, corrugated cardboard, thick paper, plastic, and combinations thereof. It should be recognized that one or more blanks may be used, for example, if suitable for providing the carrier structure which will be described in more detail later.

[0035] The packaging structures or cartons described herein may be formed from sheet materials such as cardboard, which may be made from or coated with materials to increase their strength. An example of such sheet material is WestRock Company's tear-resistant NATRALOCK® cardboard. It should be noted that tear-resistant materials may be provided by two or more layers to help improve the tear resistance of the package. Typically, one side of the sheet material may have different properties from the other side. For example, the outward-facing side of the sheet material of the finished package may be particularly smooth and may have a coating such as a clay coating or other surface treatment to provide good printability. On the other hand, the inward-facing side of the sheet material may be provided with a coating, layer, or treatment, or otherwise prepared to provide properties such as tear resistance, good adhesive ability, heat sealing properties, or one or more of other desired functional properties.

[0036] In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 10 is configured to form a carton or carrier 90 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles B, the illustrated example of which is shown in Figures 7A and 7B, which show a first article B1 and a second article B2, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, the arrangement is a 2x4 matrix or array, providing two rows of four articles B, where the articles B are beverage cans. Alternatively, the blank 10 can be configured to form a carrier for packaging articles of other types, numbers, and sizes, or / or for packaging articles in different arrangements or configurations.

[0037] The illustrated embodiment is configured to accommodate a smart or slim beverage can, which may be a 330 ml can. Article B has substantially the same diameter over its entire height. An exemplary article B2 is shown in Figure 7B, where article B2 has a maximum diameter or width D BS (Diameter D BS Article B2 has a diameter or width of D (which can be approximately 2.25 inches or approximately 58 mm). NS (Diameter D NS It comprises an upper portion or upper closing portion T which may be approximately 2.125 inches or approximately 54.8 mm.

[0038] Neck N S The upper closure T can provide an outwardly projecting flange, i.e., it can have an undercut for engaging with the carrier. The upper closure T can be attached to the side wall of article B2 to form a seam or "edge" C that provides the flange F. In some embodiments, the upper closure T of article B2 and the main body M S The difference in diameter between the two is less than 7 mm, may be less than 5 mm, and optionally less than 4 mm.

[0039] As used herein, the terms “smart” or “thin” refer to the upper closing portion T that engages with the carrier 90 and the main body M of article B2. SRefers to an article B2 that has little or no change in its lateral dimension with respect to [something]. The article B2 has substantially parallel sides or a substantially uniform diameter.

[0040] In other embodiments, the beverage can can be of different sizes, such as, for example but not limited to, a 350 ml beverage can. An exemplary article B1 is shown in FIG. 7A, and the article B1 has a maximum diameter or lateral dimension D B (diameter D B can be about 2.6 inches or about 66 mm). The article B1 has an upper portion or upper closure with a diameter or lateral dimension D N (diameter D N can be about 2.125 inches or about 54.8 mm). In some embodiments, the difference in diameter between the upper closure of the article B1 and the main body M is more than 7 mm, can be 10 mm or more, and optionally can be at least 12 mm.

[0041] Referring to FIG. 1, a blank 10 is shown that includes a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, including a main panel 14 for forming an upper wall or engagement panel of a carrier 90 (see FIG. 2).

[0042] The blank 10 includes a first side panel 18 that is hingedly connected to a first side of the main panel 14 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 17. More specifically, the main panel 14 is hingedly connected to a first outer shoulder panel 18S that forms part of the first side panel 18. The blank 10 includes a second side panel 20 that is hingedly connected to a second side of the main panel 14 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 19. More specifically, the main panel 14 is hingedly connected to a second outer shoulder panel 20S that forms part of the second side panel 20.

[0043] The first outer shoulder panel 18S is hinge-connected to the first side panel 18 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 17A. The second outer shoulder panel 20S is hinge-connected to the second side panel 20 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 19A.

[0044] Blank 10 comprises a first end strap 26A / 22A / 12 / 22B / 26B and a second end strap 30A / 24A / 16 / 24B / 30B.

[0045] The first end straps 26A / 22A / 12 / 22B / 26B include the first end panel 12. The first corner panel 22A is hinged to the first end of the first end panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 21A. The first fixed panel 26A is hinged to the end of the first corner panel 22A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 23A. The first gusset panel 28A is hinged between the first fixed panel 26A and the first end of the first side panel 18 by fold lines 25A, 27A.

[0046] The second corner panel 22B is hinged to the second end of the first end panel 12 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 21B. The second fixed panel 26B is hinged to the end of the second corner panel 22B by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 23B. The second gusset panel 28B is hinged to the second fixed panel 26B and the first end of the second side panel 20 by fold lines 25B and 27B.

[0047] The first end straps 26A / 22A / 12 / 22B / 26B are partially separable from or can be cut from the main panel 14. The first end panel 12 is partially separable from or can be cut from the main panel 14. The blank 10 may have at least two cuts or splitting lines for cutting that separate the first end panel 12 from the main panel 14. The cuts may be interrupted by openings A9 that are partially punched out from the first end panel 12 and partially punched out from the main panel 14.

[0048] The first corner panel 22A is separated from the main panel 14. The blank 10 may have an opening that separates the first corner panel 22A from the main panel 14 in at least part of it. The first corner panel 22A can be separated from the main panel 14 in at least part of it by a cut or a splitting line. The opening defines a chamfered corner, a rounded corner, or a mitered corner of the main panel 14.

[0049] The second corner panel 22B is separated from the main panel 14. The blank 10 has an opening that separates the second corner panel 22B from the main panel 14 in at least part of it. The second corner panel 22B can be separated from the main panel 14 in at least part of it by a cut or a splitting line. The opening defines a chamfered second corner, a rounded second corner, or a mitered second corner of the main panel 14.

[0050] The first end straps 26A / 22A / 12 / 22B / 26B form the first end wall of the carrier 90.

[0051] The second end straps 30A / 24A / 16 / 24B / 30B include the second end panel 16. The third corner panel 24A is hinged to the first end of the second end panel 16 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 29A. The third fixed panel 30A is hinged to the end of the third corner panel 24A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 31A. The third gusset panel 32A is hinged between the third fixed panel 30A and the second end of the first side panel 18 by fold lines 33A, 35A.

[0052] The fourth corner panel 24B is hinged to the second end of the second end panel 16 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 29B. The fourth fixed panel 30B is hinged to the end of the fourth corner panel 24B by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 31B. The fourth gusset panel 32B is hinged to the fourth fixed panel 30B and the second end of the second side panel 20 by fold lines 33B and 35B.

[0053] The second end straps 30A / 24A / 16 / 24B / 30B are partially separable from or can be cut from the main panel 14. The second end panel 16 is partially separable from or can be cut from the main panel 14. The blank 10 may have at least two cuts or splitting lines for cutting that separate the second end panel 16 from the main panel 14. The cuts may be interspersed by openings A9 which are partially punched out from the first end panel 12 and partially punched out from the main panel 14.

[0054] The third corner panel 24A is separated from the main panel 14. The blank 10 has an opening that separates the third corner panel 24A from the main panel 14 in at least part of it. The third corner panel 24A can be separated from the main panel 14 in at least part of it by a cut or a splitting line. The opening defines a chamfered third corner, a rounded third corner, or a mitered third corner of the main panel 14.

[0055] The fourth corner panel 24B is separated from the main panel 14. The blank 10 has an opening that separates the fourth corner panel 24B from the main panel 14 in at least part of it. The fourth corner panel 24B can be separated from the main panel 14 in at least part of it by a cut or a splitting line. The opening defines a chamfered fourth corner, a rounded fourth corner, or a mitered fourth corner of the main panel 14.

[0056] The second end straps 30A / 24A / 16 / 24B / 30B form the second end wall of the carrier 90.

[0057] The main panel 14 may include at least one article holding structure RT1, RT2. In the illustrated embodiment, the main panel 14 comprises a plurality of article holding structures RT1, RT2, specifically eight article holding structures RT1, RT2 arranged in a 4x2 matrix or array. The main panel 14 comprises two vertical columns of article holding structures RT1, RT2, each of which comprises four article holding structures RT1, RT2. The main panel 14 comprises four horizontal rows of article holding structures RT1, RT2, each of which comprises two article holding structures RT1, RT2. Each of the article holding structures RT1, RT2 may include openings A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8.

[0058] The blank 10 comprises four first article-holding structures RT1. The first article-holding structures RT1 are positioned adjacent to the ends of the main panel 14. The blank 10 comprises four second article-holding structures RT2. The second article-holding structures RT2 are positioned between a first pair of first article-holding structures RT1 located near the first end of the main panel 14 and a second pair of first article-holding structures RT1 located near the second end of the main panel 14. The second article-holding structures RT2 are also referred to herein as intermediate article-holding structures RT2. The first article-holding structures RT1 are also referred to herein as end article-holding structures RT1.

[0059] Article holding structures RT1 and RT2 in the same column are spaced apart from each other by a distance d3. Adjacent article holding structures RT1 and RT2 are positioned close to each other.

[0060] Article holding structures RT1 and RT2 in the same row are spaced apart by a distance d4. Adjacent article holding structures RT1 and RT2 are positioned close to each other.

[0061] Each of the first article holding structures RT1 is substantially similar in structure and will therefore be described in detail with reference to the first of the first article holding structures RT1 positioned adjacent to the first end of the blank 10 as shown in Figure 1.

[0062] The first article holding structure RT1 is provided with an article receiving opening, which is partially defined by the opening A1.

[0063] The first article holding structure RT1 comprises a plurality of teeth 46, 44 arranged around the opening A1. The plurality of teeth 46, 44, or at least their free edges, can define or approximate a conceptual circle. The conceptual circle has a diameter d1.

[0064] Openings A1, A2, A7, and A8 have a width dimension d1. The article receiving opening has a width or diameter d2. The diameter d2 of the article receiving opening is greater than the diameter d1 of the conceptual circle or openings A1, A2, A7, and A8.

[0065] Multiple teeth 46, 44 are hinged to the main panel 14 by fold lines. The fold lines are defined by multiple cuts 42, 54. Multiple cuts 42, 154 can define or approximate a circle.

[0066] The first article holding structure RT1 comprises a plurality of first teeth or complete teeth 46 arranged around the opening A1. Each of the plurality of first teeth 46 comprises a hinge edge and an opposite engagement edge E1. The engagement edge E1 is defined by a straight portion of the cut that defines the opening A1. Each engagement edge E1 defines a portion of the hexagon. The illustrated embodiment comprises 13 first teeth 46 that together define a substantial portion of the hexagon. Each tooth 46 comprises a pair of lateral edges, which are defined by cuts 48, 40 extending radially outward from each vertex of the hexagon, i.e., from each vertex between adjacent pairs of straight portions of the cut that define the opening A1. The cuts 48, 40 are arranged to diverge from each other, defining an angle between them, which may be about 22.5°.

[0067] The first article holding structure RT1 comprises a plurality of first peripheral cuts 54. Each of the plurality of first peripheral cuts 54 is aligned with one of the radial cuts 48, 40, or a conceptual extension thereof, such that it bisects one of the plurality of first peripheral cuts 54.

[0068] Each of the multiple first peripheral cuts 54 is spaced apart from one of the radial cuts 48, 40 that bisect the first peripheral cut 54, so as to define a connecting notch or bridge portion between adjacent pairs of teeth 46, 44.

[0069] Each of the multiple first peripheral cuts 54 may be linear in shape.

[0070] The first article holding structure RT1 comprises a plurality of second peripheral cuts 42. Each of the plurality of second peripheral cuts 42 is positioned between pairs of the plurality of first peripheral cuts 54 and spaced apart from the first peripheral cuts 54 to define pairs of connecting notches or bridge sections between each tooth 46, 44 and the main panel 14. The pairs of connecting notches or bridge sections provide hinged or foldable connections between each tooth 46, 44 and the main panel 14.

[0071] Each of the multiple second peripheral cuts 42 may be linear in shape.

[0072] In an alternative embodiment, each of the plurality of first peripheral cuts 54 may be arched or curved. The first peripheral cuts 54 may have a radius of curvature equal to half the diameter d2 of the article receiving opening. The first peripheral cuts 54 may have a radius of curvature greater than half the diameter d1 of the openings A1, A2, A7, A8.

[0073] In an alternative embodiment, each of the plurality of second peripheral cuts 42 may be arched or curved. The second peripheral cuts 42 may have a radius of curvature equal to half the diameter d2 of the article receiving opening. The second peripheral cuts 42 may have a radius of curvature greater than half the diameter d1 of the openings A1, A2, A7, A8.

[0074] When the first peripheral break 54 and the second peripheral break 42 are linear, they can be considered to define a portion of a circle with infinite radius.

[0075] In the illustrated embodiment, the radius of curvature of each of the multiple second peripheral cuts 42 is equal to the radius of curvature of each of the multiple first peripheral cuts 54, but in other embodiments they may be different.

[0076] Optionally, multiple teeth 46, 44 are intersected by a first recess or cutout 56B. The first recess 56B lies on a first conceptual line yy. The first conceptual line yy extends radially from the center C of the openings A1, A2, A7, A8 and passes through the center of the first recess 56B. The first conceptual line yy may extend across the eyes of the blank 10. The first conceptual line yy is oriented perpendicular to the direction of the eyes. The first conceptual line yy extends in the longitudinal direction of the blank 10.

[0077] Optionally, multiple teeth 46, 44 are intercepted by a second recess or cutout 56C. The second recess 56C lies on a second conceptual line xx. The second conceptual line xx extends radially from the center C of the openings A1, A2, A7, A8 and passes through the center of the second recess 56C. The second conceptual line xx may extend along the eye of the blank 10. The second conceptual line xx is oriented parallel to the direction of the eye. The second conceptual line xx extends across the blank 10 or laterally across the blank 10.

[0078] The first recess 56B is dimensioned to occupy a first arc defined by a first smaller sector. The first smaller sector is partly defined by a conceptual line of the first sector extending radially from the center C of the conceptual circle and passing through the side edge of a first partial tooth 44 located adjacent to the first side of the first recess 56B, and partly defined by a conceptual line of the second sector extending radially from the center C of the conceptual circle and passing through the side edge of a second partial tooth 44 located adjacent to the second opposite side of the first recess 56B. The conceptual lines of the first and second sectors define a second angle between them. The second angle can be in the range of 35° to 50° and may be approximately 45°.

[0079] The second recess 56C is dimensioned to occupy a second arc defined by a second smaller sector. The second smaller sector is partly defined by a conceptual line of a third sector extending radially from the center C of the conceptual circle and passing through the side edge of a third partial tooth 44 located adjacent to the first side of the second recess 56B, and partly defined by a conceptual line of a fourth sector extending radially from the center C of the conceptual circle and passing through the side edge of a fourth partial tooth 44 located adjacent to the second opposite side of the second recess 56B. The conceptual lines of the third and fourth sectors define a third angle between them. The third angle can be in the range of 35° to 50° and may be approximately 45°.

[0080] The conceptual lines of the first and third sectors define the larger or first tooth sector, the first tooth sector defines the third arc, and the third arc is occupied by teeth 46 and 44. In other words, teeth 46 and 44 are positioned around the third arc in the region surrounding the first opening A1.

[0081] The conceptual lines of the second and fourth sectors define a third smaller sector or the second tooth sector, the second tooth sector defines a fourth arc, and the fourth arc is occupied by teeth 46 and 44. In other words, teeth 46 and 44 are positioned around the fourth arc in the region surrounding the first opening A1.

[0082] Each of the second article holding structures RT2 is substantially similar in structure and will therefore be described in detail with reference to the first of the second article holding structures RT2 positioned adjacent to the first of the first article holding structures RT1 as shown in Figure 1.

[0083] The second article holding structure RT2 includes article receiving openings, which are partially defined by the second openings A3, A4, A5, and A6.

[0084] The second article holding structure RT2 comprises a plurality of teeth 46, 44 arranged with respect to the second opening A3. The plurality of teeth 46, 44, or at least their free edges, can define or approximate a second conceptual circle.

[0085] Multiple teeth 46, 44 are hinged to the main panel 14 by fold lines. The fold lines can be defined by multiple cuts 42, 54. The multiple cuts 42, 54 can define or approximate a circle.

[0086] The second opening A3 comprises a plurality of first teeth or complete teeth 46 arranged around the second opening A3. Each of the plurality of first teeth 46 comprises a hinge edge and an opposite engagement edge E1. The engagement edge E1 is defined by a straight portion of the cut that defines the second opening A3. Each engagement edge E1 defines a portion or side of the hexagon. The illustrated embodiment comprises 10 first teeth 46 that together define a substantial portion of the hexagon. Each tooth 46 comprises a pair of lateral edges, which are defined by cuts 48, 40 extending radially outward from each vertex of the hexagon, i.e., from each vertex between adjacent pairs of straight portions of the cut that define the second opening A3. The cuts 48, 40 are arranged to diverge from each other and define an angle between them, which may be about 22.5°.

[0087] The second article holding structure RT2 comprises a plurality of first peripheral cuts 54. Each of the plurality of first peripheral cuts 54 is aligned with one of the radial cuts 48, 40, or a conceptual extension thereof, such that it bisects one of the plurality of first peripheral cuts 54.

[0088] Each of the multiple first peripheral cuts 54 is spaced apart from one of the radial cuts 48, 40 that bisect the first peripheral cut 54, so as to define a connecting notch or bridge portion between adjacent pairs of teeth 46, 44. The connecting notch or bridge portion is located close to the root of the teeth 46.

[0089] Each of the multiple first peripheral cuts 54 may be linear in shape.

[0090] The second article holding structure RT2 comprises a plurality of second peripheral cuts 42. Each of the plurality of second peripheral cuts 42 is positioned between pairs of the plurality of first peripheral cuts 54 and spaced apart from the first peripheral cuts 54 to define connecting notches or bridge portions between each tooth 46, 44 and the main panel 14. The pair of connecting notches or bridge portions provides a hinged or foldable connection between each tooth 46, 44 and the main panel 14.

[0091] Each of the multiple second peripheral cuts 42 may be linear in shape.

[0092] Multiple teeth 46, 44 are interspersed by a first recess or cutout 56B, a second recess or cutout 56C, and a third recess or cutout 56A. The first recess 56B and the third recess 56A each lie on a first conceptual line yy. The first conceptual line yy extends radially from the center C of the second opening A3 and passes through the centers of the first recess 56B and the third recess 56A, respectively.

[0093] The first recess 56B is dimensioned to occupy a first arc defined by a first smaller sector. The first smaller sector is partly defined by a conceptual line of the first sector extending radially from the center C of the conceptual circle and passing through the side edge of a first partial tooth 44 located adjacent to the first side of the first recess 56B, and partly defined by a conceptual line of the second sector extending radially from the center of the conceptual circle and passing through the side edge of a second partial tooth 44 located adjacent to the second opposite side of the first recess 56B. The conceptual lines of the first and second sectors define an angle between them. The angle can be in the range of 35° to 50° and may be approximately 45°.

[0094] The second recess 56C is dimensioned to occupy a second arc defined by a second smaller sector. The second smaller sector is partly defined by a conceptual line of a third sector extending radially from the center C of the conceptual circle and passing through the side edge of a third partial tooth 44 located adjacent to the first side of the second recess 56C, and partly defined by a conceptual line of a fourth sector extending radially from the center C of the conceptual circle and passing through the side edge of a fourth partial tooth 44 located adjacent to the second opposite side of the second recess 56C. The conceptual lines of the third and fourth sectors define an angle between them. The third angle can be in the range of 35° to 50° and may be approximately 45°.

[0095] The third recess 56A is dimensioned to occupy a third arc defined by a third smaller sector. The third smaller sector is partly defined by a conceptual line of a fifth sector extending radially from the center C of the conceptual circle and passing through the side edge of a fifth partial tooth 44 located adjacent to the first side of the third recess 56A, and partly defined by a conceptual line of a sixth sector extending radially from the center C of the conceptual circle and passing through the side edge of a sixth partial tooth 44 located adjacent to the second opposite side of the third recess 56A. The conceptual lines of the fifth and sixth sectors define an angle between them. The third angle can be in the range of 35° to 50° and may be approximately 45°.

[0096] The conceptual lines of the first and fifth sectors define the larger or first tooth sector, the first tooth sector defines the fourth arc, and the fourth arc is occupied by teeth 46 and 44. In other words, teeth 46 and 44 are positioned around the fourth arc in the region surrounding the second opening A3.

[0097] The conceptual lines of the second and fourth sectors define a third smaller sector or the second tooth sector, the second tooth sector defines a fifth arc, and the fifth arc is occupied by teeth 46 and 44. In other words, teeth 46 and 44 are positioned around the fifth arc in the region surrounding the second opening A3.

[0098] The conceptual lines of the third and sixth sectors define the fourth smaller sector or the third tooth sector, the third tooth sector defines the sixth arc, and the sixth arc is occupied by teeth 46 and 44. In other words, teeth 46 and 44 are positioned around the sixth arc in the region surrounding the second opening A3.

[0099] The first recess 56B and the third recess 56A are opposite each other in the diametrical direction.

[0100] The second recess is oriented or positioned substantially orthogonally to the first recess 56B and the third recess 56A.

[0101] The centers of the first recess 56B and the third recess 56A of the second article holding structure RT2 are collinear with the center of the first recess 56B of the first article holding structure RT1.

[0102] The third recess 56A of the second article holding structure RT2 is positioned adjacent to the first recess 56B of the first article holding structure RT1 and is oriented opposite to the first recess 56B.

[0103] Each of the second recesses 56C of the second article holding structure RT2 is positioned adjacent to a second recess of the second article holding structure RT2 and is oriented opposite to that second recess.

[0104] Each of the second recesses 56C of the first article holding structure RT1 is positioned adjacent to a second recess of the first article holding structure RT1 and is oriented opposite to that second recess.

[0105] The weave of the material forming the blank 10 may be positioned tangent to the centers of the first recess 56B and the third recess 56A of the second article holding structure RT2. The weave of the material forming the blank 10 may be positioned tangent to the center of the first recess 56B of the first article holding structure RT1. In this method, for a tear to propagate between the first opening A1 and the second opening A3, the tear must propagate across the weave of the blank 10. In this method, the blank 10 is positioned to provide maximum resistance to the propagation of a tear between the first opening A1 and the second opening A3.

[0106] The removal of teeth 46 has been shown to reduce the possibility of tear propagation when packaging articles B2 of a smart or slender design, for example, by providing recesses 56B, 56C, and 56A in the locations where two adjacent openings A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, and A8 are located in close proximity. This beneficial advantage may result from the removal of radial cuts 48 and 40 in the region of the blank 10 where the openings A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, and A8 are located in close proximity.

[0107] In one example, the spacing d3, d4 between adjacent article holding structures RT1, RT2 may be approximately 0.186 inches (4.7 mm). The diameter d1 of the conceptual circle, or the diameter d1 of the openings A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8, may be approximately 1.771 inches (44.9 mm). The diameter d2 of the article receiving opening may be approximately 2.098 inches (53.2 mm). The teeth 146 may have a radial dimension or height (measured between the free edge 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 teeth 146 is given by 1 / 2(d2-d1).

[0108] The item receiving openings are positioned close to each other.

[0109] The diameter d2 of the item receiving opening is approximately 11 times larger than the distance between the item receiving openings.

[0110] The spacing d3 and d4 between the article receiving openings may be less than half the diameter d2 of the article receiving opening. The spacing d3 and d4 may be less than one-quarter or one-fifth of the diameter d2 of the article receiving opening. In some embodiments, the spacing d3 and d4 between the article receiving openings may be less than one-eighth or one-tenth of the diameter d2 of the article receiving opening.

[0111] The spacing d3, d4 between the article receiving openings may be less than twice the radial dimension or height of the tooth 46. In some embodiments, the spacing d3, d4 between the article receiving openings may be less than 50% of the radial dimension or height of the tooth 46 and greater than that radial dimension or height. In some embodiments, the spacing d3, d4 between the article receiving openings may be less than 20% of the radial dimension or height of the tooth 46 and greater than that radial dimension or height.

[0112] Figure 1A shows an enlarged view of a portion of the blank 10, clearly showing that the article holding structures RT1 and RT2 (the second article holding structure RT2 is shown) are inserted between the main panel 14 and the shoulder panels 18S and 20S at the fold lines 17 and 19. In an alternative embodiment, the article holding structures RT1 and RT2 can be inserted with hinge connections between the main panel 14 and the side panels.

[0113] The outermost teeth or the first complete teeth 46A are partially punched out from the first shoulder panel 18S. The outermost teeth 46A are hinged to the first shoulder panel 18S. The notches 42, 54 associated with the outermost teeth 46A are defined in the first shoulder panel 18S. Both the coupling notches or bridge sections that hinge the first complete teeth 46A to the blank 10 are located in the first shoulder panel 18S.

[0114] The first complete tooth 46A lies on the second conceptual line xx.

[0115] A second complete tooth 46B is positioned adjacent to or adjacent to the first complete tooth 46A on the opposite side of the first complete tooth 46A. The second complete tooth 46B is partially punched out from the first shoulder panel 18S. The second complete tooth 46B is partially hinged to the first shoulder panel 18S. The second complete tooth 46B is partially hinged to the main panel 14. One of a pair of first peripheral cutouts 54 associated with each second complete tooth 46B is defined in the first shoulder panel 18S. The other of a pair of first peripheral cutouts 54 associated with each second complete tooth 46B is defined in the main panel 14. A second peripheral cutout 42 associated with each second complete tooth 46B is partially defined in the first shoulder panel 18S and partially defined in the main panel 14. One of a pair of connecting notches or bridge sections that hinge each second complete tooth 46B to the blank 10 is located on the first shoulder panel 18S. The other of the pair of connecting notches or bridge sections that hinge each second complete tooth 46B to the blank 10 is located on the main panel 14.

[0116] A third complete tooth 46C is positioned adjacent to each of the second complete teeth 46B. The third complete tooth 46C is punched out entirely from the main panel 14. The hinge connection between the third complete tooth 46C and the main panel 14 is defined entirely within the main panel 14.

[0117] The first complete tooth 46A includes a first maximum radial dimension LT2, as shown in Figure 1B, and the first maximum radial dimension LT2 is defined at the midpoint of the first complete tooth 46A. The third complete tooth 46C includes a third maximum radial dimension LT, and the third maximum radial dimension LT is defined at the midpoint of the third complete tooth 46C. The first maximum radial dimension LT2 is greater than the third maximum radial dimension LT. The first complete tooth 46A is taller than any of the third complete teeth 46C.

[0118] Each of the second complete teeth 46B has a tapered shape. The first lateral edge of the second complete tooth 46B has a second maximum radial dimension LT1, which is determined at the lateral edge of the second complete tooth 46B in contact with the first complete tooth 46A. The second maximum radial dimension LT1 of the second complete tooth 46B is equal to the radial dimension of the first complete tooth 46A in the position of contact with the first complete tooth 46A. The second maximum radial dimension LT1 is smaller than the first maximum radial dimension LT2.

[0119] The second opposite side edge of the second complete tooth 46B has a radial dimension equal to one radial dimension of each of the third complete teeth 46C at the point of contact with the third complete tooth 46C. The second maximum radial dimension LT1 is greater than the third maximum radial dimension LT.

[0120] Each second complete tooth 46B has a radial dimension that gradually decreases from the first lateral edge to the second lateral edge, such that each second complete tooth 46B has a tapered shape, and the free end edge of each second complete tooth 46B is not perpendicular to the conceptual radial line nn (Figure 1B).

[0121] The notches 40, 48 separating the first complete tooth 46A from each of the second complete teeth 46B are longer than the notches 40B, 48B separating each of the second complete teeth 46B from each of the third complete teeth 46C.

[0122] Blank 10 includes at least a cardboard substrate. The material of the cardboard substrate can be selected from any conventional cardboard, for example, having a weight of about 10 pt. and above, preferably in the range of about 16 pt. to about 28 pt. (0.028" / about 0.7 mm). Examples of such substrates are 27-point (pt.) SBS cardboard (sulfuric acid cardboard with one side solid-bleached, traded under the name PrintKote®) manufactured by WestRock® Company, or CNK® cardboard (unbleached kraft cardboard with one side clay-coated, traded under the name Coated Natural Kraft®-CarrierKote®). The cardboard substrate may be bleached or unbleached cardboard. The cardboard may be coated on at least one side, optionally on the opposite side of the lamination, by a conventional coating selected for its suitability with the printing method and the cardboard composition.

[0123] Blank 10 may include a tear-resistant layer laminated to the paperboard layer. Blank 10 optionally includes an adhesive layer between the paperboard substrate and the tear-resistant layer. The tear-resistant layer may be positioned across the uncoated side of the paperboard substrate, may be formed from a polymer material, and may be fixed to the substrate. The tear-resistant layer imparts toughness to the laminated structure. Suitable tear-resistant materials may include, but are not limited to, biaxially oriented polyester, oriented nylon, cross-laminated polyolefin, or high-density polyolefin, and may include n-axis oriented film layers such as MYLAR®, or tear-resistant laminated sheet materials such as NATRALOCK®. The orientation and cross-laminated structure of these materials contribute to the tear resistance. Tear resistance may also be due to the chemical properties of tear-resistant materials such as extruded metallocene-catalyzed polyethylene (mPE).

[0124] Alternatively, the tear-resistant layer may be a layer of chain-type low-density polyethylene (LLDPE). In embodiments where chain-type low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) or mPE is used, it is not necessary to incorporate an adhesive layer. Other suitable materials with high tear resistance may be used.

[0125] The adhesive layer may be formed from a polyolefin material such as low-density polyethylene (LDPE). The adhesive layer may be placed between the substrate and the tear-resistant layer to fix the tear-resistant layer to the substrate.

[0126] This disclosure provides an upper-engaging carrier 90 having article holding structures RT1 and RT2 for engaging articles B, B1 and B2.

[0127] The carrier 90 comprises a main panel 14 having one or more article holding structures RT1, RT2 for receiving articles B1, B2 and securing the main panel 14 to each article B1, B2. The carrier 90 comprises pairs of opposing side panels 18, 20 hinged to the main panel 14. Each pair of opposing side panels 18, 20 may be hinged to the main panel 14 by shoulder panels 18S, 20S.

[0128] Advantageously, the 18S and 20S shoulder panels can improve the impact resistance of the carrier 90.

[0129] The carrier 90 is equipped with end straps 26A / 22A / 12 / 22B / 26B, 30A / 24A / 16 / 24B / 30B that are hinged between pairs of opposing side panels 18, 20, and are not directly connected to the main panel 14. The end straps 26A / 22A / 12 / 22B / 26B, 30A / 24A / 16 / 24B / 30B can be cut to the main panel 14 in a blank configuration. Cutouts in the form of slits, cuttable lines, recesses, slots, or openings separate the end straps 26A / 22A / 12 / 22B / 26B, 30A / 24A / 16 / 24B / 30B from the main panel 14.

[0130] The embodiment provides an article engagement carrier comprising an upper panel 14 with at least one article engagement feature RT1, RT2, and at least one shoulder panel 18S, 20S hinged to the upper panel 14 and positioned diagonally to the upper panel. The at least one engagement feature RT1, RT2 includes an article receiving opening RT1, RT2 and an annular series of engagement tabs formed around the article receiving opening RT1, RT2. The annular series of engagement tabs comprises at least one first tab 46B and at least one second tab 46C. At least one first tab 46B is hinged in part to the upper panel 14 and is hinged in part to at least one shoulder panel 18S, 20S. At least one first tab 46B has a first radial length LT1. At least one second tab 46C is hinged only to the upper panel 14 and has a second radial length LT. The first radial length LT1 is greater than the second radial length LT.

[0131] Optionally, at least one first tab 46B is hinged to the upper panel 14 and at least one shoulder panel 18S, 20S by a first fold line 42. The first fold line 42 may extend from the upper panel 14 to at least one shoulder panel 18S, 20S.

[0132] Optionally, at least one shoulder panel 18S, 20S is hinged to the upper panel 14 by shoulder panel fold lines 17, 19, and the shoulder panel fold lines 17, 19 are interrupted by at least one first tab 46B.

[0133] Optionally, at least one first tab 46B is asymmetric with respect to a radially extending conceptual line nn, as shown in Figure 1B, which passes through the midpoint of a first fold line 42 to which at least one first tab 46B is hinged to the upper panel 14 and at least one shoulder panel 18S, 20S.

[0134] Optionally, at least one first tab 46B is adjacent to a third tab 46A which is hinged to at least one shoulder panel 18S, 20S.

[0135] Optionally, the third tab 46A has a third radial length LT2 that is greater than the second radial length LT.

[0136] Optionally, a third tab 46A is partially formed from at least one shoulder panel 18S, 20S.

[0137] Optionally, at least one first tab 46B includes a pair of first tabs 46B with a third tab 46A positioned between them.

[0138] A small amount of adhesive may be used to fasten the side panels 18, 20 to articles B, B1, and B2. A specific example of adhesive is Swift® melt 7044, manufactured by HB Fuller. The use of a small amount of adhesive is optional, and the advantage of a small amount of adhesive is its tendency to remain attached to the carrier 90 when articles B, B1, and B2 are disengaged from the carrier 90 (which may be preferable to leaving the adhesive attached to articles B, B1, and B2). In alternative embodiments, but not limited to, other adhesives such as hot melt adhesives may be used.

[0139] It can be understood that various modifications can be made within the scope of the present invention. For example, the size and shape of the panels and openings can be adjusted to accommodate articles of different sizes or shapes. Shoulder panels may be omitted. The present invention is not limited to a top-engaging type carton, and the present invention may be used in other carton forms, such as open-top wooden boxes, lidded or closed-top wooden boxes, etc.

[0140] It should be recognized that references to directions such as “up,” “down,” “bottom,” “front,” “back,” “edge,” “side,” “inward,” “outward,” “upward,” and “downward,” as used herein, do not necessarily limit each panel to such orientations, but may merely serve to distinguish these panels from one another.

[0141] As used herein, the terms “hinge connection” and “fold line” refer to all modes of lines that define the hinge characteristics of a blank, facilitate the folding of parts of the blank toward each other, or otherwise indicate the optimal place to fold a panel toward the blank. A reference to “hinge connection” should not necessarily be interpreted as referring only to a single fold line; in fact, a hinge connection may be formed from two or more fold lines, each of which may be straight / linear or curved / curved. Straight fold lines may be positioned parallel to each other or slightly oblique to each other when forming a hinge connection. Curved fold lines may intersect each other when forming a hinge connection to define a panel formed within the area enclosed by the curved fold lines. A typical example of such a hinge connection may consist of a pair of arched or bowed fold lines that intersect at two points to define an elliptical panel between them. A hinged connection may be formed from one or more straight folds and one or more curved folds. A typical example of such a hinged connection may include a combination of a straight fold and an arched or curved fold that intersects at two points to define a crescent-shaped panel between them.

[0142] As used herein, the term “fold line” can refer to any of the following: perforation lines, embossing lines, debossing lines, punching lines, short slit lines, half-cut lines, single half-cuts, broken cuts, rows of slits, perforation lines, and any combination of these options.

[0143] It should be understood that hinge connections and fold lines may each include elements formed on the blank substrate, including perforations, perforation lines, short slit lines, half-cut lines, single half-cuts, cuts, interrupted cuts, slits, perforations, embossed lines, debossed lines, and any combination thereof. The elements may be sized and arranged to provide the desired functionality. For example, perforation lines may be sized or designed with some degree of weakness to define fold lines and / or cut lines. Perforation lines may be designed to facilitate folding while resisting tearing, to facilitate folding while allowing tearing with greater force, or to allow tearing with less force.

[0144] The phrase “registered with” as used herein refers to the alignment of two or more elements in an upright carton, such as an opening formed in a first of two overlapping panels and a second opening formed in a second of two overlapping panels. Those elements that are registered with each other may be aligned with each other in the direction of the thickness of the overlapping panels. For example, when an opening in the first panel is “registered with” a second opening in the second panel which is arranged in an overlapping configuration with the first panel, the edge of the opening may extend along at least a portion of the edge of the second opening and may be aligned with the second opening in the direction of the thickness of the first and second panels. [Explanation of symbols]

[0145] 10 Blank 12, 16, 22A, 22B, 24A, 24B, 26A, 26B, 30A, 30B end straps 12. First end panel 14 Main panel, upper panel 16. Second end strap, second end panel 17. Shoulder panel fold line 17A Fold line 18. First side panel 18S First outer shoulder panel 19. Shoulder panel fold line 19A Fold line 20. Second side panel 20S Second outer shoulder panel Fold lines 21A, 21B, 23A, 23B, 25A, 25B, 27A, 27B, 29A, 29B, 31A, 31B, 33A, 33B, 35A, 35B 22A First end strap, first corner panel 22B First end strap, second corner panel 24A Second end strap, third corner panel 24B Second end strap, fourth corner panel 26A First end strap, first fixing panel 26B First end strap, second fixing panel 28A First gusset panel 28B Second gusset panel 30A Second end strap, third fixing panel 30B Second end strap, fourth fixing panel 32A Third gusset panel 32B Fourth gusset panel 42 First fold line 46A First complete tooth, third tab 46B Second complete tooth, first tab 46C Third complete tooth, second tab 56A, 56B, 56C recess 90 cartons, carrier A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8, A9 opening B, B1, B2 Goods C. Joint, edge d1 Width dimensions and diameter of openings A1, A2, A7, A8 d2 Width and diameter of the item 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 width of the upper closing section of item B1 D NS Diameter and width of the upper closing part T of item B2 E1 Engagement edge F flange LT: Third maximum radial dimension, second radial length LT1 Second maximum radial dimension, first radial length LT2 First maximum radial dimension, third radial length Main body of item B1 M S Main body of item B2 N, N S neck nn conceptual line RT1 First Article Holding Structure RT2 Second Article Holding Structure T upper part, upper closure part xx Second conceptual line yy The first conceptual line

Claims

1. An article engagement carrier for packaging at least one article, An upper panel having at least one article engagement feature, At least one shoulder panel is hinged to the upper panel and positioned diagonally to the upper panel, Equipped with, The article engagement carrier comprises an article receiving opening and a series of annular engagement tabs formed around the article receiving opening, wherein the series of annular engagement tabs comprises at least one first tab and at least one second tab, the at least one first tab being partially hinged to the upper panel and partially hinged to at least one shoulder panel, the at least one first tab having a first radial length, the at least one second tab being hinged only to the upper panel and having a second radial length, the first radial length being greater than the second radial length, and the at least one first tab and the at least one second tab being separated by a slit.

2. The article carrier according to claim 1, wherein the at least one first tab is hinged to the upper panel and the at least one shoulder panel by a first fold line, the first fold line extending from the upper panel to the at least one shoulder panel.

3. The article carrier according to claim 1, wherein the at least one shoulder panel is hinged to the upper panel by a shoulder panel fold line, and the shoulder panel fold line is interrupted by the at least one first tab.

4. The article carrier according to claim 1, wherein the at least one first tab is asymmetrical with respect to a radially extending conceptual line passing through the midpoint of a first fold line to which the at least one first tab is hinged to the upper panel and the at least one shoulder panel.

5. The article carrier according to claim 1, wherein the annular series of engaging tabs further comprises at least one third tab, the at least one first tab being adjacent to the at least one third tab which is hinged to only the at least one shoulder panel.

6. The article carrier according to claim 5, wherein at least one third tab has a third radial length greater than the second radial length.

7. The article carrier according to claim 5, wherein the at least one third tab is partially formed from the at least one shoulder panel.

8. The article carrier according to claim 5, wherein the at least one first tab comprises a pair of first tabs arranged with the at least one third tab in between.

9. A blank for forming an item carrier, An upper panel having at least one article engagement feature, At least one shoulder panel is hinged to the upper panel and positioned diagonally to the upper panel when the blank is upright to form an article carrier, Equipped with, The blank comprises an article receiving opening and a series of annular engaging tabs formed around the article receiving opening, wherein the series of annular engaging tabs comprises at least one first tab and at least one second tab, the at least one first tab being partially hinged to the upper panel and partially hinged to at least one shoulder panel, the at least one first tab having a first radial length, the at least one second tab being hinged only to the upper panel and having a second radial length, the first radial length being greater than the second radial length, and the at least one first tab and the at least one second tab being separated by a slit.

10. The blank according to claim 9, wherein the at least one first tab has a maximum radial length and a minimum radial length, the first radial length being the maximum radial length.

11. The blank according to claim 10, wherein the minimum radial length of the at least one first tab is generally equal to the second radial length of the at least one second tab.

12. The blank according to claim 10, wherein the at least one first tab has opposing side edges, and the at least one first tab has the maximum radial length along one of the opposing side edges.

13. The blank according to claim 12, wherein the at least one first tab has the minimum radial length along the other of the opposing side edges.

14. The blank according to claim 13, wherein the at least one first tab has a radial size that gradually decreases from one of the opposing side edges toward the other of the opposing side edges.

15. The blank according to claim 10, wherein the at least one first tab has opposing side edges, and the at least one first tab has the minimum radial length along one of the opposing side edges.

16. The blank according to claim 15, wherein one of the opposing side edges of the at least one first tab is adjacent to the at least one second tab.

17. The blank according to claim 9, wherein the annular series of engaging tabs further comprises at least one third tab, the at least one first tab being adjacent to the at least one third tab which is hinged to only the at least one shoulder panel.

18. The blank according to claim 17, wherein at least one third tab has a third radial length greater than the second radial length.

19. The blank according to claim 17, wherein the at least one third tab is partially formed from the at least one shoulder panel.

20. The blank according to claim 17, wherein the at least one first tab comprises a pair of first tabs arranged with the at least one third tab in between.

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