IMPROVEMENTS IN OR RELATED TO CONTAINER CARRIERS.

Abstract

A clip-type carrier for packaging articles of the type having a flange, cord, edge, notch, waist, or the like. The carrier comprises a first layer having a plurality of generally circular openings and a second layer having a plurality of corresponding locking openings. The locking openings are provided with a plurality of locking tabs for engaging beneath the flange of an article in use. An added effective opening diameter, which is approximately the generally circular opening less twice the thickness of the locking tabs, is larger than the diameter of the container flange, causing the formation of a reinforcing flange on the periphery of the generally circular opening once applied.

Description

IMPROVEMENTS IN OR RELATED TO CONTAINER CARRIERS The present invention relates generally to container carriers and, in particular, though not exclusively, to clip-type carriers for securely holding containers together, and to machines, methods, and systems for applying container carriers to containers. It is well known to pack containers together using a carrier. Such carriers (sometimes called carrier material) are often formed from a plastic film with a plurality of openings, for example, as described in documents US2874835, US4250682, and US2936070. Another type of carrier is known as a clip-type carrier, in which a sheet of flexible material is attached to the underside of a rim / edge of an item such as a can or bottle. The present invention attempts to provide improvements in, or related to, carriers. One aspect of the present invention provides a carrier for packaging articles of the type having a flange or the like, comprising a first layer having a plurality of openings and a second layer having a plurality of respective locking openings, the locking openings being provided with one or more locking tabs for engaging under the flange of an article in use, wherein the layers are formed separately and are or can be fastened together. The openings in the first layer can generally be ellipsoidal. Another aspect provides a carrier for packaging articles of the type having a flange or similar, comprising a first layer having a plurality of openings and a second layer having a plurality of respective locking openings, the locking openings being provided with one or more locking tabs to engage under the flange of an article in use, wherein the openings of the first layer are generally ellipsoidal. The first and second layers can be formed separately and can be attached or fastened together. Carriers formed according to the present invention may use crenellations in the second layer of the locking ring to support the vessel beneath the flange. Embodiments may be based on the use of an additional first-layer clamping ring that improves vessel retention by restricting flexing of the crenellations and providing additional grip during handling. In aspects and embodiments with generally elliptical openings, the major axis of the elliptical openings in the first layer can generally be parallel to a longitudinal axis of the carrier. The major axis of the elliptical apertures in the first layer can generally be parallel to a theoretical longitudinal axis of carrier application (which may or may not be the same as the longitudinal axis of the carrier). Elliptical openings can, for example, be used to allow the carrier to screw into place (as opposed to, for example, simple axial placement). It may, for instance, be preferable for the elliptical openings of the first layer to fit as closely as possible to the tops of the second layer's containers / battlements when positioned to provide the battens with maximum retention / support once applied. If the carrier screws into the containers, for example, it will follow the circular arc of an application drum and, as a result, has the effect of shortening the opening in the application direction. Therefore, to achieve the closest possible fit of the first layer relative to the second layer, the use of the ellipse, in the application direction, facilitates this fit while still allowing clearance for the opening to pass over the rear edge of the container as it is applied. In some embodiments, the degree of ellipticity (the degree of deviation from circularity) is small / slight. This ensures that the benefit of the elliptical openings is present for the application without significantly affecting the watertightness of the grip provided by the upper openings around the crenellations in use. In one embodiment, for example, the ellipse has a minor axis of approximately 54.25 mm and a major axis of 55 mm, e.g., approximately 1.38% difference. Some aspects and realizations are based on the use of a roller drum to apply carriers. The range of drum sizes can be as follows: smallest diameter drum = 528 mm; largest diameter drum = 4356 mm. / Q / frLn / Pznz / q / YiAi Based on these drum sizes, for example, the maximum range of the ellipse is approximately: Smaller = larger diameter 0.5% larger than the smaller diameter e.g., 54.25 mm smaller diameter / 54.52 mm larger diameter Larger = larger diameter 34.3% larger than smaller diameter e.g., 54.25 mm smaller diameter / 72.85 mm larger diameter Note: the top diameter of the can used for these calculations is approximately 54 mm. A smaller diameter container can have approximately 32 mm in bottles. In some embodiments of the present invention, the range may be: 0.5% to 10% increase of the major axis relative to the minor axis, for example 1% to 5%. In some embodiments, the first layer is a top or upper layer / sheet / panel. In some embodiments, the second layer is a lower or bottom layer / sheet / panel. In some embodiments, the openings in the second layer are generally circular, that is, they can have a theoretical circular shape, although they may be crenellated. In some embodiments, the locking tab(s) may be a folding flap. Openings in the first layer may, for example, provide a folding point for the locking tabs. The tabs may protrude from the second layer upwards and through the openings in the first layer. The first and second layers can be joined, adhered, or glued together, for example, forming a two-layer bonded laminate. The first and second layers cannot be moved relative to each other. This principle can be used to create a carrier that requires no gluing or handling during application. In some versions, the first and second layers are made of the same material. Materials, including paper, plastics, cardboard, cornstarch or potato starch, can be used to form generally flat and smooth carrier layers. In some versions, for example, the first and / or second layers are made of cardboard material. Some realizations, for example, are formed as a / Q / frLn / Pznz / q / YiAi style ring carrier made of 100% cardboard. In other embodiments, the first and second layers can be made of different materials. This allows, for example, the two layers to provide different properties. It will be understood that some embodiments are restricted to the use of two layers, but other embodiments may include more than two layers. The openings in the first layer can be sized to fit snugly around the locking tabs of the second layer in use. This provides resistance against flexing of the tabs in use, reducing the possibility of unwanted release / detachment of containers. The material of the first and second layers can generally have the same thickness, or they can have different thicknesses. In one embodiment, for example, both sheets have a thickness of approximately 0.35 mm. The openings can be sized to fit under a flange, notch, edge or the like formed on a container, such as a can (including standard beverage cans or slim or thin cans) or a bottle. / Q / frLn / Pznz / q / YiAi Examples of standard cans: UNIT SIZE HEIGHT CLOSED BODY DIAMETER FINAL SIZE (DIAMETER) 330 ml 115.2 mm 66.3 mm 202 440 ml 149.9 mm 66.2 mm 202 500 ml 168 mm 66.2 mm 202 568 ml 188.1 mm 66.2 mm 202 Examples of slim cans: UNIT SIZE HEIGHT BODY DIAMETER FINAL SIZE CLOSED (DIAMETER) 150 ml 88.5 mm 53.3 mm 200 200 ml 111.2 mm 53.3 mm 200 250 ml 134 mm 53.3 mm 200 Examples of thin cans: SIZE HEIGHT DIAMETER OF FINAL UNIT SIZE CLOSED BODY (DIAMETER) 250 mm 113.9 mm 58.1 mm 202 SIZE HEIGHT DIAMETER OF THE FINAL UNIT SIZE CLOSED BODY (DIAMETER) 330 mi 145.4 mm 58.1 mm 202 355 mi 156.9 mm 57.6 mm 202 450 mi 168 mm 63.5 mm 202 473 mi 173.5 mm 63.5 mm 202 473 mi 173.5 mm 63.5 mm 206 591 mi 193.7 mm 66.2 mm 206 / Q / frLn / Pznz / q / YiAi Other examples of can sizes are: Can size Final diameter Final diameter Body diameter Body diameter Body diameter Allura tin size Diam of Can height Can size Can height Can size Can body height End diameter Final diameter In some embodiments, the carrier comprises two (or more) parallel rows of openings. In some embodiments, one or more handling openings and / or cuts are provided between the rows and / or at the ends / sides of the carrier to save weight. In some embodiments, the carrier layers can be formed by rotary die-cutting; in other embodiments, punch cutting can be used, for example. Another manufacturing method, including additive manufacturing, can be used. In some embodiments, the openings in the second layer may be crenellated to provide the locking tabs. The first and / or second layers can be formed as sheets 15 that are generally rectangular or generally square. In some embodiments, the carrier may also include one or more advertising panels formed along one or more sides of the first and / or second layer. In some embodiments, the carrier may also include a handle. Some embodiments may also include a cover film, for example to cover the first layer. The outer film can be peelable, allowing it to be removed from the first layer in use. Easy separation could be helpful for improving recyclability when mixed materials are present. The cover film may have antimicrobial properties. The present invention also provides a continuous strip of a plurality of carriers as described herein, i.e., a plurality of carriers can be formed together and then separated before or at the point of application. A carrier strip may, for example, include perforations to separate the carriers. The strip can be formed in a folding fan format or folded into a fan shape. The present invention also provides a bottle carrier or multipack bottle comprising a carrier as described herein. The present invention also provides a carrier as described herein in combination with a plurality of containers to form a multipack; for example a pack of 4 cans of 500 ml. The carrier may be suitable or adapted to screw onto containers. The carrier may be suitable or adapted to be pushed / pressed onto containers. The present invention also provides a method for applying unifying clip-type container carriers to containers on a flange, comprising the steps of: providing an application station comprising a roller drum that applies carriers to containers in a threaded manner; providing a conveyor system for transporting the containers and feeding them to and through the application station; clip-type carriers having multiple openings for clamping multiple containers; and the roller drum in use receiving carriers from a supply system and threading them onto the containers so that the tabs engage under the flanges. This method allows the carriers to be applied using a continuous product threading method. Clip-type container carriers may comprise carriers as described herein. The conveyor system may include a track drive to synchronize the position of the containers with a roller drum. The track drive can be attached to the sides of the containers and allows their position to be monitored relative to the openings of a waiting carrier. This ensures that the movement of the containers matches the rotation of the application drum. Furthermore, the track drive can be used to hold the containers in position as they pass through the application station. In some embodiments, the carriers can be pre-separated; however, in other embodiments, the carriers can also be separated at the application station. For example, the roller drum may include a separating means, such as cutting blades, for separating the carriers. In embodiments with a track mechanism or similar, the drive can also be used to hold the containers when the carrier is separated from the subsequent carrier in a continuous flow. Some aspects and realizations provide or relate to a cardboard-based carrier. One or more openings in the first layer (e.g., the top layer) can generally be ellipsoidal. One or more openings in the first layer (e.g., the top layer) can generally be circular. One or more openings in the second layer (e.g., the bottom one) can generally be ellipsoidal. One or more openings in the second layer (e.g., the bottom one) can generally be circular. Ellipsoidal openings can, for example, be useful to assist in a method of applying threading carriers. In some embodiments, a simple downward thrust application method can be used, which may negate the need for ellipsoidal openings. / Q / frLn / Pznz / q / YiAi This can, for example, open up the opportunity to use smaller circular openings in the top sheet. This has the benefit of creating an even stronger grip on the container (e.g., the tops of cans). In some aspects and embodiments, the diameter of the openings in the top sheet (the first layer) of material is reduced. For example, the diameter of the openings in the top sheet may be undersized, that is, deliberately smaller than the diameter of the part of the container through which they must pass. One aspect of the present invention provides a carrier for packaging articles of the type having a flange or the like, comprising a first layer having a plurality of circular openings and a second layer having a plurality of respective locking openings, the locking openings being provided with one or more locking tabs for engaging under the flange of an article in use, wherein the aggregated openings formed by the circular openings and the locking tab material are smaller than the flange of the packaging article, causing the formation of a folded opening flange on the periphery of the circular openings once applied. Another aspect provides a clip-type carrier for packaging articles of the type having a flange, edge, waist, notch, or the like, comprising a first layer having a plurality of generally circular openings and a second layer having a plurality of respective locking openings, the locking openings being provided with a plurality of locking tabs that fold through the generally circular openings and engage with the flange of an article or the like during use, wherein the inner periphery of the circular openings is formed or configured to provide a reinforcing flange that supports the locking tabs to resist deformation thereof. In some embodiments, a subtractive aperture diameter of D1 minus twice the thickness of the locking tabs is less than the diameter of the vessel flange. In other words, the effective aperture size, created by the top-layer aperture in combination with the retaining tabs that fold and seat adjacent to the inner periphery of the top-layer aperture, is smaller than the size of the portion of a vessel over which the cumulative aperture must pass. For example, D1 may be larger than D2, or D1 / Q / frLn / Pznz / q / YiAi may be equal to or smaller than D2, but then the inclusion of the retaining tabs reduces the effective aperture size to greater than D2. In some embodiments D1 - 2T < D2, where D1 is the diameter of the top opening, D2 is the diameter of the vessel flange and T is the thickness of the material of the second layer's locking tabs. In some embodiments, the diameter D1 of the circular openings is dimensioned according to the formula D1 < D2 - at least 2T, where D2 is the diameter of the vessel flange and T is the thickness of the material of the second layer's locking tabs. In some aspects and embodiments, carriers are provided that use a generally circular opening in the first layer, ranging from the size of the can top (e.g., 54 mm) to the size of the can top minus approximately twice the thickness of the cardboard used (e.g., 0.25 mm = approximately 53.5 mm). In effect, as the carrier is pushed down onto the can top, there are two thicknesses of material (i.e., each side of the top opening) that must be passed through, and therefore the resulting opening is actually smaller than the combined size of the can top and the material it has to pass through. Another benefit of using such a narrow opening is the ability to replace the cans that are removed. In some embodiments, the circular openings are sized (using the formula: D1 < D2 - 2T) to result in the formation of a ridge / fold / fillet when applied, which significantly improves retention. D2 is the diameter of the top of the container; D1 is the diameter of the opening; T is the thickness of each of the locking lugs. The range of opening sizes can, for example, generally be defined by the following: D1 - 2T < D2 D2 > D1 - 2T D1 = D2 + 4t D1 = D2 - 4t or D1 = D2 + / -4t In some embodiments, the openings in the top layer, when combined with the thickness of the locking lugs that fold through it, / Q / frLn / Pznz / q / YiAi have an aggregate diameter that is less than the diameter of the container over which the carrier will pass. The openings in the top layer can be roughly defined by one or more of the following: D1 < D2 D1 < D2 - 0.5T D1 < D2 - T D1 < D2 - 2T D1 < D2 - 4T In some embodiments, the carrier can be formed according to the principle that D1 - 2T (the size of the added opening) must be smaller than D2. In other words, the container must have a dimension (D2) that is larger than the size of the added opening; this difference in dimensions causes the formation of a folded flange around the periphery of the opening in the top layer. In effect, the added opening is too small to fit over D2, and consequently, the flange of the opening is deformed. In the axial direction, D2 could be present at any point on the vessel along the length over which the carrier passes to achieve an applied condition. For example, D2 could be provided by a flange or similar feature and / or by a side wall. Some embodiments, for example, have a flange and then a tapered / inclined wall section; the flange and / or a point on the wall could provide D2. The opening cord, once formed, can help prevent deformation of the retaining fins / lugs. References to D1 and / or T and / or D2 may be with respect to applied and / or non-applied dimensions. Another aspect provides a carrier for packaging articles of the type having a flange or similar, comprising a first layer having a plurality of circular openings and a second layer having a plurality of respective locking openings, the locking openings being provided with one or more locking tabs to engage under the flange of an article in use, wherein the circular openings are smaller than the combination of the flange of the packaging article and the material of the locking tab through which it passes, causing the formation of a folded / deformed / pleated opening flange / Q / frLn / Pznz / q / YiAi at the periphery of the opening once applied. Another aspect provides a clip-type carrier for packaging articles of the type having a flange, edge, waist, notch, or the like, comprising a first layer having a plurality of generally circular openings and a second layer having a plurality of respective locking openings, the locking openings being provided with a plurality of locking tabs that fold through the generally circular openings and engage with the flange of an article or the like during use, wherein the inner periphery of the circular openings is formed or configured to provide a folded opening flange that supports the locking tabs to resist deformation thereof. Another aspect provides a carrier for packaging articles of the type having a flange or similar, comprising a first layer having a plurality of circular openings and a second layer having a plurality of respective locking openings, the locking openings being provided with one or more locking tabs to engage under the flange of an article in use, wherein the aggregated openings formed by the circular openings and the locking tab material are smaller than the flange of the packaging article, causing the formation of a folded opening flange on the periphery of the circular openings once applied. The folded flange can be formed partially or completely as the carrier is applied, or it can be at least partially preformed. The diameter D1 of the circular openings can be dimensioned according to the formula D1 < D2 minus at least 2T, where D2 is the diameter of the flange of the container and T is the thickness of the material of the second layer. In some realizations D1 = D2 - 4T. The first and second layers can be formed separately and fastened, or they can be fastened together. The first and second layers can, for example, adhere, join or stick together before application or at the time of application. The layers can be held together using repulpable adhesive. The locking tab or each locking tab can be a folding flap. The first and second layers can be made of the same material. The first and second layers can be made up of different / Q / frLn / Pznz / q / YiAi materials. The openings in the first layer can provide a fold point for the locking tabs. The material of the first and second layers can have the same, substantially the same, or different thicknesses. The openings in the second layer may be crenellated to provide locking tabs. The first and / or second layers can be formed from cardboard material. The first and second layers can be sheets that are generally rectangular or square. The carrier may comprise one or more advertising panels formed along one or more sides of the first and / or second layer. The carrier may also include a handle. The carrier may also include a cover film to cover the first layer. The cover film may peel away from the first layer. Another aspect provides a clip-type carrier for packaging articles of the type having a flange, edge, waist, notch, or the like, comprising a first layer having a plurality of generally circular openings and a second layer having a plurality of respective locking openings, the locking openings being provided with a plurality of locking tabs that fold through the generally circular openings and engage with the flange of an article or the like during use, wherein the first and / or second layer includes one or more folds forming panels or flaps. The fold may include tensioning means to cause tension on it in a folded condition, for example, to hold the fin / panel in the folded condition. Another aspect provides a carrier for joining a plurality of packaging items, the carrier including a plurality of openings for receiving items, wherein the carrier includes a fold forming a panel or flap and wherein the fold includes tensioning means to induce tension therein in order to maintain the flap in a folded condition. The carrier may, for example, be made of cardboard or cardboard material. In other embodiments, the carrier may be made of a plastic material. The carrier may retain items such as cans, bottles, and the like. The present invention also provides a continuous strip of a plurality of carriers as described herein. The strip may comprise perforations for separating the carriers. The strip may be formed in a foldable or fan-folded format. Other aspects and achievements are listed in the following numbered paragraphs. 1. A carrier for packaging articles of the type having a flange or the like, comprising a first layer having a plurality of openings and a second layer having a plurality of respective locking openings, the locking openings being provided with one or more locking tabs for engaging under the flange of an article in use, wherein the layers are formed separately and are or can be fastened together. 2. A carrier as claimed in paragraph 1, wherein the openings of the first layer are generally ellipsoidal. 3. A carrier for packaging articles of the type having a flange or the like, comprising a first layer having a plurality of openings and a second layer having a plurality of respective locking openings, the locking openings being provided with one or more locking tabs for engaging under the flange of an article in use, wherein the openings of the first layer are generally ellipsoidal. 4. A carrier as claimed in paragraph 2 or paragraph 3, wherein the major axis of the elliptical openings in the first layer is generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of the carrier. 5. A carrier as claimed in any of paragraphs 2 to 4, wherein the major axis of the elliptical openings in the first layer is generally parallel to a longitudinal axis of application of the carrier. 6. A carrier as claimed in any of paragraphs 3 to 5, wherein the first and second layers are formed separately and are or can be fastened together. 7. A carrier as claimed in any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the openings of the second layer are generally circular. / Q / frLn / Pznz / q / YiAi 8. A carrier as claimed in any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the locking tab or each locking tab is a folding flap. 9. A carrier as claimed in any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the first and second layers are adhered, joined, or glued together before or at the time of / during application. 10. A carrier as claimed in any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the first and second layers are formed from the same material. 11. A carrier as claimed in any of paragraphs 1 to 9, wherein the first and second layers are formed from different materials. 12. A carrier as claimed in any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the openings in the first layer provide a folding point for the locking tabs. 13. A carrier as claimed in any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the openings in the first layer are sized to fit snugly around the locking tabs in use. 14. A carrier as claimed in any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the material of the first and second layers has a different thickness. 15. A carrier as claimed in any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the openings of the second layer are crenellated to provide locking tabs. 16. A carrier as claimed in any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the first and / or second layers are formed from cardboard material. 17. A carrier as claimed in any of the preceding paragraphs, wherein the first and second layers are generally rectangular or square sheets. 18. A carrier as claimed in any of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising one or more advertising panels formed along one or more sides of the first and / or second layer. 19. A carrier as claimed in any of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising a handle. 20. A carrier as claimed in any of the preceding paragraphs, further comprising a cover film for covering the first layer. 21. A carrier as claimed in paragraph 20, wherein the cover film can be peeled off from the first layer. 22. A continuous strip of a plurality of carriers as claimed in / Q / frLn / Pznz / q / YiAi any preceding paragraph. 23. A strip as claimed in paragraph 22, comprising perforations for separating the carriers. 24. A strip as claimed in paragraph 22 or paragraph 23, shaped in a folding fan format or fan-folded. 25. A method for applying clip-type container carriers to a flange for unitizing containers, comprising the steps of: providing an application station comprising a roller drum that applies carriers to threaded containers; provide a conveyor system to transport the containers and feed them to and through the application station; provide clip-type carriers having multiple openings for holding multiple containers; and the roller drum in use receives carriers from a supply system and pushes them screw onto the containers so that the tabs engage under the flanges. 26. A method of applying carriers as described herein. 27. A thrust plate fitted for applying carriers, comprising retaining clamps for holding the carrier and preventing the corners of the carrier from deforming during application. 28. A clip-type carrier for packaging articles of the type having a flange, cord, edge, or the like, the carrier comprising a first layer having a plurality of circular openings and a second layer having a plurality of respective locking openings, the locking openings being provided with a plurality of locking tabs for engaging under the flange of an article in use, the circular openings being smaller than the combination of the flange of the packaging article and the material of the locking tab through which it passes, causing the formation of a folded opening flange on the periphery of the opening once applied. The different aspects and embodiments of the invention can be used separately or together. Other particular and preferred aspects of the present invention are set forth in the appended independent and dependent claims. The features / Q / frLn / Pznz / q / YiAi of the dependent claims may be combined with the features of the independent claims as appropriate and combined in a manner different from that explicitly stated in the claims. Each aspect may be realized independently of the other aspects or in combination with one or more of the other aspects. The present invention will now be described in more particular detail, by way of example, with reference to the accompanying drawings. The implementation examples are described in sufficient detail to enable those skilled in the art to implement the systems and processes described herein. It is important to understand that implementations can take many alternative forms and should not be interpreted as limited to the examples presented herein. Accordingly, while the embodiments may be modified in various ways and take several alternative forms, the specific embodiments thereof are shown in the drawings and described in detail below by way of example. It is not intended to be limited to the specific forms disclosed. On the contrary, all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives that fall within the scope of the appended claims are to be included. The elements of the exemplary embodiments are systematically indicated with the same reference numbers throughout the drawings and the detailed description, where applicable. Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein should be interpreted in their customary form. It is further understood that terms in common usage should also be interpreted in their customary form in the relevant art and not in an idealized or overly formal sense, unless expressly defined as such herein. In the following description, all indicative terms, such as upper, lower, radially and axially, are used in relation to the drawings and should not be interpreted as limiting the invention. Figure 1 shows a clip-type carrier usually designated as 10. As shown in Figures 2 and 3, the carrier is formed from a first upper layer 20 and a second lower layer 15. Layers 15, 20 have approximately the same generally rectangular outline shape. / Q / frLn / Pznz / q / YiAi The lower layer 15 consists of six (in this embodiment) retaining openings 25a-f, always in two parallel rows of three. Each of the openings 25a-f is generally circular and has on its periphery a plurality of radially extending slots 30 that define a plurality of retaining lugs 35. Along the center of layer 15 are two generally circular holes 40, 42, used as finger holes and also for manipulating the carrier during application. It will be noted that at the ends of the carrier there are semicircular holes 44, 46 because in this embodiment the carrier is formed in a continuous strip with other similar carriers, so the holes at each end are split in two. The top layer 20 consists of six 50a-f openings, arranged in two parallel rows of three and corresponding to the respective 25a-f openings of the first layer. Referring also to Figure 4, in this embodiment, each of the apertures (shown in 50a) is generally elliptical. The major Y-axis of the apertures is shown and runs parallel to the axis of the carrier application X shown in Figure 1. For ease of understanding, a theoretical circular aperture is shown with dotted lines. Again corresponding to the first layer, along the center of layer 20 there are two generally circular holes 55, 57 and the ends of the carrier also have semicircular holes 59, 61. Layers / sheets 15 and 20 are formed separately and held together, in this embodiment by gluing. Therefore, the sheets cannot move relative to each other. The length of the slits in the 25a-f openings means that they extend at least to the edge of the 50a-f openings, as can be seen in Figure 1. Figure 5 shows a 110 carrier of the general type described in relation to Figures 1 to 4 and applied to six standard-sized 170 beverage cans. It will be seen that the tabs 135 are deflected upwards and fit under the edges 175 of the can end. The tabs 135 are prevented from deforming by the openings in the second layer, which effectively act as a collar. Figure 6 illustrates a close-up of an opening 250d with upward-deflected lugs 235 / Q / frLn / Pznz / q / YiAi. Figure 7A shows the first and second layers 320, 315 of a carrier formed according to another embodiment. This embodiment is designed for thin cans or cans with a smaller diameter than a standard can. Unlike standard cans, thin and slender cans typically do not have a pronounced truncated cone-shaped top below a rim (meaning the diameter of the end is very similar to the diameter of the body; typically only slightly larger). As a result, when the cans are placed on a carrier and positioned close together, there is very little carrier material between them. It is also often preferable that they do not protrude, or protrude very little, from the edges of the carrier; otherwise, they cannot be stacked efficiently. The result is that there would be very little carrier material around the cans, increasing the risk of breakage. To address this potential problem, the realization of Figure 7A provides additional material fins 321 ad along each edge of the top layer 320. The principle of the carrier 310 formed by layers 320 and 315 is generally the same as that of the carrier 110 described in relation to Figure 5, for example. Such a carrier 310 is shown applied to six thin beverage cans 370 in Figure 7B. The fins 321 are folded downwards (approximately 90 degrees) so that they generally lie flat against the side of the cans. In this embodiment, the fins are folded during application; in other embodiments, the fins may be pre-folded. In this embodiment, the 350 openings in the top 320 layer are generally circular. Figure 8 shows a carrier 410 formed according to the present invention and applied to six thin cans 470. The carrier 410 is similar to the carrier 310, with fins of additional material 421 provided along each edge. Figure 9 shows a 510 carrier formed according to another embodiment. The 510 carrier is similar to the 410 carrier and is shown applied to thin 570 cans. The folds that form the fins are provided with tensioning means. In this embodiment, for example, the fold line 522 along which the top layer is folded to form the fin includes two elongated elliptical panels / Q / frLn / Pznz / q / YiAi (reminiscent of a marquee shape) 523a, 523b. When the fin is folded, the panels introduce tension at the fold line, which holds the fins in position (i.e., prevents them from lifting / unfolding) and ensures that the fin remains attached to the cans. Figures 10A to 10C illustrate a fold formed according to the present invention. The fold line 622 includes an elongated elliptical panel 623. This places the fold line under tension and provides a stable fold configuration. Figures 11A to 11C show carriers 710, 810, and 910 formed according to other embodiments. Carrier 710 is generally rectangular, and the fins along the longer sides each have two separate elliptical tension panels. Carrier 810 has a single elliptical panel along the fold line of each longer side fin. Carrier 910 has a single elliptical panel along the fold line of each longer side fin and a single elliptical panel forming part of the fold on each shorter side. Figure 12A shows a carrier 1010 formed according to another embodiment. Carrier 1010 is similar to carriers 10 and 110. In this embodiment, the longer sides of the bottom layer extend to form panels 1080a and 1080b, which could be used, for example, as promotional / advertising space. Carrier 1010 is folded along lines 1085a and 1085b to form panels 1080a and 1080b. The 1110 carrier in Figure 12B is similar to the 1010 carrier in Figure 12A, except that only one 1180 panel is provided. Figure 13 shows part of a carrier 1210 formed according to another embodiment, with lugs 1235 located below a can edge 1275. Figures 14A to 14D illustrate a carrier 1310 formed according to another embodiment and shown joining a plurality of cans 1370. Figure 15 shows a carrier 1410 formed according to another embodiment. Carrier 1410 is similar to carrier 10, 110. In this embodiment, a peelable film 1482 is provided and extends along the length of layer 1420. This means that when the carrier is applied (see Figure 16), the tops of the cans 1470 are protected. Because the film 1482 is peelable, it can be easily removed from the cardboard carrier before recycling. / Q / frLn / Pznz / q / YiAi Figure 17 illustrates a method for applying clip-type carriers. The carriers 1510 are provided as a continuous strip 1590, which are brought close and moved on a rotating drum 1595. The drum may, for example, include posts that engage in handling holes. The 1595 drum rolls the carriers onto sets of waiting containers (as opposed to, for example, pushing them down vertically from above). To achieve the closest possible fit of the first layer to the second layer in a roll-up system, elliptical openings (with ellipticity in the direction of application) can be used to facilitate fitting while leaving clearance for the opening to pass over the rear edge of the container as it is applied. The strip may, for example, include perforations, raised lines, or similar features to allow separation before, during, or after application. Figures 18 and 19 show a carrier formed according to another aspect of the present invention. The carrier is formed by a lower layer 1615 and an upper layer 1620. The lower layer 1615 consists of six (in this embodiment) retaining openings 1625, always in two parallel rows of three. Each of the openings 1625 is generally circular and has on its periphery a plurality of radially extending slits 1630 that define a plurality of retaining lugs 1635. The top layer 1620 is formed with openings 1650 corresponding to the respective openings 1625 of the bottom layer 1615. The circular openings 1650 are sized using the formula: D1 < D2 2T to result in the formation of a ridge / fold / fillet 1665 when applied, which significantly improves retention. The 1635 lugs are shown located below a 1675 edge of the can. Drop tests were performed on the smallest diameter opening in the carrier's top layer. The drop tests were conducted on six 500ml cans at a drop distance of approximately 1 meter. These tests were performed on carriers with standard diameter openings of 55 mm, smaller diameter openings of 54 mm, and diameter openings of 53.5 mm, i.e., D1 + 2T > D2; D1 + 2T = D2; and D1 + 2T < D2. For this test, the top of the cans has a diameter of approximately 54 mm and the thickness of the single-layer cardboard is 0.35 mm. The reduction in the opening diameter, 53.5 mm, combined with the cardboard thickness of 2 x 0.35 mm, creates an aggregate opening of only 52.8 mm. This is an interference fit over the top of the cans and may require a precise application method to prevent the non-elastic cardboard from tearing (e.g., see Figures 23 and 24). Opening diameter (mm) Average number of drops 55 7 54 9 53.5 25+ The results show a marked improvement in can retention. This is because the packaging works fundamentally differently. In the designs shown in Figures 1–16, for example, the diameter of the top layer supports the fingers of the lower diameter, helping to prevent them from bending and the package from failing. By further reducing the diameter, it has been found that the extension of the fingers through the top opening is reduced (e.g., approximately 1.9 mm versus 2.75 mm) as a result of the smaller diameter not sitting as low on the tapered top of the can. It also creates a reinforcing bead around the fingers. These shorter fingers are less prone to deformation. The difference lies in the interference fit of the carrier over the can's rim. Once the deformation of the fingers becomes critical, they can no longer support the cans, and package failure occurs.In the undersized, smaller-diameter opening version, due to the interference fit, the deforming fingers prevent the can rim from passing through the carrier opening. Therefore, for the package to fail, the carrier would have to tear. In effect, the revised design achieves a two-stage can retention method. The perception was that reducing the size of the openings even further from the initial design would have a detrimental effect on the package itself. Since there is no stretch available in the cardboard material, it was suspected that the package would split, as had been seen in previous tests. However, surprisingly, the deformation and the resulting cord have actually improved the package's performance, as previously stated. Figure 20A shows a plan view of a top-layer opening 1725. Also shown are retaining fins 1735 folded upwards and through the opening 1725 (as they are in use) and with a thickness T. This forms an aggregate vessel that receives the opening diameter represented as D1 2T in Figure 20B. Figure 20C shows a container (in this embodiment a metal can) with a flange 1775 having a diameter represented as D2. The added diameter D1-2T is less than D2, so that when the carrier is initially applied to the container, the fins 1735 are folded upwards and through the opening 1725, and continued application causes the formation of the folded flange 1765, as shown in Figure 21. Figures 22A and 22B show a comparison of two scenarios: i) D2 is less than or equal to D1 - 2T, in which case no folded flange is formed; and i) D2 is greater than D1 - 2T, in which case a reinforcing flange is formed. Figures 23 and 24: To effectively apply the modified carrier of some embodiments, it has been found that a fitted thrust plate 1800 is required. Furthermore, to prevent the corners of the carrier 1810 from deforming during application, retaining strips 1860 within the tool hold the carrier in place, thus improving application. These strips take the form of hinged clamps mounted along each edge of the 1800 application head / push plate. Before picking up the carrier, the clamps are in a retracted position. As the push plate picks up the individual carrier from a pre-application stack, the clamps move and grip the carrier's edges against the underside of the plate. This provides additional support against the forces created during application, preventing flexing and deformation of the carrier, resulting in a more secure package. These strips can be profiled to avoid contact with the containers during application. Once applied, the retaining strips retract, releasing the applied carrier and allowing the next carrier to be picked up and engaged within the application head; the process then repeats. Figure 25 shows a set of vessels 1905. Each vessel 1905 includes a transfer cord 1906, a conical part 1907, and a waist 1908 / Q / frLn / Pznz / q / YiAi formed in a side wall 1909. A carrier formed according to the present invention could, for example, be configured to fit under the cord 1906, in which case the diameter of the cord 1906 would be D2. Alternatively, a carrier could be configured to fit the waist 1908, in which case the diameter of the side wall 1909 would be D2 (the oversize that causes the formation of the folded flange of the opening). Although illustrative embodiments of the invention have been disclosed in detail in this document, it is understood that the invention is not limited to the precise embodiments shown and that a person skilled in the art may make various changes and modifications to it without departing from the scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A carrier for packaging articles of the type having a flange or the like, comprising a first layer having a plurality of circular openings and a second layer having a plurality of respective locking openings, the locking openings being provided with one or more locking tabs for engaging under the flange of an article in use, wherein the aggregate openings formed by the circular openings and the locking tab material are smaller than the flange of the packaging article, causing the formation of a folded opening flange on the periphery of the circular openings once applied.

2. A clip-type carrier for packaging articles of the type having a flange, edge, waist, notch, or the like, comprising a first layer having a plurality of generally circular openings and a second layer having a plurality of respective locking openings, the locking openings being provided with a plurality of locking tabs that fold through the generally circular openings and engage with the flange of an article or the like during use, wherein the inner periphery of the circular openings is formed or configured to provide a reinforcing flange that supports the locking tabs to resist deformation thereof.

3. A carrier as claimed in claim 2, wherein the flange is formed as the carrier is applied.

4. A carrier as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein a subtractive opening diameter of D1 less twice the thickness of the locking tabs is less than the diameter of the vessel flange.

5. A carrier as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein D1 - 2T < D2, where D1 is the diameter of the top opening, D2 is the diameter of the flange of the container and T is the thickness of the material of the locking tabs of the second layer.

6. A carrier as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the diameter D1 of the circular openings is dimensioned according to the formula D1 < D2 - at least 2T, where D2 is the diameter of the flange of the container and T is the thickness of the material of the locking tabs of the second layer.

7. A carrier as claimed in claim 6, wherein D1 = D2 - / Q / frLn / Pznz / q / YiAi 4T.

8. A carrier as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the first and second layers are formed separately and are or can be fastened together.

9. A carrier as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the first and second layers are adhered, joined, or glued before or at the time of application.

10. A carrier as claimed in claim 9, wherein the layers are bonded together using repulpable adhesive.

11. A carrier as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the locking tab or each locking tab is a folding flap.

12. A carrier as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the first and second layers are formed from the same material.

13. A carrier as claimed in any of claims 1 to 11, wherein the first and second layers are formed from different materials.

14. A carrier as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the openings in the first layer provide a folding point for the locking tabs.

15. A carrier as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the material of the first and second layers has a different thickness.

16. A carrier as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the openings of the second layer are crenellated to provide locking tabs.

17. A carrier as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the first and / or second layers are formed from cardboard material.

18. A carrier as claimed in any preceding claim, wherein the first and second layers are generally rectangular or generally square sheets.

19. A carrier as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising one or more advertising panels formed along one or more sides of the first and / or second layer.

20. A carrier as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising a handle. / Q / frLn / Pznz / q / YiAi 21. A carrier as claimed in any preceding claim, further comprising a cover film for covering the first layer.

22. A carrier as claimed in claim 21, wherein the cover film can be peeled off from the first layer.

23. A clip-type carrier for packaging articles of the type having a flange, edge, waist, notch, or the like, comprising a first layer having a plurality of generally circular openings and a second layer having a plurality of respective locking openings, the locking openings being provided with a plurality of locking tabs that fold through the generally circular openings and engage with the flange of an article or the like during use, wherein the first and / or second layer includes one or more folds forming panels or flaps.

24. A carrier as claimed in claim 23, wherein the fold includes tensioning means for causing tension therein in a folded state.

25. A continuous strip of a plurality of carriers as claimed in any preceding claim.

26. A strip as claimed in claim 25, comprising perforations for separating the carriers.

27. A strip as claimed in claim 25 or claim 26, shaped in a folding fan format or folded into a fan.

28. A carrier as claimed in any of claims 1 to 25 in combination with one or more packaging articles.

29. A carrier for joining a plurality of packaging articles, the carrier including a plurality of openings for receiving articles, wherein the carrier includes a fold forming a panel or flap and wherein the fold includes tensioning means for applying tension thereon in order to maintain the flap in a folded condition.

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