Carrier for containers

Abstract

A carrier for holding a plurality of containers may comprise an attachment panel and a plurality of container receiving features defined in the attachment panel for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers. Each container receiving feature may include a respective container cover panel separably connected to the attachment panel by a connection member. Each cover panel may be positioned to at least partially cover a top portion of a respective container of the plurality of containers. The connection member may be serpentine shaped. The attachment panel may be a first attachment panel with a second attachment panel in at least partial face-to-face contact with the first attachment panel. The second attachment panel may include a second plurality of container receiving features with container receiving openings and container retention tabs.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 762,217 filed on Feb. 24, 2025.INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0002] The disclosure of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 762,217, filed on Feb. 24, 2025 is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes as if presented herein in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to carriers for holding, displaying, and / or transporting containers.BACKGROUND

[0004] Conventional packaging systems for multiple containers may require separate packaging materials or complex assembly processes that can increase manufacturing costs and handling time. Some conventional carriers may not provide adequate protection for container tops or may lack secure retention features to prevent containers from becoming dislodged during transport or handling.

[0005] Traditional container packaging approaches may also suffer from limited flexibility in accommodating different container sizes or shapes, potentially requiring multiple packaging designs for different product configurations. Existing carriers may not provide convenient handling features such as integrated handles, or may require additional manufacturing steps to incorporate such features. These conventional systems may result in increased material usage, manufacturing complexity, and reduced user convenience when transporting or dispensing multiple containers.SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0006] According to one aspect, the disclosure is generally directed to a carrier for holding a plurality of containers. The carrier may comprise an attachment panel and a plurality of container receiving features defined in the attachment panel for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers. Each container receiving feature may include a respective container cover panel separably connected to the attachment panel by a connection member. Each cover panel may be positioned to at least partially cover a top portion of a respective container of the plurality of containers.

[0007] In some embodiments, at least one connection member may be serpentine shaped. The attachment panel may be a first attachment panel and the carrier may further comprise a second attachment panel in at least partial face-to-face contact with the first attachment panel. The plurality of container receiving features may be a first plurality of container receiving features and the carrier may further comprise a second plurality of container receiving features defined in the second attachment panel for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers. Each receiving feature of the second plurality of container receiving features may include a respective container receiving opening. Each receiving feature of the second plurality of container receiving features may include a plurality of container retention tabs arranged to receive and retain a portion of each respective container. The second attachment panel may comprise a first pair of handle tabs and at least one receiving feature of the second plurality of receiving features may include a reinforcement panel in face-to-face contact with the second attachment panel such that a second pair of handle tabs defined in the reinforcement panel may be aligned with the first pair of handle tabs.

[0008] In another aspect, the disclosure may be directed to a blank for forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers. The blank may comprise an attachment panel and a plurality of container receiving features defined in the attachment panel for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers. Each container receiving feature may include a respective container cover panel separably connected to the attachment panel by a connection member. Each cover panel may be positioned to at least partially cover a top portion of a respective container of the plurality of containers. At least one connection member may be serpentine shaped. The attachment panel may be a first attachment panel and the blank may further comprise a second attachment panel in at least partial face-to-face contact with the first attachment panel. The plurality of container receiving features may be a first plurality of container receiving features and the blank may further comprise a second plurality of container receiving features defined in the second attachment panel for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers. Each receiving feature of the second plurality of container receiving features may include a respective container receiving opening. Each receiving feature of the second plurality of container receiving features may include a plurality of container retention tabs arranged to receive and retain a portion of each respective container. The second attachment panel may comprise a first pair of handle tabs and at least one receiving feature of the second plurality of receiving features may include a reinforcement panel in face-to-face contact with the second attachment panel such that a second pair of handle tabs defined in the reinforcement panel may be aligned with the first pair of handle tabs.

[0009] In yet another aspect, the disclosure may be directed to a method of forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers. The method may comprise providing an attachment panel and defining a plurality of container receiving features in the attachment panel for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers. Each container receiving feature may include a respective container cover panel separably connected to the attachment panel by a connection member. Each cover panel may be positioned to at least partially cover a top portion of a respective container of the plurality of containers. At least one connection member may be serpentine shaped. The attachment panel may be a first attachment panel and the method may further comprise providing a second attachment panel in at least partial face-to-face contact with the first attachment panel. The plurality of container receiving features may be a first plurality of container receiving features and the method may further comprise defining a second plurality of container receiving features in the second attachment panel for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers. Each receiving feature of the second plurality of container receiving features may include a respective container receiving opening. Each receiving feature of the second plurality of container receiving features may include a plurality of container retention tabs arranged to receive and retain a portion of each respective container. The second attachment panel may comprise a first pair of handle tabs and at least one receiving feature of the second plurality of receiving features may include a reinforcement panel in face-to-face contact with the second attachment panel such that a second pair of handle tabs defined in the reinforcement panel may be aligned with the first pair of handle tabs.

[0010] In a further aspect, the disclosure may be directed to a package comprising a carrier for holding a plurality of containers and the plurality of containers held by the carrier. The carrier may comprise an attachment panel and a plurality of container receiving features defined in the attachment panel for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers. Each container receiving feature may include a respective container cover panel separably connected to the attachment panel by a connection member. Each cover panel may be positioned to at least partially cover a top portion of a respective container of the plurality of containers. At least one connection member may be serpentine shaped. The attachment panel may be a first attachment panel and the carrier may further comprise a second attachment panel in at least partial face-to-face contact with the first attachment panel. The plurality of container receiving features may be a first plurality of container receiving features and the carrier may further comprise a second plurality of container receiving features defined in the second attachment panel for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers. Each receiving feature of the second plurality of container receiving features may include a respective container receiving opening. Each receiving feature of the second plurality of container receiving features may include a plurality of container retention tabs arranged to receive and retain a portion of each respective container. The second attachment panel may comprise a first pair of handle tabs and at least one receiving feature of the second plurality of receiving features may include a reinforcement panel in face-to-face contact with the second attachment panel such that a second pair of handle tabs defined in the reinforcement panel may be aligned with the first pair of handle tabs.

[0011] Those skilled in the art will appreciate the above stated advantages and other advantages and benefits of various additional embodiments reading the following detailed description of the embodiments with reference to the below-listed drawing figures. It is within the scope of the present disclosure that the above-discussed aspects be provided both individually and in various combinations.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0012] According to common practice, the various features of the drawings discussed below are not necessarily drawn to scale. Dimensions of various features and elements in the drawings may be expanded or reduced to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 1A is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank for forming a carrier according to a first embodiment of the disclosure.

[0014] FIG. 1B is an enlarged view of a portion of the blank of FIG. 1A.

[0015] FIG. 1C is an enlarged view of another portion of the blank of FIG. 1A.

[0016] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a container of a type for use with carriers and packages according to the present disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 1A that has received four containers, according to the first embodiment of the disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 4A is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank for forming a carrier according to a second embodiment of the disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 4B is an enlarged view of a portion of the blank of FIG. 4A.

[0020] FIG. 5 and 6 are views of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 4A that has received a plurality of containers according to the second embodiment of the disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 7A is a plan view of a blank for forming a carrier according to a third embodiment of the disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 7B is an enlarged view of a portion of the blank of FIG. 7A.

[0023] FIG. 7C is an enlarged view of another portion of the blank of FIG. 7A.

[0024] FIG. 8 is a side-by-side plan view of the blank of FIG. 4A and the blank of FIG. 7A.

[0025] FIG. 9 is a plan view of a modified version of the blank of FIG. 7A.

[0026] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 4A and the blank of FIG. 7A which have received a plurality of containers according to an embodiment of the disclosure.

[0027] Corresponding parts are designated by corresponding reference numbers throughout the drawings.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] In the following description, various embodiments will be described. For purposes of explanation, specific configurations and details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will also be apparent to one skilled in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without the specific details. Furthermore, well-known features may be omitted or simplified in order not to obscure the embodiment being described.

[0029] Techniques disclosed herein relate generally to container packaging systems. More specifically, techniques disclosed herein relate to carriers for holding multiple containers that can provide secure container retention with both effective top coverage and convenient handling features. The carriers may include attachment panels with container receiving features that incorporate cover panels connected by connection members to provide container packaging solutions. Various inventive embodiments are described herein, including carriers, blanks, methods of formation, packages, and the like.

[0030] In order to better appreciate the features and aspects of the present disclosure, further context for the disclosure is provided in the following section by discussing one particular implementation of a carrier that includes container receiving features according to embodiments of the disclosure. These embodiments are for explanatory purposes only and other embodiments may be employed in other container packaging applications. For example, embodiments of the disclosure can be used with any carrier that holds or transports beverage containers, food containers, or other consumer product containers. In some instances, embodiments of the disclosure are particularly well suited for use with multi-container packaging systems because of their potentially efficient material usage and secure retention capabilities.

[0031] The present disclosure relates to carrier systems designed to hold and protect multiple beverage containers such as aluminum cans. The carrier may be formed from paperboard blanks that incorporate specialized retention features and protective cover panels. The carrier may provide secure engagement with container flanges through retention tabs that fold into oblique bracing positions. The carrier may simultaneously protect the top surfaces of containers from environmental contaminants including dirt, debris, microbes, and pests through separable cover panels that remain connected to the carrier via flexible connection members.

[0032] The carrier may be configured in multiple embodiments to accommodate different numbers of containers, such as four containers in a two-by-two arrangement or six containers in a two-by-three arrangement. The carrier may include single-ply or multi-ply construction, with certain embodiments incorporating reinforcement panels that create localized three-ply regions for enhanced structural integrity. The carrier may feature integrated handle elements that may be separated and folded to provide convenient carrying capability. The retention tabs may be positioned at various radial positions around container receiving openings and may deflect upwardly to engage container flanges when containers are inserted through the openings.

[0033] The cover panels may be initially positioned to obscure the container retention openings in the blank form. The cover panels may separate from the attachment panel along curved cuts when containers are inserted, while remaining connected through arm-like connection members that may flex, fold, or twist to accommodate cover panel displacement. The cover panels may then rest atop the container top surfaces within the container flange boundaries to provide a hygienic barrier. The carrier may thus maintain container cleanliness throughout distribution, display, and handling until individual containers are removed by consumers. The multi-ply embodiments may provide additional structural strength through overlapped attachment panels and reinforcement panels that may resist tearing and deformation during package handling and transportation.

[0034] The present disclosure generally relates to carriers, packages, constructs, sleeves, cartons, or the like, for holding and displaying containers such as jars, bottles, cans, etc. The containers can be used for packaging food and beverage products, for example. The containers can be made from materials suitable in composition for packaging the particular food or beverage item, and the materials include, but are not limited to, glass; plastics such as PET, LDPE, LLDPE, HDPE, PP, PS, PVC, EVOH, and Nylon; and the like; aluminum and / or other metals; or any combination thereof.

[0035] Packages according to the present disclosure can accommodate containers of numerous different shapes. For the purpose of illustration and not for the purpose of limiting the scope of the disclosure, the following detailed description describes beverage containers (e.g., generally cylindrical containers such as aluminum cans) at least partially disposed within the package embodiments. In this specification, the terms “lower,”“bottom,”“upper” and “top” indicate orientations determined in relation to fully erected packages.

[0036] FIG. 1A is a plan view of an exterior surface 101 of a blank 103 for forming a carrier 105 (FIG. 3) according to a first embodiment of the disclosure. FIGS. 1B and 1C are enlarged views of portions of the blank 103. As described further herein, the carrier 105 can be configured for holding / supporting / retaining / receiving a plurality of containers. The carrier 105 can be provided with one or more containers to form a package 107 (FIG. 3).

[0037] As shown in FIG. 3, the carrier 105 is sized to be engaged with or support four containers C, with two containers C being attached to a front portion 106 of the carrier 105 and two containers C being attached to a back portion 108 of the carrier 105. The carrier 105 can be provided with one or more containers C to form a package 107. It will be understood that a different number and / or arrangement of containers C could be provided without departing from the disclosure.

[0038] With momentary reference to FIG. 2, in the illustrated embodiment, the containers C can be beverage cans having a lower base portion B, a top portion T generally comprising a neck N that tapers inwardly from the lower base portion B, a flange or flange portion F at the top of the neck portion that extends upward from the neck portion N, and a top surface TS below the flange portion that includes a pull-tab P. In some embodiments, the flange portion F can have the form of a rolled rim or chime for being engaged by one or more portions of the carrier 105 / package 107, as described further herein. In some embodiments, the containers C could be beverage cans or another suitable type and size of container.

[0039] Referring back to FIG. 1A, the blank 103 has a longitudinal axis L1 and a lateral axis L2. The blank 103 can have an upper or exterior surface 101 opposite a lower or interior surface such that a thickness of the blank 103 and carrier 105 formed therefrom can be at least partially defined from the exterior surface 101 to the interior surface. In one embodiment, the axis L1 can be a lateral axis and the axis L2 can be a longitudinal axis.

[0040] The blank 103 and the carrier 105 formed therefrom can include a plurality of panels that includes a lower central panel or lower attachment panel 121 (broadly, “first attachment panel” or “second attachment panel”) foldably connected to an upper central panel or upper attachment panel 123 (broadly, “first attachment panel” or “second attachment panel”) at a lateral fold line 125.

[0041] The lower attachment panel 121, as shown, includes a plurality of first container receiving features 127 (broadly, “first plurality of container receiving features”, “second plurality of container receiving features”, etc.) that each include a respective container receiving opening 129. The upper attachment panel 123, as shown, can include a plurality of second container receiving features 131 (broadly, “first plurality of container receiving features”, “second plurality of container receiving features”, etc.) that can each include a respective container cover panel 133.

[0042] With additional reference to FIG. 1B, the first container receiving features 127 of the lower attachment panel 121 can include container retention tabs 135 foldably connected to the lower attachment panel 121 at respective lines of weakening 137. A container retention tab 139 can be foldably connected to the lower attachment panel 121 at a respective line of weakening 137, and can have generally the same configuration as the respective container retention tabs 135, though can be provided with a recess or notch 141 formed along a free edge thereof.

[0043] As shown, the lines of weakening 137 can be at least partially curved and can have at least one discontinuity therealong, though a different configuration of lines of weakening could be provided without departing from the disclosure.

[0044] In the illustrated embodiment, the container retention tabs 135, 139 can be positioned at generally 45° radial positions relative to each container receiving opening 129 (using the axes L1, L2 or lines parallel thereto as coordinate axes, e.g., X- and Y-axes). It will be understood that the container retention tabs 135, 139 can have a different orientation without departing from the disclosure.

[0045] Turning to FIG. 1C, the second container receiving features 131 of the upper attachment panel 123 can include container receiving openings 143 (FIG. 3) at least partially obscured by the container cover panels 133 for at least partially receiving a respective portion of a container C. The container receiving openings 143 can at least partially receive a portion of a respective container C, as described further herein.

[0046] The container cover panels 133 can be at least partially separably connected to the upper attachment panel 123 at respective curved cuts 145, and can be connected thereto at respective connection members 147 having generally curved and tapering arm-like configurations. As described further herein, the container cover panels 133 are configured for at least partial separation from the upper attachment panel 123 at the cuts 145, with the connection members 147 extending from the respective container cover panel 133 to the upper attachment panel 123.

[0047] With reference to FIG. 1A, the blank 103 and the carrier 105 formed therefrom can include handle features that include a handle tab 149 at least partially separably connected to the lower attachment panel 121 at a respective generally U-shaped cut 151 and foldably connected thereto at a longitudinal fold line 153. As described further herein, the handle tab 149 can be aligned with a handle opening 155 at least partially defined in the upper attachment panel 123 when the carrier 105 is formed from the blank 103.

[0048] With reference to FIG. 3, in order to form the carrier 105 and package 107, the upper attachment panel 123 can be folded at the fold line 125 into at least partial face-to-face contact with the lower attachment panel 121 such that the interior surfaces of the attachment panels 121, 123 are positioned at least partially contacting one another. In such an arrangement, the container cover panels 133 associated with the upper attachment panel 123 can be generally aligned with the container receiving openings 129 in the lower attachment panel 121.

[0049] The overlapped attachment panels 123, 121 can be lowered onto a group of containers C such that the flange portion F and at least a portion of the neck portion N of a respective container C can be at least partially received through the container receiving openings 129 to contact the container retention tabs 135, 139 and cause them to fold at least partially upwardly at the respective lines of weakening 137.

[0050] In such an arrangement the container retention tabs 135, 139 can obliquely extend, e.g., in a bracing relationship, from the lower attachment panel 121 to a portion of the containers C, e.g., a rolled rim or chime of the containers C associated with the respective flange portion F thereof. In some embodiments, the container retention tabs 135, 139 can be disposed in a generally upward oblique relationship relative to the lower attachment panel 121 so as to tighten the relationship between the containers C and the carrier 105. In some embodiments, the notch 141 (FIG. 1B)

[0051] formed along the container retention tabs 139 can provide flexibility in corner regions where tension may be high during container engagement. The notch 141 may allow the retention tab 139 to open and separate as the tab folds upwardly and locks under the rim of the container C, accommodating material stretching that occurs in high-stress areas during the container retention process.

[0052] Movement of the containers C relative to the attachment panels 121, 123 can further cause the respective containers C to contact an underside of the respective container cover panels 133 and cause the container cover panels 133 to at least partially separate from the upper attachment panel 123 at the respective cuts 145 and rest along the top surface TS of the respective container C within the flange portion F of the respective container C. The container cover panels 133 can remain at least partially connected to the attachment panels 121, 123 by the respective connection members 147 extending from each container cover panel 133 to the upper attachment panel 123. In some embodiments, the connection members 147 can at least partially fold, flex, twist, otherwise manipulate to permit movement of the container cover panels 133 relative to the upper attachment panel 123.

[0053] Such movement of the container cover panels 133 can expose the respective container receiving openings 143 in the upper attachment panel 123 such that the respective containers C are further at least partially received through the container receiving openings 143 of the upper attachment panel 123 aligned with the container receiving openings 129 of the lower attachment panel 121.

[0054] The container cover panels 133 are thus positioned atop the respective containers C so as to provide a buffer between upper portions of the respective containers C received through the respective aligned container receiving openings 143, 129 and a surrounding environment. Such buffer can minimize, inhibit, and / or prevent the incidence of unwanted contact of the top surface TS and / or flange portion F of the containers C with, for example, dirt, debris, microbes, pests, unsanitary objects, etc. The container cover panels 133 can remain at least partially connected to the attachment panels 121, 123 by the respective connection members 147 extending from each container cover panel 133 to the upper attachment panel 123. In some embodiments, the

[0055] connection members 147 can at least partially fold, flex, twist, otherwise manipulate to permit movement of the container cover panels 133 relative to the upper attachment panel 123.

[0056] Accordingly, the container cover panels 133 can be provided to offer protection and at least partial concealment of upper portions of the containers C from a surrounding environment so as to maintain a hygienic condition of the containers C prior to removal from the carrier 105 by a user.

[0057] Furthermore, the two-ply arrangement of the carrier 105 / package 107 provided by the overlapped upper attachment panel 123 and lower attachment panel 121 provides a robust configuration of the carrier 105 / package 107 that can be resistant to tearing or other deformation.

[0058] When it is desired to remove a container C from the carrier 105 / package 107, a user can withdraw such container C through the aligned container receiving openings 129, 143. Such removal may include disengagement of one or more of the container retention tabs 135, 139 from the respective container C.

[0059] A user can lift and / or carry the carrier 105 / package 107 with the handle features thereof. For example, in some embodiments, a user can at least partially insert a portion of their hand, e.g., one or more fingers, through the handle opening 155 in the upper attachment panel 123 to contact the handle tab 149 in the lower attachment panel 121. The handle tab 149 can be at least partially separated from the lower attachment panel 121 at the cut 151 and at least partially folded downwardly at the fold line 153 such that an underside of the lower attachment panel 121 and / or edges thereof are accessible as a gripping surface. In some embodiments, the handle tab 149 can be positioned between a portion of a user’s hand and the carrier 105 / package 107, e.g., for comfort, for strength, to avoid unwanted tearing, etc.

[0060] FIG. 4A is a plan view of an exterior surface 201 of a blank 203 for forming a carrier 205 (FIG. 5) according to a second embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 4B is an enlarged view of a portion of the blank 203. The carrier 205 can be provided with one or more containers C to form a package 207 (FIG. 5).

[0061] As shown in FIG. 5, the carrier 205 is sized to contain or support six containers C, with three containers C attached to a front portion 206 of the carrier 205 and three containers C attached to a back portion 208 of the carrier 205. The carrier 205 can be provided with one or more containers C to form a package 207. It will be understood that a different number and / or arrangement of containers C could be provided without departing from the disclosure.

[0062] Referring to FIG. 4A, the blank 203 has a longitudinal axis L1 and a lateral axis L2. The blank 203 can also have the upper or exterior surface 201 opposite a lower or interior surface such that a thickness of the blank 203 and carrier 205 formed therefrom can be at least partially defined from the exterior surface 201 to the interior surface. In one embodiment, the axis L1 can be a lateral axis and the axis L2 can be a longitudinal axis.

[0063] The blank 203 and the carrier 205 formed therefrom can include an upper attachment panel 221 (broadly “first attachment panel”, “second attachment panel”, etc.) with a plurality of third container receiving features 223 (broadly “first plurality of third container receiving features”, “second plurality of third container receiving features”, etc.) that may include a respective container cover panel 225.

[0064] With additional reference to FIG. 4B, the third container receiving features 223 of the upper attachment panel 221 can include container retention tabs 227 (generally “first container retention tabs” or “second container retention tabs”), each at least partially foldably connected to the upper attachment panel 221 at a respective curved fold line 235. In the illustrated embodiment, the container retention tabs 227 can include a first tab portion 229 separably connected to a second tab portion 231 at a generally straight cut 233, though a different configuration could be provided without departing from the disclosure. The curved fold line 235 can be spaced apart from the cut 233, as shown, though the cut 233 could intersect the curved fold line 235 without departing from the disclosure. In some embodiments, the first tab portion 229 and the second tab portion 231 could be discrete container retention tabs.

[0065] Container retention tabs 237 (generally “first container retention tabs” or “second container retention tabs”, etc.) can each be foldably connected to the upper attachment panel 221 at a generally straight fold line 239.

[0066] In the illustrated embodiment, the third container receiving features 223 surrounding the upper left-most container cover panel 225 (from the perspective of FIG. 4A) can include container retention tabs 227 at generally 0° / 360° and generally 90° radial positions, and can include container retention tabs 237 at generally 180° and generally 270° radial positions (using the axes L1, L2 or lines parallel thereto as coordinate axes, e.g., X- and Y-axes with the 0° angle defined by the negative X (-X) axis and the angle increasing in a clock-wise fashion from the -X axis). .

[0067] The other third container receiving features 223 associated with the blank 203 and the carrier 205 / package 207 formed therefrom can have a different arrangement without departing from the disclosure. For example, the third container receiving features 223 associated with the upper center container cover panel 225 of the blank 203 can include container retention tabs 227 at a generally 90° radial position, and can include container retention tabs 237 at generally 0° / 360°, generally 180°, and generally 270° radial positions. The third container receiving features 223 associated with the upper right container cover panel 225 can include container retention tabs 227 at generally 90° and generally 180° radial positions, and can include container retention tabs 237 at generally 0° / 360° and generally 270° radial positions. The third container receiving features 223 associated with the lower row of container cover panels 225 in the blank 203 and carrier 205 / package 207 formed therefrom can have an arrangement that is generally a mirror image over the longitudinal axis L1 of the third container receiving features 223 associated with the upper row of container cover panels 225 described above. Still further arrangements of container receiving features are contemplated without departing from the disclosure.

[0068] Referring to FIG. 4A, the third container receiving features 223 of the upper attachment panel 221 can include first container receiving openings 241 (FIG. 5) (broadly “first plurality of container receiving openings”, “second plurality of container receiving openings”, etc.) at least partially obscured by the container cover panels 225 for at least partially receiving a respective portion of a container C. The first container receiving openings 241 can at least partially receive a portion of a respective container C, as described further herein.

[0069] Referring to FIG. 4B, the container cover panels 225, as shown, can be connected to the upper attachment panel 221 by respective connection members 243 having generally serpentine-shaped arm-like configurations. Each connection member 243, as shown, can be separably connected to the respective container cover panel 225 at a respective curved cut 245 that includes or intersects a generally radially-outwardly extending (relative to the container cover panel 225) cut 247 that forms a turning segment 249 of the respective connection member 243. A generally bracket-shaped cut 251 can extend towards or at least partially form a boundary with an adjacent container retention tab 227 and can include or intersect a generally straight cut 253 to at least partially define a first extension segment 255 extending to a second extension segment 257 at least partially defined by the cut 253 and a generally L-shaped cut 259. The first extension segment 255 and the second extension segment 257 can together define the serpentine shape of the connection member 243. As described further herein, the container cover panels 225 are configured for at least partial separation from the upper attachment panel 221 at the cuts 245, 261, etc. with the connection members 243 extending from the respective container cover panel 225 to the upper attachment panel 221.

[0070] In this regard, the container cover panels 225 can be connected to the upper attachment panel 221 by the respective connection members 243, and can be separably connected to the respective container retention tabs 227 at a respective cut 261 and to the respective container retention tabs 237 at a respective cut 263.

[0071] With reference to FIG. 4A, the blank 203 and the carrier 205 formed therefrom can include handle features that include a respective pair of handle tabs 265, 267 separably connected to one another at a respective cut 269, with the handle tab 265 separably connected to the upper attachment panel 221 at a curved cut 271 and foldably connected thereto at an oblique fold line 273, and with the handle tab 267 separably connected to the upper attachment panel 221 at a curved cut 275 and foldably connected thereto at an oblique fold line 277.

[0072] With additional reference to FIG. 5 and 6, in order to form the carrier 205 and package 207, the upper attachment panel 221 can be lowered onto a group of containers C such that the flange portion F and at least a portion of the neck portion N of a respective container C can be at least partially received through the first container receiving openings 241 to contact the container retention tabs 227, 237 and cause them to fold at least partially upwardly at the respective fold lines 235, 239.

[0073] In such an arrangement the container retention tabs 227, 237 can obliquely extend, e.g., in a bracing relationship, from the upper attachment panel 221 to a portion of the containers C, e.g., a rolled rim or chime of the containers C associated with the respective flange portion F thereof. In some embodiments, the container retention tabs 227, 237 can be disposed in a generally upward oblique relationship relative to the upper attachment panel 221 so as to tighten the relationship between the containers C and the carrier 205.

[0074] Movement of the containers C relative to the upper attachment panel 221 can further cause the respective containers C to contact an underside of the respective container cover panels 225 and cause the container cover panels 225 to at least partially separate from the upper attachment panel 221 at the respective cuts 245 and rest along the top surface TS of the respective container C within the flange portion F of the respective container C. Such movement of the container cover panels 225 can expose the respective first container receiving openings 241 in the upper attachment panel 221 such that the respective containers C are further at least partially received through the first container receiving openings 241 of the upper attachment panel 221.

[0075] The container cover panels 225 are thus positioned atop the respective containers C so as to provide a buffer between upper portions of the respective containers C received through the respective first container receiving openings 241 and a surrounding environment. Such buffer can minimize, inhibit, and / or prevent the incidence of unwanted contact of the top surface TS and / or flange portion F of the containers C with, for example, dirt, debris, microbes, pests, unsanitary objects, etc. The container cover panels 225 can remain at least partially connected to the upper attachment panel 221 by the respective connection members 243 extending from each container cover panel 225 to the upper attachment panel 221. In some embodiments, the connection members 243 can at least partially fold, flex, twist, or otherwise manipulate to permit movement of the container cover panels 225 relative to the upper attachment panel 221.

[0076] Accordingly, the container cover panels 225 can be provided to offer protection and at least partial concealment of upper portions of the containers C from a surrounding environment so as to maintain a hygienic condition of the containers C prior to removal from the carrier 205 by a user.

[0077] When it is desired to remove a container C from the carrier 205 / package 207, a user can withdraw such container C through the first container receiving openings 241. Such removal may include disengagement of one or more of the container retention tabs 227, 237 from the respective container C.

[0078] A user can lift and / or carry the carrier 205 / package 207 with the handle features thereof. For example, in some embodiments, a user can at least partially insert a portion of their hand, e.g., one or more fingers, through the handle tabs 265, 267 to cause at least partial separation therebetween at the respective cut 269, and can further cause the handle tabs 265, 267 to fold at least partially downwardly at the respective fold lines 273, 277 to access an edge or underside of the upper attachment panel 221 as a gripping surface. In some embodiments, the handle tabs 265, 267 can be positioned between a portion of a user’s hand and the carrier 205 / package 207, e.g., for comfort, for strength, to avoid unwanted tearing, etc.

[0079] Turning to FIG. 7A, a plan view of an exterior surface 301 of a blank 303 for forming a carrier 305 (FIGS. 9 and 10) according to a third embodiment of the disclosure is illustrated. FIGS. 7B and 7C are enlarged views of portions of the blank 303. As shown in FIG. 8, the blank 303 can be provided in combination with the blank 203 for forming the carrier 305. The carrier 305 can be provided with one or more containers to form a package 307 (FIG. 10).

[0080] As shown in FIG. 10, the carrier 305 is sized to contain or support six containers C, with three containers C being attached to a front portion 306 of the carrier 305 and three containers C being attached to a back portion 308 of the carrier 305. The carrier 305 can be provided with one or more containers C to form a package 307. It will be understood that a different number and / or arrangement of containers C could be provided without departing from the disclosure.

[0081] Referring to FIG. 7A, the blank 303 has the longitudinal axis L1 and the lateral axis L2. The blank 303 can have an upper or exterior surface 301 opposite a lower or interior surface such that a thickness of the blank 303 and carrier 305 formed therefrom can be at least partially defined from the exterior surface 301 to the interior surface. In one embodiment, the axis L1 can be a lateral axis and the axis L2 can be a longitudinal axis.

[0082] The blank 303 and the carrier 305 formed therefrom can include a lower attachment panel 321 (broadly “first attachment panel”, “second attachment panel”, etc.) with a plurality of fourth container receiving features 323 (broadly “first plurality of container receiving features”, “second plurality of container receiving features”, etc.) and a plurality of fifth container receiving features 325 (broadly “first plurality of container receiving features”, “second plurality of container receiving features”, etc.). The plurality of fifth container receiving features 323, as shown, can include a plurality of second container receiving openings 327 (broadly “first plurality of container receiving openings” or “third plurality of container receiving openings”) for at least partially receiving a respective portion of a container C. While the second container receiving openings 327 are illustrated as positioned adjacent the respective corners of the blank 303, it will be understood that a different arrangement of second container receiving openings 327 could be provided without departing from the disclosure. For example, a different arrangement of second container receiving openings 327 could be provided in a differently-sized blank 303.

[0083] As shown in FIG. 7B, a plurality of container retention tabs are positioned extending into each second container receiving opening 327, and can include a first plurality of container retention tabs 329 foldably connected to the lower attachment panel 321 at a respective line of weakening 331 (which can be laterally, longitudinally, or obliquely arranged depending on orientation), with respective adjacent container retention tabs 329 separable at a respective cut 333. The container retention tabs 329 can have a generally uniform configuration, though one or more of the container retention tabs 329 could have a different configuration without departing from the disclosure.

[0084] A second plurality of container retention tabs 335 can further be foldably connected to the lower attachment panel 321 at respective fold lines 337 (which can be longitudinal, lateral, or oblique depending on orientation).

[0085] The fifth container receiving features 325 can be associated with generally centrally located features along the blank 303, though a different arrangement could be provided without departing from the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 7C, the fifth container receiving features 325 can include a plurality of first container retention tabs 339 foldably connected to the lower attachment panel 321 at a respective oblique fold line 341, and a plurality of second container retention tabs 343 interspersed with the container retention tabs 339 and foldably connected to the lower attachment panel 321 at a respective straight fold line 345 (which can be laterally or longitudinally arranged depending on orientation).

[0086] Each of the second container retention tabs 343 can be at least partially separable from respective adjacent first container retention tabs 339 at respective cuts 347, 348 which may include one or more relief portions, for example, for facilitating formation of the carrier 305 from the blank 303.

[0087] The first container retention tabs 339 can be separably and / or foldably connected to a respective reinforcement panel 349 at respective oblique lines of weakening 351, and respective oblique fold lines 353 can be positioned along the reinforcement panel 349 in generally parallel and spaced relation with the respective fold lines 351. The second container retention tabs 343 can be separably connected to the reinforcement panel 349 at a respective cut 355 (which can be longitudinally or laterally arranged based on orientation).

[0088] A perimeter of each reinforcement panel 349 can be defined by the cuts 355, the oblique lines of weakening 351, and portions of the cuts 347, 348. As described further herein, the reinforcement panels 349 can be folded relative to the lower attachment panel 321 to expose a respective container retention opening 357. For example, the reinforcement panel 349 shown in FIG. 7C can be folded along the oblique line of weakening 351 in the lower left corner or along the oblique line of weakening 351 in the lower right corner such that an interior surface of the reinforcement panel 349 comes in face-to-face contact with an interior surface of the lower attachment panel 321.

[0089] The blank 303 and the carrier 305 formed therefrom can also include handle features that can include distal handle tabs (such as pair of first distal handle tabs 765c, 767c or pair of second distal handle tabs 765d, 767d) positioned along a respective reinforcement panel 349, and respective pairs of handle tabs (such as pair of first lower handle tabs 765a, 767a or pair of second lower handle tabs 765b, 767b) positioned along the lower attachment panel 321.

[0090] FIG. 8 illustrates the blanks 203, 303 in a side-by-side relationship. With additional reference to FIGS. 9 and 10, in order to form the carrier 305 and package 307 from the blanks 203, 303, the reinforcement panels 349 can be at least partially separated from the lower attachment panel 321 / container retention tabs 343, 339 at the respective lines of weakening 351 and cuts 355 and can be at least partially folded at a respective line of weakening 351 into at least partial face-to-face contact with a portion of the lower attachment panel 321 to expose the container retention opening 357. For example, the reinforcement panel 349 illustrated in FIG. 7B can be partially separated from the lower attachment panel 321 along cuts 355, the upper left oblique line of weakening 351, the upper right oblique line of weakening 351, the lower right oblique line of weakening, and along the cuts 347, 348 and can be folded at the lower left oblique line of weakening 351 into at least partial face-to-face contact with the lower attachment panel 321.

[0091] In some embodiments, the reinforcement panels 349 can be positioned such that the interior surface thereof is in at least partial face-to-face contact with an interior surface of the lower attachment panel 321, for example, such that distal handle tabs (such as first distal handle tabs 765c, 767c) are positioned generally aligned with lower handle tabs (e.g., first lower handle tabs 765a, 767a or second lower handle tabs 765b, 767c) associated with the lower attachment panel 321 (e.g., first distal handle tab 765c can be aligned with first lower handle tab 765a or second lower handle tab 765b, second distal handle tab 767c can be aligned with first lower handle tab 767a or second lower handle tab 767b, etc.).

[0092] The blank 303, such folded, can be combined with the blank 203 such that the upper attachment panel 221 is in at least partial face-to-face contact with the lower attachment panel 321 of the blank 303. For example, the interior surface of the blank 203 can be positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the interior surface of the blank 303 and such that the reinforcement panels 349 are positioned therebetween. Such arrangement is illustrated in FIG. 9, such that an underside of the carrier 305 is illustrated.

[0093] As shown in FIG. 10, the carrier 305 can be lowered onto the containers C such that the flange portion F and at least a portion of the neck portion N of a respective container C can be at least partially received through the container receiving openings 241, 327, 357 to contact the container retention tabs 339, 343, container retention tabs 329, 335 and / or container retention tabs 227, 237 and cause them to fold at least partially upwardly at the respective fold lines (e.g.,341, 345, 331,337, 235, or 239).

[0094] In such an arrangement the container retention tabs 339, 343 or container retention tabs 329, 335 can obliquely extend, e.g., in a bracing relationship, from the lower attachment panel 321 to a portion of the containers C, e.g., a rolled rim or chime of the containers C associated with the respective flange portion F thereof. In some embodiments, the container retention tabs 339, 343 or container retention tabs 329, 335 can be disposed in a generally upward oblique relationship relative to the lower attachment panel 321 so as to tighten the relationship between the containers C and the carrier 305.

[0095] Furthermore, the position of the reinforcement panels 349 overlapping the remainder of the lower attachment panel 321 is such that portions of the reinforcement panel 349 adjacent the respective fold line 353 and aligned with the respective container retention tabs 339 can be caused to fold at least partially upwardly at the respective fold lines 353 (which are aligned with the fold line 341) so as to reinforce and / or form a secondary container retention tab in tandem with the container retention tabs 339.

[0096] Accordingly, the container cover panels 225 of the carrier 305 / package 307 can be provided to offer protection and at least partial concealment of upper portions of the containers C from a surrounding environment so as to maintain a hygienic condition of the containers C prior to removal from the carrier 305 / package 307 by a user in the manner described above with regard to the carrier 105 / package 107 and carrier 205 / package 207.

[0097] Furthermore, the multi-ply arrangement of the carrier 305 / package 307 provided by the overlapped attachment panels 221, 321 and reinforcement panels 349 provides a robust configuration of the carrier 305 / package 307 that can be resistant to tearing or other deformation.

[0098] A user can lift and / or carry the carrier 305 / package 307 with the handle features thereof. For example, in some embodiments, a user can at least partially insert a portion of their hand, e.g., one or more fingers, through the handle tabs 265, 267 associated with the upper attachment panel 221, distal handle tabs 765c, 767c, 765d, 767d of the respective reinforcement panel 349 aligned therebelow, and the lower handle tabs 765a, 767a, 765b, 767b of the lower attachment panel 321 aligned therebelow to cause at least partial separation therebetween at the respective cuts 269, and can further cause the respective handle tabs to fold at least partially downwardly at the respective fold lines 273, 277 to access an edge or underside of the lower attachment panel 321 as a gripping surface. In some embodiments, any of the handle tabs can be positioned between a portion of a user’s hand and the carrier 305 / package 307, e.g., for comfort, for strength, to avoid unwanted tearing, etc.

[0099] In general, the blank may be constructed from paperboard having a caliper so that it is heavier and more rigid than ordinary paper. The blank can also be constructed of other materials, such as cardboard, or any other material having properties suitable for enabling the carrier to function at least generally as described above. The blank can be coated with, for example, a clay coating. The clay coating may then be printed over with product, advertising, and other information or images. The blanks may then be coated with a varnish to protect information printed on the blanks. The blanks may also be coated with, for example, a moisture barrier layer, on either or both sides of the blanks. The blanks can also be laminated to or coated with one or more sheet-like materials at selected panels or panel sections.

[0100] As an example, a tear line can include: a slit that extends partially into the material along the desired line of weakness, and / or a series of spaced apart slits that extend partially into and / or completely through the material along the desired line of weakness, or various combinations of these features. As a more specific example, one type tear line is in the form of a series of spaced apart slits that extend completely through the material, with adjacent slits being spaced apart slightly so that a nick (e.g., a small somewhat bridging-like piece of the material) is defined between the adjacent slits for typically temporarily connecting the material across the tear line. The nicks are broken during tearing along the tear line. The nicks typically are a relatively small percentage of the tear line, and alternatively the nicks can be omitted from or torn in a tear line such that the tear line is a continuous cut line. That is, it is within the scope of the present disclosure for each of the tear lines to be replaced with a continuous slit, or the like. For example, a cut line can be a continuous slit or could be wider than a slit without departing from the present disclosure.

[0101] In accordance with the embodiments, a fold line can be any substantially linear, although not necessarily straight, form of weakening that facilitates folding therealong. More specifically, but not for the purpose of narrowing the scope of the present disclosure, fold lines include: a score line, such as lines formed with a blunt scoring knife, or the like, which creates a crushed or depressed portion in the material along the desired line of weakness; a cut that extends partially into a material along the desired line of weakness, and / or a series of cuts that extend partially into and / or completely through the material along the desired line of weakness; and various combinations of these features. In situations where cutting is used to create a fold line, typically the cutting will not be overly extensive in a manner that might cause a reasonable user to incorrectly consider the fold line to be a tear line.

[0102] The above embodiments may be described as having one or more panels adhered together by glue during erection of the carrier embodiments. The term “glue” is intended to encompass all manner of adhesives commonly used to secure carrier panels in place.

[0103] The foregoing description of the disclosure illustrates and describes various embodiments. Various additions, modifications, changes, etc., could be made to the embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. It is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Additionally, the disclosure shows and describes only selected embodiments of the disclosure, but the disclosure is capable of use in various other combinations, modifications, and environments and is capable of changes or modifications within the scope of the inventive concept as expressed herein, commensurate with the above teachings, and / or within the skill or knowledge of the relevant art. Furthermore, certain features and characteristics of each embodiment may be selectively interchanged and applied to other illustrated and non-illustrated embodiments of the disclosure.

Claims

1. A carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the carrier comprising:an attachment panel; anda plurality of container receiving features defined in the attachment panel for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers, wherein each container receiving feature includes a respective container cover panel separably connected to the attachment panel by a connection member, wherein each cover panel is positioned to at least partially cover a top portion of a respective container of the plurality of containers.

2. The carrier of claim 1, wherein at least one connection member is serpentine shaped.

3. The carrier of claim 1, wherein the attachment panel is an upper attachment panel and the carrier further comprises a lower attachment panel in at least partial face-to-face contact with the upper attachment panel.

4. The carrier of claim 2, wherein the plurality of container receiving features is a first plurality of container receiving features and the carrier further comprises a second plurality of container receiving features defined in the lower attachment panel for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers.

5. The carrier of claim 4, wherein each receiving feature of the second plurality of container receiving features includes a respective container receiving opening.

6. The carrier of claim 5, wherein each receiving feature of the second plurality of container receiving features includes a plurality of container retention tabs arranged to receive and retain a portion of each respective container.

7. The carrier of claim 5, wherein the lower attachment panel comprises a first pair of handle tabs and wherein at least one container receiving feature of the second plurality of container receiving features includes a reinforcement panel in face-to-face contact with the lower attachment panel such that a second pair of handle tabs defined in the reinforcement panel is aligned with the first pair of handle tabs.

8. A blank for forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the blank comprising:an attachment panel; anda plurality of container receiving features defined in the attachment panel for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers, wherein each container receiving feature includes a respective container cover panel separably connected to the attachment panel by a connection member, wherein each cover panel is positioned to at least partially cover a top portion of a respective container of the plurality of containers.

9. The blank of claim 8, wherein at least one connection member is serpentine shaped.

10. The blank of claim 8, wherein the attachment panel is an upper attachment panel and the blank further comprises a lower attachment panel in at least partial face-to-face contact with the upper attachment panel.

11. The blank of claim 10, wherein the plurality of container receiving features is a first plurality of container receiving features and the blank further comprises a second plurality of container receiving features defined in the lower attachment panel for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers.

12. The blank of claim 11, wherein each receiving feature of the second plurality of container receiving features includes a respective container receiving opening.

13. The blank of claim 12, wherein each receiving feature of the second plurality of container receiving features includes a plurality of container retention tabs arranged to receive and retain a portion of each respective container.

14. The blank of claim 12, wherein the lower attachment panel comprises a first pair of handle tabs and wherein at least one container receiving feature of the second plurality of container receiving features includes a reinforcement panel in face-to-face contact with the lower attachment panel such that a second pair of handle tabs defined in the reinforcement panel is aligned with the first pair of handle tabs.

15. A method for forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the method comprising:providing an attachment panel; anddefining a plurality of container receiving features in the attachment panel for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers, wherein each container receiving feature includes a respective container cover panel separably connected to the attachment panel by a connection member, wherein each cover panel is positioned to at least partially cover a top portion of a respective container of the plurality of containers.

16. The method of claim 15, wherein at least one connection member is serpentine shaped.

17. The method of claim 15, wherein the attachment panel is an upper attachment panel and the method further comprises providing a lower attachment panel in at least partial face-to-face contact with the upper attachment panel.

18. The method of claim 17, wherein the plurality of container receiving features is a first plurality of container receiving features and the method further comprises defining a second plurality of container receiving features in the lower attachment panel for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein each receiving feature of the second plurality of container receiving features includes a respective container receiving opening.

20. The method of claim 19, wherein each receiving feature of the second plurality of container receiving features includes a plurality of container retention tabs arranged to receive and retain a portion of each respective container.

21. The method of claim 19, wherein the lower attachment panel comprises a first pair of handle tabs and wherein at least one container receiving feature of the second plurality of receiving features includes a reinforcement panel in face-to-face contact with the lower attachment panel such that a second pair of handle tabs defined in the reinforcement panel is aligned with the first pair of handle tabs.

22. A package comprising:a carrier for holding a plurality of containers; andthe plurality of containers held by the carrier, wherein the carrier comprises:an attachment panel; anda plurality of container receiving features defined in the attachment panel for atleast partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers, wherein eachcontainer receiving feature includes a respective container cover panel separablyconnected to the attachment panel by a connection member, wherein each cover panel ispositioned to at least partially cover a top portion of a respective container of the pluralityof containers.

23. The package of claim 22, wherein at least one connection member is serpentine shaped.

24. The package of claim 22, wherein the attachment panel is an upper attachment panel and the carrier further comprises a lower attachment panel in at least partial face-to-face contact with the upper attachment panel.

25. The package of claim 24, wherein the plurality of container receiving features is a first plurality of container receiving features and the carrier further comprises a second plurality of container receiving features defined in the lower attachment panel for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers.

26. The package of claim 25, wherein each receiving feature of the second plurality of container receiving features includes a respective container receiving opening.

27. The package of claim 26, wherein each receiving feature of the second plurality of container receiving features includes a plurality of container retention tabs arranged to receive and retain a portion of each respective container.

28. The package of claim 26, wherein the lower attachment panel comprises a first pair of handle tabs and wherein at least one container receiving feature of the second plurality of container receiving features includes a reinforcement panel in face-to-face contact with the lower attachment panel such that a second pair of handle tabs defined in the reinforcement panel is aligned with the first pair of handle tabs.

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