Article carrier and blank therefor

Abstract

Aspects of the disclosure relate to an article carrier for engaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises a plurality of primary panels forming a tubular structure defining a tubular axis. The plurality of primary panels includes a pair of spaced apart panels comprising an upper panel and a lower panel. At least one of the upper and lower panels comprises at least one article-engaging device, wherein the upper panel has a first width extending perpendicularly to the tubular axis, and the lower panel has a second width extending perpendicularly to the tubular axis. The first width is greater than the second width.

Description

[0001] ARTICLE CARRIER AND BLANK THEREFOR

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present invention relates to packages, article carriers and to blanks for forming the same More specifically, but not exclusively, the invention relates to a carrier of the top-gripping type having an engaging panel including one or more apertures for receiving and retaining an article therein and keel structure to improve package stability.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] In the field of packaging, it is known to provide cartons for carrying multiple articles. Cartons are well known in the art and are useful for enabling consumers to transport, store and access a group of articles for consumption. For cost and environmental considerations, such cartons or carriers need to be formed from as little material as possible and cause as little wastage in the materials from which they are formed as possible. Further considerations are the strength of the carton and its suitability for holding and transporting large weights of articles. It is desirable that the contents of the carton are secure within the carton.

[0006] It is well known to provide top gripping article carriers in which an aperture is formed in a panel of the carrier, wherein tabs are struck from said aperture. The tabs are displaced out of the plane of said panel when an article is received in the aperture, wherein said tabs engage the article generally about a flange or lip of the article.

[0007] The present invention seeks to provide an improvement in the field of cartons, typically formed from paperboard or the like.

[0008] SUMMARY

[0009] A first aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for engaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises a plurality of primary panels and a keel structure. The plurality of primary panels includes a pair of wing panels disposed on the opposite sides of the keel structure and forming, at least in part, a lower panel. The keel structure comprises; a first leg or beam panel hingedly connected to one of the wing panels, a second leg or beam panel opposing the first beam panel, and a table or spacer panel extending between the leg or beam panels. The second leg or beam panel may be hingedly connected to the other one of the wing panels. The wing panels are connected together by a bridging tab which is secured adhesively to at least one of the wing panels.

[0010] Optionally, the bridging tab is in face contacting arrangement with both wing panels.

[0011] A second aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for engaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises a plurality of primary panels forming a tubular structure defining a tubular axis. The plurality of primary panels includes a pair of spaced apart panels comprising an upper panel and a lower panel. At least one of the upper and lower panels comprises at least one article-engaging device. The upper panel has a first width extending perpendicularly to the tubular axis. The lower panel has a second width extending perpendicularly to the tubular axis and wherein the first width is greater than the second width.

[0012] Optionally, each of the first width dimension and the second width dimension is measured as a dimension from a first hinged connection, between a pair of adjacent panels, to a second hinged connection, between a second pair of adjacent panels. A third aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for engaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises a plurality of primary panels and a keel structure. The plurality of primary panels includes a pair of spaced apart opposing panels comprising an upper panel and a lower panel. The lower panel comprises a pair of wing panels disposed on the opposite sides of the keel structure. The keel structure comprises a pair of opposing leg or beam panels and a table or spacer panel bridging between the pair of opposing leg or beam panels The upper panel is provided with at least two article-engaging devices disposed on the opposite sides of the table or spacer panel.

[0013] Optionally, the at least two article-engaging devices are dimensioned and positioned such that the opposed side edges of the table or spacer panel are brought into contact with the articles engaged by the at least two articleengaging devices.

[0014] A fourth aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for engaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises a plurality of primary panels forming a tubular structure defining a tubular axis. The plurality of primary panels includes a pair of spaced apart opposing panels comprising an upper panel and a lower panel. At least the upper panel comprises at least one article-engaging device. The upper panel has a first length extending along the tubular axis. The lower panel has a second length extending along the tubular axis and wherein the first length is less than the second length.

[0015] A fifth aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for engaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises a plurality of primary panels and a keel structure. The plurality of panels forms a tubular structure defining a tubular axis. The primary panels include a pair of spaced apart opposing panels comprising an upper panel and a lower panel. At least one of the upper and lower panels comprises at least one article-engaging device. The plurality of panels further includes a first end closure panel for at least partially closing an end of the tubular structure. The keel structure is disposed within the tubular structure and comprises a second end closure panel and wherein the first and second end closure panels are spaced apart from each other.

[0016] A sixth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a plurality of primary panels for forming a tubular structure and a keel structure. The plurality of primary panels includes a pair of wing panels disposed on the opposite sides of the panels forming the keel structure The pair of wing panels are configured and arranged to form, at least in part, a lower panel of the article carrier. The keel structure comprises; a first beam panel hingedly connected to one of the wing panels, a second beam panel opposing the first beam panel, and a spacer panel extending between the first and second beam panels The wing panels are connectable together by a bridging tab which is securable to at least one of the wing panels.

[0017] A seventh aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a plurality of primary panels for forming a tubular structure defining a tubular axis. The plurality of primary panels includes panels for forming a pair of spaced apart panels comprising an upper panel and a lower panel. At least one of the upper and lower panels comprises at least one article-engaging device. The upper panel has a first width extending perpendicularly to the tubular axis and the lower panel has a second width extending perpendicularly to the tubular axis. The first width is greater than the second width. An eighth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a plurality of primary panels for forming a tubular structure and a keel structure. The plurality of primary panels includes panels for forming a pair of spaced apart opposing panels comprising an upper panel and a lower panel. The lower panel comprises a pair of wing panels disposed on the opposite sides of panels forming the keel structure The keel structure comprises a pair of opposing beam panels and a spacer panel bridging between the pair of opposing beam panels. The upper panel is provided with at least two article-engaging devices configured to be disposed on the opposite sides of the spacer panel.

[0018] A ninth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a plurality of primary panels for forming a tubular structure defining a tubular axis. The plurality of primary panels includes panels for forming a pair of spaced apart opposing panels comprising an upper panel and a lower panel. At least the upper panel comprises at least one article-engaging device. The upper panel has a first length extending along the tubular axis and the lower panel has a second length extending along the tubular axis. The first length is less than the second length.

[0019] A tenth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a plurality of primary panels for forming a tubular structure and a keel structure. The tubular structure defines a tubular axis. The primary panels include panels for forming a pair of spaced apart opposing panels comprising an upper panel and a lower panel. At least one of the upper and lower panels comprises at least one article-engaging device. The plurality of panels further includes a first end closure panel for at least partially closing an end of the tubular structure. The keel structure is disposed within the tubular structure and comprises a second end closure panel. The first and second end closure panels are spaced apart from each other in a setup condition.

[0020] An eleventh aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises a plurality of primary panels for forming a top-engaging structure. The plurality of primary panels includes a base panel and at least one side panel connected to the base panel by a first hinged connection. The base panel comprises at least one engaging device for receiving and engaging an article. The at least one engaging device includes an engaging tab connected to the base panel by a second hinged connection. The engaging tab is formed in part from the base panel and in part from the at least one side panel. The engaging tab, when folded about the second hinged connection, defines an opening disposed astride the first hinged connection.

[0021] Optionally, the engaging tab has a first length dimension extending between the second hinged connection and a distal end of the engaging tab, the second hinged connection is disposed at a distance from the first hinged connection, and wherein the first length dimension is greater than the distance.

[0022] A twelfth aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises a plurality of primary panels for forming a top-engaging structure. The plurality of primary panels includes a base panel and a floor keel panel disposed in face contacting arrangement with the base panel. The base panel comprises a pair of adjacent engaging devices each for receiving and engaging an article. Each of the adjacent engaging devices includes an engaging tab connected to the base panel for load-bearing engagement with an article received in each engaging device. The floor keel panel comprises a pair of positioning projections along its opposed side edges. The positioning projections are in abutment respectively with the engaging tabs of the adjacent engaging devices to facilitate positioning of the floor keel panel between the adjacent engaging devices.

[0023] Optionally, the positioning projections align the floor keel panel centrally between the adjacent engaging devices.

[0024] Optionally, the opposed side edges are defined by hinged connections between the floor keel panel and a respective one of a pair of beam keel panels, the floor keel panel comprises a first width dimension defined between the opposed side edges, the positioning projections define a second width dimension, the second width dimension is greater than the first width dimension.

[0025] Optionally, the engaging tabs of the adjacent engaging devices are spaced apart from each other by a second distance, the second distance is greater than the first width dimension.

[0026] Optionally, the second distance may be approximately equal to the second width dimension.

[0027] Optionally, the engaging tab of each engaging device is connected to the base panel by a hinged connection, the hinged connections of the engaging tabs of the adjacent engaging devices are disposed apart by the second distance.

[0028] A thirteenth aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises a plurality of primary panels forming a tubular structure defining a tubular axis. The plurality of primary panels includes a pair of spaced apart panels comprising an upper panel and a lower panel. At least one of the upper and lower panels comprises at least one article-engaging device. The upper panel has an upper panel width extending perpendicularly to the tubular axis. The lower panel has a lower panel width extending perpendicularly to the tubular axis. The upper panel width is greater than the lower panel width.

[0029] Optionally, each of the upper panel width and the lower panel width is measured as a dimension from a first hinged connection, between a pair of adjacent primary panels, to a second hinged connection, between a second pair of adjacent primary panels.

[0030] Optionally, the lower panel is a single continuous panel having a pair of opposed side edges each extending parallel to the tubular axis, and wherein the lower panel width extends between the opposed side edges of the lower panel.

[0031] Further features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the specific embodiments illustrated in the drawings and discussed below.

[0032] Within the scope of this application, it is envisaged or intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and / or in the following description and drawings may be considered or taken independently or in any combination thereof.

[0033] Features or elements described in connection with, or relation to, one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments unless there is an incompatibility of features. One or more features or elements from one embodiment may be incorporated into, or combined with, any of the other embodiments disclosed herein, said features or elements extracted from said one embodiment may be included in addition to, or in replacement of one or more features or elements of said other embodiment. A feature, or combination of features, of an embodiment disclosed herein may be extracted in isolation from other features of that embodiment. Alternatively, a feature, or combination of features, of an embodiment may be omitted from that embodiment.

[0034] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0035] Exemplary embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0036] Figure 1 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a first embodiment;

[0037] Figure 2 is a perspective view from above of a carrier formed from the blank of Figure 1 ;

[0038] Figures 3 to 5 are perspective views of various stages of construction of the carrier of Figure 2;

[0039] Figures 6 and 7 are alternative perspective views of the carrier formed from the blank of Figure 1;

[0040] Figure 8 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a second embodiment;

[0041] Figures 9 and 10 are perspective views of various stages of construction of a carrier formed from the blank of Figure 8;

[0042] Figure 11 is a perspective view from above of a carrier formed from the blank of Figure 8;

[0043] Figure 12 is a perspective view from below of a carrier formed from the blank of Figure 8;

[0044] Figure 13 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a third embodiment;

[0045] Figure 14 is a perspective view from above of a carrier formed from the blank of Figure 13;

[0046] Figure 15 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a fourth embodiment;

[0047] Figure 16 is a perspective view from above of a carrier formed from the blank of Figure 15;

[0048] Figure 17 is a perspective view of an end of the carrier of Figure 16;

[0049] Figure 18 is a perspective view of the top of the carrier of Figure 16;

[0050] Figure 19 is a perspective view from below of the carrier of Figure 16; and

[0051] Figure 20 is a perspective view of a portion of the top of the carrier of Figure 16 in which a section has been removed for illustrative purposes.

[0052] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0053] Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of the package, blanks and carriers are disclosed herein. It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the way in which certain aspects of the invention can be implemented and do not represent an exhaustive list of all of the ways the invention may be embodied. As used herein, the word ‘‘exemplary” is used expansively to refer to embodiments that serve as illustrations, specimens, models, or patterns. Indeed, it will be understood that the packages, blanks, and carriers described herein may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The Figures are not necessarily to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components. Well-known components, materials or methods are not necessarily described in great detail in order to avoid obscuring the present disclosure. Any specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the invention. Referring to Figure 1, there is shown a plan view of a blank 10 which is capable of forming a carton or carrier 90, as shown in Figure 2, for containing and carrying a group of primary products such as, but not limited to, bottles or cans, hereinafter referred to as articles B. The blank 10 forms a secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package.

[0054] Alternative blanks 110; 210; 310 are shown in Figures 8, 13 and 15 for forming carton or carrier 190; 290; 390, as shown in Figure 9, 14 and 16, for containing and carrying a group of primary products such as, but not limited to, bottles or cans, hereinafter referred to as articles B.

[0055] In the embodiments detailed herein, the terms "carton” and "carrier” refer, for the non-limiting purpose of illustrating the various features of the invention, to a container for engaging and carrying articles, such as primary product containers. It is contemplated that the teachings of the invention can be applied to various product containers, which may or may not be tapered and / or cylindrical. Exemplary containers include bottles (for example metallic, glass or plastics bottles), cans (for example aluminums cans), tins, pouches, packets and the like.

[0056] The blanks 10; 110; 210; 310 are formed from a sheet of suitable substrate. It is to be understood that, as used herein, the term “suitable substrate” includes all manner of foldable sheet material such as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, and the like. It should be recognized that one or other numbers of blanks may be employed, where suitable, for example, to provide the carrier structure described in more detail below.

[0057] The packaging structures or cartons 90; 190; 290; 390 described herein may be formed from a sheet material such as paperboard, which may be made of or coated with materials to increase its strength. It should be noted that the tear resistant materials may be provided by more than one layer, to help improve the tear-resistance of the package. Typically, one surface of the sheet material may have different characteristics to the other surface. For example, the surface of the sheet material that faces outwardly from a finished package may be particularly smooth and may have a coating such as a clay coating or other surface treatment to provide good printability. The surface of the sheet material that faces inwardly may, on the other hand, be provided with a coating, a layer, a treatment or be otherwise prepared to provide properties such as one or more of tear-resistance, good glue-ability, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties.

[0058] The material of the paperboard substrate may be selected from any conventional paperboard, for example, ranging in weight upwardly from about 10pt., preferably from about 16pt. to about 28pt. (0.028’7-0.7mm). An example of such a substrate is a 23-point (pt.) SBS board (solid bleached sulphate paperboard coated on one side, trade name PrintKote®) or CNK® board (Coated Natural Kraft® -an unbleached kraft paperboard having a clay coating on one side, trade name CarrierKote™) manufactured by WestRock® Company. The paperboard substrate may be a bleached or unbleached board. The board may be coated on at least one side, optionally the side opposite the lamination, with a conventional coating selected for compatibility with the printing method and board composition.

[0059] The blanks 10; 110; 210; 310 may include a tear resistant layer laminated to the paperboard layer. It optionally includes an adhesive layer between the paperboard substrate and the tear resistant layer. The tear resistant layer may be disposed over the uncoated side of the paperboard substrate and may be formed of polymeric material and secured to the substrate. The tear resistant layer imparts toughness to the laminate structure. Suitable tear resistant materials may include, but not be limited to, tear resistant laminated sheet material, e.g. , NATRALOCK®, which may include a layer of an n-axially oriented film, e.g., MYLAR®, which is a bi-axially oriented polyester, oriented nylon, cross-laminated polyolefin, or high-density polyolefin The orientation and cross-laminated structure of these materials contribute to the tear resistant characteristic Also, tear resistance may be attributed to the chemical nature of the tear resistant material such as extruded metallocene-catalyzed polyethylene (mPE).

[0060] Alternatively, the tear resistant layer may be a layer of linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE). In embodiments where linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) or mPE is used, it is not necessary to incorporate an adhesive layer. Other suitable materials having a high level of tear resistance may also be used.

[0061] The adhesive layer may be formed of polyolefin material such as a low-density polyethylene (LDPE). The adhesive layer may be placed between the substrate and the tear resistant layer to secure the tear resistant layer to the substrate.

[0062] In the illustrated embodiments, the blanks 10; 110; 210; 310 are configured to form a carton or carrier 90; 190; 290; 390 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles B. In the illustrated embodiments, the arrangement is a 2 x 3 matrix or array and the articles B are 500ml (16.9US fl. oz.) bottles.

[0063] Alternatively, the blanks 10; 110; 210; 310 can be configured to form a carrier for packaging other types, number, and size of articles B and / or for packaging articles B in a different arrangement or configuration.

[0064] Referring to Figure 1, there is shown a blank 10 comprising a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 including a first upper panel 12 for forming, at least in part, a top wall of a carrier 90 (see Figure 2).

[0065] A first side panel 14 is hingedly connected to a first side of the first upper panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 13. A first lower panel 16, or first engaging panel 16 (also referred to herein as a wing panel), is hingedly connected to the first side panel 14 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 15.

[0066] The blank 10 comprises a brace or keel structure for increasing the rigidity of the carrier 90. The brace or keel structure may take the form of a beam extending longitudinally of the carrier 90.

[0067] A keel structure is hingedly connected to the first wing panel 16, the keel structure comprises; a first keel panel 18, also referred to herein as a leg or beam panel, hingedly connected to the first wing panel 16 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 17, a second keel panel 20, also referred to herein as a table or spacer panel, hingedly connected to the first keel panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 19, and a third keel panel 22, also referred to herein as a leg or beam panel, hingedly connected to the second keel panel 20 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 21.

[0068] A second lower panel 24, or second engaging panel 24 (also referred to herein as a wing panel), is hingedly connected to the third keel panel 22 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 23.

[0069] A second side panel 26 is hingedly connected to the second lower panel 24 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 25. A second upper panel 28 is hingedly connected to the second side panel 26 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 27.

[0070] The first upper panel 12, second upper panel 28, first and second side panels 14, 26, first and second lower panels 16, 24 and first and third keel panels 18, 22 form tubular structures. The first and second lower panels 16, 24 of the blank 10 each include at least one article retention structure RT. The blank 10 comprises a plurality of article retention structures RT, specifically six article retention structures RT arranged in a 2 x 3 matrix or array, a first column of three article retention structures RT is provided in the first lower panel 16 and a second column of three article retention structures RT is provided in the second lower panel 24. Each of the article retention structures RT comprises an article receiving opening defined, at least in part, by engaging tabs or teeth 40, 42.

[0071] The article retention structures RT comprise a first engaging tab 40 struck in part from the first or second lower panel 16, 24 and in part from the adjacent one of the first and second side panels 14, 26. The article retention structures RT are hingedly connected to one of the first and second side panels 14, 26 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 41. The fold line 41 is offset with respect to one of the fold lines 15, 25 hinging the respective first or second side panel 14, 26 to one of the first and second lower panels 16, 24.

[0072] A second engaging tab 42 is struck from the first or second lower panel 16, 24 and is hingedly connected thereto by a fold line 43. The second engaging tab 42 is separated from the first engaging tab 40 by cut line or severable line and is hinged in opposition to the second engaging tab 62.

[0073] The first upper panel 12 comprises at least one second article receiving opening defined by an aperture A1 . In the illustrated embodiment, the first upper panel 12 comprises three second article receiving openings arranged in a 1 x 3 matrix or array; each second article receiving opening is configured to be disposed in vertical registry with one of the article retention structures RT in the first lower panel 16. The aperture A1 is defined by a cutline which may define a scalloped or serrated engaging edge in the first upper panel 12. The apertures A1 in the first upper panel 12 are smaller in dimension, diameter, or width, than the openings in the first lower panel 16 defined by the engaging tabs 40, 42.

[0074] The second upper panel 28 comprises at least one second article receiving opening defined by an aperture A1 . In the illustrated embodiment, the second upper panel 28 comprises three second article receiving openings arranged in a 1 x 3 matrix or array; each second article receiving opening is configured to be disposed in vertical registry with one of the article retention structures RT in the second lower panel 24. The aperture A1 is defined by a cutline which may define a scalloped or serrated engaging edge in the second upper panel 28. The apertures A1 in the second upper panel 28 are smaller in dimension, diameter, or width, than the openings in the second lower panel 24 defined by the engaging tabs 40, 42.

[0075] The first upper panel 12 comprises a handle structure H1, the handle structure H1 may comprise at least one handle or finger opening. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of finger openings are provided in a spaced apart relationship form each other. Each finger opening may be defined, at least in part, by a handle flap 60 struck from the first upper panel 12 and hingedly connected thereto.

[0076] The second upper panel 28 may comprise at least one handle or finger opening, in the illustrated embodiment, a pair of second finger openings are provided in the form of an aperture A2. Each of the apertures A2 is configured to be disposed in vertical registry with one of the finger openings in the first upper panel 12. The apertures A2 may arranged to be larger in dimension than the finger openings to facilitate receiving the handle flap 60. The second keel panel 20 may comprise part of the handle structure H2. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of third finger openings are provided in a spaced apart relationship from each other. Each third finger opening may be defined, at least in part, by a second handle flap 62 struck from the second keel panel 20 and hingedly connected thereto. Each of the third finger openings is configured to be disposed in vertical registry with one of the finger openings in the first upper panel 12 and a respective one of the apertures A2 in the second upper panel 28.

[0077] The second upper panel 28 may comprise one or more cutaways. The cutaways may take the form of an aperture A3 and / or a recess R. In the illustrated embodiment, the second upper panel 28 may comprise two recesses struck from opposed ends thereof to provide filleted corners and an aperture A3 disposed between the pair of second finger openings in the second upper panel 28. The cutaways expose regions of the second keel panel 20 when the second upper panel 28 is disposed in overlying relationship therewith. In this way glue or other adhesive treatment can be applied to the second keel panel 20 enabling the first upper panel 12 to be secured to the second keel panel 20. A single glue application can be employed to secure the first upper panel 12, second upper panel 28, and second keel panel 20 together.

[0078] The blank 10 comprises a securing device for securing the first lower panel 16 to the second lower panel 24. The securing device takes the form of a tab T1 , T2 extending from a side edge of at least one of the first and second lower panels 16, 24 and receiver in the other one of the first and second lower panels 16, 24 the receiver takes the form of a cutaway, opening or aperture, slot or slit in which the tab T1 , T2 is received such that the tab T1, T2 can be disposed in overlying relationship with said other one of the first and second lower panels 16, 24.

[0079] The cutaway may be formed, at least in part, in the keel panel 18, 22 hinged to said other one of the first and second lower panels 16, 24.

[0080] In the illustrated embodiment, the securing device takes the form of a first tab T1 extending from a side edge of the first lower panel 16 and a second tab T2 extending from an adjacent side edge of the second lower panel 24. The first tab T 1 is struck from the first keel panel 18 and interrupts the hinged connection, fold line 17, between the first keel panel 18 and the first lower panel 16 When the first keel panel 18 is folded with respect to the first lower panel 16, the first tab T1 remains substantially coplanar with the first lower panel 16 such that a first receiver opening is formed in the first keel panel 18, best shown in Figure 3. The first receiver opening may be defined in part by an aperture A4 struck from the first keel panel 18 and disposed adjacent to the first tab T1 . The first tab T 1 is defined, in part, by a pair of first cut lines C1 extending from the fold line 17 into the first keel panel 18 and in part by the aperture A4.

[0081] The second tab T2 is struck from the third keel panel 22 and interrupts the hinged connection, fold line 23, between the third keel panel 22 and the second lower panel 24. When the third keel panel 22 is folded with respect to the second lower panel 24, the second tab T2 remains substantially coplanar with the second lower panel 24 such that a second receiver opening is formed in the third keel panel 22, best shown in Figure 3. The second receiver opening may be defined in part by an aperture A4 struck from the third keel panel 22 and disposed adjacent to the second tab T2. The second tab T1 is defined, in part, by a pair of second cut lines C2 extending from the fold line 23 into the third keel panel 22 and in part by the aperture A4. In the illustrated embodiment, blank 10 comprises a pair of securing devices. The securing devices are longitudinally offset with respect to the article retention structures RT in the first and second lower panels 16, 24, and may be generally aligned with respect to the handle openings.

[0082] Turning to the construction of the carrier 90 from the blank 10, the blank 10 may be formed into an assembled carrier 90, as shown in Figure 2.

[0083] The blank 10 is applied to a group of articles B. The blank 10 is lowered with respect to a group of articles B. Each of the article retention structures RT of the blank 10 is aligned with a respective article B in the group. Portions of the articles B pass through one of the first and second lower panels 16, 24. The engaging tabs 40, 42 of each of the article retention structures RT fold out of the plane of the first or second lower panel 16, 24.

[0084] The blank 10 is folded about fold lines 17, 23 to fold the first and third keel panels 18 with respect to the first or second lower panel 16, 24 to which it is hingedly connected the second keel panel 20 is folded with respect to the first and third keel panels 18, 22, about fold lines 19, 21. In some embodiments the keel structure may be at least partially folded prior to receiving articles B in the article retention structures RT.

[0085] The articles B in the first and second lower panels 16, 24 are brought together to bring the first lower panel 16 into close proximity or touching contact with second lower panel 24 in doing so the first and second tabs T1 , T2 are brought into overlapping relationship. At least a portion of the first tab T1 is received in the second receiver opening and at least a portion of the second tab T2 is received in the first receiver opening as shown in Figure 4. The lower edges of the first and third keel panels 18, 22 are brought into close proximity or touching contact with each other, in this way the keel panels 18, 20, 22 form a tubular structure having a generally triangular cross section shape.

[0086] Glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to one or both of the first and second tabs T1, T2 such that the first and second tabs T1, T2 may be secured to each other and / or to a respective one of the first and second lower panels 16, 24. The glue or adhesive treatment may be applied before or during folding of the keel structure.

[0087] The second side panel 26 together with the second upper panel 28 are folded about fold line 25 to dispose the second side panel 26 about sides of upper portions of the articles B received in the second lower panel 24 The second side panel 26 may be folded through an angle less than 90° such that the second side panel 26 is inclined at an oblique angle with respect to the second lower panel 24, the second side panel 26 and second lower panel 24 define in part a second chamber having an interior in which the second side panel 26 and second lower panel 24 define an internal angle therebetween, the internal angle may be greater than 90°.

[0088] The second upper panel 28 is folded with respect to the second side panel 26. The second upper panel 28 is brought into overlying relationship with the second keel panel 20 and may be in face contacting relationship therewith, as shown in Figure 5. In doing so, upper portions of the articles B engaged by the second lower panel 24 are received in apertures A1 in the second upper panel 28. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper portions of the articles B are provided by end closures or caps C.

[0089] The second upper panel 28 may be folded with respect to the second side panel 26 through an angle greater than 90° such that the second side panel 26 is inclined at an oblique angle with respect to the second upper panel 28, the second side panel 26 and second upper panel 28 define in part the interior chamber, the second side panel 26 and second upper panel 28 define an internal angle therebetween, the internal angle may be less than 90°.

[0090] Glue G or other adhesive treatment is applied to an upper surface of the second keel panel 20 -to those portions of the second keel panel 20 exposed by the cutaways A3, R- optionally, the glue G or other adhesive treatment may also be applied to an upper surface of the second upper panel 28.

[0091] The first side panel 14 together with the first upper panel 12 are folded about fold line 15 to dispose the first side panel 14 about sides of upper portions of the articles B received in the first lower panel 16. The first side panel 14 may be folded through an angle less than 90° such that the first side panel 14 is inclined at an oblique angle with respect to the first lower panel 16, the first side panel 14 and first lower panel 16 define in part a first chamber having an interior in which the first side panel 14 and first lower panel 16 define an internal angle therebetween, the internal angle may be greater than 90°.

[0092] The first upper panel 12 is folded with respect to the first side panel 14. The first upper panel 12 is brought into overlying relationship with at least portions of the second upper panel 28 and second keel panel 20 and is brought into face contacting relationship with the second upper panel 28. In doing so, upper portions of the articles B engaged by the first lower panel 16 are received in apertures A1 in the first upper panel 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper portions of the articles B are provided by end closures or caps C.

[0093] The first upper panel 12 is secured to at least one of the second upper panel 28 and second keel panel 20. The assembled carrier 90 is shown in Figures 6 and 7. The upper panels 12, 28 form engaging panels, receiving, and engaging with the articles B, the lower panels 16, 24 form support panels suspending the articles B therefrom.

[0094] Referring now to Figures 8 to 14, there is shown alternative embodiments of the present disclosure. In the second and third illustrated embodiments, like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix “100"; “200” to indicate that these features belong to the second and third embodiment, respectively. The alternative embodiments share many common features with the embodiment of Figures 1 to 7, therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 7, and described above, will be described in any greater detail.

[0095] Referring to Figure 8, there is shown a blank 110 comprising a plurality of panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124, 126, 128, including a top or cover panel 112 for forming an upper wall or cover of a carrier 190 (see Figure 11)

[0096] A first side panel 114 is hingedly connected to a first side of the first upper panel 116 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 113. A first lower panel (or wing panel) 116, or first engaging panel 116, is hingedly connected to the first side panel 114 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 115.

[0097] The blank 110 comprises a brace or keel structure for increasing the rigidity of the carrier 190. The brace or keel structure may take the form of a beam extending longitudinally of the carrier 190.

[0098] A keel structure is hingedly connected to the first lower panel 116, the keel structure comprises; a first keel panel 118, also referred to herein as a beam panel, hingedly connected to the first lower panel 116 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 117, a second keel panel 120 hingedly connected to the first keel panel 118 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 119, and a third keel panel 122, also referred to herein as a beam panel, hingedly connected to the second keel panel 120 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 121.

[0099] A second lower panel (or wing panel) 124, or second engaging panel 124, is hingedly connected to the third keel panel 122 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 123

[0100] A second side panel 126 is hingedly connected to the second lower panel 124 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 125. A second upper panel 128 is hingedly connected to the second side panel 126 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 127.

[0101] The first upper panel 112, second upper panel 128, first and second side panels 114, 126, first and second lower / wing panels 116, 124 form an outer shell structure while the first, second, and third keel panels 118, 120 122 form a keel structure. Each of the outer shell structure and the keel structure of the embodiment of Figures 8 to 12 is generally tubular. The term “generally tubular” in the present disclosure refers to a shape or configuration which may not be fully tubular in the sense that the interior space of the generally tubular structure is not entirely encircled by the associated outer shell. Such an outer shell defines a tubular axis but may have a gap extending along the tubular axis which extends at least partially along the length of the outer shell. The embodiment of Figures 8 to 12 shows examples of such generally tubular structures of a channel-shape having a generally “C” shaped or “U” shaped cross section. More specifically, the outer shell structure formed from the panels 112, 128, 114, 126, 116, 124 is a generally tubular structure with a gap between the wing panels 116, 124 while the keel structure formed from the first, second, and third keel panels 118, 120, 122 is a generally tubular structure with a gap between the lower ends of the first and third keel panels 118, 122. Both of the gaps in the examples extends entirely along the respective tubular axis or channel axis.

[0102] The first upper panel 112 is configured to cover the entire top of the carrier 190, that is to say it extends across the carrier 190 from the first side panel 114 to the second side panel 126. The upper panel 112 comprises six apertures A1 arranged in a 2 x 3 matrix or array. A first end closure flap 130A is hinged to a first end of the upper panel 112 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 131 A. A first bridging tab 132A is hinged to the first end closure flap 130A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 133A. A second end closure flap 130B is hinged to a second end of the upper panel 112 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 131 B. A second bridging tab 132B is hinged to the second end closure flap 130B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 133B.

[0103] The second upper panel 128 is a partial cover panel and forms an inner upper panel The second upper panel comprises article receiving apertures A5 for receiving a respective one of the articles B engaged by the second lower panel 124. The second upper panel comprises recesses or cutaways R1 in a side edge opposing the hinged connection to the second side panel 126. The recesses R1 are configured to be aligned with a portion of the handle openings in the first upper panel 112 and the second keel panel 120.

[0104] The first upper panel 112 and second upper panel 128 are shorter in length than the first and second lower panels 116, 124. The first upper panel 112 and second upper panel 128 have a length L1, the first and second lower panels 116, 124 have a length L2, length L1 is less than length L2.

[0105] Optionally, the second keel panel 120 may be shorter in length than the first upper panel 112 and second upper panel 128. The fold line 135A is offset, inset, with respect to the fold line 131 A. The fold line 135B is offset, inset, with respect to the fold line 131 B. In this way the first end closure panel 134A may be positioned in a spaced parallel arrangement with the first end flap 130A and so may the second end closure panel 134B be with the second end flap 130B.

[0106] The first and second end closure panels 134A, 134B may be configured so as to be disposed between a pair of adjacent endmost articles B Notional extensions of fold lines 135A, 135B may intersect the article receiving openings of the article retention structures RT in the first and second lower panels 116, 124 and may insect the article receiving apertures A1 in the first upper panel 112 and / or the article receiving apertures A5 in the second upper panel 128. The first and third keel panels 118, 122 may abut at least a portion of a respective one of the pair of adjacent endmost articles B and the first and second end closure panels 134A, 134B may form a brace between said articles B.

[0107] The first side panel 114 is tapered in shape to extend between the first lower panel 116 and the first upper panel 112 and is generally trapezoidal in shape.

[0108] The second side panel 126 is tapered in shape to extend between the second lower panel 124 and the second upper panel 128 and is generally trapezoidal in shape.

[0109] The keel structure is configured to be generally rectangular in cross sectional shape, the first, second, and third keel panels 118, 120, 122 form an inverted “U” shape or channel.

[0110] Each end of the keel structure comprises an end closure, wherein a first end closure structure closes a first end of the channel, and a second end closure structure closes a second end of the channel.

[0111] The first end closure structure comprises a first end closure panel 134A hingedly connected to a first end of the second keel panel 120 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 135A. A first web panel 136A is hingedly connected to a first side of the first end closure panel 134A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 137A. The first web panel 136A is hingedly connected to a first end of the first keel panel 118 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 145A. Fold line 145A is convergently arranged with respect to fold line 137 A, the first web panel 136A is generally triangular in shape.

[0112] A second web panel 138A is hingedly connected to a second side of the first end closure panel 134A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 139A. The second web panel 138A is hingedly connected to a first end of the third keel panel 122 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 147A. Fold line 147A is convergently arranged with respect to fold line 139A, the second web panel 138A is generally triangular in shape.

[0113] The second end closure structure comprises a second end closure panel 134B hingedly connected to a second end of the second keel panel 120 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 135B. A third web panel 136B is hingedly connected to a first side of the second end closure panel 134B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 137B. The third web panel 136B is hingedly connected to a second end of the first keel panel 118 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 145B. Fold line 145B is convergently arranged with respect to fold line 137B, the third web panel 136B is generally triangular in shape.

[0114] A fourth web panel 138B is hingedly connected to a second side of the second end closure panel 134B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 139B. The fourth web panel 138B is hingedly connected to a second end of the third keel panel 122 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 147B. Fold line 147B is convergently arranged with respect to fold line 139B, the fourth web panel 138B is generally triangular in shape.

[0115] Fold line 137A and fold line 137B are collinear with fold line 119. Fold line 139A and fold line 139B are collinear with fold line 121.

[0116] The first and second end closure panels 134A, 134B close ends of the channel defined by the keel panels 118, 120,122 and maintain the channel in an erected condition provide rigidity. The web panels 136A, 136B, 138A , 138B are folded into face-to-face relationship with the first or third keel panel 118, 122 to which they are hinged as shown in Figures 9 and 10. The web panels 136A, 136B, 138A ,138B inhibit or prevent unintentional unfolding of the first and second end closure panels 134A, 134B.

[0117] The first and second end flaps 130A, 130B are folded with respect to the first upper panel 112 to close ends of the tubular structure defined, at least in part, by the upper panel 112 and first and second side panels 114, 126.

[0118] Glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to the first and second bridging tabs 132A, 132B or to corresponding regions of the first and second lower panels 116, 124. The first and second bridging tabs 132A, 132B are folded with respect to the first or second end flap 130A, 130B to which they are hinged, the first and second bridging tabs 132A, 132B are brought into face contacting relationship with the lower or outer surface of the first and second lower panels 116, 124 and are secured thereto. The first and second bridging tabs 132A, 132B each provide a securing device for securing the first lower panel 116 in a static, fixed or predefined relationship with respect to the second lower panel 124. In the illustrated embodiment, the first lower panel 116 is spaced apart from the second lower panel 124 and may be separated by a distance substantially to equal the width Pw7 of the second keel panel 120. In other embodiments, the distance may be greater or less than the width Pw7 of the second keel panel 120.

[0119] Glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to the upper or outer surface of the second keel panel 120, the first upper panel 112 may be brought into face contacting relationship with the second keel panel 120 and may be secured thereto.

[0120] Glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to the upper or outer surface of the second upper panel 128, the first upper panel 112 may be brought into face contacting relationship with the second upper panel 128 and may be secured thereto Each of the articles B, in the group of articles B being packaged by the blank 110, is received in a respective one of the article receiving apertures A1 provided in the first upper panel 112.

[0121] Figure 11 shows the erected carrier 190 and Figure 12 illustrates an end of the carrier 190 from below and shows the first bridging tab 132A securing the first lower / wing panel 116 in a spaced apart relationship from the second lower / wing panel 124. The first end closure flap 130A and first bringing tab 132A conceal from view the first end closure panel 134A and web panels 136A, 138A.

[0122] Referring to Figure 13, there is shown a blank 210 comprising a plurality of panels 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, 222, 224, 226, 228 including a first upper panel 212 for forming, at least in part, a top wall of a carrier 290 (see Figure 14).

[0123] A first side panel 214 is hingedly connected to a first side of the first upper panel 216 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 213. A first lower panel 216, or first engaging panel 216, is hingedly connected to the first side panel 214 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 215. The blank 210 comprises a brace or keel structure for increasing the rigidity of the carrier 290. The brace or keel structure may take the form of a beam extending longitudinally of the carrier 290.

[0124] A keel structure is hingedly connected to the first lower panel 216, the keel structure comprises; a first keel panel 218, also referred to herein as a beam panel, hingedly connected to the first lower panel 216 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 217, a second keel panel 220 hingedly connected to the first keel panel 218 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 219, and a third keel panel 222, also referred to herein as a beam panel, hingedly connected to the second keel panel 220 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 221.

[0125] A second lower panel 224, or second engaging panel 224, is hingedly connected to the third keel panel 222 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 223.

[0126] A second side panel 226 is hingedly connected to the second lower panel 224 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 225. A second upper panel 228 is hingedly connected to the second side panel 226 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 227.

[0127] The first upper panel 212, second upper panel 228, first and second side panels 214, 226, first and second lower panels 216, 224 and first and third keel panels 218, 222 form tubular structures.

[0128] The first and third keel panels 218, 222 are shorter in length, at least in part, than the first or second lower panel 216, 224 to which they are hinged. The fold lines 217, 223 only extend across a part of the length of the first or second lower panel 216, 224. The fold line 217 terminates at each end with a outline C3. The outlines C3 extend from the fold line 217 to a side edge of the first lower panel 216, the side edge opposes a hinged edge defined by the fold line 215 hinging the first side panel 214 to the first lower panel 216.

[0129] The fold line 222 terminates at each end with a cutline C4. The cutlines 04 extend from the fold line 223 to a side edge of the second lower panel 224, the side edge opposes a hinged edge defined by the fold line 225 hinging the second side panel 226 to the second lower panel 224.

[0130] In this way the first and second keel panels 218, 222 can be considered to be struck in part from a respective one of the first and second lower panels 216, 224, the hinged connection, fold line 217, 223, between a beam panel 218, 222 and the adjacent one of the first and second lower panels 216, 224 is offset with respect to a side edge of said adjacent one of the first and second lower panels 216, 224.

[0131] The outlines 03, C4 define in part a tab T3, T4 extending from a respective one of the first and second lower panels 216, 224. The first lower panel 216 comprises a pair of first tabs T3, a first one of the pair of first tabs T3 is provided at a first end of the first lower panel 216 and a second one of the pair of first tabs T3 is provided at a second, opposing, end of the first lower panel 216.

[0132] The second lower panel 224 comprises a pair of second tabs T4, a first one of the pair of second tabs T4 is provided at a first end of the second lower panel 224 and a second one of the pair of second tabs T4 is provided at a second, opposing, end of the second lower panel 224.

[0133] In the illustrated embodiment, the first and third keel panels 218, 222 are substantially trapezoidal in shape. Opposed ends of the first and third keel panels 218, 222, defined by pairs of cutlines C3, C4 are divergently arranged so as to diverge towards the second keel panel 222. In other embodiments, other shapes may be employed by those keel panels 218, 222 including but not limited to rectangular. The second keel panel 222 may be substantially equal in length to the first and second lower panels 216, 224 and / or the first and second upper panels 212, 228; this provides greater surface area for securing the second keel panel 222 to the first upper panel 212. In other embodiments, the second keel panel 222 is shorter in length than the first and second lower panels 216, 224 and / or the first and second upper panels 212, 228.

[0134] In this way a securing device is provided at each end of the lower panels 216, 224, each securing device comprises a first tab T3 and second tab T4. The cut lines C3, C4 can be considered define cutaways in the first and third keel panels 218, 224 which form, at least in part, respective receiver openings. The receiver openings may be defined in part by recesses or notches R3, R4 struck from the first and third keel panels 218, 224.

[0135] The first and second lower panels 216, 224 of the blank 210 each include at least one article retention structure RT. The blank 210 comprises a plurality of article retention structures RT, specifically six article retention structures RT arranged in a 2 x 3 matrix or array, a first column of three article retention structures RT is provided in the first lower panel 216 and a second column of three article retention structures RT is provided in the second lower panel 224. Each of the article retention structures RT comprises an article receiving opening defined, at least in part, by engaging tabs or teeth 240, 242, the article retention structures RT are substantially similar to those shown in Figure 1 and described above and will not be discussed in further detail.

[0136] Figure 14 shows an end of the carrier 290 formed from the blank 210, a first one of the pair of first tabs T3 is shown secured in overlapping relationship with a first one of the pair of second tabs T4.

[0137] The present disclosure provides a carrier 90; 190; 290 for engaging at least one article B. The article carrier 90; 190; 290 comprises a pair of spaced apart panels 12 / 28, 16 / 24; 112, 116 / 124; 212 / 228, 216 / 224 including an upper panel 12 / 28; 112; 212 / 228 and a lower panel 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224.

[0138] Referring now to Figures 15 to 20, there is shown a further alternative embodiment of the present disclosure. In the fourth illustrated embodiment, like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix "300” to indicate that these features belong to the fourth embodiment.

[0139] Figure 15 illustrates a blank 310 comprising a plurality of panels 312, 314, 316, 318, 320, 322, 324, 326 hinged one to the next in a linear series by respective fold lines 313, 315, 317, 319, 321, 323, 325. The plurality of panels 312, 314, 316, 318, 320, 322, 324, 326 includes a first top or upper panel 312 for forming, at least in part, a top wall of a carrier 390 (see Figure 16).

[0140] A first side panel 314 is hingedly connected to a first side of the first top panel 312 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 313. A bottom or lower panel 316, also referred to herein as first engaging panel 316, is hingedly connected along a first side thereof to the first side panel 314 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 315.

[0141] A second side panel 318 is hingedly connected to a second, opposing, side of the bottom panel 316 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 317.

[0142] A second top or upper panel 320 is hingedly connected to the second side panel 318 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 319.

[0143] The blank 10 comprises a brace or keel structure for increasing the rigidity of the carrier 390. The brace or keel structure may take the form of a beam extending longitudinally of the carrier 390. A keel structure is hingedly connected to the second top or upper panel 32O.Tthe keel structure comprises a first keel panel 322, also referred to herein as a leg or beam panel, hingedly connected to the second top or upper panel 320 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 321. A second keel panel 324, also referred to herein as a table or spacer panel, is hingedly connected to the first keel panel 322 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 323 and a third keel panel 326, also referred to herein as a leg or beam panel, is hingedly connected to the second keel panel 324 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 325.

[0144] The plurality of panels 312, 314, 316, 318, 320, 322, 324, 326 includes a plurality of main panels 312, 314, 316, 318, 320 forming a tubular structure having an interior. Each end of the tubular structure is at least partially closed by an end closure structure.

[0145] A first end closure structure closes a first end of the tubular structure and a second end closure structure closes a second, opposing, end of the tubular structure. The first end closure structure comprises a plurality of first end closure panels 328A, 330A, 332A, 334A, 336A, 338A, 340A. A first end closure panel 328A is hingedly connected to a first end of the first top or upper panel 312 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 327A. A second end closure panel 334A is hingedly connected to a first end of the bottom or lower panel 316 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 335A. A third end closure panel 340A is hingedly connected to a first end of the second top or upper panel 320 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 349A.

[0146] The first end closure panel 328A Is coupled to the second end closure panel 334A by at least one connecting panel 330A, 332A. In the illustrated embodiment, the first end closure panel 328A is coupled to the second end closure panel 334A by a pair of connecting panels 330A, 332A including a first anchor panel 330A and a first web panel 332A. The first anchor panel 330A is hingedly connected to a first end of the first side panel 314 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 329A. The first anchor panel 330A is hingedly connected to the first end closure panel 328A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 343A. The first web panel 332A is hingedly connected to the first anchor panel 330A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 331A. The first web panel 332A is hingedly connected to the second end closure panel 334A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 333A.

[0147] An aperture A4 may be struck in part from each of the first anchor panel 330A and the first web panel 332A. The aperture A4 is disposed at a first corner of the bottom or lower panel 316. The aperture A4 may interrupt at least one or more of the fold lines 329A, 331 A, 333A, 315, 335A which would otherwise intersect at said first corner of the bottom or lower panel 316.

[0148] The second end closure panel 334A is coupled to the third end closure panel 340A by at least one connecting panel 336A, 338A. In the illustrated embodiment, the second end closure panel 334A is coupled to the third end closure panel 340A by a pair of connecting panels 336A, 338A including a second anchor panel 338A and a second web panel 336A. The second anchor panel 338A is hingedly connected to a first end of the second side panel 318 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 341A. The second anchor panel 338A is hingedly connected to the third end closure panel 340A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 345A. The second web panel 336A is hingedly connected to the second anchor panel 338A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 339A. The second web panel 336A is hingedly connected to the second end closure panel 334A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 337A. An aperture A4 may be struck in part from each of the second anchor panel 338A and the second web panel 336A. The aperture A4 is disposed at a second corner of the bottom or lower panel 316. The aperture A4 may interrupt at least one or more of the fold lines 337 A, 339A, 341 A, 317, 335A which would otherwise intersect at said second corner of the bottom or lower panel 316.

[0149] The second end closure structure comprises a plurality of second end closure panels 328B, 330B, 332B, 334B, 336B, 338B, 340B. The plurality of second end closure panels 328B, 330B, 332B, 334B, 336B, 338B, 340B comprises a fourth end closure panel 328B, a fifth end closure panel 334B, and a sixth end closure panel 340B along with third and fourth anchor panels 330B, 338B and third and fourth web panels 332B, 336B. The plurality of second end closure panels 328B, 330B, 332B, 334B, 336B, 338B, 340B are configured and arranged substantially similarly to the plurality of first end closure panels 328A, 330A, 332A, 334A, 336A, 338A, 340A, albeit in mirror symmetry thereto, and will not be described in further detail.

[0150] The blank 310 comprises at least one article engaging structure RT, also referred to as an article retention device RT, for engaging and supporting an article B. The illustrated embodiment comprises a plurality of article engaging structures RT, specifically, but not limited to, six article engaging structures RT. In the illustrated embodiment, the article engaging structures RT are arranged in a matrix or array, specifically, but not limited to, a 2 x 3 matrix or array. Each article engaging structure RT comprises an article receiving opening struck in part from the bottom panel 316 and in part from one of the first and second side panels 314, 318. The article receiving opening is defined, at least in part, by an engaging tab 340. The engaging tab 340 is struck in part from the bottom panel 316 and is hingedly connected thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 341 . The engaging tab 340 is struck in part from one of the first and second side panels 314, 318. In this way one or both of the article receiving opening and the engaging tab 340 interrupts the hinged connection, fold line 315, 317, between the bottom panel 316 and a respective one of the first and second side panels 314, 318. The article receiving opening may be defined in part by an aperture A2 struck from, or defined in one of the first and second side panels 314, 318, the aperture A2 being disposed adjacent to the engaging tab 340 to define a free edge thereof, the free edge opposing a hinged edge defined by fold line 341 and providing an engaging or support edge for suspending an article B therefrom.

[0151] The first top panel 312 may comprise at least one article receiving aperture A1. The illustrated embodiment comprises a plurality of article receiving apertures A1, specifically, but not limited to, six article receiving apertures A1. In the illustrated embodiment, the article receiving apertures A1 are arranged in a matrix or array, specifically, but not limited to, a 2 x 3 matrix or array. The, or each, article receiving aperture A1 is disposed in vertical registry with a respective one of the at least one article engaging structures RT The article receiving aperture A1 is defined by a cutline, the cutline may be configured such that at least a portion of the perimeter of the article receiving aperture A1 is scalloped or serrated in shape.

[0152] The second top panel 320 may comprise at least one second or inner article receiving aperture A3. The illustrated embodiment comprises a plurality of second article receiving apertures A3, specifically, but not limited to, three second article receiving apertures A3. In the illustrated embodiment, the second article receiving apertures A3 are arranged in a matrix or array, specifically, but not limited to, a 1 x 3 matrix or array. The second article receiving apertures A3 may extend into the first keel panel 322, interrupting the fold line 321 hinging the first keel panel 322 to the second top panel 320. The second article receiving apertures A3 may define a “keyhole” shaped cutaway. The second article receiving aperture A3 defines a free or engaging edge of the first keel panel 322. The second article receiving aperture A3 may receive a portion of an article B; the free or engaging edge may be disposed or engaged below a portion of a flange or other projection of the article B received by the second article receiving aperture A3. A cutline C3 may extend from the second article receiving aperture A3 into the first keel panel 322 to define a pair of displaceable or foldable tabs disposed thereabout, each providing a portion of the engaging edge of the first keel panel 322 defined by the second article receiving aperture A3.

[0153] The blank 310 comprises a panel interlocking device for securing the first top panel 312 to at least one of the bottom panel 316 and the second keel panel 324.

[0154] The panel interlocking device comprises at least one locking tab 360 struck from, or defined in, the first top panel 312. The illustrated embodiment comprises a pair of locking tabs 360 each struck from, or defined in, the first top panel 312. The pair of locking tabs 360 define an opening in the first top panel 312. The opening may be ‘bow-tie” shaped. The pair of locking tabs 360 are each hinged to the first top panel 312 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 361. The fold lines 361 define opposed ends of the opening in the first top panel 312. The pair of locking tabs 360 are hinged in opposition to each other and are separated from each other by a cut line or severable line 363. Each of the locking tabs 360 comprises a pair of wing portions 362 along opposed marginal side edges thereof. Each wing portion 362 is hingedly connected to the locking tab 360 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 365. The wing portion is defined in part by a cutline 367; the cutline 367 defines, at least in part, a catch or detent for securing the locking tab 360 to the bottom panel 316. The outlines 367 define, at least in part, a head portion of the locking tab 360 which passes through an opening in the bottom panel 316 providing a receiver for the locking tab 360.

[0155] The bottom panel 316 comprises at least one receiver providing a receiver opening for receiving a portion of the locking tab 360 The receiver opening is defined, at least in part, by a receiver tab 370. The receiver tab 370 is struck from, or defined in, the bottom panel 316 and is hingedly connected to the bottom panel 316 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 371. The illustrated embodiment comprises a pair of receivers, each receiver comprising a receiver opening defined by a receiver tab 370. The pair of receiver tabs 370 are hinged in opposition to each other.

[0156] Each receiver tab 370 is hinged in opposition to the locking tab 360 that it is configured to receive

[0157] The receiver opening or receiver tab 370 is defined, at least in part, by a cutline 373. The cutline 373 defines a waist or restriction in the receiver opening for preventing or inhibiting the locking tab 360 from unintentionally unfolding or separating from the receiver.

[0158] The second keel panel 324 comprises at least one opening. In the illustrated embodiment, the second keel panel 324 comprises a pair of openings. Each opening is configured to be in vertical registry with one of the receiver openings in the bottom panel 316. Each opening may be struck in part from, or defined in part in, each of the first and third keel panels 322, 326. In this way, the opening interrupts the respective hinged connections between the first and third keel panels 322, 326 and the second keel panel 324.

[0159] Each opening in the second keel panel 324 may be defined by a tab 380 struck, at least in part, from the second keel panel 324 and hingedly connected thereto by a hinged connection defined between opposed ends of a cutline 383. The cutline 383 defines a waist or restriction in the opening for preventing or inhibiting the locking tab 360 from unintentionally unfolding or separating from the receiver.

[0160] The second keel panel 324 comprises a first width or linear dimension W1 defined between the fold line 323, hinging the first keel panel 322 to the second keel panel 324, and the fold line 325, hinging the third keel panel 326 to the second keel panel 324.

[0161] The bottom panel 316 comprises a first row of article engaging devices RT and a second row of article engaging devices RT. In the illustrated embodiment, each row comprises three article engaging devices RT. The article receiver openings of the article engaging devices RT in the first row of article engaging devices RT are spaced apart from the article receiver openings of the article engaging devices RT in the second row of article engaging devices RT by a second linear dimension W2. The second linear dimension W2 is greater than the first linear dimension W1.

[0162] In order to stabilize the keel structure, and / or maintain the second keel panel 324 in a fixed position in which each of the openings in the second keel panel 324 is aligned with a respective receiver opening in the bottom panel 316, the second keel panel 324 comprises alignment or spacer tabs T2, T3. The second keel panel 324 comprises at least one pair of spacer tabs T2, T3; the illustrated embodiment comprises two pairs of spacer tabs T2, T3. Each pair of spacer tabs T2, T3 comprises a first spacer tab T2, T3 struck from the first keel panel 322 and integral with the second keel panel 324 and a second spacer tab T2, T3 struck from the third keel panel 326 and integral with the second keel panel 324. The first and second spacer tabs T2, T3 are arranged in opposition to each other so as to increase the effective maximum width of the second keel panel 324. Each of the first and second spacer tabs T2, T3 comprises a free edge defined by a respective cutline C4, C5. A free edge of the first spacer tab T2, T3 is disposed a third linear dimension W3, at the widest location, from a free edge of the second spacer tab T2, T3. In this way, the pair of spacer tabs T2, T3 define a maximum effective width dimension W3 of the second keel panel 324.

[0163] The maximum effective width dimension W3 of the second keel panel 324 is greater than the first width or linear dimension W1 defined between fold line 323 and fold line 325.

[0164] The maximum effective width dimension W3 of the second keel panel 324 may be approximately equal or equal to the second linear dimension W2 defined between a pair of opposed receiver openings or between the engaging tabs 340 of a pair of opposed article engaging devices RT.

[0165] In this way, the engaging tabs 340 of a pair of opposed article engaging devices RT provide reference points or devices to position the second keel panel 324 therebetween. In embodiments in which the engaging tabs 340 are omitted, the articles B received in each of the pair of opposed article engaging devices RT may provide reference points or devices to position the second keel panel 324 therebetween. The first end closure panel 328A may comprise at least one recess R in a free side edge thereof, the free side edge opposes a hinged edge defined by the hinged connection, fold line 327A, between the first end closure panel 328A and the first top panel 312 In the illustrated embodiment, the first end closure panel 328A comprises a pair of recesses R in a free side edge thereof. The recesses R are configured to accommodate an article B received in the carrier 390 when the first end closure panel 328A is folded into face-to-face relationship with the first top panel 312. The fourth end closure panel 328B is similarly configured with a pair of recesses R.

[0166] The third end closure panel 340A may comprise at least one recess R in a free side edge thereof, the free side edge opposes a hinged edge defined by the hinged connection, fold line 349A, between the third end closure panel 340A and the second top panel 320. The sixth end closure panel 340B is similarly configured with a recess R.

[0167] Each of the first and second end closure structures comprises a securing device. Each securing device comprises a securing receiver in a respective one of the first and fourth end closure panels 328A, 328B and a locking tab T 1 provided by a respective one of the second and fifth end closure panels 334A, 334B. The securing receiver takes the form of an aperture A5 struck from, or defined in, one of the first and fourth end closure panels 328A, 328B. The tabs T 1 may be defined, at least in part, by a pair of cutways C1 . The cutaways C1 may take the form of recesses struck from a free end edge of the second or fifth end closure panel 334A, 334B. In an assembled condition, the locking tab T 1 is received in the aperture A5 of the respective one of the first and second end closure structures.

[0168] Optionally, the blank 310 comprises at least one alignment tab for aligning the first top panel 312 with respect to the second top panel 320. The illustrated embodiment comprises a pair of alignment tabs, each alignment tab is defined in part by a cut line 02 struck from, or defined in, the second top panel 320. The cut line C2 interrupts the fold line 319 between the second top panel 320 and the second side panel 318 such that the alignment tabs are integral with second side panel 318 and extend therefrom. When the second top panel 320 is folded with respect to the second side panel 318, the alignment tabs stand proud of the second top panel 320 to provide an edge or surface against which the first top panel 312 can engage or abut to align the first top panel 312 with respect to the second top panel 320.

[0169] The keel structure may be shorter in a longitudinal direction than the tubular structure. The first, second, and third keel panels 322, 324, 326 may be shorter in length than the main panels 312, 314, 316, 318, 320. This allows the keel structure to pass between the second and fourth end closure panels 334A, 334B during assembly of the carrier 390. The second top panel 320 forms an inner top panel through which a portion of each article B in one of the rows of articles B passes. The first top panel 312 is folded to form an outer top panel disposed in at least partial overlapping relationship with the second top panel 320. Each of the article retention devices RT receives an upper portion of an article B being packaged. Glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to the blank 310 to secure the carrier 390 in the assembled condition, for example, but not limited to, glue may be applied to one or both of the first and second top panels 312, 320 in a region of overlap so as to secure the first and second top panels 312, 320 to each other. In an assembled condition, a portion of the free side edge the third keel panel 326 may provide a support or engaging edge for suspending or engaging with articles B in one of the two rows of articles B received by the carrier 390. The free side edge engages below a flange or other suitable projection of the articles B.

[0170] The free or engaging edge of the first keel panel 322 defined by the second article receiving aperture A3 may suspend or engage with articles B in the other one of the two rows of articles B received by the carrier 390 The free or engaging edge of the first keel panel 322 engages below a flange or other suitable projection of the articles B.

[0171] The locking tabs 360 of the panel interlocking device may serve as a brace between the first and third keel panels 322, 326 maintaining the first and third keel panels 322, 326 in a spaced apart relationship. This provides a rigid keel extending longitudinally of the tubular structure between two rows of articles B. Additionally, or alternatively, bracing of the keel structure by the locking tabs 360 may prevent, or inhibit, disengagement of the first and third keel panels 322, 326 from the articles B. The first and third keel panels 322, 326 may be disposed in face-to-face relationship, and may be in face-contacting relationship with the respective adjacent engaging tabs 340 whereby preventing, or inhibiting, disengagement of the engaging tabs 240 from the articles B.

[0172] The wing portions 326 when folded with respect to the main body of the locking tabs 360 may increase the strength or rigidity of the locking tabs 360 reducing the likelihood of bending or deformation of the locking tabs 360 under load so as to increase the effectiveness of their bracing function.

[0173] The present disclosure provides an article carrier 90; 190; 290 comprising a plurality of primary panels including a pair of spaced apart panels 12 / 28, 16 / 24; 112, 116 / 124; 212 / 228, 216 / 224 comprising an upper panel 12 / 28; 112; 212 / 228 and a lower panel 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224 and a pair of side panels 14, 26; 114, 126; 214, 226 extending between the upper and lower panels 12 / 28, 16 / 24; 112, 116 / 124; 212 / 228, 216 / 224. Each side panel 14, 26; 114, 126; 214, 226 is hingedly connected to the lower panel 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224 by a respective fold line 15, 25; 115, 125; 215, 225.

[0174] Each side panel 14, 26; 114, 126; 214, 226 is hingedly connected to the upper panel 12 / 28; 112; 212 / 228 by a respective fold line 13, 27; 113, 127; 213, 227.

[0175] A first fold line 13; 113; 213 and a second fold line 27; 127; 227 define a first distance therebetween equal to the width W1 of the upper panel 12 / 28; 112; 212 / 228, see Figure 6.

[0176] A third fold line 15; 115; 215 and a fourth fold line 25; 125; 225 define a second distance therebetween equal to the width W2 of the lower panel 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224. The width W2 of the lower panel 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224 is less than the width W1 of the upper panel 12 / 28; 112; 212 / 228.

[0177] In the embodiment of Figure 1, the width W1 of the upper panel 12 / 28 is equal to the sum of the width Pw1 of the first upper panel 12 and the width Pw4 of the second upper panel 28 minus the distance PwO of overlap between the first and second upper panels 12, 28. The width W2 of the lower panel 16 / 24 is equal to the sum of the width Pw2 of the first lower panel 16 and the width Pw3 of the second lower panel 24.

[0178] In the embodiment of Figure 8, the width of the upper panel 112 / 128 is equal to the width Pw5 of the first upper panel 112. The width of the lower panel 116 / 124 is equal to the sum of the width Pw6 of the first lower panel 116, the width Pw7 of the second keel panel 120, and the width Pw8 of the second lower panel 124. In the embodiment of Figure 13, the width of the upper panel 212 / 228 is equal to the sum of the width PW1 of the first upper panel 212 and the width Pw4 of the second upper panel 228 minus the distance PwO of overlap between the first and second upper panels 212, 228. The width of the lower panel 216 / 224 is equal to the sum of the width Pw2 of the first lower panel 216 (where the width P 2 of the first lower panel 216 is defined between the fold line 215 and the fold line 217, and excludes the width of the first tabs T3) and the width Pw3 of the second lower panel 224 (where the width Pw4 of the second lower panel 224 is defined between the fold line 223 and the fold line 225 (and excludes the width of the second tabs T4).

[0179] The article carrier 90; 190; 290 further includes at least one article engaging device RT. The at least one engaging device RT formed at least in the lower panel 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224.

[0180] The present disclosure also provides an article carrier 90; 190; 290 comprising a plurality of primary panels 12 / 28, 16 / 24, 14, 26; 112, 116 / 124,114, 126; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, 214, 226 and a keel structure 18 / 20 / 22; 118 / 120 / 122; 218 / 220 / 222. The plurality of primary panels 12 / 28, 16 / 24, 14, 26; 112, 116 / 124,114, 126; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, 214, 226 includes a pair of wing panels 16, 24; 116, 124; 216, 224 disposed on the opposite sides of the keel structure 18 / 20 / 22; 118 / 120 / 122; 218 / 220 / 222 and forming, at least in part, a lower panel 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224. The keel structure comprises; a first leg or beam panel 18; 118; 218 hingedly connected to one of the wing panels 16, 24; 116, 124; 216, 224, a second leg or beam panel 22; 122; 222 opposing the first beam panel 18; 118; 218, and a table or spacer panel 20; 120; 220 extending between the leg or beam panels 18, 20; 118, 120; 218, 220. The second leg or beam panel 22; 122; 222 is hingedly connected to the other one of the wing panels 16, 24; 116, 124; 216, 224. The wing panels 16, 24; 116, 124; 216, 224 are connected together by a bridging tab T1 , T2, T3, T4, 132A, 132B which is secured adhesively to at least one of the wing panels 16, 24; 116, 124; 216, 224.

[0181] The bridging tab T1, T2, T3, T4, 132A, 132B may be in face contacting arrangement with both wing panels 16, 24; 116, 124; 216, 224.

[0182] The present disclosure provides an article carrier 90; 190; 290 comprising a plurality of primary panels 12 / 28, 16 / 24, 14, 26; 112, 116 / 124,114, 126; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, 214, 226 forming a tubular structure defining a tubular axis. The plurality of primary panels 12 / 28, 16 / 24, 14, 26; 112, 116 / 124,114, 126; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, 214, 226 includes a pair of spaced apart panels 12 / 28, 16 / 24; 112, 116 / 124; 212 / 228, 216 / 224 comprising an upper panel 12 / 28; 112; 212 / 228 and a lower panel 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224. At least one of the upper and lower panels 12 / 28, 16 / 24; 112, 116 / 124; 212 / 228, 216 / 224 comprises at least one article-engaging device RT, A1. The upper panel 12 / 28; 112; 212 / 228 has a first width W1, Pw1 + Pw4 - PwO; Pw5 extending perpendicularly to the tubular axis. The lower panel 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224 has a second width W2, Pw2 + Pw3; Pw6 + Pw7 + P 8 extending perpendicularly to the tubular axis and wherein the first width W1, P 1 + Pw4 — PwO; Pw5 is greater than the second width W2, Pw2 + Pw3; Pw6 + Pw7 + Pw8

[0183] Each of the first width dimension W1, Pw1 + Pw4 — PwO; Pw5 and the second width dimension W2, Pw2 + Pw3; Pw6 + Pw7 + Pw8 is measured as a dimension from a first hinged connection between a pair of adjacent panels to a second hinged connection between a second pair of adjacent panels. The present disclosure also provides an article carrier 90; 190; 290 comprising a plurality of primary panels 12 / 28, 16 / 24, 14, 26; 112, 116 / 124,114, 126; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, 214, 226 and a keel structure 18 / 20 / 22; 118 / 120 / 122; 218 / 220 / 222. The plurality of primary panels 12 / 28, 16 / 24, 14, 26; 112, 116 / 124,114, 126; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, 214, 226 includes a pair of spaced apart opposing panels 12 / 28, 16 / 24; 112, 116 / 124; 212 / 228, 216 / 224 comprising an upper panel 12 / 28; 112; 212 / 228 and a lower panel 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224. The lower panel 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224 comprises a pair of wing panels 16, 24; 116, 124; 216, 224 disposed on the opposite sides of the keel structure 18 / 20 / 22; 118 / 120 / 122; 218 / 220 / 222. The keel structure comprises a pair of opposing leg or beam panels 18, 20; 118, 120; 218, 220 and a table or spacer panel 20; 120; 220 bridging between the pair of opposing leg or beam panels 18, 20; 118, 120; 218, 220. The upper panel 12 / 28; 112; 212 / 228 is provided with at least two article-engaging devices A1 disposed on the opposite sides of the table or spacer panel 20; 120; 220.

[0184] The at least two article-engaging devices A1 may be dimensioned and positioned such that the opposed side edges of the table or spacer panel 20; 120; 220 are brought into contact with the articles B engaged by the at least two article-engaging devices A1 .

[0185] The present disclosure provides an article carrier 90; 190; 290 comprising a plurality of primary panels 12 / 28, 16 / 24, 14, 26; 112, 116 / 124,114, 126; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, 214, 226 forming a tubular structure defining a tubular axis. The plurality of primary panels 12 / 28, 16 / 24, 14, 26; 112, 116 / 124,114, 126; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, 214, 226 includes a pair of spaced apart opposing panels 12 / 28, 16 / 24; 112, 116 / 124; 212 / 228, 216 / 224 comprising an upper panel 12 / 28; 112; 212 / 228 and a lower panel 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224. At least the upper panel 12 / 28; 112; 212 / 228 comprises at least one article-engaging device A1 wherein the upper panel 12 / 28; 112; 212 / 228 has a first length L1 extending along the tubular axis. The lower panel 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224 has a second length L2 extending along the tubular axis and wherein the first length L1 is less than the second length L2.

[0186] The present disclosure also provides an article carrier 90; 190; 290 comprising a plurality of primary panels 12 / 28, 16 / 24, 14, 26; 112, 116 / 124,114, 126; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, 214, 226 and a keel structure 18 / 20 / 22; 118 / 120 / 122; 218 / 220 / 222. The plurality of panels 12 / 28, 16 / 24, 14, 26; 112, 116 / 124,114, 126; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, 214, 226 form a tubular structure defining a tubular axis. The primary panels 12 / 28, 16 / 24, 14, 26; 112, 116 / 124,114, 126; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, 214, 226 includes a pair of spaced apart opposing panels 12 / 28, 16 / 24; 112, 116 / 124; 212 / 228, 216 / 224 comprising an upper panel 12 / 28; 112; 212 / 228 and a lower panel 16 / 24; 116 / 124; 216 / 224. At least one of the upper and lower panels 12 / 28, 16 / 24; 112, 116 / 124; 212 / 228, 216 / 224 comprises at least one article-engaging device A1 , RT. The plurality of panels 12 / 28, 16 / 24, 14, 26; 112, 116 / 124,114, 126; 212 / 228, 216 / 224, 214, 226 further includes a first end closure panel 130A, 130B for at least partially closing an end of the tubular structure. The keel structure 18 / 20 / 22; 118 / 120 / 122; 218 / 220 / 222 is disposed within the tubular structure and comprises a second end closure panel 134A, 134B and wherein the first and second end closure panels 130A, 130B, 134A, 134B are spaced apart from each other.

[0187] The present disclosure also provides an article carrier 390 for packaging at least one article B and a blank 310 for forming the article carrier 390. The article carrier 390 or blank 310 comprises a plurality of primary panels 312, 314, 316, 318, 320 for forming a top-engaging structure. The plurality of primary panels 312, 314, 316, 318, 320 includes a base panel 316 and at least one side panel 314, 318 connected to the base panel 316 by a first hinged connection 315, 317. The base panel 316 comprises at least one engaging device RT for receiving and engaging an article B. The at least one engaging device RT includes an engaging tab 340 connected to the base panel 316 by a second hinged connection 341 The engaging tab 340 is formed in part from the base panel 316 and in part from the at least one side panel 314, 318. The engaging tab 340, when folded about the second hinged connection 341, defines an opening disposed astride the first hinged connection 315, 317.

[0188] The engaging tab 340 may have a first length dimension L1 extending between the second hinged connection 341 and a distal end of the engaging tab 340. The second hinged connection 341 is disposed at a distance D2 from the first hinged connection 315, 317. The first length dimension L1 is greater than the distance D2.

[0189] The present disclosure also provides an article carrier 390 for packaging at least one article B and a blank 310 for forming the article carrier 390. The article carrier 390 or blank 310 comprises a plurality of primary panels 312, 314, 316, 318, 320 for forming a top-engaging structure. The plurality of primary panels 312, 314, 316, 318, 320 includes a base panel 316 and a floor keel panel 324 disposed in face contacting arrangement with the base panel 316. The base panel 316 comprises a pair of adjacent engaging devices RT each for receiving and engaging an article B. Each of the adjacent engaging devices RT includes an engaging tab 340 connected to the base panel 316 for load-bearing engagement with an article B received in each engaging device RT. The floor keel panel 324 comprises a pair of positioning projections T2, T3 along its opposed side edges. The positioning projections T2, T3 may be disposed in abutment with respective ones of the engaging tabs 340 of the adjacent engaging devices RT to facilitate positioning of the floor keel panel 324 between the adjacent engaging devices RT. The positioning projections T2, T3 may align the floor keel panel 324 centrally between the adjacent engaging devices RT.

[0190] The opposed side edges are defined by hinged connections, fold lines 323, 325, between the floor keel panel 324 and a respective one of a pair of beam keel panels 322, 326. The floor keel panel 324 comprises a first width dimension W1 defined between the opposed side edges. The positioning projections T2, T3 define a second width dimension W2. The second width dimension W2 is greater than the first width dimension W1. The engaging tabs 340 of the adjacent engaging devices RT are spaced apart from each other by a second distance W3. The second distance W3 is greater than the first width dimension W1. The second distance W3 may be approximately equal to the second width dimension W2.

[0191] The engaging tab 340 of each engaging device is connected to the base panel 316 by a hinged connection 341. The hinged connections 341 of the engaging tabs 340 of the adjacent engaging devices RT are disposed at a second distance W3.

[0192] The present disclosure also provides an article carrier 390 for packaging at least one article B and a blank 310 for forming the article carrier 390. The article carrier 390 or blank 310 comprises a plurality of primary panels 312, 314, 316, 318, 320 forming a tubular structure defining a tubular axis. The plurality of primary panels 312, 314, 316, 318, 320 includes a pair of spaced apart panels comprising an upper panel 312 and a lower panel 316. At least one of the upper and lower panels 312, 316 comprises at least one article-engaging device RT, A1. The upper panel 312 has an upper panel width W3 extending perpendicularly to the tubular axis. The lower panel 316 has a lower panel width W4 extending perpendicularly to the tubular axis. The upper panel width W3 is greater than the lower panel width W4. Each of the upper panel width W3 and the lower panel width W4 is measured as a dimension from a first hinged connection, between a pair of adjacent primary panels, to a second hinged connection, between a second pair of adjacent primary panels.

[0193] The lower panel 316 is a single continuous panel having a pair of opposed side edges each extending parallel to the tubular axis, and wherein the lower panel width W4 extends between the opposed side edges of the lower panel 316.

[0194] It will be recognized that as used herein, directional references such as "top", "bottom", “base”, "front”, "back", "end", "side", "inner", "outer", "upper" and "lower" do not necessarily limit the respective panels to such orientation, but may merely serve to distinguish these panels from one another.

[0195] As used herein, the terms “hinged connection” and “fold line” refer to all manner of lines that define hinge features of the blank, facilitate folding portions of the blank with respect to one another, or otherwise indicate optimal panel folding locations for the blank. Any reference to “hinged connection” should not be construed as necessarily referring to a single fold line only; indeed, a hinged connection can be formed from two or more fold lines wherein each of the two or more fold lines may be either straight / li near or curved / curvilinear in shape. When linear fold lines form a hinged connection, they may be disposed parallel with each other or be slightly angled with respect to each other. When curvilinear fold lines form a hinged connection, they may intersect each other to define a shaped panel within the area surrounded by the curvilinear fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may comprise a pair of arched or arcuate fold lines intersecting at two points such that they define an elliptical panel therebetween. A hinged connection may be formed from one or more linear fold lines and one or more curvilinear fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may comprise a combination of a linear fold line and an arched or arcuate fold line which intersect at two points such that they define a half-moon shaped panel therebetween.

[0196] As used herein, the term “fold line” may refer to one of the following: a scored line, an embossed line, a debossed line, a line of perforations, a line of short slits, a line of half-cuts, a single half-cut, an interrupted cutline, a line of aligned slits, a line of scores and any combination of the aforesaid options.

[0197] It should be understood that hinged connections and fold lines can each include elements that are formed in the substrate of the blank including perforations, a line of perforations, a line of short slits, a line of half-cuts, a single half-cut, a cutline, an interrupted cutline, slits, scores, embossed lines, debossed lines, any combination thereof, and the like. The elements can be dimensioned and arranged to provide the desired functionality. For example, a line of perforations can be dimensioned or designed with degrees of weakness to define a fold line and / or a severance line. The line of perforations can be designed to facilitate folding and resist breaking, to facilitate folding and facilitate breaking with more effort, or to facilitate breaking with little effort.

[0198] The phrase “in registry with” as used herein refers to the alignment of two or more elements in an erected carton, such as an aperture formed in a first of two overlapping panels and a second aperture formed in a second of two overlapping panels. Those elements in registry with each other may be aligned with each other in the direction of the thickness of the overlapping panels. For example, when an aperture in a first panel is “in registry with” a second aperture in a second panel that is placed in an overlapping arrangement with the first panel, an edge of the aperture may extend along at least a portion of an edge of the second aperture and may be aligned, in the direction of the thickness of the first and second panels, with the second aperture.

Claims

CLAIMS1. An article carrier for packaging at least one article, the article carrier comprising a plurality of primary panels for forming a top-engaging structure, the plurality of primary panels including a base panel and a floor keel panel disposed in face contacting arrangement with the base panel, the base panel comprising a pair of adjacent engaging devices each for receiving and engaging an article, each of the adjacent engaging devices including an engaging tab connected to the base panel for load-bearing engagement with an article received in each engaging device, the floor keel panel comprising a pair of positioning projections along its opposed side edges, the positioning projections being in abutment respectively with the engaging tabs of the adjacent engaging devices to facilitate positioning of the floor keel panel between the adjacent engaging devices.

2. An article carrier according to claim 1, wherein the positioning projections align the floor keel panel centrally between the adjacent engaging devices.

3. An article carrier according to claim 1 , wherein the opposed side edges are defined by hinged connections between the floor keel panel and a respective one of a pair of beam keel panels, the floor keel panel comprises a first width dimension defined between the opposed side edges, the positioning projections define a second width dimension, the second width dimension is greater than the first width dimension.

4. An article carrier according to claim 3, wherein the engaging tabs of the adjacent engaging devices are spaced apart from each other by a second distance, the second distance is greater than the first width dimension.

5. An article carrier according to claim 4, wherein the second distance may be approximately equal to the second width dimension.

6. An article carrier according to claim 4, wherein the engaging tab of each engaging device is connected to the base panel by a hinged connection, the hinged connections of the engaging tabs of the adjacent engaging devices are disposed apart by the second distance.

7. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a plurality of primary panels forming a tubular structure defining a tubular axis, the plurality of primary panels including an upper panel hingedly connected to a side panel, and a lower panel hingedly connected to the side panel, at least one of the upper and lower panels comprising at least one article-engaging device, wherein the upper panel has a first width extending perpendicularly to the tubular axis and the lower panel has a second width extending perpendicularly to the tubular axis and wherein the first width is greater than the second width.

8. A blank according to claim 7, wherein the first width is measured as a dimension from a first hinged connection between the upper panel the side panel to a side edge of the upper panel opposite to the first hinged connection, and wherein the second width is measured as a dimension from a second hinged connection between the side panel and the lower panel and to a side edge of the lower panel opposite to the second hinged connection.

9. A blank according to claim 7, wherein the lower panel is a single continuous panel having a pair of opposed side edges each extending parallel to the tubular axis, and wherein the second width extends between the opposed side edges of the lower panel.

10. A blank according to claim 7, wherein the plurality of primary panels including a base panel and at least one side panel connected to the base panel by a first hinged connection, the base panel comprising at least one engaging device for receiving and engaging an article, the at least one engaging device including an engaging tab connected to the base panel by a second hinged connection, wherein the engaging tab is formed in part from the base panel and in part from the at least one side panel, the engaging tab, when folded about the second hinged connection, defines an opening disposed astride the first hinged connection.11 . A blank according to claim 10, wherein the engaging tab has a first length dimension extending between the second hinged connection and a distal end of the engaging tab, the second hinged connection is disposed at a distance from the first hinged connection, and wherein the first length dimension is greater than the distance.

12. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a plurality of primary panels for forming a top-engaging structure, the plurality of primary panels including a base panel and a floor keel panel for positioning in face contacting arrangement with the base panel, the base panel comprising a pair of adjacent engaging devices each for receiving and engaging an article, each of the adjacent engaging devices including an engaging tab connected to the base panel for load-bearing engagement with an article received in each engaging device, the floor keel panel comprising a pair of positioning projections for in abutment respectively on the engaging tabs of the adjacent engaging devices to facilitate positioning of the floor keel panel between the adjacent engaging devices, the positioning projections being disposed along opposed side edges of the floor keel panel13. A blank according to claim 12, wherein the opposed side edges are defined by hinged connections between the floor keel panel and a respective one of beam keel panels, the floor keel panel comprises a first width dimension defined between the opposed side edges, the positioning projections define a second width dimension, the second width dimension is greater than the first width dimension.

14. A blank according to claim 13, wherein the engaging tabs of the adjacent engaging devices are spaced apart from each other by a second distance, the second distance is greater than the first width dimension.

15. A blank according to claim 14, wherein the second distance may be approximately equal to the second width dimension.

16. A blank according to claim 13 wherein the pair of positioning projections are formed from the respective one of beam keel panels.

17. A blank according to claim 13 wherein each of the hinged connections between the floor keel panel and the respective one of the beam keel panels is interrupted by a respective one of the positioning projections.

18. An article carrier according to claim 3 wherein the pair of positioning projections are formed from the respective one of pair of beam keel panels.

19. An article carrier according to claim 3 wherein each of the hinged connections between the floor keel panel and the respective one of pair of beam keel panels is interrupted by a respective one of the positioning projections.

20. An article carrier according to claim 3 wherein the beam keel panels are in engagement with the article received in the pair of adjacent engaging devices.

Images