Article carrier and blank therfor

Abstract

Aspects of the disclosure relate to a package, an article carrier (90; 190; 290) for packaging a plurality of articles (B) and to a blank (10; 110; 210; 310) for forming the article carrier (90; 190; 290). The article carrier (90; 190; 290) having a base panel (12; 112; 212; 312) defined by an outer boundary thereof and a plurality of wall panels (14, 16, 22, 24; 114, 116, 122, 124; 214, 216, 222, 224; 314, 316, 322, 324) hingedly connected along the outer boundary of the base panel (12; 112; 212; 312). The plurality of wall panels (14, 16, 22, 24; 114, 116, 122, 124; 214, 216, 222, 224; 314, 316, 322, 324) upstand from the base panel (12; 112; 212; 312). The base panel (12; 112; 212; 312) comprises at least one article receiving device (RT) for receiving at least one article (B). The plurality of wall panels (14, 16, 22, 24; 114, 116, 122, 124; 214, 216, 222, 224; 314, 316, 322, 324) comprises at least three wall panels (14, 16, 22, 24; 114, 116, 122, 124) each configured and positioned for load-bearing engagement with one article (B) received in the at least one article receiving device (RT).

Description

[0001] ARTICLE CARRIER AND BLANK THERFOR

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present invention relates to article carriers and to blanks for forming the same. More specifically, but not exclusively, the invention relates to article carriers of the top-engaging type having a tubular structure.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] In the field of packaging, it is known to provide cartons or article carriers 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 carton comprises a carrying handle sufficiently strong enough to bear the load of the carton and its contents.

[0006] It is desirable that the articles held within a carton are securely held and protected during transportation. It is also desirable that the articles within a carton can be readily accessed.

[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 packaging at least one article. The article carrier has a base panel defined by an outer boundary thereof and a plurality of wall panels hingedly connected along the outer boundary of the base panel. The plurality of wall panels upstand from the base panel. The base panel comprises at least one article receiving device for receiving at least one article. The plurality of wall panels comprises at least three wall panels each configured and positioned for load-bearing engagement with one article received in the at least one article receiving device.

[0010] Optionally, the outer boundary of the base panel comprises a pair of opposed side edges and a pair opposed end edges, and wherein the at least three wall panels comprise a pair of side panels and an end panel, each of the pair of side panels is hingedly connected to a respective one of the pair of opposed side edges and the end panel is hingedly connected to one of the pair opposed end edges. Optionally, the at least one article receiving device comprises an aperture in the base panel and at least one engaging tab hingedly connected along a perimeter of the aperture, the at least one engaging tab is configured and positioned for load-bearing engagement with an article received in the aperture.

[0011] Optionally, the at least three wall panels each comprises a load-bearing edge such that the load-bearing edges of the at least three wall panels are engageable with an upper end protrusion of one article received in the at least one article receiving device.

[0012] Optionally, the at least one article receiving device comprises a pair of article receiving devices each for receiving a respective one of a pair of articles, the plurality of wall panels is configured and arranged such that three or more wall panels are configured and positioned for load-bearing engagement with each of the pair of articles received in the pair of article receiving devices.

[0013] A second aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises a plurality of primary panels, including a first primary panel. The plurality of primary panels is connected together to form a tubular structure. The article carrier may comprise an end closure panel hingedly connected to the first primary panel to close, at least in part, an open end of the tubular structure. The end closure panel comprises a first load-bearing edge. The first primary panel comprises a first article receiving device for receiving an article. The first article receiving device is disposed next to the end closure panel and is spaced part therefrom. The plurality of primary panels further comprises a second primary panel having a second load bearing edge and a third primary panel comprising a third load-bearing edge. The first, second, and third load bearing edges are configured and positioned for load-bearing engagement with an article in the first article receiving device.

[0014] Optionally, the first primary panel comprises a pair of opposed side edges and a pair opposed end edges, and wherein the second and third primary panels are hingedly connected to the opposed side edges of the primary panel, the end closure panel is hingedly connected to one of the opposed end edges of the first primary panel.

[0015] Optionally, the first article receiving device comprises an aperture in the first primary panel and at least one engaging tab hingedly connected along a perimeter of the aperture, the at least one engaging tab being configured and positioned for load-bearing engagement with an article received in the aperture.

[0016] Optionally, the first, second and third load-bearing edges are engageable with an upper end protrusion of an article received in the first article receiving device.

[0017] Optionally, the article carrier further comprises a second end closure panel hingedly connected to the first primary panel to close the other of the opposed open ends of the tubular structure at least in part, the first primary panel further comprising a second article receiving device for receiving an article, the second and third primary panels and the first end closure panel are configured for load-bearing engagement with an article received in the first article receiving device, the second and third primary panels and the second end closure panel are configured for load-bearing engagement with an article received in the second article receiving device.

[0018] Optionally, the end closure panel is coupled to at least one anchor panel.

[0019] Optionally, the at least one anchor panel is coupled to the end closure panel by a web panel.

[0020] Optionally, the at least one anchor panel comprises a free edge, at least a first portion of the free edge is configured to reinforce one of the second and third load bearing edges.

[0021] Optionally, the free edge comprises a second portion configured to support the tubular structure; the second portion configured to engage a hinged connection between a pair of primary panels forming the tubular structure.

[0022] A third aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier for packaging at least one article. The blank comprises a base panel defined by an outer boundary thereof and a plurality of wall panels hingedly connected along the outer boundary of the base panel. The plurality of wall panels is configured to be upstanding from the base panel. The base panel comprises at least one article receiving device for receiving at least one article. The plurality of wall panels comprises at least three wall panels each configured and positioned for load-bearing engagement with one article received in the at least one article receiving device.

[0023] Optionally, the outer boundary of the base panel comprises a pair of opposed side edges and a pair opposed end edges, and wherein the at least three wall panels comprise a pair of side panels and an end panel, each of the pair of side panels is hingedly connected to a respective one of the pair of opposed side edges and the end panel is hingedly connected to one of the pair of opposed end edges.

[0024] Optionally, the at least one article receiving device comprises an aperture in the base panel and at least one engaging tab hingedly connected along a perimeter of the aperture, the at least one engaging tab being configured and positioned for load-bearing engagement with an article received in the aperture.

[0025] Optionally, the at least three wall panels each comprises a load-bearing edge such that the load-bearing edges of the at least three wall panels are engageable with an upper end protrusion of one article received in the at least one article receiving device.

[0026] Optionally, the at least one article receiving device comprises a pair of article receiving devices each for receiving an article, the at least three wall panels comprise a pair of side panels and a pair of end panels, the side panels and one of the end panels are configured and positioned for load-bearing engagement with an article received in one of the article receiving devices, the side panels and the other of the end panels are configured and positioned for load-bearing engagement with an article received in the other of the article receiving devices.

[0027] A fourth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier for packaging at least one article. The blank comprises a plurality of primary panels, including a first primary panel, connected together for forming a tubular structure. The blank may comprise an end closure panel hingedly connected to the first primary panel for closing, at least in part, an open end of the tubular structure. The end closure panel comprises a first load-bearing edge. The first primary panel comprises a first article receiving device for receiving at least one article. The first article receiving device being disposed next to the end closure device and is spaced apart therefrom. The plurality of primary panels further comprises a second primary panel having a second load bearing edge and a third primary panel comprising a third load-bearing edge. The first, second, and third load bearing edges are configured and positioned for load-bearing engagement with an article in the first article receiving device.

[0028] Optionally, the first primary panel comprises a pair of opposed side edges and a pair opposed end edges, and wherein the second and third primary panels are hingedly connected to the opposed side edges of the primary panel, the end closure panel is hingedly connected to one of the opposed end edges of the first primary panel.

[0029] Optionally, the first article receiving device comprises an aperture in the first primary panel and at least one engaging tab hingedly connected along a perimeter of the aperture, the at least one engaging tab being configured and positioned for load-bearing engagement with an article received in the aperture. A blank according to claim 16, wherein the first, second and third loadbearing edges are engageable with an upper end protrusion of an article received in the first article receiving device.

[0030] Optionally, the blank further comprises a second end closure panel hingedly connected to the first primary panel to close the other of the opposed open ends of the tubular structure at least in part, the first primary panel further comprising a second article receiving device for receiving an article, the second and third primary panels and the first end closure panel are configured for loadbearing engagement with an article received in the first article receiving device, the second and third primary panels and the second end closure panel are configured for load-bearing engagement with an article received in the second article receiving device.

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

[0032] 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.

[0033] 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] 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 an article carrier according to embodiments of the disclosure;

[0037] Figures 2 to 4 show stages of construction of an article carrier from the blank of Figure 1;

[0038] Figure 5 is a perspective view of an article carrier formed from the blank of Figure 1 ;

[0039] Figure 6 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming an article carrier according to another embodiment of the disclosure;

[0040] Figure 7 is a perspective view of an article carrier formed from the blank of Figure 6;

[0041] Figure 8 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming an article carrier according to a further embodiment of the disclosure;

[0042] Figure 9 shows a stage of construction of an article carrier from the blank of Figure 8;

[0043] Figure 10 is a perspective view of an article carrier formed from the blank of Figure 8; and

[0044] Figure 11 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming an article carrier according to yet another embodiment of the disclosure.

[0045] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0046] Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of the package, blanks and article 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 article 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.

[0047] Referring to Figure 1, there is shown a plan view of a blank 10 capable of forming a carton or carrier 90, as shown in Figures 2 to 5, for containing and carrying a group of primary products such as, but not limited to, bottles, hereinafter referred to as articles B, as shown in Figure 5. The blank 10 can be assembled to form a secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package.

[0048] Alternative blanks 110; 210; 310 are shown in Figures 6, 8, and 11 for forming alternative article carriers 190; 290 as shown in Figures 7 and 10.

[0049] 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 90; 190 for engaging and carrying articles B, such as primary product containers B. It is contemplated that the teachings of the invention can be applied to various product containers B, which may or may not be tapered and / or cylindrical. Other exemplary containers include bottles (for example metallic, glass or plastics bottles), cans (for example aluminum cans), tins, cups, pots, pouches, packets, and the like. The articles may comprise a recess or indentation in the upper and / or lower ends thereof. In some embodiments the articles may comprise a projection or flange extending outwardly, upwardly, or downwardly so as to provide a wall or engaging surface.

[0050] 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.

[0051] The packaging structures or cartons 90; 190; 290 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. An example of such a sheet material is tear-resistant NATRALOCK® paperboard made by WestRock Company. 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.

[0052] In the illustrated embodiment, the blanks 10; 110; 210; 310 are configured to form a cartons or carriers 90; 190; 290 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles B. In the illustrated embodiments, the arrangement is an m x n matrix or array, having two rows (m=2) and one column (n=1); in the illustrated embodiments, two rows of one article B are provided, and the articles B are 1.75L or 2.0L polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles.

[0053] 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 for example, but not limited to, fully enclosed cartons or basket carriers, the articles B may be bottles or cans.

[0054] Turning to Figure 1 , there is illustrated a blank 10 for forming an article carrier 90 (see Figures 2 to 5) according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The blank 10 comprises a plurality of main or primary panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 for forming a tubular structure including a base or engaging panel 12. The plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 may be arranged in a linear series hinged one to the next by corresponding fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19.

[0055] A first inner side panel 14 is hingedly connected to a first side of the engaging panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 13. A second side panel 16 is hingedly connected to a second, opposing, side of the engaging panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 15. A top panel 18 is hingedly connected to the second side panel 16 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 17. A first outer side panel 20 is hingedly connected to the top panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 19.

[0056] The blank 10 comprises an end closure structure for at least partially closing each end of the tubular structure formed by the plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20.

[0057] A first end of the tubular structure is partially closed by a first end structure comprising a first end flap 22 hingedly connected to a first end of the base panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 21. A first web panel 26A is hingedly connected to a first side of the first end flap 22 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 25A.

[0058] A first anchor panel 28A is hingedly connected to the first web panel 26A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 27A. The first anchor panel 28A is hingedly connected to the second side panel 16 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 29A.

[0059] An aperture A3 may be struck from, or defined in, one or both of the first web panel 26A and the first anchor panel 28A. The aperture A3 is disposed proximate the second side panel 16 and may interrupt the fold line 29A. The aperture A3 may interrupt one or both of the fold lines 27A, 25A. The aperture A3 may be considered to space apart fold line 29A and fold line 21.

[0060] A second web panel 26B is hingedly connected to a second side of the first end flap 22 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 25B.

[0061] A second anchor panel 28B is hingedly connected to the second web panel 26B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 27B. The second anchor panel 28B is hingedly connected to the first inner side panel 14 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 29B.

[0062] An aperture A3 may be struck from, or defined in, one or both of the second web panel 26B and the second anchor panel 28B. The aperture A3 is disposed proximate the first inner side panel 14 and may interrupt the fold line 29B. The aperture A3 may interrupt one or both of the fold lines 27B, 25B. The aperture A3 may be considered to space apart fold line 29B and fold line 21.

[0063] A second end of the tubular structure is partially closed by a second end structure comprising a second end flap 24 hingedly connected to a second end of the base panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 23.

[0064] A third web panel 26C is hingedly connected to a first side of the second end flap 24 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 25C.

[0065] A third anchor panel 28C is hingedly connected to the third web panel 26C by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 27C. The third anchor panel 28C is hingedly connected to the second side panel 16 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 29C.

[0066] An aperture A3 may be struck from, or defined in, one or both of the third web panel 26C and the third anchor panel 28C. The aperture A3 is disposed proximate the second side panel 16 and may interrupt the fold line 29C. The aperture A3 may interrupt one or both of the fold lines 27C, 25C. The aperture A3 may be considered to space apart fold line 29C and fold line 21.

[0067] A fourth web panel 26D is hingedly connected to a second side of the second end flap 24 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 25D. A fourth anchor panel 28D is hingedly connected to the fourth web panel 26D by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 27D. The fourth anchor panel 28D is hingedly connected to the first inner side panel 14 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 29D.

[0068] An aperture A3 may be struck from, or defined in, one or both of the fourth web panel 26D and the fourth anchor panel 28D. The aperture A3 is disposed proximate the first inner side panel 14 and may interrupt the fold line 29D. The aperture A3 may interrupt one or both of the fold lines 27D, 25D. The aperture A3 may be considered to space apart fold line 29D and fold line 21 .

[0069] Each of the first and second end flaps 22, 24 comprises a free end edge E2 opposing a hinged edge defined by a respective hinged connection to the base panel 12. Each free end edge E2 is configured to provide an engaging edge for engaging an article disposed adjacent to respective hinged connection.

[0070] The blank 10 comprises at least one article retention device or article engagement structure RT for engaging an upper end of an article B. The blank 10 illustrated in Figure 1 comprises plurality of article engagement structures RT, specifically, but not limited to, two article engagement structures RT.

[0071] Each article engagement structure RT comprises an article receiving opening struck from, or defined in, the base panel 12. The article receiving opening may be defined, in part, by an aperture A1 also referred to herein as a first article receiving aperture.

[0072] The article engagement structures RT each comprise a pair of engaging tabs 40 struck from the base panel 12, that is to say provided by material which would otherwise form the base panel 12.

[0073] The pair of engaging tabs 40 are disposed in opposition to each other and are separated, or separable, from each other. A portion of the aperture A1 may separate a first one of the pair of engaging tabs 40 from a second one of the pair of engaging tabs 40. The aperture A1 may be generally “T” shaped.

[0074] A first engaging tab 40 is hingedly connected to the base panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 41. The fold line 41 may be collinear or coincident with the fold line 13 hinging the first inner side panel 14 to the base panel 12.

[0075] A second engaging tab 40 is hingedly connected to the base panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 41. The fold line 41 may be collinear or coincident with the fold line 15 hinging the second side panel 16 to the base panel 12.

[0076] Each of the pair of engaging tabs 40 comprises a free end edge E1 ; the free end edge opposes a hinged edge defined by the fold line 41. The free end edges E1 provide engaging or support edges for suspending an article B therefrom. The first side panel 14 comprises a free end edge E3 for forming an engaging or support edge for suspending an article B therefrom. The free end edge E3 opposes a hinged edge of the first inner side panel 14 defined by fold line 13.

[0077] In the illustrated embodiment, the free end edge E3 of the of the first inner side panel 14 is interrupted by, or comprises, at least one recess or notch R. The illustrated embodiment comprises a plurality of recesses R, specifically, but not limited to, two recesses R. Each recess R defines a portion of the free end edge E3 which is configured to engage with a recess, flange, projection, or other suitable engaging surface provided by a respective article B said portion of the free end edge E3 forming the engaging or support edge of the first side panel 14.

[0078] A portion of an article B may be received in the recess R, as shown in Figure 3.

[0079] The blank 10 comprises at least one second article receiving aperture A2. The illustrated embodiment comprises a plurality of second article receiving apertures A2, specifically, but not limited to, two second article receiving apertures A2.

[0080] Each second article receiving aperture A2 is configured to receive an upper portion of a respective article B. The second article receiving apertures A2 are struck from, or defined in part, in the top panel 18. The second article receiving apertures A2 extend into first outer side panel 20 and into second side panel 16 so as to be struck therefrom, or defined in part therein.

[0081] Each second article receiving aperture A2 defines a first free edge E4 in the second side panel 16 for forming an engaging or support edge for suspending an article B therefrom.

[0082] Each second article receiving aperture A2 defines a second free edge E5 in the first outer side panel 20 for forming an engaging or support edge for suspending an article B therefrom. The second free edge E5 is disposed in opposition to the first free edge E4.

[0083] The cutline defining the second article receiving apertures A2 may comprise scalloped or serrated portions defining opposed side edge portions in the top panel 18.

[0084] The carton or article carrier 90 can be formed by a series of sequential folding operations in a straight-line machine so that the article carrier 90 may not be required to be rotated or inverted to complete its construction. The folding process is not limited to that described below and may be altered according to particular manufacturing requirements.

[0085] A plurality of articles B are brought together in a group, in the illustrated embodiment the group comprises two articles B. A blank 10 is lowered with respect to the group of articles B.

[0086] Each article engagement structure RT is aligned with a respective article B in the group of articles B. An upper portion of each article B is received in a respective article engagement structure RT passing through the article receiving opening. The engaging tabs 40 are folded out of the plane of the base panel 12. Each pair of opposed engaging tabs 40 engages a respective article B below a flange or other projection, such as, but not limited to, a cap, closure, or crown cork. The free end edges E1 engage with the article B.

[0087] The first end flap 22 is folded with respect to the base panel 12, about fold line 21; the first end flap 22 may be folded through an angle greater than 90° so as to define an acute angle with the base panel 12. The first and second web panels 26A, 26B together with the first and second anchor panels 28A, 26B are also folded with respect to the base panel 12; the first and second anchor panels 28A, 26B being folded about fold lines 29A, 29B, respectively.

[0088] The free end edge E2 of the first end flap 22 is brought into engagement with the flange or projection of an article B disposed at first end of the base panel 12.

[0089] The second end flap 24 is folded with respect to the base panel 12, about fold line 23, the second end flap 24 may be folded through an angle greater than 90° so as to define an acute angle with the base panel 12. The third and fourth web panels 26C, 26D together with the third and fourth anchor panels 28C, 26D are also folded with respect to the base panel 12; the third and fourth anchor panels 28C, 26D being folded about fold lines 29C, 29D, respectively.

[0090] The free end edge E2 of the second end flap 24 is brought into engagement with the flange or projection of an article B disposed at second end of the base panel 12, as shown in Figure 2.

[0091] The first side panel 14 is folded with respect to the base panel 12, about fold line 13; the first side panel 14 may be folded through an angle greater than 90° so as to define an acute angle with the base panel 12.

[0092] The free end edge E3 of the first side panel 14 is brought into engagement with the flange or projection of an article B.

[0093] In embodiments having recesses R in the free end edge E3 of the first side panel 14, an upper portion of each article B is received in a respective recess R and a portion of the free end edge E3 defined by the recess R engages the flange or projection of an article B, as shown in Figure 3.

[0094] A second side panel 16 is folded with respect to the base panel 12, about fold line 15; the second side panel 16 may be folded through an angle greater than 90° so as to define an acute angle with the base panel 12.

[0095] An upper portion of each article B is received in a respective one of the apertures A2, as shown in Figure 4. The first free edge E4 of each second article receiving aperture A2 engages the flange or projection of the article B received therein.

[0096] Glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to an outer surface of the first inner side panel 14 or to an inner surface of the first outer side panel 20. The top panel 18 is folded with respect to the base panel 12, about fold line 17, the first outer side panel 20 is folded with respect to the top panel 16, about fold line 19. The first outer side panel 20 is brought into face contacting relationship with the first inner side panel 14. The first outer side panel 20 is secured to the first inner side panel 14.

[0097] The second free edge E5 of each second article receiving aperture A2 engages the flange or projection of an article B in opposition to the first free edge E4. An upper portion of each article B extends or projects outwardly of the tubular structure formed by the plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20.

[0098] Referring now to Figures 6 to 11 , there is shown additional embodiments of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiments, like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix “100”; “200”; “300” to indicate that these features belong to the second, third, and fourth embodiments respectively. The alternative embodiments share many common features with the embodiment of Figures 1 to 5, therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 5 will be described in any greater detail.

[0099] Turning to Figure 6, there is illustrated a blank 110 for forming an article carrier 190 (see Figure 7) according to a second embodiment of the disclosure. The blank 110 comprises a plurality of main panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120 for forming a tubular structure including a base or engaging panel 112. The blank 110 is substantially similar in construction to the blank 10 of Figure 1 albeit the blank 110 comprises a handle structure H1 / H2.

[0100] The handle structure H1 / H2 takes the form of a first handle opening H1 struck from, or defined in, the first outer side panel 20 and a second handle opening H2 struck from, or defined in, the second side panel 16.

[0101] The first inner side panel 14 may comprise a cutaway in the form of an aperture or recess configured to be disposed in registry with the first handle opening H1 in the first outer side panel 20.

[0102] In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first and second handle openings H1, H2 is defined, at least in part, by a handle flap 160. The handle flap 160 is struck from, or defined in, one of the first outer side panel 20 and the second side panel 16 and is hingedly connected thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 161.

[0103] Optionally, each handle flap 160 comprises a pair of fold lines 163, 165 extending between a hinged edge of the handle flap 160 and an opposing free edge. The pair of fold lines 163, 165 are convergently arranged to form a “V” shape. The first inner side panel 14 comprises a receiver RC, the receiver RC takes the form of an opening defined, at least in part, by a pair of receiver tabs 170, 172. The pair of receiver tabs 170, 172 are struck from, or defined in, the first side panel 14 and are hingedly connected thereto by a respective hinged connection in the form of fold lines 171, 173. The pair of receiver tabs 170, 172 comprises a first receiver tab 170 and a second receiver tab 172 separated from each other by a cut line or severable line 175.

[0104] The receiver RC together with the handle flap 160 of the first handle opening H1 form a locking device H1 / RC, see Figure 7, for securing the first outer side panel 20 in face-to-face relationship with the first inner side panel 14. The handle flap 160 of the first handle opening H1 is pressed inwardly out of the plane of the first outer side panel 20 and is received in the receiver opening in the first inner side panel 14 formed by inwardly displacing the pair of receiver tabs 170, 172.

[0105] The handle flap 160 of the first handle opening H1 may pass the first receiver tab 170, this may inhibit, or prevent, unintentional egress of the handle flap 160 from the receiver RC.

[0106] The handle flap 160 may be larger in dimension than the receiver opening; portions of the handle flap 160 may engage an inner surface of the first inner side panel 14 adjacent the receiver opening to prevent, or inhibit, removal, or separation, of the handle flap 160 from the receiver RC.

[0107] The pair of fold lines 163, 165 may facilitate folding of the handle flap 160 to allow passage of the handle flap 160 through the receiver opening.

[0108] Figure 7 shows the position of second and fourth anchor panels 128B, 128D with respect to the first outer side panel 120. A side edge E7 of each of the second and fourth anchor panels 128B, 128D is configured to reinforce edges E5 of the first outer side panel 120. A portion the side edge E7 of each of the second and fourth anchor panels 128B, 128D engages a respective article B below the flange F or other protrusion of the article B. The first and third anchor panels 128A, 128C are similarly configured such that a side edge E6 of each of the first and third anchor panels 128A, 128C is configured to reinforce edges E4 of the second side panel 116.

[0109] It will be appreciated that the anchor panels 28A, 26B, 28C, 28D of the embodiment of Figures 1 to 5 are similarly configured to reinforce the first outer side panel 20 and the second side panel 16.

[0110] Turning to Figure 8, there is illustrated a blank 210 for forming an article carrier 290 (see Figure 10) according to a third embodiment of the disclosure. The blank 210 comprises a plurality of main panels 212, 214, 216, 218, 220 for forming a tubular structure including a base or engaging panel 212. The blank 210 is substantially similar in construction to the blank 110 of Figure 7 albeit the blank 210 comprises modified anchor panels 228A, 226B, 228C, 228D. The anchor panels 228A, 226B, 228C, 228D are shaped to provide support to the tubular structure. Extensions of the anchor panels 228A, 226B, 228C, 228D provide support edges E8, E9. The support edges E8, E9 are configured to align with a respective one of the fold lines 217, 219 hinging the top panel 218 to the first outer side panel 220 and the second side panel 216. The support edges E8 of the first and third anchor panels 228A, 228C engage or support the fold line 217. The support edges E9 of the second and fourth anchor panels 228B, 228D engage or support the fold line 219.

[0111] Turning to Figure 11 , there is illustrated a blank 310 for forming an article carrier (not shown) according to a fourth embodiment of the disclosure. The blank 310 comprises a plurality of main panels 312, 314, 316, 318, 320 for forming a tubular structure including a base or engaging panel 312. The blank 310 is substantially similar in construction to the blanks 110; 210 of Figures 7 and 8 albeit the blank 310 comprises modified first and third anchor panels 228A, 228C substantially similar in construction to those of the embodiment shown in Figure 8 and described herein, whereas the second and fourth anchor panels 226B.228D are substantially similar in construction to the second and fourth anchor panels 26B, 28D of the embodiment shown in Figure 7 and described herein.

[0112] The present disclosure provides an article carrier 90; 190; 290 and a blank 10; 110; 210; 310 for forming an article carrier. The article carrier 90; 190; 290 and the blank 10; 110; 210; 310 comprise at least one article receiving device RT for engaging a recess, flange, projection, or other suitable engaging surface provided by an article B.

[0113] The present disclosure also provides an article carrier 90; 190; 290 having a base panel 12; 112; 212; 312 defined by an outer boundary thereof and a plurality of wall panels 14, 16, 22, 24; 114, 116, 122, 124; 214, 216, 222, 224; 314, 316, 322, 324 hingedly connected along the outer boundary of the base panel 12; 112; 212; 312. The plurality of wall panels upstand from the base panel 12; 112; 212; 312. The base panel 12; 112; 212; 312 comprises at least one article receiving device RT for receiving at least one article B. The plurality of wall panels 14, 16, 22, 24; 114, 116, 122, 124; 214, 216, 222, 224; 314, 316, 322, 324 comprises at least three wall panels 14, 16, 22, 24; 114, 116, 122, 124; 214, 216, 222, 224; 314, 316, 322, 324 each configured and positioned for load-bearing engagement with one article B received in the at least one article receiving device RT.

[0114] The outer boundary of the base panel 12; 112; 212; 312 comprises a pair of opposed side edges and a pair of opposed end edges. The at least three wall panels 14, 16, 22, 24; 114, 116, 122, 124; 214, 216, 222, 224; 314, 316, 322, 324 comprises a pair of side panels 14, 16; 114, 116; 214, 216; 314, 316 and an end panel 22, 24; 122, 124; 222, 224; 322, 324. The side panels 14, 16; 114, 116; 214, 216; 314, 316 are hingedly connected to the side edges and the end panel 22, 24; 122, 124; 222, 224; 322, 324 is hingedly connected to one of the end edges.

[0115] The at least one article receiving device RT comprises an aperture A1 in the base panel 12; 112 and at least one engaging tab 40; 140 hingedly connected along a perimeter of the aperture A1. The at least one engaging tab 40; 140 is configured and positioned for load-bearing engagement with an article B received in the aperture A1.

[0116] The at least three wall panels 14, 16, 22, 24; 114, 116, 122, 124; 214, 216, 222, 224; 314, 316, 322, 324 each comprises a load-bearing edge E2, E3, E4. The load-bearing edges E2, E3, E4 of the at least three wall panels 14, 16, 22, 24; 114, 116, 122, 124; 214, 216, 222, 224; 314, 316, 322, 324 are engageable with an upper end protrusion, or flange, of one article B received in the at least one article receiving device RT.

[0117] The at least one article receiving device RT comprises a pair of article receiving devices RT each for receiving a respective one of a pair of articles B. The plurality of wall panels 14, 16, 22, 24; 114, 116, 122, 124; 214, 216, 222, 224; 314, 316, 322, 324 is configured and arranged such that at least three wall panels 14, 16, 22, 24; 114, 116, 122, 124; 214, 216, 222, 224; 314, 316, 322, 324 are configured and positioned for load-bearing engagement with each of the pair of articles B received in the pair of article receiving devices RT.

[0118] The present disclosure also provides an article carrier 90; 190; 290 comprising a plurality of primary panels 12, 16, 18, 20; 112, 116, 118, 120; 212, 216, 218, 220; 312, 316, 318, 320, including a first primary panel 12; 112; 22; 312. The plurality of primary panels 12, 16, 18, 20; 112, 116, 118, 120; 212, 216, 218, 220; 312, 316, 318, 320 are connected together to form a tubular structure. The article carrier 90; 190; 290 further comprises an end closure panel 22, 24; 122, 124; 222, 224; 322, 324 hingedly connected to the first primary panel 12; 112; 212; 312 to close an open end of the tubular structure at least in part. The end closure panel 22, 24; 122, 124; 222, 224; 322, 324 comprises a first load-bearing edge E2. The first primary panel 12; 112; 212; 312 comprises at least one article receiving device RT for receiving at least one article B. The plurality of primary panels 12, 16, 18, 20; 112, 116, 118, 120; 212, 216, 218, 220; 312, 316, 318, 320 comprises a second primary panel 16; 116; 216; 316 having a second load bearing edge E4 and a third primary panel 20; 120; 220; 320 comprising a third load-bearing edge E5. The first, second, and third load bearing edges E2, E4, E5 are configured and positioned for load-bearing engagement with one article B in the at least one article receiving device RT.

[0119] The end closure panel 22, 24; 122, 124; 222, 224; 322, 324 may be coupled to at least one anchor panel 28A, 28B, 28C, 28D; 128A, 128B, 128C, 128D; 228A, 228B, 228C, 228D; 328A, 328B, 328C, 328D. The at least one anchor panel 28A, 28B, 28C, 28D; 128A, 128B, 128C, 128D; 228A, 228B, 228C, 228D; 328A, 328B, 328C, 328D may be coupled to the end closure panel 22, 24; 122, 124; 222, 224; 322, 324 by a web panel 26A, 26B, 26C, 26D; 126A, 126B, 126C, 126D; 226A, 226B, 226C, 226D; 326A, 326B, 326C, 326D.

[0120] The at least one anchor panel 28A, 28B, 28C, 28D; 128A, 128B, 128C, 128D; 228A, 228B, 228C, 228D; 328A, 328B, 328C, 328D comprises a free edge, at least a first portion E6, E7 of the free edge may be configured to reinforce one of the second and third load bearing edges E4, E5.

[0121] The free edge may comprise a second portion E8, E9 configured to support the tubular structure; the second portion E8, E9 may be configured to engage a hinged connection between a pair of primary panels 12, 16, 18, 20; 112, 116, 118, 120; 212, 216, 218, 220; 312, 316, 318, 320 forming the tubular structure.

[0122] It can be appreciated that various changes may be made within the scope of the present invention. For example, the size and shape of the panels and apertures may be adjusted to accommodate articles of differing size or shape. The illustrated embodiments show cartons or blanks for forming an article carrier of the wraparound style; in other embodiments, the article carrier may take an alternative format or styles and may employ one or more of the features of the present disclosure. Each of the locking device H1 / RC and the carrying handle H1 / H2 is optional and may be omitted. When the locking device H1 / RC is not employed, the first inner side panel 14; 114; 214; 314 and first outer side panel 20; 120; 220; 320 may be secured together by suitable securing means such as adhesive or other mechanical fasteners such as but not limited to staples. When the locking device H1 / RC is employed, it is optional to adhesively secure the first inner side panel 14; 114; 214; 314 and first outer side panel 20; 120; 220; 320 to one another or to employ additional mechanical fasteners such as but not limited to staples.

[0123] 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.

[0124] 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 / linear 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 halfmoon shaped panel therebetween.

[0125] 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.

[0126] 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.

[0127] The phrases “in registry with” and “in vertical 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” or “in vertical 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. The aperture in the first panel when “in vertical registry with” the second aperture in the second panel may be disposed above or over the second aperture when the carton or carrier is in a normal or resting condition (or as shown in the illustrated embodiment), but it will be understood the carton or carrier is not limited to such an orientation.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . An article carrier for packaging at least one article, the article carrier having a base panel defined by an outer boundary thereof and a plurality of wall panels hingedly connected along the outer boundary of the base panel, the plurality of wall panels upstanding from the base panel, the base panel comprising at least one article receiving device for receiving at least one article, wherein the plurality of wall panels comprises at least three wall panels each configured and positioned for load-bearing engagement with one article received in the at least one article receiving device.2 An article carrier according to claim 1 , wherein the outer boundary of the base panel comprises a pair of opposed side edges and a pair opposed end edges, and wherein the at least three wall panels comprises a pair of side panels and an end panel, each of the pair of side panels is hingedly connected to a respective one of the pair of opposed side edges and the end panel is hingedly connected to one of the pair of opposed end edges.3 An article carrier according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one article receiving device comprises an aperture in the base panel and at least one engaging tab hingedly connected along a perimeter of the aperture, the at least one engaging tab being configured and positioned for load-bearing engagement with an article received in the aperture.4 An article carrier according to claim 1 , wherein the at least three wall panels each comprises a load-bearing edge such that the load-bearing edges of the at least three wall panels are engageable with an upper end protrusion of one article received in the at least one article receiving device.5 An article carrier according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one article receiving device comprises a pair of article receiving devices each for receiving an article, the at least three wall panels comprise a pair of side panels and a pair of end panels, the side panels and one of the end panels are configured for load-bearing engagement with an article received in one of the article receiving devices, the side panels and the other of the end panels are configured for load-bearing engagement with an article received in the other of the article receiving devices.6 An article carrier for packaging at least one article, the article carrier comprising a plurality of primary panels, including a first primary panel, the plurality of primary panels is connected together to form a tubular structure, the article carrier further comprising a first end closure panel hingedly connected to the first primary panel to close one of opposed open ends of the tubular structure at least in part, the end closure panel comprising a first load-bearing edge, the first primary panel comprising a first article receiving device for receiving an article, the first articlereceiving device being disposed next to the end closure panel and being spaced apart from the end closure panel, the plurality of primary panels further comprising a second primary panel having a second load bearing edge and a third primary panel comprising a third load-bearing edge, wherein the first, second, and third load bearing edges are configured and positioned for load-bearing engagement with an article in the first article receiving device. An article carrier according to claim 6, wherein the first primary panel comprises a pair of opposed side edges and a pair opposed end edges, and wherein the second and third primary panels are hingedly connected to the opposed side edges of the primary panel, the end closure panel is hingedly connected to one of the opposed end edges of the first primary panel. An article carrier according to claim 6, wherein the first article receiving device comprises an aperture in the first primary panel and at least one engaging tab hingedly connected along a perimeter of the aperture, the at least one engaging tab being configured and positioned for loadbearing engagement with an article received in the aperture. An article carrier according to claim 6, wherein the first, second and third load-bearing edges are engageable with an upper end protrusion of an article received in the first article receiving device. An article carrier according to claim 6, further comprising a second end closure panel hingedly connected to the first primary panel to close the other of the opposed open ends of the tubular structure at least in part, the first primary panel further comprising a second article receiving device for receiving an article, the second and third primary panels and the first end closure panel are configured for load-bearing engagement with an article received in the first article receiving device, the second and third primary panels and the second end closure panel are configured for load-bearing engagement with an article received in the second article receiving device. An article carrier according to claim 6, wherein the end closure panel is coupled to at least one anchor panel hingedly connected to one of the second and third primary panels. An article carrier according to claim 11 , wherein the at least one anchor panel is coupled to the end closure panel by a web panel. An article carrier according to claim 11 , wherein the at least one anchor panel comprises a free edge, at least a first portion of the free edge is configured to reinforce one of the second and third load bearing edges.

14. An article carrier according to claim 13, wherein the free edge comprises a second portion configured to support the tubular structure; the second portion configured to engage a hinged connection between a pair of primary panels forming the tubular structure.

15. A blank for forming an article carrier for packaging at least one article, the blank comprising a base panel defined by an outer boundary thereof and a plurality of wall panels hingedly connected along the outer boundary of the base panel such that the plurality of wall panels are foldable to be upstanding from the base panel, the base panel comprising at least one article receiving device for receiving at least one article, wherein the plurality of wall panels comprises at least three wall panels each configured and positioned for load-bearing engagement with one article received in the at least one article receiving device.

16. A blank according to claim 15, wherein the outer boundary of the base panel comprises a pair of opposed side edges and a pair opposed end edges, and wherein the at least three wall panels comprises a pair of side panels and an end panel, each of the pair of side panels is hingedly connected to a respective one of the pair of opposed side edges and the end panel is hingedly connected to one of the pair of opposed end edges.

17. A blank according to claim 15, wherein the at least one article receiving device comprises an aperture in the base panel and at least one engaging tab hingedly connected along a perimeter of the aperture, the at least one engaging tab being configured and positioned for load-bearing engagement with an article received in the aperture.

18. A blank according to claim 15, wherein the at least three wall panels each comprises a loadbearing edge such that the load-bearing edges of the at least three wall panels are engageable with an upper end protrusion of one article received in the at least one article receiving device.

19. A blank according to claim 15, wherein the at least one article receiving device comprises a pair of article receiving devices each for receiving an article, the at least three wall panels comprise a pair of side panels and a pair of end panels, the side panels and one of the end panels are configured and positioned for load-bearing engagement with an article received in one of the article receiving devices, the side panels and the other of the end panels are configured and positioned for load-bearing engagement with an article received in the other of the article receiving devices.

20. A blank for forming an article carrier for packaging at least one article, the blank comprising a plurality of primary panels, including a first primary panel, the plurality of primary panels is connected together for forming a tubular structure, the blank further comprising a first end closurepanel hingedly connected to the first primary panel for closing one of opposed open ends of the tubular structure at least in part, the end closure panel comprising a first load-bearing edge, the first primary panel comprising a first article receiving device for receiving an article, the first article receiving device being disposed next to the end closure panel and being spaced apart from the end closure panel, the plurality of primary panels further comprising a second primary panel having a second load bearing edge and a third primary panel comprising a third load-bearing edge, wherein the first, second, and third load bearing edges are configured and positioned for load-bearing engagement with an article in the first article receiving device.

21. A blank according to claim 20, wherein the first primary panel comprises a pair of opposed side edges and a pair opposed end edges, and wherein the second and third primary panels are hingedly connected to the opposed side edges of the primary panel, the end closure panel is hingedly connected to one of the opposed end edges of the first primary panel.

22. A blank according to claim 20, wherein the first article receiving device comprises an aperture in the first primary panel and at least one engaging tab hingedly connected along a perimeter of the aperture, the at least one engaging tab being configured and positioned for load-bearing engagement with an article received in the aperture. A blank according to claim 16, wherein the first, second and third load-bearing edges are engageable with an upper end protrusion of an article received in the first article receiving device.

23. A blank according to claim 20, further comprising a second end closure panel hingedly connected to the first primary panel to close the other of the opposed open ends of the tubular structure at least in part, the first primary panel further comprising a second article receiving device for receiving an article, the second and third primary panels and the first end closure panel are configured for load-bearing engagement with an article received in the first article receiving device, the second and third primary panels and the second end closure panel are configured for load-bearing engagement with an article received in the second article receiving device.

24. A blank according to claim 20, wherein the end closure panel is coupled to at least one anchor panel hingedly connected to one of the second and third primary panels.

25. A blank according to claim 24, wherein the at least one anchor panel is coupled to the end closure panel by a web panel.

26. A blank according to claim 24, wherein the at least one anchor panel comprises a free edge, at least a first portion of the free edge is configured to reinforce one of the second and third load bearing edges.

7. A blank according to claim 26, wherein the free edge comprises a second portion configured to support the tubular structure; the second portion configured to engage a hinged connection between a pair of primary panels for forming the tubular structure.

Images