Carton and blank therefor

Abstract

Aspects of the disclosure relate to a package, a carton (90) for packaging a plurality of articles (B), and to a blank (10) for forming the carton (90). The carton (90) comprising a plurality of panels which includes a pair of panels (12, 24) and a locking device for securing a first one of the pair of panels (12, 24) in a face-contacting arrangement with a second one of the pair of panels (12, 24). The locking device (L) comprises a first engaging element (M, M'; M1, M1'; M2, M2'; M3, M3'; M4; M5; M6) provided by one of the pair of panels (12, 24) for engaging with a second engaging element (F, F') provided by the other one of the pair of panels (12, 24). The first engaging elements (M, M'; M1, M1'; M2, M2'; M3, M3'; M4; M5; M6) comprise a male tab (M, M'; M1, M1'; M2, M2'; M3, M3'; M4; M5; M6) hingedly connected to said one of the pair of panels (12, 24). The male tab (M, M'; M1, M1'; M2, M2'; M3, M3'; M4; M5; M6) comprises a pair of opposed side edges (SE1, SE2), at least one of which is a toothed, edge. A first side edge (SE1) defines a first notional line (N1, N1B; N3, N3B; N5, N5B; N1', N1B'; N3', N3B'; N5', N5B'). A second side edge (SE2) defines a second notional line (N2, N2B; N4, N4B; N6, N6B; N2'; N4'; N6'). The first notional line (N3, N3B; N5, N5B; N3', N3B'; N5', N5B') and second notional line (N4, N4B; N6, N6B; N4'; N6') are divergently arranged with respect to each other. The at least one toothed edge defines a plurality of locking positions or locations so as to facilitate securement of differing proportions of the male tab (M, M'; M1, M1'; M2, M2'; M3, M3'; M4; M5; M6) received in the receiving opening.

Description

[0001] CARTON AND BLANK THEREFOR

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present invention relates to panel locking devices, to cartons and to blanks for forming the same. More specifically, but not exclusively, the invention relates to a carton of the wrap around style having a panel locking device for locking a pair of panels in an overlapping relationship.

[0004] BACKGROUND

[0005] In the field of packaging, it is known to provide article carriers or 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 an object of the present invention to provide a carton or carrier to enable two or more articles to be transported; in particular providing a package which forms a tight or close fit about a group of articles.

[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 disclosure provides a carton comprising a plurality of panels including a pair of panels and a locking device for securing a first one of the pair of panels in a face-contacting arrangement with a second one of the pair of panels. The locking device comprises a first engaging element provided by one of the pair of panels for engaging with a second engaging element provided by the other one of the pair of panels. The first engaging element comprises a male tab hingedly connected to said one of the pair of panels. The second engaging element comprises a receiving opening in the other one of the pair of panels for receiving at least a portion of the male tab. The male tab comprises a pair of opposed side edges, at least one of which is a toothed edge. A first side edge defines a first notional line and a second side edge defines a second notional line. The first notional line and second notional line are divergently arranged with respect to each other.

[0010] Optionally, the at least one toothed edge defines a plurality of locking positions or locations so as to facilitate securement of differing proportions of the male tab received in the receiving opening.

[0011] A second aspect of the disclosure provides a panel interlocking device for a carton comprising a female tab provided in a first panel and a male tab provided in a second panel, the female tab defines, at least in part a receiving opening in the first panel for receiving at least a portion of the male tab. The male tab comprises a pair of opposed side edges, at least one of which is a toothed edge. A first side edge defines a first notional line and a second side edge defines a second notional line. The first notional line and second notional line are divergently arranged with respect to each other. Optionally, the at least one toothed edge defines a plurality of locking positions or locations so as to facilitate securement of differing proportions of the male tab received in the receiving opening.

[0012] Optionally, the, or each, toothed edge defines a plurality of peaks and troughs, the apexes of the peaks define a notional peak line, the nadirs of the troughs define a notional base line, wherein the first notional line is defined by one of the notional peak line and the notional base line.

[0013] Optionally, the male tab comprises a toothless side edge defining a notional toothless line, the notional toothless line passes through at least opposite ends of the toothless side edge of the male tab.

[0014] Optionally, the toothless side edge is linear. Optionally, the toothless side edge is nonlinear.

[0015] Optionally, the toothless side edge is curvilinear or arcuate. Optionally, the toothless side edge is concave or convex in shape.

[0016] Optionally, the male tab has a distal end of a first width and a proximal end of a second width that is different from the first width.

[0017] Optionally, the first notional line and second notional line define an angle therebetween that is less than 5°.

[0018] Optionally, the first notional line and second notional line define an angle therebetween that is greater than 1 °.

[0019] A third aspect of the disclosure provides a carton comprising a plurality of panels which includes a pair of panels and a locking device for securing a first one of the pair of panels in a face-contacting arrangement with a second one of the pair of panels. The locking device comprises a first engaging element provided by one of the pair of panels for engaging with a second engaging element provided by the other one of the pair of panels. The first engaging element comprises a male tab hingedly connected to said one of the pair of panels. The second engaging element comprises a receiving opening in the other one of the pair of panels for receiving at least a portion of the male tab. The male tab comprises a pair of first and second opposed side edges. The first side edge is a toothed edge along which a series of first engaging teeth are formed, the first engaging teeth are configured according to the formula:

[0020] Ll / N < 3.1 where "LI” is the distance between the peak of the distalmost first engaging tooth and the peak of the proximalmost first engaging tooth, and “N" is the number of the first engaging teeth along the first side edge.

[0021] A fourth aspect of the disclosure provides a panel interlocking device for a carton comprising a male tab and female tab. The male tab comprises a pair of first and second opposed side edges. The first side edge is a toothed edge along which a series of first engaging teeth are formed, wherein the first engaging teeth are configured according to the formula:

[0022] Ll / N < 3.1 where "LI” is the distance between the peak of the distalmost first engaging tooth and the peak of the proximalmost first engaging tooth and “N" is the number of the first engaging teeth along the first side edge.

[0023] Optionally, the distance between the peak of the distalmost first engaging tooth and the peak of the proximalmost first engaging tooth is equal to or greater than 3.0mm (LI > 3.0mm).

[0024] Optionally, the first engaging teeth is configured according to the formula:

[0025] Ll / N > 1.5. Optionally, the distance between the peak of the distalmost first engaging tooth and the peak of the proximalmost first engaging tooth is less than or equal to 20mm (LI < 20.0mm).

[0026] Optionally, the second side edge is a toothless edge along which no engaging teeth are formed, and the distance between the peak of the distalmost first engaging tooth and the peak of the proximalmost first engaging tooth is less than or equal to 16mm (LI < 16.0mm).

[0027] Optionally, the series of first engaging teeth are disposed at a tooth pitch equal to or less than 4.2mm.

[0028] Optionally, the series of first engaging teeth are disposed at a tooth pitch equal to or less than 3.2mm.

[0029] Optionally, the second side edge is a toothed edge along which a series of second engaging teeth are formed, the first and second engaging teeth are configured according to one of the following formulae:

[0030] L2 / NT < 1.9 or Ll / NT < 1.9 where "LI” or "L2” is the distance between the peak of the distalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth and the peak of the proximalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth, and "NT" is the total number of the first and second engaging teeth provided on the male tab.

[0031] Optionally, the second teeth are offset with respect to the first teeth.

[0032] Optionally, the distance between the peak of the distalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth and the peak of the proximalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth is equal to or greater than 4.5mm (LI > 4.5mm) or (L2 > 4.5mm).

[0033] Optionally, the ratio of the distance between the peak of the distalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth and the peak of the proximalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth to the total number of the first and second engaging teeth is less than or equal to 1.1 , the first and second engaging teeth are configured according to one of the following the formulae:

[0034] Ll / NT > 1.1 or L2 / NT > 1.1.

[0035] Optionally, the series of second engaging teeth are disposed at a tooth pitch equal to or less than 4.2mm. Optionally, the series of second engaging teeth are disposed at a tooth pitch equal to or less than 3.2mm.

[0036] A fifth aspect of the disclosure provides a carton comprising a plurality of panels which includes a pair of panels and a locking device for securing a first one of the pair of panels in a face-contacting arrangement with a second one of the pair of panels. The locking device comprises a first engaging element provided by one of the pair of panels for engaging with a second engaging element provided by the other one of the pair of panels. The first engaging element comprises a male tab hingedly connected to said one of the pair of panels. The second engaging element comprises a receiving opening in the other one of the pair of panels for receiving at least a portion of the male tab. The male tab comprises a pair of first and second opposed side edges. The first side edge is a toothed edge along which a series of first engaging teeth are formed and the second side edge is a toothed edge along which a series of second engaging teeth are formed. The first and second engaging teeth are configured according to one of the following formulae:

[0037] L2 / NT < 1.9 or Ll / NT < 1.9 where “LI" or “L2" is the distance between the peak of the distalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth and the peak of the proximalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth, and “NT" is the total number of the first and second engaging teeth provided on the male tab.

[0038] A sixth aspect of the disclosure provides a panel interlocking device for a carton comprising a male tab and female tab. The male tab comprises a pair of first and second opposed side edges. The first side edge is a toothed edge along which a series of first engaging teeth are formed and the second side edge is a toothed edge along which a series of second engaging teeth are formed. The first and second engaging teeth are configured according to one of the following formulae:

[0039] L2 / NT < 1.9 or Ll / NT < 1.9 where "LI” or "L2” is the distance between the peak of the distalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth and the peak of the proximalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth, and “NT" is the total number of the first and second engaging teeth provided on the male tab.

[0040] Optionally, the second teeth are offset with respect to the first teeth.

[0041] Optionally, the distance between the peak of the distalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth and the peak of the proximalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth is equal to or greater than 4.5mm (LI > 4.5mm) or (L2 > 4.5mm).

[0042] Optionally, the ratio of the distance between the peak of the distalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth and the peak of the proximalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth to the total number of the first and second engaging teeth is less than or equal to 1.1, the first and second engaging teeth are configured according to one of the following the formulae:

[0043] Ll / NT > 1.1 or L2 / NT > 1.1.

[0044] Optionally, the series of first engaging teeth are disposed at a tooth pitch equal to or less than 4.2mm.

[0045] Optionally, the series of first engaging teeth are disposed at a tooth pitch equal to or less than 3.2mm.

[0046] Optionally, the series of second engaging teeth are disposed at a tooth pitch equal to or less than 4.2mm.

[0047] Optionally, the series of second engaging teeth are disposed at a tooth pitch equal to or less than 3.2mm.

[0048] A seventh aspect of the disclosure provides a blank for forming a carton comprising a plurality of panels including a pair of panels and a panel locking device as described in the foregoing paragraphs.

[0049] Further features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the specific embodiments illustrated in the drawings and discussed below.

[0050] 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.

[0051] 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.

[0052] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0053] Embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0054] Figure 1 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming an article carrier according to a first embodiment of the present disclosure;

[0055] Figure 2 is an enlarged plan view of portions of the blank of Figure 1 ;

[0056] Figure 3 is a perspective view from above of an article carrier formed from the blank of Figure 1 loaded with articles to form a package;

[0057] Figure 4A is a perspective view of an internal portion of the article carrier of Figure 5 showing a first panel locking device in a first condition;

[0058] Figure 4B is a perspective view of an internal portion of the article carrier of Figure 5 showing a first panel locking device in a second condition;

[0059] Figure 4A is a perspective view of an internal portion of the article carrier of Figure 5 showing a second panel locking device in a first condition;

[0060] Figure 4B is a perspective view of an internal portion of the article carrier of Figure 5 showing a second panel locking device in a second condition;

[0061] Figures 6 and 7 are plan views from above of a first element of the first panel locking device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure; and

[0062] Figure 8 is a plan view from above of a first element of the second panel locking device according to various embodiments of the present disclosure.

[0063] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0064] Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of a panel locking device, 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 panel locking devices, 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 minimised 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.

[0065] 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 Figure 3. The carton or carrier 90 is configured for carrying a group of primary products such as, but not limited to, beverage cans, hereinafter referred to as articles B. The blank 10 forms a secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package.

[0066] 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 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. Other exemplary containers include bottles (for example metallic, glass or plastics bottles), cans (for example aluminium cans), tins, pouches, packets and the like.

[0067] The blank 10 is 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 recognised that one or other numbers of blanks may be employed, where suitable, for example, to provide the carrier structure described in more detail below.

[0068] The packaging structure or carton 90 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.

[0069] In the illustrated embodiments, the blank 10 is configured to form a carton or carrier 90 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 three columns (n = 3); in the illustrated embodiments, two rows of three articles B, or three columns of two articles B, are provided and the articles B may be 500mL beverage cans. Alternatively, the blank 10 can be configured to form a carrier 90 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 wrap-around carriers, the articles B may be cups, pouches, pots or cans.

[0070] Turning to Figure 1 , there is illustrated a blank 10 for forming carton 90 (see Figure 3) according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The blank 10 comprises a plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 16a, 18a, 18, 18b, 20a, 20, 22, 24 arranged in a linear series and hinged one to the next by a respective fold line 13, 15, 17, 17a, 19, 21 , 23, 23a, 25, 27. The plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 16a, 18a, 18, 18b, 20a, 20, 22, 24 form a tubular structure having an interior chamber for receiving articles B. The plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 16a, 18a, 18, 18b, 20a, 20, 22, 24 includes a first base panel 12. An optional first lower corner or bevel panel 14 is hingedly connected to the base panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 13. A first side panel 16 is hingedly connected to the first bevel panel 14 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 15. An optional first upper corner or bevel panel 16a is hingedly connected to the first side panel 16 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 17. A top panel 18 is hingedly connected to the first upper corner or bevel panel 16a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 19. Optionally, the top panel 18 is hingedly connected to the first upper corner or bevel panel 16a by a first marginal top panel 18a, the first marginal top panel 18a is hingedly connected to the first upper corner or bevel panel 16a by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 19 and is hingedly connected to the top panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 19a.

[0071] An optional second upper corner or bevel panel 20a is hingedly connected to the top panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 21. Optionally, the second upper corner or bevel panel 20a is hingedly connected to the top panel 18 by a second marginal top panel 18b, the second marginal top panel 18b is hingedly connected to the second upper corner or bevel panel 20a by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 21 and is hingedly connected to the top panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 21 a.

[0072] A second side panel 20 is hingedly connected to the second upper corner or bevel panel 20a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 23. An optional second lower corner or bevel panel 22 is hingedly connected to the second side panel 20 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 25. A second base panel 24 is hingedly connected to the second bevel panel 22 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 27.

[0073] The first lower bevel panel 14 may be considered to be part of the first side panel 16 or part of the first base panel 12. The second lower bevel panel 22 may be considered to be part of the second side panel 20 or part of the second base panel 24.

[0074] The first upper bevel panel 16a may be considered to be part of the first side panel 16 or part of the top panel 18. The second upper bevel panel 20a may be considered to be part of the second side panel 20 or part of the top panel 18.

[0075] In some embodiments, any of the upper and lower bevel panels 16a, 20a, 14, 22 may be omitted, the first and second base panels 12, 24 and or top panel 18 may be hingedly connected directly to a respective one of the first and second side panels 16, 24. Similarly, the first and second marginal top panels 18a, 18b may be omitted in alternative embodiments.

[0076] The blank 10 may comprise one or more panels 26a, 28a, 30a, 32a, 34a, 36a, 38a, 40a, 42a, 44a, 26b, 28b, 30b, 32b, 34b, 36b, 38b, 40b, 42b, 44b for at least partially closing ends of the tubular structure so as to retain articles B within the assembled carton 90.

[0077] In the illustrated embodiment the blank 10 comprises a plurality of end closure panels 26a, 28a, 30a, 32a, 34a, 36a, 38a, 40a, 42a, 44a, 26b, 28b, 30b, 32b, 34b, 36b, 38b, 40b, 42b, 44b for closing ends of the tubular structure. The plurality of end closure panels 26a, 28a, 30a, 32a, 34a, 36a, 38a, 40a, 42a, 44a, 26b, 28b, 30b, 32b, 34b, 36b, 38b, 40b, 42b, 44b comprises a first group of end closure panels 26a, 28a, 30a, 32a, 34a, 36a, 38a, 40a, 42a, 44a for closing, at least in part, a first end of the tubular structure. The plurality of end closure panels 26a, 28a, 30a, 32a, 34a, 36a, 38a, 40a, 42a, 44a, 26b, 28b, 30b, 32b, 34b, 36b, 38b, 40b, 42b, 44b comprises a second group of end closure panels 26b, 28b, 30b, 32b, 34b, 36b, 38b, 40b, 42b, 44b for closing, at least in part, a second end of the tubular structure. The first group of end closure panels 26a, 28a, 30a, 32a, 34a, 36a, 38a, 40a, 42a, 44a comprises a first anchor panel 30a hingedly connected to a first end of the first side panel 16 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 31 a.

[0078] The first anchor panel 30a is coupled to the first base panel 12 by a first pair of web panels 26a, 28a. A first web panel 26a is hingedly connected to the first base panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 25a. A second web panel 28a is hingedly connected to the first web panel 26a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 27a. The second web panel 28a is hingedly connected to the first anchor panel 30a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 29a. The second web panel 28a may be defined in part by a cutaway in the form of first cutline C1 a extending between a free end edge and the fold line 29a. The second web panel 28a may be separated or spaced apart from the first lower bevel panel 14 and / or the first side panel 16 by an aperture A3.

[0079] The first anchor panel 30a is coupled to the top panel 18 (optionally, to the first marginal top panel 18a) by a second pair of web panels 32a, 34a. A third web panel 32a is hingedly connected to the first anchor panel 30a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 33a. A cutaway in the form of a first recess R1 a may be struck in part from the third web panel 32a, the fold line 33a may extend from the first recess R1 a. The second web panel 28a is hingedly connected to the first anchor panel 30a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 29a. A fourth web panel 34a is hingedly connected to the third web panel 32a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 35a. The fourth web panel 34a is hingedly connected to the top panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 37a. The third web panel 32a may be separated or spaced apart from the first upper bevel panel 16a and / or the first side panel 16 by an aperture A4.

[0080] A second anchor panel 40a is hingedly connected to a first end of the second side panel 20 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 45a.

[0081] The second anchor panel 40a is coupled to the top panel 18 (optionally, to the second marginal top panel 18b) by a third pair of web panels 36a, 38a. A fifth web panel 36a is hingedly connected to the top panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 39a. A sixth web panel 38a is hingedly connected to the fifth web panel 36a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 41 a. The sixth web panel 38a is hingedly connected to the second anchor panel 40a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 43a. A cutaway in the form of a second recess R2a may be struck in part from the sixth web panel 38a, the fold line 43a may extend from the second recess R2a. The sixth web panel 38a may be separated or spaced apart from the second upper bevel panel 20a and / or the second side panel 20 by an aperture A4.

[0082] The second anchor panel 40a is coupled to the second base panel 24 by a fourth pair of web panels 42a, 44a. A seventh web panel 42a is hingedly connected to the second anchor panel 40a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 47a. The seventh web panel 42a may be defined in part by a cutaway in the form of a second cutline C2a extending between a free end edge and the fold line 47a. An eighth web panel 44a is hingedly connected to the seventh web panel 42a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 49a. The eighth web panel 44a is hingedly connected to the second base panel 24 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 51 a. The seventh web panel 42a may be separated or spaced apart from the second lower bevel panel 22 and / or the second side panel 20 by an aperture A3. The second group of end closure panels 26b, 28b, 30b, 32b, 34b, 36b, 38b, 40b, 42b, 44b comprises a third anchor panel 30b hingedly connected to a second end of the first side panel 16 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 31 b.

[0083] The third anchor panel 30b is coupled to the first base panel 12 by a fifth pair of web panels 26b, 28b. A ninth web panel 26b is hingedly connected to the first base panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 25b. A tenth web panel 28b is hingedly connected to the ninth web panel 26b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 27b. The tenth web panel 28b is hingedly connected to the third anchor panel 30b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 29b. The tenth web panel 28b may be defined in part by a cutaway in the form of a third cutline C1 b extending between a free end edge and the fold line 29b. The tenth web panel 28b may be separated or spaced apart from the first lower bevel panel 14 and / or the first side panel 16 by an aperture A3.

[0084] The third anchor panel 30b is coupled to the top panel 18 (optionally, to the first marginal top panel 18a) by a sixth pair of web panels 32b, 34b. An eleventh web panel 32b is hingedly connected to the third anchor panel 30b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 33b. A cutaway in the form of a third recess R1 b may be struck in part from the eleventh web panel 32b, the fold line 33b may extend from the third recess R1 b. A twelfth web panel 34b is hingedly connected to the eleventh web panel 32b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 35b. The twelfth web panel 34b is hingedly connected to the top panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 37b. The eleventh web panel 32b may be separated or spaced apart from the first upper bevel panel 16a and / or the first side panel 16 by an aperture A4.

[0085] A fourth anchor panel 40b is hingedly connected to a second end of the second side panel 20 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 45b.

[0086] The fourth anchor panel 40b is coupled to the top panel 18 (optionally, to the second marginal top panel 18b) by a seventh pair of web panels 36b, 38b. A thirteenth web panel 36b is hingedly connected to the top panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 39b. A fourteenth web panel 38b is hingedly connected to the thirteenth web panel 36b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 41 b. The fourteenth web panel 38b is hingedly connected to the fourth anchor panel 40b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 43b. A cutaway in the form of a fourth recess R2b may be struck in part from the fourteenth web panel 38b, the fold line 43b may extend from the fourth recess R2b. The fourteenth web panel 38b may be separated or spaced apart from the second upper bevel panel 20a and / or the second side panel 20 by an aperture A4.

[0087] The fourth anchor panel 40b is coupled to the second base panel 24 by an eighth pair of web panels 42b, 44b. A fifteenth web panel 42b is hingedly connected to the fourth anchor panel 40b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 47b. The fifteenth web panel 42b may be defined in part by a cutaway in the form of a fourth cutline C2b extending between a free end edge and the fold line 47b. A sixteenth web panel 44b is hingedly connected to the fifteenth web panel 42b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 49b. The sixteenth web panel 44b is hingedly connected to the second base panel 24 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 51 b. The fifteenth web panel 42b may be separated or spaced apart from the second lower bevel panel 22 and / or the second side panel 20 by an aperture A3. The blank 10 comprises a handle structure H, the handle structure H comprises at least one handle opening defined in, or struck from, the top panel 18. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle structure H comprises a pair of handle openings. Each handle opening may be defined, at least in part, by a handle tab 60. The handle tabs 60 are struck from the top panel 18 and are hingedly connected thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 61. Each handle opening may be defined, at least in part, by a cutline 63 defined in the top panel 18. The cutline 63 extends between opposed ends of the fold line 61 and may be non-linear or arcuate in shape; in the illustrated embodiment the cut line 63 is substantially “U” shaped. The cutline 63 may comprise an extension or wing portion 63w extending from each end thereof. Each extension portion 63w extends from one of the opposed ends of the fold line 61 towards an adjacent side edge of the top panel 18. The extension portions 63w of the cutline 63 may be divergently arranged with respect to each other. The extension portions 63w of the cutline 63 may terminate in a ”J” or “C” shaped cut.

[0088] A handle strap may be defined in the top panel 18 between the pair of handle openings; the handle strap being provided by a portion of the top panel 18 disposed between the fold line 61 and the associated extension portions 63w of the cutline 63 of a first one of the handle openings and the fold line 61 and the associated extension portions 63w of the cutline 63 of a second one of the handle openings.

[0089] The top panel 18 comprises a pair of opposed free end edges E1 , E2. Each of pair of opposed free end edges E1 , E2 may be shaped or contoured and may comprise a “U” shaped recess. The recesses may lie upon a notional line longitudinally bisecting the top panel 18 and may be centred and / or symmetrical thereabout.

[0090] The blank 10 is foldable to form a package or carton 90 as illustrated in Figure 3. The first and second base panels 12, 24 are engageable with one another in an overlapping relationship to form a composite base wall 12 / 24 of the carton 90. The blank 10 may comprise a complementary locking mechanism for securing the second base panel 24 to the first base panel 12. The first base panel 12 may comprise at least one first part F, F' of the complementary locking mechanism. The second base panel 24 may comprise at least one second part M, M' of the complementary locking mechanism. In the illustrated embodiment, the first base panel 12 comprises a plurality of female tabs F defining openings in the first base panel 12. The second base panel 24 comprises a plurality of male tabs M, M'; and the openings in the first base panel 12 are configured to receive a respective one of the male tabs M, M'. The female tabs F, F' are arranged to be displaced out of the first base panel 12 to form the opening and to bear against the male tabs M, M' when received therein.

[0091] Optionally, the first and second base panels 12, 24 may comprise at least one first aperture A1 . In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first and second base panels 12, 24 comprises two first apertures A1 . Optionally, the first and second base panels 12, 24 may comprise at least one second aperture A2. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first and second base panels 12, 24 comprises one second aperture A2. The first and second apertures A1 , A2 may be employed to facilitate construction of the carton 90. A packaging machine component may engage with the first and second apertures A1 , A2 to enable the plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 16a, 18a, 18, 18b, 20a, 20, 22, 24 to be tightened about a group of articles B. The first and second apertures A1 , A2 may also be employed to facilitate alignment of the first and second base panels 12, 24 with respect to each other or to align the first part F, F' of the complementary locking mechanism with the second part M, M; of the complementary locking mechanism.

[0092] Referring to Figures 2 and 3, a pair of panels 12, 24 are adapted to be interlocked and are formed from paperboard or similar foldable sheet material. The pair of panels 12, 24 may, for example, be disposed at the opposite ends of the same carton blank 10. The pair of panels 12, 24 includes a first panel 12 and a second panel 24.

[0093] The first panel 12 may form an inner bottom panel of the carton 90 and the second panel 24 may form an outer bottom panel of the carton 90.

[0094] Referring in particular to Figure 2, first and second panels 12, 24 include a panel interlocking device L (see Figures 4A, 4B, 5A, and 5B) for securing together the panels 12, 24 in overlapping relationship. The panel interlocking device L comprises a locking tab M, M' (also referred to herein as male tab M, M') struck from, or defined within, second panel 24. The panel interlocking device L also comprises a retention tab F, F' (also referred to herein as female tab F, F') struck from, or defined within, first panel 12. The pair of panels 12, 24 are also referred to herein as mother panels as the male tab M, M' and female tab F, F' are struck from material that would otherwise form the first or second panels 12, 24 respectively.

[0095] The locking tab M, M' is defined, at least in part, by a cut line and is hingedly connected to the second panel 24 by hinged connection defined between terminal ends of the cut line. The locking tab M, M' comprises a hinged end edge HEE (also referred to herein as a proximal end of the locking tab M, M') and a free end edge FEE (also referred to herein as a distal end of the locking tab M, M'), opposing the hinged end edge HEE.

[0096] The blank 10 may comprise at least one first locking tab M, also referred to as a full locking tab M; the illustrated embodiment comprises four full locking tabs M, the full locking tabs M may be arranged in pairs. A first one of the full locking tabs M of each pair may be configured and arranged to be a mirror image of a second one of the full locking tabs M of said pair of full locking tabs M.

[0097] Each full locking tab M comprises a first side edge SE1 and a second side edge SE2, the second side edge SE2 opposing the first side edge SE1 .

[0098] At least a portion of the first and second side edges SE1 , SE2 is wavy, or undulating, in shape. In some embodiments, at least one of the first and second side edges SE1 , SE2 may be wavy, or undulating, in shape along its entire length. In some embodiments, at least one of the first and second side edges SE1 , SE2 may be wavy, or undulating, in shape along only a portion of their entire length.

[0099] The wavy, or undulating portion of the first and second side edges SE1 , SE2 may approximate a sinusoidal wave or triangle wave. In the illustrated embodiment, the wavy, or undulating portion of the first and second side edges SE1 , SE2 approximates a triangle wave having rounded, or fileted, peaks and troughs. In other embodiments, the wavy, or undulating portion of the first and second side edges SE1 , SE2 may approximate alternative waveforms such as, but not limited to, a sawtooth wave.

[0100] In the illustrated embodiment, the first side edge SE1 is wavy, or undulating, in shape along its entire length and the second side edge SE2 is wavy, or undulating, in shape along a portion of its entire length; that is to say second side edge SE2 is not continuously wavy, or undulating, in shape along its entire length and comprises a section which interrupts the waveform, the interruption in the waveform may be a linear section or a non-linear section such as, but not limited to, an arcuate section. In other embodiments, both side edges SE1 , SE2 may be wavy, or undulating, in shape along their entire length. In still other embodiments, both side edges SE1 , SE2 may be wavy, or undulating, in shape along only a portion of their entire length.

[0101] At least one of the first and second side edges SE1 , SE2 may comprises at least one linear portion L extending generally longitudinally of the full locking tab M, the linear portion L may be substantially perpendicular to the hinged connection between the full locking tab M and the mother panel 24. In some embodiments, the linear portion L may be obliquely oriented with respect to the hinged connection between the full locking tab M and the mother panel 24, see Figures 6 and 7. The at least one linear portion L may be at a proximal end or distal end of the side edge SE1 , SE2; the proximal end being at or adjacent to the hinged connection between the full locking tab M and the mother panel 24 and the distal end being at or adjacent to the free end edge of the full locking tab M.

[0102] In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 2, the second side edge SE2 comprises two linear portions L, a first linear portion L is disposed at, adjacent, or proximate to, a proximal end of the full locking tab M and a second linear portion L is disposed at, adjacent, or proximate to, a distal end of the full locking tab M.

[0103] The wavy, or undulating portion of the first and second side edges SE1 , SE2 define peaks P and troughs T, the peaks define projections or lobes extending outwardly from the side edge of the full locking tab M and the troughs T define recesses in the side edge of the full locking tab M.

[0104] In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 2, the first side edge SE1 comprises five peaks P and four troughs T, whereas the second side edge SE2 comprises four peaks P and three troughs T.

[0105] The peaks P of one of the first and second side edges SE1 , SE2 may be offset with respect to the peaks P of the other one of the first and second side edges SE1 , SE2.

[0106] The peaks P of one of the first and second side edges SE1 , SE2 may be substantially aligned with the troughs T of the other one of the first and second side edges SE1 , SE2.

[0107] In the illustrated embodiments the pitch or period A (distance between two adjacent identical points on the waveform) of the wavy, or undulating, first side edge SE1 is the same as the pitch or period A of the wavy, or undulating, second side edge SE2, where the pitch or period A is defined between a first peak P, or trough T, and a second adjacent peak P, or trough T. In other embodiments, the pitch or period of the wavy, or undulating, first side edge SE1 may comprise a first distance and the pitch or period A of the wavy, or undulating, second side edge SE2 may comprise a second distance, the second distance being different to the first distance, greater or less than the first distance.

[0108] Similarly, the frequency or the pitch (or period) A of the wavy, or undulating, side edges SE1, SE2 is the same along the length of the edge SE1 , SE2. In other embodiments, the frequency or the pitch (or period) A of the wavy, or undulating, side edges SE1 , SE2 may change along the length of the edge SE1 , SE2, the frequency or the pitch, (or period) A may increase or decrease towards the free end edge FEE of the full locking tab M.

[0109] The blank 10 may comprise at least one second locking tab M', also referred to as a half or partial locking tab M'; the illustrated embodiment comprises two partial locking tabs M'. A first one of the partial locking tabs M' may be configured and arranged to be a mirror image of a second one of the partial locking tabs M'. Each partial locking tab M' may be disposed adjacent or proximate to an end edge E1 , E2 of the mother panel 24.

[0110] Each partial locking tab M' comprises a first side edge and a second side edge, the second side edge opposes the first side edge.

[0111] At least a portion of the first side edge is wavy, or undulating, in shape. In some embodiments, at least one of the first side edge may be wavy, or undulating, in shape along its entire length. In some embodiments, at least one of the first side edge may be wavy, or undulating, in shape along only a portion of its entire length.

[0112] The wavy, or undulating portion of the first side edge may approximate a sinusoidal wave or triangle wave. In the illustrated embodiment, the wavy, or undulating portion of the first side edge approximates a triangle wave having rounded, or fileted, peaks and troughs. In other embodiments, the wavy, or undulating portion of the first side edge may approximate alternative waveforms such as, but not limited to, a sawtooth wave.

[0113] The second side edge of each partial locking tab M' is non-wavelike in shape, the second side edge of each partial locking tab M' may comprise a linear portion as shown in the illustrated embodiments. The linear second side edge of each partial locking tab M' may be substantially perpendicular to the hinged connection between the partial locking tab M' and the mother panel 24. In some embodiments, the linear second side edge of each partial locking tab M' may be obliquely oriented with respect to the hinged connection between the full locking tab M and the mother panel 24, see Figure 8. In still other embodiments, the second side edge of each partial locking tab M' may comprise a nonlinear shape such as, but not limited to, an arcuate shape for example a concavely curved shape.

[0114] In the illustrated embodiment, the second, non-wavelike, side edge of each partial locking tab M' is disposed outermost, that is to say in closer proximity to an end edge E1 , E2 of the mother panel 24 than the first, wavy, or undulating, side edge of each partial locking tab M'.

[0115] The free end edges FEE of the locking tabs M, M' are disposed in closer proximity to a side edge of the mother panel 24 (the side edge opposing a hinged edge, the hinged edge being defined by fold line 27) than the hinged end edges HEE of the locking tabs M, M'.

[0116] The retention tab F, F' is defined, at least in part, by a cut line and is hingedly connected to the first panel 12 by hinged connection defined between terminal ends of the cut line. The retention tab F, F' comprises a hinged end edge (also referred to herein as a proximal end of the retention tab F, F') and a free end edge (also referred to herein as a distal end of the retention tab F, F'), opposing the hinged end edge.

[0117] Each retention tab F, F' (also referred to herein as female tab F, F') is struck from, or defined within, the first panel 12. The retention tab F, F' defines, at least in part, a locking aperture, spaced from a side edge of the first panel 12, the side edge opposing a hinged edge, the hinged edge being defined by fold line 13.

[0118] The blank 10 comprises at least one first retention tab F, also referred to as a full retention tab F; the illustrated embodiment comprises four full retention tabs F, the full retention tabs F may be arranged in pairs.

[0119] Each full retention tab F comprises opposed side edges, a free end edge or distal end and a hinged end edge or proximal end. A first cut line defines the distal edge of the full retention tab F. The opposed side edges are defined by a pair of oppositely disposed cut lines extending from a respective one of the ends of the first cut line. The proximal end is defined in part by a third cut line. The third cutline is disposed between the pair of oppositely disposed cut lines and is spaced apart from each of the oppositely disposed cut lines so as to define hinge portions therebetween. The retention tab F is generally wider at the proximal end than at the distal end.

[0120] The third cutline is curvilinear or arcuate in shape, it is concavely curved when viewed from the side edge of the first panel 12. The third cutline may be curved in opposition to the first cutline.

[0121] The second cutline is curvilinear in shape, it is convexly curved when viewed from the side edge of the first panel 12.

[0122] Each of the pair of oppositely disposed cut lines is curvilinear in shape. Each of the pair of oppositely disposed cut lines is concavely curved when viewed from position outside of the full retention tab F.

[0123] The blank 10 comprises at least one second retention tab F', also referred to as a half or partial retention tab F'; the illustrated embodiment comprises two partial retention tabs F'. A first one of the partial retention tabs F' may be configured and arranged to be a mirror image of a second one of the partial retention tabs F'. Each partial retention tab F' may be disposed adjacent or proximate to an end edge E1 , E2 of the mother panel 12.

[0124] Each partial retention tab F' comprises first and second side edges, a free end edge or distal end and a hinged end edge or proximal end. A first cut line defines the distal edge of the partial retention tab F'. The first side edge is defined by a second cut line extending from a first one of the ends of the first cut line. The second side edge is defined by a third cut line extending from a second one of the ends of the first cut line. The proximal end is defined in part by a fourth cut line. The fourth cutline is disposed between the second and third cut lines and is spaced apart from each of the second and third cut lines so as to define hinge portions therebetween. The retention tab F is generally wider at the proximal end than at the distal end.

[0125] The second cutline of the partial retention tab F' may be linear in shape, it is concavely curved when viewed from the side edge of the first panel 12. The third cutline may be curved in opposition to the first cutline.

[0126] The second cutline is disposed outermost, that is to say in closer proximity to an end edge E1 , E2 of the mother panel 12 than the third cutline of each partial locking tab M'.

[0127] The third cutline is nonlinear in shape, the third cutline may be curvilinear or arcuate or, as in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1 , comprises two or more linear portions divergently arranged with respect to each other.

[0128] Turning to the construction of the carton 90 as illustrated in Figure 3 the carton 90 can be formed by a series of sequential folding operations in a straight-line machine so that the carton 90 is not 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.

[0129] The blank 10 is placed over a group of articles B. The blank 10 is at least partially folded about fold line 19 and fold line 21 to fold the first and second side panels 16, 20 with respect to the top panel 18.

[0130] The anchor panels 30a, 30b, 40a, 40b are folded into face-to-face relationship with the first and second side panel 16, 20 to which they are hinged. The fourth, fifth, twelfth, and thirteenth end closure panels 34a, 36a, 34b, 36b are folded with respect to the top panel 18, specifically with respect to the marginal top panel portion 18a, 18b, as a consequence to at least partially close the ends of the carton 90. Similarly, the first, eighth, ninth, and sixteenth end closure panels 34a, 36a, 34b, 36b are folded with respect to the one of the first and second base panels 12, 24 to which they are hinged to at least partially close lower ends of the carton 90.

[0131] The first and second lower bevel panels 14, 22 are folded with respect to the first and second side panel 16, 20 to which they are hinged. The first and second base panels 12, 24 are at least partially folded with respect to the first and second lower bevel panel 14, 22 to which they are hinged.

[0132] The first side panel 16 is folded with respect to top panel 18, about fold line 19, to bring the first side panel 16 into close proximity with a first side of a group of articles B. The second side panel 20 is folded, about fold line 21 , to bring the second side panel 20 into close proximity with a second, opposing, side of the group of articles B.

[0133] The first base panel 12 is folded with respect to the first bevel panel 14 about the base of a group of articles B to be brought in to face-contacting relationship with the bottom of the group of articles B.

[0134] The second base panel 24 is folded with respect to the second bevel panel 22 about the base of a group of articles B. The second base panel 24 is brought into face contacting relationship with the first base panel 12.

[0135] The second base panel 24 is secured to the first base panel 12. The male tabs M, M' of the panel interlocking device L are folded out of the plane of the second base panel 24 and are received in respective ones of the openings in the first base panel 12 provided by the female tabs F, F' of the panel interlocking device L, best shown in Figure 4A, 4B, 5A, and 5B.

[0136] Each of the male tabs M, M' of the panel interlocking device L comprises a plurality of locking positions, enabling the plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 16a, 18a, 18, 18b, 20a, 20, 22, 24 to be tightened as desired about the group of articles B. Figures 4A and 5A show the male tabs M, M' in one of the plurality of locking positions whereas Figures 4B and 5B show the male tabs M, M' in another one of the plurality of locking positions, in the condition shown in Figures 4A and 5A the male tabs M, M' are in a tighter configuration than the condition shown in Figures 4B and 5B; that is to say the first and second base panels 12, 24 are brought into a position in which they overlap with each other to a greater extent or degree in the condition shown Figures 4A and 5A than they do in the condition shown Figures 4B and 5B.

[0137] A greater proportion of the male tabs M, M' has passed through the openings in the first base panel 12 provided by the female tabs F, F' in the condition shown in Figures 4A and 5A than has passed through the openings in the first base panel 12 provided by the female tabs F, F' in the condition shown in Figures 4B and 5B.

[0138] Figures 6 to 8 show various alternative embodiments of the male tabs M, M'. Figure 6 shows a first alternative male tab M1, the first alternative male tab M1 is substantially similar in construction to the first full tab M shown in Figure 2, albeit the first alternative male tab M1 comprises a reduced number of locking positions compared to the male tab M shown in Figure 2, and therefore only differences from the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 5B will be described in any greater detail. The first side edge SE1 of the first alternative male tab M1 comprises four peaks P and three troughs T, whereas the second side edge SE2 comprises three peaks P and two troughs T. The peaks P of the first side edge SE1 of the first alternative male tab M1 define a first notional line N1 , whereas the peaks P of second side edge SE2 define a second notional line N2. The first and second notional lines N1 , N2 are substantially parallel to each other. The first notional line N1 is spaced apart from the second notional line N2 by a first distance d1 at the proximal end HEE of the first alternative male tab M1. The first notional line N1 is spaced apart from the second notional line N2 by a second distance d2 at the distal end FEE of the first alternative male tab M1 . The first distance d1 is substantially equal to the second distance d2.

[0139] Figure 6 shows a second alternative male tab M2, the second alternative male tab M2 is substantially similar in construction to the first alternative male tab M1 shown in Figure 6, albeit the second alternative male tab M2 is tapered in shape, and therefore only differences from the first alternative male tab M1 will be described in any greater detail. The peaks P of the first side edge SE1 of the second alternative male tab M2 define a third notional line N3, whereas the peaks P of second side edge SE2 define a fourth notional line N4. The third and fourth notional lines N3, N4 are divergently arranged with respect to each other. The third notional line N3 is spaced apart from the fourth notional line N4 by a third distance d3 at the proximal end HEE of the second alternative male tab M2. The third notional line N3 is spaced apart from the fourth notional line N4 by a fourth distance d4 at the distal end FEE of the second alternative male tab M2. The third distance d3 is less than the fourth distance d4. The second alternative male tab M2 is generally wider at the distal end FEE than at the proximal end HEE. The third distance d3 may equal to or less than the first distance d1 . The fourth distance d4 may equal to or greater than the second distance d2.

[0140] Figure 6 shows a third alternative male tab M3, the third alternative male tab M3 is substantially similar in construction to the first alternative male tab M1 shown in Figure 6, albeit the third alternative male tab M3 is tapered in shape, and therefore only differences from the first alternative male tab M1 will be described in any greater detail. The peaks P of the first side edge SE1 of the third alternative male tab M3 define a fifth notional line N5, whereas the peaks P of second side edge SE2 define a sixth notional line N6. The fifth and sixth notional lines N5, N6 are divergently arranged with respect to each other. The fifth notional line N5 is spaced apart from the sixth notional line N6 by a fifth distance d5 at the proximal end HEE of the third alternative male tab M3. The fifth notional line N5 is spaced apart from the sixth notional line N6 by a sixth distance d6 at the distal end FEE of the third alternative male tab M3. The fifth distance d5 is greater than the sixth distance d6. The third alternative male tab M3 is generally narrower at the distal end FEE than at the proximal end HEE. The fifth distance d5 may equal to or greater than the first distance d1 . The sixth distance d6 may equal to or less than the second distance d2.

[0141] Figure 7 shows a fourth alternative male tab M4, the fourth alternative male tab M4 is substantially similar in construction to the first full tab M shown in Figure 2, albeit the fourth alternative male tab M4 comprises a reduced number of locking positions compared to the male tab M shown in Figure 2, and therefore only differences from the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 5B will be described in any greater detail. The first side edge SE1 of the fourth alternative male tab M4 comprises four peaks P and three troughs T, whereas the second side edge SE2 comprises four peaks P and three troughs T. Each of the first and second side edges SE1 , SE2 comprises a linear portion L. The first side edge SE1 of the fourth alternative male tab M4 comprises a linear portion at the proximal end HEE of the fourth alternative male tab M4. The second side edge SE2 of the fourth alternative male tab M4 comprises a linear portion at the distal end FEE of the fourth alternative male tab M4. The peaks P of the first side edge SE1 of the fourth alternative male tab M4 define a first notional line N1 , whereas the peaks P of second side edge SE2 define a second notional line N2. The first and second notional lines N1 , N2 are substantially parallel to each other. The first notional line N1 is spaced apart from the second notional line N2 by a first distance d1 at the proximal end HEE of the first alternative male tab M1. The first notional line N1 is spaced apart from the second notional line N2 by a second distance d2 at the distal end FEE of the first alternative male tab M1 . The first distance d1 is substantially equal to the second distance d2.

[0142] Figure 7 shows a fifth alternative male tab M5, the fifth alternative male tab M5 is substantially similar in construction to the fourth alternative male tab M4 shown in Figure 7, albeit the fifth alternative male tab M5 is tapered in shape, and therefore only differences from the fourth alternative male tab M4 will be described in any greater detail. The peaks P of the first side edge SE1 of the fifth alternative male tab M5 define a third notional line N3, whereas the peaks P of second side edge SE2 define a fourth notional line N4. The third and fourth notional lines N3, N4 are divergently arranged with respect to each other. The third notional line N3 is spaced apart from the fourth notional line N4 by a third distance d3 at the proximal end HEE of the fifth alternative male tab M5. The third notional line N3 is spaced apart from the fourth notional line N4 by a fourth distance d4 at the distal end FEE of the fifth alternative male tab M5. The third distance d3 is less than the fourth distance d4. The fifth alternative male tab M5 is generally wider at the distal end FEE than at the proximal end HEE. The third distance d3 may equal to or less than the first distance d1 . The fourth distance d4 may equal to or greater than the second distance d2.

[0143] Figure 7 shows a sixth alternative male tab M6, the sixth alternative male tab M6 is substantially similar in construction to the fourth alternative male tab M4 shown in Figure 7, albeit the sixth alternative male tab M6 is tapered in shape, and therefore only differences from the fourth alternative male tab M4 will be described in any greater detail. The peaks P of the first side edge SE1 of the sixth alternative male tab M6 define a fifth notional line N5, whereas the peaks P of second side edge SE2 define a sixth notional line N6. The fifth and sixth notional lines N5, N6 are divergently arranged with respect to each other. The fifth notional line N5 is spaced apart from the sixth notional line N6 by a fifth distance d5 at the proximal end HEE of the sixth alternative male tab M6. The fifth notional line N5 is spaced apart from the sixth notional line N6 by a sixth distance d6 at the distal end FEE of the sixth alternative male tab M6. The fifth distance d5 is greater than the sixth distance d6. The sixth alternative male tab M6 is generally narrower at the distal end FEE than at the proximal end HEE. The fifth distance d5 may equal to or greater than the first distance d1 . The sixth distance d6 may equal to or less than the second distance d2.

[0144] Figure 8 shows an alternative partial male tab MT, the alternative partial male tab MT is substantially similar in construction to the first partial tab M shown in Figure 2, albeit the alternative partial male tab MT comprises a reduced number of locking positions compared to the male tab M shown in Figure 2, and therefore only differences from the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 5B will be described in any greater detail. The first side edge SE1 of the alternative partial male tab MT comprises four peaks P and three troughs T. The second side edge SE2 is optionally linear in shape. The peaks P of the first side edge SE1 of the alternative partial male tab MT define a first notional line NT, whereas the second side edge SE2 defines a second notional line N2'. The nadirs or bottoms of the troughs T of the alternative partial male tab MT define a notional base line N1 B'. The first and second notional lines NT, N2' are substantially parallel to each other. The notional base line N1 B' is substantially parallel to each of the first and second notional lines NT, N2'. The first notional line NT is spaced apart from the second notional line N2' by a first distance dT at the proximal end HEE of the alternative partial male tab MT. The first notional line NT is spaced apart from the second notional line N2' by a second distance d2' at the distal end FEE of the alternative partial male tab MT. The first distance dT is substantially equal to the second distance d2'.

[0145] Figure 8 shows a second alternative partial male tab M2', the second alternative partial male tab M2'is substantially similar in construction to the first alternative partial male tab MT shown in Figure 8, albeit the second alternative partial male tab M2' is tapered in shape, and therefore only differences from the first alternative partial male tab M1 ' will be described in any greater detail. The peaks P of the first side edge SE1 of the second alternative partial male tab M2' define a third notional line N3', whereas the second side edge SE2 defines a fourth notional line N4'. The nadirs or bottoms of the troughs T of the second alternative partial male tab M2' define a second notional base line N3B’. The second notional base line N3B’ is substantially parallel to the third notional line N3'. The third and fourth notional lines N3', N4' are divergently arranged with respect to each other. The third notional line N3' is spaced apart from the fourth notional line N4' by a third distance d3' at the proximal end HEE of the second alternative partial male tab M2'. The third notional line N3' is spaced apart from the fourth notional line N4 by a fourth distance d4' at the distal end FEE of the second alternative partial male tab M2'. The third distance d3' is less than the fourth distance d4'. The second alternative partial male tab M2' is generally wider at the distal end FEE than at the proximal end HEE. The third distance d3' may equal to or less than the first distance d T. The fourth distance d4' may equal to or greater than the second distance d2'.

[0146] Figure 8 shows a third alternative partial male tab M3', the third alternative partial male tab M3' is substantially similar in construction to the first alternative partial male tab MT shown in Figure 8, albeit the third alternative partial male tab M3' is tapered in shape, and therefore only differences from the first alternative partial male tab MT will be described in any greater detail. The peaks P of the first side edge SE1 of the third alternative partial male tab M3' define a fifth notional line N5', whereas the second side edge SE2 defines a sixth notional line N6'. The nadirs or bottoms of the troughs T of the third alternative partial male tab M3' define a third notional base line N5B'. The third notional base line N2B’ is substantially parallel to the fifth notional line N5'. The fifth and sixth notional lines N5', N6' are divergently arranged with respect to each other. The fifth notional line N5' is spaced apart from the sixth notional line N6' by a fifth distance d5' at the proximal end HEE of the third alternative partial male tab M3'. The fifth notional line N5' is spaced apart from the sixth notional line N6' by a sixth distance d6 ‘at the distal end FEE of the third alternative partial male tab M3'. The fifth distance d5' is greater than the sixth distance d6'. The third alternative partial male tab M3' is generally narrower at the distal end FEE than at the proximal end HEE. The fifth distance d5' may equal to or greater than the first distance d T . The sixth distance d6' may equal to or less than the second distance d2'.

[0147] The present disclosure provides a carton 90 and carton blank 10 comprising a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 16a, 18a, 18, 18b, 20a, 20, 22, 24 which includes a pair of panels 12, 24 and a locking device L for securing a first one of the pair of panels 12, 24 in a face-contacting arrangement with a second one of the pair of panels 12, 24. The locking device L comprises a first engaging element M, M'; M1 , MT; M2, M2'; M3, M3'; M4; M5; M6 provided by one of the pair of panels 12, 24 for engaging with a second engaging element F, F' provided by the other one of the pair of panels 12, 24. The first engaging elements M, M'; M1 , MT; M2, M2'; M3, M3'; M4; M5; M6 comprise a tab hingedly connected to said one of the pair of panels 12, 24. The present disclosure also provides a panel interlocking device L for a carton 90 comprising a female tab F, F' provided in a first panel 12 and a male tab M, M'; M1 , MT; M2, M2'; M3, M3'; M4; M5; M6 provided in a second panel. The female tab F, F' defining, at least in part a receiving opening in the first panel 12 for receiving at least a portion of the male tab M, M’; M1 , MT; M2, M2’; M3, M3’; M4; M5; M6. The male tab M, M’; M1 , MT; M2, M2’; M3, M3'; M4; M5; M6 comprises a pair of opposed side edges SE1 , SE2, at least one of which is a toothed, serrated, or undulating edge. A first side edge SE1 defines a first notional line N1 , N1 B; N3, N3B; N5, N5B; NT, N1 B'; N3', N3B'; N5', N5B'. A second side edge SE2 defines a second notional line N2, N2B; N4, N4B; N6, N6B; N2'; N4'; N6'. The first notional line N3, N3B; N5, N5B; N3', N3B'; N5', N5B' and second notional line N4, N4B; N6, N6B; N4'; N6' may be nonparallel, oblique, or divergently arranged, with respect to each other. The at least one toothed edge defines a plurality of locking positions or locations so as to facilitate securement of differing proportions of the male tab M, M'; M1 , MT; M2, M2'; M3, M3'; M4; M5; M6 received in the receiving opening.

[0148] The or each toothed edge defines a plurality of peaks P and troughs T, the apexes of the peaks P define a notional peak line N1 , N2; N3, N4; N5, N6; NT, N2'; N3', N4'; N5', N6'. The nadirs or bottoms of the troughs T define a notional base line N1 B, N2B; N3B, N4B; N5B, N6B; N 1 B', N2'; N3B', N4'; N5B', N6'. The first notional line N1, N1B; N3, N3B; N5, N5B; NT, N1B’; N3’, N3B’; N5’, N5B’ may be defined by one of the notional peak line N1, N2; N3, N4; N5, N6; NT, N2’; N3’, N4’; N5’, N6’ and the notional base line N1B, N2B; N3B, N4B; N5B, N6B; N1B’, N2’; N3B’, N4’; N5B’, N6’.

[0149] The toothless edge (if provided) defines a notional toothless line N2'; N4'; N6', the notional toothless line passes through at least opposite ends of the toothless side edge SE2 of the male tab M'; MT; M2'; M3'. The toothless edge may be linear, or nonlinear such as curvilinear or arcuate and may be concave or convex in shape.

[0150] The male tab M2, M2'; M3, M3'; M4; M5; M6 has a distal end of a first width d4; d6; d4'; d6' and a proximal end of a second width d3; d5; d3'; d5' that is different from the first width d4; d6; d4'; d6'.

[0151] The first notional line N3, N3B; N5, N5B; N3', N3B'; N5', N5B' and second notional line N4, N4B; N6, N6B; N4'; N6' define an angle therebetween that is less than 5° and optionally more than 1 °.

[0152] The present disclosure also provides a panel interlocking device L for a carton 90 comprising a male tab M, M'; M1 , MT; M2, M2’; M3, M3’; M4; M5; M6 and female tab F, F’. The male tab M, M’; M1 , MT; M2, M2’; M3, M3’; M4; M5; M6 comprises a pair of first and second opposed side edges SE1 , SE2. The first side edge SE1 is a toothed edge along which a series of first engaging teeth ET1 are formed. The first engaging teeth ET1 are configured according to the formula: Ll / N < 3.1 where "LI” is the distance between the peak P of the distalmost first engaging tooth ET1 and the peak P of the proximalmost first engaging tooth (see Figure 2), and "N" is the number of the first engaging teeth ET1 along the first side edge SET That is to say the ratio of the distance LI to the number N of the first engaging teeth ET1 is less than or equal to 3.1 .

[0153] The distance LI between the peak P of the distalmost first engaging tooth ET1 and the peak P of the proximalmost first engaging tooth may be equal to or greater than 3.0mm (LI > 3.0mm).

[0154] The first engaging teeth ET1 may be configured according to the formula: Ll / N > 1.5. That is to say the ratio of the distance LI to the number N of the first engaging teeth ET1 is less than or equal to 1.5. The distance LI between the peak P of the distalmost first engaging tooth ET1 and the peak P of the proximalmost first engaging tooth may be less than or equal to 20mm (LI < 20.0mm).

[0155] The second side edge SE2 may be a toothless edge along which no engaging teeth are formed, and the distance LI between the peak P of the distalmost first engaging tooth ET1 and the peak P of the proximalmost first engaging tooth may be less than or equal to 16mm (LI < 16.0mm).

[0156] The first engaging teeth ET1 may be disposed at a tooth pitch or period A (distance between two identical points on two adjacent first engaging teeth ET1 teeth, see Figures 2, 6, 7, and 8) equal to or less than 4.2mm, and may be equal to or less than 3.2mm.

[0157] The second side edge SE2 may be a toothed edge along which a series of second engaging teeth ET2 are formed. The first and second engaging teeth ET1 , ET2 are configured according to one of the following formulae:

[0158] L2 / NT < 1.9 or Ll / NT < 1.9 where "LI” (see Figure 2) or "L2” (see Figure 7) is the distance between the peak P of the distalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth ET1, ET2 and the peak P of the proximalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth (see Figure 7), and “NT" is the total number of the first and second engaging teeth ET1, ET2 provided on the male tab M, M’; M1 , MT; M2, M2’; M3, M3’; M4; M5; M6.

[0159] The second teeth ET2 are offset from, or staggered with respect to, the first teeth ET1.

[0160] The distance LI, L2 between the peak P of the distalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth ET1 , ET2 and the peak P of the proximalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth may be equal to or greater than 4.5mm (LI > 4.5mm) or (L2 > 4.5mm).

[0161] The ratio of the distance LI, L2 to the total number NT of the first and second engaging teeth ET1 , ET2 may be less than or equal to 1.1 , that is to say the first and second engaging teeth ET1, ET2 may be configured according to one of the following the formulae:

[0162] Ll / NT > 1.1 or L2 / NT > 1.1.

[0163] The second engaging teeth ET2 may be disposed at a tooth pitch equal to or less than 4.2mm.

[0164] The present disclosure also provides a panel interlocking device L for a carton 90 comprising a male tab M, M'; M1 , MT; M2, M2’; M3, M3’; M4; M5; M6 and female tab F, F’. The male tab M, M’; M1 , MT; M2, M2’; M3, M3’; M4; M5; M6 comprises a pair of first and second opposed side edges SE1 , SE2. The first side edge SE1 is a toothed edge along which a series of first engaging teeth ET1 are formed, whereas the second side edge SE2 is a toothed edge along which a series of second engaging teeth ET2 are formed. The first and second engaging teeth ET1 , ET2 are configured according to one of the following formulae:

[0165] L2 / NT < 1.9 or Ll / NT < 1.9 where "LI” (see Figure 2) or "L2” (see Figure 7) is the distance between the peak P of the distalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth ET1, ET2 and the peak P of the proximalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth (see Figure 7), and “NT" is the total number of the first and second engaging teeth ET1, ET2 provided on the male tab M, M’; M1 , MT; M2, M2’; M3, M3’; M4; M5; M6 The distance LI, L2 between the peak P of the distalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth ET1 , ET2 and the peak P of the proximalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth may be equal to or greater than 4.5mm (LI > 4.5mm) or (L2 > 4.5mm).

[0166] The ratio of the distance LI, L2 to the total number NT of the first and second engaging teeth ET1 , ET2 may be less than or equal to 1.1 , that is to say the first and second engaging teeth ET1, ET2 may be configured according to one of the following the formulae:

[0167] Ll / NT > 1.1 or L2 / NT > 1.1.

[0168] The first engaging teeth ET1 may be disposed at a tooth pitch equal to or less than 4.2mm.

[0169] The second engaging teeth ET2 may be disposed at a tooth pitch equal to or less than 4.2mm.

[0170] 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.

[0171] It will be recognised 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.

[0172] 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 / curvi linear 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.

[0173] 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.

[0174] 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, 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 or a severance line or both. 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. 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. A panel interlocking device for a carton comprising a female tab provided in a first panel and a male tab provided in a second panel, the female tab defining, at least in part a receiving opening in the first panel for receiving at least a portion of the male tab, the male tab comprising a pair of opposed side edges, at least one of which is a toothed edge, a first side edge defining a first notional line, a second side edge defining a second notional line, wherein the first notional line and second notional line are divergently arranged with respect to each other.

2. A panel interlocking device according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one toothed edge defines a plurality of locking positions or locations so as to facilitate securement of differing proportions of the male tab received in the receiving opening.

3. A panel interlocking device according to claim 1 , wherein the, or each, toothed edge defines a plurality of peaks and troughs, the apexes of the peaks define a notional peak line, the nadirs of the troughs define a notional base line, wherein the first notional line is defined by one of the notional peak line and the notional base line.

4. A panel interlocking device according to claim 1 , wherein the male tab comprises a toothless side edge defining a notional toothless line, the notional toothless line passes through at least opposite ends of the toothless side edge of the male tab.

5. A panel interlocking device according to claim 4, wherein the toothless side edge is linear.

6. A panel interlocking device according to claim 4, wherein the toothless side edge is nonlinear.

7. A panel interlocking device according to claim 4, wherein the toothless side edge is curvilinear or arcuate.

8. A panel interlocking device according to claim 7, wherein the toothless side edge is concave or convex in shape.

9. A panel interlocking device according to claim 1 , wherein the male tab has a distal end of a first width and a proximal end of a second width that is different from the first width.

10. A panel interlocking device according to claim 9, wherein the first notional line and second notional line define an angle therebetween that is less than 5°.

11. A panel interlocking device according to claim 10, wherein the first notional line and second notional line define an angle therebetween that is greater than 1 °.

12. A carton comprising a plurality of panels which includes a pair of panels and a locking device for securing a first one of the pair of panels in a face-contacting arrangement with a second one of the pair of panels, the locking device comprising a first engaging element provided by one of the pair of panels for engaging with a second engaging element provided by the other one of the pair of panels, the first engaging element comprising a male tab hingedly connected to said one of the pair of panels, the second engaging element comprising a receiving opening in the other one of the pair of panels for receiving at least a portion of the male tab, wherein the male tab comprises a pair of first and second opposed side edges, the first side edge is a toothed edge along which a series of first engaging teeth are formed, the first engaging teeth are configured according to the formula:Ll / N < 3.1where "LI” is the distance between the peak of the distalmost first engaging tooth and the peak of the proximalmost first engaging tooth, and "N" is the number of the first engaging teeth along the first side edge.

13. A panel interlocking device for a carton comprising a male tab and female tab, the male tab comprising a pair of first and second opposed side edges, the first side edge being a toothed edge along which a series of first engaging teeth are formed, wherein the first engaging teeth are configured according to the formula:Ll / N < 3.1 where "LI” is the distance between the peak of the distalmost first engaging tooth and the peak of the proximalmost first engaging tooth and "N" is the number of the first engaging teeth along the first side edge.

14. A panel interlocking device according to claim 13, wherein the distance between the peak of the distalmost first engaging tooth and the peak of the proximalmost first engaging tooth is equal to or greater than 3.0mm (LI > 3.0mm).

15. A panel interlocking device according to claim 13, wherein the first engaging teeth is configured according to the formula:Ll / N > 1.5.

16. A panel interlocking device according to claim 13, wherein the distance between the peak of the distalmost first engaging tooth and the peak of the proximalmost first engaging tooth is less than or equal to 20mm (LI < 20.0mm).

17. A panel interlocking device according to claim 16, wherein the second side edge is a toothless edge along which no engaging teeth are formed, and the distance between the peak of the distalmost first engaging tooth and the peak of the proximalmost first engaging tooth is less than or equal to 16mm (LI < 16.0mm).

18. A panel interlocking device according to claim 13, wherein the series of first engaging teeth are disposed at a tooth pitch equal to or less than 4.2mm.

19. A panel interlocking device according to claim 18, wherein the series of first engaging teeth are disposed at a tooth pitch equal to or less than 3.2mm.

0. A panel interlocking device according to claim 13, wherein the second side edge is a toothed edge along which a series of second engaging teeth are formed, the first and second engaging teeth are configured according to one of the following formulae:L2 / NT < 1.9 or Ll / NT < 1.9 where “LI” or “L2” is the distance between the peak of the distalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth and the peak of the proximalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth, and "NT" is the total number of the first and second engaging teeth provided on the male tab. 1 . A panel interlocking device according to claim 20, wherein the second teeth are offset with respect to the first teeth.

22. A panel interlocking device according to claim 20, wherein the distance between the peak of the distalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth and the peak of the proximalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth is equal to or greater than 4.5mm (LI > 4.5mm) or (L2 > 4.5mm).

23. A panel interlocking device according to claim 20, wherein the ratio of the distance between the peak of the distalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth and the peak of the proximalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth to the total number of the first and second engaging teeth is less than or equal to 1 .1 , the first and second engaging teeth are configured according to one of the following the formulae:Ll / NT > 1.1 or L2 / NT > 1.1.

24. A panel interlocking device according to claim 20, wherein the series of second engaging teeth are disposed at a tooth pitch equal to or less than 4.2mm.

25. A panel interlocking device according to claim 24, wherein the series of second engaging teeth are disposed at a tooth pitch equal to or less than 3.2mm.

26. A carton comprising a plurality of panels which includes a pair of panels and a locking device for securing a first one of the pair of panels in a face-contacting arrangement with a second one of the pair of panels, the locking device comprising a first engaging element provided by one of the pair of panels for engaging with a second engaging element provided by the other one of the pair of panels, the first engaging element comprising a male tab hingedly connected to said one of the pair of panels, the second engaging element comprising a receiving opening in the other one of the pair of panels for receiving at least a portion of the male tab, wherein the male tab comprises a pair of first and second opposed side edges, the first side edge is a toothed edge along which a series of first engaging teeth are formed and the second side edge is a toothed edge along which a series of second engaging teeth are formed, the first and second engaging teeth are configured according to one of the following formulae:L2 / NT < 1.9 or Ll / NT < 1.9 where "LI” or "L2” is the distance between the peak of the distalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth and the peak of the proximalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth, and "NT" is the total number of the first and second engaging teeth provided on the male tab.

27. A panel interlocking device for a carton comprising a male tab and female tab, the male tab comprises a pair of first and second opposed side edges, the first side edge is a toothed edge along which a series of first engaging teeth are formed and the second side edge is a toothed edge along which a series of second engaging teeth are formed, the first and second engaging teeth are configured according to one of the following formulae:L2 / NT < 1.9 or Ll / NT < 1.9 where "LI” or "L2” is the distance between the peak of the distalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth and the peak of the proximalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth, and "NT" is the total number of the first and second engaging teeth provided on the male tab.

28. A panel interlocking device according to claim 27, wherein the second teeth are offset with respect to the first teeth.

29. A panel interlocking device according to claim 27, wherein the distance between the peak of the distalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth and the peak of the proximalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth is equal to or greater than 4.5mm (LI > 4.5mm) or (L2 > 4.5mm).

30. A panel interlocking device according to claim 27, wherein the ratio of the distance between the peak of the distalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth and the peak of the proximalmost one of the first and second engaging teeth to the total number of the first and second engaging teeth is less than or equal to 1.1 , the first and second engaging teeth are configured according to one of the following the formulae:Ll / NT > 1.1 or L2 / NT > 1.1.31 . A panel interlocking device according to claim 27, wherein the series of first engaging teeth are disposed at a tooth pitch equal to or less than 4.2mm.

32. A panel interlocking device according to claim 31 , wherein the series of first engaging teeth are disposed at a tooth pitch equal to or less than 3.2mm.

33. A panel interlocking device according to claim 31 , wherein the series of second engaging teeth are disposed at a tooth pitch equal to or less than 4.2mm.

34. A panel interlocking device according to claim 33, wherein the series of second engaging teeth are disposed at a tooth pitch equal to or less than 3.2mm.

35. A carton comprising a plurality of panels including a pair of panels and a locking device for securing a first one of the pair of panels in a face-contacting arrangement with a second one of the pair of panels, the locking device comprising a first engaging element provided by one of the pair of panels for engaging with a second engaging element provided by the other one of the pair of panels, the first engaging element comprising a male tab hingedly connected to said one of the pair of panels, the second engaging element comprising a receiving opening in the other one of the pair of panels for receiving at least a portion of the male tab, wherein the male tab comprises a pair of opposed side edges, at least one of which is a toothed edge, a first side edge defines a first notional line and a second side edge defines a second notional line, and wherein the first notional line and second notional line are divergently arranged with respect to each other.

36. A carton according to claim 36, wherein the at least one toothed edge defines a plurality of locking positions or locations so as to facilitate securement of differing proportions of the male tab received in the receiving opening.

37. A blank for forming a carton comprising a plurality of panels including a pair of panels and a panel locking device according to anyone of claims 1 , 12, 13, 26, 27 and 35.

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