Article carrier and blank therfor

Abstract

Aspects of the disclosure relate to article carriers for packaging one or more articles and blanks for forming the carriers. The present disclosure provides a top-engaging article carrier comprising a plurality of panels including a first engaging panel. The article carrier comprises a non-linear tear line formed on the first engaging panels and disposed between an article receptacle defined in the first engaging panel and an adjacent outer perimeter (OP) of the first engaging panel.

Description

[0001] ARTICLE CARRIER AND BLANK THERFOR

[0002] TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present invention relates to article carriers and to blanks for forming the article carriers. More specifically, but not exclusively, the invention relates to a carrier of the top-gripping type having one or more apertures for receiving and retaining an article therein.

[0004] BACKGROUND

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

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

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

[0008] SUMMARY

[0009] A first aspect of the invention provides a top-engaging article carrier for packaging one or more articles. The article carrier comprises a plurality of panels including a first engaging panel, and a second engaging panel secured together in a face-contacting arrangement to form a composite engaging panel. The article carrier further comprises a first tear line formed on, or in, one of the first and second engaging panels and disposed between an article receptacle defined in both the first and second engaging panels and an adjacent outer perimeter of the composite engaging panel. The first tear line may be spaced part from a glue area of the one engaging panel. The glue area is glued to the other of the first and second engaging panels.

[0010] Optionally, the outer perimeter is defined by a free edge.

[0011] Optionally, the outer perimeter is defined, at least in part, by a hinged edge of the one engaging panel.

[0012] Optionally, the article carrier comprises a second tear line formed on the other one of the first and second engaging panels and disposed between the article receptacle and an adjacent outer perimeter of said other engaging panel, wherein one of the first and second tear lines is coextensive with at least part of the other of the first and second tear lines, and wherein the second tear line is spaced part from the glue area.

[0013] Optionally, the one engaging panel is the first engaging panel while the other engaging panel is the second engaging panel. The plurality of panels may further include a third engaging panel disposed in a face-to-face arrangement with the first engaging panel to form the composite engaging panel. The article carrier may further comprise a second tear line formed on one of the first and third engaging panels and disposed between an article receptacle defined in both the first and third engaging panels and an adjacent outer perimeter of the composite engaging panel. The second tear line may be spaced part from a glue area of the first engaging panel wherein the glue area is glued to the third engaging panel.

[0014] Optionally, the second and third engaging panels are disposed in at least partial overlapping relationship with each other.

[0015] A second aspect of the invention provides a top-engaging article carrier for packaging one or more articles. The article carrier comprises a plurality of panels including a first engaging panel, and a second engaging panel secured together in a face-contacting arrangement to form a composite engaging panel. The article carrier further comprises a first tear line formed on one of the first and second engaging panels and disposed between an article receptacle defined in the composite engaging panel and an adjacent outer perimeter of the composite engaging panel. The first tear line may intersect with a glue area of the one engaging panel. The glue area is glued to the other of the first and second engaging panels.

[0016] Optionally, the article carrier comprises a second tear line formed on the other of the first and second engaging panels and disposed between the article receptacle and an adjacent outer perimeter of the other engaging panel, wherein one of the first and second tear lines is coextensive with at least part of the other of the first and second tear lines, and wherein the second tear line intersects with the glue area.

[0017] A third aspect of the invention provides a carrier blank for forming an article carrier. The carrier blank comprises at least one panel which includes a first engaging panel. The first engaging panel comprises a first article receptacle and a first non-linear tear line disposed between the article receptacle and an adjacent outer perimeter of the first engaging panel. The first article receptacle comprises a plurality of engaging teeth including a pair of first and second adjacent teeth having respective side edges defined by a common separation element. The common separation element includes a radially extending portion. The first non-linear tear line has an inner terminal end and is directed to the first article receptacle.

[0018] Optionally, the radially extending portion is a radial cut.

[0019] Optionally, the radially extending portion is a notch.

[0020] Optionally, the common separation element is a radially extending cutline.

[0021] Optionally, the common separation element is a notch.

[0022] Optionally, the common separation element is a “T” shaped cut having a radially extending portion.

[0023] Optionally, the non-linear tear line has an inner terminal end and is directed to the engaging teeth of the article receptacle.

[0024] Optionally, the non-linear tear line has an inner terminal end that is directed to the common separation element of the article receptacle.

[0025] Optionally, the outer perimeter of engaging panel is a free edge.

[0026] Optionally, the engaging panel is a two-ply structure formed from a pair of connected panels in face contacting relationship with each other so as to be parallel with each other, a portion of the outer perimeter of engaging panel is a hinged connection, the pair of connected panels being folded 180° with respect to each other about the hinged connection.

[0027] Optionally, the first and second teeth each have a proximal end defined at least in part by a circumferentially extending cut.

[0028] Optionally, the article receptacle comprises an aperture and a plurality of radial cutlines extending therefrom.

[0029] Optionally, the common separation element comprises a “T” shaped cut and the radially extending portion comprises a radially extending component of the “T” shaped cut.

[0030] Optionally, the common separation element further comprises a circumferentially extending component and wherein the inner terminal end of the non-linear tear line is directed to the circumferentially extending component of the “T” shaped cut.

[0031] Optionally, the first engaging panel comprises a first marginal portion, wherein the first non-linear tear line is formed on the first marginal portion.

[0032] Optionally, the first marginal portion is hingedly connected to the remainder of the first engaging panel.

[0033] Optionally, the at least one panel further includes a second engaging panel for disposition in a face-contacting arrangement with the first engaging panel to form a composite engaging panel. The second engaging panel may comprise: a second marginal portion hingedly connected to the first marginal portion by a first fold line; a second article receptacle; and a second non-linear tear line disposed on the second marginal portion which is disposed between the second article receptacle and the first fold line.

[0034] Optionally, the at least one panel further includes a third engaging panel for disposition in a face-contacting arrangement with the first engaging panel to form the composite engaging panel. The third engaging panel may comprise: a third marginal portion; a third article receptacle, and a third non-linear tear line disposed on the third marginal portion. The first engaging panel may further comprise: a fourth marginal portion hingedly connected to the third marginal portion by a second fold line; a fourth article receptacle; and a fourth non-linear tear line disposed on the fourth marginal portion which is disposed between the fourth article receptacle and the second fold line. The third non-linear tear line may be disposed between the third article receptacle and the second fold line.

[0035] Optionally, the second and third engaging panels are disposed in at least partial overlapping arrangement with each other when the composite engagement panel is formed.

[0036] A fourth aspect of the invention provides a carrier blank for forming an article carrier. The carrier blank comprises a first engaging panel and a second engaging panel connected to the first engaging panel by a weakened line. The first panel comprises a first article receptacle. The second panel comprises a second article receptacle. The blank further comprises a tear line extending from the first engaging panel across the weakened line into the second engaging panel. The tear line is bisected by the weakened line into a first non-linear segment and second non-linear segment each extending from the weakened line toward a respective one of the first and second article receptacles.

[0037] Optionally, the weakened line is a tear line.

[0038] Optionally, the weakened line is a fold line. Optionally, the first non-linear segment is formed of cuts of a first pattern and the second non-linear segment is formed of cuts of a second pattern, the second pattern is different to the first pattern.

[0039] Optionally, the first and second non-linear segments are of different lengths.

[0040] A fifth aspect of the invention provides a carrier blank for forming an article carrier. The carrier blank comprises an engaging panel having an article receptacle, and a tear line disposed between the article receptacle and an adjacent linear edge of an outer perimeter of the engaging panel. The article receptacle comprises a plurality of engaging teeth. The tear line may include a linear segment which is disposed obliquely with respect to the linear edge.

[0041] A sixth aspect of the invention provides a carrier blank for forming an article carrier. The carrier blank comprises an engaging panel having a plurality of article receptacles, and a tear line disposed between at least one of the plurality of article receptacles and an adjacent outer perimeter of the engaging panel. The at least one article receptacle comprises a plurality of engaging teeth and the tear line may include a linear segment which is disposed obliquely with respect to a notional line passing through the respective centers of first and second ones of the plurality of article receptacles.

[0042] A seventh aspect of the invention provides a carrier blank for forming an article carrier. The carrier blank comprises a first engaging panel and a second engaging panel connected to the first engaging panel by a fold line. The first engaging panel comprises a first article receptacle and a first tear line disposed between the first article receptacle and an adjacent outer perimeter of the first engaging panel. The second panel comprises a second article receptacle and a second tear line disposed between the second article receptacle and an adjacent outer perimeter of the second engaging panel. The first and second tear lines may be configured and positioned such that they are coextensive, at least in part, when the first and second engaging panels are folded about the fold line into a face-contacting arrangement with each other. The first and second tear lines may be formed of cuts of different patterns.

[0043] Optionally, the first and second tear lines are formed of integer number of discrete cuts.

[0044] Optionally, the first and second tear lines comprise different number of discrete cuts.

[0045] Optionally, the first and second tear lines comprise cuts having different lengths.

[0046] Optionally, the first tear line comprises at least one first cut having at least one length and the second tear line comprises at least one second cut having a different length to the length of one of the at least one first cuts.

[0047] Optionally, the first and second tear lines each comprise cuts of different lengths and the cuts of the first tear line are arranged in a different sequence to the cuts of the second tear line.

[0048] Optionally, the first and second tear lines each comprise cuts of different lengths and the cuts of the first tear line are arranged in a different order to the cuts of the second tear line.

[0049] Optionally, the first and second tear lines extend from the fold line toward the first and second article receptacles, respectively.

[0050] An eighth aspect of the invention provides a carrier blank for forming an article carrier. The carrier blank comprises a first engaging panel and a second engaging panel connected to the first engaging panel by a fold line. The first engaging panel comprises a first article receptacle and a first tear line disposed between the first article receptacle and an adjacent outer perimeter of the first engaging panel. The second panel comprises a second article receptacle and a second tear line disposed between the second article receptacle and an adjacent outer perimeter of the second engaging panel. The first and second tear lines are configured and positioned such that they are coextensive, at least in part, when the first and second engaging panels are folded about the fold line into a face-contacting arrangement with each other. The first and second tear lines may be of different lengths.

[0051] Optionally, the first and second tear lines extend from the fold line toward the first and second article receptacles, respectively.

[0052] A ninth aspect of the invention provides a top-engaging article carrier for packaging one or more articles. The article carrier comprises an engaging panel. The article carrier further comprises at least one non-linear tear line formed on the engaging panel and disposed between an article receptacle defined in the engaging panel and an adjacent outer perimeter of the engaging panel. The article receptacle comprises a plurality of engaging teeth including a pair of first and second adjacent teeth having respective side edges defined by a common separation element. The common separation element includes a radially extending portion, and wherein the at least one nonlinear tear line has an inner terminal end and is directed to the article receptacle.

[0053] Optionally, the engaging panel comprises a first marginal portion forming a first shoulder panel and wherein the at least one non-linear tear line is defined in the first marginal portion.

[0054] Optionally, the first marginal portion is defined at least in part by a first marginal fold line.

[0055] Optionally, the first marginal fold line is interrupted by an article receptacle in the engaging panel.

[0056] Optionally, the engaging panel comprises a second marginal portion forming a second shoulder panel, the second marginal portion disposed opposite the first marginal portion and wherein the at least one non-linear tear line is defined in the second marginal portion.

[0057] Optionally, the second marginal portion is defined at least in part by a second marginal fold line.

[0058] Optionally, the second marginal fold line is interrupted by an article receptacle in the engaging panel.

[0059] A tenth aspect of the invention provides a carrier blank for forming an article carrier. The carrier blank comprises a first engaging panel having a first article receptacle and a first tear line disposed between the first article receptacle and an adjacent linear edge of an outer perimeter of the first engaging panel. The first article receptacle comprises a plurality of engaging teeth. The first tear line includes a first curved segment which intersects the linear edge of the first engaging panel. The first curved segment curves such that the center of the radius of curvature of the first curved segment is disposed on the linear edge or on a notional extension of the linear edge.

[0060] Otionally, the blank further comprises a second engaging panel connected to the first engaging panel by a weakened line which defines the linear edge of the first engaging panel. The second engaging panel may comprise a second article receptacle and a second tear line disposed between the second article receptacle and the weakened line. The second tear line may include a second curved segment which extends from an intersection of the first curved segment and the linear edge. The second curved segment may curve such that the center of the radius of curvature of the second curved segment is disposed on the weakened line or on a notional extension of the weakened line.

[0061] Optionally, the first and second curved segments are provided by a single continuously curved cut line. Optionally, the first article receptacle defines a notional center line passing through a center of the first article receptacle and disposed perpendicularly to the linear edge. The intersection of the first curved segment and the linear edge may be spaced apart from the notional center line.

[0062] Further features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the specific embodiments illustrated in the drawings and discussed below.

[0063] 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.

[0064] 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.

[0065] 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.

[0066] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0067] Exemplary embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0068] Figure 1 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming an article carrier according to a first embodiment;

[0069] Figure 2 is a plan view from above of an article carrier formed from the blank of Figure 1 ;

[0070] Figure 3 is a perspective view from above of an article carrier formed from the blank of Figure 1 ;

[0071] Figure 4 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming an article carrier according to a second embodiment;

[0072] Figure 5 is a plan view from above of an article carrier formed from the blank of Figure 4;

[0073] Figure 6 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming an article carrier according to a third embodiment;

[0074] Figure 7 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming an article carrier according to a fourth embodiment;

[0075] Figures 8A and 8B show bottom and top plan views, respectively, of a partially assembled carrier formed from the blank of Figure 7; and

[0076] Figure 9 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming an article carrier according to a fifth embodiment.

[0077] Figure 10 is a partial plan view from above of a blank for forming an article carrier according to a sixth embodiment;

[0078] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0079] Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of the article engaging devices, packages, 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 article engaging 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 minimized to show details of particular components. Well-known components, materials, or methods are not necessarily described in great detail in order to avoid obscuring the present disclosure. Any specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the invention.

[0080] Referring to Figure 1 , there is shown a plan view of a blank 10 capable of forming a carton or carrier 90, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, for containing and carrying a group of primary products such as, but not limited to, bottles or cans, hereinafter referred to as articles. The articles may be generally cylindrical; the articles may comprise a circular cross-sectional shape, at least about a region of engagement with the carrier 90. The blank 10 forms a secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package. Alternative blanks 110; 210; 310; 410 are shown in Figures 4, 6, 7 and 9 for forming an alternative carton or carrier 190 as shown in Figure 5.

[0081] In the embodiments detailed herein, the terms "carton” and "carrier” refer, for the non-limiting purpose of illustrating the various features of the invention, to a container for engaging and carrying articles, such as primary product containers. It is contemplated that the teachings of the invention can be applied to various product containers, which may or may not be tapered and / or cylindrical. Exemplary containers include bottles (for example metallic, glass or plastics bottles), cans (for example aluminum cans), tins, pouches, packets, and the like.

[0082] The blanks 10; 110; 210; 310; 410 are formed from a sheet of suitable substrate. It is to be understood that, as used herein, the term "suitable substrate” includes all manner of foldable sheet material such as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, and the like. It should be recognized that one or other numbers of blanks may be employed, where suitable, for example, to provide the carrier structure described in more detail below.

[0083] The packaging structures or cartons 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 Smurfit 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.

[0084] In the illustrated embodiments, the blanks 10; 110; 210; 310; 410 are configured to form cartons or carriers 90; 190; 390 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1 , the arrangement is a 2 x 3 matrix or array -two rows of three articles are provided- and the articles are 24US fl. oz. (approx. 710mL) plastic bottles. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 4 and 5, the arrangement is a 2 x 3 matrix or array -two rows of three articles are provided- and the articles are 20US fl. oz. (approx. 591 mL) plastic bottles. Alternatively, the blanks 10; 110; 210; 310; 410 can be configured to form carriers for packaging other types, number, and size of articles and / or for packaging articles in a different arrangement or configuration.

[0085] Referring to Figure 1 there is shown a blank 10 comprising a first panel 12 for forming an upper panel of a carrier 90 (see Figures 2 and 3) and a second panel 14 for forming a lower panel of the carrier 90. The second panel 14 is connected to the first panel 12 by a weakened line 13. The weakened line may form a hinged connection and may take the form of a fold line, severance line, or tear line. The first and second panels 12, 14 form a two-ply engaging panel 12 / 14 in a setup carrier 90. The first panel 12 may be considered to form either one of a main panel and a reinforcing panel of a carrier 90, the second panel 14 may be considered to form the other of the main panel and the reinforcing panel of said carrier 90. In some embodiments, the second panels 14 may be omitted, in still other embodiments the first panels 12 may be omitted and the engaging panel may be single ply in construction.

[0086] The first panel 12 includes at least one article engaging structure RT1. In the illustrated embodiment, the first panel 12 comprises a plurality of article engaging structures RT1 specifically six first or upper article engaging structures RT1 arranged in 2 x 3 matrix or array. The first panel 12 comprises three columns of first article engaging structures RT1 , each column comprises two first article engaging structures RT1. The first panel 12 comprises two rows of first article engaging structures RT1 , each row comprises three first article engaging structures RT 1 .

[0087] Each of the first article retention structures RT1 comprises an article receiving opening defined in part by an aperture A1 . The first article retention structures RT 1 comprise a plurality of engaging teeth 40 disposed about the aperture A1 arranged in an annular series.

[0088] Each of the plurality of engaging teeth 40 is hinged to the first panel 12 by a hinged connection. The hinged connections may be defined by a plurality of first cutlines 43. The plurality of first cutlines 43 are spaced apart from each other to define the hinged connection between adjacent pairs of first cutlines 43. The plurality of first cutlines 43 may define or approximate a circle or at least a portion thereof. Each tooth 40 is defined in part by a pair of second cutlines 41 defining side edges thereof. Each second cutline 41 may be arranged to radially extend from the aperture A1. Each second cutline 41 may be configured to bisect the hinged connection between an adjacent pair of first cutlines 43. The second cutline 41 forms a common separation element between a pair of adjacently disposed teeth 40. In other embodiments, the common separation element may take a different form such as a slot, recess, or other suitable cutaway.

[0089] The illustrated embodiment comprises eight engaging teeth 40 and the apertures A1 take the form of an octagon, in other embodiments, more or less teeth may be provided and the apertures A1 may take other polygonal forms. In some embodiments, the apertures A1 may be circular in such embodiments a free end edge of each tooth 40 may be arcuate or curvilinear. In the illustrated embodiment, the free end edge E1 of each tooth 40 is linear. The free end edge E1 of each tooth 40 opposes the hinged connection between the tooth 40 and the first panel 12 and defines an engaging edge for engaging with an article. The second panel 14 includes at least one article engaging structure RT2. In the illustrated embodiment, the second panel 14 comprises a plurality of article engaging structures RT2 specifically six second or lower article engaging structures RT2 arranged in 2 x 3 matrix or array. The second panel 14 comprises three columns of second article engaging structures RT2, each column comprises two second article engaging structures RT2. The second panel 14 comprises two rows of second article engaging structures RT2, each row comprises three second article engaging structures RT2.

[0090] Each of the second article engaging structures RT2 comprises an article receiving opening defined in part by a second aperture A2. The second article engaging structures RT2 comprise a plurality of second engaging teeth 50 disposed about the second aperture A2 arranged in an annular series.

[0091] Each of the plurality of engaging teeth 50 are hinged to the second panel 14 by a hinged connection. The hinged connections may be defined by a plurality of third cutlines 53. The plurality of third cutlines 53 are spaced apart from each other to define hinge or connection portions between adjacent pairs of third cutlines 53. Each tooth 50 is defined in part by a pair of fourth cutlines 51 defining side edges thereof. Each fourth cutline 51 may be arranged to radially extend from the second aperture A2. Each fourth cutline 51 may be configured to intersect or bisect one of a fifth cutline 55 so as to form a substantially “T” shaped cut. Each fifth cut line 55 is arranged to extend substantially circumferentially about the second aperture A2. A plurality of third cutlines 53 is disposed between adjacent pairs fifth cut lines 55. The fourth cutlines 51 form a common separation element between a pair of adjacently disposed teeth 50. The fifth cut line 55, associated with each fourth cutline 51, may be considered to be part of the common separation element. In other embodiments, the common separation element may take a different form such as a slot, recess, or other suitable cutaway.

[0092] The illustrated embodiment comprises four engaging teeth 50. The second apertures A2 may generally take the form of a square or rhombus. The second apertures A2 may be defined by nonlinear sides or edges E2, which sides or edges E2 engage an article (not shown), the nonlinear side may be arcuate or may be formed by two linear sections divergently arranged with respect to each other -in such embodiments, the second apertures A2 may take the form of an irregular octagon. Each tooth may comprise a radially extending fold line 57 such that each tooth 50 may fold at least partially about the article when received in the second article engaging structures RT2.

[0093] In other embodiments, more or less teeth may be provided and the second apertures A2 may take other polygonal forms. In some embodiments, the second apertures A2 may be circular in such embodiments a free end edge of each tooth 50 may be arcuate or curvilinear, the free end edge opposes the hinged connection to the second panel 14.

[0094] Each first article engaging structure RT1 in the first panel 12 is configured to be disposed in vertical alignment with a respective one of the second article retention structures RT2 in the second panel 14.

[0095] The blank 10 may comprise a handle structure. The handle structure comprises at least one handle opening H1 defined in the first panel 12 and at least one handle aperture A4 defined in the second panel 14 and configured to be in vertical registry with the at least one handle opening H1 defined in the first panel 12. The handle apertures A4 may be shaped complementary to the handle opening H1 with which they are arranged to be disposed in vertical registry with, in a set-up carrier 90, and may be larger in dimension than said handle opening H1. The illustrated embodiment comprises two handle openings H1 in the first panel 12 and two handle apertures A4 in the second panel 14. Each handle opening H1 is disposed centrally between a group of four first article retention structures RT1 in the first panel 12. Each handle aperture A4 is disposed centrally between a group of four second article retention structures RT2 in the second panel 14.

[0096] Each of the first handle openings H1 comprises an aperture A3 and a pair of tabs 60. Each of the tabs of the pair 60 is struck from the first panel 12 and is hingedly connected thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 61 . The pair of fold lines 61 are divergently arranged with respect to each other. The pair of tabs 60 are separated from each other by a cut line or severable line 65 extending from the aperture A3. The first handle opening H1 may be generally tear drop shaped.

[0097] In the illustrated embodiment, the first panel 12 comprises a pair of handle openings H1 arranged in opposition to each other, that is to say the pair of handle openings H1 are mirror images of each other.

[0098] The blank 10 comprises at least one nonlinear tear line 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b. In the illustrated embodiment, the first panel 12 comprises six primary nonlinear tear lines 16a, 16b. A primary nonlinear tear line 16a, 16b may extend from each first article engaging structure RT1 in the first panel 12 towards an adjacent edge or perimeter of the first panel 12. The first panel 12 may comprise at least one first primary nonlinear tear line 16a and at least one second primary nonlinear tear line 16b, the second primary nonlinear tear line 16b being a mirror image of the first primary nonlinear tear line 16a. The first primary nonlinear tear line 16a may be associated with a first article retention structure RT1 at a first end of the first panel 12, whereas the second primary nonlinear tear line 16b may be associated with a first article retention structure RT1 at a second, opposing, end of the first panel 12. The illustrated embodiment comprises four first primary nonlinear tear lines 16a and two second primary nonlinear tear lines 16b. The intermediate or medial first article retention structures RT1 are associated with a respective first primary nonlinear tear lines 16a (albeit in other embodiments they may be associated with a second primary nonlinear tear line 16b).

[0099] The second panel 14 comprises six secondary nonlinear tear lines 18a, 18b. A secondary nonlinear tear line 18a, 18b may extend from each second article engaging structure RT2 in the second panel 14 towards an adjacent edge or perimeter of the second panel 14.

[0100] The second panel 14 may comprise at least one first secondary nonlinear tear line 18a and at least one second secondary nonlinear tear line 18b, the second secondary nonlinear tear line 18b being a mirror image of the first secondary nonlinear tear line 18a. The first secondary nonlinear tear line 18a may be associated with a second article retention structure RT2 at a first end of the second panel 14, whereas the second secondary nonlinear tear line 18b may be associated with a second article retention structure RT2 at a second, opposing, end of the second panel 14. The illustrated embodiment comprises four first secondary nonlinear tear lines 18a and two second secondary nonlinear tear lines 18b. The intermediate or medial second article retention structures RT2 are associated with a respective first secondary nonlinear tear lines 18a (albeit in other embodiments they may be associated with a second secondary nonlinear tear line 18b). The nonlinear tear lines 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b may comprise a wavy or undulating shape. The nonlinear tear lines 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b may take the form of a plurality of cuts or perforations. The pattern of cuts of the primary nonlinear tear lines 16a, 16b may be different to the pattern of cuts of the secondary nonlinear tear lines 18a, 18b. For example, but not limited to, the primary nonlinear tear lines 16a, 16b may comprise a plurality of short cuts, the illustrated embodiment comprises four short cuts, whereas the secondary nonlinear tear lines 18a, 18b may comprise at least one long cut, in the illustrated embodiment, the secondary nonlinear tear lines 18a, 18b comprise one long cut and one short cut.

[0101] The secondary nonlinear tear lines 18a, 18b may have a lower tear resistance than the primary nonlinear tear lines 16a, 16b, that is to say the secondary nonlinear tear lines 18a, 18b may be more easily torn than the primary nonlinear tear lines 16a, 16b, or may require less force to be torn.

[0102] Each of the primary nonlinear tear lines 16a, 16b in the first panel 12 that extends from the first article engaging structures RT 1 to the weakened line 13 may be arranged to be continuous or contiguous with a respective one of the secondary nonlinear tear lines 18a, 18b in the second panel 14 that extends from the second article engaging structures RT2 to the weakened line 13. In this way, the weakened line 13 may be considered to separate, or bisect, a nonlinear tear line 16a / 18a, 16b / 18b extending substantially between a first article engaging structures RT1 in the first panel 12 and an adjacently disposed second article engaging structures RT2 in the second panel 14 into two nonlinear segments 16a, 18a; 16b, 18b. The nonlinear segment 16a, 18a; 16b, 18b in a first one of the first and second panels 12, 14 may be configured to be in vertical alignment or registry with the nonlinear segment 16a, 18a; 16b, 18b in a second one of the first and second panels 12, 14; in this way, a tear line 16a / 18a, 16b / 18b is formed in the two-ply engaging panel 12 / 14.

[0103] Turning to the construction of the article carrier 90 as illustrated in Figures 2 and 3, the article carrier 90 can be formed by a series of sequential folding operations. The folding process is not limited to that described below and may be altered according to particular manufacturing requirements.

[0104] Glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to one or both of the first and second panels 12, 14 of the blank 10. Figure 1 illustrates a plurality of glue areas Gon the second panel 14. A glue area G may be disposed between an adjacent pair of the second nonlinear tear lines 18a, 18b.

[0105] Further glue areas G may be disposed between adjacent pairs of second article engaging structures RT2 in each column of second article engaging structures RT2.

[0106] The second panel 14 is folded with respect to the first panel 12, about weakened line 13, to be brought in to face contacting relationship with the first panel 12. The second panel 14 is secured to the first panel 14.

[0107] The assembled carrier 90 may be subsequently applied to a group of articles such that an article is received in each of the article engaging structures RT1 / RT2 in the engaging panel 12 / 14.

[0108] Referring now to Figures 4 to 10, there is shown additional embodiments of the present disclosure. In the additional illustrated embodiments like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix "100”; "200”; "300”; "400”; "500” to indicate that these features belong to the second, third, fourth, fifth and sixth embodiments, respectively. The additional embodiments share many common features with the first embodiment and therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 3 will be described in detail.

[0109] Figure 4 shows a blank 110 according to a second embodiment for forming an article carrier 190 (see Figure 5). A first panel 112 is connected to a second panel 114 by a connection 113.

[0110] The first panel 112 comprises six first or upper article engaging structures RT3 in a 2 x 3 matrix or array, the first article engaging structures RT3 are substantially similar to the first article engaging structures RT1 of Figure 1 albeit it the first article engaging structures RT3 comprise a plurality of circumferential cutlines 145 configured to form a “T” shaped cut with radially extending cutlines 141. The circumferential first cutlines 43 of Figure 1 have been omitted and each engaging tooth 140 is hingedly connected to the first panel 112 by hinged connection defined between a pair of adjacently disposed circumferential cutlines 145. In other embodiments, a further circumferential cut line may be disposed between adjacent pairs of circumferential cutlines 145 such that a hinge or connection portion is defined between the further circumferential cut line and each of the circumferential cutlines 145.

[0111] The second panel 114 comprises six second article engaging structures RT4 in a 2 x 3 matrix or array, the second article engaging structures RT4 are substantially similar to the first article engaging structures RT3 albeit the second article engaging structures RT4 are oriented differently. The second article engaging structures RT2 can be considered to be rotated about their respective centers through an angle equivalent to half of an engaging tooth 140, 150. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the engaging teeth 140, 150 occupies an angular width of 45°; the second article engaging structures RT4 can be considered to be rotated through an angle of 22.5° with respect to the first article engaging structures RT3. As a consequence, in the assembled carrier 190 each tooth 150 in the second panel 150 is in partial overlapping relationship with each of an adjacent pair of engaging teeth 140 provided in the first panel 112.

[0112] The first panel 112 comprises a pair of handle openings H1. The handle opening H1 each comprise, or are defined by, a pair of handle tabs 160. Each of the handle tabs 160 is struck from the first panel 112 and is hingedly connected thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 161. The pair of fold lines 161 are divergently arranged with respect to each other. The pair of handle tabs 160 are separated from each other by a cut line or severable line 165. Each handle tab 160 may comprise a further fold line 163 spaced apart from and substantially parallel to the fold line 161 hinged the tab 160 to the first panel 112. The first handle opening H1 may be generally kite or diamond shaped.

[0113] Each handle opening H1 is disposed centrally between a group of four first article retention structures RT3 in the first panel 112. The pair of handle openings H1 are arranged in opposition to each other, that is to say the pair of handle openings H1 are mirror images of each other.

[0114] The second panel 114 comprises pair of handle apertures A4, the handle apertures A4 are substantially similar to the handle apertures A4 of Figure 1 albeit generally kite or diamond shaped so as to be complementary to the handle openings H1. Each handle aperture A4 is disposed centrally between a group of four second article retention structures RT4 in the second panel 114. The handle openings H1 in the first panel 112 and / or the handle apertures A4 in the second panel 114 form a handle structure H1 / H2 for carrying the article carrier 190 and any articles loaded therein. The handle structure H1 / H2 may comprise at least one handle opening H1 defined in the first panel 112 and at least one handle aperture A4 defined in the second panel 114 and configured to be in vertical registry with the at least one handle opening H1 defined in the first panel 112.

[0115] The blank 110 comprises at least one nonlinear tear line 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b. In the illustrated embodiment, the first panel 112 comprises six primary nonlinear tear lines 116a, 116b. A primary nonlinear tear line 116a, 116b may extend from each first article engaging structure RT1 in the first panel 112 towards an adjacent edge or perimeter of the first panel 112.

[0116] The primary nonlinear tear lines 116a, 116b differ from those of the embodiment shown in Figure 1 in that the number of cuts is reduced to two cuts. A first short cut is disposed adjacent, or proximate, to the outer perimeter of the first panel 112 and a second longer and nonlinear cut is disposed inwardly of the first short cut.

[0117] The second panel 114 comprises six secondary nonlinear tear lines 118a, 118b. A secondary nonlinear tear line 118a, 118b may extend from each second article engaging structure RT2 in the second panel 114 towards an adjacent edge or perimeter of the second panel 114.

[0118] The secondary nonlinear tear lines 118a, 118b are similar to those of Figure 1 in that they comprise a pair of cuts a first long cut adjacent to the outer perimeter of the second panel 114 and a second shorter cut inwardly thereof. The secondary nonlinear tear lines 118a, 118b differ from those of the embodiment shown in Figure 1 in second shorter cut is linear in shape while the first long cut may be nonlinear. At least a portion of the first long cut is divergently arranged with respect to the second shorter cut.

[0119] In the embodiment of Figure 1 , the primary nonlinear tear lines 16a, 16b extend towards an outer terminal end of a radial cutline 41 separating a pair of adjacent engaging teeth 40. The inner terminal end of the primary nonlinear tear lines 16a, 16b is spaced apart from the outer terminal end of a radial cutline 41 , a portion of the first panel 12 is defined therebetween, said portion of the first panel 12 may be severed to define a continuous tear between the first article engaging structure RT 1 and the outer perimeter of the first panel 12.

[0120] In the embodiment of Figure 1 , the secondary nonlinear tear lines 18a, 18b extend towards one of the terminal ends of a circumferential cutline 55. The inner terminal end of the secondary nonlinear tear lines 18a, 18b is spaced apart from said one of the terminal ends of the circumferential cutline 55, a portion of the second panel 14 is defined therebetween, said portion of the second panel 14 may be severed to define a continuous tear between the second article engaging structure RT2 and the outer perimeter of the second panel 14.

[0121] In the embodiment of Figure 4, the primary nonlinear tear lines 116a, 116b extend towards one of the circumferential cutlines 145 disposed at an outer terminal end of a radial cutline 141. The primary nonlinear tear lines 116a, 116b may extend towards the vertex or intersection of the circumferential cutline 145 with its associated radial cutline 141.

[0122] The inner terminal end of the primary nonlinear tear lines 116a, 116b is spaced apart from the circumferential cutline 145, a portion of the first panel 112 is defined therebetween, said portion of the first panel 112 may be severed to define a continuous tear between the first article engaging structure RT3 and the outer perimeter of the first panel 112. The tear may propagate to any point along the circumferential cutline 145 including either end thereof.

[0123] In the embodiment of Figure 4, the secondary nonlinear tear lines 118a, 118b extend towards one of the terminal ends of a circumferential cutline 155. The inner terminal end of the secondary nonlinear tear lines 118a, 118b is spaced apart from said one of the terminal ends of the circumferential cutline 155, a portion of the second panel 114 is defined therebetween, said portion of the second panel 114 may be severed to define a continuous tear between the second article engaging structure RT4 and the outer perimeter of the second panel 114.

[0124] Figure 6 shows a blank 210 according to a third embodiment for forming an article carrier (not shown). The blank 210 comprises a single engaging panel 212, whereas the previous illustrated embodiments comprise a pair of engaging panels in face-to -face relationship with each other.

[0125] Optionally, the engaging panel 212 comprises a pair of marginal side portions 212A, 212B each hingedly connected to a medial or central portion 212 by a respective hinged connection in the form of a fold line 211 A, 211 B. The marginal side portions 212A, 212B may form first and second shoulder or side panels 212A, 212B, respectively. The first and second shoulder or side panels 212A, 212B may be folded about respective sides or shoulders of a group of articles (not shown) being packaged.

[0126] The engaging panel 212 comprises six article engaging structures RT5 in a 2 x 3 matrix or array. The engaging panel 212 comprises three columns of article engaging structures RT5, each column comprises two article engaging structures RT5. The engaging panel 212 comprises two rows of article engaging structures RT5, each row comprises three article engaging structures RT5.

[0127] Each of the article retention structures RT5 comprises an article receiving opening defined in part by an aperture A7. The article retention structures RT5 comprise a plurality of engaging teeth 240 disposed about the aperture A7 arranged in an annular series.

[0128] Each of the plurality of engaging teeth 240 is hinged to the engaging panel 212 by a hinged connection. The hinged connections may be defined by a plurality of perimeter or circumferential cutlines 243, 245. The plurality of perimeter cutlines 243, 245 may define an octagonally shaped opening, as illustrated in Figure 6.

[0129] The article retention structures RT5, in the illustrated embodiment, comprise four engaging teeth 240 and the apertures A7 take the form of a square or rectangle, in other embodiments, more or less teeth may be provided and the apertures A7 may take other polygonal forms. The plurality of engaging teeth 240 comprise a first pair of opposed teeth 240 and a second pair of opposed teeth 240; the hinged connections of the first pair of opposed teeth 240 are oriented orthogonally to the hinged connections of the second pair of opposed teeth 240. The hinged connections of the first pair of opposed teeth 240 may be oriented parallel to the hinged connections between the marginal side portions 212A, 212B of the engaging panel 212 and the medial portion 212.

[0130] Side edges of the engaging teeth 240 are defined, at least in part, by radial cutlines 241. A radial cutline 241 extends from each vertex or corner of the aperture A7.

[0131] Each radial cutline 241 is associated with a respective one of a plurality of second perimeter cutlines 245 such that a “T” shaped cut is formed. Each radial cutline 241 and its respective second perimeter cutline 245 may be spaced apart from each other or may, as illustrated, intersect with each other. The article retention structures RT5 comprise a plurality of first perimeter outlines 243. A first perimeter outline 243 is disposed between a pair of second perimeter cutlines 245. The engaging teeth 240 comprise hinged connections in the form of bridging or connecting portion disposed between a second perimeter cutline 245 and a first perimeter cutline 243.

[0132] In the illustrated embodiment, an engaging tooth 240 proximate or adjacent a marginal side portion 212A, 212B comprises a hinged connection defined between a pair of second perimeter cutlines 245 only, the first perimeter cutline 243 has been omitted, in this way the engaging tooth 240 is integral with the respective marginal side portion 212A, 212B.

[0133] The blank 210 may comprise a handle structure. The handle structure comprises at least one handle opening H1 defined in the engaging panel 212, the handle openings H1 are substantially similar to the handle openings H1 of the embodiment shown in Figure 1 and will not be described in further detail.

[0134] The blank 210 comprises at least one nonlinear tear line 216a, 216b. In the illustrated embodiment, the engaging panel 212 comprises six nonlinear tear lines 216a, 216b. A nonlinear tear line 216a, 216b may extend from each article engaging structure RT5 in the engaging panel 212 towards an adjacent edge or perimeter of the engaging panel 212. The first panel 12 may comprise at least one first nonlinear tear line 216a and at least one second nonlinear tear line 216b, the second nonlinear tear line 216b being a mirror image of the first nonlinear tear line 216a. The first nonlinear tear line 216a may be associated with an article retention structure RT5 at a first end of the engaging panel 212, whereas the second nonlinear tear line 216b may be associated with an article retention structure RT5 at a second, opposing, end of the engaging panel 212. The illustrated embodiment comprises four first nonlinear tear lines 216a and two second nonlinear tear lines 216b. The intermediate or medial article retention structures RT5 are associated with a respective first nonlinear tear lines 216a (albeit in other embodiments they may be associated with a second nonlinear tear line 216b).

[0135] The nonlinear tear lines 216a, 216b are defined within one of the marginal side portions 212A, 212B.

[0136] The nonlinear tear lines 216a, 216b may comprise a wavy or undulating shape. The nonlinear tear lines 216a, 216b may take the form of a plurality of cuts or perforations. For example, but not limited to, the nonlinear tear lines 216a, 216b may comprise at least one long cut and at least one short cut. In the illustrated embodiment, the nonlinear tear lines 216a, 216b comprise one long cut and two short cuts, the long cut may be disposed in closer proximity to the article retention structure RT5 than the short cuts.

[0137] Figure 7 shows a blank 310 according to a fourth embodiment for forming an article carrier 390, shown in Figures 8A and 8B. The blank 310 comprises a first or upper engaging panel 312 and a pair of second or lower engaging panels 314A, 314B. A first lower engaging panel 314A is hingedly connected to the upper engaging panel 312, along a first side edge of the upper engaging panel 312, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 313A. A second lower engaging panel 314B is hingedly connected to the upper engaging panel 312, along an opposing side edge to the first side edge, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 313B.

[0138] Optionally, the upper engaging panel 312 comprises a pair of marginal side portions 312A, 312B each hingedly connected to a medial or central portion 312 by a respective hinged connection in the form of a fold line 311 A, 311 B. The marginal side portions 312A, 312B may form first and second upper shoulder or side panels 312A, 312 B, respectively. The first and second upper shoulder or side panels 312A, 312B may be folded about respective sides or shoulders of a group of articles (not shown) being packaged.

[0139] Optionally, the first lower engaging panel 314A comprises a marginal side portion 314C hingedly connected to a main portion 314A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 319A. The marginal side portion 3140 of the first lower engaging panel 314A is hingedly connected to a first marginal side portion 312A of the upper engaging panel 312.

[0140] Optionally, the second lower engaging panel 314B comprises a marginal side portion 314D hingedly connected to a main portion 314B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 319B. The marginal side portion 314D of the second lower engaging panel 314B is hingedly connected to a second marginal side portion 312B of the upper engaging panel 312A, 314B may form first and second lower shoulder or side panels 314C, 314D, respectively. The first and second lower shoulder or side panels 314C, 314D may be disposed in face-to-face relationship with the one of the pair of marginal side portions 312A, 312B to which they are hingedly connected and may be folded about respective sides or shoulders of a group of articles (not shown) being packaged.

[0141] The upper engaging panel 312 comprises six first or upper article engaging structures RT1 in a 2 x 3 matrix or array, the first article engaging structures RT1 are substantially similar to the first article engaging structures RT 1 of Figure 1 albeit it the first article engaging structures RT 1 one of the engaging teeth 340 is configured to be integral with the one of the pair of marginal side portions 312A, 312B it is disposed adjacent to.

[0142] The first and second lower engaging panels 314A, 314B each comprise three second or lower article engaging structures RT1 in a 1 x 3 matrix or array, the second article engaging structures RT2 are substantially similar to the first article engaging structures RT2 of Figure 1 and will not be described in further detail.

[0143] The blank 310 may comprise a handle structure. The handle structure comprises at least one handle opening H1 defined in the upper engaging panel 312, the handle openings H1 are substantially similar to the handle openings H1 of the embodiment shown in Figure 1 and will not be described in further detail.

[0144] The handle structure may comprise at least one handle opening H2 defined in each of the first and second lower engaging panels 314A, 314B, the handle openings H2 are substantially similar to the handle openings H2 of the embodiment shown in Figure 1 and will not be described in further detail. A portion of the first lower engaging panel 314A may be configured to be disposed in overlapping relationship with a portion of the second lower engaging panel 314B when the first and second lower engaging panels 314A, 314B are folded about the fold lines 313A, 313B into their respective folded positions where they are in face-contacting arrangement with the upper engaging panel 312 as shown in Figures 8A and 8B. The handle openings H2 in the first lower engaging panel 314A and those H2 in the second lower engaging panel 314B are positioned and configured such that when the lower engaging panels 314A, 314B are in the folded positions, the handle openings H2 in the first engaging panel 314A may be disposed in general vertical registry with, but slightly offset from, the handle openings H1 in the upper engaging panel 312 and from handle openings H2 in the second lower engaging panel 314B as shown in Figure 8A. This slightly offset relationship will be adjusted automatically during the process of applying the carrier of Figures 8A and 8B to a group of articles. More particularly, the upper and lower shoulder panels 312A, 314C, 312B, 314D are folded downwards about their respective fold lines 311 A, 319A, 311 B, 319B in the application process. As a result of such folding process, the lower engaging panels 314A, 314B move or slide toward each other such that the handle openings H2 in the first lower engaging panel 314A and those H2 in the second lower engaging panel 314B are disposed in vertical registry with each other as well as with the handle openings H1 in the upper engaging panel 312. The sliding movement of the lower engaging panels 314A, 314B also affects the position of the second article retention structure RT2 with respect to that of the first article retention structure RT 1 as discussed herein below. The sliding movement of the lower engaging panels 314A, 314B during the folding process of the shoulder panels 312A, 314C, 312B, 314D are primarily caused by the structure of the carrier 390 or its blank 310 wherein the width W1 of each upper shoulder panel 312A, 312B is greater than the width W2 of each lower shoulder panel 314C, 314D. The width W1 may be equal to the distance between the fold lines 311 A, 313A or the distance between the fold lines 311 B, 313B while the width W2 may be equal to the distance between the fold lines 313A, 319A or the distance between the fold lines 313B, 319B. In the embodiment of the carrier or its blank designed for packing six PET bottles, the difference between the width W1 and the width W2 may be between 0.3mm and 07mm.

[0145] The second article retention structures RT2 in the first lower engaging panel 314A and those RT2 in the second lower engaging panel 314B are positioned and configured such that when the lower engaging panels 314A, 314B are in the folded positions, the second article retention structures RT2 in the first and second engaging panels 314A, 314B may be disposed in general vertical registry with, but slightly offset from, the respective first article retention structures RT1 in the upper engaging panel 312 as shown in Figure 8A. This slightly offset relationship will also be adjusted automatically during the process of applying the carrier of Figures 8A and 8B to a group of articles. As a result of such folding process of the shoulder panels 312A, 314C, 312B, 314D, the second article retention structures RT2 in the first and second lower engaging panels 314A, 314B are moved to positions where they are in vertical registry with the respective first article retention structures RT1 in the upper engaging panel 312. The blank 310 comprises at least one nonlinear tear line 316a, 316b, 318a, 318b. In the illustrated embodiment, the upper engaging panel 312 comprises six primary nonlinear tear lines 316a, 316b. A primary nonlinear tear line 316a, 316b may extend from each first article engaging structure RT1 in the upper engaging panel 312 towards an adjacent edge or perimeter of the upper engaging panel 312. The upper engaging panel 312 may comprise at least one first primary nonlinear tear line 316a and at least one second primary nonlinear tear line 316b, the second primary nonlinear tear line 316b being a mirror image of the first primary nonlinear tear line 316a. The first primary nonlinear tear line 316a may be associated with a first article retention structure RT1 at a first end of the upper engaging panel 312, whereas the second primary nonlinear tear line 316b may be associated with a first article retention structure RT1 at a second, opposing, end of the upper engaging panel 312. The illustrated embodiment comprises four first primary nonlinear tear lines 316a and two second primary nonlinear tear lines 316b. The intermediate or medial first article retention structures RT 1 are associated with a respective first primary nonlinear tear lines 316a (albeit in other embodiments they may be associated with a second primary nonlinear tear line 316b).

[0146] The primary nonlinear tear lines 316a, 316b are defined within one of the marginal side portions 312A, 312B. The first lower engaging panel 314A comprises three secondary nonlinear tear lines 318a, 318b. A secondary nonlinear tear line 318a, 318b may extend from each second article engaging structure RT2 in the first lower engaging panel 314A towards an adjacent edge or perimeter of the first lower engaging panel 314A. The secondary nonlinear tear lines 318a, 318b are defined within the marginal side portion 314C.

[0147] The second lower engaging panel 314B comprises three secondary nonlinear tear lines 318a, 318b. A secondary nonlinear tear line 318a, 318b may extend from each second article engaging structure RT2 in the second lower engaging panel 314B towards an adjacent edge or perimeter of the second lower engaging panel 314B. The secondary nonlinear tear lines 318a, 318b are defined within the marginal side portion 314D.

[0148] Each of the first and second lower engaging panels 314A, 314B may comprise at least one first secondary nonlinear tear line 318a and at least one second secondary nonlinear tear line 318b, the second secondary nonlinear tear line 318b being a mirror image of the first secondary nonlinear tear line 318a. The first secondary nonlinear tear line 318a may be associated with a second article retention structure RT2 at a first end of the respective one of the first and second lower engaging panels 314A, 314B, whereas the second secondary nonlinear tear line 318b may be associated with a second article retention structure RT2 at a second, opposing, end of the respective one of the first and second lower engaging panels 314A, 314B. The illustrated embodiment comprises four first secondary nonlinear tear lines 318a and two second secondary nonlinear tear lines 318b. The intermediate or medial second article retention structures RT2 are associated with a respective first secondary nonlinear tear lines 318a (albeit in other embodiments they may be associated with a second secondary nonlinear tear line 318b).

[0149] The nonlinear tear lines 316a, 316b, 318a, 318b may comprise a wavy or undulating shape. The nonlinear tear lines 316a, 316b, 318a, 318 may take the form of a plurality of cuts or perforations. The pattern of cuts of the primary nonlinear tear lines 316a, 316b may be different to the pattern of cuts of the secondary nonlinear tear lines 318a, 318b. In the illustrated embodiment, the pattern of cuts of the primary nonlinear tear lines 316a, 316b is the same as the pattern of cuts of the secondary nonlinear tear lines 318a, 318b each having one long cut and two short cuts. The secondary nonlinear tear lines 318a, 318b are arranged such that when disposed in vertical registry with the primary nonlinear tear lines 316a, 316b the long cut of the secondary nonlinear tear lines 318a, 318b underlies the two short cuts of the primary nonlinear tear lines 316a, 316b and the two short cuts of the secondary nonlinear tear lines 318a, 318b underlies the long cut of the primary nonlinear tear lines 316a, 316b.

[0150] The secondary nonlinear tear lines 318a, 318b may have a lower tear resistance than the primary nonlinear tear lines 316a, 316b, that is to say the secondary nonlinear tear lines 318a, 318b may be more easily torn than the primary nonlinear tear lines 316a, 316b, or may require less force to be torn.

[0151] Each of the primary nonlinear tear lines 316a, 316b, in the upper engaging panel 312, that extends from the first article engaging structures RT1 to one of the weakened lines 313A, 313B may be arranged to be continuous or contiguous with a respective one of the secondary nonlinear tear lines 318a, 318b, in the respective one of the first and second lower engaging panels 314A, 314B, that extends from the second article engaging structures RT2 to said weakened line 313A, 313B. In this way, the weakened lines 313A, 313B may be considered to separate, or bisect, a nonlinear tear line 316a / 318a, 316b / 318b extending substantially between a first article engaging structures RT1 in the upper engaging panel 312 and an adjacently disposed second article engaging structures RT2 in one of the first and second lower engaging panels 314A, 314B into two nonlinear segments 316a, 318a; 316b, 318b. The nonlinear segment 316a, 318a; 316b, 318b in a first one of the upper and lower engaging panels 312, 314A, 314B may be configured to be in vertical alignment or registry with the nonlinear segment 316a, 318a; 316b, 318b in a second one of the upper and lower engaging panels 312, 314A, 314B; in this way, a tear line 316a / 318a, 316b / 318b is formed in two overlapping plies of the engaging panel 312 / 314A, 312 / 314B.

[0152] The present disclosure provides a carrier 90; 190; 390 of the top engaging type having a retention or engaging structure RT1 , RT2, RT3, RT4, for engaging articles.

[0153] The present disclosure provides a top-engaging article carrier 90; 190 comprising a plurality of panels including a first engaging panel 12; 112 and a second engaging panel 14; 114 secured together in a face-contacting arrangement. The article carrier 90; 190 comprises a first tear line 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b formed on one of the first and second engaging panels 12, 14; 112, 114 and disposed between an article receptacle RT1 , RT2; RT3, RT4 defined in both the first and second engaging panels 12, 14; 112, 114 and an adjacent outer perimeter OP. The outer perimeter may be defined by a free edge 15, 17; 115, 117 or by a connected or hinged edge 13; 113 of the one engaging panel 12, 14; 112, 114. The first tear line 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b is spaced part from a glue area G of the one engaging panel 12, 14; 112, 114. The glue area G is glued to the other of the first and second engaging panels 12, 14; 112, 114.

[0154] The article carrier 90; 190 may comprise a second tear line 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b formed on the other one of the first and second engaging panels 12, 14; 112, 114 and disposed between the article receptacle RT1 , RT2; RT3, RT4 and an adjacent outer perimeter OP of said other engaging panel 12, 14; 112, 114. One of the first and second tear lines 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b may be coextensive with at least part of the other of the first and second tear lines 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b, wherein the second tear line 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b is spaced part from the glue area G.

[0155] The present disclosure also provides a top-engaging article carrier 90; 190 comprising a plurality of panels including a first engaging panel 12; 112; 412 and a second engaging panel 14; 114; 414 secured together in a face-contacting arrangement. The article carrier 90; 190 comprises a first tear line 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b; 416a, 416b, 418a, 418b formed on one of the first and second engaging panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 412, 414 and disposed between an article receptacle RT1 , RT2; RT3, RT4 defined in both the first and second engaging panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 412, 414 and an adjacent outer perimeter OP. The outer perimeter may be defined by a free edge 15, 17; 115, 117; 415, 417 or by a connected or hinged edge 13; 113; 413 of the one engaging panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 412, 414. The first tear line 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b; 416a, 416b, 418a, 418b may optionally intersect with a glue area G of the one engaging panel 12 / 14, 112 / 114; 412 / 414. The glue area G is glued to the other of the first and second engaging panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 412, 414. Figure 9 best illustrates such an embodiment wherein the first tear lines 416a each intersects with a respective one of the glue areas G of the engaging panel 412 and wherein the glue areas G of the engaging panel 412 are glued to the engaging panel 414. The article carrier 90; 190 may comprise a second tear line 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b; 416a, 416b, 418a, 418b formed on the other of the first and second engaging panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 412, 414 and disposed between the article receptacle RT1 , RT2; RT3, RT4 and an adjacent outer perimeter OP of the other engaging panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 412, 414. One of the first and second tear lines 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b; 416a, 416b, 418a, 418b is coextensive with at least part of the other of the first and second tear lines 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b; 416a, 416b, 418a, 418b, wherein the second tear line 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b; 416a, 416b, 418a, 418b may optionally intersect with the glue area G. Figure 9 best illustrates such an embodiment wherein the first tear lines 416a each intersects with a respective one of the glue areas G of the engaging panel 412 and wherein the glue areas G of the engaging panel 412 are glued to the engaging panel 414.

[0156] The present disclosure also provides a top-engaging carrier blank for forming an article carrier, the carrier blank comprising a tear line which includes a curved segment positioned to intersect an outer perimeter of the blank. An example of such a carrier blank is best illustrated in Figure 10 which may represent a portion of a blank including a pair of hingedly connected engaging panels 512, 514, or may alternatively represent respective portions of a pair of hingedly connected blanks. For the illustration purpose only, Figure 10 is described as showing a blank 510 which comprises a pair of first and second hingedly connected engaging panels 512, 514. The first engaging panel having 512 comprises a first article receptacle RT5 and a first tear line 516b disposed between the first article receptacle RT5 and a weakened line or hinge line in the form of a fold line 513. The fold line 513 defines a common linear segment (513) of the respective outer perimeters of the first and second engaging panels 512, 514. The first article receptacle RT5 comprises a plurality of engaging teeth 540 each having a radially extending cut 547 for serving as a fold line. Each engaging tooth 540 is separated from a next adjacent engaging tooth 540 by a radially extending cut line 541. The radially outer end of each radially extending cut line 541 is adjoined by or intersect another cut line 545 such that each pair of radially extending cut line 541 and the respective adjoining cut line 545 together provide a T-shaped cut or common separation element. The first tear line 516b includes a first curved segment which intersects the fold line 513 at an intersection "IS”. The first curved segment of the tear line 516b curves such that a notional tangential line "TL” in tangential contact with the first curved segment at the intersection "IS” is disposed perpendicularly to the fold line 513. Alternatively, the first curved segment of the tear line 516b may curve such that the center "CR” of the radius of curvature "RC” of the first curved segment 516b is disposed on the fold line 513. In some other embodiment, the center "CR” of the radius of curvature "RC” of the curved segment may be positioned on a notional extension of the fold line 513.

[0157] The second engaging panel 514 is hingedly connected to the first engaging panel 512 by the fold line 513 which defines a linear segment of the outer perimeter of the second engaging panel 514. The second engaging panel 514 comprising a second article receptacle RT6 and a second tear line 518b disposed between the second article receptacle RT6 and the fold line 513. The second tear line 518b includes a second curved segment which extends from the intersection "IS” of the first curved segment of the first tear line 516b and the fold line 513. The second curved segment 518b curves such that a notional tangential line "TL” in tangential contact with the second curved segment 518b at the intersection "IS” is identical to the notional tangential line in tangential contact with the first curved segment of the first tear line 516b and thus is disposed perpendicularly to the fold line 513. The first and second curved segments of the first and second tear lines 516b, 518b may be provided by a single continuously curved cut line. The second article receptacle RT6 comprises a plurality of engaging teeth 550 each having a radially extending cut 557 for serving as a fold line. Each engaging tooth 550 is separated from a next adjacent engaging tooth 550 by a radially extending cut line 551. The radially outer end of each radially extending cut line 551 is adjoined by or intersect another cut line 555 such that each pair of radially extending cut line 551 and the respective adjoining cut line 555 together provide a T-shaped cut or common separation element. The first article receptacle RT5 and / or the second article receptacle RT6 defines a notional center line X-X passing through the respective center of the first or second article receptacle RT5, RT6. The notional center line X-X is disposed perpendicularly to the fold line 513. As shown in Figure 10, the intersection "IS” is spaced apart from then notional center line X-X.

[0158] In some other embodiments of the disclosure, the linear segment of the outer perimeter of either engaging panel 512, 514 may be a free edge to which no other part of the blank is connected or joined.

[0159] The present disclosure provides a carrier blank 10; 110; 210; 310, 510 comprising at least one panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212; 312, 314A, 314B; 412, 414; 512, 514 for forming an engaging panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212; 312, 314A, 314B; 412, 414; 512, 514. The engaging panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212; 312, 314A, 314B; 412, 414; 512, 514 has an article receptacle RT1 , RT2; RT3, RT4, RT5, RT6 and a non-linear tear line 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b; 216a, 216b; 316a, 316b, 318a, 318b; 416a, 416b, 418a, 418b; 516b, 518b disposed between the receptacle RT1 , RT2; RT3, RT4; RT5, RT6 and an adjacent outer perimeter OP; 313A, 313B, 513 of the engaging panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212; 312, 314A, 314B; 412, 414; 512, 514. The receptacle RT1 , RT2; RT3, RT4, RT5, RT6 comprises a plurality of engaging teeth 40, 50; 140, 150; 240; 340, 350; 440, 450, 540, 550 including a pair of first and second adjacent teeth 40, 50; 140, 150; 240; 340, 350; 440, 450; 540, 550 having respective side edges defined by a common separation element. The common separation element may be a radially extending cutline, or notch or may be a "T” shaped cut having a radially extending portion 41 , 51 ; 141 , 151; 241 ; 341 , 351 ; 441 , 451 ; 541 , 551. The common separation element includes a radially extending portion 41 , 51 ; 141 , 151 ; 241 ; 341, 351 ; 441 , 451; 541 , 551. The radially extending portion 41 , 51 ; 141 , 151 ; 241 ; 341 , 351 ; 441 , 451 ; 541 , 551 may be a radial cut or notch.

[0160] The non-linear tear line 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b; 216a, 216b; 316a, 316b, 318a, 318b; 416a, 416b, 418a, 418b; 516b, 518b has an inner terminal end and may be directed to the receptacle RT1 , RT2; RT3, RT4; RT5, RT6.

[0161] The non-linear tear line 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b; 216a, 216b; 316a, 316b, 318a, 318b; 416a, 416b, 418a, 418b; 516b, 518b has an inner terminal end and may be directed to the engaging teeth 40, 50; 140, 150; 240; 340, 350; 440, 450; 540, 550 of the receptacle RT1 , RT2; RT3, RT4; RT5, RT6.

[0162] The non-linear tear line 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b; 216a, 216b; 316a, 316b, 318a, 318b; 416a, 416b, 418a, 418b; 516b, 518b has an inner terminal end that may be directed to the common separation element of the receptacle RT1, RT2; RT3, RT4, RT5, RT6. The outer perimeter OP of engaging panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212; 412, 414; 512, 514 may be a free edge, that is to say, free from hinged connection to other panels such as side or end panels. The other panels being divergently arranged with respect to the engaging panel 212; 312.

[0163] The engaging panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 312, 314A, 314B; 412, 414; 512, 514 may be a two-ply structure formed from a pair of connected panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 312, 314A, 314B; 412, 414; 512, 514 in face contacting relationship with each other so as to be parallel with each other, a portion of the outer perimeter OP of engaging panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 312, 314A, 314B; 412, 414; 512, 514 may be a hinged connection, the pair of connected panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 312, 314A, 314B; 412, 414; 512, 514 being folded 180° with respect to each other about the hinged connection.

[0164] The first and second teeth 40, 50; 140, 150; 240; 340, 350; 440, 450; 540, 550 may each have a proximal end defined at least in part by a circumferentially extending cut 43, 55; 145, 155; 243, 245; 343, 353, 355; 445, 455; 545, 555 or by outer ends of radially extending cutlines 41, 51 ; 141 , 151 ; 241 ; 341 , 351; 441 , 451 ; 541 , 551 defining side edges of the first and second teeth 40, 50; 140, 150; 240; 340, 350; 440, 450; 540, 550.

[0165] The article receptacle RT1 , RT2; RT3, RT4; RT5, RT6 may comprise an aperture A1 , A2, A5, A6, A8, A9 and a plurality of radial cutlines 41 , 51 ; 141 , 151 ; 241 ; 341 , 351 ; 441 , 451 ; 541 , 551 extending therefrom.

[0166] The common separation element may comprise a “T” shaped cut, and the radially extending portion 41 , 51 ; 141 , 151 ; 241 ; 341 , 351 ; 441 , 451 ; 541 , 551 comprises a radially extending component 51 ; 141 , 151 ; 241; 341 , 351 ; 441 , 451 ; 541 , 551 of the “T” shaped cut.

[0167] The common separation element further comprises a circumferentially extending component 55; 145, 155; 245; 355; 445, 455; 545, 555 and wherein the inner terminal end of the non-linear tear line 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b; 216a, 216b; 316a, 316b, 318a, 318b; 416a, 416b, 418a, 418b; 516b, 518b is directed to the circumferentially extending component 55; 145, 155; 245; 355; 445, 455; 545, 555 of the “T” shaped cut.

[0168] The present disclosure also provides a carrier blank 10; 110; 310; 410; 510 comprising a first engaging panel 12; 112; 312; 412; 512 and a second engaging panel 14; 114; 314A, 314B; 414; 514 connected to the first engaging panel 12; 112; 312; 412; 512 by a weakened line 13; 113; 313A, 313B; 413; 513. The weakened line 13; 113; 313A, 313B; 413; 513 may be a tear line or a fold line. The first panel 12; 112; 312; 412; 512 comprises a first article receptacle RT 1 ; RT3; RT5 and the second panel 14; 114; 314A, 314B; 414; 514 comprises a second article receptacle RT2; RT4; RT6. The blank 10; 110; 310; 410; 510 further comprises a tear line 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b; 316a, 316b, 318a, 318b; 416a, 416b, 418a, 418b; 516b, 518b extending from the first engaging panel 12; 112; 312; 412; 512 across the weakened line 13; 113; 313A, 313B; 413; 513 into the second engaging panel 14; 114; 314A, 314B; 414; 514. The tear line 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b; 316a, 316b, 318a, 318b; 416a, 416b, 418a, 418b; 516b, 518b is bisected by the weakened line 13; 113; 313A, 313B; 413; 513 into a first non-linear segment 16a, 16b; 116a, 116b; 316a, 316b; 416a, 416b; 516b and second nonlinear segment 18a, 18b; 118a, 118b; 318a, 318b; 418a, 418b; 518b each extending from the weakened line 13; 113; 313A, 313B; 413; 513 toward a respective one of the first and second article receptacles RT1 , RT2; RT3, RT4; RT5, RT6. The first non-linear segment 16a, 16b; 116a, 116b; 316a, 316b; 416a, 416b is formed of cuts of a first pattern while the second non-linear segment 18a, 18b; 118a, 118b; 318a, 318b; 418a, 418b is formed of cuts of a second pattern. The second pattern may be different from the first pattern.

[0169] The first and second non-linear segments 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b; 316a, 316b, 318a, 318b; 416a, 416b, 418a, 418b may be of different lengths.

[0170] The present disclosure provides a carrier blank 10; 110; 210; 310; 410 comprising an engaging panel 12, 14;

[0171] 112, 114; 212; 312, 314A, 314B; 412, 414 having an article receptacle RT1 , RT2; RT3, RT4 and a tear line 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b; 216a, 216b; 316a, 316b, 318a, 318b; 416a, 416b, 418a, 418b disposed between the receptacle RT1 , RT2; RT3, RT4 and an adjacent linear edge 13, 15, 17; 113, 115, 117; OP, 313A, 313B; 413, 415, 417 of an outer perimeter OP of the engaging panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 312, 314A, 314B; 412, 414. The receptacle RT1 , RT2; RT3, RT4 comprises a plurality of engaging teeth 40, 50; 140, 150; 240; 340, 350; 440, 450. The tear line 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b; 216a, 216b; 316a, 316b, 318a, 318b; 416a, 416b, 418a, 418b may include a linear segment which is disposed obliquely with respect to the linear edge 13, 15, 17;

[0172] 113, 115, 117; 313A, 313B; 413, 415, 417.

[0173] The present disclosure provides a carrier blank 10; 110; 210; 310; 410 comprising an engaging panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212; 312, 314A, 314B; 412, 414 having a plurality of article receptacles RT1 , RT2; RT3, RT4 and a tear line 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b; 216a, 216b; 316a, 316b, 318a, 318b; 416a, 416b, 418a, 418b disposed between at least one of the plurality of article receptacles RT1, RT2; RT3, RT4 and an adjacent outer perimeter OP of the engaging panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212; 312, 314A, 314B; 412, 414. The receptacle RT1 , RT2; RT3, RT4 comprises a plurality of engaging teeth 40, 50; 140, 150; 240; 340, 350; 440, 450. The tear line 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b; 216a, 216b; 316a, 316b, 318a, 318b; 416a, 416b, 418a, 418b includes a linear segment which is disposed obliquely with respect to a notional line N1 ; N2 passing through the respective centers of first and second ones of the plurality of article receptacles RT1 , RT2; RT3, RT4.

[0174] The present disclosure also provides a carrier blank 10; 110; 310; 410 comprising a first engaging panel 12; 112; 312; 412 and a second engaging panel 14; 114; 314A, 314B; 414 connected to the first engaging panel 12; 112; 312; 412 by a fold line 13; 113; 313A, 313B; 413. The first engaging panel 12; 112; 312; 412 comprises a first article receptacle RT1; RT3 and a first tear line 16a, 16b; 116a, 116b; 316a, 316b; 416a, 416b disposed between the first article receptacle RT1 ; RT3 and an adjacent outer perimeter OP of the first engaging panel 12; 112; 312; 412. The second panel 14; 114; 314A, 314B; 414 comprises a second article receptacle RT2; RT4 and a second tear line 18a, 18b; 118a, 118b; 318a, 318b; 418a, 418b disposed between the second article receptacle RT2; RT4 and an adjacent outer perimeter OP of the second engaging panel 14; 114; 314A, 314B; 414. The first and second tear lines 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b; 316a, 316b, 318a, 318b; 416a, 416b, 418a, 418b are configured and positioned such that they are coextensive, at least in part, when the first and second engaging panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 312, 314A, 314B; 412, 414 are folded about the fold line 13; 113; 313A, 313B; 413 into a face-contacting arrangement with each other. The first and second tear lines 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b; 316a, 316b, 318a, 318b; 416a, 416b, 418a, 418b are formed of cuts of different patterns. The first and second tear lines 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b; 316a, 316b, 318a, 318b; 416a, 416b, 418a, 418b are formed of integer number of discrete cuts. The first and second tear lines 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b; 316a, 316b, 318a, 318b; 416a, 416b, 418a, 418b may comprise different number of discrete cuts. The first and second tear lines 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b; 316a, 316b, 318a, 318b; 416a, 416b, 418a, 418b may comprise cuts having different lengths. The first and second tear lines 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b; 316a, 316b, 318a, 318b; 416a, 416b, 418a, 418b may comprise cuts arranged in different sequences or orders.

[0175] The first and second tear lines 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b; 316a, 316b, 318a, 318b; 416a, 416b, 418a, 418a, 418b extend from the fold line 13; 113; 313A, 313B; 413 toward the first and second article receptacles RT1 , RT2; RT3, RT4, respectively.

[0176] The present disclosure also provides a carrier blank 10; 110; 310; 410 comprising a first engaging panel 12; 112; 312; 412 and a second engaging panel 14; 114; 314A, 314B; 414 connected to the first engaging panel 12; 112; 312; 412 by a fold line 13; 113; 313A, 313B; 413. The first engaging panel 12; 112; 312; 412 comprises a first article receptacle RT1; RT3 and a first tear line 16a, 16b; 116a, 116b; 316a, 316b; 416a, 416b disposed between the first article receptacle RT1 ; RT3 and the fold line 13; 113; 313A, 313B; 413. The second panel 14; 114; 314A, 314B; 414 comprises a second article receptacle RT2; RT4 and a second tear line 18a, 18b; 118a, 118b; 318a, 318b; 418a, 418b disposed between the second article receptacle RT2; RT4 and the fold line 13; 113; 313A, 313B; 413. The first and second tear lines 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b; 316a, 316b, 318a, 318b; 416a, 416b, 418a, 418b are configured and positioned such that they are coextensive at least in part when the first and second engaging panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 312, 314A, 314B; 412, 414 are folded about the fold line 13; 113; 313A, 313B; 413 into a face-contacting arrangement with each other. The first and second tear lines 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b; 316a, 316b, 318a, 318b; 416a, 416b, 418a, 418b are of different lengths.

[0177] The first and second tear lines 16a, 16b, 18a, 18b; 116a, 116b, 118a, 118b; 316a, 316b, 318a, 318b; 416a, 416b, 418a, 418a, 418b extend from the fold line 13; 113; 313A, 313B; 413 toward the first and second article receptacles RT1 , RT2; RT3, RT4, respectively.

[0178] The present disclosure also provides a top-engaging article carrier and a carrier blank 390, each for packaging one or more articles. The article carrier or blank comprises a plurality of panels including a first engaging panel 312 which comprises: a first marginal portion 312A forming a first shoulder panel 312A; a first article receptacle RT1 defined in the first engaging panel 312; and a first tear line 316a, 316b disposed on the first marginal portion 312A which is disposed between the first article receptacle RT 1 and an adjacent outer perimeter 313A of the first engaging panel 312 or the composite engaging panel when it is formed from the carrier blank.

[0179] The plurality of panels may also include a second engaging panel 314A for disposition in a face-contacting arrangement with the first engaging panel 312 to form a composite engaging panel. The second engaging panel 314A may comprise a second marginal portion 314C forming a second shoulder panel 314C. The first shoulder panel 312A may be hingedly connected to the second shoulder panel 314C by a first fold line 313A. The second engaging panel 314A may further comprise a second article receptacle RT2 and a second tear line 318a, 318b formed on the second marginal portion 314C which is disposed between the second article receptacle RT2 and the first fold line 313A.

[0180] The plurality of panels may further include a third engaging panel 314B disposition in a face-to-face arrangement with the first engaging panel 312 to form the composite engaging panel. The third engaging panel 314B may comprise: a third marginal portion 314D forming a third shoulder panel 314D; a third article receptacle RT2, and a third tear line 318a, 318b on the third marginal portion 314D. The first engaging panel 312 may further comprise: a fourth marginal portion 312B forming a fourth shoulder panel 312B; a fourth article receptable RT1 , and a fourth tear line 316a, 316b. The third shoulder panel 314D may be hingedly connected to the fourth shoulder panel 312B by a second fold line 313B. The third tear line 318a, 318b may be disposed between the third article receptacle RT2 and the second fold line 313B. The fourth tear line 316a, 316b may be disposed between the fourth article receptacle RT1 and the second fold line 313B.

[0181] The second and third engaging panels 314A, 314B may be disposed in at least partial overlapping arrangement with each other when the composite panel is formed.

[0182] The present disclosure also provides a top-engaging article carrier 390 for packaging one or more articles. The article carrier 390 comprises an engaging panel 212; 312, 314A, 314B; 512, 514. The article carrier 390 further comprises at least one non-linear tear line 216a, 216b; 316a, 316b, 318a, 318b; 516b, 518b formed on the engaging panel 212; 312, 314A, 314B; 512, 514 and disposed between an article receptacle RT1 , RT2; RT5; RT5, RT6 defined in the engaging panel 212; 312, 314A, 314B; 512, 514 and an adjacent outer perimeter of the engaging panel. The article receptacle RT1 , RT2; RT5, RT6 comprises a plurality of engaging teeth 240; 340, 350; 550 including a pair of first and second adjacent teeth 240; 340, 350; 550 having respective side edges defined by a common separation element. The common separation element includes a radially extending portion 241 ; 341 , 351; 541 , 551 and wherein the at least one non-linear tear line 216a, 216b; 316a, 316b, 318a, 318b; 516b, 518b has an inner terminal end and is directed to the article receptacle RT1 , RT2; RT5, RT6.

[0183] The engaging panel 212; 312, 314A, 314B may comprise a first marginal portion 212A, 212B; 312A, 312B, 314C, 314D forming a first shoulder panel 212A, 212B; 312A, 312B, 314C, 314D and wherein the at least one nonlinear tear line 216a, 216b; 316a, 316b, 318a, 318b is defined in the first marginal portion 212A, 212B; 312A, 312B, 314C, 314D.

[0184] The first marginal portion 212A, 212B; 312A, 312B, 314C, 314D may be defined at least in part by a first marginal fold line 211 A, 211 B; 311 A, 311 B, 319A, 319B.

[0185] The first marginal fold line 211 A, 211 B; 311 A, 311 B, 319A, 319B may be interrupted by an article receptacle RT1 , RT2; RT5.

[0186] The engaging panel 212; 312, 314A, 314B may comprise a second marginal portion 212A, 212B; 312A, 312B, 314C, 314D forming a second shoulder panel 212A, 212B; 312A, 312B, 314C, 314D, the second marginal portion 212A, 212B; 312A, 312B, 314C, 314D disposed opposite the first marginal portion 212A, 212B; 312A, 312B, 314C, 314D and wherein the at least one non-linear tear line 216a, 216b; 316a, 316b, 318a, 318b is defined in the second marginal portion 212A, 212B; 312A, 312B, 314C, 314D. The second marginal portion 212A, 212B; 312A, 312B, 314C, 314D may be defined at least in part by a second marginal fold line 211 A, 211 B; 311 A, 311 B, 319A, 319B.

[0187] The second marginal fold line 211 A, 211 B; 311 A, 311 B, 319A, 319B may be interrupted by an article receptacle RT1 , RT2; RT5.

[0188] 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.

[0189] It will be recognized that as used herein, directional references such as "top", "bottom", "base”, "front", "back", "end", "side", "inner", "outer", "upper" and "lower" do not necessarily limit the respective panels to such orientation, but may merely serve to distinguish these panels from one another.

[0190] 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.

[0191] 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.

[0192] It should be understood that hinged connections and fold lines can each include elements that are formed in the substrate of the blank including perforations, a line of perforations, a line of short slits, a line of half-cuts, a single half-cut, a cutline, an interrupted cutline, slits, scores, embossed lines, debossed lines, any combination thereof, and the like. The elements can be dimensioned and arranged to provide the desired functionality. For example, a line of perforations can be dimensioned or designed with degrees of weakness to define a fold line and / or a severance line. The line of perforations can be designed to facilitate folding and resist breaking, to facilitate folding and facilitate breaking with more effort, or to facilitate breaking with little effort.

[0193] The phrases "in registry with” and "in vertical registry” 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” a second aperture in a second panel that is placed in an overlapping arrangement with the first panel, an edge of the aperture may extend along at least a portion of an edge of the second aperture and may be aligned, in the direction of the thickness of the first and second panels, with the second aperture.

Claims

CLAIMS1 . A carrier blank for forming an article carrier, the carrier blank comprising at least one panel, the at least one panel including a first engaging panel having a first article receptacle and a first non-linear tear line disposed between the article receptacle and an adjacent outer perimeter of the first engaging panel, the article receptacle comprising a plurality of engaging teeth including a pair of first and second adjacent teeth having respective side edges defined by a common separation element, wherein the common separation element includes a radially extending portion, and wherein the first non-linear tear line is directed to the article receptacle.2 A carrier blank according to claim 1 , wherein the radially extending portion is a radial cut.3 A carrier blank according to claim 1 , wherein the common separation element is a radially extending cutline.4 A carrier blank according to claim 1 , wherein the common separation element is a “T” shaped cut having the radially extending portion.5 A carrier blank according to claim 1 , wherein the non-linear tear line has an inner terminal end which is directed to the engaging teeth of the article receptacle.6 A carrier blank according to claim 1 , wherein the non-linear tear line has an inner terminal end which is directed to the common separation element.7 A carrier blank according to claim 1 , wherein the outer perimeter of the first engaging panel is a free edge to which no other part of the carrier blank is connected.8 A carrier blank for forming an article carrier, the carrier blank comprising a first engaging panel and a second engaging panel connected to the first engaging panel by a weakened line, the first panel comprising a first article receptacle, the second panel comprising a second article receptacle, the blank further comprising a tear line extending from the first engaging panel across the weakened line into the second engaging panel, wherein the tear line is bisected by the weakened line into a pair of first and second non-linear segments each extending from the weakened line toward a respective one of the first and second article receptacles.9 A carrier blank according to claim 8, wherein the weakened line is a tear line.10 A carrier blank according to claim 8, wherein the weakened line is a fold line.11 A carrier blank according to claim 8, wherein the first non-linear segment is formed of cuts of a first pattern and the second non-linear segment is formed of cuts of a second pattern, the second pattern is different to the first pattern.12 A carrier blank according to claim 8, wherein the first and second non-linear segments are of different lengths.13 A carrier blank for forming an article carrier, the carrier blank comprising a first engaging panel having a first article receptacle and a first tear line disposed between the first article receptacle and an adjacent linear edge of an outer perimeter of the first engaging panel, wherein the first article receptacle comprises a plurality of engaging teeth, wherein the first tear line includes a first curved segment which intersects the linear edge at an intersection,the first curved segment curves such that a notional tangential line in tangential contact with the first curved segment at the intersection is disposed perpendicularly to the linear edge.

14. A carrier blank according to claim 13, further comprising a second engaging panel connected to the first engaging panel by a weakened line which defines said linear edge of the first engaging panel, the second engaging panel comprising a second article receptacle and a second tear line disposed between the second article receptacle and the weakened line, wherein the second tear line includes a second curved segment which extends from said intersection of the first curved segment and the linear edge, the second curved segment curves such that a notional tangential line in tangential contact with the second curved segment at the intersection is disposed perpendicularly to the weakened line.

15. A carrier blank according to claim 14 wherein the first and second curved segments are provided by a single continuously curved cut line.

16. A carrier blank according to claim 13, wherein the first article receptacle defines a notional center line passing through a center of the first article receptacle and disposed perpendicularly to the linear edge, and wherein said intersection is spaced apart from the notional center line.

17. A carrier blank for forming an article carrier, the carrier blank comprising a first engaging panel having an first article receptacle and a first tear line disposed between the first article receptacle and an adjacent linear edge of an outer perimeter of the first engaging panel, wherein the first article receptacle comprises a plurality of engaging teeth, wherein the first tear line includes a first curved segment which intersects the linear edge, the first curved segment curves such that a center of a radius of curvature of the first curved segment is disposed on the linear edge or on a notional extension of the linear edge.

18. A carrier blank according to claim 17, further comprising a second engaging panel connected to the first engaging panel by a weakened line which defines said linear edge of the first engaging panel, the second engaging panel comprising a second article receptacle and a second tear line disposed between the second article receptacle and the weakened line, wherein the second tear line includes a second curved segment which extends from an intersection of the first curved segment and the linear edge, the second curved segment curves such that a center of a radius of curvature of the second curved segment is disposed on the weakened line or on a notional extension of the weakened line.

19. A carrier blank according to claim 18 wherein the first and second curved segments are provided by a single continuously curved cut line.

20. A carrier blank according to claim 17, wherein the first article receptacle defines a notional center line passing through a center of the first article receptacle and disposed perpendicularly to the linear edge, and wherein an intersection of the first curved segment and the linear edge is spaced apart from the notional center line.

Images