Carrier for product containers

Abstract

A carrier for holding one or more product containers, the carrier includes a lower tray having a plurality of panels extending at least partially around an interior of the lower tray for at least partially receiving the one or more product containers, and an upper construct positioned above the lower tray for engaging the one or more product containers.

Description

Atty. Docket No. 23202.1206WO2Client Docket No. 9206-PCTCARRIER FOR PRODUCT CONTAINERSCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 714,487 filed on October 31, 2024.INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0002] The disclosure of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 714,487, which was filed on October 31, 2024 is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes as if presented herein in their entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The disclosure relates to packaging systems for securing containers during transport and storage. More particularly, the disclosure pertains to carriers with upper constructs and lower trays configured to engage containers using locking tabs and openings.BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0004] The present disclosure relates to blanks, trays, upper constructs, and associated features and methods for forming a carrier for product containers.SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0005] According to one aspect, the disclosure may be generally directed to a carrier for holding one or more product containers. The carrier may comprise a lower tray comprising a base panel foldably coupled to a lower side panel. The lower side panel may extend at least partially around an interior of the lower tray. The interior may be sized and shaped to at least partially receive the one or more product containers. The carrier may further comprise an upper construct disposed above the lower tray and engaged with the one or more product containers.

[0006] In some embodiments, the upper construct may include a top panel that may be engaged with a top surface of each of the one or more product containers via an adhesive. In various embodiments, each of the one or more product containers may include a respective upper panelAtty. Docket No. 23202.1206WO2Client Docket No. 9206-PCT having a respective access tab and the upper construct may be engaged with each respective access tab via an adhesive. In some embodiments, each respective access tab may be at least partially defined by a line of weakening enabling the respective access tab to be detached from the respective upper panel when the upper construct may be removed.

[0007] In various embodiments, the lower side panel may include first and second lower side panels each connected to first and second lower end panels to form a continuous lower side panel. In some embodiments, the continuous lower side panel may be engaged with the one or more product containers via a tension force within the continuous lower side panel. In various embodiments, the continuous lower side panel may include a plurality of end flaps connecting the first and second lower side panels to the first and second lower end panels. In some embodiments, the plurality of end flaps may at least partially define a plurality of openings in the continuous lower side panel, wherein an opening of the plurality of openings may be positioned at each comer of the lower tray. In various embodiments, the upper construct may include a top panel having a plurality of locking tabs, wherein each locking tab may be foldably attached to the top panel. In some embodiments, the top panel may be engaged with the one or more product containers via the plurality of locking tabs, wherein each of the one or more product containers may include a respective upper panel defining an opening and wherein a locking tab of the plurality of locking tabs may be received through each respective opening.

[0008] In various embodiments, the upper construct may include a top tray comprising a top panel foldably coupled to an upper side panel, the upper side panel extending at least partially around an interior of the upper tray, the interior sized and shaped to at least partially receive the one or more product containers. In some embodiments, the continuous upper side panel may be engaged with the one or more product containers via a tension force within the continuous upper side panel. In various embodiments, the continuous upper side panel may include a plurality of upper end flaps and the plurality of upper end flaps may at least partially define a plurality of openings in the continuous upper side panel, wherein an opening of the plurality of openings may be positioned at each comer of the upper tray.Atty. Docket No. 23202.1206WO2Client Docket No. 9206-PCT

[0009] According to another aspect, the disclosure may be generally directed to a combination of blanks for holding one or more product containers. The combination may comprise a lower tray blank for forming a lower tray comprising a base panel foldably coupled to a lower side panel. The lower side panel may extend at least partially around an interior of the lower tray. The interior may be sized and shaped to at least partially receive the one or more product containers. The combination may further comprise an upper blank for forming an upper construct disposed above the lower tray and engaged with the one or more product containers.

[0010] In some embodiments, the upper construct blank may include a top panel that may be configured to be engaged with a top surface of each of the one or more product containers via an adhesive. In various embodiments, each of the one or more product containers may be configured to include a respective upper panel having a respective access tab and the upper construct blank may be configured to be engaged with each respective access tab via an adhesive. In some embodiments, each respective access tab may be at least partially defined by a line of weakening enabling the respective access tab to be detached from the respective upper panel when the carrier may be assembled.

[0011] In various embodiments, the lower side panel may be defined by first and second lower side panels each connected to first and second lower end panels by fold lines to form a continuous lower side panel upon assembly. In some embodiments, the continuous lower side panel, when formed, may be configured to be engaged with the one or more product containers via a tension force within the continuous lower side panel. In various embodiments, the continuous lower side panel may include a plurality of end flaps configured to connect the first and second lower side panels to the first and second lower end panels. In some embodiments, the plurality of end flaps may be configured to at least partially define a plurality of openings in the continuous lower side panel upon assembly, an opening positioned at each comer of the lower tray. In various embodiments, the upper construct blank may include a top panel having a plurality of locking tabs defined by fold lines, each locking tab foldably attached to the top panel. In some embodiments, the top panel may be configured to be engaged with the one or more product containers via the plurality of locking tabs, each container including a respective opening in an associated panel, and a locking tab may be received through each respective opening upon assembly.Atty. Docket No. 23202.1206WO2Client Docket No. 9206-PCT

[0012] In various embodiments, the upper construct blank may include a top tray blank comprising a top panel foldably coupled to an upper side panel, the upper side panel, upon assembly, extending at least partially around an interior of the upper tray, the interior sized and shaped to at least partially receive the one or more product containers. In some embodiments, the continuous upper side panel, when formed, may be configured to be engaged with the one or more product containers via a tension force within the continuous upper side panel. In various embodiments, the continuous upper side panel may include a plurality of upper end flaps and the plurality of upper end flaps, upon assembly, may be configured to at least partially define a plurality of openings in the continuous upper side panel, an opening positioned at each comer of the upper tray.

[0013] According to another aspect, the disclosure may be generally directed to a method of forming a carrier for holding one or more product containers. The method may comprise forming a lower tray comprising a base panel foldably coupled to a lower side panel. The lower side panel may extend at least partially around an interior of the lower tray. The interior may be sized and shaped to at least partially receive the one or more product containers. The method may further comprise disposing an upper construct above the lower tray and engaging the upper construct with the one or more product containers.

[0014] In some embodiments, the method may further comprise engaging a top panel of the upper construct with a top surface of each of the one or more product containers via an adhesive. In various embodiments, each of the one or more product containers may include a respective upper panel having a respective access tab, the method further comprising engaging the upper construct with each respective access tab via an adhesive. In some embodiments, each respective access tab may be at least partially defined by a line of weakening enabling the respective access tab to be detached from the respective upper panel when the upper construct may be removed. In various embodiments, the lower side panel may include first and second lower side panels and forming the lower tray may comprise connecting each of the first and second lower end panels to form a continuous lower side panel.Atty. Docket No. 23202.1206WO2Client Docket No. 9206-PCT

[0015] In some embodiments, the method may further comprise engaging the continuous lower side panel with the one or more product containers via a tension force within the continuous lower side panel. In various embodiments, the continuous lower side panel may include a plurality of end flaps connecting the first and second lower side panels to the first and second lower end panels. In some embodiments, the plurality of end flaps may at least partially define a plurality of openings in the continuous lower side panel, wherein an opening of the plurality of openings may be positioned at each comer of the lower tray. In various embodiments, the upper construct may include a top panel having a plurality of locking tabs, wherein each locking tab may be foldably attached to the top panel. In some embodiments, the top panel may be engaged with the one or more product containers via the plurality of locking tabs, wherein each of the one or more product containers may include a respective upper panel defining an opening and a locking tab of the plurality of locking tabs may be received through each respective opening.

[0016] In various embodiments, the upper construct may include a top tray comprising a top panel foldably coupled to an upper side panel, the upper side panel extending at least partially around an interior of the upper tray, the interior sized and shaped to at least partially receive the one or more product containers. In some embodiments, the continuous upper side panel may be engaged with the one or more product containers via a tension force within the continuous upper side panel. In various embodiments, the continuous upper side panel may include a plurality of upper end flaps and the plurality of upper end flaps may at least partially define a plurality of openings in the continuous upper side panel, wherein an opening of the plurality of openings may be positioned at each comer of the upper tray.

[0017] Those skilled in the art will appreciate the above stated advantages and other advantages and benefits of various additional embodiments reading the following detailed description of the embodiments with reference to the below-listed drawing figures. It is within the scope of the present disclosure that the above-discussed aspects be provided both individually and in various combinations.

[0018] Those skilled in the art will appreciate the above stated advantages and other advantages and benefits of various additional embodiments reading the following detailed description of the embodiments with reference to the below-listed drawing figures.Atty. Docket No. 23202.1206WO2Client Docket No. 9206-PCTBRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0019] According to common practice, the various features of the drawings discussed below are not necessarily drawn to scale. Dimensions of various features and elements in the drawings may be expanded or reduced to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the disclosure.

[0020] FIG. 1 illustrates a carrier including an upper construct, a lower tray, and a container secured therein.

[0021] FIG. 2 illustrates a partial view of the upper construct and container, showing the relationship between the panels and the access panel.

[0022] FIG. 3 illustrates an enlarged view of the upper construct and centred panel.

[0023] FIG. 4A illustrates a blank for forming the upper construct.

[0024] FIG. 4B illustrates details of folding and glue locations for the blank of FIG. 4A.

[0025] FIG. 5 illustrates a blank for forming a lower tray with attachment end flaps.

[0026] FIG. 6 illustrates a second embodiment of a carrier including an upper construct with locking tab features and a lower tray.

[0027] FIG. 7 illustrates the interaction between the upper construct and the container in the second embodiment.

[0028] FIG. 8 illustrates locking tabs of the upper construct securing the container in the second embodiment of the carrier.

[0029] FIG. 9A illustrates a blank for forming the central panel of the upper construct in the second embodiment.

[0030] FIG. 9B illustrates locking tab and aperture features on the blank of the second embodiment.

[0031] FIG. 10 illustrates a third embodiment of a carrier including an upper construct and a lower tray with cutouts and openings.Atty. Docket No. 23202.1206WO2Client Docket No. 9206-PCT

[0032] FIG. 11 illustrates details of flaps, side panels, and attachment features of the upper construct in the third embodiment.

[0033] Corresponding parts are designated by corresponding reference numbers throughout the drawings.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

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

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

[0036] In the following description, various embodiments will be described. For purposes of explanation, specific configurations and details are set forth in order to provide a thorough understanding of the embodiments. However, it will also be apparent to one skilled in the art that the embodiments may be practiced without the specific details. Furthermore, well-known features may be omitted or simplified in order not to obscure the embodiment being described.

[0037] The present carrier system provides a comprehensive packaging solution that securely holds multiple product containers while offering convenient handling and access features. The system may be particularly beneficial for beverage packaging applications where consumers need to transport multiple containers as a unit while retaining the ability to remove individual containersAtty. Docket No. 23202.1206WO2Client Docket No. 9206-PCT as needed. The carrier may accommodate various container types including aluminum cans, plastic bottles, and glass jars through its adaptable design structure.

[0038] The carrier system may comprise two primary components that work together to create a secure containment structure. A lower tray may provide foundational support by receiving and cradling the bottom portions of the product containers within its interior space. An upper construct may be positioned above the lower tray and may engage with the top portions of the containers through various attachment mechanisms. This dual-component approach may allow the carrier to distribute structural loads effectively while maintaining container accessibility.

[0039] The system may offer multiple engagement methods between the upper construct and the product containers depending on the specific application requirements. In some embodiments, the upper construct may utilize mechanical locking tabs that engage with container features to create a friction-based connection. Alternative embodiments may employ adhesive attachment between the upper construct and container access tabs, providing a removable connection that facilitates easy container access. Additional embodiments may feature an upper construct that forms a tray-like structure similar to the lower component, creating a comprehensive enclosure around the container arrangement.

[0040] FIG. 1 illustrates a perspective view of a carrier 100 for holding one or more product containers 106. As shown in FIG. 1, the carrier 100 may comprise a lower tray 104 and an upper construct 102 positioned above the lower tray 104. The lower tray 104 may comprise a base panel (not shown in Fig. 1) foldably coupled to a lower side panel 116a, where the lower side panel 116a may extend at least partially around an interior of the lower tray 104. The interior may be sized and shaped to at least partially receive the one or more product containers 106. The upper construct 102 may be disposed above the lower tray 104 and may be engaged with the one or more product containers 106 via an adhesive or other suitable system of engagement. The upper construct 102 may include a central panel 108 that may be positioned over the product containers 106. A top panel 110 may be visible on each product container 106, and each top panel 110 may include an access panel 114 and a fold tab 112. The lower tray 104 may further include a lower end panel 118a that may extend upwardly from the base panel, and lower end flaps 120a may be foldably connected to the lower end panel 118a. An aperture 122 may beAtty. Docket No. 23202.1206WO2Client Docket No. 9206-PCT formed in the top panel 110 of the product container 106 when the upper construct 102 is lifted up (e.g., removed) from the carrier 100 and the corresponding access panels 114 are removed from the respective top panels 110. The aperture 122 can provide an opening or finger hole that can allow a user to comfortably lift the product container 106 out from the lower tray 104.

[0041] The lower tray 104 can have rounded edges that each closely contact and secure the lower tray to the product containers 106 via tension within lower side panel 116a. The rounded edges can include a lower comer openings 124 that provide a relief area for portions of the product containers 106.

[0042] FIG. 2 illustrates a detailed view of the upper construct 102 and its engagement with the product containers 106 as the upper construct 102 is removed. As shown in FIG. 2, the central panel 108 may be positioned in overlying relation to the product containers 106. Each product container 106 may include a respective top panel 110 with a respective access panel 114 and fold tab 112. The fold tab 112 may be at least partially defined by a line of weakening that may enable the fold tab 112 to be manipulated for user access. The access panel 114 may be defined by one or more lines of weakening that enable the upper construct 102 to be held in place during transportation and removed when the upper construct is pulled upward as shown in FIG.2. The access panel 114 may be removed from the product container 106 when the upper construct 102 is lifted away from the rest of the carrier 100 leaving behind the aperture 122 on the top panel 110 held with e.g., adhesive. The aperture 122 may be positioned to allow visibility of the product containers 106 or to facilitate handling of the product container 106.

[0043] FIG. 3 illustrates an assembled view of the carrier 100 showing the relationship between the upper construct 102 and the lower tray 104. As shown in FIG. 3, the central panel 108 of the upper construct 102 may be positioned above the product containers 106 that may be held within the lower tray 104. The lower side panel 116a and lower end panel 118a may form continuous sidewalls that may extend upwardly from the base panel (not shown in FIG. 3, see Fig. 5) to create the interior space of the lower tray 104. The product containers 106 may be at least partially received within this interior space, with their lower portions supported by the base panel and their upper portions engaged by the upper construct 102.Atty. Docket No. 23202.1206WO2Client Docket No. 9206-PCT

[0044] FIG. 4 A illustrates a plan view of a blank 400 for forming the upper construct 102. The blank 400 can include a longitudinal axis LI and a lateral axis L2. As shown in FIG. 4 A, the blank 400 may have an exterior surface 402 and may include the central panel 108. The blank 400 may be formed from a single piece of material that may be used to create the upper construct 102. The central panel 108 may be configured to overlie the product containers 106 when the carrier 100 is assembled.

[0045] FIG. 4B illustrates a transparent view of a detailed portion of the blank 400 showing connection features. As shown in FIG. 4B, the central panel 108 may be connected to a fold tab 112 of an underlying product container through an adhesive location 404. The fold tab 112 may have a curved or scalloped edge configuration that may facilitate folding and engagement with the product containers 106. The access panel 114 may be defined by one or more lines of weakening, positioned adjacent to the glue location 404 and may be adhered to an interior surface of the central panel 108. The glue location 404 may provide a means for securing the access panel 114 to the centred panel 108 during assembly of the carrier 100.

[0046] FIG. 5 illustrates a plan view of a blank 500 for forming the lower tray 104. The blank 500 can be described with a longitudinal axis LI and a lateral axis L2. As shown in FIG. 5, the blank 500 may have an exterior surface 502 and may include multiple panels, including base panel 504, and flaps arranged in a cross-like configuration. The blank 500 may include lower side panels 116a and 116b that may be positioned opposite each other, and lower end panels 118a and 118b that may be positioned opposite each other. Lower side panel 116a can be foldably connected to the base panel 504 at longitudinal fold line 510a. Similarly, lower side panel 116b can be foldably connected to the base panel 504 at longitudinal fold line 510b. Lower end panel 118a can be foldably connected to the base panel 504 at lateral fold line 512a. Similarly, lower end panel 118b can be foldably connected to the base panel 504 at lateral fold line 512b. Lower end flaps 120a, 120b, 120c, and 120d may be foldably connected to the respective panels. Lower attachment end flaps 506a, 506b, 506c, 506d, 508a, 508b, 508c, and 508d may be provided for securing the panels together during assembly. The blank 500 may be configured so that when folded, the lower side panels 116a, 116b and lower end panels 118a, 118b may form a continuous lower side panel that may extend at least partially around the interior of the lower tray 104.Atty. Docket No. 23202.1206WO2Client Docket No. 9206-PCT

[0047] FIG. 6 illustrates a perspective view of a carrier 600 according to a second embodiment. As shown in FIG. 6, the carrier 600 may comprise the lower tray 104 and an upper construct 602. The upper construct 602 may include a central panel 608 that may have locking tabs 604. The lower tray 104 may include the lower side panel 116a and lower end panel 118b, and may contain product containers 106. An aperture 122 may be formed in a top panel of the product containers 106 that the locking tabs engage with (note that perimeters 604 of the locking tabs are shown in FIG. 6 as the locking tabs themselves are below the surface of the central panel 608). For example, the aperture 122 may be preformed prior to assembly of the carrier 600 or the aperture 122 may be formed when the locking tabs engage the product containers 106. The upper construct 602 may be engaged with the product containers 106 through a locking mechanism rather than adhesive attachment.

[0048] FIG. 7 illustrates a detailed view of the upper construct 602 and its engagement mechanism. As shown in FIG. 7, the central panel 608 may include the perimeter 604 around locking tabs (not shown in FIG. 7), and the aperture 122 of the product container 106 may be visible through an opening formed within the perimeter 604. The product containers 106 may be positioned beneath the upper construct 602, and the locking mechanism may provide secure engagement between the upper construct 602 and the containers 106 without requiring adhesives.

[0049] FIG. 8 illustrates the carrier 600 in a partially removed position. As shown in FIG. 8, the upper construct 602 may include the central panel 608 with locking tabs 802a and 802b visibly removed from respective product containers 106. Each product container 106 may include the top panel 110, and the locking tabs 802a, 802b may be received through the aperture 122 and tucked under in face-to-face contact within the top panels 110 during assembly of the carrier 600, avoiding the use of adhesives.

[0050] FIG. 9A illustrates a plan view of a blank 900 for forming the upper construct 602. As shown in FIG. 9A, the blank 900 may have an exterior surface 902 and may include the central panel 608. The central panel 608 includes a plurality of locking features and each locking feature can include first and second locking tabs 802a, 802b. The locking tabs 802a, 802b are defined by the perimeter 604 and are foldably attached to the central panel 608. The blank 900 may beAtty. Docket No. 23202.1206WO2Client Docket No. 9206-PCT configured with pre-formed features that may enable the formation of locking tabs when the blank 900 is processed.

[0051] FIG. 9B is a transparent view of a detailed portion of the blank 900 with locking tab features shown. As shown in FIG. 9B, the central panel 608 may include the perimeter 604 around locking tabs 802a, 802b, and locking tabs 802a and 802b may be at least partially defined within the central panel 608. The aperture 122 may be formed in the top panel of an underlying product container 106. The locking tabs 802a, 802b may be foldably attached to the central panel 608 and may be configured to be pushed through the aperture 122 to engage with openings in the product containers 106. For example, during assembly of the carrier 600, the locking tabs 802a, 802b can be detached from each other, folded down into the aperture 122, and then tucked under the upper construct 602 in face-to-face contact with the top panel 110 of the underlying product container 106.

[0052] FIG. 10 illustrates a perspective view of a carrier 1000 according to a third embodiment. As shown in FIG. 10, the carrier 1000 may comprise the lower tray 104 and an upper construct 1002. The upper construct 1002 may include a central panel 1008 with perimeters of cutouts 1010a and 1010b. The product containers 106 may be held within the lower tray 104, and each container 106 may include the top panel 110. The lower tray 104 may include the lower side panel 116a and lower end panel 118a. A tension force within the lower side panel 116a may engage the upper construct 1002 with the product containers 106. Upper comer openings 1024 may be formed in the upper construct 1002, and lower comer openings 124 may be formed in the lower tray 104. Upper end flaps 1020a may be provided on the upper construct 1002.

[0053] FIG. 11 illustrates a plan view of a blank 1100 for forming the upper construct 1002 of the third embodiment. As shown in FIG. 11, the blank 1100 may include the central panel 1008 with perimeters of cutouts 1010a and 1010b. Upper side panels 1015a and 1015b may be foldably connected to the central panel 1008, and lower end panels 1018a and 1018b may also be foldably connected to the central panel 1008. Upper attachment end flaps 1106a, 1106b, 1106c, 1106d, 1108a, 1108b, 1108c, and 1108d may be provided for securing the panels together during assembly. The blank 1100 may be configured to form an upper construct 1002 that mayAtty. Docket No. 23202.1206WO2Client Docket No. 9206-PCT function as an upper tray with side panels that may engage the upper portions of the product containers 106.

[0054] The disclosed carrier system provides a practical solution for packaging and displaying multiple product containers in an organized, accessible manner. The system comprises two main components that work together: a lower tray that cradles and supports the bottom portions of containers such as beverage cans or bottles, and an upper construct that engages the top portions of the containers to maintain their arrangement. This dual-component design may allow consumers and retailers to handle multiple containers as a single unit while providing the flexibility to access individual containers when needed.

[0055] The lower tray may be formed from a flat blank that folds into a three-dimensional structure with a bottom panel and upright side walls. The interior space created by these walls may be sized to accommodate various container arrangements, such as a 2x2 configuration of four containers. The upper construct may take several different forms depending on the specific application requirements. In one embodiment, the upper construct may mirror the lower tray's design with panels that partially enclose the upper portions of the containers while providing openings for visibility and access. Alternative embodiments may employ locking tabs that engage directly with container features, or adhesive attachment systems that bond to container surfaces.

[0056] The carrier system may offer significant advantages in retail environments where product visibility and ease of handling are important considerations. The upper construct may be designed for selective removal, allowing consumers to lift away the top component to access individual containers while leaving the lower tray intact to hold remaining products. This functionality may enable both bulk purchasing and individual selection from the same package. The system may accommodate various container types and sizes while utilizing standard packaging materials such as paperboard or cardboard, making it compatible with existing manufacturing and distribution infrastructure.

[0057] In some embodiments, a lower or interior surface of the upper construct can be adhered to the access tab of the respective product container therebelow. In this regard, when the upper construct is removed from the product container(s), the respective access tab thereof canAtty. Docket No. 23202.1206WO2Client Docket No. 9206-PCT separate from the respective product container, providing a convenient location through which a user can engage the handle features of the respective product container.

[0058] A carrier according to the third exemplary embodiment is thus provided with advantages and functionality similar to that described above with respect to the first exemplary embodiment.

[0059] It will be understood that one or more of the blanks, product containers, trays, upper constructs, and carriers, and portions thereof, can have a different arrangement and / or configuration without departing from the disclosure.

[0060] Any of the features of the various embodiments of the disclosure can be combined with, replaced by, or otherwise configured with other features of other embodiments of the disclosure without departing from the scope of this disclosure.

[0061] In general, the blank may be constructed from paperboard having a caliper so that it is heavier and more rigid than ordinary paper. The blank can also be constructed of other materials, such as cardboard, or any other material having properties suitable for enabling the carrier to function at least generally as described above. The blank can be coated with, for example, a clay coating. The clay coating may then be printed over with product, advertising, and other information or images. The blanks may then be coated with a varnish to protect information printed on the blanks. The blanks may also be coated with, for example, a moisture barrier layer, on either or both sides of the blanks. The blanks can also be laminated to or coated with one or more sheetlike materials at selected panels or panel sections.

[0062] As an example, a tear line can include: a slit that extends partially into the material along the desired line of weakness, and / or a series of spaced apart slits that extend partially into and / or completely through the material along the desired line of weakness, or various combinations of these features. As a more specific example, one type tear line is in the form of a series of spaced apart slits that extend completely through the material, with adjacent slits being spaced apart slightly so that a nick (e.g., a small somewhat bridging-like piece of the material) is defined between the adjacent slits for typically temporarily connecting the material across the tear line. The nicks are broken during tearing along the tear line. The nicks typically are a relatively small percentage of the tear line, and alternatively the nicks can be omitted from or tom in a tear lineAtty. Docket No. 23202.1206WO2Client Docket No. 9206-PCT such that the tear line is a continuous cut line. That is, it is within the scope of the present disclosure for each of the tear lines to be replaced with a continuous slit, or the like. For example, a cut line can be a continuous slit or could be wider than a slit without departing from the present disclosure.

[0063] In accordance with the exemplary embodiments, a fold line can be any substantially linear, although not necessarily straight, form of weakening that facilitates folding therealong. More specifically, but not for the purpose of narrowing the scope of the present disclosure, fold lines include: a score line, such as lines formed with a blunt scoring knife, or the like, which creates a crushed or depressed portion in the material along the desired line of weakness; a cut that extends partially into a material along the desired line of weakness, and / or a series of cuts that extend partially into and / or completely through the material along the desired line of weakness; and various combinations of these features. In situations where cutting is used to create a fold line, typically the cutting will not be overly extensive in a manner that might cause a reasonable user to incorrectly consider the fold line to be a tear line.

[0064] The above embodiments may be described as having one or more panels adhered together by glue during erection of the carrier embodiments. The term “glue” is intended to encompass all manner of adhesives commonly used to secure carrier panels in place.

[0065] Any of the blanks, containers, or other constructs of this disclosure may optionally include one or more features that alter the effect of microwave energy during the heating or cooking of a food item that is associated with the tray or other construct. For example, the blank, tray, container, or other construct may be formed at least partially from one or more microwave energy interactive elements (hereinafter sometimes referred to as “microwave interactive elements”) that promote heating, browning and / or crisping of a particular area of the food item, shield a particular area of the food item from micro wave energy to prevent overcooking thereof, or transmit microwave energy towards or away from a particular area of the food item. Each microwave interactive element comprises one or more microwave energy interactive materials or segments arranged in a particular configuration to absorb microwave energy, transmit microwave energy, reflect microwave energy, or direct microwave energy, as needed or desired for a particular construct and food item.Atty. Docket No. 23202.1206WO2Client Docket No. 9206-PCT

[0066] In the case of a susceptor or shield, the microwave energy interactive material may comprise an electroconductive or semiconductive material, for example, a vacuum deposited metal or metal alloy, or a metallic ink, an organic ink, an inorganic ink, a metallic paste, an organic paste, an inorganic paste, or any combination thereof.

[0067] The foregoing description of the disclosure illustrates and describes various exemplary embodiments. Various additions, modifications, changes, etc., could be made to the exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. It is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Additionally, the disclosure shows and describes only selected embodiments of the disclosure, but the disclosure is capable of use in various other combinations, modifications, and environments and is capable of changes or modifications within the scope of the inventive concept as expressed herein, commensurate with the above teachings, and / or within the skill or knowledge of the relevant art. Furthermore, certain features and characteristics of each embodiment may be selectively interchanged and applied to other illustrated and non-illustrated embodiments of the disclosure.

Claims

Atty. Docket No. 23202.1206WO2Client Docket No. 9206-PCTWHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A carrier for holding one or more product containers, the carrier comprising: a lower tray comprising a base panel foldably coupled to a lower side panel, the lower side panel extending at least partially around an interior of the lower tray, the interior sized and shaped to at least partially receive the one or more product containers; and an upper construct disposed above the lower tray and engaged with the one or more product containers.

2. The carrier of claim 1 , wherein the upper construct includes a top panel that is engaged with a top surface of each of the one or more product containers via an adhesive.

3. The carrier of claim 1, wherein each of the one or more product containers include a respective upper panel having a respective access tab and wherein the upper construct is engaged with each respective access tab via an adhesive.

4. The carrier of claim 3, wherein each respective access tab is at least partially defined by a line of weakening enabling the respective access tab to be detached from the respective upper panel when the upper construct is removed.

5. The carrier of claim 1, wherein the lower side panel includes first and second lower side panels each connected to first and second lower end panels to form a continuous lower side panel.

6. The carrier of claim 5, wherein the continuous lower side panel is engaged with the one or more product containers via a tension force within the continuous lower side panel.

7. The carrier of claim 5, wherein the continuous lower side panel includes a plurality of end flaps connecting the first and second lower side panels to the first and second lower end panels.Atty. Docket No. 23202.1206WO2Client Docket No. 9206-PCT8. The carrier of claim 7, wherein the plurality of end flaps at least partially define a plurality of openings in the continuous lower side panel, wherein an opening of the plurality of openings is positioned at each comer of the lower tray.

9. The carrier of claim 1, wherein the upper construct includes a top panel having a plurality of locking tabs, wherein each locking tab is foldably attached to the top panel.

10. The carrier of claim 9, wherein the top panel is engaged with the one or more product containers via the plurality of locking tabs, wherein each of the one or more product containers include a respective upper panel defining an opening and wherein a locking tab of the plurality of locking tabs is received through each respective opening.

11. The carrier of claim 1, wherein the upper construct includes a top tray comprising a top panel foldably coupled to an upper side panel, the upper side panel extending at least partially around an interior of the upper construct, the interior sized and shaped to at least partially receive the one or more product containers.

12. The carrier of claim 10, wherein the continuous upper side panel is engaged with the one or more product containers via a tension force within the continuous upper side panel.

13. The carrier of claim 10, wherein the continuous upper side panel includes a plurality of upper end flaps and wherein the plurality of upper end flaps at least partially define a plurality of openings in the continuous upper side panel, wherein an opening of the plurality of openings is positioned at each comer of the upper construct.

14. A combination of blanks for forming a carrier for holding one or more product containers, the combination comprising: a lower tray blank for forming a lower tray comprising a base panel foldably coupled to a lower side panel, the lower side panel extending at least partially around an interior of the lower tray, the interior sized and shaped to at least partially receive the one or more product containers; andAtty. Docket No. 23202.1206WO2Client Docket No. 9206-PCT an upper blank for forming an upper construct disposed above the lower tray and engaged with the one or more product containers.

15. The combination of blanks of claim 14, wherein the upper construct blank includes a top panel that is configured to be engaged with a top surface of each of the one or more product containers via an adhesive.

16. The combination of blanks of claim 14, wherein each of the one or more product containers is configured to include a respective upper panel having a respective access tab and wherein the upper construct blank is configured to be engaged with each respective access tab via an adhesive.

17. The combination of blanks of claim 16, wherein each respective access tab is at least partially defined by a line of weakening enabling the respective access tab to be detached from the respective upper panel when the carrier is assembled.

18. The combination of blanks of claim 14, wherein the lower side panel is defined by first and second lower side panels each connected to first and second lower end panels by fold lines to form a continuous lower side panel upon assembly.

19. The combination of blanks of claim 18, wherein the continuous lower side panel, when formed, is configured to be engaged with the one or more product containers via a tension force within the continuous lower side panel.

20. The combination of blanks of claim 18, wherein the continuous lower side panel includes a plurality of end flaps configured to connect the first and second lower side panels to the first and second lower end panels.Atty. Docket No. 23202.1206WO2Client Docket No. 9206-PCT21. The combination of blanks of claim 20, wherein the plurality of end flaps are configured to at least partially define a plurality of openings in the continuous lower side panel upon assembly, an opening positioned at each comer of the lower tray.

22. The combination of blanks of claim 14, wherein the upper construct blank includes a top panel having a plurality of locking tabs defined by fold lines, each locking tab foldably attached to the top panel.

23. The combination of blanks of claim 22, wherein the top panel is configured to be engaged with the one or more product containers via the plurality of locking tabs, each container including a respective opening in an associated panel, and wherein a locking tab is received through each respective opening upon assembly.

24. The combination of blanks of claim 14, wherein the upper construct blank includes a top tray blank comprising a top panel foldably coupled to an upper side panel, the upper side panel, upon assembly, extending at least partially around an interior of the upper construct, the interior sized and shaped to at least partially receive the one or more product containers.

25. The combination of blanks of claim 23, wherein the continuous upper side panel, when formed, is configured to be engaged with the one or more product containers via a tension force within the continuous upper side panel.

26. The combination of blanks of claim 23, wherein the continuous upper side panel includes a plurality of upper end flaps and wherein the plurality of upper end flaps, upon assembly, are configured to at least partially define a plurality of openings in the continuous upper side panel, an opening positioned at each comer of the construct.Atty. Docket No. 23202.1206WO2Client Docket No. 9206-PCT27. A method of forming a carrier for holding one or more product containers, the method comprising: forming a lower tray comprising a base panel foldably coupled to a lower side panel, the lower side panel extending at least partially around an interior of the lower tray, the interior sized and shaped to at least partially receive the one or more product containers; and disposing an upper construct above the lower tray and engaging the upper construct with the one or more product containers.

28. The method of claim 27, further comprising engaging a top panel of the upper construct with a top surface of each of the one or more product containers via an adhesive.

29. The method of claim 27, wherein each of the one or more product containers include a respective upper panel having a respective access tab, the method further comprising engaging the upper construct with each respective access tab via an adhesive.

30. The method of claim 29, wherein each respective access tab is at least partially defined by a line of weakening enabling the respective access tab to be detached from the respective upper panel when the upper construct is removed.

31. The method of claim 27, wherein the lower side panel includes first and second lower side panels and wherein forming the lower tray comprises connecting each of the first and second lower side panels to form a continuous lower side panel.

32. The method of claim 31 , further comprising engaging the continuous lower side panel with the one or more product containers via a tension force within the continuous lower side panel.

33. The method of claim 31 , wherein the continuous lower side panel includes a plurality of end flaps connecting the first and second lower side panels to the first and second lower end panels.Atty. Docket No. 23202.1206WO2Client Docket No. 9206-PCT34. The method of claim 33, wherein the plurality of end flaps at least partially define a plurality of openings in the continuous lower side panel, wherein an opening of the plurality of openings is positioned at each comer of the lower tray.

35. The method of claim 27, wherein the upper construct includes a top panel having a plurality of locking tabs, wherein each locking tab is foldably attached to the top panel.

36. The method of claim 35, wherein the top panel is engaged with the one or more product containers via the plurality of locking tabs, wherein each of the one or more product containers include a respective upper panel defining an opening and wherein a locking tab of the plurality of locking tabs is received through each respective opening.

37. The method of claim 27, wherein the upper construct includes a top tray comprising a top panel foldably coupled to an upper side panel, the upper side panel extending at least partially around an interior of the upper tray, the interior sized and shaped to at least partially receive the one or more product containers.

38. The method of claim 36, wherein the continuous upper side panel is engaged with the one or more product containers via a tension force within the continuous upper side panel.

39. The method of claim 36, wherein the continuous upper side panel includes a plurality of upper end flaps and wherein the plurality of upper end flaps at least partially define a plurality of openings in the continuous upper side panel, wherein an opening of the plurality of openings is positioned at each comer of the upper tray.

Images