Carrier for containers

Abstract

A carrier for holding a plurality of containers includes a central panel having a plurality of container retention openings for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers, a plurality of first container retention tabs foldably connected to the central panel and positioned extending into a respective container retention opening of the plurality of container retention openings, a plurality of second container retention tabs positioned between respective adjacent first container retention tabs of the plurality of first container retention tabs, the plurality of first container retention tabs engaging a first portion of a respective container received in a respective container retention opening and the second container retention tabs engaging a second portion of the respective container, the second portion is below the first portion of the respective container.

Description

Attorney Docket No. 23202.1225WO2CARRIER FOR CONTAINERSCROSS-REFERENCED TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 755,572, filed on February 7, 2025.INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0002] The disclosure of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 755,572, which was filed on February 7, 2025, is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes as if presented herein in its entirety.BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0003] The present disclosure generally relates to cartons or carriers for holding, displaying, and / or transporting containers.SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0004] According to one aspect, the disclosure is generally directed to a carrier for holding a plurality of containers. The carrier comprising a central panel comprising a plurality of container retention openings for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers and container retention features in the centred panel. The container retention features comprising a plurality of first container retention tabs foldably connected to the central panel and positioned extending into a respective container retention opening of the plurality of container retention openings and a plurality of second container retention tabs positioned between respective adjacent first container retention tabs of the plurality of first container retention tabs. The plurality of first container retention tabs for engaging a first portion of a respective container received in a respective container retention opening and the second container retention tabs for engaging a second portion of the respective container, the second portion is below the first portion of the respective container.Attorney Docket No. 23202.1225WO2

[0005] According to another aspect, the disclosure is generally directed to a blank for forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers. The blank comprising a central panel comprising a plurality of container retention openings for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers and container retention features in the central panel. The container retention features comprise a plurality of first container retention tabs foldably connected to the central panel and positioned extending into a respective container retention opening of the plurality of container retention openings and a plurality of second container retention tabs positioned between respective adjacent first container retention tabs of the plurality of first container retention tabs. The plurality of first container retention tabs for engaging a first portion of a respective container received in a respective container retention opening in the carrier formed from the blank and the second container retention tabs for engaging a second portion of the respective container in the carrier formed from the blank, the second portion is below the first portion of the respective container.

[0006] According to another aspect, the disclosure is generally directed to a method of forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the method comprising obtaining a blank. The blank comprising a central panel comprising a plurality of container retention openings for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers and container retention features in the central panel. The container retention features comprising a plurality of first container retention tabs foldably connected to the central panel and positioned extending into a respective container retention opening of the plurality of container retention openings and a plurality of second container retention tabs positioned between respective adjacent first container retention tabs of the plurality of first container retention tabs. The method further comprises positioning the plurality of first container retention tabs to engage a first portion of a respective container received in a respective container retention opening and engaging a second portion of the respective container with the second container retention tabs, the second portion is below the first portion.

[0007] According to another aspect, the disclosure is generally directed to a package comprising a plurality of containers and a carrier holding the plurality of containers. The carrier comprises a central panel comprising a plurality of container retention openings at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers and container retention features in the centralAttorney Docket No. 23202.1225WO2panel. The container retention features comprising a plurality of first container retention tabs foldably connected to the centred panel and positioned extending into a respective container retention opening of the plurality of container retention openings and a plurality of second container retention tabs positioned between respective adjacent first container retention tabs of the plurality of first container retention tabs. The plurality of first container retention tabs engaging a first portion of a respective container received in a respective container retention opening and the second container retention tabs engaging a second portion of the respective container, the second portion is below the first portion of the respective container.

[0008] 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.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] 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.

[0010] Fig. 1 is a plan view of an outer surface of a blank for forming a carrier according to a first exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0011] Fig. 1 A is an enlarged view of a portion of the blank of Fig. 1.

[0012] Fig. 2 is a perspective view of a plurality of containers of a type for use with carriers and packages according to the present disclosure.

[0013] Fig. 3 is a perspective view of a package and carrier formed from the blank of Fig. 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0014] Fig. 4 is a side elevation view of the package and carrier of Fig. 3.

[0015] Fig. 5 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the package and carrier of Fig. 3.Attorney Docket No. 23202.1225WO2

[0016] Fig. 6 is an enlarged perspective view of another portion of the package and carrier of Fig.3.

[0017] Fig. 7 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank for forming a carrier according to a second exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0018] Fig. 7A is an enlarged view of a portion of the blank of Fig. 7.

[0019] Fig. 8 is a perspective view of a package and carrier formed from the blank of Fig. 7 according to the first exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0020] Fig. 9 is a side elevation view of the package and carrier of Fig. 8.

[0021] Fig. 10 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the package and carrier of Fig. 8.

[0022] Corresponding parts are designated by corresponding reference numbers throughout the drawings.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0023] 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.

[0024] Carriers 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., plastic bottles or containers) at least partially disposed within the carrier embodiments. In this specification, the terms “lower,” “bottom,” “upper” and “top” indicate orientations determined in relation to fully erected packages.Attorney Docket No. 23202.1225WO2

[0025] Fig. 1 is a plan view of an exterior surface 101 of a blank 103 for forming a carrier 105 (Fig. 3) according to a first exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. Fig. 1 A is an enlarged view of a portion of the blank 103. As described further herein, the carrier 105 can be configured for holding / supporting / retaining / receiving a plurality of containers. The carrier 105 can be provided with one or more containers to form a package 107 (Fig. 3).

[0026] As shown in Fig. 3, the carrier 105 is sized to contain or support three containers C, with three containers C being attached to a front portion 106 of the carrier 105 and three containers C being attached to a back portion 108 of the carrier 105.

[0027] With momentary reference to Fig. 2, in the illustrated embodiment, the containers C can be bottles, e.g., plastic bottles formed of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or another polymer, and having lower or base portions B and upper portions that include an at least partially tapered neck portion N intersecting a flange or flange portion F that at least partially supports a cap CP. In other embodiments, the containers C could be beverage cans or another suitable type and size of container. The carrier 105 can be provided together with one or more of the containers C as the package 107.

[0028] In some embodiments, the containers C could be beverage cans or another suitable type and size of container. The carrier 105 can be provided together with one or more of the containers C as a package 107.

[0029] Still referring to Figs. 1 and 1A, the blank 103 has a longitudinal axis LI and a lateral axis L2. The blank 103 can also have an upper or exterior surface 101 and a lower or interior surface such that a thickness of the blank 103 and carrier 105 formed therefrom can be at least partially defined from the exterior surface 101 to the interior surface. In alternative embodiments, the axis LI can be a lateral axis and the axis L2 can be a longitudinal axis.

[0030] The blank 103 comprises an attachment panel or central panel 121 that includes container retention features 123 for engaging containers C when the carrier 105 is formed from the blank 103, as described further herein.

[0031] As shown, the central panel 121 can be provided with an arrangement of two rows and three columns (e.g., 2 x 3) of container retention features 123, each row extending in a directionAttorney Docket No. 23202.1225WO2parallel to / along the longitudinal axis LI and spaced apart on a direction parallel to / along the lateral axis L2, and each column extending in a direction parallel to / along the lateral axis L2 and spaced apart on a direction parallel to / along the longitudinal axis LI . It will be understood that a different arrangement of container retention features 123 can be provided for engaging a selected number of containers, for example, but not limited to, a 2 x 1 arrangement, a 2 x 2 arrangement, a 3 x 1 arrangement, a 3 x 2 arrangement, etc.

[0032] With additional reference to Fig. 1 A, in the illustrated embodiment, the container retention features 123 can include a plurality of container retention openings 125 at least partially defined by the central panel 121 and for at least partially receiving respective containers of the plurality of containers C when the carrier 105 / package 107 is formed from the blank 103.

[0033] A plurality of container retention tabs can also extend into the respective container retention openings 125 for at least partially engaging a respective container C of the plurality of containers C.

[0034] The container retention tabs can include a plurality of container retention tabs 127 (broadly, respective “first container retention tab”) positioned extending into the respective container retention openings 125. In the illustrated embodiment, each container retention feature 123 can include a set of four container retention tabs 127 generally oriented at 45 -degree radial increments about the respective container retention opening 125, though a different arrangement of container retention tabs 127 could be provided without departing from the disclosure.

[0035] As shown, each container retention tab 127 can be foldably connected to the central panel 121 at a respective oblique fold line 129. In some embodiments, one or more of the respective fold lines 129 can be compound fold lines that include a plurality of parallel, spaced apart lines of weakening, e.g., a pair of spaced apart lines of weakening.

[0036] Each container retention tab 127 can be at least partially separable from the central panel 121 at respective cuts 131, 133, 134. Each cut 131, 133, as shown, extends from respective endpoints or end portions of a respective fold lines and are generally oblique segments. The cut 134 is a generally curved cut extending between adjacent oblique cuts 131, 133, though a different arrangement of cuts could be provided without departing from the disclosure. In this regard, andAttorney Docket No. 23202.1225WO2as shown, each container retention tab 127 can have an at least partially arrowhead-like configuration.

[0037] As also shown, respective laterally-adjacent container retention tabs 127 of each container retention feature 123 can be separable from one another at respective longitudinal cuts 135, and respective longitudinally-adjacent container retention tabs 127 of each container retention feature 123 can be at least partially separable from one another at respective lateral cuts 137.

[0038] With continued reference to Fig. 1A, respective cuts 131, 133, 134 associated with each container retention tab 127 can intersect one another so as to at least partially define a respective container retention tab 139 (broadly, respective “second container retention tab”) along the central panel 121 at generally 90-degree radial positions between respective adjacent container retention tabs 127. The container retention tabs 139, as shown, can be positioned so as to at least partially define the respective container retention openings 125.

[0039] Each container retention tab 139 can have a pair of oblique free edges defined by the oblique cuts 131, 133 and a concave free edge defined by the curved cuts 134 intersecting the oblique cuts 131, 133. The concave free edge of the container retention tabs 139 can be shaped for contacting a respective curved / cylindrical portion of a container C, as described farther herein.

[0040] The blank 103 and carrier 105 / package 107 formed therefrom can further include handle features for facilitating grasping of the carrier 105 / package 107 formed from the blank 103. In some embodiments, the handle features can include a pair of longitudinally opposed handle openings 141 with respective pairs of finger tabs or handle reinforcement tabs 143 positioned extending at least partially therein. The handle reinforcement tabs 143, as shown, can be foldably connected to the central panel 121 at respective oblique fold fines 145, and adjacent handle reinforcement tabs 143 can be separably connected to one another at a respective longitudinal cut 147.

[0041] With additional reference to Figs. 3-5, formation of the carrier 105 and package 107 from the blank 103 will be described according to gin exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. In some embodiments, the carrier 105 can be formed from the blank 103 upon activation of one or moreAttorney Docket No. 23202.1225WO2container retention features. In some embodiments, the carrier 105 can be considered an activated or otherwise manipulated state of the blank 103 as shown in Fig. 1.

[0042] In some embodiments, the central panel 121 can be lowered onto a plurality of containers C such that at least the cap CP and flange portion F of a respective container C can be at least partially received through a respective container opening 125.

[0043] Upon engagement of the cap CP and / or flange portion F of a respective container C with the respective container retention tabs 127 associated with a respective container opening 125, the respective container retention tabs 127 can at least partially separate from one another at the respective cuts 135, 137 and can at least partially separate from the centred panel 121 at the respective cuts 131, 133, 134.

[0044] Further downward movement of the central panel 121 can cause the container retention tabs 127 to fold at least partially upwardly at the respective fold lines 129 and expand the size of the container retention openings 125. The upwardly folded container retention tabs 127 into engagement with the containers and have free edges 128 that engage an underside of the flange portion F of a respective container C, e.g., in a bracing relationship, that can secure or attach the carrier 105 to the containers C.

[0045] The aforementioned movement / upwardly folding of the container retention tabs 127 out of the plane of the centra panel can expose / form the container retention tabs 139 protruding from the remainder of the central panel 121 so as to be positioned with concave free edges 140 formed by cuts 134 protruding into the container receiving openings 125. Each container retention tab 139 contacts the base portions B of the respective containers C, e.g., in a contouring relationship. In this regard, each of the container retention tabs 127, 139 can be positioned contacting a respective portion of the containers C, with the container retention tabs 127 extending obliquely upwardly relative to the container retention tabs 139. The free edges 128 of the container retention tabs 127 engage a first portion of a respective container (e.g., the flange F) and the free edges 140 of the container retention tabs 139 engage a second portion of a respective container (e.g., neck portion N) that is below the first portion of the respective container. As shown in Fig. 3, the container retention tabs 139 are generally coplanar with the central panel 121. In some embodiments, oneAttorney Docket No. 23202.1225WO2or more of the container retention tabs 139 can at least partially fold or flex relative to the remainder of the central panel 121.

[0046] The positioning of the container retention tabs 127 contacting the flange portions F of the respective containers C in conjunction with the positioning of the container retention tabs 139 contacting the neck portion N or base portions B of the respective containers C can maintain a tightened and secure relationship between the carrier 105 and the containers C, e.g., so as to minimize, inhibit, prevent, and / or otherwise avoid relative movement therebetween. Furthermore, such arrangement of container retention tabs 127, 139 can be aesthetically pleasing, e.g., such that the extra stabilization of the containers C afforded by the container retention tabs 139 can avoid instances in which the container retention tabs 127 loosen and disengage from the containers C.

[0047] Upon formation of the package 107, a user can engage the package 107 / carrier 105 by pressing one or more fingers against the respective pairs of handle reinforcement flaps 143 to cause at least partial separation thereof at the respective cuts 147 such that the handle reinforcement flaps 143 can fold at least partially downwardly at the respective fold lines 145 into the respective handle openings 141. In this regard, the user can curl one or more fingers downwardly through the handle opening(s) 141 to contact an edge or underside of the central panel 121 to lift or otherwise move the package 107. In some embodiments, one or both of the handle reinforcement flaps 145 can be positioned between a user’ s finger(s) and the central panel 121 , for example, to provide cushioning, avoid pinching, add an additional ply of material to avoid tearing, etc.

[0048] In view of the foregoing, a blank 103 and carrier 105 formed therefrom are provided with container retention features in an arrangement that allows for a tight engagement about a respective container C via multiple points of contact including a first point of contact and a second point of contact that is spaced below the first point of contact.

[0049] It will be understood that one or more of the container retention features of the blank 103 / carrier 105 / package 107 can have a different configuration or arrangement without departing from the disclosure. It will be further understood that the blank 103 / carrier 105 can have a different configuration without departing from the disclosure.Attorney Docket No. 23202.1225WO2

[0050] Turning to Fig. 7, the exterior surface 201 of a blank 203 for forming a carrier 205 according to a second exemplary embodiment of the disclosure is illustrated. The carrier 205 can be provided with one or more containers C as a package 207.

[0051] The blank 203 and the carrier 205 / package 207 formed therefrom can have one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the blank 103 and the carrier 105 / package 107 formed therefrom, and like or similar features can be designated with like or similar reference numerals.

[0052] As shown, the blank 203 can have the longitudinal axis LI, the lateral axis L2, the centrad panel 121, and a plurality of container retention features 223 arranged along the central panel 121. As shown, the central panel 121 can be provided with 2 x 3 arrangement of container retention features 223, each row extending in a direction parallel to / along the longitudinal axis LI and spaced apart on a direction parallel to / along the lateral axis L2, and each column extending in a direction parallel to / along the lateral axis L2 and spaced apart on a direction parallel to / along the longitudinal axis LI. It will be understood that a different arrangement of container retention features 223 can be provided for engaging a selected number of containers, for example, but not limited to, a 2 x 1 arrangement, a 2 x 2 arrangement, a 3 x 1 arrangement, a 3 x 2 arrangement, etc.

[0053] With additional reference to Fig. 7A, in the illustrated embodiment, the container retention features 223 can include the plurality of container retention openings 125 at least partially defined by the central panel 121 and for at least partially receiving respective containers of the plurality of containers C when the carrier 205 / package 207 is formed from the blank 203.

[0054] The container retention tabs 127, 139 and associated features can be positioned extending into the respective container retention openings 125, though the container retention tabs 127 may be at least partially defined by or otherwise protrude from the central panel 121, and can be devoid of the foldable connection thereto at the respective fold lines 129.

[0055] The container retention features of the blank 203 and carrier 205 / package 207 formed therefrom can also include a plurality of deflection tabs 249 positioned extending away from a respective container retention tab 127. The deflection tabs 249 can also be characterized as a base portion of the container retention tabs 127. In the illustrated embodiment, each deflection tab 249,Attorney Docket No. 23202.1225WO2as shown, can be defined by a curved cut 251 with a convex configuration, e.g., so as to extend toward endpoints thereof generally in the direction of the respective container retention tab 127. In one embodiment, the end points of the curved cuts 251 are spaced apart from the oblique cuts 131, 133 forming the respective first container retention tabs 127 by portions of the central panel 121 that is free of any line of weakening. In other embodiments, fold lines or other lines of weakening could extend from the curved cuts 251 to the oblique cuts 131, 133 without departing from the disclosure.

[0056] With continued reference to Fig. 6, the blank 203 and carrier 205 / package 207 formed therefrom can include handle features that can include the handle openings 141, the handle reinforcement tabs 143, and associated features.

[0057] Turning to Figs. 8-12, formation of the carrier 205 and package 207 from the blank 203 can proceed in a manner generally similar to that described above with respect to the formation of the carrier 105 and package 107 from the blank 103.

[0058] However, upon the upwardly folding of the first container retention tabs 127 and engagement of the blank 203 / carrier 205 with the respective containers C, the respective deflection tabs 249 can at least partially separate from the central panel 121 at the respective cuts 251, and can at least partially move downwardly, e.g., so as to tilt / sink out of a plane formed by the exterior surface 201 of the central panel 121. In the second embodiment of the carrier 205, the first container retention tabs 127 can be foldably connected to the central panel 121 at the portions of the central panel that are adjacent to the cuts 251 and generally between the cuts 251 and the oblique cuts 131, 133. As shown in Fig. 9, upon upwardly folding of the first container retention tabs 127 the deflection tabs 249 can be positioned to generally coplanar with the first container retention tabs 127 and the deflection tabs 249 extend below the central panel 121. The first container retention tabs 127, second container retention tabs 139, and deflection tabs 249 can be alternatively shaped, arranged, positioned, and / or configured without departing from the disclosure.

[0059] Such movement of the deflection tabs 249 can permit, for example, a closer engagement of the free edges 128, 140 of the respective container retention tabs 127, 139 with the respective containers C. As with the first embodiment, the free edges 128 of the first container retention tabsAttorney Docket No. 23202.1225WO2127 of the carrier 205 engage the underside of a respective flange F of a respective container and the free edges 140 of the second container retention tabs 139 engage a respective neck portion N of a respective container C. In some embodiments, the movement of the respective container deflection tabs 249 out of the plane formed by the central panel 121 can provide the relief of stresses, e.g., stresses associated with the engagement of the carrier 205 with the respective containers C, transmitted across the central panel 121 and to the respective container retention tabs 127 and / or 139, for example, to avoid tearing or other unwanted strains.

[0060] In this regard, the carrier 205 and package 207 can be formed from the blank 203 to provide a front portion 206 and a back portion 208 thereof, and to have functionality and advantages similar to that described above with respect to the carrier 105 and package 107 formed from the blank 103. It will be understood that one or more of the container retention features of the blank 203 / carrier 205 / package 207 can have a different configuration or arrangement without departing from the disclosure.

[0061] For example, alternative exemplary embodiments of blanks for forming package and carriers can include container retention features that have a plurality of first container retention tabs positioned extending into a respective container opening of a plurality of container retention openings that are alternative sized, shaped, arranged, configured, and / or positioned as compared to the first container retention tabs 127. In alternative embodiments, the plurality of second container retention tabs can have differently-configured free edges, e.g., curved or straight and the second container retention tabs can bey alternatively sized, shaped, arranged, configured, and / or positioned as compared to the second container retention tabs 139.

[0062] Each first container retention tab can be separably connected to a central panel at an arrangement of cuts that at least partially defines a plurality of second container retention tabs between respective adjacent first container retention tabs. As described above, the second container retention tabs can be positioned to engage a portion of a respective container C, e.g., a neck portion N or base portion B thereof in a generally planar contacting relationship, upon formation of a package and carrier therefrom, for forming a secure relationship between a carrier formed from the respective blank and respective containers C.Attorney Docket No. 23202.1225WO2

[0063] 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 sheet-like materials at selected panels or panel sections.

[0064] 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 edong 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 line 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.

[0065] 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,Attorney Docket No. 23202.1225WO2typically 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.

[0066] 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.

[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.

[0068] Additionally, spatially relative terms, such as "bottom or "top"; or “front” or “back”; and the like can be used to describe an element and / or feature's relationship to another element(s) and / or feature(s) as, for example, illustrated in the figures. It will be understood that the spatially relative terms are intended to encompass different orientations of the device in use and / or operation in addition to the orientation depicted in the figures. For example, if the device in the figures is turned over, elements described as a "bottom" surface can then be oriented "above" other elements or features. The device can be otherwise oriented (e.g., rotated 90 degrees or at other orientations) and the spatially relative descriptors used herein interpreted accordingly.

[0069] Terms “and,” “or,” and “an / or,” as used herein, may include a variety of meanings that also is expected to depend at least in part upon the context in which such terms are used. Typically, “or” if used to associate a list, such as A, B, or C, is intended to mean A, B, and C, here used in the inclusive sense, as well as A, B, or C, here used in the exclusive sense. In addition, the term “one or more” as used herein may be used to describe any feature, structure, or characteristic inAttorney Docket No. 23202.1225WO2the singular or may be used to describe some combination of features, structures, or characteristics. However, it should be noted that this is merely an illustrative example and claimed subject matter is not limited to this example. Furthermore, the term “at least one of’ if used to associate a list, such as A, B, or C, can be interpreted to mean any combination of A, B, and / or C, such as A, B, C, AB, AC, BC, AA, AAB, ABC, AABBCCC, etc.

[0070] Reference throughout this specification to “one example,” “an example,” “certain examples,” “exemplary embodiments”, or “exemplary implementation” means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the feature and / or example may be included in at least one feature and / or example of claimed subject matter. Thus, the appearances of the phrase “in one example,” “an example,” “in certain examples,” “in certain implementations,” “in some embodiments”, or other like phrases in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same feature, example, and / or limitation. Furthermore, the particular features, structures, or characteristics may be combined in one or more examples and / or features.

[0071] In the preceding detailed description, numerous specific details have been set forth to provide a thorough understanding of claimed subject matter. However, it will be understood by those skilled in the art that claimed subject matter may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, methods and apparatuses that would be known by one of ordinary skill have not been described in detail so as not to obscure claimed subject matter. Therefore, it is intended that claimed subject matter not be limited to the particular examples disclosed, but that such claimed subject matter may also include all aspects falling within the scope of appended claims, and equivalents thereof.

Claims

Attorney Docket No. 23202.1225WO2WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the carrier comprising:a central panel comprising a plurality of container retention openings for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers;container retention features in the central panel, the container retention features comprising a plurality of first container retention tabs foldably connected to the central panel and positioned extending into a respective container retention opening of the plurality of container retention openings, and a plurality of second container retention tabs positioned between respective adjacent first container retention tabs of the plurality of first container retention tabs,the plurality of first container retention tabs for engaging a first portion of a respective container received in a respective container retention opening and the second container retention tabs for engaging a second portion of the respective container, the second portion is below the first portion of the respective container.

2. The carrier of claim 1, wherein the first container retention tabs engage a flange portion of a respective container and the second container retention tabs engage a neck portion of a respective container of the plurality of containers.

3. The carrier of claim 1, wherein the first container retention tabs are upwardly folded relative to the central panel and the second container retention tabs are generally coplanar with the central panel.

4. The carrier of claim 1 , wherein a respective second container retention tab is defined by portions of the centred panel between respective adjacent first container retention tabs.

5. The carrier of claim 4, wherein the respective adjacent first container retention tabs are defined by cuts in the central panel and the respective second container retention tab is defined by portions of the central panel adjacent the cuts.

6. The carrier of claim 5, wherein the cuts comprise a first oblique cut, a second oblique cut, and a curved cut extending between the first oblique cut and the second oblique cut.Attorney Docket No. 23202.1225WO27. The carrier of claim 6, wherein the curved cut defines a free edge of the respective second container retention tab.

8. The carrier of claim 7, wherein the curved cut is a first curved cut, the respective adjacent first container retention tabs include a deflection tab defined by a second curved cut.

9. The carrier of claim 8, wherein the second curved cut is spaced apart from the first oblique cut and the second oblique cut.

10. The carrier of claim 8, wherein the deflection tab is positioned to extend below the central panel upon engagement of the first container retention tabs with a respective container.

11. The carrier of claim 10, wherein the deflection tabs are coplanar with the first container retention tabs.

12. A blank for forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the blank comprising:a central panel comprising a plurality of container retention openings for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers;container retention features in the central panel, the container retention features comprising a plurality of first container retention tabs foldably connected to the central panel and positioned extending into a respective container retention opening of the plurality of container retention openings, and a plurality of second container retention tabs positioned between respective adjacent first container retention tabs of the plurality of first container retention tabs,the plurality of first container retention tabs for engaging a first portion of a respective container received in a respective container retention opening in the carrier formed from the blank and the second container retention tabs for engaging a second portion of the respective container in the carrier formed from the blank, the second portion is below the first portion of the respective container.

13. The blank of claim 12, wherein the first container retention tabs are for engaging a flange portion of a respective container in the carrier formed from the blank and the second containerAttorney Docket No. 23202.1225WO2retention tabs are for engaging a neck portion of a respective container of the plurality of containers.

14. The blank of claim 12, wherein the first container retention tabs are for being upwardly folded relative to the central panel in the carrier formed from the blank and the second container retention tabs are for being generally coplanar with the central panel in the carrier formed from the blank.

15. The blank of claim 12, wherein a respective second container retention tab is defined by portions of the central panel between respective adjacent first container retention tabs, the respective adjacent first container retention tabs are defined by cuts in the central panel and the respective second container retention tab is defined by portions of the central panel adjacent the cuts.

16. The blank of claim 15, wherein the cuts comprise a first oblique cut, a second oblique cut, and a curved cut extending between the first oblique cut and the second oblique cut, the curved cut defines a free edge of the respective second container retention tab.

17. The blank of claim 16, wherein the curved cut is a first curved cut, the respective adjacent first container retention tabs include a deflection tab defined by a second curved cut.

18. The blank of claim 17, wherein the second curved cut is spaced apart from the first oblique cut and the second oblique cut.

19. The blank of claim 17, wherein the deflection tab is positioned to extend below the central panel upon engagement of the first container retention tabs with a respective container in the carrier formed from the blank.

20. A method of forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the method comprising:obtaining a blank having a central panel comprising a plurality of container retention openings for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers and container retention features in the central panel, the container retention features comprising a plurality of first container retention tabs foldably connected to the centred panel and positioned extending into a respective container retention opening of the plurality of container retentionAttorney Docket No. 23202.1225WO2openings, and a plurality of second container retention tabs positioned between respective adjacent first container retention tabs of the plurality of first container retention tabs;positioning the plurality of first container retention tabs to engage a first portion of a respective container received in a respective container retention opening and engaging a second portion of the respective container with the second container retention tabs, the second portion is below the first portion.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein the first container retention tabs engage a flange portion of a respective container and the second container retention tabs engage a neck portion of a respective container of the plurality of containers.

22. The method of claim 20, wherein the positioning the first container retention tabs comprises upwardly folding the first container retention tabs relative to the central panel and the second container retention tabs are generally coplanar with the central panel.

23. The method of claim 20, wherein a respective second container retention tab is defined by portions of the central panel between respective adjacent first container retention tabs,the respective adjacent first container retention tabs are defined by cuts in the central panel and the respective second container retention tab is defined by portions of the central panel adjacent the cuts.

24. The method of claim 23, wherein the cuts comprise a first oblique cut, a second oblique cut, and a curved cut extending between the first oblique cut and the second oblique cut, the curved cut defines a free edge of the respective second container retention tab, the engaging the second portion of the respective container comprises engaging the free edge of the respective second container retention tab with a surface of the respective container.

25. The method of claim 24, wherein the curved cut is a first curved cut, the respective adjacent first container retention tabs include a deflection tab defined by a second curved cut, the second curved cut is spaced apart from the first oblique cut and the second oblique cut.Attorney Docket No. 23202.1225WO226. The method of claim 25, wherein the positioning the first container retention tabs comprises positioning the deflection tab to extend below the central panel upon engagement of the first container retention tabs with a respective container.

27. A package comprising a plurality of containers and a carrier holding the plurality of containers, the carrier comprising:a central panel comprising a plurality of container retention openings at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers;container retention features in the central panel, the container retention features comprising a plurality of first container retention tabs foldably connected to the central panel and positioned extending into a respective container retention opening of the plurality of container retention openings, and a plurality of second container retention tabs positioned between respective adjacent first container retention tabs of the plurality of first container retention tabs,the plurality of first container retention tabs engaging a first portion of a respective container received in a respective container retention opening and the second container retention tabs engaging a second portion of the respective container, the second portion is below the first portion of the respective container.

28. The package of claim 27, wherein the first container retention tabs engage a flange portion of a respective container and the second container retention tabs engage a neck portion of a respective container of the plurality of containers.

29. The package of claim 27, wherein the first container retention tabs are upwardly folded relative to the central panel and the second container retention tabs are generally coplanar with the central panel.

30. The package of claim 27, wherein a respective second container retention tab is defined by portions of the central panel between respective adjacent first container retention tabs, the respective adjacent first container retention tabs are defined by cuts in the central panel and the respective second container retention tab is defined by portions of the central panel adjacent the cuts.Attorney Docket No. 23202.1225WO231. The package of claim 30, wherein the cuts comprise a first oblique cut, a second oblique cut, and a curved cut extending between the first oblique cut and the second oblique cut, the curved cut defines a free edge of the respective second container retention tab.

32. The package of claim 31, wherein the curved cut is a first curved cut, the respective adjacent first container retention tabs include a deflection tab defined by a second curved cut, the second curved cut is spaced apart from the first oblique cut and the second oblique cut.

33. The package of claim 32, wherein the deflection tab is positioned to extend below the central panel upon engagement of the first container retention tabs with a respective container.

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