Carrier including reinforcement gussets

Abstract

A carrier for holding a plurality of containers may comprise a plurality of panels extending at least partially around an interior of the carrier. The plurality of panels may comprise a top panel, a bottom panel, and a side panel. The carrier may further comprise a lower gusset foldably connected to the bottom panel and attached to a container of the plurality of containers.

Description

Attorney Docket No. 23202.1234WO2CARRIER INCLUDING REINFORCEMENT GUSSETSCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No.63 / 774,202 filed on March 19, 2025.INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

[0002] The disclosure of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 774,202, filed on March 19, 2025, is hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes as if presented herein in its entirety.TECHNICAL FIELD

[0003] The present disclosure relates to carriers for holding a plurality of containers, blanks for forming such carriers, methods for forming carriers from blanks, and packages comprising carriers holding containers. The disclosure further relates to gussets and panels for securing containers within carriers.BACKGROUND

[0004] Conventional carriers for holding multiple containers may allow containers to shift or move within the carrier during handling and transportation. Existing open-ended sleeve-like carriers may permit containers to unintentionally slip or fall away from the carrier, particularly at comer locations where stress concentrations can occur. Traditional carrier designs may not adequately maintain the arrangement of containers in a stable configuration once the package is handled or manipulated by consumers.SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

[0005] 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.Attorney Docket No. 23202.1234WO2

[0006] In some embodiments, a carrier for holding a plurality of containers may comprise a plurality of panels extending at least partially around an interior of the carrier. The plurality of panels may comprise a top panel, a bottom panel, and a side panel. The plurality of panels may further comprise a lower gusset foldably connected to the bottom panel and attached to a container of the plurality of containers.

[0007] In some embodiments, the carrier may further comprise a reinforcement panel foldably connected to the side panel and in at least partial face-to-face alignment with the side panel. In various embodiments, the lower gusset may be foldably connected to the reinforcement panel. In some embodiments, the lower gusset may comprise a first portion and a second portion foldably connected to the first portion. In various embodiments, the second portion may be attached to the container of the plurality of containers by an adhesive. In some embodiments, the carrier may further comprise an upper gusset foldably connected to the top panel and the reinforcement panel. In various embodiments, the carrier may further comprise a relief opening positioned between the upper gusset, the reinforcement panel, and the side panel. In some embodiments, the lower gusset may be a first lower gusset, the side panel may be a first side panel, and the bottom panel may be a first bottom panel. In various embodiments, the plurality of panels may further comprise a second side panel, a second bottom panel, a second lower gusset, a third lower gusset, and a fourth lower gusset. In some embodiments, the second lower gusset may be foldably connected to the first bottom panel. In various embodiments, the third lower gusset may be foldably connected to the second bottom panel. In some embodiments, the fourth lower gusset may be foldably connected to the second bottom panel.

[0008] In some embodiments, a blank for forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers may comprise a plurality of panels extending at least partially around an interior of the carrier when the blank may be erected. The plurality of panels may comprise a top panel, a bottom panel, and a side panel. The plurality of panels may further comprise a lower gusset foldably connected to the bottom panel, the lower gusset configured to be attached to a container of the plurality of containers when the blank may be erected.

[0009] In some embodiments, the blank may further comprise a reinforcement panel foldably connected to the side panel and arranged to be in at least partial face-to-face alignment with theAtorney Docket No. 23202.1234WO2side panel when the blank may be erected. In various embodiments, the lower gusset may be foldably connected to the reinforcement panel. In some embodiments, the lower gusset may comprise a first portion and a second portion foldably connected to the first portion. In various embodiments, the second portion may be arranged to be attached to the container of the plurality of containers by an adhesive when the blank may be erected. In some embodiments, the blank may further comprise an upper gusset foldably connected to the top panel and the reinforcement panel. In various embodiments, the blank may further comprise a relief opening positioned between the upper gusset, the reinforcement panel, and the side panel when the blank may be erected. In some embodiments, the lower gusset may be a first lower gusset, the side panel may be a first side panel, and the bottom panel may be a first bottom panel. In various embodiments, the plurality of panels may further comprise a second side panel, a second bottom panel, a second lower gusset, a third lower gusset, and a fourth lower gusset. In some embodiments, the second lower gusset may be foldably connected to the first bottom panel. In various embodiments, the third lower gusset may be foldably connected to the second bottom panel. In some embodiments, the fourth lower gusset may be foldably connected to the second bottom panel.

[0010] In some embodiments, a method for forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers from a blank may comprise erecting a plurality of panels to extend at least partially around an interior of the carrier, the plurality of panels comprising a top panel, a bottom panel, and a side panel. The method may further comprise folding a lower gusset that may be foldably connected to the bottom panel. The method may further comprise attaching the lower gusset to a container of the plurality of containers.

[0011] In some embodiments, the method may further comprise folding a reinforcement panel that may be foldably connected to the side panel into at least partial face-to-face alignment with the side panel. In various embodiments, the lower gusset may be foldably connected to the reinforcement panel, and the method may further comprise folding the lower gusset relative to the reinforcement panel. In some embodiments, the lower gusset may comprise a first portion and a second portion foldably connected to the first portion, and the method may further comprise folding the second portion relative to the first portion. In various embodiments, attaching the lower gusset to the container may comprise applying an adhesive to attach the second portion to the container. In some embodiments, the method may further comprise folding an upper gusset thatAttorney Docket No. 23202.1234WO2may be foldably connected to the top panel and the reinforcement panel. In various embodiments, the blank may comprise a relief opening positioned between the upper gusset, the reinforcement panel, and the side panel, and the method may further comprise positioning the relief opening to accommodate folding of the upper gusset, the reinforcement panel, and the side panel. In some embodiments, the lower gusset may be a first lower gusset, the side panel may be a first side panel, and the bottom panel may be a first bottom panel. In various embodiments, the plurality of panels may further comprise a second side panel, a second bottom panel, a second lower gusset, a third lower gusset, and a fourth lower gusset. In some embodiments, the method may further comprise folding the second lower gusset that may be foldably connected to the first bottom panel. In various embodiments, the method may further comprise folding the third lower gusset that may be foldably connected to the second bottom panel. In some embodiments, the method may further comprise folding the fourth lower gusset that may be foldably connected to the second bottom panel.

[0012] In some embodiments, a package may comprise a plurality of containers and a carrier holding the plurality of containers. The carrier may comprise a plurality of panels extending at least partially around an interior of the carrier, the plurality of panels comprising a top panel, a bottom panel, and a side panel. The carrier may further comprise a lower gusset foldably connected to the bottom panel and attached to a container of the plurality of containers.

[0013] In some embodiments, the carrier may further comprise a reinforcement panel foldably connected to the side panel and in at least partial face-to-face alignment with the side panel. In various embodiments, the lower gusset may be foldably connected to the reinforcement panel. In some embodiments, the lower gusset may comprise a first portion and a second portion foldably connected to the first portion. In various embodiments, the second portion may be attached to the container of the plurality of containers by an adhesive. In some embodiments, the carrier may further comprise an upper gusset foldably connected to the top panel and the reinforcement panel. In various embodiments, the carrier may further comprise a relief opening positioned between the upper gusset, the reinforcement panel, and the side panel. In some embodiments, the lower gusset may be a first lower gusset, the side panel may be a first side panel, and the bottom panel may be a first bottom panel. In various embodiments, the plurality of panels may further comprise a second side panel, a second bottom panel, a second lower gusset, a third lower gusset, and a fourth lower gusset. In some embodiments, the second lower gusset may be foldably connected to the firstAttorney Docket No. 23202.1234WO2bottom panel. In various embodiments, the third lower gusset may be foldably connected to the second bottom panel. In some embodiments, the fourth lower gusset may be foldably connected to the second bottom panel.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0014] 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.

[0015] Fig. 1 is a plan view of a blank for at least partially forming a carrier and package according to a first embodiment of the disclosure.

[0016] Fig. 2 is a plan view of a grouping of containers on the blank of Fig. 1.

[0017] Fig. 3A is a first sequential perspective view of a formation of a carrier and package from the blank of Fig. 1 according to the first embodiment of the disclosure.

[0018] Fig. 3B is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the blank of Fig. 3 A.

[0019] Fig.4 is a second sequential perspective view of a formation of a carrier and package from the blank of Fig. 1 according to the first embodiment of the disclosure.

[0020] Fig. 5 is a third sequential perspective view of a formation of a carrier and package from the blank of Fig. 1 according to the first embodiment of the disclosure.

[0021] Fig. 6 is a fourth sequential perspective view of a formation of a carrier and package from the blank of Fig. 1 according to the first embodiment of the disclosure.

[0022] Fig. 7 is an enlarged view of a portion of a carrier and package formed from the blank of Fig. 1 according to the first embodiment of the disclosure.

[0023] Fig. 8 is an enlarged view of a portion of the carrier and package of Fig. 7, showing movement of a gusset and container thereof.Attorney Docket No. 23202.1234WO2

[0024] Fig. 9 is a perspective view of a container suitable for use with carriers and packages according to the present disclosure.

[0025] Fig. 10 is a plan view of a blank for at least partially forming a carrier and package according to a second embodiment of the disclosure.

[0026] Fig. 11 is a plan view of a blank for at least partially forming a carrier and package according to a third embodiment of the disclosure.

[0027] Corresponding parts are designated by corresponding reference numbers throughout the drawings.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0028] 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.

[0029] Techniques disclosed herein relate generally to carriers for holding a plurality of containers. More specifically, techniques disclosed herein relate to carriers including a plurality of panels and a plurality of gussets that may provide both retention of containers within the carrier and distribution of stresses incurred during movement and manipulation of the carrier. Various embodiments are described herein, including carriers, blanks, methods of forming carriers, packages, and the like.

[0030] In order to better appreciate the features and aspects of the present disclosure, further context for the disclosure may be provided in the following section by discussing one particular implementation of a carrier that includes a plurality of panels and a plurality of gussets according to embodiments of the disclosure. These embodiments may be for explanatory purposes only and other embodiments may be employed in other packaging applications. For example, embodiments of the disclosure may be used with any carrier that holds, retains, or transports a plurality of containers. In some instances, embodiments of the disclosure may be particularly well suited forAttorney Docket No. 23202.1234WO2use with multi-container packaging arrangements because of capacity to distribute stresses incurred during movement and manipulation of the carrier.

[0031] The present disclosure relates to a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, a blank for forming such a carrier, a method of forming the carrier from the blank, and a package comprising the carrier holding a plurality of containers. In general terms, the carrier may be thought of as a sleeve-like structure that wraps around a group of containers, such as beverage cans, and holds them together as a unit for transport, retail display, and consumer use. The carrier may be formed from a flat sheet of paperboard or similar material, referred to as a blank, which may be pre-cut and pre-scored so that it may be folded into a three-dimensional carrier structure around the containers. The blank may include a plurality of panels that, when folded, extend around the containers to form the top, sides, and bottom of the carrier. The blank may further include a plurality of gussets that may be folded into position at the lower comers of the open ends of the carrier. Each gusset may be adhesively bonded to a lower portion of a respective container, so that the containers may be held in a fixed orientation within the carrier. The gussets may move with the containers during handling, and may slide relative to adjacent panels of the carrier, so that stresses incurred during movement of the carrier may be distributed rather than concentrated at any single point of attachment.

[0032] A further aspect of the carrier may relate to the manner in which the gussets may be configured to protect the adhesive bond between the gusset and the container. When the carrier and the containers held therein may be subjected to mechanical disturbances, such as vibrations or impacts during transportation, the gussets may flex and deform in a controlled manner. This controlled deformation may absorb and dissipate mechanical energy that would otherwise be transmitted directly to the adhesive bond as a peel, shear, or tensile stress. By absorbing such energy, the gussets may preserve the integrity of the adhesive bond, so that the containers may remain fixed in their predetermined orientation within the carrier throughout transportation and handling. The carrier may thus maintain the containers in an open-ended, sleeve-like arrangement, wherein the containers may be restricted from unintentionally slipping or falling away from the carrier during use.Attorney Docket No. 23202.1234WO2

[0033] 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.

[0034] 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.

[0035] In some embodiments, carriers and packages described herein can be configured to receive containers in the form of beverage cans. With momentary reference to Fig. 9, such containers C can have a lower base portion B, a top portion T generally comprising a neck N that tapers inwardly from the lower base portion B, a flange F at the top of the neck portion N that extends radially outward from the neck portion, and a top surface TS below the flange F that includes a pull-tab P. In some embodiments, the flange F can have the form of a rolled rim or chime for being engaged by one or more portions of the carrier / package, as described further herein.

[0036] Fig. 1 illustrates an exterior surface 101 of a blank 103 for forming a carrier 105 (Fig. 7) for holding a plurality of containers C. The carrier 105 can be provided with one or more containers C as a package 107.

[0037] As shown, the blank 103 can have a longitudinal axis LI and a lateral axis L2. It will be understood that the axes LI, L2 could be transposed or otherwise oriented without departing from the disclosure.

[0038] As described herein, the containers C can be provided in the carrier 105 in a row and column arrangement. In some embodiments, the containers C could be provided in three rowsAttorney Docket No. 23202.1234WO2(each row extending along the longitudinal axis LI or a direction parallel thereto) of two columns (each column extending along the lateral axis L2 or a direction parallel thereto), e.g., a 3 x 2 arrangement, though the containers C could be provided in a different arrangement without departing from the disclosure.

[0039] As shown, the blank of Fig. 1 can include a plurality of panels for extending at least partially around an interior 108 (see Fig. 7) of the carrier 105, and can include a top panel 121, a first upper bevel panel 123 foldably connected to the top panel 121 at a lateral fold line 125, and a second upper bevel panel 127 foldably connected to the top panel 121 at a lateral fold line 129.

[0040] A first side panel 131 can be foldably connected to the first upper bevel panel 123 at a lateral fold line 133, and a second side panel 135 can be foldably connected to the second upper bevel panel 127 at a lateral fold line 137. As shown, a first lower bevel panel 139 can be foldably connected to the side panel 131 at a lateral fold line 141, and a second lower bevel panel 143 can be foldably connected to the second side panel 135 at a lateral fold line 145.

[0041] A first bottom panel 147 can be foldably connected to the first lower bevel panel 139 at a lateral fold line 149, and a second bottom panel 151 can be foldably connected to the second lower bevel panel 143 at a lateral fold line 153.

[0042] The bottom panels 147, 151, as shown, can include closure features or locking features for forming a closed bottom of the carrier 105 / package 107. In the illustrated embodiment, a plurality of first primary locking tabs 155 can be foldably connected to the second bottom panel 151 at respective lateral fold lines 157, and a plurality of second or secondary locking tabs 159 can be separably connected to the second bottom panel 151 at respective curved cuts 161 that interrupt a lateral fold line 163.

[0043] With continued reference to Fig. 1, the first bottom panel 147 can include a plurality of first or primary locking openings 165 for at least partially receiving a respective locking tab 155 therethrough, and a plurality of second or secondary locking openings at least partially obscured by a respective locking flap 167. Each locking flap 167, as shown, can be separably connected to the first bottom panel 147 at a respective cut 169 and can be at least partially separably and / or foldably connected thereto at a respective line of weakening 171.Attorney Docket No. 23202.1234WO2

[0044] The blank 103 and carrier 105 / package 107 formed therefrom can additionally include a plurality of end flaps foldably connected to a respective panel of the plurality of panels. The plurality of end flaps can include a first side reinforcement panel 173 foldably connected to the first side panel 131 at a longitudinal fold line 175, a second side reinforcement panel 177 foldably connected to the first side panel 131 at a longitudinal fold line 179, a third side reinforcement panel 181 foldably connected to the second side panel 135 at a longitudinal fold line 183, and a fourth side reinforcement panel 185 foldably connected to the second side panel 135 at a longitudinal fold line 187.

[0045] A plurality of gussets can further be foldably connected to a respective panel of the plurality of panels. In some embodiments, the plurality of gussets can be end flaps of the plurality of end flaps. The plurality of gussets can include a first upper gusset 189 foldably connected to the top panel 121 at an oblique fold line 191 and foldably connected to the first reinforcement panel 173 at an oblique fold line 193. A relief opening 195 can be at least partially positioned between the first upper gusset 189, the first upper bevel panel 123, the first side panel 131, and the first reinforcement panel 173. In some embodiments, a relief cut can extend from the fold line 193 to a free edge of the blank 103.

[0046] Similarly, a second upper gusset 197 can be foldably connected to the top panel 121 at an oblique fold line 199, and can be foldably connected to the second reinforcement panel 177 at an oblique fold line 201. A relief opening 203 can be at least partially positioned between the second upper gusset 197, the first upper bevel panel 123, the first side panel 131, and the second reinforcement panel 177. A relief cut can extend from the fold line 201 to a free edge of the blank 103.

[0047] A third upper gusset 205 can be foldably connected to the top panel 121 at an oblique fold line 207, and can be foldably connected to the third reinforcement panel 181 at an oblique fold line 209. A relief opening 211 can be at least partially positioned between the third upper gusset 205, the second upper bevel panel 127, the second side panel 135, and the third reinforcement panel 181. A relief cut can extend from the fold line 209 to a free edge of the blank 103.

[0048] As shown, a fourth upper gusset 213 can be foldably connected to the top panel 121 at an oblique fold line 215, and can be foldably connected to the fourth reinforcement panel 185 at anAttorney Docket No. 23202.1234WO2oblique fold line 217. A relief opening 219 can be at least partially positioned between the fourth upper gusset 213, the second upper bevel panel 127, the second side panel 135, and the fourth reinforcement panel 185. A relief cut can extend from the fold line 217 to a free edge of the blank 103.

[0049] Still referring to Fig. 1, a first lower gusset 221 can be at least partially foldably connected to the first bottom panel 147 at an oblique fold line 223 and can be at least partially foldably connected to the first reinforcement panel 173 at an oblique fold line 225. The first lower gusset 221 can be at least partially separably connected to the first lower bevel panel 139 and the first side panel 131 at respective portions of a cut 227 that extends from an endpoint of the fold line 223 to an endpoint of the fold line 225 and which includes one or more of curved, straight, and angled portions. A relief cut can further extend from an endpoint of the fold line 225 to a free edge of the blank 103. The first lower gusset 221 can include a first portion 229 foldably connected to a second portion 231 at an oblique fold line 233 that intersects the cut 227.

[0050] Similarly, a second lower gusset 228 can be at least partially foldably connected to the second bottom panel 147 at an oblique fold line 230 and can be at least partially foldably connected to the second reinforcement panel 177 at an oblique fold line 234. The second lower gusset 228 can be at least partially separably connected to the first lower bevel panel 139 and the first side panel 131 at respective portions of a cut 235 that extends from an endpoint of the fold line 230 to an endpoint of the fold line 234 and which includes one or more of curved, straight, and angled portions. A relief cut can further extend from an endpoint of the fold fine 234 to a free edge of the blank 103. The second lower gusset 228 can include a first portion 237 foldably connected to a second portion 239 at an oblique fold line 241 that intersects the cut 235.

[0051] With continued reference to Fig. 1, a third lower gusset 243 can be at least partially foldably connected to the second bottom panel 151 at an oblique fold line 245 and can be at least partially foldably connected to the third reinforcement panel 181 at an oblique fold line 247. The third lower gusset 243 can be at least partially separably connected to the second lower bevel panel 143 and the second side panel 135 at respective portions of a cut 249 that extends from an endpoint of the fold line 245 to an endpoint of the fold line 247 and which includes one or more of curved, straight, and angled portions. A relief cut can further extend from an endpoint of the fold line 247Attorney Docket No. 23202.1234WO2to a free edge of the blank 103. The third lower gusset 243 can include a first portion 251 foldably connected to a second portion 253 at an oblique fold line 255 that intersects the cut 249.

[0052] A fourth lower gusset 257 can be at least partially foldably connected to the second bottom panel 151 at an oblique fold line 259 and can be at least partially foldably connected to the fourth reinforcement panel 185 at an oblique fold line 261. The fourth lower gusset 257 can be at least partially separably connected to the second lower bevel panel 143 and the second side panel 135 at respective portions of a cut 263 that extends from an endpoint of the fold line 259 to an endpoint of the fold line 261 and which includes one or more of curved, straight, and angled portions. A relief cut can further extend from an endpoint of the fold line 261 to a free edge of the blank 103. The fourth lower gusset 257, as shown, can include a first portion 265 foldably connected to a second portion 267 at an oblique fold line 269 that intersects the cut 263.

[0053] The blank 103 and the carrier 105 / package 107 formed therefrom can further include handle features that can include a pair of spaced apart handle openings at least partially defined in the top panel 121 and at least partially obscured by a respective handle reinforcement flap 271, 273.

[0054] The handle reinforcement flap 271 can be separably connected to the top panel 121 at a curved cut 275 and can be at least partially foldably connected thereto at a respective longitudinal fold line 277. A pair of oblique lines of weakening can extend at least partially across the handle reinforcement flap 271, as shown.

[0055] Similarly, the handle reinforcement flap 273 can be separably connected to the top panel 121 at a curved cut 279 and can be at least partially foldably connected thereto at a respective longitudinal fold line 281. A pair of oblique lines of weakening can extend at least partially across the handle reinforcement flap 273, as shown.

[0056] Turning now to Figs. 2-8, formation of the carrier 105 and package 107 from the blank 103 will be described according to embodiments of the disclosure. The blank 103 can be inverted, e.g., such that an interior surface 102 is positioned facing upwardly. A grouping of the containers C, as shown in Fig. 2, can be positioned in an inverted arrangement along respective portions of the top panel 121.Atorney Docket No. 23202.1234WO2

[0057] With reference to Fig. 3A and Fig. 3B, the first upper bevel panel 123 can be at least partially folded at the fold line 125 into generally oblique relation with the top panel 121, and the first side panel 131 can be at least partially folded at the fold line 133 into generally upright relation with respect to the first upper bevel panel 123 and the top panel 121.

[0058] As shown in Fig. 4, simultaneously therewith, prior to, or following, such movement of the panels 123, 131, the reinforcement panels 181, 185 can be at least partially folded at the fold lines 183, 187 in the direction of the respective arrows Al, A2 into at least partial overlapping relation with respective portions of the second side panel 135.

[0059] With continued reference to Fig. 4, the aforementioned movement of the third reinforcement panel 181 can cause the third upper gusset 205 to at least partially fold at the respective fold lines 207, 209 into generally oblique relation with each of the top panel 121 and the second side panel 135. Similarly, the fourth upper gusset 213 can at least partially fold at the respective fold lines 215, 217 into generally oblique relation with each of the top panel 121 and the second side panel 135. In some embodiments, the relief openings 211, 219 can facilitate such movement of the upper gussets 205, 213, e.g., by creating a clearance space for relative movement of adjacent panels, to avoid bunching and / or the distribution of material stresses, etc.

[0060] As shown in Fig. 4 and Fig. 5, such movement of the reinforcement panel 181 can also cause the first portion 251 of the third lower gusset 243 to at least partially fold relative to the second bottom panel 151 at the fold line 245, can cause the second portion 253 of the third lower gusset 243 to at least partially fold relative to the third reinforcement panel 181 at the fold line 247, and can cause the first portion 251 of the first lower gusset 243 to at least partially fold relative to the second portion 253 thereof at the fold line 255.

[0061] This movement of the third lower gusset 243 can be facilitated by at least partial separation from respective portions of the second lower bevel panel 143 and the second side panel 135 at respective portions of the cut 249 and at the relief cut extending from the fold line 247.

[0062] Similarly, movement of the fourth reinforcement panel 185 can cause the first portion 265 of the fourth lower gusset 257 to at least partially fold relative to the second bottom panel 151 at the fold line 259, can cause the second portion 267 of the fourth lower gusset 257 to at leastAttorney Docket No. 23202.1234WO2partially fold relative to the fourth reinforcement panel 185 at the fold line 261, and can cause the first portion 265 of the fourth lower gusset 257 to at least partially fold relative to the second portion 267 thereof at the fold line 269.

[0063] This movement of the fourth lower gusset 257 can be facilitated by at least partial separation from respective portions of the second lower bevel panel 143 and the second side panel 135 at respective portions of the cut 263 and at the relief cut extending from the fold line 261.

[0064] The reinforcement panels 173, 177 can similarly be at least partially folded at the fold lines 175, 179 into at least partial overlapping relation with respective portions of the first side panel 131.

[0065] The aforementioned movement of the first reinforcement panel 173 can cause the first upper gusset 189 to at least partially fold at the respective fold lines 191 , 193 into generally oblique relation with each of the top panel 121 and the first side panel 131. Similarly, the second upper gusset 197 can at least partially fold at the respective fold lines 199, 201 into generally oblique relation with each of the top panel 121 and the first side 131. In some embodiments, the relief openings 195, 203 can facilitate such movement of the upper gussets 189, 197, e.g., by creating a clearance space for relative movement of adjacent panels, to avoid bunching and / or the distribution of material stresses, etc.

[0066] The movement of the first reinforcement panel 173 can further cause the first portion 229 of the first lower gusset 221 to at least partially fold relative to the first bottom panel 147 at the fold line 223, can cause the second portion 231 of the first lower gusset 221 to at least partially fold relative to the first reinforcement panel 173 at the fold line 225, and can cause the first portion 229 of the first lower gusset 221 to at least partially fold relative to the second portion 231 thereof at the fold line 233.

[0067] In order to facilitate such movement of the first lower gusset 221 , the first lower gusset 221 can at least partially separate from respective portions of the first lower bevel panel 139 and the first side panel 131 at respective portions of the cut 227 and at the relief cut extending from the fold line 225.Attorney Docket No. 23202.1234WO2

[0068] Similarly, movement of the second reinforcement panel 177 can further cause the first portion 237 of the second lower gusset 228 to at least partially fold relative to the first bottom panel 147 at the fold line 230, can cause the second portion 239 of the second lower gusset 228 to at least partially fold relative to the second reinforcement panel 177 at the fold line 234, and can cause the first portion 237 of the second lower gusset 228 to at least partially fold relative to the second portion 239 thereof at the fold line 241.

[0069] Such movement of the second lower gusset 228 can be facilitated by at least partial separation from respective portions of the first lower bevel panel 139 and the first side panel 131 at respective portions of the cut 235 and at the relief cut extending from the fold line 234.

[0070] With reference to Fig. 6, the lower bevel panels 139, 143 can be folded into generally oblique relation with respect to the side panels 131, 135 at the respective fold lines 141, 145, the second bottom panel 151 can be at least partially folded at the fold line 153 over the bottom ends of respective containers C, and the first bottom panel 147 can be at least partially folded at the fold line 149 into at least partial face-to-face contact with the second bottom panel 151.

[0071] In order to form a closed bottom 109 of the carrier 105 / package 107, the primary locking tabs 155 can be at least partially inserted through the respective primary locking openings 165 in the first bottom panel 147. Furthermore, the secondary locking tabs 159 can be at least partially separated from the second bottom panel 151 at the respective cuts 161 and at least partially positioned extending through respective secondary locking openings at least partially exposed by the locking flaps 167.

[0072] Such locking openings can be at least partially exposed via at least partial separation of the locking flaps 167 from the first bottom panel 147 at the respective cuts 169 and / or lines of weakening 171, and relative movement of the secondary locking tabs 159 can be facilitated via at least partial flexing of a free end portion of the second bottom panel 151 relative to a remainder thereof at the fold line 163.

[0073] With reference again to Fig. 1, the second portions 231, 239, 253, 267 of the respective lower gussets 221, 228, 243, 257 can receive one or more applications of an adhesive such as glue G therealong such that upon formation of the carrier 105 and package 107 described above, theAttorney Docket No. 23202.1234WO2second portions 231, 239, 253, 267 of the respective gussets 221, 228, 243, 257 can be adhered to lower portions of the respective containers C. In some embodiments, the glue G can be a hot melt glue having a melting point between about 130 degrees Celsius and about 190 degrees Celsius, for example, about 145 degrees Celsius.

[0074] In this regard, and with particular reference to Figs. 7 and 8 movement of a respective container C adhered to a respective lower gusset 221, 228, 243, 257, e.g., at an outside comer of the carrier 105 / package 107, can carry the respective lower gusset 221, 228, 243, 257 to move therewith in the direction of the bi-directional arrow A3. In this regard, the respective lower gusset 221, 228, 243, 257 can at least partially slide along a respective adjacent reinforcement panel 173, 177, 181, 185, for example, to facilitate distribution of stresses incurred during movement and / or manipulation of the carrier 105 / package 107.

[0075] Furthermore, the attachment of the respective lower gussets 221, 228, 243, 257 to respective containers C can maintain the arrangement of containers C in the interior 108 of the carrier 105 / package 107 in an open-ended, sleeve-like arrangement, e.g., such that respective containers C are restricted from unintentionally slipping, reorienting, rotating or falling away from the carrier 105 / package 107 during use.

[0076] With reference to Fig. 10, a blank 1003 represents a second embodiment of a blank for forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers. Similar elements between the blank 1003 and the blank 103 can have identical element numbers. The blank 1003 may be similar to the blank 103 of Fig. 1, but some of the longitudinal fold lines of blank 103 may be replaced by oblique fold lines in blank 1003. For example, the longitudinal fold line 175 of blank 103 may be replaced by an oblique fold line 1075 in blank 1003. Similarly, other longitudinal fold lines such as fold lines 179, 183, and 187 of blank 103 may be replaced by corresponding oblique fold lines 1079, 1083, and 1087 respectively in blank 1003. The oblique orientation of these fold lines may facilitate improved folding characteristics and stress distribution during formation of the carrier from the blank 1003.

[0077] With reference to Fig. 11, a blank 1103 represents a third embodiment of a blank for forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers. Similar elements between the blank 1103 and the blank 103 can have identical element numbers. The blank 1103 may be similar to the blankAttorney Docket No. 23202.1234WO2103 of Fig. 1, but blank 1103 may include additional oblique fold lines defined in the side panels. For example, blank 1103 may include an oblique fold line 1183 defined in the first side panel 131, which may provide enhanced folding control and structural integrity during carrier formation. These additional oblique fold lines may facilitate more precise panel positioning and may contribute to improved stress distribution throughout the carrier structure when formed from blank 1103.

[0078] It will be understood that one or more of the blanks, carriers, packages, and portions thereof, can have a different arrangement and / or configuration without departing from the disclosure.

[0079] 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.

[0080] 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.

[0081] 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 fine. The nicks typically are a relatively smallAttorney Docket No. 23202.1234WO2percentage 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.

[0082] In accordance with the 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.

[0083] 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.

[0084] 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 microwave 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.Attorney Docket No. 23202.1234WO2

[0085] 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.

[0086] The foregoing description of the disclosure illustrates and describes various embodiments. Various additions, modifications, changes, etc., could be made to the 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

Attorney Docket No. 23202.1234WO2WHAT IS CLAIMED IS:

1. A carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the carrier comprising:a plurality of panels extending at least partially around an interior of the carrier, the plurality of panels comprising:a top panel, a bottom panel, and a side panel; anda lower gusset foldably connected to the bottom panel and attached to a container of the plurality of containers.

2. The carrier of claim 1, further comprising a reinforcement panel foldably connected to the side panel and in at least partial face-to-face alignment with the side panel.

3. The carrier of claim 2, wherein the lower gusset is foldably connected to the reinforcement panel.

4. The carrier of claim 1, wherein the lower gusset comprises a first portion and a second portion foldably connected to the first portion.

5. The carrier of claim 4, wherein the second portion is attached to the container of the plurality of containers by an adhesive.

6. The carrier of claim 2, further comprising an upper gusset foldably connected to the top panel and the reinforcement panel.

7. The carrier of claim 6, further comprising a relief opening positioned between the upper gusset, the reinforcement panel, and the side panel.

8. The carrier of claim 1, wherein the lower gusset is a first lower gusset, the side panel is a first side panel, the bottom panel is a first bottom panel, wherein the plurality of panels further comprises a second side panel, a second bottom panel, a second lower gusset, a third lower gusset, and a fourth lower gusset, wherein the second lower gusset is foldably connected to the first bottomAtorney Docket No. 23202.1234WO2panel, wherein the third lower gusset is foldably connected to the second bottom panel and wherein the fourth lower gusset is foldably connected to the second bottom panel.

9. A blank for forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the blank comprising:a plurality of panels extending at least partially around an interior of the carrier when the blank is erected, the plurality of panels comprising:a top panel, a bottom panel, a side panel; anda lower gusset foldably connected to the bottom panel, the lower gusset configured to be attached to a container of the plurality of containers when the blank is erected.

10. The blank of claim 9, further comprising a reinforcement panel foldably connected to the side panel and arranged to be in at least partial face-to-face alignment with the side panel when the blank is erected.

11. The blank of claim 10, wherein the lower gusset is foldably connected to the reinforcement panel.

12. The blank of claim 9, wherein the lower gusset comprises a first portion and a second portion foldably connected to the first portion.

13. The blank of claim 12, wherein the second portion is arranged to be attached to the container of the plurality of containers by an adhesive when the blank is erected.

14. The blank of claim 10, further comprising an upper gusset foldably connected to the top panel and the reinforcement panel.

15. The blank of claim 14, further comprising a relief opening positioned between the upper gusset, the reinforcement panel, and the side panel when the blank is erected.Attorney Docket No. 23202.1234WO216. The blank of claim 9, wherein the lower gusset is a first lower gusset, the side panel is a first side panel, the bottom panel is a first bottom panel, the plurality of panels further comprising a second side panel, a second bottom panel, a second lower gusset, a third lower gusset, and a fourth lower gusset, wherein the second lower gusset is foldably connected to the first bottom panel, wherein the third lower gusset is foldably connected to the second bottom panel and wherein the fourth lower gusset is foldably connected to the second bottom panel.

17. A method for forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers from a blank, the method comprising:erecting a plurality of panels to extend at least partially around an interior of the carrier, the plurality of panels comprising:a top panel, a bottom panel, and a side panel;folding a lower gusset that is foldably connected to the bottom panel; and attaching the lower gusset to a container of the plurality of containers.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising folding a reinforcement panel that is foldably connected to the side panel into at least partial face-to-face alignment with the side panel.

19. The method of claim 18, wherein the lower gusset is foldably connected to the reinforcement panel, and the method further comprises folding the lower gusset relative to the reinforcement panel.

20. The method of claim 17, wherein the lower gusset comprises a first portion and a second portion foldably connected to the first portion, and the method further comprises folding the second portion relative to the first portion.

21. The method of claim 20, wherein attaching the lower gusset to the container comprises applying an adhesive to attach the second portion to the container.Atorney Docket No. 23202.1234WO222. The method of claim 18, further comprising folding an upper gusset that is foldably connected to the top panel and the reinforcement panel.

23. The method of claim 22, wherein the blank comprises a relief opening positioned between the upper gusset, the reinforcement panel, and the side panel, and the method further comprises positioning the relief opening to accommodate folding of the upper gusset, the reinforcement panel, and the side panel.

24. The method of claim 17, wherein the lower gusset is a first lower gusset, the side panel is a first side panel, the bottom panel is a first bottom panel, the plurality of panels further comprises a second side panel, a second bottom panel, a second lower gusset, a third lower gusset, and a fourth lower gusset, and the method further comprises folding the second lower gusset that is foldably connected to the first bottom panel, folding the third lower gusset that is foldably connected to the second bottom panel and folding the fourth lower gusset that is foldably connected to the second bottom panel.

25. A package comprising:a plurality of containers; anda carrier holding the plurality of containers, the carrier comprising:a plurality of panels extending at least partially around an interior of the carrier, the plurality of panels comprising:a top panel, a bottom panel, and a side panel; anda lower gusset foldably connected to the bottom panel and attached to a container of the plurality of containers.

26. The package of claim 25, wherein the carrier further comprises a reinforcement panel foldably connected to the side panel and in at least partial face-to-face alignment with the side panel.Atorney Docket No. 23202.1234WO227. The package of claim 26, wherein the lower gusset is foldably connected to the reinforcement panel.

28. The package of claim 25, wherein the lower gusset comprises a first portion and a second portion foldably connected to the first portion.

29. The package of claim 28, wherein the second portion is attached to the container of the plurality of containers by an adhesive.

30. The package of claim 26, wherein the carrier further comprises an upper gusset foldably connected to the top panel and the reinforcement panel.

31. The package of claim 30, wherein the carrier further comprises a relief opening positioned between the upper gusset, the reinforcement panel, and the side panel.

32. The package of claim 25, wherein the lower gusset is a first lower gusset, the side panel is a first side panel, the bottom panel is a first bottom panel, the plurality of panels further comprises a second side panel, a second bottom panel, a second lower gusset, a third lower gusset, and a fourth lower gusset, wherein the second lower gusset is foldably connected to the first bottom panel, wherein the third lower gusset is foldably connected to the second bottom panel and wherein the fourth lower gusset is foldably connected to the second bottom panel.

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