AU2013323549A1

AU2013323549A1 - Package for articles, carton and blank therefor

Info

Publication number: AU2013323549A1
Application number: AU2013323549A
Authority: AU
Inventors: Jean-Michel Garnier
Original assignee: Meadwestvaco Packaging Systems LLC
Current assignee: WestRock Packaging Systems LLC
Priority date: 2012-09-26
Filing date: 2013-09-26
Publication date: 2015-04-02
Also published as: CN104870331A; WO2014052514A2; WO2014052514A3

Abstract

A carton forms a belt-like structure about one or more articles. The panels of the carton include a first linear series of panels including a first end panel, a first side panel and at least one wing panel and a second linear series of panels including a second end panel, a second side panel and at least one securing panel. The second linear series of panels is secured at each end to the first linear series of panels to form a loop. The at least one securing panel is secured to the at least one wing panel. The at least one securing panel and the at least one wing panel are folded to form a three ply structure with the first side panel or the second side panel.

Description

WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 PACKAGE FOR ARTICLES, CARTON AND BLANK THEREFOR TECHNICAL FIELD The present invention relates to a package, carton and blank for forming a carton, more specifically, but not exclusively, to a strap or loop for enclosing a group of articles, the strap having a handle structure so as to facilitate carrying of the group of articles, more particularly, but not exclusively, to a handle structure that can be tightened in situ about an article or group of articles. BACKGROUND In the field of packaging it is often required to provide consumers with a package comprising multiple primary product containers. Such multi-packs are desirable for shipping and distribution and for display of promotional information. For cost and environmental considerations, such cartons or carriers need to be formed from as little material as possible, and cause as little wastage in the materials from which they are formed as possible. Another consideration is the strength of the packaging and its suitability for holding and transporting large weights of articles. It is desirable to provide a carrying handle for a user to grasp when transporting the primary product containers. It is also desirable for the carton to be readily assembled into a package and for the carton to be close fitting about the article/s to be packaged. The present invention seeks to overcome or at least mitigate the problems of the prior art. SUMMARY Aspects of the invention provide a package, a carton, and a blank as claimed in the appended claims. According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a carton comprising a plurality of panels for forming a belt-like structure about one or more articles, the plurality of panels comprising a first linear series of panels including a first end panel, a first side panel, a second side panel, a first wing panel and a second wing panel and a second linear series of panels including a second end panel, a third side panel, a fourth side panel, a first securing panel and a second securing panel, the second linear series of panels being secured at each end to the first linear series of panels to form a loop, the first WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 -2 securing panel being secured to the first wing panel, the second securing panel being secured to the second wing panel, wherein the first securing panel is hinged to the third side panel by a first hinged connection and the second securing panel is hinged to the fourth side panel by a second hinged connection, and the first wing panel is hinged to the first side panel by a third hinged connection and the second wing panel is hinged to the second side panel by a fourth hinged connection, and wherein the first securing panel and the first wing panel are folded about one of the first and third hinged connections to form a three ply structure, and the second securing panel and the second wing panel are folded about one of the second or fourth hinged connections to form a three ply structure. Preferably, the first side panel and the third side panel form a first side wall of the carton. Preferably, the second side panel and the fourth side panel form a second side wall of the carton. Preferably, the first wing panel is secured to one of the first end panel, second end panel, first side panel or third side panel. Preferably, the second wing panel is secured to one of the first end panel, second end panel, second side panel or fourth side panel. Preferably, the hinged connection between the first securing panel and the third side panel is offset from the hinged connection between the first wing panel and the first side panel and wherein the hinged connection between the second securing panel and the fourth side panel is offset from the hinged connection between the second wing panel and the second side panel, and wherein the length of the loop is dependent upon which of the first and third hinged connections the first wing panel and the first securing panel are folded about and upon which of the second and fourth hinged connections the second wing panel and second securing panel are folded about. According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a carton comprising a plurality of panels for forming a belt-like structure about one or more articles, the plurality of panels comprising a first linear series of panels including a first end panel, a first side panel and at least one wing panel and a second linear series of panels including a second end panel, a second side panel and at least one securing panel, the second linear series of panels being secured at each end to the first linear series of WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 -3 panels to form a loop, the at least one securing panel being secured to the at least one wing panel, the at least one securing panel and the at least one wing panel being folded to form a three ply structure with the first side panel or second side panel, and wherein the at least one wing panel is secured to one of the first side panel, second side panel, first end panel or second end panel. According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a blank comprising a plurality of panels for forming a belt, the blank comprising a first series of panels comprising a first side panel, a front panel and a second side panel, and a second series of panels comprising a rear panel, a hinge panel and an intermediate panel, the hinge panel being hinged along a first edge to the intermediate panel by a first fold line, the intermediate panel being hinged to the rear panel, the hinge panel being hinged to the first side panel along a second adjacent edge by a second fold line, wherein in a set-up condition the intermediate panel is folded about the first fold line so as to be in at least partial overlapping relationship with the hinge panel. Optionally, the second series of panel comprises a second hinge panel and a second intermediate panel, the second hinge panel being hinged along a first edge to the second intermediate panel by a third fold line, the intermediate panel being hinged to the rear panel, the hinge panel being hinged to the second side panel along a second adjacent edge by a fourth fold line wherein in a set-up condition the second intermediate panel is folded about the third fold line so as to be in at least partial overlapping relationship with the second hinge panel. Preferably, the blank comprises a third series of panels forming reinforcing panels for reinforcing at least the front panel, the third series of panels being hinged to the first series of panels along an edge thereof, the edge opposing the second adjacent edge to which the hinge panel is foldably attached. According to a fourth aspect of the present invention there is provided a carton for packaging one or more articles comprising a first series of panels comprising a first side panel, a front panel and a second side panel, and a second series of panel comprising a rear panel, a hinge panel and an intermediate panel, the hinge panel being hinged along a first edge to the intermediate panel by a first fold line, the intermediate panel being hinged to the rear panel, the hinge panel being hinged to the first side panel along a second adjacent edge by a second fold line, wherein in a set-up condition the intermediate panel WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 -4 is folded about the first fold line so as to be in at least partial overlapping relationship with the hinge panel and one panel of the first series of panels thereby forming a three ply structure. According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a carton comprising a plurality of panels for surrounding one or more articles, the plurality of panels comprising a first linear series of panels and a second linear series of panels, the second linear series of panels being secured at each end to the first linear series of panels to form a loop, the first linear series of panels comprising at least one outer side panel and the second linear series of panels comprising at least one inner side panel, the at least one outer side panel comprising a first fold line to define a first portion and a second portion and the at least one inner side panel comprising a second fold line to define a first portion and a second portion, wherein the second portion of the at least one outer side panel is secured to the second portion of the at least one inner side panel such that the first fold line is offset longitudinally with respect to the second fold line, and wherein the length of the loop is dependent upon whether the carton is folded about the first or second fold line. Preferably, the carton comprises a first arrangement in which the carton is folded about the first fold line, and a second arrangement in which the carton is folded about the second fold line, wherein in the first arrangement, the length of the loop formed by the carton is greater than the length of the loop formed by the carton when it is disposed in the second arrangement. Optionally, the carton comprises at least one securing panel hingedly connected to the second portion of the at least one outer side panel for securing the carton in the second arrangement. Optionally, the first fold line is circumferentially spaced apart from the second fold line. In some embodiments, one of the plurality of panels is a handle panel. The carton may comprise a reinforcing strip secured to the handle panel. Optionally, the plurality of panels comprises a plurality of side panels.

WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 -5 In some embodiments the carton comprises at least one corner panel disposed between each pair of adjacent side panels. Optionally, the carton comprises two corner panels disposed between each pair of adjacent side panels. Preferably, in the second arrangement, the at least one inner side panel is folded about the second fold line such that the first portion is disposed in overlapping relationship with the second portion, and wherein the first and second portions of the at least one inner side panel and the second portion of the at least one outer side panel form a three ply structure. According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a package comprising one or more articles, a carton surrounding the one or more articles and a film of material disposed about the one or more articles and the carton, the carton comprising a plurality of panels, the plurality of panels comprising a first linear series of panels and a second linear series of panels, the second linear series of panels being secured at each end to the first linear series of panels to form a loop, the first linear series of panels comprising at least one outer side panel and the second linear series of panels comprising at least one inner side panel, the at least one outer side panel comprising a first fold line to define a first portion and a second portion and the at least one inner side panel comprising a second fold line to define a first portion and a second portion, wherein the second portion of the at least one outer side panel is secured to the second portion of the at least one inner side panel such that the first fold line is offset longitudinally with respect to the second fold line, and wherein the length of the loop is dependent upon whether the carton is folded about the first or second fold line. Preferably, the carton is a belt forming a tubular structure about the one or more articles, the belt having a tubular axis which is substantially perpendicular to a base of the articles. In some embodiments the carton is an open-ended tubular structure disposed about the article group, the carton having a tubular axis which is substantially parallel to a tubular axis of the articles. Optionally, the package comprises a plurality of articles which are held together within the carton by the film of plastic material.

WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 -6 In some embodiments, the film of material is made from a plastic material such as, but not limited to, polyolefin, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or polyethylene, heat shrinkable material or other material having plastic properties. Optionally, the film of material comprises an aperture, and the carton comprises a handle structure accessible through the aperture. According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a blank comprising a plurality of panels for forming a carton for surrounding one or more articles, the blank comprising a first linear series of panels and a second linear series of panels, the first linear series of panels comprising at least one outer side panel and the second linear series of panels comprising at least one inner side panel, the at least one outer side panel comprising a first fold line to define a first portion and a second portion and the at least one inner side panel comprising a second fold line to define a first portion and a second portion, wherein in a set-up carton, the second linear series of panels is secured at each end to the first linear series of panels to form a loop, and the second portion of the at least one outer side panel is secured to the second portion of the at least one inner side panel such that the first fold line is offset longitudinally with respect to the second fold line, and wherein the length of the loop is dependent upon whether the blank is folded about the first or second fold line. Optionally, the second linear series of panels is hingedly connected at each end thereof by a pair of hinge lines, along a side edge of the second linear series of panels, to portions of a side edge of the first linear series of panels. Preferably, a cutline or weakened line of severance is disposed between the pair of hinge lines. According to an eighth aspect of the present invention there is provided a package comprising a plurality of articles arranged in a group comprising columns of articles, the article group comprising a first column of articles having a first dimension disposed between a second and third column of articles having a second dimension wherein the first dimension is less than the second dimension so as to define a recess at least at one end of the first column between the second and third columns of articles, the package comprising a carton surrounding the plurality of articles, wherein a film of material is disposed about the plurality of articles and the carton, the carton having a handle structure, the handle structure having a WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 -7 central grip portion for being grasped by a user, wherein the central grip portion is disposed adjacent to the recess creating a void between the central grip portion and the at least one end of the first column for receiving at least a portion of a user's hand. According to a ninth aspect of the present invention there is provided a package comprising a plurality of articles arranged in a group comprising columns of articles, the article group comprising a first column of articles having a first dimension disposed adjacent to a second column of articles having a second dimension wherein the first dimension is less than the second dimension so as to define an article group having at least one bevelled corner, the package comprising a carton surrounding the plurality of articles, the carton having a handle structure, the handle structure having a central grip portion for being grasped by a user, the carton comprising a first panel and a second panel adjacent and coupled to the first panel, wherein the first and second panels are tightened about the endmost article in the first column and the endmost article of the second column of the at least one bevelled corner such that the carton comprises a bevelled corner. Optionally, the carton is a belt forming a tubular structure about the article group, the belt having a tubular axis which is substantially perpendicular to a base of the articles. Optionally, the carton is an open-ended tubular structure disposed about the article group, the carton having a tubular axis which is substantially parallel to a tubular axis of the articles. Optionally, the articles are held together within the carton by the film of plastic material. Optionally, the film of material is made from a plastic material such as, but not limited to, polyolefin, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or polyethylene, heat shrinkable material or other material having plastic properties. According to a tenth aspect of the present invention there is provided a carton comprising a series of panels for surrounding a group of articles, the carton comprising a first side panel and a second side panel, a rear panel and a front panel, wherein the carton comprises a handle structure comprising a handle strap extending across the front panel and into the first and second side panels, the carton comprising a first and second reinforcing panel disposed on opposing sides of a third reinforcing panel, WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 -8 wherein the first reinforcing panel overlies at least in part the first side panel, the second reinforcing panel overlies at least in part the second side panel and the third reinforcing panel overlies the front panel, the third reinforcing panel comprising at least one handle strap reinforcing panel struck therefrom and wherein the handle strap is severable from the front panel and the at least one handle strap reinforcing panel is severable from the third reinforcing panel. Optionally, the handle strap comprises a central portion severably connected to a first end portion and a second end portion. In some embodiments the central portion is struck from the front panel and the first end portion is struck in part from the front panel and in part from the first side panel and a second end portion is struck in part from the front panel and in part from the second side panel, and wherein a reinforcing strip couples the central portion to each of the first end portion and the second end portion. The reinforcing strip may be secured between the central portion and a handle strap reinforcing panel struck from the third reinforcing panel. Optionally, the reinforcing strip is secured between the first reinforcing panel and the first side panel at one end thereof and between the second reinforcing panel and the second side panel at the other end thereof. Optionally, the carton comprises a first corner panel disposed between the first side panel and the front panel and a second corner panel disposed between the front panel and the second side panel. In some embodiments the first corner panel is severably connected to the first side panel by a first weakened line of severance and a second corner panel is severably connected to the front panel by a second weakened line of severance. The carton may comprise a first corner reinforcing panel disposed between the first reinforcing panel and the third reinforcing panel and a second corner reinforcing panel disposed between the third reinforcing panel and the second reinforcing panel.

WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 -9 Optionally, the first corner reinforcing panel is severably connected to the third reinforcing panel by a third weakened line of severance and a second corner reinforcing panel is severably connected to the third reinforcing panel by a fourth weakened line of severance. Preferably, the first weakened line of severance is offset from the third weakened line of severance and the second weakened line of severance is offset from the fourth weakened line of severance. In some embodiments the corners of the carton are cut away. Optionally, the upper and lower edges of the carton are cut away at each of the corners. The handle strap may comprise a first recess for engaging with a wrapping material so as to maintain the handle in a deployed position, the first recess being disposed on a first edge of the handle strap. Optionally, the handle strap comprises a second recess for engaging with a wrapping material so as to maintain the handle strap in a deployed position, the second recess opposing the first recess and being disposed on a second opposing edge of the handle strap. Preferably, the corners of each panel disposed adjacent or proximate to the corners of the carton are rounded in shape. In some embodiments the handle strap comprises a central portion severably connected to a first end portion and a second end portion. Within the scope of this application it is envisaged that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings may be taken independently or in any combination thereof. For example, features described in connection with one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments unless there is incompatibility of features. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS Exemplary embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which: WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 - 10 FIGURE 1 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carton according to an embodiment of the invention; FIGURE 2 is a plan view from above of the blank of Figure 1 in a stage of construction; FIGURE 3 is a plan view from above of the blank of Figure 4 in another stage of construction; FIGURE 4 is a perspective view from above showing a stage in the construction of a package, employing the blank of Figure 1 about a group of articles; FIGURE 5 is a perspective view from above showing a further stage of construction of a package, employing the blank of Figure 1 about a group of articles of Figure 1; FIGURE 6 is an enlarged perspective view from above of a stage of construction of a package employing the blank of Figure 1; FIGURE 7 is an enlarged perspective view from above of a further a stage of construction of a package employing the blank of Figure 1; FIGURE 8 is an enlarged perspective view from above of yet another stage of construction of a package employing the blank of Figure 1; FIGURE 9 is an enlarged perspective view from above of still a further stage of construction of a package employing the blank of Figure 1; FIGURE 10 is a perspective rear view from above of a carton formed from the blank of Figure 1, the carton being disposed about a group of articles; FIGURE 11 is a perspective front view from above of a carton formed from the blank of Figure 1, the carton being disposed about a group of articles; FIGURE 12 is a plan view from above showing the blank of Figure 1 assembled about a group of articles; FIGURE 13 is a perspective view from above of a package including a carton formed from the blank of Figure 1, a group of articles, and a film of wrapping material; FIGURE 14 is a plan view from above of a blank according to another embodiment of the invention; FIGURE 15 is a plan view from above of the blank of Figure 14 in a stage of construction; FIGURE 16 is a plan view from above of the blank of Figure 14 in another stage of construction; FIGURE 17 is a plan view from above of the blank of Figure 14 in a further stage of construction; FIGURE 18 is a perspective view from above showing a stage in construction of a package from the group of articles of Figure 23 and the blank of Figure 14; WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 - 11 FIGURE 19 is a perspective view from above showing another stage in construction of a package from the group of articles of Figure 23 and the blank of Figure 14; FIGURE 20 is a perspective view from above showing a further stage in construction of a package from the group of articles of Figure 23 and the blank of Figure 14; FIGURE 21 is an alternative perspective view from above of the stage of construction of the package of Figure 20; FIGURE 22 is a perspective view from above of a package formed from the group of articles of Figure 23 and the blank of Figure 14; FIGURE 23 is a perspective view from above of a group of articles in an alternative arrangement; and FIGURE 24 is a plan view from above of the group of articles of Figure 23 in the alternative arrangement. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of the package, blanks and cartons are disclosed herein. It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the way in which certain aspects of the invention can be implemented, and do not represent an exhaustive list of all of the ways the invention may be embodied. As used herein, the word "exemplary" is used expansively to refer to embodiments that serve as illustrations, specimens, models, or patterns. Indeed, it will be understood that the packages, blanks and cartons described herein may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The Figures are not necessarily to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minimised to show details of particular components. Well-known components, materials or methods are not necessarily described in great detail in order to avoid obscuring the present disclosure. Any specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the invention. In the embodiments detailed herein, the terms "carton" and "carrier "refer, for the non-limiting purpose of illustrating the various features of the invention, to a container for engaging, carrying, and/or dispensing articles, such as bottles. However, it is contemplated that the teachings of the invention can be applied to various containers, which may or may not be tapered and/or cylindrical. Other exemplary articles include bottles (for example metallic, glass or plastics bottles), cans (for example aluminium WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 - 12 cans), tins, pouches, packets and the like. The blank is formed from a sheet of suitable substrate. It is to be understood that, as used herein, the term "suitable substrate" includes all manner of foldable sheet material such as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, and the like. It should be recognized that one or other numbers of blanks may be employed, for example, to provide the carrier structure described in more detail below. In the exemplary embodiment, the blank is configured to form a carton or carrier for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles. For example, the arrangement is an array or matrix including rows and columns. The blank can be alternatively configured to form a carrier for packaging other articles and/or different arrangements of articles. Referring to Figure 1, there is shown a blank 10 for forming a carton in the form of a belt-like structure. The carton 91 (shown in Figure 10) provides a handle structure H for carrying the package 90 shown in Figure 13. The blank 10 comprises a first linear series of panels S1 and a second linear series of panels S2. The first linear series of panels S1 is disposed in parallel alongside the second linear series of panels S2. The first linear series of panels S1 comprises a handle panel 12 having a pair of cushion panels 14a, 14b hinged to upper and lower side edges thereof by fold lines 11, 13 respectively. The handle panel 12 forms a grip portion of the handle structure. The handle panel 12 is hinged at a first end to a first corner panel 20 by a hinge line 7. First corner panel 20 is part of a first pair of corner panels 20, 22. The first corner panel 20 is hingedly connected to a second corner panel 22 by a fold line 19. Second corner panel 22 is part of the first pair of corner panels 20, 22. Second corner panel 22 is hinged to a first side panel 24 by a fold line 21. First side panel 24 is hinged to a third corner panel 26 by a fold line 23. Third corner panel 26 forms part of a second pair of corner panels 26, 28. Third corner panel 26 is hinged to a fourth corner panel 28, by a fold line 25. Fourth corner panel 28 is part of the second pair of corner panels 26, 28. Fourth corner panel 28 is hinged to a second side panel 30, 32 by a fold line 27. Second side panel 30, 32 comprises a fold line 29 which divides the second side panel 30, 32 into a first portion 30 and a second portion 32. Second side panel 30, 32 is hinged to a fifth corner panel 34, by a fold line 31. Fifth corner panel 34 forms part of a third pair of corner panels 34, 36. Fifth corner panel 34 is hinged to a sixth corner panel 36 by a fold line WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 - 13 33. Sixth corner panel 36 is part of the third pair of corner panels 34, 36. Sixth corner panel 36 is hinged to a first securing panel 38 by a fold line 35. The handle panel 12 is hinged at a second end to a seventh corner panel 16 by a hinge line 9. Seventh corner panel 16 forms part of a fourth pair of corner panels 16, 18. Seventh corner panel 16 is hinged to an eighth corner panel 18 by a fold line 15. Eighth corner panel 18 is part of the fourth pair of corner panels 16, 18. Eighth corner panel 18 is hinged to a third side panel 42 by a fold line 17. Third side panel 42 is hinged to a ninth corner panel 44 by a fold line 41. Ninth corner panel 44 forms part of a fifth pair of corner panels 44, 46. Ninth corner panel 44 is hinged to a tenth corner panel 46 by a fold line 43. Tenth corner panel 46 is part of the fifth pair of corner panels 44, 46. Tenth corner panel 46 is hinged to a fourth side panel 48, 50 by a fold line 45. Fourth side panel 48, 50 comprises a fold line 47 which divides the fourth side panel 48, 50 into a first portion 48 and a second portion 50. Fourth side panel 48, 50 is hinged to an eleventh corner panel 52 by a fold line 49. Eleventh corner panel 52 forms part of a sixth pair of corner panels 52, 54. Eleventh corner panel 52 is hinged to a twelfth corner panel 54 by a fold line 51. Twelfth corner panel 54 is part of the sixth pair of corner panels 52, 54. Twelfth corner panel 54 is hinged to a second securing panel 56 by a fold line 53. The second linear series of panels S2 comprises a fifth side panel 72. Fifth side panel 72 is hinged at a first end to a thirteenth corner panel 74 by a fold line 71. Thirteenth corner panel 74 forms part of a seventh pair of corner panels 74, 76. Thirteenth corner panel 74 is hinged to a fourteenth corner panel 76 by a fold line 73. Fourteenth corner panel 76 is part of the seventh pair of corner panels 74, 76. Fourteenth corner panel 76 is hinged to a sixth side panel 78 by a fold line 75. Sixth side panel 78 is hinged to a fifteenth corner panel 80 by a fold line 77. Fifteenth corner panel 80 forms part of an eighth pair of corner panels 80, 82. Fifteenth corner panel 80 is hinged to a sixteenth corner panel 82 by a fold line 79. Sixteenth corner panel 82 is part of the eighth pair of corner panels 80, 82. Sixteenth corner panel 82 is hinged to an inner second side panel 84, 86 by a fold line 81. Inner second side panel 84, 86 comprises a fold line 83 which divides the inner second side panel 84, 86 into two portions, a first portion 84 and a second portion 86. Fifth side panel 72 is hinged at a second end to a seventeenth corner panel 70 by a fold line 69. Seventeenth corner panel 70 forms part of a ninth pair of corner panels 70, 68. Seventeenth corner panel 70 is hinged to an eighteenth corner panel 68 by a fold line 67. Eighteenth corner panel 68 is part WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 - 14 of the ninth pair of corner panels 70, 68. Eighteenth corner panel 68 is hinged to a seventh side panel 66 by a fold line 65. Seventh side panel 66 is hinged to a nineteenth corner panel 64 by a fold line 63. Nineteenth corner panel 64 forms part of a tenth pair of corner panels 64, 62. Nineteenth corner panel 64 is hinged to a twentieth corner panel 62 by a fold line 61. Twentieth corner panel 62 is part of the tenth pair of corner panels 64, 62. Twentieth corner panel 62 is hinged to an inner fourth side panel 60, 58 by a fold line 59. Inner fourth side panel 60, 58 comprises a fold line 57 which divides the inner fourth side panel 60, 58 into two portions, a first portion 60 and a second portion 58. The second linear series of panels S2 is hingedly connected at each end to the first linear series of panels S1. The second portion 86 of inner second side panel 84, 86 is hingedly connected along a side edge thereof by a first fold line 3a to a side edge of the second portion 32 of second side panel 30, 32. The second portion 58 of inner fourth side panel 60, 58 is hingedly connected along a side edge thereof by a second fold line 3b to a side edge of the second portion 50 of second side panel 48, 50. A cut line or weakened line of severance 5, disposed between the first fold line 3a and the second fold line 3b, separates or allows separation of a portion of the second linear series of panels S2 from a portion of the first linear series of panels S1 disposed adjacent thereto. The cut line or weakened line of severance 5 extends between fold line 29 in the second side panel 30, 32 and the fold line 47 defined in the fourth side panel 48, 50. The blank 10 can be assembled to form the carton 91 as illustrated in Figures 2, 3 and 4. It is envisaged that the carton 91 can be formed by a series of sequential folding operations in a straight line machine so that the carton 91 is not required to be rotated or inverted to complete its construction. The folding process is not limited to that described below and may be altered according to particular manufacturing requirements. Referring to Figure 2, a reinforcing strap R is secured with adhesive G to the first linear series of panels S1. Preferably the reinforcing strap R is secured in the centre to the handle panel 12. A first end of the reinforcing strap R is secured, at least in part, to the first side panel 24, to the third and fourth corner panels 26, 28 and to the first portion 30 of the of second side panel 30, 32. A second end of the reinforcing strap R is secured, at least in part, to the third side panel 42, to the ninth and tenth corner panels 44, 46 and to the first portion 48 of the fourth side panel 48, 50.

WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 - 15 Glue G is applied to the second portion 86 of inner second side panel 84, 86 and to second portion 58 of inner fourth side panel 60, 58. In alternative embodiments, other securing means may be employed. For example, the blank 10 may comprise a coating which can be activated to be adhesive e.g., by application of heat or other treatment, or by removal of a barrier film. In some embodiments, the adhesive or adhesive preparation is provided upon the second portion 32 of second side panel 30, 32 and to the second portion 50 of the fourth side panel 48, 50. Figure 3 illustrates the second linear series of panels S2 being folded about fold lines 3a, 3b, as indicated by direction arrow D1, such that the second linear series of panels S2 overlies the first linear series of panels S1. The second portion 86 of inner second side panel 84, 86 is secured to second portion 32 of second side panel 30, 32 and the second portion 58 of inner fourth side panel 60, 58 is secured to second portion 50 of the fourth side panel 48, 50. The blank 10 can be formed into a loop or belt-like structure by separating the part of the second linear series S2 disposed between the second portion 58 of inner fourth side panel 60, 58, and the second portion 86 of inner second side panel 84, 86, from the adjacent portion of the first linear series S1 which it overlies, as shown in Figure 4. This is achieved by folding the second side panel 30, 32 about fold line 29 and the fourth side panel 48, 50 about fold line 47. This opens up the blank 10 such that it may be placed about a group X of articles B, or a group X of articles B may be inserted into the loop formed by separating second linear series S2 from the first linear series S1, as shown in Figure 5. In order to tighten the blank 10 about the group X of articles B, the blank 10 is folded about fold lines 57 and 83. Figures 6, 7 and 8 illustrate folding the second securing panel 56 and the fourth side panel 48, 50 and the inner fourth side panel 58, 60. The fourth side panel 48, 50 is unfolded, as indicated by direction arrow D2 in Figure 6 and direction arrow D3 in Figure 7, about fold line 47 such that the first portion 48 and the second portion 50 are substantially coplanar. The inner fourth panel 58, 60 is folded about fold line 57, as indicated by direction arrow D4, such that the first portion 58 is substantially brought into contact with the second portion 50, as shown in Figure 9. The fold line 47 in the fourth side panel 48, 50 is offset with respect to the fold line 57 in the inner fourth side panel 58, 60, and fold line 29 in the second side panel 30, 32 is offset with respect to the fold line 83 in the inner second side panel 84, 86; this provides the carton 91 with two configurations: a first WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 - 16 configuration, when the carton 91 is folded about the fold line 47 and fold line 29; and a second configuration, when the carton 91 is folded about the fold line 57 and fold line 83. In the first configuration, the loop formed by the carton panels is larger in dimension than the loop formed by the carton panels when in the second configuration. In the first configuration, the first portion 48 of fourth side panel 48, 50 and the second portion 60 of the inner fourth side panel 58, 60, do not overlap. Also in the first configuration, the first portion 30 of second side panel 30, 32, and the second portion 86 of the second inner side panel 84, 86, do not overlap. In the second configuration first portion 48 of fourth side panel 48, 50 and the second portion 60 of the inner fourth side panel 58, 60 have been brought into a partially overlapping arrangement. Also in the second configuration, the first portion 30 of second side panel 30, 32 and the second portion 86 of the second inner side panel 84, 86 have been brought into a partially overlapping arrangement. The fold line 47 in the fourth side panel 48, 50 is offset in a direction along a longitudinal axis of the blank 10 with respect to the fold line 57 in the inner fourth side panel 58, 60. The fold line 29 in the second side panel 30, 32 is offset in a direction along a longitudinal axis of the blank 10 with respect to the fold line 83 in the inner second side panel 84, 86. This provides that when the blank 10 is formed into a loop, the fold line 47 is circumferentially spaced apart from the fold line 57, and the fold line 29 is circumferentially spaced apart from the fold line 83, in both the first and second configurations. It will be appreciated that the degree or magnitude of the offset, the longitudinal distance between fold line 29 and fold line 83 and/or the longitudinal distance between fold line 47 and fold line 57, determines the magnitude of the change in length of the loop between the first configuration and the second configuration. The carton 91 is secured in the second position about the group X of articles B; glue G or other adhesive treatment is applied to the seventh side panel 66, as shown in Figure 8, and to the sixth side panel 78; the first securing panel 38 is secured to the sixth side panel 78 and the second securing panel 56 is secured to the seventh side panel 66 as shown in Figure 9. In this way, the blank 10 is formed into the carton 91 (as illustrated in Figures 10, 11 and 12) about the group X of articles B. The group X of articles B and the carton 91 are then wrapped in a film F of a plastics material or similar material to form the package 90 shown in Figure 13. Preferably, the film F is shrinkable, for example by WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 - 17 exposure to heat. An aperture A is provided in the film F so as to expose the handle structure H, thereby allowing access by a user to the handle structure H. The film F is made from a plastic material such as, but not limited to, polyolefin, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or polyethylene, heat shrinkable material or other material having plastic properties. Referring now to Figures 14 to 24, there is shown an alternative embodiment of the present invention. In the second illustrated embodiment like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix "100" to indicate that these features belong to the second embodiment. The alternative embodiment shares many common features with the first embodiment and therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 13 will be described in any greater detail. Figure 14 illustrates a blank 110 for forming a package according to a second embodiment of the invention. Referring to Figure 23 there is shown a perspective view of a group G of primary products such as, but not limited to, bottles or cans, hereinafter referred to as articles A. Figure 24 shows a plan view of the article group G. Optionally, the article group G comprises five columns 1, 2, 3, 4, 5 arranged in a series one adjacent to the next. The first, third and fifth columns 1, 3, 5 each comprise six articles A, whereas the second and fourth columns 2, 4 each comprise seven articles A. The first, third and fifth columns 1, 3, have a first dimension (or length) X and the second and fourth columns 2, 4 have a second, greater, dimension (or length) Y. The articles A in the first and third columns 1, 3 are arranged to nest with the articles A in the second column 2. Similarly the articles A in the third and fifth columns 3, 5 are arranged to nest with the articles A in the fourth column 4. The articles A in the second and fourth columns 2, 4 are arranged to nest with the articles A in the third column 3. The centres, denoted by notional line C2, of the articles A in the second and fourth columns 2, 4 are offset with respect to the centres, denoted by notional line C1, of the articles A in the first, third and fifth columns 1, 3, 5. Preferably, the offset is equivalent to half the width or diameter of the articles A. The arrangement of the articles A provides that the article group has bevelled corners B, such that when a sheet of material is wrapped about the article group G the sheet material bends about an end-most article in the first or fifth column 1, 5 and also bends about an end-most article in the adjacent second or fourth column 2, 4.

WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 - 18 The arrangement of the article group G also provides a recess or void R between the endmost articles in the second column 2 and the fourth column 4. This void is useful since it allows a user to insert fingers through an aperture in the sheet material so as to grasp a portion thereof. Figure 14 illustrates a blank 110 for forming a carton for packaging one or more articles A, the blank 110 may, for example, be employed with the article group illustrated in Figures 23 and 24. The blank 110 comprises three series of panels: a first series of panels 138, 144B, 144A, 140, 146B, 146A, 142 and a second series of panels 132C, 132B, 132A, 134A, 134B, 134C, 136A, 136B, 136C are coupled on opposing sides thereof to a third series of panels 118A, 118B, 120A, 120B, 122A, 122B, 124, 126B, 126A, 128B, 28A, 130B, 130A. Preferably, the first series of panels 138, 144B, 144A, 140, 146B, 146A, 142 is coupled by fold lines 157, 159, 161 to the third series of panels 118A, 118B, 120A, 120B, 122A, 122B, 124, 126B, 126A, 128B, 128A, 130B, 130A. A first fold line 157 hinges the panel 138 to the panel 120B, a second fold line 159 hinges the panel 140 to the panel 124 and a third fold line 161 hinges the panel 142 to the panel 128B. The second series of panels 132C, 132B, 132A, 134A, 134B, 134C, 136A, 136B, 136C is hingedly attached to the third series of panels 118A, 118B, 120A, 120B, 122A, 122B, 124, 126B, 126A, 128B, 128A, 130B, 130A. The third series of panels 118A, 118B, 120A, 120B, 122A, 122B, 124, 126B, 126A, 128B, 128A, 130B, 130A forms a part of a strap for surrounding the article group G. The third series of panels 118A, 118B, 120A, 120B, 122A, 122B, 124, 126B, 126A, 128B, 128A, 130B, 130A comprises a first side panel 120A, 120B formed from panels 120A, 120B and second side panel 128A, 128B formed from panels 128A, 128B, a front panel 124, an optional first corner panel 122A, 122B formed from panels 122A, 122B and an optional second corner panel 126A, 126B formed from panels 126A, 126B. The third series of panels 118A, 118B, 120A, 120B, 122A, 122B, 124, 126B, 126A, 128B, 128A, 130B, 130A also comprises a first glue flap 118A, 118B formed from panels 118A, 118B and second glue flap 130A, 130B formed from panels 130A, 130B. The first side panel 120A, 120B is formed from a first panel 120A hinged to a second panel 120B along a fold line 115. The second side panel 128A, 128B is formed from a first panel 128A hinged to a second WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 - 19 panel 128B along a fold line 129. The first glue flap 118A, 118B is formed from a first panel 118A hinged along a fold line 111 to a second panel 118B and the second glue flap 130A, 130B is formed from a first panel 130A hinged along a fold line 133 to a second panel 130B. The optional first corner panel 122A, 122B is formed from a first panel 122A hinged by a fold line 121 to a second panel 122B and the optional second corner panel 126A, 126B is formed from a first panel 126A hinged by a fold line 123 to a second panel 126B. The first glue flap 118A, 118B is coupled to the first side panel 120A, 120B by a fold line 113; the first side panel 120A, 120B is coupled to the first corner panel 122A, 122B by a fold line 119. The first corner panel 122A, 122B is coupled to the front panel 124 by a fold line 173A. The front panel 124 is coupled to the second corner panel 126A, 126B by fold line 173B. The second corner panel 126A, 126B is coupled to the second side panel 128A, 128B by a fold line 125. The second side panel 128A, 128B is coupled to the second glue flap 130A, 130B by a fold line 131. The first series of panels 138, 144B, 144A, 140, 146B, 146A, 142 forms a reinforcing layer; a front reinforcing panel 140 is arranged and configured to reinforce the front panel 124. A first side reinforcing panel 138 reinforces a portion of the panel 120B which forms part of the first side panel 120A, 120B; a second side reinforcing panel 142 reinforces a portion of the panel 128B which forms part of the second side panel 128A, 128B. Optionally, the blank 110 comprises a first corner reinforcing panel 144A, 144B which reinforces the optional first corner panel 122A, 122B. Optionally, the blank 110 comprises a second corner reinforcing panel 146A, 146B which reinforces the optional second corner panel 126A, 126B. First corner reinforcing panel 144A, 144B comprises a first panel 144A hinged to a second panel 144B by a fold line 149. First corner reinforcing panel 146A, 146B comprises a first panel 146A hinged to a second panel 146B by a fold line 153. The first side reinforcing panel 138 is coupled to the first corner reinforcing panel 144A, 144B by a fold line 147. The first corner reinforcing panel 144A, 144B is coupled to the front reinforcing panel 140 by a fold line 175A. The front reinforcing panel 140 is coupled to the second corner reinforcing panel 146A, 146B by a fold line 175B. The second corner reinforcing panel 146A, 146B is coupled to the second side reinforcing panel 142 by a fold line 155.

WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 - 20 The second series of panels 132C, 132B, 132A, 134A, 134B, 134C, 136A, 136B, 136C comprises a rear panel 134A, 134B, 134C formed from panels 134A, 134B, 134C. The rear panel 134A, 134B, 134C is hinged to a first securing panel 132A, 132B, 132C and to a second securing panel 136A, 136B, 136C. The first securing panel 132A, 132B, 132C comprises three panels; a first panel 132A hinged along a fold line 135 to a second panel 132B, and a third panel 132C hinged along a fold line 181 to the second panel 132B. The first securing panel 132A, 132B, 132C is hinged to the rear panel 134A, 134B, 134C by a fold line 137 between the first panel 132A forming part of the first securing panel 132A, 132B, 132C and a first panel 134A forming part of the rear panel 134A, 134B, 134C. The second securing panel 136A, 136B, 136C comprises three panels; a first panel 136A hinged along a fold line 145 to a second panel 136B, and a third panel 136C hinged along a fold line 183 to the second panel 136B. The second securing panel 136A, 136B, 136C is hinged to the rear panel 134A, 134B, 134C by a fold line 143 between the first panel 136A forming part of the second securing panel 136A, 136B, 136C and a third panel 134C forming part of the rear panel 134A, 134B, 134C. The first panel 134A of the rear panel 134A, 134B, 134C is hinged to a second panel 134B of the rear panel 134A, 134B, 134C by a fold line 139; the second panel 134B of the rear panel 134A, 134B, 134C is hinged to the third panel 134C of the rear panel 134A, 134B, 134C by a fold line 141. The third panel 132C of the first securing panel 132A, 132B, 132C is hingedly connected to the second panel 120B of the first side panel 120A, 120B by a fold line 187A; the second panel 132B of the first securing panel 132A, 132B, 132C is frangibly connected to the second panel 120B of the first side panel 120A, 120B by a weakened line of severance 163. The third panel 136C of the second securing panel 136A, 136B, 136C is hingedly connected to the second panel 128B of the second side panel 128A, 128B by a fold line 187B; the second panel 136B of the second securing panel 136A, 136B, 136C is frangibly connected to the second panel 128B of the second side panel 128A, 128B by a weakened line of severance 167.

WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 - 21 In this way the second series of panels 132C, 132B, 132A, 134A, 134B, 134C, 136A, 136B, 136C remains hingedly attached to the third series of panels 118A, 118B, 120A, 120B, 122A, 122B, 124, 126B, 126A, 128B,128A,130B,130A. The blank 110 comprises a handle structure H formed in part from the front reinforcing panel 140 and in part from the front panel 124. The handle structure H comprises a central portion 148 struck from the front panel 124. A pair of cushion panels 150 also struck from the front panel 124 are hinged on opposing sides of the central portion 148 by a respective fold line 151. An aperture 152 is struck from the front panel 124 on a side of each of the cushion panels 150 wherein the side opposes the hinged connection 151. The central portion 148 extends across the front panel 124 and is defined in part by weakened lines of severance 169A, 169B, 171A, 171B. Central portion 148 is coupled at a first end to the first corner panel 122A, 122B and at a second end to the second corner panel 126A, 126B. The front reinforcing panel 140 comprises a handle reinforcing member 148R, having a central portion 148R struck from the front reinforcing panel 140. A pair of cushion panels 150R are also struck from the front reinforcing panel 140 and are hinged on opposing sides of the central portion 148R by a respective fold line 151R. An aperture 152R is struck from the front reinforcing panel 140 on a side of the each of the cushion panels 150R wherein the side opposes the hinged connection 151R. In the illustrated embodiment the handle reinforcing member 148R, reinforces a central portion of the handle strap; the handle reinforcing member 148R, is severably coupled to the front reinforcing panel 140 such that the handle reinforcing member 148R, may be detached from the front reinforcing panel 140. A reinforcing strap P, see Figure 15, is glued to the first side panel 120A, 120B and the first corner panel 122A, 122B at one end thereof, and to the second side panel 128A, 128B and to the second corner panel 126A, 126B at the opposing end. The reinforcing strap P is secured between the first side panel 120A, 120B and the first side reinforcing panel 138; between the first corner panel 122A, 122B and the first corner reinforcing panel 144A, 144B; between the second side panel 128A, 128B and the second side reinforcing panel 142; between the second corner panel 126A, 126B and the second corner reinforcing panel 146A, 146B; and between the front panel 124 and the front reinforcing panel 140. In this way the reinforcing strap P is sandwiched between the first series of panels 138, 144B, 144A, 140, 146B, 146A, 142 and the third series of panels 118A, 118B, 120A, 120B, 122A, 122B, 124, 126B, 126A, 128B, 128A, 130B, 130A.

WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 - 22 Turning to the construction of the carton as illustrated in Figures 15 to 22 it is envisaged that the carton can be formed by a series of sequential folding operations in a straight line machine so that the carton is not required to be rotated or inverted to complete its construction. The folding process is not limited to that described below and may be altered according to particular manufacturing requirements. The blank 110 is constructed into a carton by applying adhesive or glue B to the first series of panels 138, 144B, 144A, 140, 146B, 146A, 142 as shown in Figure 15. Preferably, glue is applied to the first reinforcing panel 138, the first corner panel 144B, 144A and to the second reinforcing panel 142 and the second corner panel 146B, 146A. Glue is also applied to the front reinforcing panel 140 and to the central portion 148R of the handle structure H. A reinforcing strap P is secured to the third series of panels 118A, 118B, 120A, 120B, 122A, 122B, 124, 126B, 126A, 128B, 128A, 130B, 130A. The reinforcing strap P is secured to the first side panel 120A, 120B and to the first corner panel 122A, 122B at one end thereof and to the second side panel 128B, 128A and to the second corner panel 126B, 126A at the opposing end. The reinforcing strap P is secured between the first side panel 120A, 120B and the first side reinforcing panel 138; between the first corner panel 122A, 122B and the first corner reinforcing panel 144A, 144B; between the second side panel 128A, 128B and the second side reinforcing panel 142; between the second corner panel 126B, 126A and the second corner reinforcing panel 146A, 146B; and between the front panel 124 and the front reinforcing panel 140. In this way the reinforcing strap P is sandwiched between the first series of panels 138, 144B, 144A, 140, 146B, 146A, 142 and the third series of panels 118A, 118B, 120A, 120B, 122A, 122B, 124, 126B, 126A, 128B, 128A, 130B, 130A when the first series of panels 138, 144B, 144A, 140, 146B, 146A, 142 is folded about the fold lines 157, 159, 161 and secured to the third series of panels 118A, 118B, 120A, 120B, 122A, 122B, 124, 126B, 126A, 128B, 128A, 130B, 130A, as indicated by direction arrow D1 in Figure 16. Adhesive or glue B is applied (in other embodiments the blank 110 may be conditioned so as to become adhesive, for example by heating) to the third panel 132C of the first securing panel 132A, 132B, 132C and to the third panel 136C of the first securing panel 136A, 136B, 136C. The second series of panels 132C, 132B, 132A, 134A, 134B, 134C, 136A, 136B, 136C is then folded (as indicated by direction arrow D2 in Figure 17) about the fold lines 187A, 187B so as to overlay the third series of panels 118A, 118B, WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 - 23 120A, 120B, 122A, 122B, 124, 126B, 126A, 128B, 128A, 130B, 130A and the first series of panels 138, 144B, 144A, 140, 146B, 146A, 142. In order to construct a package the blank 110 is erected into a tubular form as shown in Figure 18. This is achieved by severing the frangible connection 163 between panels 132B and 120B and the frangible connection 167 between 136B and 128B. The panel 132B is folded about fold line 181 and the panel 136B is folded about fold line 183. The tubular structure receives a group of articles A as shown in Figure 18. The articles may be lowered (or raised up) into the tubular structure; alternatively, the tubular structure may be lowered (or raised up) over the article group G. Glue B is applied to the rear panel 134A, 134B, 134C, as shown in Figure 19; the panel 132B is folded about fold line 181 so as to be brought into contact with panel 132C and the panel 136B is folded about fold line 183 so as to be brought into contact with panel 136C, best seen in Figure 21. The first glue flap 118A, 118B and the second glue flap 130A, 130B are secured to the rear panel 134A, 134B, 134C as shown in Figure 20. The article group G and the carton 190 are then wrapped in a film F of a plastics material or similar material. Preferably the film is shrinkable, for example by exposure to heat. An aperture A is provided in at least one end on the package so as to expose the handle structure H, thereby allowing access by a user to the handle structure H. In the embodiments shown in Figures 14 to 22 the first series of panels 138, 144B, 144A, 140, 146B, 146A, 142, the second series of panels 132C, 132B, 132A, 134A, 134B, 134C, 136A, 136B, 136C and the third series of panels 118A, 118B, 120A, 120B, 122A, 122B, 124, 126B, 126A, 128B, 128A, 130B, 130A are arranged such that the corners of the panels at each of the corners of the carton are rounded. This provides that the upper edge and lower edge of the corners of the carton are cut away. This allows the wrapping material W to be disposed in closer proximity to the respective articles A disposed in the corners of the package. This provides better retention and also reduces the risk of the corners of the carton perforating the wrapping material W during application or use of the package 190. In alternative embodiments it is envisaged that the corners of the panels at each of the corners of the carton may have a different shape which provides a cut away.

WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 - 24 It can be appreciated that various changes may be made within the scope of the present invention; for example, the size and shape of the panels and apertures may be adjusted to accommodate articles of differing size or shape. It will be appreciated that the number of panels of the carton is dependent upon the shape of the array of articles; in other embodiments, other shapes are envisaged dependent upon the shape of the article or group of articles to be packaged. The corner panels may be omitted, such that the side panels are connected directly to the adjacent side panel or panels. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle panel forms one of the side panels, in other embodiments the handle panel may be omitted or may be struck from within a side panel. It will be appreciated that the carton 91 of the illustrated embodiment comprises a pair of tightening or length adjusting features; a first formed from the second panel and the inner second side panel, a second formed from the fourth side panel and the inner fourth side panel. In alternative embodiments, only one tightening or length adjusting feature may be provided or more than two tightening or length adjusting features may be provided. It will be recognised that as used herein, directional references such as "top", "bottom", "front", "back", end", "side", "inner", "outer", "upper" and "lower" do not limit the respective panels to such orientation, but merely serve to distinguish these panels from one another. As used herein, the terms "hinged connection" and "fold line" refer to all manner of lines that define hinge features of the blank, facilitate folding portions of the blank with respect to one another, or otherwise indicate optimal panel folding locations for the blank. A fold line is typically a scored line, an embossed line, or a debossed line. Any reference to "hinged connection" or "fold line" should not be construed as necessarily referring to a single fold line only; indeed it is envisaged that hinged connection can be formed from any one or more of the following, a short slit, a frangible line or a fold line, without departing from the scope of the invention. As used herein, the term "severance line" refers to all manner of lines that facilitate separating portions of the substrate from one another or that indicate optimal separation locations. Severance lines may be frangible or otherwise weakened lines, tear lines, cut lines, or slits. It should be understood that hinged connection, severance lines and fold lines can each include elements that are formed in the substrate of the blank including perforations, a line of perforations, a line of short slits, a line of half-cuts, a single half-cut, a cut line, an interrupted cut line, slits, scores, any WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 - 25 combination thereof, and the like. The elements can be dimensioned and arranged to provide the desired functionality. For example, a line of perforations can be dimensioned or designed with degrees of weakness to define a fold line and/or a severance line. The line of perforations can be designed to facilitate folding and resist breaking, to facilitate folding and facilitate breaking with more effort, or to facilitate breaking with little effort.

Claims

1. A carton comprising a plurality of panels for forming a belt-like structure about one or more articles, the plurality of panels comprising a first linear series of panels including a first end panel, a first side panel, a second side panel, a first wing panel and a second wing panel, and a second linear series of panels including a second end panel, a third side panel, a fourth side panel, a first securing panel and a second securing panel, the second linear series of panels being secured at each end to the first linear series of panels to form a loop, the first securing panel being secured to the first wing panel, the second securing panel being secured to the second wing panel, wherein the first securing panel is hinged to the third side panel by a first hinged connection and the second securing panel is hinged to the fourth side panel by a second hinged connection, and the first wing panel is hinged to the first side panel by a third hinged connection and the second wing panel is hinged to the second side panel by a fourth hinged connection, and wherein the first securing panel and the first wing panel are folded about one of the first and third hinged connections to form a three ply structure, and the second securing panel and the second wing panel are folded about one of the second or fourth hinged connections to form a three ply structure.

2. A carton according to claim 1 wherein the first side panel and the third side panel form a first side wall of the carton.

3. A carton according to claim 1 wherein the second side panel and the fourth side panel form a second side wall of the carton.

4. A carton according to claim 2 wherein the first wing panel is secured to one of the first end panel, second end panel, first side panel or third side panel.

5. A carton according to claim 3 wherein the second wing panel is secured to one of the first end panel, second end panel, second side panel or fourth side panel.

6. A carton according to claim 1 wherein the hinged connection between the first securing panel and the third side panel is offset from the hinged connection between the first wing panel and the first side panel and wherein the hinged connection between the second securing panel and the fourth WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 - 27 side panel is offset from the hinged connection between the second wing panel and the second side panel, and wherein the length of the loop is dependent upon which of the first and third hinged connections the first wing panel and the first securing panel are folded about and upon which of the second and fourth hinged connections the second wing panel and second securing panel are folded about.

7. A carton comprising a plurality of panels for forming a belt-like structure about one or more articles, the plurality of panels comprising a first linear series of panels including a first end panel, a first side panel and at least one wing panel and a second linear series of panels including a second end panel, a second side panel and at least one securing panel, the second linear series of panels being secured at each end to the first linear series of panels to form a loop, the at least one securing panel being secured to the at least one wing panel, the at least one securing panel and the at least one wing panel being folded to form a three ply structure with the first side panel or second side panel, and wherein the at least one wing panel is secured to one of the first side panel, second side panel, first end panel or second end panel.

8. A blank comprising a plurality of panels for forming a belt, the blank comprising a first series of panels comprising a first side panel, a front panel and a second side panel, and a second series of panels comprising a rear panel, a hinge panel and an intermediate panel, the hinge panel being hinged along a first edge to the intermediate panel by a first fold line, the intermediate panel being hinged to the rear panel, the hinge panel being hinged to the first side panel along a second adjacent edge by a second fold line, wherein in a set-up condition the intermediate panel is folded about the first fold line so as to be in at least partial overlapping relationship with the hinge panel.

9. A blank according to claim 8 wherein the second series of panels comprises a second hinge panel and a second intermediate panel, the second hinge panel being hinged along a first edge to the second intermediate panel by a third fold line, the intermediate panel being hinged to the rear panel, the hinge panel being hinged to the second side panel along a second adjacent edge by a fourth fold line wherein in a set-up condition the second intermediate panel is folded about the third fold line so as to be in at least partial overlapping relationship with the second hinge panel.

10. A blank according to either of claims 8 or 9 comprising a third series of panels forming reinforcing panels for reinforcing at least the front panel, the third series of panels being hinged to the first WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 - 28 series of panels along an edge thereof, the edge opposing the second adjacent edge to which the hinge panel is foldably attached.

11. A carton for packaging one or more articles comprising a first series of panels comprising a first side panel, a front panel and a second side panel, and a second series of panels comprising a rear panel, a hinge panel and an intermediate panel, the hinge panel being hinged along a first edge to the intermediate panel by a first fold line, the intermediate panel being hinged to the rear panel, the hinge panel being hinged to the first side panel along a second adjacent edge by a second fold line, wherein in a set-up condition the intermediate panel is folded about the first fold line so as to be in at least partial overlapping relationship with the hinge panel and one panel of the first series of panels thereby forming a three ply structure.

12. A carton comprising a plurality of panels for surrounding one or more articles, the plurality of panels comprising a first linear series of panels and a second linear series of panels, the second linear series of panels being secured at each end to the first linear series of panels to form a loop, the first linear series of panels comprising at least one outer side panel and the second linear series of panels comprising at least one inner side panel, the at least one outer side panel comprising a first fold line to define a first portion and a second portion and the at least one inner side panel comprising a second fold line to define a first portion and a second portion, wherein the second portion of the at least one outer side panel is secured to the second portion of the at least one inner side panel such that the first fold line is offset longitudinally with respect to the second fold line and wherein the length of the loop is dependent upon whether the carton is folded about the first or second fold line.

13. A carton according to claim 12 wherein the carton comprises a first arrangement in which the carton is folded about the first fold line and a second arrangement in which the carton is folded about the second fold line, wherein in the first arrangement the length of the loop formed by the carton is greater than the length of the loop formed by the carton when it is disposed in the second arrangement. WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 - 29

14. A carton according to claim 13 wherein the carton comprises at least one securing panel hingedly connected to the second portion of the at least one outer side panel for securing the carton in the second arrangement.

15. A carton according to claim 12 wherein the first fold line is circumferentially spaced apart from the second fold line.

16. A carton according to claim 12 wherein one of the plurality of panels comprises a handle panel.

17. A carton according to claims 12 or 13 wherein the carton comprises a reinforcing strip secured to the handle panel.

18. A carton according to claim 12 wherein the plurality of panels comprises a plurality of side panels.

19. A carton according to claim 18 wherein the carton comprises at least one corner panel disposed between each pair of adjacent side panels.

20. A carton according to claim 18 wherein the carton comprises two corner panels disposed between each pair of adjacent side panels.

21. A carton according to claim 13 wherein in the second arrangement the at least one inner side panel is folded about the second fold line such that the first portion is disposed in overlapping relationship with the second portion, and wherein the first and second portions of the at least one inner side panel and the second portion of the at least one outer side panel form a three ply structure.

22. A package comprising one or more articles, a carton surrounding the one or more articles and a film of material disposed about the one or more articles and the carton, the carton comprising a plurality of panels, the plurality of panels comprising a first linear series of panels and a second linear series of panels, the second linear series of panels being secured at each end to the first linear series of panels to form a loop, the first linear series of panels comprising at least one outer side panel and the second linear series of panels comprising at least one inner side panel, the at least one outer side panel comprising a first fold line to define a first portion and a second portion and the at least one inner side panel comprising a second fold line to define a first portion and a second portion, wherein the second portion of the at least one outer side panel is secured to the second portion of WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 - 30 the at least one inner side panel such that the first fold line is offset longitudinally with respect to the second fold line and wherein the length of the loop is dependent upon whether the carton is folded about the first or second fold line.

23. A package according to claim 22 wherein the carton is a belt forming a tubular structure about the one or more articles, the belt having a tubular axis which is substantially perpendicular to a base of the articles.

24. A package according to either of claims 22 or 23 wherein the carton is an open-ended tubular structure disposed about the article group, the carton having a tubular axis which is substantially parallel to a tubular axis of the articles.

25. A package according to any of claims 22 to 24 wherein the package comprises a plurality of articles which are held together within the carton by the film of plastic material.

26. A package according to any of claims 22 to 25 wherein the film of material is made from a plastic material such as, but not limited to, polyolefin, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or polyethylene , heat shrinkable material or other material having plastic properties.

27. A package according to any of claims 22 to 26 wherein the film of material comprises an aperture and the carton comprises a handle structure accessible through the aperture.

28. A blank comprising a plurality of panels for forming a carton for surrounding one or more articles, the blank comprising a first linear series of panels and a second linear series of panels, the first linear series of panels comprising at least one outer side panel and the second linear series of panels comprising at least one inner side panel, the at least one outer side panel comprising a first fold line to define a first portion and a second portion and the at least one inner side panel comprising a second fold line to define a first portion and a second portion, wherein in a set-up carton the second linear series of panels is secured at each end to the first linear series of panels to form a loop and the second portion of the at least one outer side panel is secured to the second portion of the at least one inner side panel such that the first fold line is offset longitudinally with respect to the second fold line and wherein the length of the loop is dependent upon whether the blank is folded about the first or second fold line. WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 - 31

29. A blank according to claim 28 wherein the second linear series of panels is hingedly connected at each end thereof by a pair of hinge lines, along a side edge of the second linear series of panels to portions of a side edge of the first linear series of panels.

30. A blank according to claim 29 wherein a cutline or weakened line of severance is disposed between the pair of hinge lines.

31. A package comprising a plurality of articles arranged in a group, the group comprising columns of articles including a first column, a second column and a third column, the first column being disposed between the second and third columns, the first column having a first dimension, the second and third columns each having a second dimension wherein the first dimension is less than the second dimension so as to define a recess at least at one end of the first column, the package further comprising a carton surrounding the group, the carton having a handle structure, the handle structure having a central grip portion for being grasped by a user, wherein the central grip portion is disposed adjacent to the recess such that a void is defined between the central grip portion and the at least one end of the first column for receiving at least a portion of a user's hand.

32. A package comprising a plurality of articles arranged in a group, the group comprising columns of articles including first and second columns disposed adjacent to one another, the first column being disposed at an end of the group to form an end column, the first column having a first dimension, the second column having a second dimension, wherein the first dimension is less than the second dimension such that the group is defined to have at least one bevelled corner defined by respective endmost articles of the first and second columns, the package further comprising a carton surrounding the group, the carton having a handle structure, the handle structure having a central grip portion for being grasped by a user, the carton comprising a first panel and a second panel adjacent and coupled to the first panel, wherein the first and second panels are tightened about the respective endmost articles of the first and second columns such that the carton comprises a bevelled corner. WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 - 32

33. A package according to either of claims 31 or 32 wherein the carton is a belt forming a tubular structure about the article group, the belt having a tubular axis which is substantially perpendicular to a base of the articles.

34. A package according to either of claims 31 or 32 wherein the carton is an open-ended tubular structure disposed about the article group, the carton having a tubular axis which is substantially parallel to a tubular axis of the articles.

35. A package according to either of claims 33 or 34 wherein the articles are held together within the carton by the film of plastic material.

36. A package according to any of claims 31 to 35 wherein the film of material is made from a plastic material such as, but not limited to, polyolefin, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) or polyethylene, heat shrinkable material or other material having plastic properties.

37. A carton comprising a series of panels for surrounding a group of articles, the carton comprising a first side panel and a second side panel, a rear panel and a front panel, wherein the carton comprises a handle structure comprising a handle strap extending across the front panel and into the first and second side panels, the carton comprising a first and second reinforcing panel disposed on opposing sides of a third reinforcing panel, wherein the first reinforcing panel overlies at least in part the first side panel, the second reinforcing panel overlies at least in part the second side panel and the third reinforcing panel overlies the front panel, the third reinforcing panel comprising at least one handle strap reinforcing panel struck therefrom and wherein the handle strap is severable from the front panel and the at least one handle strap reinforcing panel is severable from the third reinforcing panel.

38. A carton according to claim 37 wherein the handle strap comprises a central portion severably connected to first and second opposed end portions of the handle strap.

39. A carton according to claim 38 wherein the central portion is struck from the front panel and the first end portion is struck in part from the front panel and in part from the first side panel and a second end portion is struck in part from the front panel and in part from the second side panel, and WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 - 33 wherein a reinforcing strip couples the central portion to each of the first end portion and the second end portion.

40. A carton according to claim 39 wherein the reinforcing strip is secured between the central portion and a handle strap reinforcing panel struck from the third reinforcing panel.

41. A carton according to claim 39 or 40 wherein the reinforcing strip is secured between the first reinforcing panel and the first side panel at one end thereof and between the second reinforcing panel and the second side panel at the other end thereof.

42. A carton according to claim 37 wherein the carton comprises a first corner panel disposed between the first side panel and the front panel and a second corner panel disposed between the front panel and the second side panel.

43. A carton according to claim 42 wherein the first corner panel is severably connected to the first side panel by a first weakened line of severance and a second corner panel is severably connected to the front panel by a second weakened line of severance.

44. A carton according to claim 43 wherein the carton comprises a first corner reinforcing panel disposed between the first reinforcing panel and the third reinforcing panel and a second corner reinforcing panel disposed between the third reinforcing panel and the second reinforcing panel.

45. A carton according to claim 44 wherein the first corner reinforcing panel is severably connected to the third reinforcing panel by a third weakened line of severance and a second corner reinforcing panel is severably connected to the third reinforcing panel by a fourth weakened line of severance.

46. A carton according to claim 45 wherein the first weakened line of severance is offset from the third weakened line of severance and the second weakened line of severance is offset from the fourth weakened line of severance.

47. A carton according to any of claims 37 to 46 wherein the corners of the carton are cut away.

48. A carton according to claims 47 wherein the upper and lower edges of the carton are cut away at each of the corners. WO 2014/052514 PCT/US2013/061791 - 34

49. A carton according to any of claims 37 to 49 wherein the handle strap comprises a first recess for engaging with a wrapping material so as to maintain the handle in a deployed position, the first recess being disposed on a first edge of the handle strap.

50. A carton according to claim 49 wherein the handle strap comprises a second recess for engaging with a wrapping material so as to maintain the handle strap in a deployed position, the second recess opposing the first recess and being disposed on a second opposing edge of the handle strap.

51. A carton according to any of claims 47 to 50 wherein the corners of each panel disposed adjacent or proximate to the corners of the carton are rounded in shape.

52. A carton according to any of claims 37 to 51 wherein the handle strap comprises a central portion severably connected to a first end portion and a second end portion.

53. A blank comprising a plurality of panels for forming the carton of any of claims 1 to 7, 11 to 21 or 37 to 52.

54. A package substantially as described herein with reference to and/or as illustrated by the accompanying Figures.

55. A carton for packaging articles substantially as described herein with reference to and/or as illustrated by the accompanying Figures.

56. A blank for packaging articles substantially as described herein with reference to and/or as illustrated by the accompanying Figures.