AU2021350098A9 - Article carriers and blanks therefor - Google Patents

Abstract

A locking device, a package, an article carrier for packaging one or more articles and a blank for forming the carrier. The carrier (90; 290) comprises at least four panels (14, 16, 18, 20; 114, 116, 118, 120) hingedly connected together to form a tubular structure. The carrier (90; 290) comprises a locking device (L1/L2) for locking the tubular structure in a flat collapsed form. In the flat collapsed form, a first one of the at least four panels (14, 16, 18, 20; 114, 116, 118, 120) is in an overlapping arrangement with a second one of the at least four panels (14, 16, 18, 20; 114, 116, 118, 120). The locking device comprises at least one male locking tab (42; 150A, 150B) formed from the first one of the at least four panels (14, 16, 18, 20; 114, 116, 118, 120) and at least one female locking opening for engaging with the at least one male locking tab (42; 150A, 150B). The at least one female locking opening is defined in the second one of the at least four panels (14, 16, 18, 20; 114, 116, 118, 120) at such a position that the at least one female opening registers with the at least one male locking tab when the tubular structure is in the collapsed form (42; 150A, 150B).

Description

ARTICLE CARRIERS AND BLANKS THEREFOR

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to locking mechanisms, article carriers and to blanks for forming the same. More specifically, but not exclusively, the invention relates to a carrier of the crate style having a locking mechanism for securing two panels together.

BACKGROUND

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

An object of the present disclosure is to provide an improved locking mechanism for securing two panels together. It is desirable to provide a locking mechanism in article carriers such as those of an open-top or crate style, the locking mechanism may be employed to secure the article carrier in a flat collapsed form.

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

SUMMARY

A first aspect of the invention provides a carrier for packaging at least one article. The carrier comprises at least four panels hingedly connected together to form a tubular structure. The carrier comprises a locking device for locking the tubular structure in a flat collapsed form. In the flat collapsed form, a first one of the at least four panels is in an overlapping arrangement with a second one of the at least four panels. The locking device comprises at least one male locking tab formed from the first one of the at least four panels and at least one female locking opening for engaging with the at least one male locking tab. The at least one female locking opening is defined in the second one of the at least four panels so as to be in registry with the at least one male locking tab when the tubular structure is in the collapsed form.

Optionally, the second one of the at least four panels comprises at least one second male locking tab and the first one of the at least four panels comprises at least one second female locking opening for engaging with the at least one second male locking tab, the at least one second female locking opening being defined in so as to be in registry with the at least one second male locking tab when the tubular structure is in the collapsed form.

A second aspect of the invention provides a carrier for packaging at least one article. The carrier comprises at least a first panel, a second panel and a locking device for interconnecting the first and second panels in an overlapping arrangement. The locking device comprises at least one first tab struck from the first panel and foldably connected thereto about a first notional line. The locking device comprises at least one second tab struck from the second panel and foldably connected thereto about a second notional line. The first and second notional lines coextensively register with each other when the first and second panel are in the overlapping arrangement. The at least one first tab comprises a first engaging portion at a corner defined by a free end edge and a side edge. The at least one second tab comprises a second engaging portion defined by a non-linear side edge. The at least one first tab is configured and sized such that the first engaging portion is engageable with the perimeter of an opening defined in the second panel by the at least one second tab. The at least one second tab is configured and sized such that the second engaging portion is engageable with the perimeter of an opening defined in the first panel by the at least one first tab.

Optionally, the first panel comprises a first aperture contiguously arranged the at least one first tab to expand a dimension of the opening defined by the at least one first tab.

Optionally, the second panel comprises a second aperture contiguously arranged the at least one second tab to expand a dimension of the opening defined by the at least one second tab.

Optionally, the at least one first tab comprises at least one nonlinear side edge so as to define a waist.

Optionally, the at least one second tab comprises at least one nonlinear side edge so as to define a shoulder.

Optionally, the at least one first tab comprises a first trapezoidal portion and a second trapezoidal portion contiguous therewith, the second trapezoidal portion being inverted with respect to the first trapezoidal portion. Optionally, the at least one second tab comprises a first trapezoidal portion and a second trapezoidal portion contiguous therewith, the second trapezoidal portion being inverted with respect to the first trapezoidal portion.

Optionally, the first trapezoidal portion of the at least one second tab is inverted with respect to the first trapezoidal portion of the at least one first tab.

Optionally, the at least one first tab comprises a pair of opposed nonlinear side edges so as to define a waist.

Optionally, the at least one second tab comprises a pair of opposed nonlinear side edges so as to define a pair of shoulders.

Optionally, the first aperture is rectangular in shape.

Optionally, the second aperture is trapezoidal in shape.

Optionally, the locking device comprises at least one third tab struck from the first panel and foldably connected thereto about a third notional line. The locking device comprises at least one fourth tab struck from the second panel and foldably connected thereto about a fourth notional line. The third and fourth notional lines coextensively register with each other when the first and second panel are in the overlapping arrangement. The at least one third tab comprises a third engaging portion defined by a non-linear side edge. The at least one fourth tab comprises a fourth engaging portion at a corner defined by a free end edge and a side edge. The at least one third tab is configured and sized such that the third engaging portion is engageable with the perimeter of an opening defined in the second panel by the at least one fourth tab. The at least one fourth tab is configured and sized such that the fourth engaging portion is engageable with the perimeter of an opening defined in the first panel by the at least one third tab.

Optionally, a first aperture is provided in the first panel and spaces apart the first and third tabs.

Optionally, a second aperture is provided in the second panel and spaces apart the second and fourth tabs. Optionally, the locking device is lockable by pressing at least a portion of the at least one first tab through the opening in the second panel.

Optionally, the locking device is lockable by pressing at least a portion of the at least one second tab through the opening in the first panel.

A third aspect of the invention provides a locking device for interconnecting a first panel and a second panel in an overlapping arrangement. The locking device comprises at least one first tab struck from the first panel and foldably connected thereto about a first notional line. The locking device comprises at least one second tab struck from the second panel and foldably connected thereto about a second notional line. The first and second notional lines coextensively register with each other when the first and second panel are in the overlapping arrangement. The at least one first tab comprises a first engaging portion at a corner defined by a free end edge and a side edge. The at least one second tab comprises a second engaging portion defined by a non-linear side edge. The at least one first tab is configured and sized such that the first engaging portion is engageable with the perimeter of an opening defined in the second panel by the at least one second tab. The at least one second tab is configured and sized such that the second engaging portion is engageable with the perimeter of an opening defined in the first panel by the at least one first tab.

A fourth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming a carrier. The blank comprises a plurality of panels including at least four panels hingedly connected together to form a tubular structure. The blank comprises a locking device for locking the tubular structure in a flat collapsed form, in which a first one of the at least four panels is in an overlapping arrangement with a second one of the at least four panels. The locking device comprises at least one male locking tab formed from the first one of the at least four panels and at least one female locking opening for engaging with the at least one male locking tab. The at least one female locking opening is defined in the second one of the at least four panels so as to be in registry with the at least one male locking tab when the tubular structure is in the collapsed form.

A fifth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming a carrier. The blank comprises a plurality of panels including at least a first panel and a second panel. The blank further comprises a locking device for interconnecting the first and second panels in an overlapping arrangement. The locking device comprises at least one first tab struck from the first panel and foldably connected thereto about a first notional line. The locking device comprises at least one second tab struck from the second panel and foldably connected thereto about a second notional line. The first and second notional lines coextensively register with each other when the first and second panel are in the overlapping arrangement. The at least one first tab comprises a first engaging portion at a corner defined by a free end edge and a side edge. The at least one second tab comprises a second engaging portion defined by a non-linear side edge. The at least one first tab is configured and sized such that the first engaging portion is engageable with the perimeter of an opening defined in the second panel by the at least one second tab. The at least one second tab is configured and sized such that the second engaging portion is engageable with the perimeter of an opening defined in the first panel by the at least one first tab.

Within the scope of this application it is envisaged or intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings may be considered or taken independently or in any combination thereof.

Features or elements described in connection with, or relation to, one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments unless there is an incompatibility of features. One or more features or elements from one embodiment may be incorporated into, or combined with, any of the other embodiments disclosed herein, said features or elements extracted from said one embodiment may be included in addition to, or in replacement of one or more features or elements of said other embodiment.

A feature, or combination of features, of an embodiment disclosed herein may be extracted in isolation from other features of that embodiment. Alternatively, a feature, or combination of features, of an embodiment may be omitted from that embodiment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

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

Figure 1 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figures 2, 3A and 3B illustrates stages of construction of a carrier from the blank of Figure 1 ;

Figure 4 is a perspective view from above of a carrier formed from the blank of Figure 1 ;

Figure 5A is a plan view from a first side of a locking mechanism according embodiments of the present disclosure in an unlocked condition; Figure 5B is a plan view from a second or reverse side of the locking mechanism of Figure 5A;

Figure 6 is a perspective view of the second or reverse side of the locking mechanism of Figure 5B in a first locked condition;

Figure 7 is a perspective view of the first side of the locking mechanism of Figure 5A in the first locked condition;

Figure 8 is a perspective view of the first side of the locking mechanism of Figure 5A in the second locked condition;

Figure 9 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

Figure 10 is a perspective view from above of a carrier formed from the blank of Figure 9;

Figure 11 is a perspective view of the first side of a locking mechanism according further embodiments of the present disclosure in a locked condition; and

Figure 12 is a perspective view of the carrier of Figure 9 in a flat collapsed condition, in which a locking mechanism of Figure 11 secures the carrier in the flat collapsed condition.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of the package, blanks and carriers are disclosed herein. It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the way in which certain aspects of the invention can be implemented and do not represent an exhaustive list of all of the ways the invention may be embodied. As used herein, the word “exemplary” is used expansively to refer to embodiments that serve as illustrations, specimens, models, or patterns. Indeed, it will be understood that the packages, blanks and carriers described herein may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The Figures are not necessarily to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components. Well-known components, materials or methods are not necessarily described in great detail in order to avoid obscuring the present disclosure. Any specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the invention.

Referring to Figure 1 , there is shown a plan view of a blank 10 which is capable of forming a carrier 90, as shown in Figure 4, for containing and carrying a group of primary products such as, but not limited to, bottles or cans, or a group of secondary packages each containing one or more primary product containers. The blank 10 forms a secondary or tertiary package for packaging at least one primary product container or secondary package. An alternative blank 110 is shown in Figure 9 for forming a carrier 190, as shown in Figure 10, for containing and carrying a group of primary products such as, but not limited to, bottles or cans, or a group of secondary packages each containing one or more primary product containers.

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

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

The packaging structures or cartons 90; 190 described herein may be formed from a sheet material such as corrugated board or paperboard, which may be made of or coated with materials to increase its strength. It should be noted that the tear resistant materials may be provided by more than one layer, to help improve the tear-resistance of the package. One surface of the sheet material may have different characteristics to the other surface. For example, the surface of the sheet material that faces outwardly from a finished package may be particularly smooth and may have a coating such as a clay coating or other surface treatment to provide good printability. The surface of the sheet material that faces inwardly may, on the other hand, be provided with a coating, a layer, a treatment or be otherwise prepared to provide properties such as one or more of tear-resistance, good glue-ability, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties.

Referring to Figure 1 there is shown a blank 10 comprising a plurality of main panels 14, 16, 18, 20, for forming walls of a carrier 90 (see Figure 4) hinged one to the next in a linear series.

A first main panel 14 is hingedly connected, along a first side, to a securing flap 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 13. The first main panel 14 is hingedly connected, along a second side, to a second main panel 16 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 15.

The second side of the first main panel 14 opposes the first side of the first main panel 14.

A third main panel 18 is hingedly connected to the second main panel 16 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 17. A fourth main panel 20 is hingedly connected to the third main panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 19.

The plurality of main panels 14, 16, 18, 20 form a tubular structure. The blank 10 comprises at least one end closure structure for closing at least one end of the tubular structure. The illustrated embodiment comprises a plurality of end closure panels for closing a first or lower end of the tubular structure. In other embodiments, the blank 10 may comprise at least one panel (not shown) for closing a second or upper end of the tubular structure. The second end of the tubular structure opposes the first end.

A first end closure panel 22A is hingedly connected to a first end of the first main panel 14 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 23A. A second end closure panel 22B is hingedly connected to a first end of the second main panel 16 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 23B. A third end closure panel 22C is hingedly connected to a first end of the third main panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 23C. A fourth end closure panel 22D is hingedly connected to a first end of the fourth main panel 20 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 23D.

The first end closure panel 22A comprises a first tab T 1 extending from a first side edge thereof and a second tab T2 extending from a second side edge; the second side edge opposes the first side edge.

The third end closure panel 22C comprises a third tab T3 extending from a first side edge thereof and a fourth tab T4 extending from a second side edge; the second side edge opposes the first side edge.

The blank 10 comprises a first tab receiving aperture A5, the first tab receiving aperture A5 is struck in part from the second main panel 16 and in part from the second end closure panel 22B. The blank 10 comprises a second tab receiving aperture A6, the second tab receiving aperture A6 is struck in part from the second main panel 16 and in part from the second end closure panel 22B. The first and second tab receiving apertures A5, A6 interrupt the hinged connection, fold line 23B between the second main panel 16 and the second end closure panel 22B. The blank 10 comprises a third tab receiving aperture A7, the third tab receiving aperture A7 is struck in part from the fourth main panel 20 and in part from the fourth end closure panel 22D. The blank 10 comprises a fourth tab receiving aperture A8, the fourth tab receiving aperture A8 is struck in part from the fourth main panel 20 and in part from the fourth end closure panel 22D. The third and fourth tab receiving apertures A7, A8 interrupt the hinged connection, fold line 23D between the fourth main panel 20 and the fourth end closure panel 22D.

Optionally, each of the first, second, third and fourth end closure panels 22A, 22B, 22C, 22D comprises a ventilation aperture A1 , A2, A3, A4 respectively.

Optionally, the second and fourth main panels 16, 20 may comprises a handle aperture A9, A10 respectively. In other embodiments handle apertures may be provided in the first and third main panel 14, 18 in addition to, or alternatively to, the handle apertures A9, A10 in the second and fourth main panels 16, 20.

Optionally, the second and fourth main panels 16, 20 each comprises at least one cutaway or recess R1 , R2, R3, R4 in an upper end edge. In the illustrated embodiment the second main panel 16 comprises a pair of cutaways or recesses R1 , R2 in an upper edge, wherein the upper edge opposes a lower edge to which the second end closure panel 22B is hingedly connected. The fourth main panel 20 may comprise a pair of cutaways or recesses R3, R4 in an upper edge, wherein the upper edge opposes a lower edge to which the fourth end closure panel 22D is hingedly connected.

The blank 10 comprises a locking structure for locking a pair of panels together. The third main panel 18 comprises a first locking element L1 , best shown in Figure 5B. The fourth main panel 20 comprises a second locking element L2, best shown in Figure 5A.

The first locking element L1 comprises a first locking tab 40 struck from, or defined within, the third main panel 18 and hingedly connected thereto. The first locking tab 40 is defined at least in part by a first nonlinear cut line 41 and by a second nonlinear cut line 43. The first nonlinear cut line 41 and the second nonlinear cut line 43 define opposed side edges of the first locking tab 40. Optionally, the first locking element L1 comprises a first locking tab aperture LA1 . The first locking tab aperture LA1 defines a first free end edge of the first locking tab 40 and extends between first or distal ends of the first and second nonlinear cut lines 41 , 43. In alternative embodiments the first locking tab aperture LA1 is replaced by a cutaway which may take the form of a cut line, severable line, recess, slot or slit.

Second or proximal ends of the first and second nonlinear cut lines 41 , 43 define a hinged connection F1 between the first locking tab 40 and the third main panel 18.

Each of the first and second nonlinear cut lines 41 , 43 is defined by a first linear portion contiguously arranged with a second linear portion. The first and second linear portions are divergently arranged with respect to each other. The first and second nonlinear cut lines 41 , 43 define a pair of opposed shoulders or engaging portions E3, E4.

The first locking tab 40 may be substantially hexagonal in shape and comprise a first proximal trapezoidal portion proximate to the hinged connection F1 and a second distal trapezoidal portion distal from the hinged connection F1. The first proximal trapezoidal portion is tapered and tapers or narrows towards the hinged edge of the first locking tab 40. The second proximal trapezoidal portion is tapered and tapers or narrows towards the free end edge of the first locking tab 40.

The first locking tab aperture LA1 may be substantially trapezoidal in shape. The first locking tab aperture LA1 may be narrower in width proximate to the end edge of the first locking tab 40. That is to say the first locking tab aperture LA1 is tapered and tapers towards the end edge of the first locking tab 40.

The first and second nonlinear cut lines 41 , 43 together with the first locking tab aperture LA1 define an opening in the third main panel 18.

The first and second nonlinear cut lines 41 , 43 together with the first locking tab aperture LA1 define a pair of opposed catches or detents S1 , S2 on opposing side edges of the opening in the third main panel 18.

The second locking element L2 comprises a second locking tab 42 struck from, or defined within, the fourth main panel 20 and hingedly connected thereto. The second locking tab 42 is defined at least in part by a third nonlinear cut line 45 and by a fourth nonlinear cut line 47. The third nonlinear cut line 45 and the fourth nonlinear cut line 47 define opposed side edges of the second locking tab 42. Optionally, the second locking element L2 comprises a second locking tab aperture LA2. The second locking tab aperture LA2 defines a first free end edge of the second locking tab 42 and extends between first or distal ends of the third and fourth nonlinear cut lines 45, 47. In alternative embodiments the second locking tab aperture LA2 is replaced by a cutaway which may take the form of a cut line, severable line, recess, slot or slit.

Second or proximal ends of the third and fourth nonlinear cut lines 45, 47 define a second hinged connection F2 between the second locking tab 42 and the fourth main panel 20.

Each of the third and fourth nonlinear cut lines 45, 47 is defined by a first linear portion contiguously arranged with a second linear portion. The first and second linear portions being divergently arranged with respect to each other. The first and second nonlinear cut lines 41 , 43 define a waist.

The second locking tab 42 may be substantially hour glass shaped and comprise a first proximal trapezoidal portion proximate to the hinged connection F1 and a second distal trapezoidal portion distal from the hinged connection F1 . The first proximal trapezoidal portion is tapered and flares or widens towards the hinged edge of the second locking tab 42. The second proximal trapezoidal portion is tapered and flares or widens towards the free end edge of the second locking tab 42.

The first proximal trapezoidal portion of the second locking tab 42 is inverted with respect to the first proximal trapezoidal portion of the first locking tab 40. The second distal trapezoidal portion of the second locking tab 42 is inverted with respect to the second distal trapezoidal portion of the first locking tab 40.

The first proximal trapezoidal portion of the second locking tab 42 may be substantially similar in dimension to the first proximal trapezoidal portion of the first locking tab 40.

The second distal trapezoidal portion of the second locking tab 42 may be substantially similar in dimension to the second distal trapezoidal portion of the first locking tab 40.

The second locking tab aperture LA2 may be substantially rectangular in shape.

The third and fourth nonlinear cut lines 45, 47 together with the second locking tab aperture LA2 define an opening in the fourth main panel 20.

The third and fourth nonlinear cut lines 45, 47 define a pair of opposed catches or detents S3, S4 on opposing side edges of the opening in the fourth main panel 20. The third and fourth nonlinear cut lines 45, 47 define a pair of opposed shoulders or engaging portions E1 , E2 in a distal portion of the second locking tab 42. The shoulders or engaging portions E1 , E2 are disposed adjacent to a free end edge of the second locking tab 42.

The pair of opposed catches or detents S3, S4 on opposing side edges of the opening are disposed between the pair of opposed shoulders or engaging portions E1 , E2 and the hinged connection F2 between the second locking tab 42 and the fourth main panel 20.

When the third and fourth main panels 18, 20 are brought into face to face relationship with each other, each of the pair of opposed shoulders or engaging portions E1 , E2 provided by the second locking tab 42 is disposed in vertical alignment or registry with at least a portion of a respective one of the pair of opposed catches or detents S1 , S2 in the third main panel 18, best shown in Figure 5A.

When the third and fourth main panels 18, 20 are brought into face to face relationship with each other, each of a pair of opposed shoulders or engaging portions E3, E4 provided by the first locking tab 40 is disposed in vertical alignment or registry with at least a portion of a respective one of the pair of opposed catches or detents S3, S4 in the fourth main panel 20, best shown in Figure 3B in which the first locking element L1 is shown in phantom (dot-dash line) disposed below the second locking element L2.

When the third and fourth main panels 18, 20 are brought into face to face relationship with each other, the first hinged connection F1 and the second hinged connection F2 are substantially disposed in vertical registry with each other.

When the third and fourth main panels 18, 20 are brought into face to face relationship with each other, the first locking tab aperture LA1 is disposed in vertical registry with the second locking tab aperture LA2. A portion of each of the pair of opposed catches or detents S1 , S2 in the third main panel 18 partially closes or constricts the second locking aperture LA2.

Turning to the construction of the carrier 90 from the blank 10, the blank 10 may be formed into an assembled carrier 90, as shown in Figures 2 to 4.

The blank 10 is folded about fold line 15 to bring the first main panel 14 into substantially face contacting relationship with the second main panel 16. The securing flap 12 is brought substantially into face contacting relationship with the third main panel 18, as shown in Figure 3A.

Glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to the securing flap 12 or to a corresponding region of the fourth main panel 20.

The blank 10 is folded about fold line 19 to bring the fourth main panel 14 into overlapping relationship with the third main panel 18 and into face contacting relationship with the securing flap 12. The fourth main panel 14 is secured to the securing flap 12.

The blank 10 is thus formed into a flat collapsed tubular structure which can be readily shipped or distributed to a convertor plant, at which the flat collapsed tubular structure may be erected into an open ended tubular structure, closed at one end and loaded with articles (not shown).

The flat collapsed tubular structure may be erected to form an open ended tubular structure by unfolding the first main panel 14 with respect to the second main panel 16 such that the first main panel 14 is disposed substantially perpendicularly with respect to the second main panel 16.

The carrier 90, in its open ended tubular form, may be loaded with articles through one or both open ends thereof. It will be appreciated that in some embodiments one of the open ends of the carrier 90 may be closed before loading the interior with articles through the remaining open end.

A first end of the tubular structure is closed by folding the first end closure panel 22A about fold line 23A and by folding the third end closure panel 22C about fold line 23C.

The second end closure panel 22B is then folded about fold line 23B and the fourth end closure panel 22D is then folded about the fold line 23D. In doing so the first tab T 1 engages with the fourth tab receiving aperture A8 and the fourth tab T4 engages with the third tab receiving aperture A7. The second tab T2 engages with the first tab receiving aperture A5 and the third tab T3 engages with the second tab receiving aperture A6. In this way the end closure panels 22A, 22B, 22C, 22D are secured in position without any adhesive.

The assembled carrier 90 is shown in Figure 4. The carrier 90 can be employed to transport one or more articles (not shown). The carrier 90 may be unloaded, removing the articles, at a delivery destination, then the carrier 90 may be collapsed to a flat condition substantially as illustrated in Figure 3A.

In order retain or secure the carrier 90 in this flat collapsed state the locking structure may be employed. One of the first or second locking tabs 40, 42 may be displaced or folded out of the plane of the one of the third or fourth main panels 18, 20 to which it is hinged, said one of the first or second locking tabs 40, 42 is inserted into the locking aperture LA1 , LA2 of the other one of the third or fourth main panels 18, 20. The other one of first or second locking tabs 40, 42 is displaced or folded out of the plane of the third or fourth main panels 18, 20 to which it is hinged.

The locking structure is configured such that the third and fourth main panels 18, 20 can be secured to each other by engaging the flat collapsed carrier from either side thereof.

The locking structure can be engaged by pressing or punching the second locking tab 42 through the third main panel 18, as shown in Figures 6 and 7. In this configuration the engaging portions E1 , E2 of the second locking tab 42 engage with the detents S1 , S2 on opposing side edges of the opening in the third main panel 18 created by displacement of the first locking tab 40. The second locking tab 42 is sandwiched between the third main panel 18 and the first locking tab 40.

The natural or inherent resilience of the material from which the blank 10 is constructed may bias the second locking tab 42 to return to a coplanar relationship with the third main panel 18. The engaging portions E1 , E2 and the detents S1 , S2 prevent, or inhibit, this from happening. The first locking tab 40 may encourage the second locking tab 42 to return to a coplanar relationship with the third main panel 18, since it is inherently biased to return to a coplanar relationship with the fourth main panel 20.

The locking structure can be engaged by pressing or punching the first locking tab 40 through the fourth main panel 20, as shown in Figure 8. In this configuration the engaging portions E3, E4 of the first locking tab 40 engage with the detents S3, S4 on opposing side edges of the opening in the fourth main panel 20 created by displacement of the second locking tab 42. The first locking tab 40 is sandwiched between the fourth main panel 20 and the second locking tab 42.

The natural or inherent resilience of the material from which the blank 10 is constructed may bias the first locking tab 40 to return to a coplanar relationship with the fourth main panel 20. The engaging portions E3, E4 and the detents S3, S4 prevent or inhibit this from happening. The second locking tab 42 may encourage the first locking tab 40 to return to a coplanar relationship with the fourth main panel 20, since it is inherently biased to return to a coplanar relationship with the third main panel 18.

The used and collapsed carriers 90 when locked in the flat collapsed condition may be collected in a stack with other flat collapsed carriers 90. The collapsed carriers 90 may be placed into a bin or hopper in a stacked arrangement. The stack of carriers 90 may be stabilized by providing for interaction of the locking tabs 40, 42 of a first carrier 90 with an opening in a second carrier 90 disposed adjacent to the first carrier 90 in the stack; said opening may be provided by displacement of locking tabs 40, 42 provided in the second carrier 90 for securing the second carrier 90 in a flat collapsed condition.

Referring now to Figures 9 to 12 there is shown an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure. 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 embodiment of Figures 1 to 8, therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 8 will be described in any greater detail.

Figure 9 shows a blank 110 comprising a plurality of main panels 114, 116, 118, 120, for forming walls of a carrier 190 (see Figure 10) hinged one to the next in a linear series.

A first main panel 114 is hingedly connected, along a first side, to a securing flap 112 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 113. The first main panel 114 is hingedly connected, along a second side, to a second main panel 116 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 115. The second side of the first main panel 114 opposes the first side of the first main panel 114.

A third main panel 118 is hingedly connected to the second main panel 116 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 117. A fourth main panel 120 is hingedly connected to the third main panel 118 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 119.

The plurality of main panels 114, 116, 118, 120 form a tubular structure. The blank 110 comprises at least one end closure structure for closing at least one end of the tubular structure. The illustrated embodiment comprises a plurality of end closure panels for closing a first or lower end of the tubular structure. In other embodiments the blank 110 may comprise at least one panel (not shown) for closing a second or upper end of the tubular structure. The second end of the tubular structure opposes the first end.

The first main panel 114 comprises an optional handle aperture A11 . The third main panel 116 comprises an optional handle aperture A12.

The blank 110 may comprise a pair of apertures A13, A14 struck in part from the first main panel 114 and in part from a first end closure panel 122A. The blank 110 may comprise a pair of apertures A15, A16 struck in part from the third main panel 116 and in part from a third end closure panel 122C. The apertures A13, A16 may be employed to facilitate access to an inner surface of a fourth end closure panel 122D. The apertures A14, A15 may be employed to facilitate access to an inner surface of a second end closure panel 122B. This may be advantageous for disassembly of the carrier 90 into the flat collapsed form after use of the carrier 90. A finger or tool may be inserted into the apertures A13, A14, A15, A16 to engage an inner surface of second or fourth end closure panel 122B, 122D to unfold said panel 122B, 122D.

Optionally, the blank 110 comprises locking flap 170, defined, at least in part, by a pair of cut or severance lines 171 , 173. The cut lines are defined in the first main panel 114. The locking flap 17 is configured to be disposed in vertical registry with a first one R1 of the recesses R1 , R2 provided in the second main panel 116. Edges of the locking flap 170 are tapered or divergently arranged with respect to each other. One or both edges of the locking flap 170 may engage with a corresponding edge of the first recess R1.

The blank 110 comprises an alternative locking structure L1/L2 for locking a pair of panels together. The third main panel 118 comprises a first locking element L1 . The fourth main panel 120 comprises a second locking element L2. The first and second locking elements L1 , L2 are substantially similar in construction. In the blank form the first and second locking elements L1 , L2 are oriented in the same direction. When in the flat collapsed form, the second locking element L2 is inverted with respect to the first locking element L1 .

The first locking element L1 comprises a first locking tab 150A and a second locking tab 152A. The first locking tab 150A is separated from the second locking tab 152A by a cutaway in the form of an aperture LA1 .

The first locking tab 150A is defined in part by a first pair of non-linear cut lines 151 A, 153A. A first cut line 151 A opposes a second cut line 153A. The second locking tab 152A is defined in part by a second pair of non-linear cut lines 155A, 157A. A third cut line 155A opposes a fourth cut line 157A.

The first nonlinear cut line 151 A and the second nonlinear cut line 153A define opposed side edges of the first locking tab 150A.

The aperture LA1 defines a first free end edge of the first locking tab 150A and extends between first or distal ends ofthe first and second nonlinear cut lines 151 A, 153A. In alternative embodiments the aperture LA1 may be replaced by an alternative cutaway which may take the form of a cut line, severable line, recess, slot or slit.

Second or proximal ends ofthe first and second nonlinear cut lines 151 A, 153A define a hinged connection F 1 between the first locking tab 150A and the third main panel 118.

Each of the first and second nonlinear cut lines 151 A, 153A is defined by a first linear portion contiguously arranged with a second linear portion. The first and second linear portions are divergently arranged with respect to each other. The first and second nonlinear cut lines 151 A, 153A define a pair of opposed catches or detents S1 , S2 on opposing side edges of the opening in the third main panel 118.

The first and second nonlinear cut lines 151 A, 153A define a waist.

The first locking tab 150A may be substantially hour glass shaped and comprise a first proximal trapezoidal portion proximate to the hinged connection F1 and a second distal trapezoidal portion distal from the hinged connection F1.

The first and second nonlinear cut lines 151 A, 153A define a pair of opposed shoulders or engaging portions E1 , E2 in a distal portion of the first locking tab 150A. The shoulders or engaging portions E1 , E2 are disposed adjacent to a free end edge of the first locking tab 150A.

The aperture LA1 may be substantially rectangular in shape.

The third nonlinear cut line 155A and the fourth nonlinear cut line 157A define opposed side edges of the second locking tab 152A. Each of the third and fourth nonlinear cut lines 155A, 157A is defined by a first linear portion contiguously arranged with a second linear portion. The first and second linear portions being divergently arranged with respect to each other. The third and fourth nonlinear cut lines 155A, 157A define a pair of opposed shoulders or engaging portions E3, E4.

The aperture LA1 defines a first free end edge of the second locking tab 152A and extends between first or distal ends of the third and fourth nonlinear cut lines 155A, 157A.

Second or proximal ends of the third and fourth nonlinear cut lines 155A, 157A define a second hinged connection F2 between the second locking tab 152A and the third main panel 118.

The second locking tab 152A may be substantially hexagonal in shape and comprise a first proximal trapezoidal portion proximate to the second hinged connection F2 and a second distal trapezoidal portion distal from the second hinged connection F2.

The third and fourth nonlinear cut lines 155A, 157A together with the aperture LA1 define a pair of opposed catches or detents S3, S4 on opposing side edges of the opening in the third main panel 18.

The second locking element L2 comprises a third locking tab 150B and a fourth locking tab 152B struck from, or defined within, the fourth main panel 120 and each hingedly connected thereto.

The third locking tab 150B is separated from the fourth locking tab 152B by a cutaway in the form of a second aperture LA2.

The third locking tab 150B is defined in part by a third pair of non-linear cut lines 151 B, 153B. A fifth cut line 151 B opposes a sixth cut line 153B.

The fourth locking tab 152B is defined in part by a fourth pair of non-linear cut lines 155B, 157B. A seventh cut line 155B opposes an eighth cut line 157B.

The fifth nonlinear cut line 151 B and the sixth nonlinear cut line 153B define opposed side edges of the third locking tab 150B.

The second aperture LA2 defines a first free end edge of the third locking tab 150B and extends between first or distal ends of the fifth and sixth nonlinear cut lines 151 B, 153B. In alternative embodiments the second aperture LA1 may be replaced by an alternative cutaway which may take the form of a cut line, severable line, recess, slot or slit.

Second or proximal ends of the fifth and sixth nonlinear cut lines 151 B, 153B define a third hinged connection F3 between the third locking tab 150B and the fourth main panel 120.

Each of the fifth and sixth nonlinear cut lines 151 B, 153B is defined by a first linear portion contiguously arranged with a second linear portion. The first and second linear portions being divergently arranged with respect to each other. The fifth and sixth nonlinear cut lines 151 B, 153B define a pair of opposed catches or detents S5, S6 on opposing side edges of the opening in the fourth main panel 120.

The fifth and sixth nonlinear cut lines 151 B, 153B define a waist.

The third locking tab 150B may be substantially hour glass shaped and comprise a first proximal trapezoidal portion proximate to the third hinged connection F3 and a second distal trapezoidal portion distal from the third hinged connection F3.

The fifth and sixth nonlinear cut lines 151 B, 153B define a pair of opposed shoulders or engaging portions E5, E6 in a distal portion of the third locking tab 150B. The shoulders or engaging portions E5, E6 are disposed adjacent to a free end edge of the third locking tab 150B.

The second aperture LA2 may be substantially rectangular in shape.

The seventh nonlinear cut line 155B and the eighth nonlinear cut line 157B define opposed side edges of the fourth locking tab 152B.

Each of the seventh and eighth nonlinear cut lines 155B, 157B is defined by a first linear portion contiguously arranged with a second linear portion. The first and second linear portions being divergently arranged with respect to each other. The seventh and eighth nonlinear cut lines 155B, 157B define a pair of opposed shoulders or engaging portions E7, E8.

The second aperture LA2 defines a first free end edge of the fourth locking tab 152B and extends between first or distal ends of the third and fourth nonlinear cut lines 155A, 157A. Second or proximal ends of the seventh and eighth nonlinear cut lines 155B, 157B define a fourth hinged connection F4 between the fourth locking tab 152B and the fourth main panel 120.

The fourth locking tab 152B may be substantially hexagonal in shape and comprise a first proximal trapezoidal portion proximate to the fourth hinged connection F4 and a second distal trapezoidal portion distal from the fourth hinged connection F4.

The seventh and eighth nonlinear cut lines 155B, 157B together with the second aperture LA2 define a pair of opposed catches or detents S7, S8 on opposing side edges of the opening in the fourth main panel 120.

Figure 11 illustrates the locking structure in a locked condition, the first locking element L1 is disposed in face to face relationship with the second locking element L2. The first locking element L1 is inverted with respect to the second locking element L2. The first locking tab 150A is disposed in vertical registry with the fourth locking tab 152B. The second locking tab 152A is disposed in vertical registry with the third locking tab 150B.

The first locking tab 150A is hinged in sympathy with the fourth locking tab 152B. The second locking tab 152A is hinged in sympathy with the third locking tab 150B.

The first locking tab 150A is hinged in opposition to the second locking tab 152A. The third locking tab 150B is hinged in opposition to the fourth locking tab 152B.

The first hinged connection F1 is disposed substantially in alignment with the fourth hinged connection F4. The second hinged connection F2 is disposed substantially in alignment with the third hinged connection F3.

The second locking tab 152A may be pressed or punched through the fourth panel 120, as shown in Figure 11 . The fourth locking tab 152B may be pressed or punched through the third panel 118.

Each of the engaging portions E3, E4 of the second locking tab 152A engages with a respective one of the detents S5, S6 provided by the fourth panel 120 and defined by the fifth and sixth nonlinear cut lines 151 B, 153B. Each of the engaging portions E7, E8 of the fourth locking tab 152B engages with a respective one of the detents S1 , S2 provided by the third panel 118 and defined by the first and second nonlinear cut lines 151 A, 153A.

In this way the locking structure can be deployed from either side of the pair of panels 118, 120. The third and fourth panels 118, 120 can be secured together by displacing at least two of the locking tabs 150A, 152A, 150B, 152B.

In some embodiments the third locking tab 150B may be pressed or punched through the third panel 118; engaging portions E5, E6 of the third locking tab 150B may engage with detents S3, S4 provided by the third panel 118 and defined by the third and fourth nonlinear cut lines 155A, 157A.

In some embodiments the first locking tab 150A may be pressed or punched through the fourth panel 120; engaging portions E1 , E2 of the first locking tab 150A may engage with detents S7, S8 provided by the fourth panel 120 and defined by the seventh and eighth nonlinear cut lines 155B, 157B.

In some embodiments, the horizonal lengths of two adjacent ones of the main panels 14, 16, 18, 20; 114, 116, 118, 120 may be substantially different such that the cross section of the resultant tubular structure takes a rectangular shape. In such embodiments, the first and second locking elements L1 , L2 may not be formed in adjacent main panels such as the third and fourth main panels 18, 20; 118, 120 respectively but in the first and third panels 14, 18; 114, 118 respectively or in the second and fourth main panels 16, 20; 116, 120 respectively.

The present disclosure provides a carrier 90; 290 comprising at least four panels 14, 16, 18, 20; 114, 116, 118, 120 hingedly connected together to form a tubular structure. The carrier 90; 290 comprises a locking device L1/L2 for locking the tubular structure in a flat collapsed form. In the flat collapsed form, a first one of the at least four panels 14, 16, 18, 20; 114, 116, 118, 120 is in an overlapping arrangement with a second one of the at least four panels 14, 16, 18, 20; 114, 116, 118, 120. The locking device comprises at least one male locking tab 42; 150A, 150B formed from the first one of the at least four panels 14, 16, 18, 20; 114, 116, 118, 120 and at least one female locking opening for engaging with the at least one male locking tab 42; 150A, 150B. The at least one female locking opening is defined in the second one of the at least four panels 14, 16, 18, 20; 114, 116, 118, 120 at such a position that the at least one female opening registers with the at least one male locking tab when the tubular structure is in the collapsed form 42; 150A, 150B. The present disclosure also provides a carrier 90; 290 comprising at least a first panel 20; 118, 120, a second panel 18; 118, 120 and a locking device L1/L2 for interconnecting the first and second panels 18, 20; 118, 120 in an overlapping arrangement. The locking device L1/L2 comprises at least one first tab 42; 150A, 150B struck from the first panel 20; 118, 120 and foldably connected thereto about a first notional line n₂; mi, m₃. The locking device L1/L2 comprises at least one second tab 40; 152A, 152B struck from the second panel 18; 118, 120 and foldably connected thereto about a second notional line ; m₂, m₄. The first and second notional lines n₂, m; mi, m₃, m₂, m₄ coextensively register with each other when the first and second panel 18, 20; 118, 120 are in the overlapping arrangement. The at least one first tab 42; 150A, 150B comprises a first engaging portion E1 , E2; E1 , E2, E5, E6 at a corner defined by a free end edge and a side edge. The at least one second tab 40; 152A, 152B comprises a second engaging portion E3, E4; E3, E4, E7, E8 defined by a non-linear side edge. The at least one first tab 42; 150A, 150B is configured and sized such that the first engaging portion E1 , E2; E1 , E2, E5, E6 is engageable with the perimeter of an opening defined in the second panel 18; 118, 120 by the at least one second tab 40; 152A, 152B. The at least one second tab 40; 152A, 152B is configured and sized such that the second engaging portion E3, E4; E3, E4, E7, E8 is engageable with the perimeter of an opening defined in the first panel 20; 118, 120 by the at least one first tab 42; 150A, 150B.

The first panel 20; 118, 120 may comprise an aperture LA1 ; LA1 , LA2 contiguously arranged the at least one first tab 42; 150A, 150B to expand the a dimension, a linear dimension or length of the opening defined by the at least one first tab 42; 150A, 150B so as to facilitate the locking process.

The second panel 18; 118, 120 may comprise an aperture LA2; LA1 , LA2 contiguously arranged the at least one second tab 40; 152A, 152B to expand the a dimension, a linear dimension or length of the opening defined by the at least one second tab 40; 152A, 152B so as to facilitate the locking process.

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

As used herein, the terms “hinged connection” and “fold line” refer to all manner of lines that define hinge features of the blank, facilitate folding portions of the blank with respect to one another, or otherwise indicate optimal panel folding locations for the blank. Any reference to “hinged connection” should not be construed as necessarily referring to a single fold line only; indeed, a hinged connection can be formed from two or more fold lines wherein each of the two or more fold lines may be either straight/linear or curved/curvilinear in shape. When linear fold lines form a hinged connection, they may be disposed parallel with each other or be slightly angled with respect to each other. When curvilinear fold lines form a hinged connection, they may intersect each other to define a shaped panel within the area surrounded by the curvilinear fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may comprise a pair of arched or arcuate fold lines intersecting at two points such that they define an elliptical panel therebetween. A hinged connection may be formed from one or more linear fold lines and one or more curvilinear fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may comprise a combination of a linear fold line and an arched or arcuate fold line which intersect at two points such that they define a half moon-shaped panel therebetween.

As used herein, the term “fold line” may refer to one of the following: a scored line, an embossed line, a debossed line, a line of perforations, a line of short slits, a line of half-cuts, a single half-cut, an interrupted cut line, a line of aligned slits, a line of scores and any combination of the aforesaid options.

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

The phrase “in registry with” as used herein refers to the alignment of two or more elements in an erected carton, such as an aperture formed in a first of two overlapping panels and a second aperture formed in a second of two overlapping panels. Those elements in registry with each other may be aligned with each other in the direction of the thickness of the overlapping panels. For example, when an aperture in a first panel is “in registry with” a second aperture in a second panel that is placed in an overlapping arrangement with the first panel, an edge of the aperture may extend along at least a portion of an edge of the second aperture and may be aligned, in the direction of the thickness of the first and second panels, with the second aperture.

Claims (1)

1. CLAIMS A carrier for packaging at least one article, the carrier comprising at least four panels hingedly connected together to form a tubular structure, and a locking device for locking the tubular structure in a flat collapsed form, in which a first one of the at least four panels is in an overlapping arrangement with a second one of the at least four panels, wherein the locking device comprises at least one male locking tab formed from the first one of the at least four panels and at least one female locking opening for engaging with the at least one male locking tab, the at least one female locking opening being defined in the second one of the at least four panels so as to be in registry with the at least one male locking tab when the tubular structure is in the collapsed form. A carrier, according to claim 2, wherein the second one of the at least four panels comprises at least one second male locking tab and the first one of the at least four panels comprises at least one second female locking opening for engaging with the at least one second male locking tab, the at least one second female locking opening being defined in the first one of the at least four panels so as to be in registry with the at least one second male locking tab when the tubular structure is in the collapsed form. A carrier for packaging at least one article, the carrier comprises at least a first panel, a second panel and a locking device for interconnecting the first and second panels in an overlapping arrangement, the locking device comprising at least one first tab struck from the first panel and foldably connected thereto about a first notional line, the locking device comprising at least one second tab struck from the second panel and foldably connected thereto about a second notional line, the first and second notional lines coextensively register with each other when the first and second panel are in the overlapping arrangement, the at least one first tab comprising a first engaging portion at a corner defined by a free end edge and a side edge, the at least one second tab comprises a second engaging portion defined by a non-linear side edge, wherein the at least one first tab is configured and sized such that the first engaging portion is engageable with the perimeter of an opening defined in the second panel by the at least one second tab, and wherein the at least one second tab is configured and sized such that the second engaging portion is engageable with the perimeter of an opening defined in the first panel by the at least one first tab. A carrier, according to claim 3, wherein the first panel comprises a first aperture contiguously with arranged the at least one first tab to expand a dimension of the opening defined by the at least one first tab.

   - 25 - A carrier, according to claim 3, wherein the second panel comprises a second aperture contiguously with arranged the at least one second tab to expand a dimension of the opening defined by the at least one second tab. A carrier, according to claim 3, wherein the at least one first tab comprises at least one nonlinear side edge so as to define a waist. A carrier, according to claim 3, wherein the at least one second tab comprises at least one nonlinear side edge so as to define a shoulder. A carrier, according to claim 3, wherein the at least one first tab comprises a first trapezoidal portion and a second trapezoidal portion contiguous therewith, the second trapezoidal portion being inverted with respect to the first trapezoidal portion. A carrier, according to claim 7, wherein the at least one second tab comprises a first trapezoidal portion and a second trapezoidal portion contiguous therewith, the second trapezoidal portion being inverted with respect to the first trapezoidal portion. A carrier, according to claim 9, wherein first trapezoidal portion of the at least one second tab is inverted with respect to the first trapezoidal portion of the at least one first tab. A carrier, according to claim 3, wherein the at least one first tab comprises a pair of opposed nonlinear side edges so as to define a waist. A carrier, according to claim 3, wherein the at least one second tab comprises a pair of opposed nonlinear side edges so as to define a pair of shoulders. A carrier, according to claim 4, wherein the first aperture is rectangular in shape. A carrier, according to claim 5, wherein the second aperture is trapezoidal in shape. A carrier, according to claim 3, wherein the locking device comprises at least one third tab struck from the first panel and foldably connected thereto about a third notional line, the locking device comprising at least one fourth tab struck from the second panel and foldably connected thereto about a fourth notional line, the third and fourth notional lines coextensively register with each other when the first and second panel are in the overlapping arrangement, the at least one third tab comprises a third engaging portion defined by a non-linear side edge, the at least one fourth tab comprising a fourth engaging portion at a corner defined by a free end edge and a side edge, wherein the at least one third tab is configured and sized such that the third engaging portion is engageable with the perimeter of an opening defined in the second panel by the at least one fourth tab, and wherein the at least one fourth tab is configured and sized such that the fourth engaging portion is engageable with the perimeter of an opening defined in the first panel by the at least one third tab. A carrier, according to claim 15, wherein a first aperture is provided in the first panel and spaces apart the first and third tabs. A carrier, according to claim 15, wherein a second aperture is provided in the second panel and spaces apart the second and fourth tabs. A carrier, according to claim 3, wherein the locking device is lockable by pressing at least a portion of the at least one first tab through the opening in the second panel. A carrier, according to claim 3, wherein the locking device is lockable by pressing at least a portion of the at least one second tab through the opening in the first panel. A locking device for interconnecting a first panel and a second panel in an overlapping arrangement, the locking device comprising at least one first tab struck from the first panel and foldably connected thereto about a first notional line, the locking device comprising at least one second tab struck from the second panel and foldably connected thereto about a second notional line, the first and second notional lines coextensively register with each other when the first and second panel are in the overlapping arrangement, the at least one first tab comprising a first engaging portion at a corner defined by a free end edge and a side edge, the at least one second tab comprises a second engaging portion defined by a non-linear side edge, wherein the at least one first tab is configured and sized such that the first engaging portion is engageable with the perimeter of an opening defined in the second panel by the at least one second tab, and wherein the at least one second tab is configured and sized such that the second engaging portion is engageable with the perimeter of an opening defined in the first panel by the at least one first tab. A blank for forming a carrier, the blank comprising a plurality of panels including at least four panels hingedly connected together to form a tubular structure, and a locking device for locking the tubular structure in a flat collapsed form, in which a first one of the at least four panels is in an overlapping arrangement with a second one of the at least four panels, wherein the locking device comprises at least one male locking tab formed from the first one of the at least four panels and at least one female locking opening for engaging with the at least one male locking tab, the at least one female locking opening being defined in the second one of the at least four panels so as to be in registry with the at least one male locking tab when the tubular structure is in the collapsed form. A blank for forming a carrier, the blank comprising a plurality of panels including at least a first panel and a second panel, the blank further comprising a locking device for interconnecting the first and second panels in an overlapping arrangement, the locking device comprising at least one first tab struck from the first panel and foldably connected thereto about a first notional line, the locking device comprising at least one second tab struck from the second panel and foldably connected thereto about a second notional line, the first and second notional lines coextensively register with each other when the first and second panel are in the overlapping arrangement, the at least one first tab comprising a first engaging portion at a corner defined by a free end edge and a side edge, the at least one second tab comprises a second engaging portion defined by a non-linear side edge, wherein the at least one first tab is configured and sized such that the first engaging portion is engageable with the perimeter of an opening defined in the second panel by the at least one second tab, and wherein the at least one second tab is configured and sized such that the second engaging portion is engageable with the perimeter of an opening defined in the first panel by the at least one first tab.

   - 28 -