AU2022323256A1 - Article carrier and blank therefor - Google Patents

Abstract

Aspects of the disclosure relate to a package, an article carrier for packaging one or more articles and a blank for forming the carrier. The article carrier 90; 290 comprises a pair of spaced panels including a covering panel 18/20; 118/120; 254 and an engaging panel 12; 112; 212. A male locking tab 80; 180; 280; 380; 480; 580; 680; 580 formed from the covering panel 18/20; 118/120; 254 connects the covering panel 18/20; 118/120; 254 with the engaging panel 12; 112; 212. The locking tab 80; 180; 280; 380; 480; 580; 680; 580 is hingedly connected to the covering panel 18/20; 118/120; 254 along a fold line 81; 181; 281; 381; 481; 581. The fold line 81; 181; 281; 381; 481; 581 lies upon a notional line n-n which extends obliquely with respect to at least one of an end edge M1, M2 and a side edge 19; 119 of the covering panel 18/20; 118/120; 254.

Description

ARTICLE CARRIER AND BLANK THEREFOR

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to article carriers and to blanks for forming the same. More specifically, but not exclusively, the invention relates to a carrier of the top-gripping type having one or more apertures for receiving and retaining an article therein and a top cover affixed thereto.

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.

It is well known to provide top gripping article carriers in which an aperture is formed in a panel of the carrier, wherein tabs are struck from said aperture. The tabs are displaced out of the plane of said panel when an article is received in the aperture, wherein said tabs engage the article generally about a flange or lip of the article.

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

SUMMARY

A first aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for engaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises an engaging panel including two or more article retention structures. Each article retention structure comprises an article receiving opening defined in part by an aperture and in part by a plurality of engaging tabs disposed about the aperture. A first article retention structure comprises a first engaging tab and a second article retention structure comprises a second engaging tab. The second article retention structure is disposed adjacent to the first article retention structure. The first engaging tab is connected to the engaging panel via the second engaging tab. The second engaging tab is connected directly to the engaging panel by at least one connecting element. Optionally, the at least one connecting element comprises a pair of connecting elements connecting opposed marginal portions of the second engaging tab to the engaging panel.

Optionally, the first engaging tab is hingedly connected to a medial portion of the second engaging tab.

Optionally, the first engaging tab comprises a first width dimension and the second engaging tab comprises a second width dimension, the second width dimension being greater than the first width dimension.

Optionally, the article carrier further comprises a third article retention structure, the third article retention structure being disposed adjacent to the first article retention structure, wherein the first article retention structure comprises a third engaging tab disposed generally orthogonally to the first engaging tab and the third article retention structure comprises a fourth engaging tab wherein a first one of the third and fourth engaging tabs is connected directly to the engaging panel by at least one second connecting element and the other one of the third and fourth engaging tabs is connected to said first one of the third and fourth engaging tabs.

Optionally, the at least one second connecting element comprises a pair of second connecting elements connecting opposed marginal portions of the said first one of the third and fourth engaging tabs to the engaging panel.

Optionally, the other one of the third and fourth engaging tabs is hingedly connected to a medial portion of said first one of the third and fourth engaging tabs.

Optionally, the first one of the third and fourth engaging tabs comprises a third width dimension and the other one of the third and fourth engaging tabs comprises a fourth width dimension, the third width dimension being greater than the fourth width dimension.

Optionally, a tooth free region is provided between the second engaging tab and the first one of the third and fourth engaging tabs.

A second aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises an engaging panel including two or more article retention structures. Each article retention structure comprises an article receiving opening defined in part by an aperture and in part by a plurality of engaging tabs disposed about the aperture. A first article retention structure comprises a first engaging tab and a second article retention structure comprises a second engaging tab. The second article retention structure is disposed adjacent to the first article retention structure. The first engaging tab is connected to the engaging panel via the second engaging tab. The second engaging tab is connected directly to the engaging panel by at least one connecting element.

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 A is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a first embodiment;

Figure 1 B is an enlarged plan view from above of a portion of the blank of Figure 1A;

Figure 2 is an enlarged view of article retention devices according to the first embodiment;

Figure 3 is a perspective view from above of a carrier formed from the blank of Figure 1A;

Figure 4 is a perspective view from above of a portion an engaging panel of the carrier of Figure 3;

Figure 5 illustrates a plan view of article retention devices according to a second embodiment; and

Figure 6 illustrates a plan view of article retention devices according to a third embodiment. 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 carton or carrier 90, as shown in Figure 3, for containing and carrying a group of primary products such as, but not limited to, bottles or cans, hereinafter referred to as articles B. The blank 10 forms a secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package. A portion of alternative blanks 110; 210 is illustrated in Figures 5 and 6.

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 aluminium cans), tins, pouches, packets and the like.

The blanks 10; 110; 210 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 described herein may be formed from a sheet material such as paperboard, which may be made of or coated with materials to increase its strength. An example of such a sheet material is tear-resistant NATRALOCK® paperboard made by WestRock Company. 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. Typically, 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.

In the illustrated embodiments, the blank 10 is configured to form a carton or carrier 90 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles B. In the illustrated embodiment, the arrangement is a 2 x 4 matrix or array; four rows of two articles B are provided, and the articles B are 330ml beverage cans of a sleek or slim design. The blank 110 is configured to form a carton or carrier for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles B. In Figure 5, the arrangement is a 2 x 2 matrix or array; two rows of four articles B are provided, and the articles B are 330ml beverage cans of a sleek or slim design. The blank 210 is configured to form a carton or carrier for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles B. In Figure 6, the arrangement is a 3 x 4 matrix or array; four rows of three articles B are provided, and the articles B are 330ml beverage cans of a sleek or slim design.

Alternatively, the blanks 10; 110; 210 can be configured to form a carrier for packaging other types, number and size of articles and/or for packaging articles in a different arrangement or configuration.

Referring to Figure 1A there is shown a blank 10 comprising a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, including a main panel 12 for forming a lower wall or engaging panel of a carrier 90 (see Figure 3).

A first side panel 14 is hingedly connected to a first side of the main panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 13. A first top or cover panel 18 is hingedly connected to the first side panel 14 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 17.

A second side panel 16 is hingedly connected to a second side of the main panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 15. A second top or cover panel 20 is hingedly connected to the second side panel 16 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 19. The main panel 12 of the blank 10 includes at least one article retention structure RT1 , RT2, RT3, RT4. The main panel 12 comprises a plurality of article retention structures RT1 , RT2, RT3, RT4 specifically eight article retention structures RT 1 , RT2, RT3, RT4 arranged in 2 x 4 matrix or array. Each of the article retention structures RT1 , RT2, RT3, RT4 comprises an opening or aperture A1 , A2, A3, A4.

The article retention structures RT1 , RT2, RT3, RT4 of the embodiment of Figure 1 A take the form of a plurality of teeth or tabs 40, 42, 44, 46, 48 arranged in an annular series about an aperture A1 , A2, A3, A4 to form part of an article receiving opening.

The plurality of teeth 40, 42, 44, 46, 48 are provided by the main panel 12. Each of the teeth 40, 42, 44, 46, 48 is hingedly connected to the main panel 12, by a hinged connection. The hinged connection may be defined by a plurality of cut lines 45, 47, 49. The plurality of cut lines 45, 47, 49 may be arranged as an annular series of cuts about the apertures A1 , A2, A3, A4.

The plurality of cut lines 45, 47, 49 may define or approximate a portion of circle.

Each of the plurality of teeth 40, 42, 44, 46, 48 comprises an engaging edge E1 opposing a hinged edge. The engaging edges are defined by a portion of a cut line defining the aperture A1 , A2, A3, A4 about which the teeth 40, 42, 44, 46, 48 are disposed.

The main panel 12 comprises at least one first article retention structure RT1 , best illustrated in Figure 2.

The first article retention structure RT1 comprises a plurality of teeth 40, 42, 44, 48 disposed about a first aperture A1. Each of the plurality of teeth 40, 42, 44, 48 comprises an engaging edge E1 opposing a hinged edge. The engaging edges E1 are defined by a linear portion of a cut line defining the first aperture A1 . Each engaging edge E1 defines a part of a hexadecagon. The illustrated embodiment comprises sixteen teeth 40, 42, 44, 48 together defining a hexadecagon. Each tooth 40, 42, 44, 48 comprises a pair of side edges, the side edges are defined by cut lines 41 , 43, 51 , 53 extending radially outward from respective vertices of the hexadecagon. That is to say from a respective vertex between a pair of adjacent linear portions of the cut line defining the first aperture A1. The cut lines 41 , 43, 51 , 53 are divergently arranged with respect to each other and define an angle therebetween, the angle may be about 22.5°. The first article retention structure RT 1 comprises a first tooth 48 defined by a pair of radial cutlines 53 and hinged to the second end panel 34 by a portion of the fold line 35. The cutlines 53 may be linear in shape and may terminate at or about the fold line 35. The first article retention structure RT1 comprises a second tooth 44 defined by a pair of radial cutlines 51 and hinged to the first side panel 14 by a portion of the fold line 13. The cutlines 51 may comprise a linear portion and may terminate in a “J” or “C” shaped cut.

The first article retention structure RT1 comprises a pair of third teeth 40 each defined by a pair of radial cutlines 43 and hinged to the main panel 12 by a fold line 49. The fold line 49 may be radially offset with respect to the fold line 45, 47. A first one of the pair of third teeth 40 is diametrically opposed to the first tooth 48, a second one of the pair of third teeth 40 is diametrically opposed to the second tooth 44.

Three fourth teeth 42 are disposed between the pair of third teeth 40, and are hinged to the main panel by a hinged connection defined by the cutlines 45, 47.

Three fourth teeth 42 are disposed between the first tooth 48 and the second tooth 44. Three fourth teeth 42 are disposed between the second tooth 44 and the first one of the pair of third teeth 40. Three fourth teeth 42 are disposed between the first tooth 48 and the second one of the pair of third teeth 40.

Each of the third teeth 40 is arranged back-to-back with a respective article retention structure RT2, RT4. The first one of the pair of third teeth 40 is arranged to be back-to-back with a fourth article retention structure RT4. The second one of the pair of third teeth 40 is arranged to be back-to-back with a second article retention structure RT2.

The main panel 12 comprises at least one second article retention structure RT2, best illustrated in Figure 2.

The second article retention structure RT2 comprises a plurality of teeth 40, 42, 44, 46, 48 disposed about a second aperture A2. Each of the plurality of teeth 40, 42, 44, 46, 48 comprises an engaging edge E1 opposing a hinged edge. The engaging edges E1 are defined by a linear portion of a cut line defining the second aperture A2. The illustrated embodiment comprises fourteen teeth 40, 42, 44, 46, 48 together defining the second aperture A2. Each tooth 40, 42, 44, 46, 48 comprises a pair of side edges, the side edges are defined by cut lines 41 , 43, 51 , 53, 55 extending radially outward the second aperture A2. The second article retention structure RT2 comprises a first tooth 48 defined by a pair of radial cutlines 53 and hinged to the second end panel 34 by a portion of the fold line 35. The cutlines 53 may be linear in shape and may terminate at or about the fold line 35. The second article retention structure RT2 comprises a second tooth 44 defined by a pair of radial cutlines 51 and hinged to the second side panel 16 by a portion of the fold line 15. The cutlines 51 may comprise a linear portion and may terminate in a “J” or “C” shaped cut.

The second article retention structure RT2 comprises a third tooth 40 defined by a pair of radial cutlines 43 and hinged to the main panel 12 by a fold line 49. The fold line 49 may be radially offset with respect to the fold lines 45, 47. The third tooth 40 is diametrically opposed to the first tooth 48.

Three fourth teeth 42 are disposed between the first tooth 48 and the second tooth 44, and are hinged to the main panel by a hinged connection defined by the cutlines 45, 47.

Three fourth teeth 42 are disposed between the second tooth 44 and the third tooth 40.

The second article retention structure RT2 comprises a fifth tooth 46 defined by a pair of cutlines 55 and hinged to the main panel 12 by a fold line 49. The fifth tooth 46 of the second article retention structure RT2 and the second one of the pair of third teeth 40 of the first article retention structure RT1 are disposed back-to-back with each other and share the fold line 49 therebetween. The fifth tooth 46 is wider than said second one of the pair of third teeth 40, marginal portions of the fifth tooth 46 are hinged to the main panel 12, a medial portion of the fifth tooth 46 is hinged to said second one of the pair of third teeth 40.

Two fourth teeth 42 are disposed between the first tooth 48 and the fifth tooth 46. Two fourth teeth 42 are disposed between the third tooth 40 and the fifth tooth 46.

The third tooth 40 is arranged back-to-back with a third article retention structure RT3.

The main panel 12 comprises at least one third article retention structure RT3, and may comprise a plurality of third article retention structures RT3; the illustrated embodiment comprises three third article retention structures RT3.

The third article retention structure RT3 comprises a plurality of teeth 40, 42, 44, 46 disposed about a third aperture A3. Each of the plurality of teeth 40, 42, 44, 46 comprises an engaging edge E1 opposing a hinged edge. The engaging edges E1 are defined by a linear portion of a cut line defining the third aperture A3. The illustrated embodiment comprises eleven teeth 40, 42, 44, 46 together defining a portion of the third aperture A3. The third article retention structure RT3 may comprise a tooth free region 50. Each tooth 40, 42, 44, 46 comprises a pair of side edges, the side edges are defined by cut lines 41 , 43, 51 , 55 extending radially outward the third aperture A3.

The third article retention structure RT3 comprises a second tooth 44 defined by a pair of radial cutlines 51 and hinged to the second side panel 16 by a portion of the fold line 15. The cutlines 51 may comprise a linear portion and may terminate in a “J” or “C” shaped cut.

The third article retention structure RT3 comprises a third tooth 40 defined by a pair of radial cutlines 43 and hinged to the main panel 12 by a fold line 49. The fold line 49 may be radially offset with respect to the fold lines 45, 47.

The third article retention structure RT3 comprises a pair of fifth teeth 46 each defined by a pair of cutlines 55 and hinged to the main panel 12 by a fold line 49. A first one of the fifth teeth 46 of the third article retention structure RT3 and the third tooth 40 of the second article retention structure RT2 are disposed back-to-back with each other and share the fold line 49 therebetween. The first one of the fifth teeth 46 is wider than said third tooth 40, marginal portions of the first one of the fifth teeth 46 are hinged to the main panel 12, a medial portion of the first one of the fifth teeth 46 is hinged to said third tooth 40.

The third tooth 40 of the third article retention structure RT3 is diametrically opposed to the first one of the fifth teeth 46.

A second one of the fifth teeth 46 of the third article retention structure RT3 is diametrically opposed to the second tooth 44.

Three fourth teeth 42 are disposed between the second tooth 44 and the third tooth 40, and are hinged to the main panel by a hinged connection defined by the cutlines 45, 47.

Two fourth teeth 42 are disposed between the second tooth 44 and the first one of the fifth teeth 46. Two fourth teeth 42 are disposed between the third tooth 40 and the second one of the fifth teeth 46.

A tooth free region 50 is provide between the pair of fifth teeth 46. The second one of the fifth teeth 46 is arranged back-to-back with a fourth article retention structure RT4.

The main panel 12 comprises at least one fourth article retention structure RT4, and may comprise a plurality of fourth article retention structures RT4; the illustrated embodiment comprises three fourth article retention structures RT4.

The fourth article retention structure RT4 comprises a plurality of teeth 40, 42, 44, 46 disposed about a fourth aperture A4. Each of the plurality of teeth 40, 42, 44, 46 comprises an engaging edge E1 opposing a hinged edge. The engaging edges E1 are defined by a linear portion of a cut line defining the fourth aperture A4. The illustrated embodiment comprises fifteen teeth 40, 42, 44, 46 together defining the fourth aperture A4. Each tooth 40, 42, 44, 46 comprises a pair of side edges, the side edges are defined by cut lines 41 , 43, 51 , 55 extending radially outward the fourth aperture A4.

The fourth article retention structure RT4 comprises a second tooth 44 defined by a pair of radial cutlines 51 and hinged to the first side panel 14 by a portion of the fold line 13. The cutlines 51 may comprise a linear portion and may terminate in a “J” or “C” shaped cut.

The fourth article retention structure RT4 comprises a pair of third teeth 40 defined by a pair of radial cutlines 43 and hinged to the main panel 12 by a fold line 49. The fold line 49 may be radially offset with respect to the fold lines 45, 47. A first one of the third teeth 40 is diametrically opposed to the second tooth 44. A second one of the third teeth 40 is diametrically opposed to a fifth tooth 46.

The first one of the third teeth 40 is arranged back-to-back with the third article retention structure RT3. The second one of the fifth teeth 46 of the third article retention structure RT3 and the first one of the pair of third teeth 40 of the fourth article retention structure RT4 are disposed back-to-back with each other and share the fold line 49 therebetween.

The fifth tooth 46 is defined by a pair of cutlines 55 and is hinged to the main panel 12 by a fold line 49. The fifth tooth 46 is arranged back-to-back with the first article retention structure RT1. The fifth tooth 46 of the fourth article retention structure RT4 and the first one of the pair of third teeth 40 of the first article retention structure RT 1 are disposed back-to-back with each other and share the fold line 49 therebetween. The fifth tooth 46 is wider than said first one of the pair of third teeth 40 of the first article retention structure RT1 , marginal portions of the fifth tooth 46 are hinged to the main panel 12, a medial portion of the fifth tooth 46 is hinged to said first one of the pair of third teeth 40 of the first article retention structure RT1.

Three fourth teeth 42 are disposed between the second tooth 44 and the second one of the third teeth 40, and are hinged to the main panel by a hinged connection defined by the cutlines

45, 47.

Three fourth teeth 42 are disposed between the pair of third teeth 40.

Two fourth teeth 42 are disposed between the first one of the third teeth 40 and the fifth tooth

46. Two fourth teeth 42 are disposed between the second tooth 44 and the fifth tooth 46.

The fifth tooth 46 is arranged back-to-back with the first article retention structure RT 1 .

A first, second, third, and fourth article retention structure RT1 , RT2, RT3, RT4 form a 2 x 2 matrix or array of article retention structures RT1 , RT2, RT3, RT4 as shown in Figure 2 capable of accommodating four articles B. In order to accommodate more articles B additional third and fourth article retention structures RT3, RT4 may be employed to increase the matrix or array dimensions, in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1 a 2 x 4 matrix or array is shown and employs three third article retention structures RT3 and three fourth article retention structures RT4. It will be appreciated that the article retention structure RT1 , RT2, RT3, RT4 may be readily adapted to provide an n x m matrix or array where n and m are any integer number.

Provision of a fifth tooth 46 back-to-back with a third tooth 40 at locations where two adjacent apertures A1 , A2, A3, A4 are disposed in close proximity, may be advantageous, for example when packaging articles B of the sleek or slim design, and has been found to reduce the likelihood of tear propagation. Slim design articles B are those which are substantially of the same diameter over their entire height. In some embodiments the variation in diameter between a top closure of the article B and the main body of the article B may be less than 7mm, may be less than 5mm and optionally is less than 4mm. This beneficial advantage may be a result of offsetting the radial cut lines 43 with respect to the cutlines 55 in regions of the blank 10 where the apertures A1 , A2, A3, A4 are in close proximity.

It will be appreciated that the third tooth 40 of a given one of the article retention structures RT1 , RT2, RT3, RT4 is not hinged directly to the main panel 12 but is hinged to the main panel 12 via a respective fifth tooth 46 of another, adjacent, one of the article retention structures RT1 , RT2, RT3, RT4.

The fifth tooth 46 is directly connected to the main panel 12 by at least one connecting element N1 , N2; in the illustrated embodiment a pair of connecting elements N1 , N2 are provided and connect opposed marginal portions of the fifth tooth 46 to the main panel 12.

In the third and fourth article retention structure RT3’, RT4’ adjacent to the first end panel 24 the third tooth 40 of the third article retention structure RT3’ and the second one of the third teeth 40 of the fourth article retention structure RT4’ is replaced with a first tooth 48 defined by a pair of radial cutlines 53 and hinged to the first end panel 24 by a portion of the fold line 25. The cutlines 53 may be linear in shape and may terminate at or about the fold line 25.

The main panel 12 may comprise a handle structure. The handle structure may comprise at least one handle opening. In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 10 comprises three handle openings. Each handle opening is defined in or struck from a region of the main panel 12 disposed centrally between four apertures A1 , A2, A3, A4 arranged as two adjacent pairs of apertures A1 , A2, A3, A4.

The handle opening in the main panel 12 is defined by a pair of tabs 60, 62. The pair of tabs 60, 62 includes a first tab 60 hinged to the main panel 12. The hinged connection between the first tab 60 and the main panel 12 defines a portion of a first edge of the handle opening. The pair of tabs 60, 62 includes a second tab 62 hinged to the main panel 12. The hinged connection between the second tab 62 and the main panel 12 defines a portion of a second, adjacent, edge of the handle opening. The second tab 62 is defined in part by a substantially “V” shaped cutline extending between the first and second edges of the handle opening. The first tab 60 may define at least a portion of at least three edges of the handle opening, and may define at least a portion of four edges of the handle opening. The handle opening may be substantially square or diamond shaped. The handle opening may provide a receiver element RC for receiving at least one locking tab 74, 76 of a locking structure L1 , L2. The “V” shaped cutline defines a recess or cutaway in the first tab 60 capable of receiving a portion of at least one male tab 74, 76.

The first and second top panels 18, 20 are arranged to be disposed in at least partially overlapping relationship with each other. The overlapping portions of the first and second top panels 18, 20 are provided with a locking structure L1 , L2 for locking the first and second top panels 18, 20. The locking structure L1 , L2 cooperates with the handle openings and the tabs 60, 62 in the main panel 12 to secure the first and second top panels 18, 20 to the main panel 12.

The locking structure L1 , L2 comprises at least one first locking element L1 for being received in the receiver element RC. The first locking element L1 comprises a tab 74 struck from the second top panel 20, the illustrated embodiment comprises three tabs 74 each arranged to be engageable with one of the handle or receiver openings and pass through an opening in the first top panel 18. Each tab 74 is hinged to the second top panel 20 by a hinged connection in the form of first fold line 75 having a first fold strength or resistance. The first fold line 74 may be defined by a single perforation or weakening element disposed between ends of a cutline defining the tab 74. In some embodiments the perforation or weakening element may be omitted.

The locking structure L1 , L2 comprises at least one second locking element L2 in the form of an opening in the first top panel 18. The second locking element L2 comprises a tab 76 struck from the first top panel 18, the illustrated embodiment comprises three tabs 76 each arranged to be engageable with one of the handle or receiver openings in the main panel 12. Each tab

76 is hinged to the first top panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of second fold line 77 having a second fold strength or resistance, the second fold resistance is lower than the first fold resistance, that is to say the second tabs 76 are more easily folded. The second fold line

77 may be defined by a two or more perforations or weakening elements disposed between ends of a cutline defining the tab 76. The second fold line 77 may comprise at least one more perforation than the first fold line 75, alternatively a greater proportion of the hinged connection between the main panel 18 and the second tabs 76 may be defined by, or comprise, a cut line, perforation or other weakening element than the hinged connection between the main panel 18 and the first tabs 74.

The second tab 76 should be at least equal in size to the first tab 74. The second tab 76 may be larger in dimension, in length and/or in width, than the first tab 74 so as to facilitate the first tab 74 readily passing through the first top panel 18. The first tab 74 comprises first shoulders or hook portions for engaging with the main panel 12. The second tab 76 comprises second shoulders or hook portions for engaging with the main panel 12. The second shoulders or hook portions may be configured and arranged to be substantially aligned with the first shoulders or hook portions when the lock tabs 74, 76 are in an engaged position. The locking tabs 74, 76 may be asymmetric in shape about a notional line m-m bisecting the locking tabs 74, 76 and extending perpendicularly to a notional line n-n parallel or coincident with the fold line 75, 77.

The first top panel 18, second top panel 20, first and second side panels 14, 16 and main panel 12 form a tubular structure. Each end of the tubular structure is closed by an end closure structure. A first end closure structure comprises a first end panel 24 hingedly connected to a first end of the main panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 25. A first top end flap 26 is hingedly connected to the first end panel 24 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 27.

A first anchor flap 22A is hingedly connected to a first end of the first side panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 23A. The first anchor flap 22A is hingedly connected to the first top end flap 26 by a pair of hinged panels 28A, 30A. The pair of hinged panels 28A, 30A form a gusset. A first connecting panel 28A is hingedly connected to the first anchor flap 22A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. A second connecting panel 30A is hingedly connected to the first connecting panel 28A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The second connecting panel 30A is hingedly connected to the first top end flap 26 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line.

A second anchor flap 22B is hingedly connected to a first end of the second side panel 20 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 23B. The second anchor flap 22B is hingedly connected to the first top end flap 26 by a pair of hinged panels 28B, 30B forming a second gusset. A third connecting panel 28B is hingedly connected to the second anchor flap 22B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. A fourth connecting panel 30B is hingedly connected to the third connecting panel 28B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The fourth connecting panel 30B is hingedly connected to the first top end flap 26 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line.

The first end panel 24 is separated from each of the first and second anchor flaps 22A, 22B by an aperture A10. The apertures A10 separate each of the pair of hinged panels 28A/30A, 28B/30B from the respective one of the first and second side panels 14, 16.

A second end closure structure comprises a second end panel 34 hingedly connected to a second end of the main panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 35. A second top end flap 36 is hingedly connected to the second end panel 34 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 37. A third anchor flap 32A is hingedly connected to a second end of the first side panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 33A. The third anchor flap 32A is hingedly connected to the second top end flap 36 by a pair of hinged panels 38A, 40A forming a third gusset. A fifth connecting panel 38A is hingedly connected to the third anchor flap 32A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. A sixth connecting panel 52A is hingedly connected to the fifth connecting panel 38A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The sixth connecting panel 52A is hingedly connected to the second top end flap 36 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line.

A fourth anchor flap 32B is hingedly connected to a second end of the second side panel 20 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 33B. The fourth anchor flap 32B is hingedly connected to the second top end flap 36 by a pair of hinged panels 38B, 40B forming a fourth gusset. A seventh connecting panel 38B is hingedly connected to the fourth anchor flap 32B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 39B (see Figure 1 B). An eighth connecting panel 52B is hingedly connected to the seventh connecting panel 38B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 55B. The eighth connecting panel 52B is hingedly connected to the second top end flap 36 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 59B.

The second end panel 34 is separated from each of the third and fourth anchor flaps 32A, 32B by an aperture A10. The apertures A10 separate each of the pair of hinged panels 38A/52A, 38B/52B from the respective one of the first and second side panels 14, 16.

Figure 1 B shows the fourth anchor flap 32B and adjacent portions of the second end closure structure in greater detail, it will be appreciated that the first, second, and third anchor flaps 22A, 22B, 32A are similarly arranged.

The fold line 33B hinging the fourth anchor flap 32B to the second top panel 20 is divergently arranged with respect to the fold line 35 hinging the second end panel 34 to the main panel 12. The fold line 33B and the fold line 35 define a first angle therebetween, the first angle may in the range 5° to 30°, preferably in the range 5° to 10°.

The fold line 33B hinging the fourth anchor flap 32B to the second top panel 20 is obliquely oriented with respect to the fold line 19 hinging the second top panel 20 to the second side panel 16. The fold line 33B and the fold line 19 define a second angle therebetween. The fold line 39B and the fold line 55B are arranged to be substantially parallel to each other and may be spaced apart from each other by a distance substantially equal to the space between fold line 15 and fold line 19.

The fold line 39B is divergently arranged with respect to the fold line 19 hinging the second top panel 20 to the second side panel 16.

The fold line 55B is divergently arranged with respect to the fold line 15 hinging the second side panel 16 to the main panel 12.

When the end closure structure is erected the fold line 39B is substantially in vertical alignment with the fold line 19 and the fold line 55B is substantially in vertical alignment with the fold line 15.

The fold line 59B is convergently arranged with respect to the fold line 55B. The fold line 59B and the fold line 55B define a third angle therebetween, the third angle may in the range 5° to 30°. The fold line 59B is convergently arranged with respect to the fold line 15 such that a notional extension of the fold line 59B intersects or meets with the fold line 15.

A notional extension of the fold line 55B may intersects or meets with a corner of the main panel 12, the corner being defined by the intersection of fold line 15 and fold line 35; said corner may also be coincident with a corner or vertex of the aperture A10.

The fold lines 39B, 55B, 59B are non-parallel to the fold lines 15, 19. The fold lines 39B, 55B, 59B are non-perpendicular to the fold lines 35, 37.

The fold line 33B is non-parallel to the fold lines 35, 37. The fold line 33B is non-perpendicular to the fold lines 15, 19.

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 Figure 3.

The blank 10 is applied to a group of articles B. The blank 10 is lowered with respect to a group of articles B. Each of the article retention structures RT1 , RT2, RT3, RT4 of the blank 10 is aligned with a respective article B in the group. Portions of the articles B pass through the main panel 12. The toothed regions of the main panel 12 about each of the article retention structures RT1 , RT2, RT3, RT4 may be folded out of the plane of the main panel 12. Each toothed region of the main panel 12 may be folded about one of the articles B received in the respective one of the article retention structures RT1 , RT2, RT3, RT4. The main panel 12 may deform about the article B for example but not limited to a shoulder portion of the article B, where the article B is a can the shoulder portion may be provide by the neck-in, as shown in Figure 4.

The engaging edges E1 of the teeth 40, 42, 46, 44, 48 engage beneath a projection. The projection may be located about the neck or chime of the article B (which may provide a flange) of an article B. When the article B is a can, the projection may be provided by a canner’s end seam. In other embodiments it may be provided by a ridge or undercut shaping of the article B or by an end closure of the article B for example but not limited to a crown cork or closure. In this way, the engaging edges grip or hold the article B and prevent or inhibit the article B from unintentionally separating from the main panel 12.

The blank 10 may be partially folded about fold lines 13, 15 to bring the first and second side panels 14, 16 into non-coplanar relationship with the main panel 12.

The blank 10 is folded about fold lines 23A, 23B, 33A, 33B to fold the first, second, third and fourth anchor flaps 22A, 22B, 32A, 32B into substantially face to face relationship with the first or second side panels 14, 16 to which they are hinged.

The blank 10 is folded about fold lines 25, 35 to fold the first and second end panels 24, 34 into substantially at least perpendicular relationship with the main panel 12. In some embodiments the first and second end panels 24, 34 may be folded through an angle greater than 90° so as to be inclined.

The blank 10 is folded about fold lines 27, 37 to fold the first and second top end flaps 26, 36 with respect to the respective one of the first and second end panels 24, 34 to which they are hinged.

The first and second top end flaps 26, 36 may be folded over an upper end of an article B or articles B disposed adjacent to the first and second ends of the main panel 12.

The first and second top end flaps 26, 36 may be folded to be substantially parallel to the main panel 12. The first and second end panels 24, 34 and first and second top end flaps 26, 36 may be folded automatically in response to folding the first, second, third and fourth anchor flaps 22A, 22B, 32A, 32B into substantially face contacting relationship with the respective one of the first and second side panels 14, 16.

The blank 10 is folded about fold lines 13, 15 to bring the first and second side panels 14, 316 into substantially perpendicular relationship with the main panel 12.

The blank 10 is folded about fold line 17 to fold the first top panel 18 over the tops of the articles B. The blank 10 is folded about fold line 19 to fold the second top panel 20 over the tops of the articles B and into overlapping relationship with the first top panel 18 to form a composite top panel 18/20.

The tab 74 of the first locking element L1 is displaced out of the plane of the second top panel 20, downwardly so as to pass through a respective one of the openings in the first top panel 18. The tabs 76 of the second locking elements L2 are displaced out of the plane of the first top panel 318 as a consequence creating said opening.

The tabs 74, 76 of the locking elements L1 , L2 are received in a respective handle opening and may engage with an edge the first handle tab 60.

Shoulders of the tabs 74, 76 may engage with an underside of the main panel 12, the underside being a second side of the main panel 12 opposing a first side through which the tabs 74, 76 were received.

The tabs 74, 76 may also provide a cushioning tab improving comfort when the package 90 is carried by inserting one or more fingers into the openings in the composite top panel 18/20 and the main panel 12.

Advantageously, the carrier 90 may be assembled or constructed without use of glue or adhesive to secure the panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 in an erected condition.

The carrier 90 may beneficially conceal a part of the articles B from view. The composite top panel 18/20 may conceal and/or protect a top or upper region of the articles B.

Figure 5 illustrates a blank 110 according to a second embodiment, the blank 110 comprises a main panel 112 for forming an engaging panel of a carrier (not shown). 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 4, therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 4 will be described in any greater detail.

The blank 110 comprises an alternative article retention structure RT1 , RT2, RT3, RT4. The article retention structures RT 1 , RT2, RT3, RT4 each comprise an opening or aperture A1 , A2, A3, A4.

The article retention structures RT1 , RT2, RT3, RT4 of the embodiment of Figure 5 are substantially similar in construction to the article retention structures RT1 , RT2, RT3, RT4 of Figures 1 to 4, albeit adapted such that each article retention structures RT1 , RT2, RT3, RT4 comprises a single third tooth 40 and a single fifth tooth 46, the tooth free region 50 has been omitted from the embodiment of Figure 5. The arrangement shown is configured to accommodate four articles B in 2 x 2 matrix or array.

Figure 6 illustrates a blank 210 according to a third embodiment, the blank 210 comprises a main panel 212 for forming an engaging panel of a carrier (not shown). In the third 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 third embodiment. The alternative embodiment shares many common features with the embodiment of Figures 1 to 4, therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 4 will be described in any greater detail.

The main panel 212 is adapted to accommodate twelve articles B arranged in a 3 x 4 matrix or array, the main panel 212 comprises a first marginal column of article retention structures RT1 , RT4 substantially similar in construction to those in Figure 1 and a second marginal column of article retention structures RT2, RT3 substantially similar in construction to those in Figure 1. The main panel 212 comprises an intermediate column of article retention structures RT5, RT6. The intermediate column comprises a fifth article retention structure RT5 and a plurality of sixth article retention structures RT6. The fifth article retention structure RT5 is substantially similar in construction to the second article retention structure RT2 of Figure 1 albeit the second tooth 44 has been replaced with an additional third tooth 40, the additional third tooth 40 is arranged back-to-back with a fifth tooth 46 of a second article retention structure RT2 in the second marginal column of article retention structures RT2, RT3. Similarly, the sixth article retention structure RT6 is substantially similar in construction to the third article retention structure RT3 of Figure 1 albeit the second tooth 44 has been replaced with an additional third tooth 40, the additional third tooth 40 is arranged back-to-back with a fifth tooth 46 of a third article retention structure RT3 in the second marginal column of article retention structures RT2, RT3. The sixth article retention structures RT6 comprise four engaging tabs 40, 46 which are arranged back-to-back with an engaging tooth 40, 46 in an adjacently disposed article retention structure RT1 , RT2, RT3, RT4, RT5, RT6. The aforementioned four engaging tabs 40, 46 are arranged in diametrically opposed pairs, a first pair being oriented orthogonally with respect to the second pair.

The blanks 10; 110 include at least a paperboard substrate. The material of the paperboard substrate may be selected from any conventional paperboard, for example, ranging in weight upwardly from about 10pt., preferably from about 16pt. to about 28pt. (0.0287~0.7mm). An example of such a substrate is a 27 point (pt.) SBS board (solid bleached sulphate paperboard coated on one side, trade name PrintKote®) or CNK® board (Coated Natural Kraft® -an unbleached kraft paperboard having a clay coating on one side, trade name CarrierKoteTM) manufactured by WestRock® Company. The paperboard substrate may be a bleached or unbleached board. The board may be coated on at least one side, optionally the side opposite the lamination, with a conventional coating selected for compatibility with the printing method and board composition.

The blanks 10; 110 may include a tear resistant layer laminated to the paperboard layer. It optionally includes an adhesive layer between the paperboard substrate and the tear resistant layer. The tear resistant layer may be disposed over the uncoated side of the paperboard substrate and may be formed of polymeric material and secured to the substrate. The tear resistant layer imparts toughness to the laminate structure. Suitable tear resistant materials may include, but not be limited to, tear resistant laminated sheet material, e.g., NATRALOCK®, which may include a layer of an n-axially oriented film, e.g. MYLAR®, which is a bi-axially oriented polyester, oriented nylon, cross-laminated polyolefin or high-density polyolefin. The orientation and cross-laminated structure of these materials contribute to the tear resistant characteristic. Also, tear resistance may be attributed to the chemical nature of the tear resistant material such as extruded metallocene-catalysed polyethylene (mPE).

Alternatively, the tear resistant layer may be a layer of linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE). In embodiments where linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) or mPE is used, it is not necessary to incorporate an adhesive layer. Other suitable materials having a high level of tear resistance may also be used. The adhesive layer may be formed of polyolefin material such as a low-density polyethylene (LDPE). The adhesive layer may be placed between the substrate and the tear resistant layer to secure the tear resistant layer to the substrate.

The present disclosure provides a carrier 90 for engaging at least one article B and a blank 10; 110 for forming the carrier 90. The article carrier 90 comprising an engaging panel 12; 112 including two or more article retention structures RT1 , RT2, RT3, RT4. Each article retention structure RT1 , RT2, RT3, RT4 comprises an article receiving opening defined in part by an aperture A1 , A2, A3, A4 and in part by a plurality of engaging tabs 40, 42, 44, 46, 48; 140, 142, 144, 146, 148 disposed about the aperture A1 , A2, A3, A4. A first article retention structure RT1 , RT2, RT3, RT4 comprises a first engaging tab 40; 140 and a second article retention structure RT1 , RT2, RT3, RT4 comprises a second engaging tab 46; 146. The second article retention RT 1 , RT2, RT3, RT4 structure is disposed adjacent to the first article retention structure RT1 , RT2, RT3, RT4. The first engaging tab 40; 140 is connected to the engaging panel via the second engaging tab 46; 146. The second engaging tab 46; 146 is connected directly to the engaging panel 12; 112 by at least one connecting element N1 , N2.

The first engaging tab 40; 140 comprises a first width dimension W1 and the second engaging tab 46; 146 comprises a second width dimension W2, the second width dimension W2 being greater than the first width dimension W1.

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 cutline, 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 cutline, an interrupted cutline, 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 An article carrier for engaging at least one article, the article carrier comprising an engaging panel including two or more article retention structures, each of the two or more article retention structures comprising an article receiving opening defined in part by an aperture and in part by a plurality of engaging tabs disposed about the aperture, wherein a first article retention structure of the two or more article retention structures comprises a first engaging tab and a second article retention structure of the two or more article retention structures comprises a second engaging tab, the second article retention structure being disposed adjacent to the first article retention structure, the first engaging tab being connected to the engaging panel via the second engaging tab, wherein the second engaging tab is connected directly to the engaging panel by at least one connecting element. An article carrier according to claim 1 , wherein the at least one connecting element comprises a pair of connecting elements connecting opposed marginal portions of the second engaging tab to the engaging panel. An article carrier according to claim 2, wherein the first engaging tab is connected to a medial portion of the second engaging tab by a hinged connection. An article carrier according to claim 1 , wherein the first engaging tab comprises a first width dimension and the second engaging tab comprises a second width dimension, the second width dimension being greater than the first width dimension. An article carrier according to claim 1 , wherein a third article retention structure of the two or more article retention structures is disposed adjacent to the second article retention structure, wherein the second article retention structure comprises a third engaging tab disposed generally orthogonally to the second engaging tab, and the third article retention structure comprises a fourth engaging tab wherein a first one of the third and fourth engaging tabs is connected directly to the engaging panel by at least one second connecting element and the other one of the third and fourth engaging tabs is connected to said first one of the third and fourth engaging tabs. An article carrier according to claim 5, wherein the at least one second connecting element comprises a pair of second connecting elements connecting opposed marginal portions of the said first one of the third and fourth engaging tabs to the engaging panel.

   - 23 - An article carrier according to claim 6, wherein the other one of the third and fourth engaging tabs is hingedly connected to a medial portion of said first one of the third and fourth engaging tabs. An article carrier according to claim 5, wherein the first one of the third and fourth engaging tabs comprises a third width dimension and the other one of the third and fourth engaging tabs comprises a fourth width dimension, the third width dimension being greater than the fourth width dimension. An article carrier according to claim 5, wherein a tooth free region is provided between the second engaging tab and the first one of the third and fourth engaging tabs. An article carrier according to claim 3, wherein the hinged connection comprises at least one linear fold line, wherein the first engaging tab comprises a first width dimension and the second engaging tab comprises a second width dimension, each of the first and second width dimensions extends parallel with the at least one linear fold line, and wherein the second width dimension is greater than the first width dimension. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising an engaging panel including two or more article retention structures, each of the two or more article retention structures comprising an article receiving opening defined in part by an aperture and in part by a plurality of engaging tabs disposed about the aperture, wherein a first article retention structure of the two or more article retention structures comprises a first engaging tab and a second article retention structure of the two or more article retention structures comprises a second engaging tab, the second article retention structure being disposed adjacent to the first article retention structure, the first engaging tab being connected to the engaging panel via the second engaging tab, wherein the second engaging tab is connected directly to the engaging panel by at least one connecting element. A blank according to claim 11 , wherein the at least one connecting element comprises a pair of connecting elements connecting opposed marginal portions of the second engaging tab to the engaging panel. A blank according to claim 12, wherein the first engaging tab is connected to a medial portion of the second engaging tab. A blank according to claim 11 , wherein the first engaging tab comprises a first width dimension and the second engaging tab comprises a second width dimension, the second width dimension being greater than the first width dimension. A blank according to claim 11 , wherein a third article retention structure of the two or more article retention structures is disposed adjacent to the second article retention structure, wherein the second article retention structure comprises a third engaging tab disposed generally orthogonally to the second engaging tab, and the third article retention structure comprises a fourth engaging tab wherein a first one of the third and fourth engaging tabs is connected directly to the engaging panel by at least one second connecting element, and the other one of the third and fourth engaging tabs is connected to the first one of the third and fourth engaging tabs. A blank according to claim 15, wherein the at least one second connecting element comprises a pair of second connecting elements connecting opposed marginal portions of the first one of the third and fourth engaging tabs to the engaging panel. A blank according to claim 16, wherein the other one of the third and fourth engaging tabs is hingedly connected to a medial portion of said first one of the third and fourth engaging tabs. A blank according to claim 15, wherein the first one of the third and fourth engaging tabs comprises a third width dimension and the other one of the third and fourth engaging tabs comprises a fourth width dimension, the third width dimension being greaterthan the fourth width dimension. A blank according to claim 15, wherein a tooth free region is provided between the second engaging tab and the first one of the third and fourth engaging tabs. A blank according to claim 14, wherein the first engaging tab is hingedly connected to the second engaging tab by at least one linear fold line, and wherein each of the first and second width dimensions extends parallel with the at least one linear fold line. A blank according to claim 11 , wherein the aperture of the second article retention structure has a center, and wherein the second engaging tab is disposed closer to the center of the aperture of the second article retention structure than at least one of the remainder of the plurality of engaging tabs of the second article retention structure.