CN115427315A - Carton and blank therefor - Google Patents

Abstract

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a carton for packaging a plurality of articles and a blank for forming a carrier. The carton includes a plurality of walls (12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24) defining an interior of the carton. The carton includes a handle flap (52) hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of walls (18) along a flap fold line (55). The handle flap (52) has a plurality of parallel fold lines (57 a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57 b) extending transversely to the flap fold line (55).

Description

Carton and blank therefor

Cross Reference to Related Applications

This application claims the benefit of U.S. provisional patent application No. 62/984,965, filed on 3, 4, 2020, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a carton and a blank for forming a carton. More particularly, but not exclusively, the invention relates to a wrap-around carrier having an improved handle structure.

Background

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

It is desirable to produce cartons from nestable blanks, which provides environmental and economic benefits, and may be beneficial to increase or maximize the number of carton blanks that may be obtained from paperboard or other sheet material having a standard or fixed width.

It is also desirable to be able to transport the carton in bags or sacks without tearing or otherwise compromising the integrity of the bag or damaging other items in the bag.

It is an object of the present disclosure to provide a handle structure for carrying a carton. It is desirable to provide a robust and strong handle and also to reduce the thickness or caliper of the material from which the carton is constructed.

The present invention seeks to provide improvements in the field of cartons generally formed from paperboard or the like.

Disclosure of Invention

A first aspect of the invention provides a carton for packaging one or more articles. The carton includes a plurality of walls defining an interior of the carton. The carton includes a handle flap hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of walls along a flap fold line. The handle flap has a plurality of parallel fold lines extending transverse to the flap fold line.

A second aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming a carton. The blank includes a plurality of panels for defining an interior chamber. The blank comprises a handle flap hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of panels along a flap fold line. The handle flap has a plurality of parallel fold lines extending transverse to the flap fold line.

Optionally, the plurality of parallel fold lines comprises three or more parallel fold lines.

Optionally, each of the plurality of parallel fold lines is disposed substantially perpendicular to the flap fold line.

Optionally, each of the plurality of parallel fold lines extends from the flap fold line towards the free edge of the handle flap.

Optionally, at least one of the plurality of parallel fold lines extends all the way to the free edge of the handle flap.

Optionally, the handle flap has a pair of opposing side edges, each of the pair of opposing side edges being parallel to the plurality of parallel fold lines.

Optionally, the at least one of the plurality of panels comprises a dispenser (dispenser) panel defined by a pair of tear lines, and wherein the handle flap is disposed between the pair of tear lines at a location spaced apart from the tear lines.

Optionally, the handle flap is disposed midway between the tear lines.

Optionally, the flap fold line is oriented such that an imaginary extension of the flap fold line intersects the pair of tear lines.

Optionally, an imaginary extension of the flap fold line is substantially perpendicular to a respective portion of the tear line with which the imaginary extension intersects.

Optionally, the handle flap defines a central axis extending substantially perpendicular to the flap fold line, and wherein the plurality of parallel fold lines are symmetrically disposed about the central axis.

Optionally, one of the plurality of parallel fold lines extends co-linearly with the central axis.

Optionally, the handle flap defines a central axis extending generally perpendicular to the flap fold lines, and wherein the plurality of parallel fold lines includes a first pair of fold lines disposed on opposite sides of the central axis at a location equidistant from the central axis, the first pair of fold lines being spaced apart from each other by a first distance.

Optionally, the plurality of parallel fold lines further comprises a second pair of fold lines disposed on opposite sides of the central axis at equidistant locations from the central axis, and wherein the second pair of fold lines are spaced apart from each other by a second distance that is greater than the first distance.

Optionally, the first pair of fold lines each have a length greater than each of the second pair of fold lines.

Optionally, the first pair of fold lines each extend from the flap fold line towards the free edge of the handle flap, and wherein each of the first fold lines stops short of the free edge.

Optionally, the plurality of parallel fold lines further comprises a central fold line extending co-linearly with the central axis.

Optionally, the central fold line extends from the flap fold line across the handle flap to the free edge.

Optionally, the central fold line has a length greater than each of the first fold lines.

Optionally, the flap fold line has a length no greater than the maximum width of the handle flap.

A third aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming a carton. The blank includes a handle flap and a plurality of panels for defining an interior chamber. A handle flap is hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of plates. The handle flap includes a proximal portion and a pair of distal portions. The proximal portion is hingedly connected to the at least one of the plurality of panels along a flap fold line. Each of the pair of distal portions is hingedly connected to the proximal portion along a respective one of a pair of distal portion fold lines. The handle flap includes a plurality of additional fold lines extending transverse to the flap fold line.

A fourth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming a carton. The blank includes a handle flap and a plurality of panels for defining an interior chamber. A handle flap is hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of plates. The handle flap includes a proximal portion and a pair of distal portions. The proximal portion is hingedly connected to the at least one of the plurality of panels along a flap fold line. Each of the pair of distal portions is hingedly connected to the proximal portion along a respective one of a pair of distal portion fold lines. Each of the distal portion fold lines extends substantially from a free edge of the handle flap. The pair of distal portion fold lines are arranged divergently with respect to each other so as to diverge toward the flap fold line. The handle flap has at least one further fold line extending substantially from the free edge towards the flap fold line.

A fifth aspect of the invention provides a package comprising a set of articles and a carton. Each container in the group of articles has a generally circular cross-section. The carton is disposed at least partially around an exterior of the group of articles. The carton includes a plurality of panels and a handle flap. A handle flap is hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of panels along a flap fold line. The handle flap includes a plurality of parallel fold lines extending transverse to the flap fold lines.

A sixth aspect of the invention provides a package comprising a set of containers and a carton. Each container of the set of containers has a substantially circular cross-section. The carton is disposed at least partially around an exterior of the set of containers. The carton includes a plurality of panels and a handle flap. A handle flap is hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of plates. The handle flap includes a proximal portion and a pair of distal portions. The proximal portion is hingedly connected to the at least one of the plurality of panels along a flap fold line. Each of the pair of distal portions is hingedly connected to the proximal portion along a respective one of a pair of distal portion fold lines. The handle flap has a plurality of additional fold lines extending transverse to the flap fold line.

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

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

Features or combinations of features of embodiments disclosed herein may be extracted in isolation from other features of the embodiments. Alternatively, a feature or a combination of features of an embodiment may be omitted from this embodiment.

Drawings

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

fig. 1 is a top plan view of a blank for forming a carton according to a first embodiment;

fig. 2 is a top perspective view of a carton formed from the blank of fig. 1;

FIG. 3 is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the blank of FIG. 1;

fig. 4 is a top plan view of a portion of a blank for forming a carton according to a second embodiment; and

fig. 5 is a top plan view of a portion of a blank for forming a carton according to a third embodiment.

Detailed Description

Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of packages, blanks, and cartons are disclosed herein. It is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the ways in which certain aspects of the invention may be practiced and do not represent an exhaustive list of all ways in which the invention may be embodied. As used herein, the word "exemplary" is used in a broad sense to refer to embodiments that are used as illustrations, specimens, models, or patterns. Indeed, it will be understood that the packages, blanks, and cartons described herein may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components. Well-known components, materials, or methods are not necessarily described in 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 present invention.

Referring to fig. 1, there is shown a plan view of a blank 10 capable of being formed into a carton or carrier 90, as shown in fig. 2, for containing and carrying a group of primary products, such as but not limited to beverage cans, hereinafter referred to as articles B, as shown in fig. 2. The blank 10 forms a secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package.

In the embodiments detailed herein, the terms "carton" and "carrier" refer to the container 90 for engaging and carrying an article B (such as a primary product container B) for non-limiting purposes of illustrating various features of the invention. It is contemplated that the teachings of the present invention may be applied to a variety of product containers B, which may or may not be tapered and/or cylindrical. Other exemplary containers include bottles (e.g., metal, glass, or plastic bottles), cans (e.g., aluminum cans), tints, cups, jars, bags, cartons, and the like.

The blank 10 is formed from a suitable substrate sheet. It will be understood that, as used herein, the term "suitable substrate" includes a wide variety of foldable sheet materials, such as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, and the like. It will be appreciated that one or other number of blanks may be employed where appropriate, for example to provide a carrier structure described in more detail below.

The packaging structure or carton 90 described herein can be formed from a sheet material (such as paperboard) that can be made from or coated with a variety of materials to increase its strength. An example of such sheet material is tear resistant NATRALOCK paperboard made by Westrock, inc. It should be noted that the tear resistant material 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 properties than the other surface. For example, the surface of the sheet material facing outwardly from the finished package may be particularly smooth and may have a coating (such as a clay coating or other surface treatment) to provide good printability. On the other hand, the inwardly facing surface of the sheet material may be provided with a coating, layer, treatment or otherwise prepared to provide properties such as one or more of tear resistance, good adhesion, heat sealability or other desired functional properties.

In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 10 is configured to form a carton or carrier 90 for packaging the exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles B. In the illustrated embodiment, the arrangement is an m × n matrix or array having two rows (m = 2) and three columns (n = 3); in the illustrated embodiment, two rows of three articles B are provided, and these articles B are 500 ml beverage cans. Alternatively, the blank 10 may be configured to form a carrier for packaging other types, numbers, and sizes of articles B and/or for packaging articles B in different arrangements or configurations, such as, but not limited to, fully enclosed cartons or basket carriers, which may be bottles or cans.

Turning to fig. 1, a blank 10 for forming a carton 90 (see fig. 2) according to a first embodiment is illustrated. The blank 10 includes a plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 for forming a tubular structure. The plurality of main boards 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 include: a first base panel 12, a first corner panel 14, a first side panel 16, a top panel 18, a second side panel 20, a second corner panel 22, and a second base panel 24. The plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 may be arranged to be hinged one after the other in a linear series (linear series) by respective fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23.

In an alternative embodiment, the first corner panel 14 and the second corner panel 22 may be omitted and the fold lines 15, 21 may be omitted.

The first corner panel 14 and the second corner panel 22 may be considered to form a lower portion of a respective one of the first side panel 16 or the second side panel 20, or alternatively to form a portion of the first base panel 12 or the second base panel 24 to which they are hingedly connected.

The blank 10 is foldable to form a package 90 as illustrated in fig. 2. The first and second base panels 12, 24 may be joined to one another in an overlapping relationship to form the composite base wall 12/24 of the carton 90. The blank 10 may include a complementary locking mechanism for securing the second base panel 24 to the first base panel 12. The second base plate 24 may include at least a first portion F of the complementary locking mechanism. First base panel 12 may include at least one second portion M of the complementary locking mechanism. In the illustrated embodiment, the second base panel 24 includes a plurality of female tabs F that define an opening in the second base panel 24. The first base panel 12 includes a plurality of male tabs M, and the openings in the second base panel 24 are configured to receive a respective one of the male tabs M. The female tab F is arranged to be displaced out of the second base panel 24 to form an opening and bear against the male tab M when the male tab M is received in the opening. In some embodiments, the complementary locking mechanism M/F may be omitted and the first and second base plates 12, 24 may be secured to one another by other means, such as, but not limited to, an adhesive or u-shaped staples.

Optionally, the first and second base plates 12, 24 may include at least one first aperture A1. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first and second base plates 12, 24 includes two first apertures A1. Optionally, the first and second base plates 12, 24 may include at least one second aperture A2. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first and second base plates 12, 24 includes one second aperture A2. The first aperture A1 and the second aperture A2 may be employed to facilitate the construction of the carton 90. The packaging machine components are engageable with the first aperture A1 and the second aperture A2 to enable the plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 to be tightened about a group of articles B. The first aperture A1 and the second aperture A2 may also be employed to facilitate alignment of the first base plate 12 and the second base plate 24 relative to each other or to align a first portion of a complementary locking mechanism with a second portion of a complementary locking mechanism. The complementary locking mechanism shown and described is entirely optional.

The blank 10 may include at least one heel engagement structure N for engaging a heel or a lower portion of an article B. The blank 10 illustrated in fig. 1 comprises six heel engagement structures N, each provided for engaging a respective article B. Each of the heel engagement structures N is substantially similar in construction and will be described with reference to the heel engagement structure N disposed in the first side panel 16.

The heel engagement structure N may include an opening. The opening is defined in part by the heel aperture A3 and in part by the heel tab 42. The heel tab 42 is hingedly connected to the first base panel by a fold line 43. The heel tab 42 is stamped from the first corner panel 14.

The fold line 43 interrupts the fold line 13 that hingedly connects the first base panel 12 to the first corner panel 14. The fold line 43 may be non-linear, in the illustrated embodiment the shape of the fold line 43 is curved or arcuate, in other embodiments it may be formed by at least two linear fold lines arranged divergently with respect to each other and connected to each other.

The heel tab 42 may include a pair of divergently disposed fold lines 45a, 45b that may define foldable corner portions of the heel tab 42.

The top plate 18 includes a handle structure H. The handle structure H includes at least one foldable tab 52. The illustrated embodiment includes a pair of foldable finger tabs 52.

The pair of finger tabs 52 are spaced apart from one another. Each finger tab 52 may be arranged to be disposed in alignment with a void or gap between a group of four adjacently disposed articles B within the carton 90.

Each finger tab 52 is hingedly connected to top panel 18 by a first fold line 55 and is defined in part by a cut or severance line 51. The shape of the cut line 51 may be substantially semicircular. The cut or severance line 51 includes opposing ends disposed proximate opposing ends of the first fold line 55. The end portions of the cut or split lines 51 may be arcuate or curvilinear. The curved end portion of the dividing line 51 is arranged continuous or continuous with the first folding line 55. The first fold line 55 includes a length dimension L1, wherein the length dimension L1 may be arranged to be substantially equal to or less than the maximum width dimension W1 of the tab 52. For example, the difference between the length dimension L1 and the width dimension W1 may be less than or equal to 3 mm, and may be about 2 mm in some embodiments.

Parting line 51 may include a pair of linear segments 51a, 51b (best shown in fig. 3) that at least partially define a maximum width dimension W1 of tab 52. The linear sections 51a, 51b may extend contiguously from each curved end portion proximate the first fold line 55. The pair of linear sections 51a, 51b may be coupled to each other by a curvilinear section arranged to form a continuous cut or split line 51 from opposite ends of the first fold line 55. In some embodiments, the curvilinear section may be arcuate, in other embodiments it may be a combination of linear and/or arcuate portions, for example it may include two or more linear portions arranged divergently with respect to each other, and an arcuate portion disposed therebetween.

The straight or linear segmentation line segments 51a, 51b are optional, but in some embodiments they may be provided to increase handle strength. The straight dividing line segments 51a, 51b may be replaced by other shapes or configurations of dividing line segments, such as curved or inclined dividing line segments extending convergently toward the first or flap fold line 55.

Each finger tab 52 includes a second fold line 61 extending across tab 52 from first fold line 55 to its opposite free edge along its height H1. The second fold line 61 may be perpendicular relative to the first fold line 55. The second fold line 61 may bisect the tab 52. The second fold line 61 may bisect the first fold line 55. In some embodiments, the second fold line 61 may extend from a location spaced apart from the first fold line 55 and/or may stop short of the opposing free edge E1. In some other embodiments, the second fold line 61 may be disposed transverse to and oblique relative to the first fold line 55. In embodiments where the second fold line 61 is oblique to the first fold line 55, the second fold line 61 may not bisect the tab 52 or may not bisect the first fold line 55.

Each finger tab 52 may include a pair of third fold lines 53a, 53b. The pair of third fold lines 53a, 53b are arranged divergently with respect to each other. The pair of third fold lines 53a, 53b converge to define an apex that may be disposed or located at the end of the second fold line 61 proximate the free edge of the tab 52. Each of the pair of third fold lines 53a, 53b extends to a respective one of the curved end portions of the dividing line 51. In this manner, the pair of third fold lines 53a, 53b define a "V" shaped fold line extending across the maximum width dimension W1 of the tab 52.

Each finger tab 52 may include an additional fold line extending from the first fold line 55. These further fold lines may extend towards the free edge of the finger tab 52 and/or towards one of the pair of third fold lines 53a, 53b.

In the illustrated embodiment, four fold lines 57a, 59a, 57b, 59b extend from the first fold line 55. Fold lines 57a, 59a, 57b, 59b extend partially across the finger tabs 52. The fold lines 57a, 59a, 57b, 59b extend partially between the first fold line 55 and a respective one of the pair of third fold lines 53a, 53b.

The folding lines 57a, 59a, 57b, 59b may be disposed on opposite sides of the second folding line 61 and may be arranged parallel to each other. The fold lines 57a, 59a, 57b, 59b may be arranged parallel to the second fold line 61.

Two fold lines 57a, 59a may be provided on a first side of the second fold line 61; two fold lines 57b, 59b may be provided on a second side of the second fold line 61.

The inner fold lines 59a, 59b disposed closer to the second fold line 61 may have a longer length dimension than the outer fold lines 57a, 57b.

A first one of the finger tabs 52 is hingedly connected to the top plate 18 opposite a second one of the finger tabs 52.

The handle structure arrangement may be used to distribute load forces through the load carrier 90. Finger tabs 52 may serve as mandrels to limit deformation of top plate 18 when under load.

The second and fold lines 61, 57a, 59a, 57b, 59b may direct the loading forces across or perpendicular to the grain or machine direction indicated by directional arrow GR in fig. 1.

In use, the top panel 18 may be deformed or folded in a direction substantially parallel to the tubular axis of the carton 90, that is, perpendicular to the grain or paper machine direction GR. This may increase the rigidity and/or strength of the carton 90.

The second fold line 61 and the fold lines 57a, 59a, 57b, 59b may have the following functions: in the regions of the top panel 18 near the end of the first fold line 55 and the opposite end of the dividing line 51, the load forces or stresses are reduced or the concentration of those forces or stresses is relieved.

The top panel 18 may include a detachable portion D in the form of a tear strip. Removable portion D is defined by a first tear or cut line 62a and a second tear or cut line 62 b. The first and second cut lines 62a, 62b extend generally longitudinally across the top panel 18. The second dividing line 62b is laterally spaced from the first dividing line 62 a. Tear initiation means in the form of tabs 60a, 60b may be provided at each end of the tear strip. The pull tabs 60a, 60b are hingedly connected to the tear strip by respective fold lines 63a, 63b and may be defined in part by lines of weakness which are more easily torn than the first and second lines of severance 62a, 62b, that is, which provide less tear resistance than the first and second lines of severance 62a, 62 b.

The detachable portion D may facilitate access to the contents (articles B) of the carton 90 when it is removed.

Each of the plates 12, 16, 18, 20, 24 is formed with a pair of cut-outs or recesses. These cut-outs are defined in opposite end edges of the blank 10. These resection ports include full, primary resection ports 70, 70a, 70c and partial or secondary resection ports 70b.

A first cutaway 70 is defined in the top panel 18 approximately midway along each of its opposite end edges. A second cutaway 70a is defined in each end edge of first side panel 16. A third cutaway 70c is defined in each end edge of the second side panel 20.

A partial or minor cut-out 70b is defined in each of the opposing end edges of each of the first and second base panels 12, 24.

As a result, the blank 10 is provided with four tabs 72, 72a, 72b, 72c along either longitudinal edge thereof, each tab being interposed between adjacent ones of the cut- outs 70, 70a, 70b, 70 c.

As illustrated in fig. 1, the first upper tab 72 is sandwiched and defined by the adjacently disposed first and third cut- outs 70, 70 c. The second upper tab 72a is sandwiched and defined by the first cutout 70 and the second cutout 70 a. The first lower tab 72b is sandwiched and defined by a first one of the second cutout 70a and the partial cutout 70b that is defined in the first base plate 12. The second lower tab 72c is sandwiched and defined by the third cut-out 70c and a second one of the partial cut-outs 70b that is defined in the second base panel 24.

The first upper tab 72 is positioned across the adjacent fold line 19. The second upper tab 72a is positioned across the adjacent fold line 17.

The first lower tab 72b is positioned across the adjacent fold lines 13, 15. The second lower tab 72c is positioned across the adjacent fold lines 21, 23.

The full or primary cut- out 70, 70a, 70c can accommodate an appropriately sized one of the tabs 72, 72a, 72c of a similar or similar adjacently disposed blank.

Each of the partial or minor cut-outs 70b cooperates with a partial or minor cut-out 70b of a subsequent or preceding second blank (not shown) disposed end-to-end with the blank 10 illustrated in fig. 1 to provide a void or cut-out capable of receiving an appropriately sized tab 72, 72a, 72b, 72c of an adjacent third blank (not shown) disposed side-by-side with the blank 10 of fig. 1 (optionally, at least a portion of the longitudinal edges of the blank 10 may be shared or common with at least a portion of the longitudinal edges of the third blank). A first partial cut-out 70b from the first blank 10 and a second partial cut-out 70b from the second blank are required to accommodate the single tab 72, 72a, 72b, 72c of the third blank. In this manner, the two partial resection openings 70b can be considered to form a complete resection opening.

Each of the first and second upper tabs 72, 72a form or assist in forming an end retention structure for preventing the contents of the carton 90 from being dislodged from the carton 90 when the blank 10 is erected into the carton 90. Each of the first and second upper tabs 72, 72a may be provided with a cut line and a fold line to form a top engaging structure when it is folded along the fold line.

More specifically, each upper tab 72, 72a may include an anchor portion 26a, 26b, 36a, 36b hingedly connected to the adjacent side panel 16, 20 along a fold line 25a, 35b, 39a, 39 b. Each upper tab 72, 72a may include a gusset portion 28a, 28b, 34a, 34b hingedly connected to the anchor portion 26a, 26b, 36a, 36b along fold line 27a, 27b, 37a, 37 b.

Each upper tab 72, 72a may include a web portion 30a, 30b, 32a, 32b hingedly connected to a gusset portion 28a, 28b, 34a, 34b along an extension 29a, 29b, 35a, 35b of a respective one of the fold lines 17, 19. Each upper tab 72, 72a may include a cover portion 80a, 80b, 82a, 82b integrally formed with the top plate 18. Each web portion 30a, 30b, 32a, 32b is hingedly connected to a respective cover portion 80a, 80b, 82a, 82b by fold lines 31a, 31b, 33a, 33 b.

Optional apertures A4 may be struck in part from the top panel 18, in part from the first or second side panels 16, 20, and in part from the upper tabs 72, 72 a. The aperture A4 defines fold lines 17, 19;29a, 29b, 35a, 35b;31a, 31b, 33a, 33b;27a, 27b, 37a, 37b;25a, 35b, 39a, 39b, and is disposed at the apex of the above-mentioned fold line.

The folding of each upper tab 72, 72a is effected during erection of the carton. To form the top engaging structure from each upper tab 72, 72a, the anchor portions 26a, 26b, 36a, 36b are folded approximately 180 degrees into face contacting relationship with the inner surface of the adjacent side panel 16, 20. The anchor portions 26a, 26B, 36a, 36B are held in the folded position by one of the packaged articles B pressing against the adjacent side panel 16, 20. The folding of the anchor portions 26a, 26B, 36a, 36B causes the gusset portions 28a, 28B, 34a, 34B to fold outwardly about the fold lines 27a, 27B, 37a, 37B such that the gusset portions 28a, 28B, 34a, 34B extend outwardly from the fold lines 27a, 27B, 37a, 37B along the side walls of the one packaged article B. At the same time, the web portions 30a, 30b, 32a, 32b are caused to fold down along fold lines 31a, 31b, 33a, 33b and thereby to be brought into a folded position in which it extends between the fold lines 31a, 31b, 33a, 33b and the outer edges of the gusset portions 28a, 28b, 34a, 34b. The completed top-engaging structure is thus illustrated in fig. 2, where the structure is shown tightly engaging the top of the one article B.

Each lower tab 72b, 72c may be used to provide sufficient material to define an adjacent, extreme heel aperture A3 therein. More particularly, the heel aperture A3 adjacent each lower tab 72b, 72c is positioned such that there is sufficient material surrounding the heel aperture A3 even when the heel aperture A3 extends into that lower tab 72b, 72c. During erection and packaging of the articles B, the blank 10 is manipulated so that each heel aperture A3 receives the bottom of a respective article B to retain the article B within the carton 90. The heel tab 42 is also folded to help retain the article B.

Each lower tab 72b, 72c can include a deformable structure G that forms a foldable corner region of the carton 90. The deformable structure G takes the form of an arrangement of fold lines and is adapted to remove sharp corners or edges of the carton 90. This may be advantageous when the carton 90 is transported or carried in a carrier bag, particularly, but not exclusively, a carrier bag formed of plastic, paper, or similar sheet material. The deformable structure G prevents or reduces the likelihood of the carton 90 perforating, tearing, or otherwise piercing the material forming the carrier bag. It will be appreciated that any puncture in the carrier bag will compromise the load bearing capability of the carrier bag and once compromised, the tear is likely to propagate, which may cause the carton 90 or other article disposed in the carrier bag to come out and thus may cause damage thereto.

Each deformable structure G is substantially similar in construction and will be described with reference to the deformable structure G disposed in one of the second lower tabs 72c shown in fig. 1. The second lower tab 72c is formed in part by the second side panel 20, in part by the optional second corner panel 22, and in part by the second base panel 24.

The deformable structure G may include a release tab 88 formed in part by the second side panel 20 and in part by the second corner panel 22. In embodiments in which either the first corner panel 14 or the second corner panel 22 is omitted, the release tab 88 may be formed in part by the second side panel 20 and in part by the second base panel 24.

The release tab 88 is defined in part by the first fold line 87 provided in the second side panel 20 and in part by the second fold line 91 provided in the second corner panel 22.

The first fold line 87 is divergently arranged with respect to the second fold line 91. The first fold line 87 and the second fold line 91 diverge towards the longitudinal or free side edges of the blank 10. The first fold line 87 and the second fold line 91 include a first end portion disposed proximate to each other and a second end portion disposed distal to each other.

The release tab 88 is defined in part by a cut line or severable line 93. The cut line 93 may extend from a first end of the first fold line 87 toward a first end of the second fold line 91. The cut line 93 may extend substantially between the first, proximal end of the first fold line 87 and the first, proximal end of the second fold line 91. A cut line 93 may connect a first end of the first fold line 87 with a first end of the second fold line 91 for connection thereto. The cut line 93 may be disposed substantially parallel to an adjacent portion of the longitudinal or free side edge of the second lower tab 72c. The release tab 88 may be substantially trapezoidal in shape.

An extension or portion of the fold line 21 defines a third fold line 89 that substantially bisects the release tab 88. In other embodiments, the third fold line 89 may be off-center such that the release tab 88 is asymmetric with respect to the third fold line 89.

The release tab 88 may include a first cut-out or recess R1 struck from a longitudinal or free side edge thereof. In the embodiment of fig. 1, the recess R1 is substantially triangular so as to define a "V" shaped free edge. The recess R1 interrupts the third fold line 89. The third fold line 89 terminates at the apex of the "V" shape. The recess R1 removes material across the third fold line 89 to reduce the protrusion (contribution) of the third fold line 89 proximate the free edge of the second lower tab 72c. The recess R1 provides a trimmed edge of the third fold line 89.

The release tab 88 is disposed between the longitudinal or free side edge of the second lower tab 72c and the adjacent endmost heel aperture A3.

The deformable structure G may comprise a web structure comprising a pair of flaps 84, 86. The first flap 84 is hinged to the second side panel 20 by a fourth fold line 83. The fourth fold line 83 may be collinear with the longitudinal free edge of the third primary resection port 70 c. The second flap 86 is hingedly connected to the first flap 84 by a fifth fold line 85. The fifth fold line 83 is arranged divergently with respect to the fourth fold line 83. The first lobe 84 is substantially triangular in shape. The second flap 86 is hingedly connected to the release tab 88 by a first fold line 87. The fifth fold line 83 is arranged divergently with respect to the first fold line 87. The second lobe 86 is substantially triangular in shape.

The first and second flaps 84, 86 interconnect the release tab 88 to the second side panel 20.

The deformable structure G enables the portion of the second lower tab 72c provided by the second side panel 20 (and, when provided, the optional second corner panel 22) to be folded or deformed about the end of the endmost adjacent article B so as to bring the free edge of the portion of the second lower tab 72c into closer proximity to the endmost article B. It reduces the rigidity of the outer region of the portion of the second lower tab 72c, so that it is easily deformed. In this manner, the likelihood of the second lower tab 72c piercing the wall of the carrier bag when disposed inside during loading or carrying of the carrier bag is reduced. This may reduce the need to place a first carrier bag inside a second carrier bag to create a double-walled "double-bagging".

The deformable structure G may include a second cut-out or recess R2 stamped from a longitudinal or free side edge thereof. In the embodiment of fig. 1, the second recess R2 is substantially triangular so as to define a "V" shaped free edge portion. The second recess R2 interrupts the folding line 23 that couples the second base panel 24 to the second corner panel 22. The fold line 23 terminates at the apex of the "V" shape. The second recess R2 removes material across the fold line 23 so as to reduce the protrusion of the fold line 23 proximate the free edge of the second lower tab 72c. The second recess R2 provides a tailored edge of the fold line 23.

Turning to the erection of the carton 90 as illustrated in fig. 2, the carton 90 may be formed by a series of sequential folding operations in a straight line machine so that there is no need to rotate or invert the carton 90 to complete its erection. The folding process is not limited to that described below and may be modified according to particular manufacturing requirements.

Assembling a group of articles B; in the embodiment illustrated in fig. 2, six articles B are arranged in a2 x 3 array. The top panel 18 of the blank 10 is disposed over the group of articles B to provide the top wall 18 of the carton 90.

The first side panel 16 and the second side panel 20 are folded about opposite sides of the group B of articles about fold lines 17, 19, respectively, relative to the top panel 18 so as to be disposed about opposite sides of the group B of articles, thereby forming the first side wall 16 and the second side wall 20 of the carton 90.

Substantially simultaneously with folding the first and second side panels 16, 20 relative to the top panel 18, the anchor portions 26a, 26b, 36a, 36 may be folded into face contacting relationship with a respective one of the first and second side panels 16, 20 to form the top engaging structure described above.

Alternatively, the top engagement structure may be formed after erecting the carton 90 into a tubular form. The anchor portions 26a, 26B, 36a, 36 may be gathered between the adjacently disposed articles B and the respective one of the first and second side panels 16, 20 to which they are hingedly connected.

The first and second corner panels 14, 22 are folded about the adjacently disposed heel or lower portion of the article B about fold lines 15, 21, respectively, relative to the respective one of the first and second side panels 16, 20.

Before folding the first corner panel 14 and the second corner panel 22 relative to the respective one of the first side panel 16 and the second side panel 20, the heel tab 42 may be folded out of the plane of the first corner panel 14 and the second corner panel 22 about the fold line 43.

Folding the first base panel 12 about fold line 13 so as to be disposed adjacent the base of the group of articles B, and then folding the second base panel 24 about fold line 23 so as to be in at least partially overlying relationship with the first base panel 12; in doing so, each of the heel tabs 42 may be engaged with the base of a respective article B.

The first base plate 12 and the second base plate 24 are fixed together. Each of the male tabs M is displaced inwardly out of the plane of the second base panel 24. In doing so, each of the female tabs F is displaced inwardly, creating a corresponding opening in the first base panel 12. The male tabs M are received in respective ones of the openings to lock the first and second base panels 12, 24 together. In this way, a tubular structure is formed around the group of articles B.

An assembled carton 90 is shown in fig. 2. The handle structure H is disposed between the first tear line 62a and the second tear line 62 b. The tab 52 is shown in an initial or undeployed state.

Referring now to fig. 4 and 5, additional embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. In the second and third illustrated embodiments, like numerals have been used, where possible, to designate like parts, with the exception of the prefixes "100", "200" being added to indicate that the features belong to the second and third embodiments, respectively. These additional embodiments share many common features with the first embodiment and therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in fig. 1 to 3 will be described in detail.

Referring to fig. 4, a portion of a blank 110 for forming a carton (not shown) according to a second embodiment is illustrated. The blank 110 includes panels 118 for forming a handle panel. The handle plate 118 includes a handle structure H. Handle structure H includes at least one foldable tab 152.

Tab 152 is hingedly connected to handle panel 118 by a first or flap fold line 155 and is defined in part by a cut or split line 151. The shape of the cut line 151 may be substantially semicircular. The cut or split lines 151 include opposing ends disposed proximate opposing ends of the first fold line 155. The end portions of the cut or split lines 151 may be arcuate or curvilinear. The curved end portion of the dividing line 151 is arranged to be continuous or continuous with the first folding line 155. The first fold line 155 includes a length dimension L1, which length dimension L1 may be arranged to be substantially equal to or less than the maximum width dimension W1 of the tab 152. For example, the difference between the length dimension L1 and the width dimension W1 may be less than or equal to 3 mm, and may be about 2 mm in some embodiments.

Optionally, split line 151 may include a pair of linear sections 151a, 151b that at least partially define a maximum width dimension W1 of tab 152. Optional linear sections 151a, 151b may extend contiguously from each curved end portion proximate the first fold line 155. The pair of linear sections 151a, 151b may be coupled to each other by curvilinear sections arranged to form a continuous cut or split line 151 from opposite ends of the first fold line 155. The straight line segment segments 151a, 151b may be replaced by segment segments of other shapes or configurations.

In some embodiments, the curvilinear section may be arcuate, in other embodiments it may be a combination of linear and/or arcuate portions, for example it may comprise two or more linear portions arranged divergently with respect to each other, and an arcuate portion disposed therebetween.

The tab 152 includes a second or central fold line 161 that extends from the free edge E1 of the tab 152 (the free edge E1 of the tab 152 is opposite the hinged edge defined by the first fold line 155) across the first fold line 155, and optionally extends across the first fold line 155 to terminate at a location beyond the first fold line 155. In some embodiments, second fold line 161 terminates in handle panel 118 at a location that is external to tab 152. In some embodiments, second fold line 161 terminates at or on first fold line 155. In still other embodiments, the second fold line 161 terminates before the first fold line 155 such that the terminal portion is located within the tab 152, that is, the terminal portion is spaced apart from the first fold line 155.

The second fold line 161 may be perpendicular with respect to the first fold line 155. Second fold line 161 may bisect tab 152. The second fold line 161 may bisect the first fold line 155.

Tab 152 may include a pair of third fold lines 153a, 153b. The pair of third fold lines 153a, 153b are arranged divergently with respect to each other. The pair of third fold lines 153a, 153b converge to define an apex that may be disposed at or located at the end of the second fold line 161 proximate the free edge E1 of the tab 152. Each of the pair of third fold lines 153a, 153b extends to a respective one of the curved end portions of the split line 151. In this manner, the pair of third fold lines 153a, 153b define a "V" shaped fold line extending across the maximum width dimension W1 of the tab 152.

Tab 152 may include additional fold lines extending across first fold line 155. These additional fold lines may extend from a location outside of tab 152. Tab 152 is bounded by first fold line 155 and split line 151. These additional fold lines may extend towards the free edge E1 of the tab 152 and/or towards one of the pair of third fold lines 153a, 153b. In other embodiments, any of these additional fold lines may include an end portion on the first fold line 155. In still other embodiments, both terminal ends of any of these additional fold lines may be located within the boundaries of the tab 152 and may be spaced apart therefrom. Optionally, the arrangement of these further fold lines is symmetrical (mirror symmetrical) about the central fold line 161.

In the illustrated embodiment, six fold lines 157a, 159a, 165a, 157b, 159b, 165b extend across the first fold line 155. Fold lines 157a, 159a, 165a, 157b, 159b, 165b extend partially across tab 152. Fold lines 157a, 159a, 165a, 157b, 159b, 165b extend from a first end located outside tab 152 to a second end disposed within the boundaries of tab 152. The second end portion may be spaced apart from a respective one of the pair of third fold lines 153a, 153b.

The fold lines 157a, 159a, 165a, 157b, 159b, 165b may be disposed on opposite sides of the second fold line 161 and may be arranged parallel to each other. The fold lines 157a, 159a, 165a, 157b, 159b, 165b may be arranged parallel to the second fold line 161.

Three fold lines 157a, 159a, 165a may be disposed on a first side of the second fold line 161; three fold lines 157b, 159b, 165b may be disposed on a second side of the second fold line 161.

The inner fold lines 165a, 165b disposed closest to the second fold line 161 may have a longer length dimension than the outer fold lines 157a, 157b and/or the intermediate fold lines 159a, 159b. The medial fold lines 159a, 159b may have a longer length dimension than the lateral fold lines 157a, 157b.

The handle structure arrangement may be used to distribute load forces through the load carrier.

Referring to fig. 5, a portion of a blank 210 for forming a carton (not shown) according to a third embodiment is illustrated. The blank 210 includes panels 218 for forming a handle panel. The handle plate 218 includes a handle structure H. The handle structure H includes at least one foldable tab 252.

Tab 252 is hingedly connected to handle panel 218 by a first or flap fold line 255 and is defined in part by a cut or split line 251. Tab 252 is bounded by a first fold line 255 and a parting line 251. The shape of the cutting line 251 may be substantially semicircular. The cut or split line 251 includes opposing ends disposed proximate opposing ends of the first fold line 255. The end portions of the cut or split lines 251 may be arcuate or curvilinear. The curved end portion of the dividing line 251 is arranged continuous or continuous with the first folding line 255. The first fold line 255 includes a length dimension L1, and the length dimension L1 may be arranged to be substantially equal to or less than the maximum width dimension W1 of the tab 252. For example, the difference between the length dimension L1 and the width dimension W1 may be less than or equal to 3 mm, and may be about 2 mm in some embodiments.

Optionally, parting line 251 may include a pair of linear segments 251a, 251b that at least partially define a maximum width dimension W1 of tab 252. Optional linear segments 251a, 251b may extend contiguously from each curved end portion proximate to the first fold line 255. The pair of linear sections 251a, 251b may be coupled to each other by curved sections arranged to form a continuous cut or split line 251 from opposite ends of the first fold line 255. The straight segment segments 251a, 251b may be replaced by segment segments of other shapes or configurations.

In some embodiments, the curvilinear section may be arcuate, in other embodiments it may be a combination of linear and arcuate portions, for example it may comprise two or more linear portions arranged divergently with respect to each other, and an arcuate portion disposed therebetween.

The tab 252 includes a second or central fold line 261 extending from a location spaced from the free edge E1 of the tab 252, the free edge E1 being opposite the hinged edge defined by the first fold line 255. The second fold line 261 may extend across the tab 252 along the height H1 of the tab 252. The second fold line 261 terminates at a location on the first fold line 255. In some embodiments, the second fold line 261 may extend beyond the first fold line 255 and may terminate in the handle panel 218 at a location that is external to the tab 252. In still other embodiments, the second fold line 261 may terminate before the first fold line 255 such that the proximal terminal portion is located within the tab 252, that is, the proximal terminal portion is spaced apart from the first fold line 255. The distal terminal portion may be located at the free edge E1.

The second fold line 261 may be perpendicular with respect to the first fold line 255. The second fold line 261 may bisect the tab 252. The second folding line 261 may bisect the first folding line 255.

Tab 252 may include a pair of third fold lines 253a, 253b. The pair of third fold lines 253a, 253b are arranged divergently with respect to each other. The pair of third fold lines 253a, 253b converge to define an apex that may be disposed or located at an end of the second fold line 261 proximate to the free edge E1 of the tab 252. Each of the pair of third fold lines 253a, 253b extends to a respective one of the curved end portions of the dividing line 251. In this manner, the pair of third fold lines 253a, 253b define a "V" shaped fold line extending across the maximum width dimension W1 of the tab 252.

The tab 252 may include additional fold lines extending from the first fold line 255 or across the first fold line 255. These additional fold lines may extend toward the free edge E1 of the tab 252 and/or toward one of the pair of third fold lines 253a, 253b. In the embodiment shown in fig. 5, each of these further fold lines comprises a terminal portion located on the first fold line 255. In still other embodiments, the proximal terminal portion of any of these additional fold lines may be located outside or inside the boundaries of the tab 252 and may be spaced apart from the first fold line 255. Optionally, the arrangement of these further fold lines is symmetrical (mirror symmetrical) about the central fold line 261.

In the illustrated embodiment, four fold lines 257a, 259a, 257b, 259b are disposed within the tab 252. Fold lines 257a, 259a, 257b, 259b extend partially across tab 252. Fold lines 257a, 259a, 257b, 259b extend from their respective proximal ends (located on first fold line 255) to second distal ends. The distal end may be spaced apart from a respective one of the pair of third fold lines 253a, 253b.

In the illustrated embodiment, these additional fold lines 257a, 259a, 257b, 259b are linear. In other embodiments, the additional fold lines 257a, 259a, 257b, 259b may be non-linear or curved.

In the illustrated embodiment, the additional fold lines 257a, 259a, 257b, 259b are oriented obliquely with respect to the central fold line 261.

In the illustrated embodiment, the additional fold lines 257a, 259a, 257b, 259b are oriented obliquely with respect to the first fold line 255.

Fold lines 257a, 259a, 257b, 259b may be disposed on opposite sides of the second fold line 261. The fold lines 257a, 259a, 257b, 259b are arranged divergently with respect to the second fold line 261.

Two fold lines 257a, 259a may be disposed on a first side of the second fold line 261; two fold lines 257b, 259b may be disposed on a second side of the second fold line 261.

The inner fold lines 259a, 259b disposed in closest proximity to the second fold line 261 are divergently arranged with respect to each other and may have a longer dimension than the outer fold lines 257a, 257b. The outer fold lines 257a, 257b are arranged divergently with respect to each other.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first inner fold line 259a is disposed substantially parallel to the first outer fold line 257a. In other embodiments, the first inner fold line 259a and the first outer fold line 257a may be non-parallel.

In the illustrated embodiment, the second inner fold line 259b is disposed substantially parallel to the second outer fold line 257b. In other embodiments, the second inner fold line 259b and the second outer fold line 257b may be non-parallel.

The present disclosure provides a carton blank 10;110;210 including a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 for defining an interior of the carton 90; 118;218. and along flap fold line 55;155;255 hingedly connected to the plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24;118; 218; 118;218, handle flap 52;152;252, wherein the handle flaps 52;152;252 have flap fold lines 55 transverse thereto; 155. 255 extending a plurality of parallel fold lines 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b;157a, 159a, 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b;257a, 259b, 257b.

The plurality of parallel fold lines 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b;157a, 159a, 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b;257a, 259b, 257b may include three or more parallel fold lines 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b;157a, 159a, 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b.

Said plurality of parallel fold lines 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b;157a, 159a, 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b may be substantially perpendicular to the flap fold line 55;155 are provided.

The plurality of parallel fold lines 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b;157a, 159a, 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b;257a, 259b, 257b extend from flap fold line 55;155;255 towards the handle flap 52;152;252 extends from the free edge E1.

Said plurality of parallel fold lines 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b;157a, 159a, 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b; at least one fold line 61 in 257a, 259b, 257 b; 161;261 extend all the way to the free edge E1.

A handle flap 52;152;252 may have a pair of opposing side edges 51a, 51b;151a, 151b;251a, 251b, parallel to said plurality of parallel fold lines 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b;157a, 159a, 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b;257a, 259b, 257b.

The at least one 18 of the plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 includes a dispenser panel D defined by a pair of tear lines 62a, 62b, and wherein the handle flap 52 is disposed between the pair of tear lines 62a, 62b at a location spaced apart from the tear lines 62a, 62 b. In normal use, the at least one 18 of the plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 may be a top panel 18.

The handle flap 52 may be disposed midway between the tear lines 62a, 62 b.

The flap fold line 55 may be disposed in an orientation such that an imaginary extension x-x' of the flap fold line 55 intersects the pair of tear lines 62a, 62 b.

The imaginary extension x-x 'of flap fold line 55 is generally perpendicular to the respective portions of tear lines 62a, 62b with which the imaginary extension x-x' intersects.

A handle flap 52;152;252 define a flap fold line 55 that is generally perpendicular; 155;255 extending a central axis y-y'. The plurality of parallel fold lines 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b;157a, 159a, 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b;257a, 259b, 257b may be symmetrically disposed about the central axis y-y'. The plurality of parallel fold lines 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b;157a, 159a, 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b;257a, 259b, 257b may include a first pair of fold lines 59a, 59b;165a, 165b disposed on opposite sides of the central axis y-y 'at positions equidistant from the central axis y-y', and wherein the first pair of fold lines 59a, 59b;165a, 165b are disposed at a first distance D1 from each other.

The plurality of parallel fold lines 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b;157a, 159a, 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b; one fold line 61 in 257a, 259b, 257 b; 161 extend co-linearly with the central axis y-y'.

The plurality of parallel fold lines 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b;157a, 159a, 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b;257a, 259b, 257b may further comprise a second pair of fold lines 57a, 57b;159a, 159b arranged on opposite sides of the central axis y-y 'at positions equidistant from the central axis y-y', and wherein the second fold lines 57a, 57b;159a, 159b are disposed at a second distance D2 from each other, and wherein the second distance D2 is greater than the first distance D1.

The plurality of parallel fold lines 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b;157a, 159a, 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b;257a, 259b, 257b may further comprise a third pair of fold lines 157a, 157b disposed on opposite sides of the central axis y-y 'at locations equidistant from the central axis y-y', and wherein the third fold lines 157a, 157b are disposed at a third distance D3 from each other, and wherein the third distance D3 is greater than the second distance D2.

The first pair of fold lines 59a, 59b;165a, 165b;259a, 259b are each longer than the second pair of fold lines 57a, 57b;159a, 159b;257a, 257b.

The first pair of fold lines 59a, 59b;259a, 259b are each offset from flap fold line 55;255 towards the handle flap 52;252 and wherein the first pair of fold lines 59a, 59b;259a, 259b stop short of the free edge E1.

The handle structure H further comprises a central fold line 61 extending co-linearly with the central axis y-y'; 161;261.

a central fold line 61;161;261 at least from the flap fold line 55;155;255 extend all the way to the free edge E1.

A central fold line 61;161;261 are longer than the first pair of fold lines 59a, 59b;165a, 165b;259a, 259 b.

Flap fold lines 55;155;255 has a length L1 no greater than the handle flap 52;152;252, W1.

The present disclosure also provides a carton 90 for packaging articles B. The carton 90 is formed from a blank 10 that is nestable with identical blanks that each form the carton 90.

The present disclosure provides a blank 10 for forming a carton 90; 110;210 comprising a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 for defining an interior chamber; 118;218 and at least one of the plurality of panels 18 hingedly connected thereto; 118;218, handle flap 52;152;252. a handle flap 52;152;252 includes a proximal portion 66;166, a water-soluble polymer; 266 along flap fold line 55;155;255 hingedly connected to the at least one of the plurality of panels 18;118;218. a handle flap 52;152;252 includes a pair of distal portions 67, 68; 167. 168; 267. 268 along a pair of distal portion fold lines 53a, 53b, respectively; 153a, 153b;253a, 253b are hingedly connected to the proximal portion 66;166;266. a handle flap 52;152;252 have flap fold lines 55 transverse thereto; 155;255 extending a plurality of further fold lines 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b;157a, 159a, 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b;257a, 259a, 261, 259b, 257b.

The present disclosure further provides a blank 10 for forming a carton 90; 110;210 comprising a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 for defining an interior chamber; 118;218 and at least one of the plurality of panels 18 hingedly connected thereto; 118;218 handle flap 52;152;252. a handle flap 52;152;252 includes a proximal portion 66;166, a water-soluble polymer; 266 along the flap fold line 55;155;255 hingedly connected to the at least one of the plurality of panels 18;118;218. a handle flap 52;152;252 includes a pair of distal portions 67, 68; 167. 168; 267. 268 along a pair of distal portion fold lines 53a, 53b, respectively; 153a, 153b;253a, 253b are hingedly connected to the proximal portion 66;166, a water-soluble polymer; 266. distal portion fold lines 53a, 53b;153a, 153b;253a, 253b are substantially free from handle flaps 52;152;252 toward flap fold line 55;155;255 extend divergently. A handle flap 52;152;252 have a flap fold line 55 substantially from the free edge E1; 155;255 at least one further fold line 61 extending; 161;261.

the present disclosure also provides a package, comprising: a set of articles or containers "B", each having a substantially circular cross-section; and a carton 90 disposed at least partially around the exterior of the set of containers B. The carton 90 includes a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24;118;218 and handle flap 52;152;252. a handle flap 52;152;252 along flap fold line 55;155;255 hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of panels 18;118;218. a handle flap 52;152;252 have flap fold lines 55 transverse thereto; 155;255 extending parallel fold lines 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b;157a, 159a, 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b;257a, 259a, 261, 259b, 257b.

The present disclosure also provides a package, comprising: a set of containers "B", each having a substantially circular cross-section; and a carton 90 disposed at least partially around an exterior of the set of containers B. The carton 90 includes a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24;118;218 and handle flap 52;152;252. a handle flap 52;152;252 are hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of panels 18;118;218. a handle flap 52;152;252 includes a proximal portion 66;166, a water-soluble polymer; 266 along the flap fold line 55;155;255 hingedly connected to the at least one of the plurality of panels 18;118;218. a handle flap 52;152;252 includes a pair of distal portions 67, 68; 167. 168; 267. 268 along a pair of distal portion fold lines 53a, 53b, respectively; 153a, 153b;253a, 253b are hingedly connected to the proximal portion 66;166;266. a handle flap 52;152;252 have flap fold lines 55 transverse thereto; 155;255 extending a plurality of further fold lines 57a, 59a, 61, 59b, 57b;157a, 159a, 165a, 161, 165b, 159b, 157b;257a, 259a, 261, 259b, 257b.

The blank 10 may include longitudinal edges having a plurality of recesses defining tabs therebetween. These recesses may be arranged to allow nesting of the blank 10 with a similar blank 10. The tabs provide upper and lower corner portions of the carton 90. The lower corner portions may include deformable, foldable, structures G that enable the lower corner portions to deform or fold to reduce the sharpness of the lower corner portions of the carton 90. The deformable, folded, structure G enables the lower corner portions to easily fold into an essentially rounded shape when a load force is applied thereto.

It will be appreciated that various changes can be made within the scope of the invention. For example, the size and shape of the plate and aperture may be adjusted to accommodate articles of different sizes or shapes.

It will be appreciated 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 the panels from one another.

As used herein, the terms "hinge connection" and "fold line" refer to a variety of lines that define hinge features of the blank, facilitate folding of portions of the blank relative to one another, or otherwise indicate an optimal panel folding position of the blank. Any reference to "a hinged connection" should not be construed as necessarily referring to only a single fold line; in practice, the hinged connection may be formed by two or more fold lines, wherein each of the two or more fold lines may be straight/linear or curved/curvilinear in shape. When the linear fold lines form a hinged connection, they may be arranged parallel to each other or at a slight angle with respect to each other. When the curvilinear fold lines form a hinged connection, they may intersect one another to define a shaped panel in the area enclosed by these curvilinear fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may comprise a pair of arcuate or bow-shaped fold lines which intersect at two points such that they define an elliptical panel therebetween. The hinge connection may be formed by one or more linear fold lines and one or more curved fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may comprise a combination of linear fold lines and arcuate or arched fold lines which intersect at two points such that they define a half-moon panel therebetween.

As used herein, the term "polyline" may refer to one of: a score line, a raised line, a recessed line, a row of perforations, a row of short slits, a row of half cuts, a single half cut, an interrupted cut line, a row of aligned slits, a row of scores, and any combination of the above.

It will be understood that the hinge connection and fold line may each comprise an element formed in the base panel of the blank, including a perforation, 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, a slit, a score, any combination thereof, and the like. These elements may be sized and arranged to provide the desired functionality. For example, a row of perforations may be sized or designed with a weakness to define a fold line and/or a cut line. The row of perforations may be designed to facilitate folding and resist breaking, to facilitate folding and facilitate breaking with more effort, or to facilitate breaking with less effort.

As used herein, the phrase "with 8230 \8230; aligned" refers to the alignment of two or more elements in an erected carton, such as an aperture formed in a first of two stacked panels and a second aperture formed in a second of the two stacked panels. Those elements that are aligned with each other may be aligned with each other in the thickness direction of the stacked plates. For example, when an aperture in a first plate is "aligned" with a second aperture in a second plate (which is placed in a stacked arrangement with the first plate), an edge of the aperture may extend along at least a portion of an edge of the second aperture and may be aligned with the second aperture in a thickness direction of the first and second plates.

Claims (26)

1. A carton for packaging one or more articles, the carton comprising a plurality of walls defining an interior of the carton and a handle flap hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of walls along a flap fold line, wherein the handle flap has a plurality of parallel fold lines extending transverse to the flap fold line.

2. A blank for forming a carton comprising a plurality of panels for defining an interior chamber and a handle flap hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of panels along a flap fold line, wherein the handle flap has a plurality of parallel fold lines extending transverse to the flap fold line.

3. The blank of claim 2, wherein the plurality of parallel fold lines comprises three or more parallel fold lines.

4. The blank of claim 2, wherein each of the plurality of parallel fold lines is disposed substantially perpendicular to the flap fold line.

5. The blank of claim 4, wherein each of the plurality of parallel fold lines extends from the flap fold line toward a free edge of the handle flap.

6. The blank of claim 5, wherein at least one of the plurality of parallel fold lines extends all the way to the free edge of the handle flap.

7. The blank of claim 2, wherein the handle flap has a pair of opposing side edges, each of the pair of opposing side edges being parallel to the plurality of parallel fold lines.

8. The blank of claim 2, wherein the at least one of the plurality of panels comprises a dispenser panel defined by a pair of tear lines, and wherein the handle flap is disposed between the pair of tear lines at a location spaced apart from the tear lines.

9. The blank of claim 8, wherein the handle flap is disposed midway between the tear lines.

10. The blank of claim 8, wherein the flap fold line is oriented such that an imaginary extension of the flap fold line intersects the pair of tear lines.

11. The blank of claim 10, wherein the imaginary extension of the flap fold line is substantially perpendicular to a respective portion of the tear line with which the imaginary extension intersects.

12. The blank of claim 2, wherein the handle flap defines a central axis extending generally perpendicular to the flap fold line, and wherein the plurality of parallel fold lines are symmetrically disposed about the central axis.

13. The blank of claim 12, wherein one of the plurality of parallel fold lines extends co-linearly with the central axis.

14. The blank of claim 2, wherein the handle flap defines a central axis extending generally perpendicular to the flap fold line, and wherein the plurality of parallel fold lines comprises a first pair of fold lines disposed on opposite sides of the central axis at a location equidistant from the central axis, the first pair of fold lines disposed a first distance apart from each other.

15. The blank of claim 14, wherein the plurality of parallel fold lines further comprises a second pair of fold lines disposed on the opposite sides of the central axis at locations equidistant from the central axis, and wherein the second pair of fold lines are disposed a second distance from each other, the second distance being greater than the first distance.

16. The blank of claim 15, wherein the first pair of fold lines are each longer than each of the second pair of fold lines.

17. The blank of claim 14, wherein the first pair of fold lines each extend from the flap fold line toward a free edge of the handle flap, and wherein each of the first fold lines stops short of the free edge.

18. The blank of claim 17, wherein the plurality of parallel fold lines further comprises a central fold line extending co-linearly with the central axis.

19. The blank of claim 18, wherein the central fold line extends across the handle flap from the flap fold line to the free edge.

20. The blank of claim 19 wherein the central fold line is longer than each of the first fold lines.

21. The blank of claim 2, wherein the flap fold line has a length no greater than a maximum width of the handle flap.

22. A blank for forming a carton, the blank comprising:

a plurality of plates for defining an interior chamber; and

a handle flap hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of plates, the handle flap comprising:

a proximal portion hingedly connected to the at least one of the plurality of panels along a flap fold line; and

a pair of distal portions hingedly connected to the proximal portion along a pair of distal portion fold lines, respectively,

wherein the handle flap has a plurality of additional fold lines extending transversely to the flap fold lines.

23. A blank for forming a carton, the blank comprising a handle flap and a plurality of panels for defining an interior chamber, the handle flap being hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of panels, the handle flap comprising: a proximal portion hingedly connected to the at least one of the plurality of panels along a flap fold line; and a pair of distal portions hingedly connected to the proximal portion along a pair of distal portion fold lines, respectively, each of the distal portion fold lines extending substantially from a free edge of the handle flap, the pair of distal portion fold lines arranged divergently with respect to each other so as to diverge towards the flap fold line, wherein the handle flap has at least one further fold line extending transversely to the flap fold line.

24. A package, comprising:

a set of containers, each having a substantially circular cross-section; and

a carton disposed at least partially around an exterior of the set of containers, the carton comprising a plurality of panels and a handle flap hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of panels along a flap fold line, wherein the handle flap comprises a plurality of parallel fold lines extending transverse to the flap fold line.

25. A package, comprising:

a set of containers, each container having a substantially circular cross-section; and

a carton disposed at least partially around an exterior of the set of containers, the carton comprising a plurality of panels and a handle flap hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of panels, wherein the handle flap comprises;

a proximal portion hingedly connected to the at least one of the plurality of panels along a flap fold line; and

a pair of distal portions hingedly connected to the proximal portion along a pair of distal portion fold lines, respectively, and

wherein the handle flap has a plurality of further fold lines extending transversely to the flap fold line.

26. A package, comprising:

a set of containers, each having a substantially circular cross-section; and

a carton disposed at least partially around an exterior of the set of containers, the carton comprising a plurality of panels and a handle flap hingedly connected to at least one of the plurality of panels, wherein the handle flap comprises:

a proximal portion hingedly connected to the at least one of the plurality of panels along a flap fold line; and

a pair of distal portions hingedly connected to the proximal portion along a pair of distal portion fold lines, respectively, each of the distal portion fold lines extending substantially from a free edge of the handle flap, the pair of distal portion fold lines being divergently arranged relative to each other so as to diverge towards the flap fold line, and

wherein the handle flap has at least one further fold line extending transversely to the flap fold line.

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