EP0398835B1

EP0398835B1 - Carrier for a group of containers, formed from a cardboard blank

Info

Publication number: EP0398835B1
Application number: EP90500033A
Authority: EP
Inventors: José Jorba
Original assignee: Riverwood Espana SA
Current assignee: Riverwood Espana SA
Priority date: 1989-04-01
Filing date: 1990-03-30
Publication date: 1996-10-30
Anticipated expiration: 2010-03-30
Also published as: EP0398835A1; CA2013447A1; AU645007B2; JPH0343365A; ATE144748T1; DE69029007D1; AU5244490A

Abstract

Devices for grouped support and transport of receptacles and cardboard sheets to form them. The devices of the invention are executed in cardboard or pasteboard and comprise a smooth surface (12) which covers the top of the receptacles, which protects the caps from dirt, allows printing and consequent reading of a bar code for the whole set, provides enough stiffness to the formed support, increased in some of the forms of execution. They also comprise one or more lower (14) surfaces for retention of receptacles provided with retention openings formed by radial flanges (17) of special shapes. The devices are preferably made of cardboard or pasteboard diecast sheets which are introduced over the top of the receptacles and which by simple bending and adhesion form the devices. The invention has application in the support and transport of receptacles in groups of one or more rows, especially soft drink cans or pots.

Description

This invention refers to foldable container carriers for carrying a group of containers, as well as the cardboard or pasteboard blanks to form and execute such carriers.
The invention is intended to overcome the drawbacks or inconveniences that hitherto known devices have for the transport in groups of containers, especially containers of cylindrical or slightly frustoconical shaped top provided in one of their ends with a rim or shoulder, a specific example of application being the currently known soft drink cans or pots.
In accordance with the state of the art, this type of supporting devices are formed from bands or strips in cardboard or plastic, in which several openings are provided with flanges or radial projections for retention of the containers to be supported, which remain with their upper base or cap exposed to the outside, as for example the article carrier described in US-A-3432202. Another well known form of execution of a carrier device is that composed of a plurality of flexible plastic rings which surround the top of the containers making several ways of grouping possible. Such devices thus incorporate two main deficiencies or inconveniences. One is of a hygienic nature, since the spilling or direct ingestion of the contents of the containers becomes more frequent every day, and it is not desirable that the dirt resulting from their being exposed during storage and transport accumulate in their top or caps. Another drawback is of an economic or commercial nature, in particular in relation to the use, more extensive every day, of the sales charging and control system called bar code, reading of which is not possible with the supporting devices presently known, especially if the containers are arranged in adjacent rows, unless it is done separately and with great difficulty in handling for each one of the containers, but never for the whole supported lot.
US-A-3404912 and US-A-3764001 describe multiple-container carriers which cover the top portion of the containers supported. However, in US-A-3404912 there are disclosed spacing means which project outside the top wall of the carrier in rather central areas thereof, thus impeding the provision of an essentially uniform smooth surface for that top wall. In carrier described in US-A-3764001 its top wall requires a step portion of the same height as the retained portion of the containers supported, and consequently there is no provision of a uniform smooth surface at the top of the carriers.
Another inconvenient of the known devices lies in their general lack of rigidity for a comfortable and uniform handling and transport of the lot of containers supported, unless they are very ligth. For example, they are not adequate for the typical cans or pots of soft drinks, in which a group of three units already attains a weight of about one kilogram. This limitation has been solved, for example, by means of basket carriers, which involve an increased cost of the carrier and difficulties in its mechanical filling and execution, or else by means of the presence of additional areas of adhesive which give cohesion to the whole, which means the presence of a more or less persistent or undesirable substance in the container, in particular in the area of the caps. Also use of materials of greater rigidity has been resorted to, specifically plastics, giving rise to devices in which the container are difficult to extract and, above all, generate ecologically unacceptable residues.
Also in US-A-3404912 and US-A-3764001 is disclosed the retention or fastening of the containers by means of series of equal tabs or projections radially and adjacently arranged along the inner contour of substantially circular cut-outs. This type of multiple retention tabs poses several problems in practice. One is connected with securing that each tab is engaged under the rim or bead of the container; another is related to the rather energic force required for removal of the containers, and therefore in US-A-3404912 additional tearing out flaps are disclosed for helping said action.
Tilting of the supported containers is avoided in US-A-3404912 carrier only for the containers located at both ends thereof and outwardly of the carrier, while opposition to any tilting or bumping for all the containers supported would be desirable.
An additional drawback lies in the difficulty for the known devices being provided with handles, without thereby substantially complicating their structure or the amount of material utilized.
Finally, a mechanical action for forming the whole assembly, that is erection of the carrier and fastening of the containers, would also be desirable. However, this is sometimes a complicated operation for carriers of prior art, particularly when adopting embodiments of the type described in US-A-3404912.
Therefore, it is one objective of this invention to provide carriers for support and group transport of containers, which smoothly cover the upper part of such containers; which have enough rigidity to support a variable number of such containers, even though they are relatively heavy; which make possible to read the bar code for a lot of containers; which are executed in an ecologically acceptable material; from which the containers are easy to extract; and that, without affecting the previous purposes, have a simple execution, including being provided with handle means, which allows their execution and the incorporation of the containers by mechanical means.
The carriers of the invention fulfill the above objectives and others which will be mentioned later, when executed in cardboard or pasteboard and when they comprise a smooth surface which covers the top of the containers, which protects their caps from dirt, allows the printing and subsequent reading of a bar code for the whole lot, provides enough rigidity to the support formed, increased in some forms of execution. All of this from diecast blanks which are introduced over the top of the containers and which by simple bending and adhesion form the support and transport devices for the containers.
Other objectives and results of the invention are to provide support and transport carriers for a group of containers, in which, without altering their essential structure, handle means are provided, as well as means to avoid possible oscillation or rocking of the containers supported, so that noises from their bumping are reduced, greater comfort is provided in handling and stacking the carriers, and the risk of accidental detachment of any container supported by the carriers is reduced.
A basic form of execution of a carrier according to the invention is as defined in claim 1.
In another embodiment, especially for the support and transport of containers in two parallel rows, a carrier according to the invention:

is made of cardboard or pasteboard, and comprises
two lower surfaces for the retention of containers arranged in adjacent manner, each one having, a row of two or more retention openings for containers, axially aligned, and
an upper surface covering the top of the containers, which is smooth and of substantially rectangular shape,
from which handle means extend,
the contour of the retention openings being circular, with a diameter coinciding with or slightly longer than the top of the containers to be supported by
retention tabs projecting from each of the lines of weakness in the retention openings, with the shape of circular segments of concavely arched chord.

In a preferable form of embodiment, the zone of transition between the lines of weakness and the retention tabs in the retention openings has a notch of approximately semicircular shape open toward the inside of the retention openings.
Also, in a preferable embodiment, the lines of weakness in the retention openings comprise spaced cuts which follow their same arched contour.
In another embodiment for two parallel rows of containers, a carrier according to the invention:

is made of cardboard or pasteboard, and comprises
a lower surface for the retention of containers in which, by diecasting and marking, two rows of two or more equal retention openings for containers have been defined, each row being in axial alignment and separated from one another by a smooth area provided with handle means,
each one of these retention openings having a shape approximately equivalent to three quarters of a circle, of a diameter equal to or slightly longer than the top of the containers,
first unitary tabs for retention of containers at each side of the first tabs, which extend until joining the smooth area, and which adopt a shape approximately of circular segments of concave chord,
second smaller tabs for retention of containers projecting radially in variable number from the inside circular margin of the retention openings, located in a position diametrically opposite the smooth area which separates the rows of retention openings, and
U-shaped notches being provided in the separation between the first and second retention tabs, and
an upper surface covering the top of the containers, which is smooth and substantially rectangular, and which has in its central area handle means coinciding in position and dimension with those of the smooth area of the lower surface for the retention of containers.

In a further embodiment for two parallel rows of containers, a carrier according to the invention:

is made of cardboard or pasteboard, and comprises
a lower surface for the retention of containers in which by diecasting and marking, two rows of two or more equal retention openings for containers have been defined, each row being in axial alignment and with its retention openings in tangential contact with the openings of the other row,
the spaces between the two rows of retention openings being occupied by handle means,
each one of the retention openings having a circular shape, of a diameter equal to or slightly longer than the top of the containers,
first unitary tabs for retention of containers, located between the groups of first tabs, which adopt a shape approximately of circular segments of concave chord,
second smaller tabs for retention of containers projecting radially in variable number toward the inside of the retention openings, located in a position diametrically opposite to other group of substantially equal tabs,
U-shaped notches being provided in the separation between the first and second retention tabs, and
an upper surface covering the top of the containers, which is smooth and substantially rectangular, and which has in its central area handle means coinciding in position and dimension with those of the lower surface for the retention of containers.

In another embodiment for two parallel rows of containers, a carrier according to the invention:

is made of cardboard or pasteboard, and comprises
a lower surface for the retention of containers in which, by diecasting and marking, two rows of two or more equal retention openings for containers have been defined, each row being in axial alignment and with its retention openigs in tangential contact with the retention openings in the other row,
handle means occupying the spaces between the retention openings of the two rows,
each one of the retention openings having a circular shape, of a diameter equal or slightly longer than the top of the containers,
first unitary tabs for retention of containers, located between the groups of first retention tabs, which adopt a shape approximately of circular segments of concave chord,
second smaller tabs for retention of containers projecting radially in variable number toward the inside of the retention openings, located in a position diametrically opposite to other group of substantially equal tabs,
U-shaped notches being provided in the separation between the first and the second retention tabs,
the retention openings being occluded by flaps which extend, from the group of first retention tabs located in a position adjacent to the other row of retention openings, toward the inside of the retention openings,
the flaps being adhered at the inside of the carrier to
an upper surface covering the top of the containers, which is smooth and substantially rectangular, and which has in its central area handle means coinciding in position and dimension with those of the lower surface for the retention of containers.

In a preferable form of execution, the handle means are two or more aligned openings, of a diameter longer than that of the finger of an adult.
In a preferable embodiment, the retention openings of each row are in tangential contact.
In a preferable form of execution, the tangential contact zone between retention openings comprises a cut which facilitates later lifting of the retention tabs in that zone.
In a preferable embodiment, the retention openings of each row are in tangential contact and the corresponding zones of contact have a cut-out or aperture.
In an optional form of execution, the carrier has lines for tearing or pulling off transverse to the alignment of the containers, which allow dividing the carrier into portions which support or transport the number of containers desired by the consumer.
In any of the foregoing embodiments, the carriers of the invention are manufactured from cardboard or pasteboard blanks, also being an objective of the invention, in which the retention and covering surfaces show the characteristics and configurations previously defined and which are joined by means of the corresponding flaps or parts which, by folding or bending and subsequent gluing or stapling, permit formation of the carriers of the invention.
A better understanding of the improvements provided by the invention will be obtained from the detailed description of forms of practical execution which follows, illustrated without a limiting nature in the attached pages of drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a plan view of an example of cardboard blank forming a carrier according to the invention.
Figure 2 is a perspective view illustrating the application of a blank similar to the Figure 1 on two containers.
Figures 3 and 4 are perspective views of an example of a carrier applied on two and three containers, respectively.
Figure 5 is a perspective view of a carrier applied on four containers, showing the possibility of dividing it into groups of two containers.
Figure 6 is a plan view of an example of blank forming a carrier in other form of execution.
Figure 7 is a perspective view illustrating a carrier formed from the blank of Figure 6.
Figure 8 is a plan view of an example of a blank forming a carrier in another form of execution, provided with a handle.
Figure 9 is a perspective view of a carrier formed from the blank of Figure 8.
Figure 10 is a plan view of an example of blank forming a carrier in another form of execution.
Figure 11 is a perspective view of a carrier formed from the blank of Figure 10.
Figure 12 is a plan view of a blank forming a carrier in another form of execution.
Figures 13, 14 and 15 are perspective views illustrating examples of carriers formed from blanks similar to the Figure 12, applied on two, three and four containers, respectively.
Figure 16 is a perspective view of a carrier applied on six containers, with the possibility of dividing it into groups of three containers.
Figure 17 is a plan view of a blank forming a carrier in another form of execution.
Figure 18 is a perspective view of a carrier formed from a blank similar to the Figure 17.
Figure 19 is a plan view of a blank forming a carrier in another form of execution.
Figure 20 is a perspective view of a carrier formed from a blank similar to the Figure 19.
Figure 21 is a plan view of a blank forming a carrier in another form of execution.
Figure 22 is a perspective view of a carrier formed from a blank similar to the Figure 21.
Figure 23 is a plan view of a blank forming a carrier in an embodiment adapted for two rows of containers, provided with handle.
Figure 24 is a perspective view, illustrating the application of a blank similar to the Figure 23, on two pairs of containers.
Figures 25 and 26 are perspective views illustrating a carrier applied on pairs of rows of two and three containers, respectively.
Figure 27 is a plan view of a blank forming a carrier in another form of execution.
Figures 28 and 29 are perspective views of a carrier formed from a blank similar to the Figure 27, applied on pairs of rows of three and two containers, respectively.
Figure 30 is a partial plan view illustrating an example of a different way of executing the retention openings for containers, applicable to any of the previous embodiments.
Figure 31 is a plan view of a blank forming a carrier for four containers in two rows.
Figure 32 is a similar view for six containers in two rows.
Figure 33 is a similar view for eight containers in two rows.
Figure 34 is a perspective view illustrating the application of the blank illustrated in Figure 32 on two rows of three containers.
Figure 35 is an equivalent view with the carrier already formed.
Figure 36 is a plan view of a blank forming a carrier in another form of execution.
Figures 37 and 38 are similar views for six and eight containers in two rows, respectively.
Figure 39 is a perspective view illustrating the application of the blank of Figure 37 on two rows of three containers.
Figure 40 is an equivalent view with a carrier already formed.
Figure 41 is a detail in partial section illustrating the arrangement between elements of the carrier illustrated in Figure 40.
Figure 42 is a partial plan view illustrating an example of a different way of executing the retention openings for containers, applicable to the carriers according to the invention.
Figure 43 is a plan view of a blank forming a carrier in another form of execution.
Figure 44 is a detail in partial section illustrating the arrangement between elements of a carrier from the blank illustrated in Figure 43.

In Figure 1 an example is illustrated of a diecast blank of cardboard of pasteboard for executing a support and transport carrier for containers according to the invention. The blank adopts a substantially rectangular shape, on which by lines of weakness or folding (10,11) two surfaces or end flaps (12,13) have been defined, also substantially rectangular and of a different width (although they could be equal), and by superimposition, as illustrated in Figure 2, and joining by means of an adhesive or other means, define the upper surface (20) of the supporting carrier as illustrated in Figures 3 and 4.
The central surface (14) of the blank has a row of equal retention openings (16) (three in the example), axially aligned, of circular contour and in tangential contact, each one defined by lines of weakness (15), which together compose the cited circular contour. From the lines of weakness (15) project a pair of retention tabs (17) for each container, approximately in the form of circular segments of chord (18) arched concavely.
Preferably, each one of the points or zones of transition or separation between lines of weakness (15) and retention tabs (17) have a small notch approximately semicircular (19) the purpose of which will be explained later.
As illustrated in Figure 2, the blank is superimposed on containers (30) through their surface (14) provided with retention openings.
The containers (30) may be of a large variety of types, but those having a frustoconical shape or a shoulder in their top forming with their rim a perimetral notch or groove will be preferred. An example are the cans illustrated in Figure 2, although other containers may be suitable, including those in which their upper parts form the perimetral notch or groove in the proximity of their caps.
The diameter of the top of the containers (30) should coincide with or be slightly less than the contour of the retention openings of the surface (14) of the blank, which when it is superimposed and pushed toward the base of the containers, until the edge or chord (18) of the tabs (17) snaps into the cited perimetral notch or groove of the top of the containers (30). Then the flaps (12,13) are folded and joined, as indicated previously, and the support carrier of the invention is formed with its upper smooth surface (20) and lower surface of retention (14), as illustrated in Figures 3 and 4.
In these figures, and as can be understood, it is also illustrated that a carrier according to the invention might support groups of two or more containers (30) depending on the number of retention openings with which it is equipped. Thus, in Figure 5 a carrier supporting four containers (30) is illustrated, which could also be divided into groups of two containers by the lines of tearing or pulling off (100) previously marked in a direction transverse to the alignment of the containers (30) and passing between the retention openings.
By the preceding description, it is deduced that the union between the supporting carrier and containers (30) depends on the flexion or ease of lifting of the tabs (17) along the lines of weakness (15). Furthermore, it can be understood and observed in Figures 3, 4 and 5, that the lower surface (14) of the carrier suffers a concave-convex deformation as soon as the tabs (17) snap in the perimetral groove of the containers (30), which ease of deformation also depends on the articulation of the tabs (17) on the lines of weakness (15).
In order to increase lifting or flexion of the tabs (17), in the example illustrated in Figure 1 the lines of weakness (15) include spaced cuts (21) in a coinciding arched contour, for example in the positions illustrated in the example. These cuts, in the margins of the surface (14) of the blank, are replaced by small notches (22).
In Figure 6 and the figures following, other examples of forms of execution of the carriers of the invention are illustrated, as well as examples of diecast blanks for forming such carriers. In these figures the same numeral references as above are employed to designate similar parts or pieces, and in the description that follows specific mention will only be made of the variations introduced with respect to what has been described and illustrated with reference to Figures 1 to 5.
Thus, in Figure 6 a similar blank to that of Figure 1 is illustrated, except that it comprises a flap (23) in continuation of flap (12), the purpose of which, as can be seen in Figure 7, is to provide an additional surface or panel in contact with the side of the containers (30), capable of containing information on the contents of the containers, and also to add transverse rigidity to the carrier. It is understood that the dimension of the surface or panel which the flap (23) provides may vary from case to case, as well as the possible presence of adhesive between the inside face of the panel (23) and the lateral surface of the containers (30), so that a greater security of retention by the support carrier is achieved. Likewise, this carrier can be provided with tearing or pulling off lines (100) mentioned in relation to Figure 5.
In Figure 8 an example of diecast blank is illustrated, which permits a support and transport carrier like the illustrated in Figure 9, which is differentiated from the previous carriers in being provided with an upper handle (24). As illustrated in Figure 8, the surface (14) provided with retention openings is extended on one end by means of a rectangular flap (25) and on the other end by means of a first rectangular flap (26) of a width aproximately equal to half of that corresponding to the surface (14) and by two equal flaps (27,28), one provided with an opening (29) and the other with a cut-out (31) with which it partially coincides in shape.
In order to form the carrier illustrated in Figure 9 from the diecast blank of Figure 8, the flap (25) is folded onto the surface (14), of course after the introduction of the top of the containers (30), and then onto the flap (25) is folded the flap (26) with interposition of an adhesive, so that the carrier is basically formed. Finally, the handle (24) is formed by joining flaps (27,28), opening (29) and cut-out (31) coinciding to form a window (32) for introduction of the user's fingers. It is understood that the width of the flaps (27,28) depends on the height desired for the handle (24), and also, as illustrated in the example, the flaps (27,28) can have a slightly trapezoidal shape.
In Figure 10 an example of blank similar to the Figure 8 is illustrated, except that it is extended on one of its ends by a first flap (33) of equal dimensions to flap (26) and by a second flap (34) of variable dimensions. The result is the carrier illustrated in Figure 11, provided with a panel (34) which performs the same function mentioned in the description of the blank and carrier of Figures 6 and 7.
As aforementioned, the carriers according to the invention may support two or more containers (30). However, according to the weight of the containers (30), after three or four units the upper and lower surfaces (20,14) of the carrier may experience some deformation during handling by the user.
For such cases of heavy containers or for a relatively high number of containers to be supported, it will be preferable to utilize another carriers according to the invention, examples of which and of the blanks capable of forming them are illustrated in Figures 12 to 44.
In Figure 12 a blank which substantially coincides with the example of basic execution illustrated in Figure 1 is illustrated, the difference lies in the fact that at each side of the central surface (14), equipped with retention openings for the retention of containers, and before the end flaps (35,36), by means of spaced pairs of folding lines (37,38) and (39,40) two narrow rigidizing flaps (41,42) are defined, which when folded to form the carrier according to Figures 13 to 16 define ribs through the lines (37,38,39,40) which work as rigidizing or resistance edges to the strains which the carriers experience when handled. As illustrated in Figure 16, this embodiment of the carrier may also be equipped with tearing or pulling off lines (100).
In Figure 17, an example of blank similar to the Figure 12 is illustrated, except that it comprises a flap (43) in continuation of flap (35) defining a panel (43) for the carrier illustrated in Figure 18, which function has previously been explained.
In Figure 19 an example of diecast blank from which is derived the carrier illustrated in Figure 20 is illustrated, which is differentiated from the previous carriers by an upper handle (44). As it is illustrated in Figure 19, one of the narrow rigidizing flaps (41,42), in the example flap (41), is joined or it is extended by means of a first rectangular flap (45) of a width approximately equal to half that corresponding to the surface (14) provided with retention openings, and by two flaps (46,47) of equal width, one provided with an opening (48) and the other with a cut-out (49) partially coinciding in shape with the opening. The way of folding and retention is the same as explained for the example in Figure 8, and the result is the carrier illustrated in Figure 20.
In Figure 21 an example of a blank similar to the Figure 10 is illustrated, except that it is extended at one of its ends into a first flap (50) of equal dimensions to flap (45), and a second flap (51) of variable dimensions. The result is the carrier illustrated in Figure 22, provided with a panel (51) which performs the same functions enunciated in the description of the blanks and carriers in Figures 6, 7, 10, 11, 17 and 18.
In Figure 23 it is illustrated an example of a diecast blank, of cardboard or pasteboard, for forming a support and transport carrier for containers according to the invention, especially designed to support containers (30) in two parallel rows.
As illustrated, the blank adopts a substantially rectangular plant, in which two surfaces or flaps (60,61) have been defined by lines of weakness or folding (55,56,57,58,59) provided with retention openings (62), between which two flaps (63,64) are located for making a handle attached to the whole assembly. By backing and superimposition, as illustrated in Figure 24, and joining by means of an adhesive or other means, the upper surface (20) and handle (65) for the supporting carrier in two rows are formed, as illustrated in Figures 25 and 26.
The surfaces or flaps (60,61) of the blank each have a row of equal retention openings (62) (three in the example), axially aligned, of circular contour and in tangential contact. Each one is defined, as explained previously, by lines of weakness (15) of circular contour. From the lines of weakness (15) project retention tabs (17), of a form approximating circular segments of chord (18) arched concavely. Also, according to what was previously mentioned, each one of the points or zones of union or transition between lines of weakness (15) and retention tabs (17) will preferably present a small notch (19) approximately semicircular, the function of which is to improve the adaptation of the retention openings (62) at the top of the containers, in particular with the rim which they used to be provided.
The central flaps (63,64) of the blank have centered windows or openings (66,67) having a form, position and dimension coinciding, intended to define, in due time, together with the flaps (63,64), the handle (65) of the carrier.
As illustrated in Figure 24, the blank is superimposed on parallel rows of containers (30) through their flaps (60,61) provided with retention openings (62). As in the embodiments previously described, the diameter of the top of the containers (30) coincides or is slightly less than the contour of the retention openings (62) in the flaps (60,61) of the blank, which when superimposed is pressed toward the base of the containers (30) until the edge or chord (18) of the tabs (17) is introduced by snapping into the perimetral notch or groove at the top of the containers (30). Then the flaps (63,64) are folded by the line (55) until they are back to back, and thus side by side the two rows of containers (30) in the retention openings (62). Finally, the flaps (68,69) at the end of the blank are folded onto the top of the containers (30). One of those flaps, in the example flap (69), has an appendix or projection (70) of a form, position and dimension coincident with the openings (66,67) of the flaps (63,64), through which passes in the previous folding, coming to be located in contact over the flap (68) receiving in that area an adhesive or other means of retention. Thus the support carrier is formed, with an upper smooth surface (20), a perpendicular handle (65) and lower adjacent surfaces of retention (60,61) as illustrated in Figures 25 and 26, in which, as can be understood, the possibility is also illustrated that the carrier grouped rows of two or more containers (30), depending on the number of retention openings (62) with which it is provided.
Also, as in the previous embodiments, to increase the articulation or flexion of the tabs (17) in the retention openings (62), the lines of weakness (15) have spaced and in a coinciding arched contour some cuts (21), for example in the positions illustrated in Figure 23. Such cuts (21) in the margins of the flaps (60,61) of the blank are replaced by small notches (22).
In this embodiment, the carriers according to the invention support two rows of two or more containers (30) each. However, as was previously explained, for heavy containers or for a relatively high number of containers to be supported, the use of carriers and blanks as in the examples illustrated in Figures 27 to 29, is preferable.
In Figure 27 an example of blank is illustrated which coincides substantially with the example illustrated in Figure 23. The difference lies in the fact that between flaps (60,68) and (61,69) by spaced pairs of lines of folding (37,38) and (39,40), two narrow rigidizing flaps (41,42) are formed, which when folded to form the carrier according to Figures 28 and 29, define ribs by the lines (37,38,39,40) which work as rigidizing edges resistant to the strains which the carriers experience when handled.
By the preceding description it is deduced that one of the principal characteristics of the carriers according to the invention lies in the configuration of the retention openings for containers, on the basis of the pair of retention tabs (17) disposed opposite each other.
Despite obtaining satisfactory results with such tabs, in Figure 30 an alternative execution is illustrated for the retention openings, applicable to all the examples described previously. In this embodiment, the retention openings are formed by a circular line of weakness (52) of a diameter coinciding or slightly longer than the top of the containers (30), and from that line of weakness, besides the tabs (17) already described, other smaller tabs (53) project radially, separated by slits (54), the rest of the retention opening being empty. The result will be a retention opening (62) with tabs (17,53) which will completely surround the top of the container and will be introduced by snapping their edges in the notch or groove of each top.
In Figure 31, a further example of blank is illustrated, for forming a carrier also for two rows of containers in a more simplified form than the one described in the preceding paragraphs. In this example, the blank is also approximately rectangular, and by lines of weakness or folding (71,72,73,74,75,76) two surfaces or areas (77,78), among others, have been defined provided with rows of retention openings (62), between which is located a flap (79) provided with an opening (80) which will define part of a handle means for the whole assembly. On each side of the surfaces (77,78) extend other flaps (81,82) and (83,84), the function of which will be explained later, although here it must be indicated that the surfaces (77,78) define together the lower surface for the retention of containers of the carrier, and the flap (84) the upper surface for protection of the top of the containers, according to the characteristics of the invention.
In this embodiment, the retention openings (62) adopt a form approximately equivalent to three quarters of a circle interrupted by its contact with the lines of weakness (73,74) which delimit the flap or central area (79) which divides the surfaces (77,78). The diameter of these retention openings (62) is understood to be equal or slightly longer than the the top of the containers (30) to be supported.
From the inner circular margin of the retention openings (62) plural retention tabs (85) project radially, three in the example illustrated, but which might be in any other number. The retention tabs (85) are located in a position diametrically opposite to the central flap (79). Unitary retention tabs (86), two in each retention opening (62), are located at each side of the retention tabs (85) and adopt a form approximately of circular segments of concave chord, extended at their narrowest end until union or contact with the central flap (79). The retention tabs (85) are separated by straight radial slits (87), while the separation between the group of retention tabs (85) and unitary retention tabs (86) is defined by larger U-shaped notches (88) intended to facilitate the deformation of tabs (85,86) at the moment of introduction over the top of the containers.
In Figures 32 and 33 equivalent blanks to the Figure 31 are illustrated, except that they are respectively adapted to support six or eight containers in two rows. In view of the consequent greater weight to support by the carriers which the blanks would make, a larger number of handle means has been provided. Thus, while in Figure 31 the handle means will be defined by coincidence of opening (80) in the flap (79) with the opening (89) in the flap (84), when the latter is brought down over the first one, in Figure 32 the openings to define handle means are double and in Figure 33 triple. In these figures the same numeral references have been employed for designating the same parts or elements.
In Figure 34 a phase of the execution of a carrier according to the invention is illustrated, with two rows of three containers (30). As can be observed, the blank is introduced over the properly grouped containers until their top penetrate into the retention openings (62) and the retention tabs (85,86) snapped into the lower part of the rim (90) which these containers generally have at their top. The foregoing operation is even facilitated in the case of cans or pots of soft drinks which in the proximity of the rim (90) have a narrowing defining a shoulder. Then the flap (81) is folded or brought down over the top of the containers (30) and the flap (84) over the flap (81), in both cases acting as a hinge the narrow flaps (82,83), respectively. The application of an adhesive in appropriate areas of the flaps (81), (79) and (84) fixes the formation of the carrier which is illustrated complete in Figure 35.
The material utilized, cardboard or pasteboard, generally has enough flexibility to allow the displacement of the retention tabs (85,86) during their introduction onto the top of the containers (30). However, the displacement can be facilitated by means of cuts (91) made on the lines of weakness which define the retention openings, for example in the positions illustrated in Figures 31, 32 and 33.
In Figures 36 to 41 another form of execution of a carrier and of the blanks which form the carrier is illustrated. This embodiment basically coincides with the one which was just described in relation to Figures 31 to 35, so that the same numeral references are maintained and repetition of the characteristics which have already been described is avoided.
The principal difference in relation to the form of execution previously described lies in the retention openings (62), which have a complete circular contour and a second group of retention tabs (92) approximately equal to tabs (85) and which are located diametrically opposite thereto. From the retention tabs (92) extend flaps (93), which partially occupy the inner space of the retention openings (62), intended to impede oscillation or rocking of the containers (30).
It is also observed that in this embodiment the retention openings (62) corresponding to each row are in tangential contact, and that the handle openings (80) occupy the spaces between the openings (62). This embodiment with openings in tangential contact is considered preferable, but should be understood that nothing would prevent the existence of an intermediate flap similar to the one designated with the reference number (79) in Figures 31 to 34.
In Figure 39 a phase of the formation of a carrier from the blank of Figure 37 is illustrated, here giving as stated what was described in relation to Figure 34. Also, it will be observed in Figure 40, where the carrier is illustrated already completed, that at least externally it has an aspect similar to the one illustrated in Figure 35.
As indicated previously, the flaps (93) have the function of preventing or making less likely the oscillation or rocking of all the containers (30) supported, especially toward the outside of the carrier, and the way in which the flaps (93) fulfill this function will be understood from the detail illustrated in Figure 41.
In that Figure 41 it can be observed that tabs (92) instead of being snapped in the rim (90) of the containers (30), as it happens with retention tabs (85,86), surround that rim and the flaps (93) which extend from them are adhered to the lower face of the flap (84) by means of one or more adhesive layers (94). In this way, displacement or oscillation in approximation of containers (30) is prevented due to their proximity or contact, while the displacement or oscillation in separation of containers (30) is prevented or made significantly less likely by the stopping effect which the tabs (92) make against the rims (90).
It is understood from the previous description that the flaps (93) may totally or partially occupy the inner space of the retention openings (62) and adopt an equal or different form inside the retention openings (62).
In Figure 42 an alternative embodiment is illustrated for the retention openings (62), applicable to all the examples described previously. This embodiment is basically similar to the one described in connection with Figure 30. The retention openings (62) have a circular shape defined by a line of weakness (52) from which project retention tabs (17,53). What constitutes the difference with the embodiment of Figure 30 is the fact that the tangential contact zones between retention openings in their respective row have a cut-out or aperture (101) with a shape approximately to an ellipse, in order to ease the bending or lifting of the retention tabs (17) when snapping in the rim (90) of the containers (30).
In Figure 43 it is illustrated a blank incorporating the form of execution of the retention openings (62) shown in Figure 42. As can be observed this blank is similar to the one illustrated in Figure 38 and also comprises the handle means (80,89) provided there, and even this form of execution could be completed with the flaps (93).
Finally, Figure 44 is a detail similar to Figure 40, illustrating how the hollow tangential zones of contact (101) enable the snapping of the retention tabs (17) under the rims (90) of the containers (30).
In all the forms of execution described, is present the characteristic of providing a smooth surface which covers the top of the containers, as well as also smooth lateral surfaces in some of the embodiments, these surfaces being easily utilizable for printing information on the product in the containers, including the so-called bar code. Likewise, in all the forms of execution described a highly resistant support and transport carrier is provided, even for a relatively high number of containers, whether or not handle means are provided. Also, in all the forms of execution described the folding of the cardboard blanks which form the carriers and the incorporation to them of the containers is very simple, so that it becomes very easy to assign these operations to a machine.

Claims

A foldable container carrier for carrying a group of containers, in particular those having at their top a frustoconical shape or shoulder which defines with the rim of their top a perimetral notch or groove wherein retention tabs can be introduced, comprising a lower surface (14) having retention opening (16) with retention tabs for retention of the containers (30), and an upper surface (20) of a substantially rectangular shape for covering the top of the containers, the retention openings (16)forming at least one row of axially aligned retention openings and being delimited by weakness lines (15) and cut out edges of a circular contour, with a diameter substantially coinciding with the top of the containers, characterised in that :
- the upper surface (20), when folded over the top of the containers, presents a smooth surface, and by:

- two diametrically opposite retention tabs (17) projecting into the retention openings (16) from the lines of weakness (15), with the shape of circular segments of concavely arched chord (18).
A container carrier, according to claim 1, characterised in that the circular contour of the retention openings (62) have a shape equivalent to three quarters of a circle, of a diameter substantially coinciding with the top of the containers.
A container carrier, according to any preceding claim, characterised in that the retention openings (62) comprise second smaller tabs (53,85,92), projecting radially in variable number from the inner circular margin of the retention openings, located in at least one of the spaces between the two retention tabs (17,86).
A container carrier, according to any preceding claim, characterised in that the lower surface (77,78) for retention of the containers (30) has two rows of two or more equal retention openings (16,62) for containers, each row being in axial alignment and separated from one another by a smooth area (79) provided with handle means (80).
A container carrier, according to any preceding claim, characterised in that the lower surface (77,78) for retention of the containers (30) has two rows of two or more equal retention openings (16,62) for containers, each row being in axial alignment and with its retention openings in tangential contact with the retention openings of the other row, and handle means (80) occupying the spaces between the retention openings of the two rows.
A container carrier, according to any preceding claim, characterised in that the upper surface (84) covering the top of the containers is provided with handle means (89) coinciding in position and dimension with those of the lower surface (77,78).
A container carrier, according to any preceding claim, characterised in that it comprises two lower surfaces (60,61) for retention of the containers (30) arranged in adjacent manner, and an upper surface (20) for covering the top of the containers, which is smooth and of a substantially rectangular shape, from which handle means (24,65) extend.
A container carrier, according to any preceding claim, characterised in that the retention openings (16,62) are partially occluded by flaps (93) which extend toward the inside of the retention openings from the spaces between retention tabs (17,86).
A container carrier, according to any preceding claim, characterised in that the flaps (93) have a shape and dimension equal to the inner space of the retention openings (16,62).
A container carrier, according to any preceding claim, characterised in that the transition zones between lines of weakness (15,52) and retention tabs (17) have a semicircular notch (19) open toward the inside of the retention openings (16).
A container carrier, according to any preceding claim, characterised in that U-shaped notches (54,88) are provided in the separation between the first (17,86) and second (53,85,92) retention tabs.
A container carrier, according to any preceding claim, characterised in that the lines of weakness (15,52) which define the retention openings (16,62) comprise spaced cuts (21) which follow their same arched contour.
A container carrier, according to any preceding claim, characterised in that the retention openings (16,62) in each row are in tangential contact.
A container carrier, according to claim 13, characterised in that the zone of tangential contact between retention openings (16,62) has a cut (21,91).
A container carrier, according to any preceding claim, characterised in that the retention openings (16,62) of each row are in tangential contact and the corresponding zones of contact have a cut-out or aperture (101).
A container carrier, according to claim 15, characterised in that the cut-out or aperture (101) adopts an elliptical shape.
A container carrier, according to any preceding claim, characterised in that the handle means (80,89) are formed by two or more aligned openings of a diameter longer than that of an adult person's finger.
A container carrier, according to any preceding claim, characterised in that the upper surface (20) covering the top of the containers has a handle (24,44,65).
A container carrier, according to any preceding claim, characterised in that the upper surface (20) for covering the top of the containers is extended by a panel or surface (34,51) which partially covers the lateral surface of the containers (30).
A container carrier, according to claim 19, characterised in that the panel or surface (34,51) is joined by means of an adhesive to the lateral surface of the containers.
A container carrier, according to any preceding claim, characterised in that it has lines of tear or pulling off (100) transverse to the row of containers.
Blank, for the execution of a container carrier as defined in the preceding claims, of the type having a substantially rectangular shape, in which by lines of weakness or folding two or more flaps or surfaces are defined, with the purpose of forming
- an upper surface of the container carrier, and

- a lower surface for retention of the containers having retention openings with retention tabs, the retention openings (16) forming at least one row of axially aligned retention openings and being delimited by weakness lines (15) and cut out edges of a circular contour, with a diameter substantially coinciding with the top of the containers, characterised in that:

- the upper surface (20), when folded over the top of the containers, presents a smooth surface, and by:

- two diametrically opposite retention tabs (17) projecting into the retention openings (16) from the lines of weakness (15), with the shape of circular segments of concavely arched chord (18).
Blank, according to claim 22, characterised in that the flaps (60,61,77,78) forming the lower surface are two, and each has a row of two or more retention openings (16,62) for containers.
Blank, according to any of claims 22 and 23, characterised in that it comprises two narrow flaps (41,42,82,83) which define the laterals or sides of the container carrier.
Blank, according to any of claims 22 to 24, characterised in that the circular contour of the retention openings (62) have a shape equivalent to three quarters of a circle of a diameter substantially coinciding with the top of the containers.
Blank, according to any of claims 22 to 25, characterised in that the retention openings (62) comprise second smaller tabs (53,85,92), projecting radially in variable number from the inner circular margin of the retention openings, located in the spaces between first retention tabs (17,86).
Blank, according to any of claims 22 to 26, characterised in that U-shaped notches (54,88) are provided in the separation between the first (17,86) and second (53,85,92) retention tabs.
Blank, according to any of claims 22 to 27, characterised in that the inner space of the retention openings (16,62) is occupied by flaps (93) which extend toward the inside of the retention openings.
Blank, according to claim 28, characterised in that the flaps (93) which occlude the retention openings (16,62) have a shape and dimension equal to the inner space of the retention openings.
Blank, according to any of claims 22 to 29, characterised in that the transition zones between lines of weakness (15,52) and retention tabs (17) have a semicircular notch (19) open toward the inside of the retention openings (16).
Blank, according to any of claims 22 to 30, characterised in that the lines of weakness (15,52) which define the retention openings (16,62) comprise spaced cuts (21) which follow their same arched contour.
Blank, according to any of claims 22 to 31, characterised in that the retention openings (16,62) of each row are in tangential contact.
Blank, according to claim 32, characterised in that the zones of tangential contact between retention openings have a cut (21,91).
Blank, according to any of claims 22 to 33, characterised in that the retention openings (16,62) of each row are in tangential contact and the corresponding zones of contact has a cut-out or aperture (101).
Blank, according to claim 34, characterised in that the cut-out or aperture (101) has an elliptical shape.
Blank, according to any of claims 22 to 35, characterized in that it has lines of tear or pulling off (100) transverse to the row of retention openings.
Blank, according to any of claims 22 to 36, characterised in that the flaps (77,78) provided with rows of retention openings are separated by a narrow flap (79) provided with handle openings (80) coinciding in position and dimension with handle openings (89) in the flap (84) forming the upper surface of the container carrier.
Blank, according to any of claims 22 to 37, characterised in that the handle openings (80,89) have a diameter longer than that of the finger of an adult person's hand.
Blank, according to any of claims 22 to 38, characterised in that at each side of the flaps (77,78) provided with retention openings, there are pairs of lines (71,72,75,76) of folding which define a pair of narrow additional flaps (82,83).
Blank, according to any of claims 22 to 39, characterised in that between the flaps (60,61) provided with retention openings (62) there are spaced pairs (55,56,57) of lines of folding which define two narrow additonal flaps (63,64).
Blank, according to any of claims 22 to 40, characterised in that it comprises one flap (23,43) adjacent to the flap (12,35) forming the upper surface (20) of the container carrier which defines an additional surface or panel (34,51).