Classifications

• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
  • B65B17/00—Other machines, apparatus, or methods for packaging articles or materials
  • B65B17/02—Joining articles, e.g. cans, directly to each other for convenience of storage, transport, or handling
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
  • B65B17/00—Other machines, apparatus, or methods for packaging articles or materials
  • B65B17/02—Joining articles, e.g. cans, directly to each other for convenience of storage, transport, or handling
  • B65B17/025—Joining articles, e.g. cans, directly to each other for convenience of storage, transport, or handling the articles being joined by a top carrier element
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
  • B65B21/00—Packaging or unpacking of bottles
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65B—MACHINES, APPARATUS OR DEVICES FOR, OR METHODS OF, PACKAGING ARTICLES OR MATERIALS; UNPACKING
  • B65B27/00—Bundling particular articles presenting special problems using string, wire, or narrow tape or band; Baling fibrous material, e.g. peat, not otherwise provided for
  • B65B27/04—Bundling groups of cans or bottles
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
  • B65D71/00—Bundles of articles held together by packaging elements for convenience of storage or transport, e.g. portable segregating carrier for plural receptacles such as beer cans or pop bottles; Bales of material
  • B65D71/40—Bundles of articles held together by packaging elements for convenience of storage or transport, e.g. portable segregating carrier for plural receptacles such as beer cans or pop bottles; Bales of material comprising a plurality of articles held together only partially by packaging elements formed by folding a blank or several blanks
  • B65D71/42—Bundles of articles held together by packaging elements for convenience of storage or transport, e.g. portable segregating carrier for plural receptacles such as beer cans or pop bottles; Bales of material comprising a plurality of articles held together only partially by packaging elements formed by folding a blank or several blanks formed by folding a single blank into a single layer element
• • B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
  • B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
  • B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
  • B65D71/00—Bundles of articles held together by packaging elements for convenience of storage or transport, e.g. portable segregating carrier for plural receptacles such as beer cans or pop bottles; Bales of material
  • B65D71/40—Bundles of articles held together by packaging elements for convenience of storage or transport, e.g. portable segregating carrier for plural receptacles such as beer cans or pop bottles; Bales of material comprising a plurality of articles held together only partially by packaging elements formed by folding a blank or several blanks
  • B65D71/46—Bundles of articles held together by packaging elements for convenience of storage or transport, e.g. portable segregating carrier for plural receptacles such as beer cans or pop bottles; Bales of material comprising a plurality of articles held together only partially by packaging elements formed by folding a blank or several blanks formed by folding a single blank into a tubular element

Definitions

• the at least one stabilisation peg is keyed to a given receiving orientation with respect to the plate.
• the applicator comprises a plate and at least one guide depending therefrom for retaining the groups of articles in a predefined arrangement.
• the disconnecting device comprises one or more blades mounted to a plate in which the article receiving orifices are provided.
• the one or more blades is detachably mounted to the plate.
• the one or more blades comprises at least one detent for engaging a catch in a slot provided in the plate.
• the plate comprises plurality of blade receiving locations and a plurality of blades that can be reconfigured a desired arrangement to accommodate a given configuration of connected blanks.
• a sixth aspect of the invention provides a disconnecting apparatus for separating a plurality of connected article carriers engaged with groups of articles, the disconnecting apparatus comprises a plate having a plurality of article receiving orifices each for receiving a respective article and a plurality of blade receiving locations each capable of detachably mounting a disconnecting blade for breaking frangible connections between adjacently disposed carriers, and a plurality of blades is detachably mounted to the plate, the plurality of blades being reconfigurable to a desired arrangement to accommodate a given configuration of connected carriers.
• the apparatus comprises an overhead conveyor for conveying the plurality of connected blanks onto the one or more articles.
• the apparatus comprises a plurality of article engagement tools each for engaging a respective article, metering and grouping the articles and conveying said articles in a downstream direction as metered groups.
• the separator is mounted to an overhead conveyor and is transferred continuously downstream through a working reach of a packaging machine in synchronicity with the article carriers.
• the reference device comprises an abutment pin extending upwardly from the article engagement tool beyond the upper extremity of the one or more articles, the abutment pin having a head.
• the head provides a reference body.
• the reference body provides a wall for engaging an edge of the at least one blank.
• the wall is a cylindrical wall.
• an upper end of the head is tapered to provide an inclined surface for aligning the at least one blank with the reference body.
• the inclined surface is conical.
• the head comprises a support surface for inhibiting undesired deformation or creasing of the blank in a target region thereof.
• the head comprise a reference body extending from the support surface.
• a thirteenth aspect of the invention provides an apparatus for packaging one or more articles in an article carrier.
• the apparatus comprises an article engagement tool for engaging an article and conveying the article in a downstream direction.
• the article engagement tool comprises a reference device for aligning a plurality of connected blanks with two or more groups of articles.
• the reference device comprises an abutment pin extending upwardly from the article engagement tool beyond the upper extremity of the one or more articles.
• the abutment pin has a head, the head comprises a support surface for inhibiting undesired deformation or creasing of the plurality of connected blanks in a target region thereof.
• a fourteenth aspect of the invention provides an apparatus for packaging one or more articles in an article carrier.
• the apparatus comprises an article engagement tool for engaging an article and conveying the article in a downstream direction.
• the article engagement tool comprises a support device for supporting a portion of at least one blank.
• the support device comprises an abutment pin extending upwardly from the article engagement tool.
• the abutment pin has a head.
• the head comprises a support surface for inhibiting undesired deformation of the at least one blank in a target region thereof.
• a feature, or combination of features, of an embodiment disclosed herein may be extracted in isolation from other features of that embodiment.
• a feature, or combination of features, of an embodiment may be omitted from that embodiment.
• Figure 1 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to embodiments of the present disclosure
• Figure 5B is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the blank of Figure 5A;
• Figure 6 is a perspective view from above of a carrier formed from the blank of Figure 5A;
• Figure 13 is a plan view from above of a pair of connected blanks each for forming a carrier according to an embodiment of the present disclosure
• Figure 20 is a perspective view from below of a separation device forming a part of a packing system according to alternative embodiments of the present disclosure
• Figure 21 is an end view of the separation device of Figure 20;
• Figure 23 is a cutaway view of the separation device of Figure 20 in operational engagement with a plurality of packaged groups of articles;
• Figure 24 is a side view of a packaging apparatus showing various stages of operation of separation devices according to the embodiment of Figure 20;
• Figure 26 is an enlarged perspective view from above of a portion of the packaging apparatus of Figure 25.
• the terms “carton” and “carrier'’ refer, for the non-limiting purpose of illustrating the various features of the invention, to a container for engaging and carrying articles, such as primary product containers. It is contemplated that the teachings of the invention can be applied to various product containers, which may or may not be tapered and/or cylindrical Exemplary containers include bottles (for example metallic, glass or plastics bottles), cans (for example aluminium cans), tins, pouches, packets and the like.
• the blanks 10; 110; 310; 410A-B are formed from a sheet of suitable substrate.
• suitable substrate includes all manner of foldable sheet material such as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, and the like. It should be recognised that one or other numbers of blanks may be employed, where suitable, for example, to provide the carrier structure described in more detail below.
• the surface of the sheet material that faces inwardly may, on the other hand, be provided with a coating, a layer, a treatmentor be otherwise prepared to provide properties such as one or more of tear-resistance, good glue-ability, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties.
• the embodiments illustrated in Figures 1 to 6 the blanks 10; 110; 310 are configured to accommodate beverage cans of the sleek or slim design that may be 330ml cans.
• the articles B are substantially of the same diameter over their entire height.
• An exemplary article B has a maximum diameter or lateral dimension (the diameter may be about 2.25inches or about 58mm).
• the article B comprises an upper portion or top closure which has a diameter or lateral dimension (the diameter may be about 2.125inches or 54.8mm).
• the neck may provide an outwardly projecting flange, that is to say it may comprise an undercut for engaging with the carrier.
• a top closure may be attached to the side wall of the article B to form a seam or “chime” which provides the flange.
• the variation in diameter between the top closure and the main body of the article B is less than 7mm, may be less than 5mm and optionally is less than 4mm.
• the terms “sleek” or “slim” refer to articles B which have little or no variation in their lateral dimension between the top closure which engages with the carrier 90; 190; 390 and the main body of the article B.
• the articles B are substantially parallel sided or of substantially uniform diameter.
• FIG. 1 there is shown a blank 10 comprising a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, including a main panel 12 for forming a top wall or an engaging panel of a carrier 90 (see Figure 2).
• the blank 10 includes a first end panel 14 hingedly connected to a first end of the main panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 13.
• the blank 10 includes a second end panel 16 hingedly connected to a second side of the main panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 15.
• the blank 10 includes a first side panel 18 hingedly connected to a first side of the main panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 17.
• the blank 10 includes a second side panel 20 hingedly connected to a second side of the main panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 19.
• the first article retention structure RT 1 may comprise at least one tab 42, 44.
• the illustrated embodiment comprises a pair of tabs 42, 44.
• the tabs 42, 44 are located orthogonally to each other about the perimeter of the opening.
• the tabs 42, 44 may engage an article received in first article retention structure RT 1 , the tabs 42, 44 do not support or bear the load (or part thereof) of the article B.
• the full teeth 50a may have a radial height dimension which is constant over an arc or sector which they define.
• the hinged connection of each full tooth 50a may define a portion of a circle.
• Each group of teeth 50a, 50b, 50c is hinged to the main panel 12 by a hinged connection
• the hinged connection is non-circular in shape, and may be defined by a portion of a squircle, truncated circle, flattened circle or rounded square. The shape may be or approximate a superellipse or hyperellipse.
• the fold line 13 hinging the first end panel 14 to the main panel 12 is non-linear and may be curvilinear or arcuate.
• the fold line 13 hinging the first end panel 14 to the main panel 12 extends substantially between a pair of adjacently disposed first article retention structures RT1.
• the fold line 13 defines a convex hinged portion when viewed from an external viewpoint.
• the fold line 15 hinging the second end panel 16 to the main panel 12 is non-linear and may be curvilinear or arcuate.
• the fold line 15 hinging the second end panel 16 to the main panel 12 extends substantially between a pair of adjacently disposed first article retention structures RT 1 .
• the fold line 15 defines a convex hinged portion when viewed from an external viewpoint.
• the fold line 17 hinging the first side panel 18 to the main panel 12 is non-linear and may be curvilinear or arcuate.
• the fold line 17 hinging the first side panel 18 to the main panel 12 comprises plurality of curvilinear portions extending substantially between pairs of adjacently disposed article retention structures RT1, RT2.
• the fold line 17 defines a plurality of convex hinged portions when viewed from an external viewpoint.
• the fold line 19 hinging the second side panel 20 to the main panel 12 is non-linear and may be curvilinear or arcuate.
• the fold line 19 hinging the second side panel 20 to the main panel 12 comprises plurality of curvilinear portions extending substantially between pairs of adjacently disposed article retention structures RT1, RT2.
• the fold line 19 defines a plurality of convex hinged portions when viewed from an external viewpoint.
• Each curvilinear hinged portion extends substantially between a pair of tabs 42, 44.
• Each curved fold line 13, 15, 17, 19 curves towards and terminates at, or in close proximity to, a curvilinear hinged connection between a group of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c; 50a, 50b, 50c.
• Each curved fold line 13, 15, 17, 19 and/or curvilinear hinged connection between a group of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c; 50a, 50b, 50c terminates at, or in close proximity to, an end of a cut line defining a tab 42, 44.
• the fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 are defined by a plurality of spaced apart cut lines.
• the curvilinear hinged connection between groups of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c; 50a, 50b, 50c and the main panel 12 is defined by a plurality of spaced apart circumferential cut lines 43, 45, 53, 55.
• a notional extension of the endmost or terminal cutline defining the fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 intersects or converges with a notional extension of the endmost or terminal cutline defining the curvilinear hinged connection between groups of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c; 50a, 50b, 50c and the main panel 12; in the illustrated embodiment, this is provided by one of the second circumferential outlines 45, 55.
• Each curved fold line 13, 15, 17, 19 converges with a respective curvilinear hinged connection between a group of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c; 50a, 50b, 50c at, or in close proximity to, a tab 42, 44, and may converge at an end of a cut line defining said tab 42, 44.
• This may provide the benefit of directing load forces or stresses onto the side wall of the article B so as to increase the structural integrity or rigidity of the carrier 90; and may be particularly advantageous for impact forces directed at ends or sides of the carrier 90.
• Fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 are non-linear such that at least one end portion thereof is curved toward an adjacent annular fold line about one of the article retention structures RT1 , RT2 where the annular fold line is defined by the plurality of circumferential cut lines 43, 45, 53, 55.
• Fold lines 17, 19 are curved such a first distance d1 between a terminal end of the fold lines 17, 19 and a second notional line Y-Y oriented longitudinally of the blank 10 and passing through the centres of receiving apertures A1, A2 is less than a second distance d2 where second distance d2 is the maximum distance between the line Y-Y and the respective fold line 17, 19. It will be appreciated that the fold lines 13, 15 are similarly arranged with respect to a first notional line X-X oriented transversely of the blank 10 and passing through the centres of receiving apertures A1
• the handle structure H comprises a handle or finger opening disposed on a longitudinal axis bisecting the main panel 12.
• the handle opening lies, at least in part, between a first column of article retention structures RT1, RT2 and a second column of article retention structures RT1 , RT2.
• the pair of major tabs 60 are separated from each other by a first cut line or severable line.
• the pair of minor tabs 62 are separated from each other by the first cut line or severable line.
• One of the pair of major tabs 60 is hinged to the main panel 12 by a first fold line.
• the other one of the pair of major tabs 60 is hinged to the main panel 12 by a second fold line.
• the first fold line is divergently arranged with respect to the second fold line.
• a second stabilisation device M is disposed between a second group of four article retention structures RT1, RT2 located proximate a second or trailing end edge of the blank 10 and may be disposed centrally between said group of article retention structures RT1, RT2
• the stabilisation devices M are configured to receive an abutment peg or dog (described in further detail below).
• the opening of the stabilisation devices M may be non-circular in shape, and may be substantially square or diamond shaped.
• the opening may be defined by at least one tab 94 struck from the main panel 12 and hingedly connected thereto.
• the opening is defined by a pair of tabs each struck from the main panel 12 and hingedly connected to the main panel 12 in opposition to each other
• the pair of tabs 94 may be separated from each other by a cut or severable line 95.
• the stabilisation devices M may be arranged to provide an additional handle opening.
• the stabilisation devices M are generally too small in dimension to accept a finger or portion of a user’s finger. This may be advantageous in that a greater amount of substrate material is provided in the main panel 12 between the stabilisation devices M and the openings of article retention structures RT1, RT2, whereby improving the robustness and integrity of the article carrier 90.
• the handle opening may be configured for use as a stabilization device.
• a peg or dog may be provided for engaging the blank 10 via the handle opening to prevent or inhibit linear or rotation movement of the blank 10 with respect to the dog.
• the dog may be mounted to, or integral with, an applicator device, described in more detail below, for applying the blank 10 to a group of articles B
• the opening of the stabilization device or handle opening may comprise at least one flat or linear portion for engaging a complementary flat or linear portion of the dog.
• the stabilization device or handle opening may comprise at least one generally “V” or “U” shaped portion for engaging a complementary portion of the dog.
• the blank 10 is assembled about a group of articles B.
• the main panel 12 of the blank 10 is applied to the group of articles B.
• the main panel 12 is lowered with respect to the articles B.
• Each of the retention structures RT1, RT2 receives one of the articles B.
• the blank 10 is folded, about fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19, about the sides and ends of the article group to bring the side and end panels into face-to-face relationship therewith.
• the tabs 42, 44 are folded about side walls of a respective article B.
• the tabs 42, 44 remain substantially coplanar with the side or end panel 14, 16, 18, 20 from which they extend.
• An inner face of the tabs 43, 44 abut a side wall, rim or chime of the articles B.
• Figure 2 shows the assembled carrier 90, the tabs 42, 44 abut side walls of the articles B encouraging the side and end panels 14, 16, 18, 20 into a folded condition.
• the corner regions 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d of the main panel 12 adopt a non-coplanar arrangement with the main panel 12.
• the corner regions 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d are inclined upwardly as they extend outwardly due to the convergent nature of the fold line pairs 13a/1 a; 13b/19a; 15a/17b; 15b/19b. This may be beneficial to impart additional strength or rigidity to the carrier 90 and reduce the likelihood of deformation when the carrier 90 is wrapped in a sheet or film of material such as, but not limited to heat or shrink wrap
• each of the curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 couples or joins with the curvilinear hinged connection between an adjacent group of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c; 50a, 50b, 50c and the main panel 12.
• the curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 and curvilinear hinged connection may define or form convergent folds or creases in the substrate forming the carrier 90.
• each of the curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 may be coupled or joined to an adjacent curvilinear hinged connection by a third fold or crease.
• the curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 and curvilinear hinged connection meet or join in a location disposed in close proximity to an article B.
• the curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 have the effect of encouraging the side and/or end walls 14, 16, 18, 20 to bow outwardly -to be convex when viewed from an external vantage point- in regions between a pair of adjacent articles B
• the curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 have the effect of encouraging the main panel 12 to bow downwardly -to be concave when viewed from an external vantage point above the main panel 112- in regions between a pair of adjacent articles B.
• the side and/or end walls 14, 16, 18, 20 may be substantially planar.
• FIG. 3 and 4 there is shown an alternative blank for use in the packaging system of the present disclosure.
• like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix “100” to indicate that these features belong to the second embodiment.
• the alternative embodiment shares many common features with the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2, therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 will be described in any greater detail.
• Figure 3 shows a blank 110 comprising a plurality of panels 112, 114A, 214B, 116A, 116B, 118, 120, including a main panel 112 for forming a top wall or engaging panel of a carrier 190 (see Figure 4).
• the article retention structures RT1 , RT2 of Figure 3 are substantially similar to those of Figure 1 albeit the tabs 142, 144, 154 are smaller in height dimension relative to the teeth 140 than the tabs 42, 44, 54 of Figure 1.
• a first side panel 118 is hingedly connected to a first side of the main panel 112 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 117.
• a second side panel 120 is hingedly connected to a second side of the main panel 112 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 119.
• the blank 110 comprises a first end structure.
• the first end structure comprises a first upper end panel 114A hingedly connected to a first end of the main panel 112 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 113A.
• a first lower end panel 114B is hingedly connected to the first upper end panel 114A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 113B.
• the first end structure comprises a first securing panel 164A hingedly connected to the first corner panel 160A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 163A
• a second securing panel 164B is hingedly connected to the second corner panel 160B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 163B.
• a first web panel 168A is hingedly connected at one end to the first securing panel 164A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 169A and is hingedly connected at a second end to the first upper end panel 114A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 171 A.
• the second end structure comprises a third corner panel 162A hingedly connected to a second end of the first side panel 118 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 165A.
• a fourth corner panel 162B is hingedly connected to a second end of the second side panel 120 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 165B.
• the first end structure comprises a third securing panel 166A hingedly connected to the third corner panel 162A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 167A
• a fourth securing panel 166B is hingedly connected to the fourth corner panel 162B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 167B.
• the second flap 176 may comprise a pair of wing portions 178A, 178B hingedly connected by a respective fold line 178A, 178B to a central portion of the second flap 176.
• the fold lines 179A, 179B may be divergently arranged with respect to each other, the fold lines 179A, 179B diverge towards the second lower end panel 116B.
• Each of the third and fourth securing panels 166A, 166B comprises a cutaway in the form of an aperture A5.
• Each aperture A5 forms a second receiver for receiving a respective second locking tab or detent C2.
• the second upper end panel 116A comprises a pair of cut lines 101, each of which is substantially “U” shaped, each cut line 101 defines a respective detent C2.
• the locking structure comprises at least one locking element L for being received in the receiver RC.
• the locking element L comprises a tab 380 struck from the second top panel 320, the illustrated embodiment comprises three tabs 380 each arranged to be engageable with one of the receiver openings and a respective one of the handle openings A2
• Each tab 380 is hinged to the second top panel 320 by a hinged connection 381 .
• Each tab 380 may comprise at least one fold line.
• the tab 380 comprises a pair of fold lines.
• the pair of fold lines may be divergently arranged with respect to each other.
• Each of the pair of fold lines may be non-linear in shape for example but not limited to arcuate or curvilinear in shape.
• the nonlinear fold lines may encourage the tab 380 to return to a planar arrangement so as to increase security of the tab 380 within the receiver and the handle opening A3.
• a first anchor flap 322A is hingedly connected to a first end of the first top panel 318 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 323A.
• the first anchor flap 322A is hingedly connected to the first top end flap 326 by a pair of hinged panels 328A, 330A.
• the pair of hinged panels 328A, 330A form a gusset.
• a first connecting panel 328A is hingedly connected to the first anchor flap 322A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line.
• a second connecting panel 330A is hingedly connected to the first connecting panel 328A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line.
• the second connecting panel 330A is hingedly connected to the first top end flap 326 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line.
• a second anchor flap 322B is hingedly connected to a first end of the second top panel 320 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 323B.
• the second anchor flap 322B is hingedly connected to the first top end flap 326 by a pair of hinged panels 328B, 330B forming a second gusset.
• a third connecting panel 328B is hingedly connected to the second anchor flap 322B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line.
• a fourth connecting panel 330B is hingedly connected to the third connecting panel 328B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line.
• the fourth connecting panel 330B is hingedly connected to the first top end flap 326 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line.
• the first end panel 324 is separated from each of the first and second anchor flaps 322A, 322B by an aperture A10.
• the apertures A10 separate each of the pair of hinged panels 328A/330A, 328B/330B from the respective one of the first and second side panels 314, 316
• a second end closure structure comprises a second end panel 334 hingedly connected to a second end of the main panel 312 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 335.
• a second top end flap 336 is hingedly connected to the second end panel 334 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 337.
• a third anchor flap 332A is hingedly connected to a second end of the first top panel 318 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 333A.
• the third anchor flap 332A is hingedly connected to the second top end flap 336 by a pair of hinged panels 338A, 340A forming a third gusset
• a fifth connecting panel 338A is hingedly connected to the third anchor flap 332A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line.
• a sixth connecting panel 340A is hingedly connected to the fifth connecting panel 338A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line.
• the sixth connecting panel 340A is hingedly connected to the second top end flap 336 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line.
• a fourth anchor flap 332B is hingedly connected to a second end of the second top panel 320 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 333B.
• the fourth anchor flap 332B is hingedly connected to the second top end flap 336 by a pair of hinged panels 338B, 340B forming a fourth gusset.
• a seventh connecting panel 338B is hingedly connected to the fourth anchor flap 332B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 339B (see Figure 5B).
• An eighth connecting panel 340B is hingedly connected to the seventh connecting panel 338B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 355B.
• the eighth connecting panel 340B is hingedly connected to the second top end flap 336 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 359B.
• the blank 310 may comprise at least two alignment or registration devices W1, W2. Each of the registration devices W1, W2 takes the form of a cutaway or recess defining a registration edge of the blank 310 for receiving or engaging a reference pin (discussed in greater detail below)
• the blank 310 comprises a pair of first registration devices W1 each defining a downstream or leading registration edge.
• the blank 310 may also comprise a second pair of registration devices W2 each defining an upstream or trailing registration edge.
• Each of the cutaways or recesses defining a registration device W1 , W2 is struck from, or defined in, one of the first and second top panels 318, 320.
• the blank 310 may comprise at least one stabilisation device.
• the blank 110 comprises three stabilisation devices.
• Each stabilization device comprises an opening in at least one of the first top panel 318, second top panel 320, and the main panel 312.
• Each stabilization device may comprise an opening in at least two, or all, of the first top panel 318, second top panel 320, and the main panel 312.
• Each stabilisation device is configured to receive an abutment peg or dog (described in further detail below).
• An opening forming at least part of the stabilisation device may be non-circular in shape, and may be substantially square or diamond shaped.
• the opening or openings in the panels providing the stabilisation device may be defined by at least one tab struck from the panel in which it is formed and hingedly connected thereto.
• an opening is defined in part by a pair of tabs 370, 372 each struck from the first top panel 318 and hingedly connected to the first top panel 318 in opposition to each other.
• the pair of tabs 370, 372 may be separated from each other by a cut or severable line 377
• Each toothed region of the main panel 312 may be folded about one of the articles B received in the respective one of the article retention structures RT1, RT2.
• the main panel 312 may deform about the article B for example but not limited to a shoulder portion of the article B, where the article B is a can the shoulder portion may be provide by the neck-in.
• the blank 310 may be partially folded about fold lines 313, 315 to bring the first and second side panels 314, 316 into non-coplanar relationship with the main panel 312.
• the blank 310 is folded about fold lines 323A, 323B, 333A, 333B to fold the first, second, third and fourth anchor flaps 322A, 322B, 332A, 332B into substantially face to face relationship with the first or second side panels 314, 316 to which they are hinged.
• the blank 310 is folded about fold lines 327, 337 to fold the first and second top end flaps 326, 336 with respect to the respective one of the first and second end panels 324, 334 to which they are hinged
• the first and second top end flaps 326, 336 may be folded over an upper end of an article B or articles B disposed adjacent to the first and second ends of the main panel 312.
• the first and second top end flaps 326, 336 may be folded to be substantially parallel to the main panel 312.
• the first and second end panels 324, 334 and first and second top end flaps 326, 336 may be folded automatically in response to folding the first, second, third and fourth anchor flaps 322A, 322B, 332A, 332B into substantially face contacting relationship with the respective one of the first and second side panels 314, 316.
• the blank 310 is folded about fold lines 313, 315 to bring the first and second side panels 314, 316 into substantially perpendicular relationship with the main panel 312.
• the blank 310 is folded about fold line 317 to fold the first top panel 318 over the tops of the articles B.
• the blank 310 is folded about fold line 319 to fold the second top panel 320 over the tops of the articles B and into overlapping relationship with the first top panel 318 to form a composite top panel 318/320
• the locking tabs 380 are displaced out of the plane of the second top panel 320, downwardly so as to pass through a respective one of the receiver openings.
• the receiver tabs 392, 394, 396 displaced out of the plane of the first top panel 318 as a consequence.
• the locking tabs 380 are engaged with the first and second receiver tabs 396, 392. Shoulders of the locking tab 380 may engage not only with the perimeter of the respective handle opening A3 but also with an edge of each of the first and second receiver tabs 396, 392. The shoulders of the locking tab 380 engage with an edge of each of the first and second receiver tabs 396, 392 defined by a cutaway or recess in the free edge opposing their hinged connections 391, 393 to the first top panel 318.
• the recessed edges of the first and second receiver tabs 396, 392 prevent or inhibit disengagement of the locking tabs 380 from the locked condition with the first and second receiver tabs 396, 392
• the locking tabs 380 and the receiver tabs 396, 392 may also serve to function as a spacer between the composite top panel 318/320 and the main panel 312.
• the locking tabs 380 may engage the main panel 312 along the perimeters of the handle openings A3 and/or the lower surface of the main panel 312 and may thereby serve as tension members for maintaining a spacing between the main panel 312 and the composite top panel 318/320 so as to prevent the spacing from increasing.
• the receiver tabs 396, 392 and/or the locking tabs 380 may engage or abut with the inside or upper surface of the main panel 312 and may thereby brace between the composite top panel 318/320 and the main panel 312 to maintain a spacing therebetween so as to assist in preventing the spacing from decreasing.
• at least a portion of the locking tab 380 and/or at least a portion of one or more of the receiver tabs 396, 392 may be disposed between the first top panel 318 and the main panel 312 to maintain a spacing therebetween.
• the locking tab 380 may also provide a cushioning tab improving comfort when the package 390 is carried by inserting one or more fingers into the openings in the composite top panel 318/320 and the main panel 312.
• the first and second receiver tabs 396, 392 when folded may extend through the handle openings A3.
• the locking tabs 380 may also engage with the main panel 312, passing through a respective one of the handle openings A3.
• the shoulders of the locking tab 380 may engage with an underside of the main panel 312; the underside being a second side of the main panel 312 opposing a first side through which the locking tab 380 was received
• the third tab 394 may provide a biasing mechanism.
• the third tab 394 has natural or inherent tendency to return to the unfolded condition. This may provide, or supplement, the resilient bias of the locking tab 380 to return to an unfolded condition.
• the third tab 394 encourages the locking tabs 380 towards an end stop defined by the recessed edge of the first and second receiver tabs 396, 392. The end stop inhibits or prevents the locking tab 380 from returning to the unfolded condition.
• Figures 7 to 12 illustrate embodiments of a packaging apparatus 400, 500, 600 forming part of a packaging machine for assembling the blanks 10; 110; 310 of Figures 1 to 6 about a group of articles B.
• Figures 7 to 10 show views of a packaging apparatus 400 adapted to assemble the blank 110 of Figure 3.
• Figure 11 shows a view of a packaging apparatus 500 adapted to assemble the blank 310 of Figure 5.
• Figure 12 shows a view of a packaging apparatus 600 adapted to assemble the blank 10 of Figure 1 .
• a packaging apparatus 400 comprising a grouping and metering apparatus and an applicator 420 for applying the blank 110 to a metered group of articles (not shown in Figure 7, Figure 8 shows the articles B, and Figure 9 shows the position of the articles B in phantom lines).
• the metering apparatus comprises a first plurality of article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 for engaging, metering, and driving a first column of articles B through the packaging apparatus 400.
• the metering apparatus comprises a second plurality of article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 for engaging, metering, and driving a second column of articles B through the packaging apparatus 400.
• the second plurality of article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 is arranged in opposition to the first plurality of article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434.
• Each of the article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 is coupled to, or comprises, a drive mechanism to propel each of the first and second plurality of article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 about a respective track or loop.
• Each of the article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 is coupled to, or mounted to, a track a respective track or loop (not shown) having a working reach and a return reach.
• the article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 may comprise a magnet (not shown) for holding the article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 to the track.
• the track comprises a drive mechanism for driving the article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 about the track.
• the drive mechanism may take the form of a linear motor.
• a stator comprising coils is mounted to the track and generates propulsive force by acting upon the magnet to drive the article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 about the track.
• Each of the article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 can be independently or individually controlled, In this way, the pitch between article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 can be varied and the article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 can be individually accelerated or decelerated.
• only one of the trailing pair of article engaging tools 432A and one of the leading pair of article engaging tools 432B may comprise a reference pin 440; said reference pins 440 being disposed on diagonally opposed ones of the trailing pair of article engaging tools 432A and leading pair of article engaging tools 432B.
• FIG 11 shows a view of a packaging apparatus 500 adapted to assemble the blank 310 of Figure 5.
• the packaging apparatus 500 comprises heads 542 which have been adapted to accommodate the blank 310.
• the heads 542 comprise reference pins 540 which are disposed further from the engaging surface 543 of the head 542 than those of the head 442 of the embodiment of Figures 7 to 10.
• the securing mechanism 544 is disposed between the engaging surface 543 of the head 542 and the reference pin 540.
• the reference pin 440 is disposed between the securing mechanism 444 and the engaging surface 443 of the head 442.
• the heads 542 of Figure 11 and the heads 442 of Figures 7 to 10 may be interchangeable, that is to say the head may be selected depending upon the blank being packaged.
• the carriage 448 and the carriage 548 may be substantially similar such that either head 542 or head 442 can be mounted thereto.
• FIG. 12 there is shown a view of a packaging apparatus 600 adapted to assemble the blank 10 of Figure 1.
• the applicator 620 comprises a pair of first stabilising pegs or pins 650 adapted to be received in the opening of the stabilisation devices M.
• the applicator 620 comprises an optional second stabilising peg or pin 654 adapted to be received in the handle opening of the handle structure H.
• the second stabilising peg 654 is shaped and dimensioned to fit the handle opening and may be wider, or larger in diameter, than the first stabilising pegs 650.
• the pair of first stabilising pegs or pins 650 may be omitted and only the second stabilising peg or pin 654 may be provided, the second stabilising peg or pin 654 may be shaped to prevent or inhibit rotation of the blank with respect to the applicator 620 when the second stabilising peg or pin 654 is received in a stabilising device provided by the blank 10.
• the applicator 620 comprises one or more first folding dies or brakes depending from the lower or engaging surface of the plate.
• the folding dies or brakes effect folding of the side panels 18, 20 with respect to the main or engaging panel 12.
• the applicator 620 comprises one or more second folding dies or brakes 652C, 652C depending from the lower or engaging surface of the plate
• the folding dies or brakes effect folding of the end panels 14, 16 with respect to the main or engaging panel 12.
• the applicator 620 is mounted to an overhead wheel which is adapted to maintain the orientation of the applicator 620 with respect to a conveyor (not shown).
• the applicator 620 is maintained substantially parallel with the conveyor, such that the engaging surface of the plate faces towards the articles B and/or conveyor throughout the rotation of the overhead wheel
• FIG. 13 to 19 there is shown alternative embodiments of a packaging system, article carriers and blanks, apparatus and applicators of the present disclosure.
• the alternative embodiments share many common features with the embodiments of Figures 1 to 12, therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 12 will be described in any greater detail.
• FIG 13 there is shown a plan view of a pair of connected blanks 401 each of which is capable of forming a carton or carrier 490, as shown in Figure 17, for containing and carrying a group of primary products such as, but not limited to, bottles or cans, hereinafter referred to as articles B, as shown in Figure 17.
• each blank 410A, 410B is configured to form a carton or carrier 490 for packaging an exemplary arrangements of exemplary articles B.
• each blank 410A, 410B is configured to package article in a 2 x 2 matrix or array arrangement -two rows of two articles B are provided- and the articles B are beverage cans
• the blanks 410A, 410B may be configured to form a carrier for packaging other types, number and size of articles and/or for packaging articles in a different arrangement or configuration.
• FIG. 13 there is shown a pair of connected blanks 401 comprising a first blank 410A and a second blank 410B.
• the second blank 410B is severable or frangibly connected to the first blank 410A by a frangible connection 413
• Each of the blanks 410A, 410B comprises a main or engaging panel 412 for forming a top wall or an engaging panel of a carrier 490.
• the frangible connection 413 may take the form of a plurality of cutlines spaced apart to define connecting nick or bridge portions N1 , N2, N3, N4 therebetween.
• the bridge portions N1 , N2, N3, N4 couple the first blank 410A to the second blank 410B.
• the frangible connection 413 comprises four connecting nick or bridge portions N1 , N2, N3, N4 arranged in pairs N1/N2, N3/N4.
• a first pair of connecting nicks N1/N2 is disposed between a first article retention structure RT in the first blank 410A and a second article retention structure RT in the second blank 410B.
• the second article retention structure RT is disposed adjacent to the first article retention structure RT and each lies upon a notional longitudinal line or axis x-x, the longitudinal line or axis x-x passing through the centre of each of the first and second article retention structures RT.
• the first pair of connecting nicks N1/N2 are disposed on opposite sides of the longitudinal line x-x
• the longitudinal line x-x may define or pass through a region of closest proximity between an article B received in the first blank 410A and an article B received in the second blank 410B.
• the frangible connection 413 comprises a second pair of connecting nicks N3/N4 disposed between a third article retention structure RT in the first blank 410A and a fourth article retention structure RT in the second blank 410B.
• the second pair of connecting nicks N3/N4 are disposed on opposing sides of a notional line (not shown) extending longitudinally of the pair of connected blanks 401 and passing through the centres of each of the third and fourth article retention structures RT.
• the main panels 412 include at least one article retention structure RT.
• the main panels 412 each comprise a plurality of article retention structures RT specifically four article retention structures RT arranged in 2 x 2 matrix or array.
• Each of the main panels 412 comprises two columns of article retention structures RT, each column comprises two article retention structures RT.
• Each of the article retention structures RT comprises an aperture A1
• Each of the article retention structures RT is substantially similar in construction and will therefore be described in detail with reference to a first one of the article retention structures RT located adjacent to a first end of the second blank 410B as shown in Figure 13.
• the article retention structure RT comprises an article receiving opening defined in part by an aperture A1.
• the article retention structure RT comprises a plurality of engaging teeth 440 disposed about the aperture A1 .
• the plurality of teeth 440 are hinged to the main panel 412 by a fold line.
• the fold line may be defined by a plurality of cut lines 443, 445.
• the plurality of cut lines 443, 445 may define or approximate a circle.
• Each of the plurality of teeth 440 comprises an engaging edge E1 opposing a hinged edge.
• the engaging edges E1 are defined by a linear portion of a cut line defining the aperture A1 .
• Each engaging edge E1 defines a part of a polygon.
• the illustrated embodiment comprises sixteen teeth 440.
• Each tooth 440 comprises a pair of side edges, the side edges are defined by cut lines 441 extending radially outward from respective vertices of the polygon. That is to say from a respective vertex between a pair of adjacent linear portions of the cut line defining the aperture A1.
• the cut lines 441 are divergently arranged with respect to each other and define an angle therebetween, the angle may be about 22.5°.
• the article retention structure RT may comprise a plurality of first circumferential cut lines 443.
• Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 443 is aligned with one of the radial cut lines 441 such that said one of the radial cut lines 441 or a notional extension thereof bisects a respective one of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 443.
• Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 443 is spaced apart from said one of the radial cut lines 441 bisecting it so as to define a connecting nick or bridge portion between a pair of adjacently disposed teeth 440.
• Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 443 may be linear in shape.
• the article retention structure RT may comprise a plurality of second circumferential cut lines 445.
• Each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 445 is disposed between a pair of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 443 and is spaced apart therefrom so as to define a pair of connecting nick or bridge portions between each tooth 440 and the main panel 412
• the pair of connecting nick or bridge portions provide a hinged or foldable connection between each tooth 440 and the main panel 412
• Each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 445 may be linear in shape. In alternative embodiments, each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 443 may be arcuate or curved. In alternative embodiments, each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 445 may be arcuate or curved.
• the radius of curvature of each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 445 is equal to the radius of curvature of each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 443 however in other embodiments it may be different.
• the blanks 410A, 41 OB comprise a handle structure H.
• the handle structure H comprises a handle or finger opening disposed on a longitudinal axis bisecting the main panel 412
• the handle opening is provided between a group of four article retention structures RT.
• the handle opening is provided centrally or medially of the main panel 412.
• Each handle opening is defined by a plurality of tabs 460, 462.
• the handle openings comprise four tabs 460, 462.
• Each tab 460, 462 is hinged to the main panel 412 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line.
• An arcuate or curvilinear cut line may be provided between each fold line to define a corner or vertex of the handle opening.
• the handle openings are substantially rhombus or diamond shaped, in other embodiments other shapes may be employed such as, but not limited to square
• the handle openings comprise a pair of major tabs 460 and a pair of minor tabs 462.
• the handle openings may form a stabilisation device during application of the blanks 410A, 410B to a group of articles B.
• the stabilisation devices are configured to receive an abutment peg or dog (described in further detail below).
• the disconnecting device BL severs or cleaves the connecting nicks or bridge portions N1, N2, N3, N4 thereby separating the first and second blanks 410A, 410B from each other.
• a third blade BL3 is shown in Figure 18, the third blade BL3 is substantially similar to the second blade BL2 albeit the pair of breaking edges CE1 , CE2 are arranged such that a smaller internal angle is defined therebetween.
• a fourth blade BL4 is shown in Figure 18, the fourth blade BL4 is substantially similar to the second and third blades BL2, BL3 albeit the pair of breaking edges CE1 , CE2 are arranged such that a smaller internal angle is defined therebetween.
• each of the pair of breaking edges CE1 , CE2 comprises a marginal portion arranged substantially parallel with the mounting edge ME.
• a fifth blade BL5 is shown in Figure 18, the fifth blade BL5 comprises a recess, scalloped or serrated breaking edge.
• the fifth blade BL5 comprises four divergently arranged breaking edges CE1 , CE2, CE3, CE4.
• a first breaking edge CE1 and a second breaking edge CE2 are divergently arranged with respect each other to form a point or vertex substantially at a centre or medial region of the fifth blade BL5.
• Third and fourth breaking edges CE3, CE4 are provided at marginal regions of the fifth blade BL5.
• the third breaking edge CE3 is divergently arranged with respect to the first breaking edge CE1 to define a recess R therebetween.
• the fourth breaking edge CE4 is divergently arranged with respect to the second breaking edge CE2 to define a recess R therebetween.
• the fifth blade BL5 may be considered to have a plurality of breaking edges or blades CE1 , CE2, CE3, CE4 mounted to a common base or mounting body.
• the fifth blade BL5 may be advantageous when separating a pair of blanks 410A, 41 OB in which the articles B in a first group being engaged by the first blank 410A are in contact or close proximity to the articles B in a second group being engaged by the second blank 41 OB.
• the recesses R avoid a region of contact or close proximity between pairs or cylindrical articles B. In this way, the fifth blade BL5 avoids contact or impact with the articles B.
• the packaging apparatus configured to automate application of the pair of connected blanks 401 to groups of articles B.
• the packaging apparatus comprises a plurality of tool heads 702 mounted to an overhead wheel arrangement 754.
• the overhead wheel arrangement 754 is adapted to maintain the orientation of an applicator 720 with respect to a conveyor 753.
• the applicator 720 is shown in a cutaway view, as indicated by hatching, for illustrative purposes to illustrate posts P1 , P2 mounted thereto.
• the applicator 720 is maintained substantially parallel with the conveyor 753, such that the engaging surface of the plate 450 faces towards the articles B and/or conveyor throughout the rotation of the overhead wheel.
• the applicator 720 is moveably mounted to the tool head 702, and is resiliently biased towards the conveyor 753 by spring mounts 758 depending from a mounting plate 756.
• the packaging apparatus comprises a grouping and metering apparatus and an overhead applicator for applying the pair of connected blanks 410 to metered groups of articles B.
• the metering apparatus comprises a first plurality of article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 for engaging, metering, and driving a first column of articles B through the packaging apparatus.
• the metering apparatus comprises a second plurality of article engaging tools (not illustrated in Figure 19), configured in a similar manner to those shown in the embodiments of Figures 7 to 11 for engaging, metering, and driving a second column of articles B through the packaging apparatus.
• the second plurality of article engaging tools is arranged in opposition to the first plurality of article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734.
• Each of the article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 can be independently or individually controlled, In this way, the pitch between article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 can be varied and the article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 can be individually accelerated or decelerated.
• Each article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 in the first plurality of article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 is driven in synchronicity with a respective one of the article engaging tools in the second plurality of article engaging tools, at least through a working reach of the packaging apparatus.
• the packaging apparatus may merge a first stream of articles B with a second stream of articles B, the first plurality of article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 engaging articles from the first stream and the second plurality of article engaging tools engaging articles from the second stream.
• Each article engaging tool 732A, 732B, 734 comprises a carriage having at least one wheel or follower 746, in some embodiments two, three, four or more wheels or followers 746 may be provided on each carriage and engage with the track
• Each carriage comprises a head detachably mounted thereto by a securing mechanism.
• the lock mechanism may take the form of a bayonet style fitting or mount In this way, the head is readily separated from the carriage and may be interchanged, swapped or replaced. This allows the head to be changed for a different head to accommodate a different carton blank or article B or to enable replacement of a damaged or broken head.
• Each of the heads comprises a gripper or scoop providing at least one engaging surface for engaging an article B.
• the gripper comprises a pair of fingers or limbs defining a recess or channel arranged to accommodate a portion of the article B.
• Each of the heads may comprise a reference pin or post 740 extending upwardly therefrom.
• the reference pin 740 is mounted to the head at a first proximal end and extends upwardly to a distal free end. The distal free end is disposed at an elevation above the upper end of the articles B In this way, the reference pin 740 is configured to engage with the pair of connected blanks 401 when placed upon the upper ends of the articles B in the groups of articles B.
• the heads forming leading and trailing article engaging tools 732A, 732B may comprise a first reference pin or post 740.
• the heads forming intermediate article engaging tools 734 may comprise an optional second reference pin or post.
• the second reference pin or post may be offset, in a direction transverse to the article flow direction F, with respect to the first reference pins 740 provided by the leading and trailing article engaging tools 732A, 732B.
• the reference pin 740 is arranged to be located between a leading portion of the head and a trailing portion of the head.
• the reference pin 740 is located upstream of a downstream end, edge or wall of the article B engaged by the head to which it is mounted and the reference pin 740 is located downstream of an upstream end, edge or wall of the article B engaged by said head.
• the reference pin 740 may be disposed within the footprint of the carriage and/or head. In this way, two adjacent carriages or head can be brought into close proximity without interference by the reference pin 740 or its mounting. This enables two or more article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 to bring two or more articles B into close proximity or to engage two or more articles B which are disposed in close proximity.
• pairs of article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 bring together pairs of articles B, one from each of the first and second columns or streams of articles B.
• Two or more pairs of article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 may be employed to form a at least two groups of articles B, in the illustrated embodiment, four pairs of article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 form two groups of four articles B each in a 2 x 2 matrix or array.
• the leading pair of article engaging tools 732B may be retarded to allow the intermediate pairs of article engaging tools 734, and the trailing pair of article engaging tools 732A to catch up with the pair of article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 disposed downstream thereof.
• At least a first pair of intermediate article engaging tools 734 catches up with the leading pair of article engaging tools 732B
• at least a second pair of intermediate article engaging tools 734 follows a predefined distance behind the at least first pair of intermediate article engaging tools 734
• the trailing pair of article engaging tools 732A catches up with the at least second pair of intermediate article engaging tools 734.
• the connected blanks 401 are lowered onto the upper ends of the articles B forming the groups.
• the overhead wheel arrangement brings the applicator 720 into contact with the connected blanks 401 substantially similarly to the applicator AP of Figure 14 to 17 to applying the blanks 410A, 410B to the articles B
• Each stabilisation peg P1 , P2 is received in a handle or finger opening provided in the main panel 412 of each connected article carriers 491.
• the stabilisation pegs P1 , P2 prevent or prevent or inhibit movement of the connected article carriers 491 whilst the separator SP divides the connected article carriers 491 into individual, discrete, disconnected, article carriers 491 .
• Each stabilisation pegs P1 , P2 comprises a fixture 811 mounting the stabilisation peg P1, P2 to the plate 850.
• the fixture 811 is received in a mounting orifice MAI, MA2 provided in a lower or inner surface of the plate 850.
• the mounting orifice MAI, MA2 and the fixture 811 may be shaped as to be coded or keyed to a specific mounting location or orientation.
• first post P1 is shaped to be mounted in first mounting orifice MAI and second post P1 is shaped to be mounted in second mounting orifice MA2; or each post P1 , P2 is mounted in a predefined orientation with respect to the plate 850.
• Each article engaging tool 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B is mounted to, or comprises, a carriage (not shown in Figures 25 and 26, but substantially similar to the carriages 448 of Figures 7 to 12).
• an inclined or tapered transition region may be provided between the main body Mb and the pin 1440, this may prevent or inhibit snagging, or catching, of the blanks 401 on the first reference head H1 .
• the first reference head H1 is configured to engage a side edge of the blanks 401 to align the blanks 401 in direction transverse to the direction of travel F.
• the second reference head H2 is substantially similar in construction to the first reference head H1 albeit with the addition of an annular or disc shaped protrusion forming a flange 1449 between the main body Mb and the pin 1440.
• the flange 1449 provides an upward facing ledge upon which one of the blanks 401 may rest
• the second reference head H2 is arranged such that the flange 1449 is below a corner region of the blanks 401.
• the blanks 401 comprise rounded, filleted, or chamfered corners at each end thereof, the flange 1449 is disposed below the filleted endmost corners so as to support or engage a corner of one of the blanks 401 when applied to the articles by the applicator 420. In this way, the flange 1449 prevents or inhibits undesirable deformation or creasing of the blanks 401 during application to the articles.
• a lower surface of the flange 1449 may be inclined or tapered to provide a transition region between the flange 1449 and the pin 1440, this may prevent or inhibit snagging, or catching, of the blanks 401 on the second reference head H2
• the second reference head H2 is configured to engage rounded, filleted, or chamfered corners at each end of the pair of blanks 410A, 410B to align the blanks 401 in direction transverse and or parallel to the direction of travel F with respect to the articles.
• the heads 1442 forming intermediate article engaging tools 1434A, 1434B may comprise an optional third pin or post 1440.
• the third pin or post 1440 comprises a third head H3.
• a leading or downstream one 1434B of the intermediate article engaging tools 1434A, 1434B comprises a pin 1440 having a third head H3 mounted to a trailing region of the gripper or scoop 1443.
• a trailing or upstream one 1434A of the intermediate article engaging tools 1434A, 1434B comprises a pin 1440 having a third head H3 mounted to a leading region of the gripper or scoop 1443; In this way, the trailing intermediate article engaging tool 1434A is a mirror image of the leading intermediate article engaging tool 1434B.
• the third pins or posts 1440 are mounted to primary or inner pin mounts of the head 1442.
• the intermediate article engaging tools 1434A, 1434B may comprise optional pin mounts PM (also referred to herein as outer pin mounts PM), the pin mounts PM are adapted to receive a pin 1440 which may have one of the heads H1, H2, H3 mounted thereto.
• the outer pin mounts PM are arranged such that when mounted thereto the pins 1440 are laterally offset with respect to the first and second pins 1440 of the leading and trailing article engaging tools 1432A, 1432B.
• the outer pin mounts PM are arranged to be laterally offset with respect to the primary or inner pin mounts of the intermediate article engaging tools 1434A, 1434B.
• the optional pin mounts PM are offset in a direction transverse to the direction of travel F.
• the pins 1440 when mounted to the optional pin mount P of an intermediate article engaging tools 1434A, 1434B in the first plurality of article engaging tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B and to the optional pin mount PM of an intermediate article engaging tools 1434A, 1434B in the second plurality of article engaging tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B are spaced apart by a distance which is greater than when the third pins are mounted to the primary or inner pin mounts of the intermediate article engaging tools 1434A, 1434B
• Third pins 1440, optionally with one of the heads H1 , H2, H3 mounted thereto, may be mounted in the optional pin mounts PM instead or in addition to the primary or inner pin mounts of the head 1442.
• the optional pin mounts PM may be employed when applying blanks of alternative carriers to at least one article group.
• the third head H3 comprises, or takes the form of, a disc or platform 1447 mounted to the upper end of the pin 1440 to provide a support surface for engaging a portion of one of the blanks 401.
• the blanks 401 comprise rounded, filleted, or chamfered corners at or proximate a frangible connection 413 between a pair of blanks 410A, 410B, a platform 1447 is disposed below the filleted inner corner of each blank 410A, 410B so as to support or engage the corners of each of the pair of blanks 410A, 410B when applied to the articles by the applicator 420. In this way, the platform 1447 prevents or inhibits undesirable deformation or creasing of the blanks 401 during application to the articles.
• pairs of article engaging tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B bring together pairs of articles, one from each of the first and second columns or streams of articles B.
• Two or more pairs of article engaging tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B may be employed to form a group of articles, in the illustrated embodiment four pairs of article engaging tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B form two groups each of four articles in a 2 x 2 matrix or array.
• the leading pair of article engaging tools 1432B may be retarded to allow the intermediate pairs of article engaging tools 1434A, 1434B, and the trailing pair of article engaging tools 1432A to catch up with the pair of article engaging tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B disposed downstream thereof
• the leading pair of article engaging tools 1432B, 1434A, 1434B may be retarded to match the speed of said downstream pair.
• speed of an upstream pair of article engaging tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B may be increased or accelerated to catch an adjacent downstream pair of article engaging tools 1432A, 1432B, 1434A, 1434B.
• the blanks 401 are lowered or fed from above by an overhead conveyor (not shown) and are moved in the downstream direction with the articles, leading registration edges provided by the pair of leading corners of the leading blank 410A, are brought into contact with the reference body Mb of the second head H2 mounted to the leading pins 1440 of respective ones of the leading pair of article engaging tools 1432B.
• the packaging apparatus 1400 comprises an applicator 420 for effecting application of the main or engaging panel 412 of the blanks 401 to the articles.
• the applicator 420; 520; 620; 720; AP may comprise one or more folding dies or brakes each folding a panel hinged to the main panel 12; 112; 312; 412 at least partially about the group of articles B, said panel may comprise the registration edge.
• the method comprises engaging at least one leading registration edge of the blank 10; 110; 310; 410A-B with a reference pin 440; 540; 640; 740 mounted to a leading article engaging tool 432A, 432B, 434; 532A, 532B, 534; 632A, 632B, 634; 732A, 732B, 734.
• the present disclosure provides a carrier 490 of the top engaging type having article retention structures RT, RT1, RT2 for engaging articles B and a blank 410A-B for forming the article carrier 490.
• the present disclosure provides a plurality of connected blanks 401 which can be simultaneously applied to a plurality of groups of articles B.
• Each of the blanks 410A-B in a plurality of connected blanks 401 is frangibly connected to at least one other blank 410A-B.
• the plurality of article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 may be configured to form metered groups of articles B and align a plurality of connected blanks 401 therewith.
• the articles B may be formed into the metered groups and simultaneously aligned with a plurality of connected blanks 401 as it is fed onto the upper ends of the articles B.
• the plurality of connected blanks 401 may be brought into contact or alignment with an abutment pin 740 mounted to a leading or downstream one of the plurality of article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 forming the article groups.
• the plurality of connected blanks 401 may be brought into contact or alignment with an abutment pin 740 mounted to each of a pair of leading or downstream one of the plurality of article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 forming the article groups.
• the abutment pin 740 may be shaped to provide at least two points of contact with the registration edge to inhibit movement of the plurality of connected blanks 401 parallel with the direction of flow of the plurality of connected blanks 401 through the apparatus 700 and perpendicularly or laterally with respect to the direction of flow of the plurality of connected blanks 401 through the apparatus 700.
• the present disclosure provides an applicator AP; 720 for pressing the plurality of connected blanks 401 onto the groups of articles B.
• the applicator AP; 720 may comprise a plurality of article receiving orifices each for receiving a respective article B of the group.
• the applicator 720 may form part of tool head 702 mounted to an overhead wheel arrangement 754 for applying or engaging the plurality of connected blanks 401 to the groups of articles B as they are conveyed upon a conveyor in a downstream direction.
• the applicator AP; 720 comprises at least one disconnecting or separating device for breaking the frangible connections 413 between adjacently disposed blanks 410A-B.
• the at least one stabilisation peg P1, P2 prevents or inhibits movement of the plurality of connected blanks 401 with respect to the articles B in a direction parallel with the direction of flow of the plurality of connected blanks 1 through the packaging apparatus and in a lateral direction perpendicular with respect to the direction of flow of the plurality of connected blanks 401 through the packaging apparatus.
• the stabilisation peg P1, P2 may be detachably or removably mounted to the applicator AP; 720.
• the stabilisation peg P1 , P2 may be coded or keyed to a specific mounting location or orientation
• the disconnecting or separating device may comprise one or more blades CE1, CE2, CE3, CE4, BL; BL1 ; BL2, BL3; BL4; BL5 arranged to avoid collision with the articles being packaged.
• the blades may be mounted to a common body in a spaced apart configuration.
• the blades be arranged to be received in gaps or voids between two or more articles B, the articles B being generally cylindrical in shape.
• the frangible connections 413 may comprise connecting nicks or bridging portions N 1 , N2, N3, N4 in vertical registry with the gaps or voids between two or more articles B.
• the connecting nicks or bridging portions N1 , N2, N3, N4 may be arranged in pairs disposed on substantially opposing sides of a region of closest proximity between an article B in a first blank and an article B in a second connected blank.
• the blades BL, BL2, BL3 may be detachably or removably mounted to the applicator AP; 720 such that the arrangement of the blades BL, BL2, BL3 is reconfigurable depending upon the arrangement and/or size of the blanks being applied to the articles B.
• the present disclosure also provides a disconnecting apparatus for separating a plurality of connected article carriers into discrete carriers.
• the disconnecting apparatus may comprise a plurality of article receiving orifices each for receiving a respective article B of the group.
• the disconnecting apparatus may comprise at least one blades BL; BL1 ; BL2, BL3; BL4; BL5 detachably or removably mounted thereto such that the arrangement of the blades BL; BL1; BL2, BL3; BL4; BL5 is reconfigurable depending upon the arrangement and/or size of the blanks being applied to the articles B.
• the blade BL; BL1; BL2, BL3; BL4; BL5 may be supported in a direction transverse by a support or supplementary blade.
• the blade and the support or supplementary blade may each comprise receiver in the form of recess or slot for receiving a portion of the other.

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• Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
• Mechanical Engineering (AREA)
• Packages (AREA)
• Wrapping Of Specific Fragile Articles (AREA)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Publications (1)

Family

ID=88241149

Family Applications (1)

Country Status (7)

Families Citing this family (1)

Family Cites Families (4)

• 2023
  • 2023-09-10 AU AU2023338582A patent/AU2023338582A1/en active Pending
  • 2023-09-10 CA CA3267078A patent/CA3267078A1/en active Pending
  • 2023-09-10 JP JP2025514583A patent/JP2025530266A/ja active Pending
  • 2023-09-10 EP EP23783656.4A patent/EP4584160A2/de active Pending
  • 2023-09-10 WO PCT/US2023/073815 patent/WO2024055026A2/en not_active Ceased
  • 2023-09-10 KR KR1020257010212A patent/KR20250067836A/ko active Pending
• 2025
  • 2025-03-04 MX MX2025002609A patent/MX2025002609A/es unknown

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