EP4673380A1

EP4673380A1 - Article carrier and blank therefor

Info

Publication number: EP4673380A1
Application number: EP24713886.0A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Ikuko YOKOSAWA
Original assignee: WestRock Packaging Systems LLC
Current assignee: WestRock Packaging Systems LLC
Priority date: 2023-03-01
Filing date: 2024-03-01
Publication date: 2026-01-07
Also published as: JP2026507176A; CL2025002627A1; MX2025010279A; CN121079258A; WO2024182726A1; CO2025013394A2; AU2024230202A1

Abstract

Aspects of the disclosure relate to a handle structure, an article carrier for packaging a plurality of articles, and to a blank for forming the handle structure or article carrier. The article carrier comprising a primary panel including a handle structure. The primary panel comprises at least two article retention structures for engaging a respective article. Each of the at least two article retention structures comprises an aperture in the primary panel. The aperture has, or is defined by, a plurality of engaging teeth formed from the primary panel. A first article retention structures comprises a first engaging tooth extending from its proximal end in a first direction to its distal end. A second article retention structures is disposed adjacent to the first article retention structure and comprises a second engaging tooth extending from its proximal end away from the first engaging tooth in a second direction to its distal end.. The handle structure comprises a handle opening which is disposed between the respective proximal ends of the first and second engaging teeth.

Description

ARTICLE CARRIER AND BLANK THEREFOR

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to handle structures, carriers, and to blanks for forming the same. More specifically, but not exclusively, the invention relates to a carrier of the top gripping style and providing a carrying handle for transportation of one, two or more articles.

BACKGROUND

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

It is an object of the present invention to provide a carrier having a carrying handle to enable two or more articles to be transported.

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

SUMMARY

An aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for packaging a plurality of articles. The article carrier comprises a primary panel including a handle structure. The primary panel comprises at least two article retention structures for engaging a respective article so as to provide a top gripping article carrier. Each of the at least two article retention structures comprises an article receiving opening and a plurality of engaging tabs struck from the primary panel and hingedly connected thereto. A first one of the at least two article retention structures comprises a first engaging tooth defined in part by a first pair of cutlines. A first hinged connection between the first engaging tooth and the primary panel is defined between router ends of the first pair of cutlines. A second one of the at least two article retention structures comprises a second engaging tooth defined in part by a second pair of cutlines. A second hinged connection between the second engaging tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the second pair of cutlines. The second engaging tooth is hinged in opposition to the first engaging tooth and the first engaging tooth and second engaging tooth are transversely disposed of a longitudinal axis of the primary panel. The handle structure comprises a handle opening disposed, at least in part, between the first and second hinged connections.

Optionally, a center of the handle opening is disposed between the first and second hinged connections.

Optionally, a outer end of a first one of the first pair of cutlines and a outer end of a first one of the second pair of cutlines define a first boundary line and a outer end of a second one of the first pair of cutlines and a outer end of a second one of the second pair of cutlines define a second boundary line, the first and second boundary lines defining a region of the primary panel therebetween, and wherein a center of the handle opening is disposed with said region of the primary panel defined by the first and second boundary lines.

Optionally, the first boundary line is parallel to the second boundary line.

Optionally, notional lines collinear with each of the first and second pairs of cutlines define an area of the primary panel between the first and second hinged connections, and wherein the handle opening is disposed within said area of the primary panel.

Optionally, the notional lines define a parallelogram.

Optionally, centers of each of a pair of the at least two article retention structures define a notional line, and a center of the handle opening lies upon the notional line.

Optionally, the notional line extends perpendicularly to a side edge of the primary panel.

Optionally, the side edge of the primary panel is defined by a hinged connection between the primary panel and a side panel.

Optionally, the notional line is equidistant between the first and second boundary lines and parallel thereto. Optionally, the article carrier comprises a pair of opposed side panels hingedly connected to the primary panel.

Another aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for packaging a plurality of articles. The article carrier comprises a primary panel including a handle structure. The primary panel comprises at least one pair of article retention structures for engaging a respective article so as to provide a top gripping article carrier. Each of the at least one pair of article retention structures comprises an article receiving opening and a plurality of engaging tabs struck from the primary panel and hingedly connected thereto. A first one of the at least one pair of article retention structures comprises a first engaging tooth defined in part by a first pair of cutlines. A first hinged connection between the first engaging tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the first pair of cutlines. A second one of the at least one pair of article retention structures comprises a second engaging tooth defined in part by a second pair of outlines. A second hinged connection between the second engaging tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the second pair of cutlines. The second engaging tooth is hinged in opposition to the first engaging tooth on opposing sides of a longitudinal axis of the primary panel. The handle structure comprises a handle opening the center of which is disposed between the first and second hinged connections.

Yet another aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for packaging a plurality of articles. The article carrier comprises a primary panel including a handle structure. The primary panel comprises a first pair of article retention structures and a second pair of article retention structures for engaging respective articles so as to provide a top gripping article carrier. Each of article retention structures comprises an article receiving opening and a plurality of engaging tabs struck from the primary panel and hingedly connected thereto. A first one of the first pair of article retention structures comprises a first engaging tooth defined in part by a first pair of cutlines. A first hinged connection between the first engaging tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the first pair of cutlines. A second one of the first pair of article retention structures comprises a second engaging tooth defined in part by a second pair of cutlines. A second hinged connection between the second engaging tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the second pair of cutlines. The second engaging tooth is hinged in opposition to the first engaging tooth on opposing sides of a longitudinal axis of the primary panel. The handle structure comprises a first handle opening the center of which is disposed between the first and second hinged connections. A first one of the second pair of article retention structures comprises a third engaging tooth defined in part by a third pair of outlines. A third hinged connection between the third engaging tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the third pair of cutlines. A second one of the second pair of article retention structures comprises a fourth engaging tooth defined in part by a fourth pair of cutlines. A fourth hinged connection between the fourth engaging tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the fourth pair of cutlines. The fourth engaging tooth is hinged in opposition to the third engaging tooth on opposing sides of a longitudinal axis of the primary panel. The handle structure comprises a second handle opening the center of which is disposed between the third and fourth hinged connections.

Still yet another aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a primary panel including a handle structure. The primary panel comprises at least two article retention structures for engaging a respective article for forming a top gripping article carrier. Each of the at least two article retention structures comprises an article receiving opening and a plurality of engaging tabs struck from the primary panel and hingedly connected thereto. A first one of the at least two article retention structures comprises a first engaging tooth defined in part by a first pair of cutlines. A first hinged connection between the first engaging tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the first pair of cutlines. A second one of the at least two article retention structures comprises a second engaging tooth defined in part by a second pair of cutlines. A second hinged connection between the second engaging tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the second pair of cutlines. The second engaging tooth is hinged in opposition to the first engaging tooth and the first engaging tooth and second engaging tooth are transversely disposed of a longitudinal axis of the primary panel. The handle structure comprises a handle opening disposed, at least in part, between the first and second hinged connections.

A further aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a primary panel including a handle structure. The primary panel comprises at least one pair of article retention structures for engaging a respective article for forming a top gripping article carrier. Each of the at least one pair of article retention structures comprises an article receiving opening and a plurality of engaging tabs struck from the primary panel and hingedly connected thereto. A first one of the at least one pair of article retention structures comprises a first engaging tooth defined in part by a first pair of cutlines. A first hinged connection between the first engaging tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the first pair of cutlines. A second one of the at least one pair of article retention structures comprises a second engaging tooth defined in part by a second pair of cutlines. A second hinged connection between the second engaging tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the second pair of cutlines. The second engaging tooth is hinged in opposition to the first engaging tooth on opposing sides of a longitudinal axis of the primary panel. The handle structure comprises a handle opening the center of which is disposed between the first and second hinged connections.

Still a further aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a primary panel including a handle structure. The primary panel comprises a first pair of article retention structures and a second pair of article retention structures for engaging respective articles for forming a top gripping article carrier. Each of article retention structures comprises an article receiving opening and a plurality of engaging tabs struck from the primary panel and hingedly connected thereto. A first one of the first pair of article retention structures comprises a first engaging tooth defined in part by a first pair of cutlines. A first hinged connection between the first engaging tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the first pair of cutlines. A second one of the first pair of article retention structures comprises a second engaging tooth defined in part by a second pair of cutlines. A second hinged connection between the second engaging tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the second pair of cutlines. The second engaging tooth is hinged in opposition to the first engaging tooth on opposing sides of a longitudinal axis of the primary panel. The handle structure comprises a first handle opening the center of which is disposed between the first and second hinged connections. A first one of the second pair of article retention structures comprises a third engaging tooth defined in part by a third pair of cutlines. A third hinged connection between the third engaging tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the third pair of cutlines. A second one of the second pair of article retention structures comprises a fourth engaging tooth defined in part by a fourth pair of cutlines. A fourth hinged connection between the fourth engaging tooth and the primary panel is defined between outer ends of the fourth pair of cutlines. The fourth engaging tooth is hinged in opposition to the third engaging tooth on opposing sides of a longitudinal axis of the primary panel. The handle structure comprises a second handle opening the center of which is disposed between the third and fourth hinged connections.

Further features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the specific embodiments illustrated in the drawings and discussed below. Within the scope of this application, it is envisaged or intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings may be considered or taken independently or in any combination thereof.

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

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

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

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

Figures 1 to 3 are a plan views from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to an embodiment of the disclosure; and

Figure 4 is a perspective view of a carton formed from the blank of Figure 1 .

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

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

Referring to Figure 1 , there is shown a plan view of a blank 10 capable of forming a carton or carrier 90, as shown in Figure 4, for carrying a group of primary products such as, but not limited to, bottles, hereinafter referred to as articles. The blank 10 forms a secondary package or handle structure for packaging at least one primary product container or package.

In the embodiments detailed herein, the terms “carton” and “carrier” refer, for the non-limiting purpose of illustrating the various features of the invention, to a container 90 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. Other exemplary containers include bottles (for example metallic, glass or plastics bottles), cans (for example aluminium cans), tins, pouches, packets and the like.

The blank 10 is formed from a sheet of suitable substrate. It is to be understood that, as used herein, the term “suitable substrate” includes all manner of foldable sheet material such as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, and the like. It should be 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 packaging structure or carton 90 described herein may be formed from a sheet material such as paperboard, which may be made of or coated with materials to increase its strength. An example of such a sheet material is tear-resistant NATRALOCK® paperboard made by WestRock Company. It should be noted that the tear resistant materials may be provided by more than one layer, to help improve the tear-resistance of the package. Typically, one surface of the sheet material may have different characteristics to the other surface. For example, the surface of the sheet material that faces outwardly from a finished package may be particularly smooth and may have a coating such as a clay coating or other surface treatment to provide good printability. The surface of the sheet material that faces inwardly may, on the other hand, be provided with a coating, a layer, a treatment or be otherwise prepared to provide properties such as one or more of tear-resistance, good glue-ability, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties. In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 10 is configured to form a carton or carrier 90 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles. In the illustrated embodiment the arrangement is an m x n matrix or array, having two row (m=2) and two columns (n=2) two row of two articles is provided, and the articles may be 0.5L bottles. Alternatively, the blank 10 can be configured to form a carrier for packaging other types, number and size of articles and/or for packaging articles in a different arrangement or configuration for example, but not limited to, fully enclosed cartons or wrap-around carriers, the articles may be cups, pouches, pots or cans.

T urning to Figure 1 , there is illustrated a blank 10 for forming a carton 90 (see Figure 4) according to a first embodiment. The blank 10 comprises a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16 arranged in a linear series hinged one to the next by a respective fold line 13, 15.

The plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16 form a top engaging carrier 90. The plurality of panels 12, 14, 16 comprises a first panel 12, a second panel 14 and a third panel 16. The second panel 14 is hingedly connected to the first panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 13. The third panel 16 is hingedly connected to the first panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 15. The fold lines 13, 15 are disposed along the opposed side edges of the first panel 12.

The first panel 12 forms a top or primary engaging panel 12 from which articles B are suspended. The second and third panels 14, 16 form opposed side or shoulder panels.

The primary panel 12 comprises a plurality of article retention structures RT, optionally four article retention structures RT arranged in 2 x 2 matrix or array. Each of the article retention structures RT comprises an aperture A1 . The aperture A1 may optionally be octagonal in shape.

The article retention structures RT comprise a toothed region, defined by a plurality of teeth or tabs 40, 42, 50, surrounding the aperture A1 .

Each of the article retention structures RT is substantially the same in construction and will be described in further detail with reference to one of the article retention structures RT shown in Figure 1 . The article retention structure RT comprises a plurality of teeth or engaging tabs 40, 42, 50 struck from, or defined within the primary panel 12. The plurality of teeth or engaging tabs 40, 42, 50 are disposed about the aperture A1 and surround the same. The plurality of teeth or engaging tabs 40, 42, 50 along with the aperture A1 form an article receiving opening for receiving a portion of an article B to be packaged.

The plurality of teeth or engaging tabs 40, 42, 50 comprises a major tooth or tab 50. The major tooth 50 extends from one of the second or third panels 14, 16 and is integral therewith. The major tooth 50 interrupts the fold line 13, 15 between the primary panel 12 and the respective one of the side panels 14, 16.

Secondary teeth 40 are provided on opposing sides of the major tooth 50, respectively, Each of the secondary teeth 40 is struck from, or defined within the primary panel 12 and is hingedly connected thereto by a hinged connection. The hinged connection may be defined at least in part by a linear cutline 41 . Each secondary tooth 40 is separated from the major tooth 50 by a cutline 47. Each cutline 47 extends radially outward from the aperture A1 , optionally from a corner or vertex of the aperture A1 . The cutlines 47 terminate at the respective one of the fold lines 13, 15 between the primary panel 12 and the respective side panel 14,16.

The plurality of teeth or engaging tabs 40, 42, 50 comprises five tertiary teeth or tabs 42 disposed about the remainder of the aperture A1. One of the tertiary teeth or tabs 42 is disposed substantially opposite the major tooth 50. Each of the tertiary teeth 42 is struck from, or defined within the primary panel 12 and is hingedly connected thereto by a hinged connection. The hinged connection may be defined at least in part by a nonlinear or arcuate cutline 43. Each tertiary tooth 42 is separated from an adjacent neighbouring tooth 40, 42 by a cutline 45. Each cutline 45 extends radially outward from the aperture A1 , optionally from a corner or vertex of the aperture A1.

The aperture A1 defines engaging edges E of the teeth or engaging tabs 40, 42, 50. Those engaging edges E are disposed opposite to the respective hinged edges or proximal ends of the teeth or engaging tabs 40, 42, 50.

The blank 10 comprises a handle structure H. The handle structure H takes the form of a finger opening in the primary panel 12. The primary panel 12 may comprise a pair of finger openings. Each finger opening is defined, at least in part, by one or more handle flaps 70, 72. The illustrated embodiment comprises a pair of handle flaps 70, 72 separated from each other by a cutline 75. The cutline 75 may bisect the finger opening. Each of the pair of handle flaps 70, 72 is hingedly connected to the primary panel 12 by a fold line 71 , 73 respectively. A first handle flap 70 is hingedly connected to the primary panel 12 by a first fold line 71 and a second handle flap 72 is hingedly connected to the first panel 12 by a second fold line 73. The second fold line 73 is divergently arranged with respect to the first line 71 . The first and second fold lines 71 , 73 may define a “V” shape which is bisected by the cut line 75.

Each of the pair of handle flaps 70, 72 may comprise a predefined fold spaced apart from and generally parallel to its respective hinged connection to the primary panel 12. The predefined fold may be provided by a suitable feature such as, but not limited to, a fold line, score line or cutline.

Referring now to Figure 2, the handle opening comprises a center C_e. The center C_e lies on the midpoint of a notional line longitudinally bisecting the handle opening.

Each handle opening is disposed between a pair of adjacent article retention structures RT. Optionally, the handle opening is disposed between one of the tertiary teeth 42 (i.e., the “first neighbor tooth”) of one of the pair of adjacent article retention structures RT and one of the tertiary teeth 42 (i.e., the “second neighbor tooth) of the other one of the pair of adjacent article retention structures RT. The first and second neighbor teeth 42 disposed on the opposite sides of the handle opening each is disposed diagonally opposite the major tooth 50 of the respective one of the pair of adjacent article retention structures RT. Optionally, the center C_e of the handle opening is disposed between the proximal ends of the first and second neighbor teeth 42 of the pair of adjacent article retention structures RT.

The first and second neighbor teeth 42 define an area or region “A” extending across the primary panel 12. More specifically, the area “A” is defined by a pair of notional boundary lines BL1 , BL2. A first notional boundary line BL1 passes through an outer end of a radially extending first cutline 45 defining one of the opposing side edges of of the first neighbor tooth 42 and through an outer end of a radially extending first cutline 45 defining one of the opposing side edges of the second neighbor tooth 42. A second notional boundary line BL2 passes through an outer end of a radially extending second cutline 45 defining the other one of the opposing side edges of the first neighbor tooth 42 and through an outer end of a radially extending second cutline 45 defining the other one of the opposing side edges of the second neighbor tooth 42.

The cutlines 45, 47 of each article retention structure RT each extends radially outwards from the respective aperture A1 into the primary panel 12 and terminates at the respective outer end.

Each of the pair of notional boundary lines BL1 , BL2 is perpendicular to the side edges of the primary panel 12 defined by the fold lines 13, 15.

A notional transverse line NL1 which passes through the center CA of each of the pair of adjacent article retention structures RT is perpendicular to side edges of the primary panel 12. The notional transverse line NL1 lies in the area or region “A” defined between the pair of notional boundary lines BL1 , BL2.

The center C_e of the handle opening lies in the area or region “A”.

The center C_e of the handle opening may lie on the notional transverse line NL1 which passes through the center CA of each of the pair of adjacent article retention structures RT.

The notional transverse line NL1 bisects the area “A”. Stated differently, the notional transverse line NL1 is equidistant from each of the pair of boundary lines BL1 , BL2.

Referring now to Figure 3, each handle opening is disposed in a respective portion P of the primary panel 12 defined between the respective pair of adjacent article retention structures RT. Each portion P of the primary panel 12 is defined by notional extensions of the cutlines 45 of the first and second neighbor teeth 42 disposed on the opposite sides of that handle opening. The portions P of the primary panel 12 are hexagonally shaped. Each handle opening is disposed within the respective hexagonally shaped region P of the primary panel 12; the notional extensions of the cutlines 45 of the first and second neighbor teeth do not pass through the respective handle opening.

The blank 10 is foldable to form a package 90 as illustrated in Figure 4. Turning to the construction of the article carrier 90 as illustrated in Figures 2, the article carrier 90 can be formed by a series of sequential folding operations. The folding process is not limited to that described below and may be altered according to particular manufacturing requirements.

The blank 10 is lowered with respect to a group of articles B, each article B being disposed in vertical registry with a respective one of the article retention structures RT. An article B is received in each of the article retention structures RT. When the articles B are received, the engaging tabs 40, 42, 50 fold outward of the plane of the primary panel 12, the engaging tabs 40, 42, 50 fold upwardly. As a consequence of folding the first tabs 50 upwardly, the side panels 14, 16 fold downwardly about the sides or shoulders of the articles B.

The engaging tabs 40, 42, 50 of each article retention structure engage the respective article B below a flange or other suitable projection at the upper portion (e.g., the neck) of the article B. The projection may be provided by a cap or end closure C of the article B or may be provided separately below the end closure C (see Figure 4), so as to enable the primary panel 12 to support and suspend the article B therefrom.

When the carrier 90 is lifted by the handle structure H, as illustrated in Figure 4 where the carrier 90 is shown suspended on a test jig U for illustrative purposes, the primary panel 12 may bend, deform of fold inwardly in regions between each handle opening and the adjacent end edge EE1 , EE₂, as indicated by phantom lines (dot-dash lines) FL in Figure 2.

It has been found that when the phantom lines FL increase sufficiently in length, that is to say, the distance between the handle opening and the adjacent end edge EE1 , EE₂ increases, the articles B will have greater tendency to splay or spread apart from each other at their bases.

It has also been found that when the phantom lines FL decrease sufficiently in length, that is to say, the distance between the handle opening and the adjacent end edge EE1 , EE₂ decreases, the security of the articles B in the carrier 90 also decreases and may be decreased to such an extent that they separate or are disengaged, unintentionally, from the carrier 90.

The optimum location for the handle opening has been found to be within the region A illustrated in Figure 2 and/or within the region P illustrated in Figure 3, that is to say, the handle openings are disposed in a region of the primary panel 12 so as to be in closer proximity to each of a respective pair of adjacent article retention structures RT. The distance between the center C_e of the handle opening and the centers CA of each of a pair of adjacent article retention structures RT is reduced or minimized.

The present disclosure provides an article carrier 90 comprising a primary panel 12 including a handle structure H. The primary panel 12 comprises at least two article retention structures RT for engaging a respective article so as to provide a top gripping article carrier 90. Each of the at least two article retention structures RT comprises an article receiving opening having, or defined by, a plurality of engaging tabs 40, 42, 50 struck from the primary panel 12 and hingedly connected thereto. A first one of the at least two article retention structures RT comprises a first engaging tooth 42 defined in part by a first pair of cutlines 45. The proximal end of the first engaging tooth 42 may be defined by a first hinged connection between the first engaging tooth 42 and the primary panel 12. Such a hinged connection may extend at least partially between the outer ends of the first pair of cutlines 45. A second one of the at least two article retention structures RT comprises a second engaging tooth 42 defined in part by a second pair of cutlines 45. The proximal end of the second engaging tooth 42 may be defined by a second hinged connection between the second engaging tooth 42 and the primary panel 12. Such a hinged connection of the second engaging tooth 42 may extend at least partially between the outer ends of the second pair of cutlines 45. The second engaging tooth 42 is hinged in opposition to the first engaging tooth 42 wherein the first engaging tooth 42 and second engaging tooth 42 are transversely disposed of a longitudinal center axis L_a of the primary panel 12. The handle structure H comprises a handle opening having its center C_e disposed between the proximal ends of the first and second neighbor teeth 42, 42 .

The outer end of a first one of the first pair of cutlines 45 and that of a first one of the second pair of cutlines 45 define a first notional boundary line BL1 . The outer end of a second one of the first pair of cutlines 45 and that of a second one of the second pair of cutlines 45 define a second notional boundary line BL2. The first and second notional boundary lines BL1 , BL2 define a region of the primary panel 12 therebetween, wherein a center of the handle opening is disposed in said region of the primary panel 12 defined by the first and second notional boundary lines BL1 , BL2. The first notional boundary line BL1 is parallel to the second notional boundary line BL2.

Notional lines FL1 , FL2 collinear with each of the first and second pairs of cutlines 45 define an area “G” of the primary panel 12 between the distal ends d1 , d2 of the first and second neighbor teeth 42, wherein the handle opening is disposed within said area “G” of the primary panel 12. The notional lines FL1 , FL2 define a parallelogram or at least part of a hexagon.

Centers CA of each of a pair of the at least two article retention structures RT define a notional transverse line NL1. A center of the handle opening may lie upon the notional transverse line NL1 . The notional transverse line NL1 may extend perpendicularly to a side edge of the primary panel 12. The side edge of the primary panel 12 may be defined by a hinged connection between the primary panel 12 and a side panel 14, 16.

The notional transverse line NL1 may be equidistant from the first and second notional boundary lines BL1 , BL2 and may be parallel thereto.

The article carrier 90 may comprise a pair of opposed side panels 14, 16 hingedly connected to the primary panel 12. Each side panel 14, 16 has a free edge which opposes its hinged edge defined by the hinged connection of that side panel to the primary panel 12.

The present disclosure provides an article carrier 90 comprising a primary panel 12 including a handle structure H. The primary panel 12 comprises at least one pair of article retention structures RT for engaging respective articles so as to provide a top gripping article carrier 90. Each of the at least one pair of article retention structures RT comprises an article receiving opening having, or defined by, a plurality of engaging tabs 40, 42, 50 struck from the primary panel 12 and hingedly connected thereto. A first one of the at least one pair of article retention structures RT comprises a first engaging tooth 42 which may be defined in part by a first pair of cutlines 45, 45. The first engaging tooth 42 has a first proximal end. The first proximal end may be defined by a first hinged connection between the first engaging tooth 42 and the primary panel 12. The first hinged connection may extend between the outer ends of the first pair of cutlines 45. A second one of the at least one pair of article retention structures RT comprises a second engaging tooth 42 defined in part by a second pair of cutlines 45. The second engaging tooth 42 has a second proximal end which may be defined by a second hinged connection between the second engaging tooth 42 and the primary panel 12. The second hinged connection may extend between the outer ends of the second pair of cutlines 45. The second engaging tooth 42 is hinged in opposition to the first engaging tooth 42 on opposing sides of the longitudinal center axis L_a of the primary panel 12. The handle structure H comprises a handle opening disposed, at least in part, between the first and second proximal ends of the first and second neighbor teeth. The present disclosure also provides an article carrier 90 comprising a primary panel 12 including a handle structure H. The primary panel 12 comprises a first pair of article retention structures RT and a second pair of article retention structures RT for engaging respective articles B so as to provide a top gripping article carrier 90. Each of article retention structures RT comprises an article receiving opening having, or defined by, a plurality of engaging tabs 40, 42, 50 struck from the primary panel 12 and hingedly connected thereto. A first one of the first pair of article retention structures RT comprises a first engaging tooth 42 defined in part by a first pair of cutlines 45. The first engaging tooth 42 has a proximal end which may be defined by a first hinged connection between the first engaging tooth 42 and the primary panel 12. The first hinged connection may extend between the outer ends of the first pair of cutlines 45. A second one of the first pair of article retention structures RT comprises a second engaging tooth 42 defined in part by a second pair of cutlines 45. The second engaging tooth has a second proximal end which may be defined by a second hinged connection between the second engaging tooth 42 and the primary panel 12. The second hinged connection may extend between the outer ends of the second pair of cutlines 45. The second engaging tooth 42 is hinged in opposition to the first engaging tooth 42 on opposing sides of a longitudinal center axis L_a of the primary panel 12. The handle structure H comprises a first handle opening disposed, at least in part, between the first and second hinged connections. A first one of the second pair of article retention structures RT comprises a third engaging tooth 42 defined in part by a third pair of cutlines. The third engaging tooth 42 has a third proximal end which may be defined by a third hinged connection between the third engaging tooth 42 and the primary panel 12. The third hinged connection may extend between the outer ends of the third pair of cutlines. A second one of the second pair of article retention structures RT comprises a fourth engaging tooth 42 defined in part by a fourth pair of cutlines. The fourth engaging tooth 42 has a fourth proximal end which may be defined by a fourth hinged connection between the fourth engaging tooth 42 and the primary panel 12. The fourth hinged connection may extend between the outer ends of the fourth pair of cutlines. The fourth engaging tooth 42 is hinged in opposition to the third engaging tooth 42 on opposing sides of the longitudinal center axis L_a of the primary panel 12. The handle structure H comprises a second handle opening disposed, at least in part, between the third and fourth hinged connections.

It can be appreciated that various changes may be made within the scope of the present invention. For example, the size and shape of the panels and apertures may be adjusted to accommodate articles of differing size or shape. It will be recognized that as used herein, directional references such as "top", "bottom", “base”, "front", "back", "end", "side", "inner", "outer", "upper" and "lower" do not necessarily limit the respective panels to such orientation, but may merely serve to distinguish these panels from one another.

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

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

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

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

Claims

1 . A blank of an article carrier for packaging a plurality of articles, the blank comprising a primary panel including a handle structure, the primary panel comprising at least two article retention structures for engaging respective articles, each of the at least two article retention structures comprising an aperture in the primary panel and a plurality of engaging teeth formed from the primary panel and hingedly connected thereto, wherein a first one of the at least two article retention structures comprises a first engaging tooth extending from a proximal end thereof in a first direction to an distal end thereof, a second one of the at least two article retention structures is disposed adjacent to the first one of the at least two article retention structures and comprises a second engaging tooth extending from a proximal end thereof away from the first engaging tooth in a second direction to a distal end thereof, and wherein the handle structure comprises a first handle opening disposed between the proximal ends of the first and second engaging teeth.

2. A blank according to claim 1 , wherein a center of the handle opening is disposed between the proximal ends of the first and second engaging teeth.

3. A blank according to claim 1 , wherein the first engaging tooth is defined in part by a first pair of opposing side edges thereof, wherein the second engaging tooth is defined in part by a second pair of opposing side edges thereof, wherein a outer end of a first one of the first pair of opposing side edges and a outer end of a first one of the second pair of opposing side edges define a first notional boundary line, wherein a outer end of a second one of the first pair of opposing side edges and a outer end of a second one of the second pair of opposing side edges define a second notional boundary line, the first and second notional boundary lines defining a region of the primary panel therebetween, and wherein a center of the handle opening is disposed in said region of the primary panel defined by the first and second notional boundary lines.

4. A blank according to claim 3, wherein the first notional boundary line is parallel to the second boundary line.

5. A blank according to claim 1 , wherein the first engaging tooth is defined in part by a first pair of opposing side edges thereof, wherein the second engaging tooth is defined in part by a second pair of opposing side edges thereof, wherein each of the first pair of side edges is linear, wherein each of the second pair of side edges is linear, wherein notional lines collinear with the first and second pairs of side edges define an area of the primary panel, the area extending between the distal ends of the first and second engaging teeth, and wherein the handle opening is disposed within said area of the primary panel.

6. A blank according to claim 5, wherein the notional lines define a parallelogram.

7. A blank according to claim 1 , wherein a notional transverse line extends between a center of the first one of the at least two article retention structures and a center of the second one of the at least two article retention structures, and the handle opening lies on the notional transverse line.

8. A blank according to claim 7, wherein the notional line extends perpendicularly to a side edge of the primary panel.

9. A blank according to claim 8, wherein the side edge of the primary panel is defined by a hinged connection between the primary panel and a side panel.

10. A blank according to claim 3, wherein a notional line extends between a center of the first one of the at least two article retention structures and a center of the second one of the at least two article retention structures, a canter of the handle opening lies on the notional line, and wherein the notional line is equidistant between the first and second notional boundary lines and parallel thereto.

1 1. A blank according to claim 1 , wherein the article carrier comprises a pair of opposed side panels hingedly connected to the primary panel.

12. A blank according to claim 1 , wherein a third one of the at least two article retention structures comprises a third engaging tooth extending from a proximal end thereof in the first direction to an distal end thereof, a fourth one of the at least two article retention structures is disposed adjacent to the third one of the at least two article retention structures, the fourth one of the at least two article retention structures comprises a fourth engaging tooth extending from a proximal end thereof away from the third engaging tooth in the second direction to a distal end thereof, and wherein the handle structure further comprises a second handle opening disposed, at least in part, between the proximal ends of the third and fourth engaging teeth.

13. An article carrier for packaging a plurality of articles, the article carrier comprising a primary panel including a handle structure, the primary panel comprising at least two article retention structures for engaging respective articles , each of the at least two article retention structures comprising an aperture in the primary panel and a plurality of engaging teeth formed from the primary panel and hingedly connected thereto, wherein a first one of the at least two article retention structures comprises a first engaging tooth extending from a proximal end thereof in a first direction to a distal end thereof, a second one of the at least two article retention structures is disposed adjacent to the first one of the at least two article retention structures and comprises a second engaging tooth extending from a proximal end thereof away from the first engaging tooth in a second direction to a distal end thereof, and wherein the handle structure comprises a handle opening disposed, at least in part, between the proximal ends of the first and second engaging teeth.

14. An article carrier according to claim 13, wherein a third one of the at least two article retention structures comprises a third engaging tooth extending from a proximal end thereof in the first direction to an distal end thereof, a fourth one of the at least two article retention structures is disposed adjacent to the third one of the at least two article retention structures, the fourth one of the at least two article retention structures comprises a fourth engaging tooth extending from a proximal end thereof away from the third engaging tooth in the second direction to a distal end thereof, and wherein the handle structure comprises a second handle opening disposed, at least in part, between the proximal ends of the third and fourth engaging teeth.

15. A blank of claim 3, wherein the opposing side edges of the first pair are defined by cutlines respectively, and wherein the opposing side edges of the second pair are defined by cutlines respectively,

16. A blank of claim 15, wherein the cutlines defining the first pair of opposing side edges extend radially outward from the aperture of the first one of the at least two article retention structures, and wherein the cutlines defining the second pair of opposing side edges extend radially outward from the aperture of the second one of the at least two article retention structures.

17. A blank of claim 1 , wherein the first engaging tooth is hingedly connected at the proximal end thereof to the primary panel by a hinged connection, and wherein the second engaging tooth is hingedly connected at the proximal end thereof to the primary panel by a hinged connection.

18. A blank of claim 7, wherein the first engaging tooth and second engaging tooth are disposed on opposite sides of a longitudinal center axis of the primary panel, the longitudinal center axis being perpendicular to the notional transverse line.

19. A blank of claim 7, wherein a center of the handle opening lies on the notional transverse line.

20. A blank of claim 3, wherein the center of the handle opening lies on a midpoint of a notional line longitudinally bisecting the handle opening.