EP4688606A2

EP4688606A2 - Article carrier and blank therfor

Info

Publication number: EP4688606A2
Application number: EP24724023.7A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Julien Merzeau; Cullen B. Rosenbrien; Kenneth BAUMEISTER; Jean-Michel Garnier
Original assignee: WestRock Packaging Systems LLC
Current assignee: WestRock Packaging Systems LLC
Priority date: 2023-04-05
Filing date: 2024-04-05
Publication date: 2026-02-11
Also published as: WO2024211824A2; CL2025002999A1; AU2024244323A1; CO2025015266A2; KR20250168644A; WO2024211824A3; JP2026512005A; MX2025011858A; CN121241013A

Abstract

A top engaging article carrier (90; 190; 690; 790) for packaging at least one article is disclosed. The article carrier includes an upper main panel (14; 114; 312; 120; 220) and a lower main panel (24; 124; 316; 112; 212) spaced apart from the upper main panel (14; 114; 312; 120; 220). The lower main panel includes at least one article engaging structure (A5, A6; A5, A6; RT; RT; RT3). The upper main panel (14; 114; 312; 120; 220) includes a handle access aperture (A7; A7; A5; A7, A9) in the upper main panel, wherein the handle access aperture provides a single access window through which at least two handle openings (H2, H2; H2, H2; H3, H3; RC, RC; RC, RC) in the lower main panel are accessible. The at least two handle openings provide therebetween a handle for carrying the article carrier.

Description

ARTICLE CARRIER AND BLANK THERFOR

TECHNICAL FIELD

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

BACKGROUND

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

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

It is desirable that all the tabs efficiently or effectively engage the article. It is also desirable to provide a carrier with impact resistance to protect the articles.

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

SUMMARY

A first aspect of the invention provides an article carrier of a top engaging type for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises an engaging board of a partial two-ply structure including first and second panels. Each of the first and second panels comprises at least one article engaging structure. The at least one article engaging structure in the first panel is aligned with the at least one article engaging structure in the second panel. The second panel is a partial reinforcing layer disposed in partial overlapping relationship with the first panel such that the first and second panels together form the partial two-ply structure. The partial two-ply structure comprises a two-ply region and a single ply region.

Advantageously, the first and second panels provide an article carrier which comprises a partially two-ply article engaging carrier. The second panel of the engaging board increases grip or friction between the article carrier and an article received in the article carrier. This may prevent or inhibit rotation of the article with respect to the article carrier when received in the article carrier.

Optionally, the second panel comprises at least one partial article engaging structure disposed in alignment with the at least one article engaging structure in the first panel to form a partial two-ply article engaging device. Optionally, the second panel is hingedly connected to the first panel by a hinged connection. The hinged connection may be a fold line which is offset with respect to a side edge of the first panel.

Optionally, the carrier comprises at least one partial side panel hingedly connected to the side edge of the first panel. The at least one partial side panel extends into an aperture of the at least one partial article engaging structure of the second panel when the carrier is in blank form. The at least one partial side panel may define a portion of a perimeter of the aperture of the at least one partial article engaging structure.

Optionally, the at least one partial article engaging structure comprises a major tab. The major tab may extend from an end panel which is hingedly connected to the second panel. The major tab may be disposed adjacent to the at least one partial side panel and may be separated therefrom by a cutline when the carrier is in blank form.

A second aspect of the invention provides an article carrier of a top engaging type for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises an engaging board including an engaging panel and a reinforcing panel. Each of the panels comprises at least one article engaging structure. The at least one article engaging structure in the engaging panel is aligned with the at least one article engaging structure in the reinforcing panel. The engaging panel is coupled to the reinforcing panel by a pair of connecting panels. A first one of the pair of connecting panels is hingedly connected to a second one of the pair of connecting panels by a hinged connection. Each of the pair of connecting panels comprises at least one article engaging tooth extending therefrom to form a two-ply engaging tooth. The pair of connecting panels may form a two-ply side panel.

Optionally, the two plies of the two-ply engaging tooth are adhesively secured together. Optionally, the two-ply engaging tooth is adhesively secured to a further side panel to form a three-ply side panel of the article carrier.

A third aspect of the invention provides an article carrier of a top engaging type for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises a main panel having at least one article engaging structure. The at least one article engaging structure includes an aperture defined, at least in part, by a plurality of engaging tabs or teeth. Each of the plurality of engaging teeth comprise a free edge. The free edges of the engaging teeth define portions of the aperture, respectively. The free edge of at least one of the plurality of engaging teeth comprises a linear free edge arranged collinearly with a linear portion of the free edge of an adjacently disposed one of the plurality of engaging teeth.

Optionally, the free edge of said at least one of the plurality of engaging teeth is contiguously arranged with the free edge of the adjacently disposed engaging tooth.

Optionally, the linear free edge of the at least one of the plurality of engaging teeth is collinearly arranged with a linear portion of the free edge of another one of the plurality of engaging teeth, said another tooth being disposed adjacent to the at least one of the plurality of engaging teeth.

A fourth aspect of the invention provides an article carrier of the top engaging type for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises a main panel having at least one article engaging structure. The at least one article engaging structure includes an aperture defined, at least in part, by a plurality of engaging teeth. Each of the plurality of engaging teeth comprises a free edge. The free edges of the engaging teeth define portions of the aperture, respectively. The free edge of at least one of the plurality of engaging teeth comprises a linear free edge arranged collinearly with a linear portion of the free edge of each of a pair of adjacently disposed ones of the plurality of engaging teeth.

A fifth aspect of the invention provides an article carrier of the top engaging type for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises a first main panel and a second main panel spaced apart from the first main panel. The second main panel comprises at least one article engaging structure. The first main panel comprises a pair of locking tabs struck from the first main panel and hingedly connected thereto in opposition to one another. The pair of locking tabs are spaced apart by an aperture. The aperture forms a viewing window through which a portion of the second main panel can be observed. The portion of the second main panel comprises a pair of receiving openings. A locking tab is received in each of the pair of receiving openings to secure the first main panel to the second main panel, each receiving opening providing a handle, or portion thereof, for carrying the article carrier.

This may be advantageous for facilitating a user's understanding of how to best engage the handle, in particular that they can or should engage with the second man panel when carrying the article carrier and not rely solely upon the first main panel which is uppermost.

Optionally, each receiving opening is defined by at least one receiving or female tab struck from the second main panel and hingedly connected thereto by a respective hinged connection.

Optionally, each receiving opening is defined by three receiving tabs, including a pair of receiving tabs hingedly connected to the second main panel by a pair of divergently arranged fold lines and separated from each other by a first cutline, the pair of divergently arranged fold lines comprising proximal ends spaced in close proximity to each other and distal ends distally spaced from each other. Optionally, the first cutline bisects the pair of divergently arranged fold lines.

Optionally, a third tab is hingedly connected to the second main panel by a further fold line, the further fold line being oriented perpendicularly to the first cutline. Optionally, the first cutline bisects the further fold line.

Optionally, the pair of receiving tabs are defined, in part, by a second cutline extending between the distal ends of the pair of divergently arranged fold lines. Optionally, the second cutline is oriented perpendicularly to the first cutline.

Optionally, the third tab comprises a free end edge, the free end edge opposes a hinged edge defined by the further fold line. Optionally, the free end edge is provided by a portion of the second cutline, the free end edge being shorter in length than the second cutline.

A sixth aspect of the invention provides an article carrier of the top engaging type for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises a main panel having at least one article retention structure including an aperture defined, at least in part, by a plurality of teeth. The plurality of teeth includes: a standard tooth: a wide tooth, the wide tooth being wider than the standard tooth; and a tall tooth, the tall tooth being taller than the standard tooth. The standard tooth and the wide tooth each comprise an engaging end edge opposing a respective hinged connection to the main panel to form engaging teeth. The engaging end edge is configured for suspending an article therefrom, whereas the tall tooth is employable as an abutment tooth or as an engaging tooth. A seventh aspect of the invention provides a package comprising an article carrier of the top engaging type and at least one article. The article carrier comprises a main panel having at least one article retention structure, including an aperture defined, at least in part, by a plurality of teeth. The plurality of teeth includes; a standard tooth; a wide tooth, the wide tooth being wider than the standard tooth; and a tall tooth, the tall tooth is taller than the standard tooth. The standard tooth and the wide tooth each comprise an engaging end edge opposing a respective hinged connection to the main panel. The engaging end edge engages below a projection of the article, suspending an article therefrom. The tall tooth is employed as an abutment tooth, a free end edge of the tall tooth is disposed above the projection from which the article is suspended. The free end edge of the tall tooth opposes a hinged connection of the tall tooth to the main panel.

Optionally, the plurality of teeth comprises a narrow tooth, the narrow tooth is narrower than the standard tooth.

Optionally, the free end edge of the tall tooth extends further from its hinged connection to the main panel than the standard tooth extends. Optionally, the free end edge of the tall tooth is radially offset with respect to the free end edge of the standard tooth.

Optionally, the free end edge of the tall tooth is closer to the center of the aperture than the free end edge of the standard tooth. Optionally, the tall tooth has substantially the same width as the standard tooth. Optionally, a free end edge of the wide tooth is contiguous with a free end edge of an adjacent tooth. Optionally, a free end edge of the wide tooth and a free end edge of the standard tooth are equidistant from the center of the aperture.

An eighth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier of the top engaging type. The blank comprises panels for forming a two-ply engaging panel including an engaging panel and a reinforcing panel. Each of the panels comprises article engaging structure, an article engaging structure in a first one of the panels is configured to be aligned with an article engaging structure in a second one of the panels. The reinforcing panel is a partial reinforcing panel arranged to be disposed in partial overlapping relationship with the engaging panel such that the partial reinforcing panel forms a partial two-ply engaging panel with the engaging panel. The partial two-ply engaging panel comprises a two-ply region and a single ply region.

A ninth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises panels for forming a two-ply engaging panel including an engaging panel and a reinforcing panel. Each of the panels comprises article engaging structure, an article engaging structure in a first one of the panels is configured to be aligned with an article engaging structure in a second one of the panels. The engaging panel is coupled to the reinforcing panel by a pair of connecting panels, a first one of the pair of connecting panels is hingedly connected to a second one of the pair of connecting panels by a hinged connection. Each of the pair of connecting panels comprises at least one article engaging tooth extending therefrom to form a two-ply engaging tooth in a setup carrier.

A tenth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a main panel having at least one article engaging structure including an aperture defined, at least in part, by a plurality of engaging teeth. Each of the plurality of engaging teeth comprises a free edge, the free edges defining portions of the aperture, respectively. At least one of the plurality of engaging teeth comprises a linear free edge arranged collinearly with a linear portion of a free edge of an adjacently disposed one of the plurality of engaging teeth. An eleventh first aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a main panel having at least one article engaging structure. The at least one article engaging structure includes an aperture defined, at least in part, by a plurality of engaging teeth. Each of the plurality of engaging teeth comprises a free edge, the free edges defining portions of the aperture, respectively. At least one of the plurality of engaging teeth comprises a linear free edge arranged collinearly with a linear portion of a free edge of each of a pair of adjacently disposed ones of the plurality of engaging teeth.

A twelfth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a first main panel and a second main panel. The second main panel comprises at least one article engaging structure. The first main panel comprises a pair of locking tabs struck from the first main panel and hingedly connected thereto in opposition to one another. The pair of locking tabs are spaced apart from each other by an aperture. The aperture forms a viewing window through which a portion of the second main panel can be observed. The portion of the second main panel comprises a pair of receiving openings. A locking tab is receivable in each of the pair of receiving openings to secure the first main panel to the second main panel, each receiving opening providing a handle, or portion thereof, in a setup article carrier.

A thirteenth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a main panel having at least one article retention structure including an aperture defined, at least in part, by a plurality of teeth. The plurality of teeth includes: a standard tooth; a wide tooth, the wide tooth being wider than the standard tooth; and a tall tooth, the tall tooth being taller than the standard tooth. The standard tooth and the wide tooth each comprise an engaging end edge opposing a respective hinged connection to the main panel to form engaging teeth. The engaging end edge is configured for suspending an article therefrom, whereas the tall tooth is employable as an abutment tooth or engaging tooth.

A fourteenth aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for packaging at least one article in which the carrier is formed from a single blank. The carrier comprises a tubular structure formed from a plurality of panels including an engaging panel. The engaging panel has at least one article retention structure for engaging an article and for suspending the article therefrom. The single blank is formed from a substrate having a first surface and a second, opposing, surface. The engaging panel presents the first surface of the substrate as an inner or interior surface of the tubular structure. The plurality of panels further comprises a cover panel spaced above the engaging panel. The cover panel presents the first surface of the substrate as an outer or exterior surface of the tubular structure.

Optionally, an end panel is hingedly connected to an end of the engaging panel and exposes the first surface of the substrate when viewed from an end of the tubular structure. The first surface of the end panel may be an outer surface facing outwardly of the tubular structure.

Optionally, the plurality of panels further comprises a base panel disposed in a face-contacting arrangement with the engaging panel, and wherein the base panel presents the first surface of the substrate as an outer surface of the tubular structure.

A fifteenth aspect of the invention provides an article carrier in an erected form. The article carrier comprises an engaging panel or board including an upper ply and a lower ply disposed in a face-contacting arrangement with each other. The lower ply includes at least one lower aperture having an annular series of lower ply tabs formed around the at least one lower aperture. The upper ply includes at least one upper aperture arranged substantially coaxially with the at least one lower aperture and having an annular series of upper ply tabs formed around the at least one upper aperture. One of the upper ply tabs is in face-contacting engagement with at least two of the lower ply tabs. A first one of the at least two lower ply tabs is partially in face-contacting arrangement with the one of the upper ply tabs. A second one of the at least two lower ply tabs is entirely in face-contacting arrangement with the one of the upper ply tabs.

Optionally, a third one of the at least two lower ply tabs is partially in face-contacting arrangement with the one of the upper ply tabs, and the second one of the at least two lower ply tabs is interposed between the first and third ones of the at least two lower ply tabs.

Optionally, a recess is defined between the one of the upper ply tabs and an adjacent one of the upper ply tabs, and the first one of the at least two lower ply tabs is exposed to view through the recess when viewed from the side of the upper ply.

Optionally, a second one of the upper ply tabs is in face-contacting engagement with at least two of the lower ply tabs.

Optionally, the one of the upper ply tabs is disposed at a corner of the article carrier.

A sixteenth aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for packaging at least one article. The carrier has an engaging panel comprising a finger opening defined at least in part by at least two finger flaps hingedly connected to the engaging panel by a respective hinged connection. The finger opening is surrounded by four article receiving openings each comprising an aperture at least partially surrounded by article engaging tabs. A notional line which passes through the center of the finger opening and the center of a first one of the four article receiving openings, disposed at the corner of the engaging panel, bisects a recess between a pair of adjacent engaging teeth of the first article receiving opening and intersects a hinged connection of an adjacent one of the at least two finger flaps.

Optionally, the finger opening is defined by four finger flaps.

Optionally, said four finger flaps comprises two pairs of opposed finger flaps.

Optionally, the finger flaps of each of the pairs of opposed finger flaps are hinged to the engaging panel in opposition to each other.

Optionally, the hinged connection of the adjacent one of the at least two finger flaps is oriented obliquely with respect to end and side edges of the engaging panel. The corner of the engaging panel may be filleted or chamfered. A corner edge of the engaging panel may be parallel to the hinged connection of the adjacent one of the at least two finger flaps.

A seventeenth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a primary panel having a finger opening defined at least in part by at least two finger flaps hingedly connected to the primary panel by a respective hinged connection. The finger opening is surrounded by four article receiving openings each comprising an aperture at least partially surrounded by article engaging tabs. A notional line which passes through the center of the finger opening and the center of a first one of the four article receiving openings, disposed at the corner of the primary panel, bisects a recess between a pair of adjacent engaging teeth of the first article receiving opening and intersects a hinged connection of an adjacent one of the at least two finger flaps.

An eighteenth aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for packaging at least one article. The carrier has an engaging panel comprising a finger opening defined at least in part by at least two finger flaps hingedly connected to the engaging panel by a respective hinged connection. The finger opening is surrounded by four article receiving openings each comprising an aperture at least partially surrounded by article engaging tabs. A notional line which passes through the center of a first one of the four article receiving openings and a center of a second one of the four article receiving openings, bisects a recess between a pair of adjacent engaging teeth in each of the first and second article receiving openings and intersects a hinged connection of an adjacent one of the at least two finger flaps.

Optionally, the finger opening is disposed between the first and second article receiving openings.

Optionally, the notional line passes through the center of the finger opening.

Optionally, the notional line intersects a hinged connection of an opposed pair of the at least two finger flaps. Optionally, the notional line bisects a hinged connection of an opposed pair of the at least two finger flaps.

A nineteenth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank has a primary panel comprising a finger opening defined at least in part by at least two finger flaps hingedly connected to the primary panel by a respective hinged connection. The finger opening is surrounded by four article receiving openings each comprising an aperture at least partially surrounded by article engaging tabs. A notional line which passes through the center of a first one of the four article receiving openings and a center of a second one of the four article receiving openings, bisects a recess between a pair of adjacent engaging teeth in each of the first and second article receiving openings and intersects a hinged connection of an adjacent one of the at least two finger flaps.

A twentieth aspect of the invention provides a top engaging article carrier for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises an upper main panel and a lower main panel spaced apart from the upper main panel. The lower main panel comprises at least one article engaging structure. The upper main panel comprises a handle access aperture in the upper main panel, wherein the handle access aperture provides a single access window through which at least two handle openings in the lower main panel are accessible. The at least two handle openings provide therebetween a handle for carrying the article carrier.

Optionally, the handle access aperture is defined at least in part by at least one foldable tab which is connected to the upper main panel.

Optionally, the at least one foldable tab is received in part in at least one of the at least two handle openings to secure the upper main panel to the lower main panel.

Optionally, the at least one foldable tab comprises a pair of locking tabs. The locking tabs may be disposed in opposition to one another such that the locking tabs define therebetween the handle access aperture when folded with respect to the upper main panel.

A twenty-first aspect of the invention provides a top engaging article carrier for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises an upper main panel and a lower main panel spaced apart from the upper main panel. The lower main panel comprises at least one article engaging structure. The upper main panel comprises a handle access aperture in the upper main panel, wherein the handle access aperture extends between a first location and a second location. The first location is vertically aligned with a first handle opening in the lower main panel while the second location is vertically aligned with a second handle opening in the lower main panel.

Optionally, the at least one foldable tab is received in part in at least one of the first and second handle openings to secure the upper main panel to the lower main panel.

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

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

Figure 1 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a first embodiment;

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

Figure 2 is a perspective view from above of a carrier formed from the blank of Figure 1 ;

Figure 3 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a second embodiment;

Figure 4 is a perspective view from above of a carrier formed from the blank of Figure 3;

Figure 5 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a third embodiment;

Figure 6 illustrates a stage of construction of the blank of Figure 5 into an article carrier;

Figure 7 is a perspective view from above of a carrier formed from the blank of Figure 6;

Figure 8 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a fourth embodiment; Figure 8A is a perspective view from above of a portion of a carrier formed from the blank of Figure 8 showing a handle structure;

Figure 8B is a perspective view from above of another portion of a carrier formed from the blank of Figure 8 showing an article engaging device;

Figure 9 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a fifth embodiment;

Figure 10 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a sixth embodiment;

Figures 11 A and 11 B illustrate top and bottom views respectively of a folded stage of construction of the blank of Figure 10 into an article carrier;

Figure 12 is a schematic view of the blank of Figure 10 in the folded stage or flat, non-erected form showing both upper and lower plies of the carrier, the lower ply is shown by phantom, short dash, lines;

Figure 13 is a perspective view from above of a carrier formed or erected from the blank of Figure 10;

Figure 14 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a seventh embodiment;

Figure 15 is a perspective view from above of a carrier formed from the blank of Figure 14;

Figure 16 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to an eighth embodiment;

Figure 17 is a perspective view from above of a stage of construction of a carrier from the blank of Figure 16;

Figure 18 is a perspective view from above of a carrier formed from the blank of Figure 16; and

Figure 19 is a perspective view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a ninth embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

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

Referring to Figure 1 , there is shown a plan view of a blank 10 which is capable of forming a carton or carrier 90, as shown in Figure 2, 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 2. The articles B may be generally cylindrical; the articles B may comprise a circular cross-sectional shape, at least about a region of engagement with the carrier 90. The blank 10 forms a secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package. Alternative blanks 110; 210; 310; 410; 510 are shown in Figures 3 to 13 for forming an alternative carton or carriers 190; 290; 390; 590.

In the embodiments detailed herein, the terms "carton” and "carrier” refer, for the non-limiting purpose of illustrating the various features of the invention, to a container for engaging and carrying articles, such as primary product containers. It is contemplated that the teachings of the invention can be applied to various product containers, which may or may not be tapered and/or cylindrical. Exemplary containers include bottles (for example metallic, glass or plastics bottles), cans (for example aluminum cans), tins, pouches, packets, and the like.

The blanks 10; 110; 210; 310; 410; 510 are formed from a sheet of suitable substrate. It is to be understood that, as used herein, the term "suitable substrate” includes all manner of foldable sheet material such as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, and the like. It should be recognized that one or other numbers of blanks may be employed, where suitable, for example, to provide the carrier structure described in more detail below.

The packaging structures or cartons described herein may be formed from a sheet material such as paperboard, which may be made of or coated with materials to increase its strength. An example of such a sheet material is tear-resistant NATRALOCK® paperboard made by WestRock Company. It should be noted that the tear resistant materials may be provided by more than one layer, to help improve the tear-resistance of the package. Typically, one surface of the sheet material may have different characteristics to the other surface. For example, the surface of the sheet material that faces outwardly from a finished package may be particularly smooth and may have a coating such as a clay coating or other surface treatment to provide good printability. The surface of the sheet material that faces inwardly may, on the other hand, be provided with a coating, a layer, a treatment or be otherwise prepared to provide properties such as one or more of tear-resistance, good glue-ability, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties.

In the illustrated embodiments, the blanks 10; 110; 210; 310; 410; 510 are configured to form a carton or carrier 90; 190; 290; 390; 590 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles B. In the embodiments illustrated in Figures 1 to 9, the arrangement is a 2 x 3 matrix or array -two rows of three articles B are provided and the articles B are beverage cans. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 10 to 13, the arrangement is a 2 x 2 matrix or array -two rows of two articles B are provided and the articles B are beverage cans. Alternatively, the blanks 10; 110; 210; 310; 410; 510 can be configured to form a carrier for packaging other types, number, and size of articles and/or for packaging articles in a different arrangement or configuration.

Referring to Figure 1 there is shown a blank 10 comprising a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26 including a main panel 24 for forming an engaging panel of a carrier 90 (see Figure 2).

The blank 10 includes a first outer side panel 12 hingedly connected to a first side of a top or cover panel 14 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 13. The blank 10 includes a second outer side panel 16 hingedly connected to a second side of the cover panel 14 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 15. The blank 10 includes a connecting panel 18 hingedly connected to the second outer side panel 16 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 17. The connecting panel 18 is hingedly connected to a reinforcing panel 20 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 19. The blank 10 comprises first inner end panel 28A hingedly connected to a first end of the reinforcing panel 20, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 25A, and second inner end panel 28B hingedly connected to a second end of the reinforcing panel 20, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 25B. The blank 10 comprises first inner side panel portions 22 hingedly connected to a first side of the engaging panel 24, by hinged connections in the form of a fold lines 21 , and a second inner side panel 26 hingedly connected to a second side of the engaging panel 24, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 23.

The blank 10 comprises first outer end panel 30A hingedly connected to a first end of the engaging panel 24, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 27A, and second outer end panel 30B hingedly connected to a second end of the engaging panel 24, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 27B. The first and second outer end panels 30A, 30B are hingedly connected to a respective one of the first and second inner end panel 28A, 28B by a pair of collinear fold lines F1. The reinforcing panel 20 is hingedly connected to the engaging panel 24 by hinged connections F2 which are collinear with the pair of collinear fold lines F1 .

The pair of collinear fold lines F1 and hinged connections F2 are offset with respect to the fold lines 21 hinging the first inner side panel portions 22 to the engaging panel 24.

The engaging panel 24 includes at least one article retention structure ORTi, ORT2. In the illustrated embodiment, the engaging panel 24 comprises a plurality of article retention structures ORT1, ORT2 specifically six article retention structures ORT1, ORT2 arranged in 3 x 2 matrix or array. The engaging panel 24 comprises three columns of article retention structures ORT1, ORT2, each column comprises two article retention structures ORT1, ORT2. The engaging panel 24 comprises two rows of article retention structures ORT1, ORT2, each row comprises three article retention structures ORT1, ORT2. Each of the article retention structures ORT1, ORT2 may comprise an aperture A5, A6.

The reinforcing panel 20 includes at least one article engaging structure IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4. In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcing panel 20 comprises a plurality of article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4 specifically six article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4 arranged in 3 x 2 matrix or array. The reinforcing panel 20 comprises three columns of article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4. Each column comprises two article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4. The reinforcing panel 20 comprises two rows of article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4, each row comprises three article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4. Each of the article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4 may comprise an aperture A1 , A2, A3, A4.

Each article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4 in the reinforcing panel 20 is configured to be disposed in vertical alignment with a respective one of the article retention structures ORT1, ORT2 in the engaging panel 24.

The engaging panel 24 comprises four first article retention structures ORT1. The first article retention structures ORT 1 are located adjacent to ends of the engaging panel 24. The engaging panel 24 comprises two second article retention structures ORT2. The second article retention structures ORT2 are located between a first pair of first article retention structures ORT 1 disposed proximate a first end of the engaging panel 24 and a second pair of first article retention structures ORT1 disposed proximate a second end of the engaging panel 24. The second article retention structures ORT2 are also referred to herein as intermediate article retention structures ORT2. The first article retention structures ORT1 are also referred to herein as end article retention structures ORT1. Each of the first article retention structures ORTi is substantially similar in construction and will therefore be described in detail with reference to a first one of the first article retention structures ORTi located adjacent to a first end of the blank 10 as shown in Figure 1. The first article retention structure ORTi comprises an article receiving opening defined in part by an aperture A5. The first article retention structure ORTi comprises a plurality of engaging teeth 64, 66, 68 disposed about the aperture A5. The first article retention structure ORTi comprises a pair of tabs 60, 62 defining in part the aperture A5 and disposed about the perimeter thereof.

The plurality of engaging teeth 64, 66, 68 are hinged to the main panel 12 by a fold line. The fold line may be defined by a plurality of cutlines 63, 65. The plurality of cutlines 63, 65 may define or approximate a circle or at least a portion thereof.

The first article retention structure ORTi comprises a first tab 60, the first tab 60 is struck from material which would otherwise form the engaging panel 24 and is integral with a first inner side panel portion 22, the first tab 60 is defined, at least in part by a pair of cutlines 61 defining side edges of the first tab 60. The pair of cutlines 61 extend from the aperture A5 to the fold line 21 between the engaging panel 24 and the first inner side panel portion 22 from which the first tab 60 extends.

The first article retention structure ORTi comprises a second tab 62, the second tab 62 is struck from material which would otherwise form the engaging panel 24 and is integral with a first outer end panel 30A, the second tab 62 is defined, at least in part by a pair of cutlines 69 defining side edges of the second tab 62. The pair of cutlines 69 extend from the aperture A5 to the fold line 27A between the engaging panel 24 and the first outer end panel 30A from which the second tab 62 extends. The second tab 62 is oriented orthogonally to the first tab 60.

The first article retention structure ORTi comprises a plurality of first engaging teeth 64 disposed about the aperture A5. Each of the plurality of first teeth 64 comprises an engaging edge opposing a hinged edge. The engaging edges are defined by a linear portion of a cutline defining the aperture A5. Each engaging edge defines a part of a polygon. The illustrated embodiment comprises eight first teeth 64. Each first tooth 64 comprises a pair of side edges, the side edges are defined by cutlines 67 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 cutline defining the aperture A5. The cutlines 67 are divergently arranged with respect to each other and define an angle therebetween, the angle may be about 22.5°.

The first article retention structure ORTi comprises a pair of second engaging teeth 66 disposed about the aperture A5. The pair of second engaging teeth 66 are disposed on opposing sides of the first tab 60. Each second engaging tooth 66 is defined in part by one of the cutlines 61 and in part by a cutline 67.

The first article retention structure ORT 1 comprises a pair of third engaging teeth 68 disposed about the aperture A5. The pair of third engaging teeth 66 are disposed on opposing sides of the second tab 62. Each third engaging tooth 68 is defined in part by one of the cutlines 69 and in part by a cutline 67. The first article retention structure ORTi comprises one second engaging tooth 66 and one third engaging tooth 68 between the first and second tabs 60, 62.

Each second engaging tooth 66 is larger or wider than the first teeth 64, that is to say they occupy an angular dimension greater than that of the first teeth 64 or greater portion of the perimeter of the aperture A5 than the first teeth 64. Each third engaging tooth 68 is smaller or narrower than the first teeth 64, that is to say they occupy an angular dimension less than that of the first teeth 64 or lesser portion of the perimeter of the aperture A5 than the first teeth 64.

The first article retention structure ORTi comprises a plurality of first circumferential cutlines 63. Each of the plurality of first circumferential cutlines 63 is aligned with one of the radial cutlines 67 such that said one of the radial cutlines 67 or a notional extension thereof bisects a respective one of the plurality of first circumferential cutlines 63.

Each of the plurality of first circumferential cutlines 63 is spaced apart from said one of the radial cutlines 67 bisecting it so as to define a connecting nick or bridge portion between a pair of adjacently disposed teeth 64, 66, 68. Each of the plurality of first circumferential cutlines 63 may be linear in shape. In alternative embodiments, each of the plurality of first circumferential cutlines 63 may be arcuate or curved.

The first article retention structure ORTi comprises a plurality of second circumferential cutlines 65. Each of the plurality of second circumferential cutlines 65 is disposed between a pair of the plurality of first circumferential cutlines 63 and is spaced apart therefrom so as to define a pair of connecting nick or bridge portions between each tooth 64, 66, 68 and the engaging panel 24. The pair of connecting nick or bridge portions provide a hinged or foldable connection between each tooth 64, 66, 68 and the engaging panel 24.

Each of the plurality of second circumferential cutlines 65 may be linear in shape. In alternative embodiments, each of the plurality of second circumferential cutlines 65 may be arcuate or curved. The first and second tabs 60, 62 may engage an article B received in first article retention structure ORTi, the tabs 60, 62 do not support or bear the load (or part thereof) of the article B. The first and second tabs 60, 62 may facilitate folding of the side and end panels 22, 26, 30A, 30B and/or may improve retention of the side and end panels 22, 26, 30A, 30B in a folded condition.

Each of the second article retention structures ORT2 is substantially similar in construction and will therefore be described in detail with reference to a first one of the second article retention structures ORT2 located adjacent to the first one of the first article retention structures ORTi as shown in Figure 1. The second article retention structure ORT2 comprises an article receiving opening defined in part by a second aperture A6. The second article retention structure RT2 comprises a plurality of teeth 64, 66 disposed about the second aperture A6. The second article retention structures ORT2 are substantially similar in construction to the first article retention structures ORT 1 albeit with the omission of the second tab 62 and the pair of third teeth 68, which are replaced by an additional three first teeth 64.

The reinforcing panel 20 comprises two first article engaging structures IRT1. The first article engaging structures IRT1 are located adjacent to ends of the reinforcing panel 20 and are adjacent to the connecting panel 18. The blank 10 comprises one second article engaging structure IRT2. The second article engaging structure IRT2 is located between the pair of first article engaging structures IRT1 and is disposed proximate or adjacent to the connecting panel 18. The second article engaging structures IRT2 is also referred to herein as a full intermediate article engaging structures IRT2. The first article engaging structures IRT1 are also referred to herein as full end article engaging structures IRT1. The reinforcing panel 20 comprises two third article engaging structures IRT3. The third article engaging structures IRT3 are located adjacent to ends of the reinforcing panel 20 and are adjacent to the engaging panel 24. The blank 10 comprises one fourth article engaging structure IRT4. The fourth article engaging structure IRT4 is located between the pair of third article engaging structures IRT3 and is disposed proximate or adjacent to the engaging panel 24. The fourth article engaging structure IRT4 is also referred to herein as a partial intermediate article engaging structures IRT4. The third article engaging structures IRT3 are also referred to herein as partial end article engaging structures IRT3.

Each of the first article engaging structures IRT1 comprises an aperture A1 struck from or defined within the reinforcing panel 20. The aperture A1 is defined in part by an undulating or wavy cutline E1. The wavy cutline E1 defines a plurality of minor tabs T_a and a plurality of recesses or indents T_r. A recess T_r is disposed between or spaces apart a pair of tabs T_a. The wavy cutline E1 can be considered to be is superimposed upon a notional circular line; that is to say an appropriately dimensioned notional circular line can be concentrically arranged with respect to the wavy cutline E1 and touch or intersect the wavy cutline E1 periodically. For example, but not limited to, a notional line can be arranged to be disposed in touching contact with the crests of the tabs T_a or troughs of the recesses T_r.

Each of the first article engaging structures IRT 1 comprises a first major tab 40, the first major tab 40 is struck from material which would otherwise form the reinforcing panel 20 and is integral with the connecting panel 18. The first major tab 40 is defined, at least in part by a pair of cutlines 41 defining side edges of the first major tab 40. The pair of cutlines 41 extend from the aperture A1 to the fold line 19 between the reinforcing panel 20 and the connecting panel 18 from which the first major tab 40 extends.

Each of the first article engaging structures IRT 1 comprises a second major tab 42, the second major tab 42 is struck from material which would otherwise form the reinforcing panel 20 and is integral with one of the inner end panels 28A, 28B. The second major tab 42 is defined, at least in part by a pair of cutlines 49 defining side edges of the second major tab 42. The pair of cutlines 49 extend from the aperture A1 to the respective fold line 25A, 25B between the reinforcing panel 20 and said one of the inner end panels 28A, 28B from which the second major tab 42 extends.

Each of the first article engaging structures IRT 1 comprises a pair of third major tabs 44, a third major tab 44 is disposed on opposing sides of the first major tab 40; the first major tab 40 spaces apart the pair of third major tabs 44. The first major tab 40 and the pair of third major tabs 44 each comprise a free edge, the free edges defining a portion of the aperture A1 . The free edge of first major tab 40 is linear and the free edge of each of the pair of third major tabs 44 comprises a linear portion, said linear portions being collinear with the linear free edge of first major tab 40.

Each of the first article engaging structures IRT1 comprises a pair of fourth major tabs 46, a fourth major tab 46 is disposed on opposing sides of the second major tab 42; the second major tab 42 spaces apart the pair of fourth major tabs 46. The second major tab 42 and the pair of fourth major tabs 46 each comprise a free edge, the free edges defining a portion of the aperture A1 . The free edge of second major tab 42 is linear and the free edge of each of the pair of fourth major tabs 46 comprises a linear portion, said linear portions being collinear with the linear free edge of second major tab 42.

The second major tab 42 and the pair of fourth major tabs 46 are oriented orthogonally to the first major tab 40 and the pair of third major tabs 44.

A portion of the undulating or wavy cutline E1 is disposed between a first one of the pair of third major tabs 44 and first one of the pair of fourth major tabs 46 adjacently disposed to said one of the pair of third major tabs 44. The portion of the undulating or wavy cutline E1 defines a minor tab T_a and a pair of recesses T_r between said third major tab 44 and said fourth major tab 46.

A second portion of the undulating or wavy cutline E1 is disposed between the other one of the pair of third major tabs 44 and the other one of the pair of fourth major tabs 46. The second portion of the undulating or wavy cutline E1 defines nine minor tabs T_a and ten recesses T_r between said other third major tab 44 and said other fourth major tab 46.

The second article engaging structure IRT2 is substantially similar in construction to the first article engaging structures IRT1 albeit with the omission of the second major tab 42 and the pair of fourth major tabs 46, which are replaced by an additional section of undulating or wavy cutline E2. The second article engaging structure IRT2 comprises an aperture A2 struck from or defined within the reinforcing panel 20.

The third article engaging structures IRT3 are similar in construction to the first article engaging structures IRT1 albeit interrupted by the one of the first inner side panel portions 22 and by a portion of the engaging panel 24, specifically a portion comprising the one of first or second article retention structure ORT1, ORT2. Each of the third article engaging structures IRT3 comprises an aperture A3 struck from or defined within the reinforcing panel 20. The third article engaging structures IRT3 each comprise a second major tab 42 and a fourth major tab 46. The second major tab 42 is struck from material which would otherwise form the reinforcing panel 20 and is integral with one of the inner end panels 28A, 28B. The second major tab 42 is defined, at least in part by a pair of cutlines 49 defining side edges of the second major tab 42. The pair of cutlines 49, one of which extends from the aperture A3 to the respective fold line 25A, 25B between the reinforcing panel 20 and said one of the inner end panels 28A, 28B from which the second major tab 42 extends. Said one of the pair of cutlines 49 separates the second major tab 42 from the fourth major tab 46. The second major tab 42 and the fourth major tab 46 each comprise a free edge, the free edges define a portion of the aperture A1 . A portion of the free edge of the second major tab 42 is defined by a cutline separating the second major tab 42 from the first inner side panel portion 22 interrupting the third article engaging structure IRT3. The free edge of second major tab 42 is linear and the free edge of each of the fourth major tab 46 comprises a linear portion, said linear portion being collinear with the linear free edge of second major tab 42.

The third article engaging structures IRT3 each comprise an undulating or wavy cutline. The wavy cutline extends from the engaging panel 24 to a fourth major tab 46, again the wavy cutline follows or is superimposed upon a notional circular line.

The fourth article engaging structure IRT4 is similar in construction to the second article engaging structure IRT2 albeit interrupted by the one of the first inner side panel portions 22 and by a portion of the engaging panel 24. The interruption has the effect of removing the first major tab 40 spaces apart the pair of third major tabs 44. The fourth article engaging structure IRT4 comprises an aperture A4 struck from or defined within the reinforcing panel 20. The fourth article engaging structure IRT4 comprises a wavy cutline, defining the aperture A4, extending from a first portion of the engaging panel 24, disposed on a first side of said first inner side panel portion 22, to a second portion of the engaging panel 24 disposed on a second, opposing, side of said first inner side panel portion 22.

The blank 10 may comprise a handle structure H1 , H2. The handle structure H1 , H2 comprises a handle opening defined at least in part by a handle aperture A7. A first portion H1 of the handle structure H1 , H2 is provided in the top or cover panel 14. The handle opening is disposed on a longitudinal axis bisecting the top or cover panel 14. The handle opening is vertically aligned with portions H2 of the handle structure H1 , H2 provided in the reinforcing panel 20 and in the engaging panel 24. The handle opening may be defined in part by at least one foldable tab 50. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle opening is defined in part by a pair of foldable tabs 50, the pair of foldable tabs 50 being spaced apart, longitudinally, by the handle aperture A7. Each of the pair of foldable tabs 50 is struck from, or defined in, the cover panel 14 and is hingedly connected thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 51. A first one of the pair of foldable tabs 50 is hinged in opposition to the second one of the pair of foldable tabs 50; the hinged connections, fold lines 51 , defining opposed ends of the handle opening.

The foldable tabs 50 form locking tabs 50 for securing the cover panel 14 to the engaging panel 24 and/or the reinforcing panel 20. The locking tabs 50 comprise a pair of cuts 53. The pair of cuts 53 extend inwardly of the tabs 50 from opposed side edges thereof. Each of the pair of cuts may be non-linear or curvilinear in shape. The cuts 53 define barbs or shoulders of the tab 50 for engaging with portions the engaging panel 24 and/or the reinforcing panel 20 surrounding openings therein.

The reinforcing panel 20 comprises a receiver H2 in the form of an opening for receiving a locking tab 50. The illustrated embodiment comprises a pair of openings each for receiving a respective one of the pair of locking tabs 50. A first one of the pair of openings is centrally disposed between a group of four article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4. A second one of the pair of openings is centrally disposed between a second group of four article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4.

Each opening may be defined by a plurality of flaps 70A, 70B, 72 (also referred to herein as female tabs or receiving tabs), each struck from, or defined in the reinforcing panel 20 and hingedly connected thereto by a respective hinged connection in the form of a fold line 71 A, 71 B, 73. The plurality of flaps 70A, 70B, 72 comprises a pair of flaps 70A, 70B disposed side by side and separated from each other by a cutline 75. The pair of flaps 70A, 70B are hingedly connected to the reinforcing panel 20 by a pair of divergently arranged fold lines 71 A, 71 B. Each of the pair of flaps 70A, 70B is substantially triangular in shape. The plurality of flaps 70A, 70B, 72 comprises a third flap 72, the third flap 72 is hingedly connected to the reinforcing panel 20 by a fold line 73, the fold line 73 is oriented perpendicularly to the cutline 75 separating the pair of flaps 70A, 70B. The third flap 72 may be generally rectangular in shape and may be substantially “D” shaped. The third flap 72 shares a common cutline 77 with each of the pair of flaps 70A, 70B, the cutline 77 defining a free edge of the third flap 72, the free edge opposing a hinged edge defined by the fold line 73. The third flap 72 is shorter in height than the maximum height dimension of the pair of flaps 70A, 70B. In this way, the plurality of flaps 70A, 70B, 72 define a generally arrowhead shaped opening in the reinforcing panel 20.

The engaging panel 24 comprises a receiver H2 in the form of an opening for receiving a locking tab 50. The illustrated embodiment comprises a pair of openings each for receiving a respective one of the pair of locking tabs 50. A first one of the pair of openings is centrally disposed between a group of four article retention structures ORTi, ORT2. A second one of the pair of openings is centrally disposed between a second group of four article retention structures ORT1, ORT2. Each opening is substantially the same in construction as the receiver openings in the reinforcing panel 20 and will not be described in further detail. Each opening in the engaging panel 24 is vertically aligned with an opening in the reinforcing panel 20 and forms part of the handle structure H1 , H2. The openings in the engaging panel 24 and reinforcing panel 20 are in vertical alignment with the handle opening in the top panel 14. A user may insert one or more fingers through the handle opening in top panel 14 and through the openings in the reinforcing panel 20 and engaging panel 24 to carry the carrier 90. A user may insert at least two fingers through the handle opening in top panel 14, at least one finger may by inserted in a first pair of aligned openings in the reinforcing panel 20 and engaging panel 24 and at least one finger may by inserted in a second pair of aligned openings in the reinforcing panel 20 and engaging panel 24. The elongate shape of the handle opening in the top panel 14, facilitates access and viewing of the openings in the reinforcing panel 20 and engaging panel 24 below such that user can readily engage the reinforcing panel 20 and engaging panel 24. Providing the handle aperture A7 between the locking tabs 50 creates the elongate handle opening and has the effect of coupling an opening provided by a first locking tab 50 with an opening provided by a second locking tab 50.

Turning to the construction of the article carrier 90 as illustrated in Figure 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 engaging panel 24 is folded about fold lines F1 , F2 to bring the engaging panel 24 in face contacting relationship with the reinforcing panel 20. The article retention structures ORT1, ORT2 in the engaging panel 24 are aligned with a respective one of the article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4 in the reinforcing panel 20. In some embodiments glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to one or both of the engaging panel 24 and reinforcing panel 20 prior to folding the blank 10 about fold lines F1 , F2, in this way the engaging panel 24 may be secured to the reinforcing panel 20.

The blank 10, in the folded condition, is lowered with respect to a group of articles B. An article B is received in each of the article retention structures ORT1, ORT2 and is associated article engaging structure IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4.

When the articles B are received the tabs 40, 42, 60 62 are displaced out of the plane of the respective one of the engaging panel 24 or reinforcing panel 20 from which they are struck. In doing so the end panels 28A, 28B, 30A, 30B are folded with respect to the respective one of the engaging panel 24 or reinforcing panel 20 to which they are hinged.

The engaging teeth 64, 66, 68 are displaced out of the plane of the engaging panel 24 and engage with an article B. The engaging teeth 64, 66, 68 engage below a flange, lip, undercut or other suitable projection provided on the article B. In some embodiments the engaging teeth 64, 66, 68 engage a chime or end seam of the article B.

The blank 10 is folded about fold line 17 to bring the second outer side panel 16 in to face contacting relationship with second inner side panel 26 and overlying relationship with the connecting panel 18. The second inner side panel 26 being sandwiched or disposed between second outer side panel 16 and the connecting panel 18.

The blank 10 is folded about fold line 15 to dispose the cover panel 14 over the upper ends of the article B which have passed through the reinforcing panel 20 and the engaging panel 24.

The locking tabs 50 are pressed inwardly of the carton interior in doing so the plurality of flaps 70A, 70B, 72 are displaced out of the plane of the engaging panel 24 or reinforcing panel 20 to which they are hinged. Each locking tabs 50 is received in one of the receiver openings and engages with the engaging panel 24 and/or reinforcing panel 20 to secure the cover panel 14 in position.

Glue or other suitable adhesive treatment is applied to the first inner panel portions 22. In alternative embodiments adhesive may be applied to a corresponding inner surface of the first outer side panel 12.

The blank 10 is folded about fold line 13 to bring the first outer side panel 12 into face contacting relationship with each of the first inner panel portions 22. The first outer side panel 12 is secured to each of the first inner panel portions 22. The assembled article carrier 90 is shown in Figure 2.

Referring now to Figures 3 to 13, there are shown additional embodiments of the present disclosure. In the second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth illustrated embodiments like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix "100”, "200”; "300”; "400”; "500” to indicate that these features belong to the second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth embodiment, respectively. The additional embodiments share many common features with the first embodiment and therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 will be described in detail.

Figure 3 shows a blank 110 according to a second embodiment, the blank 110 comprises a plurality of panels

112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122A, 122B, 124, 126 hinged one to the next in a linear series by respective fold lines

113, 115, 117, 119, 121A, 121 B, 121C, 123.

The blank 1 10 includes a first outer side panel 1 12 hingedly connected to a first side of a top or cover panel 114 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 1 13. The blank 110 includes a second outer side panel 116 hingedly connected to a second side of the cover panel 114 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 115.

The blank 110 includes a first side reinforcing panel 118 hingedly connected to the second outer side panel 116 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 117. The first side reinforcing panel 118 is hingedly connected to a first side edge of a reinforcing panel 120 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 119. A second side reinforcing panel 122A is hingedly connected to an opposing side edge of the reinforcing panel 120 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 121 A.

The blank 110 comprises first inner end panel 128A hingedly connected to a first end of the reinforcing panel 120, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 125A, and second inner end panel 128B hingedly connected to a second end of the reinforcing panel 120, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 125B. The blank 110 comprises a first inner side panel 122B hingedly connected to a first side of an engaging panel 124, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 121C, and a second inner side panel 126 hingedly connected to a second side of the engaging panel 124, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 123. The first inner side panel 122B is hingedly connected to the second side reinforcing panel 122A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 121 B.

The blank 110 comprises first outer end panel 130A hingedly connected to a first end of the engaging panel 124, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 127A, and second outer end panel 130B hingedly connected to a second end of the engaging panel 124, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 127B.

The blank 110 differs from the blank 10 of Figure 1 in that the reinforcing panel 120 is a full width panel, that is to say it extends fully across the engaging panel 124 whereas in Figure 1 the reinforcing panel 20 is a partial width panel, extending across a portion of the engaging panel 24.

The engaging panel 124 includes at least one article retention structure ORTi, ORT2. In the illustrated embodiment, the engaging panel 124 comprises a plurality of article retention structures ORT1, ORT2 specifically six article retention structures ORT1, ORT2 arranged in 3 x 2 matrix or array. The engaging panel 124 comprises three columns of article retention structures ORT1, ORT2, each column comprises two article retention structures ORT1, ORT2. The engaging panel 124 comprises two rows of article retention structures ORT1, ORT2, each row comprises three article retention structures ORT1, ORT2. Each of the article retention structures ORT 1, ORT2 may comprise an aperture A5, A6.

Each of the first article retention structures ORT 1 of the blank 110 shown in Figure 3 is substantially the same in construction as the respective first article retention structures ORT1 of the blank 10 shown in Figure 1 , and described above; albeit the first article retention structures ORT1 comprise a plurality of teeth 164, 166, 168, 174 disposed about the first aperture A5, the plurality of teeth 164, 166, 168, 174 includes at least one fourth engaging tooth 174. The illustrated embodiment comprises a plurality of fourth engaging teeth 174, specifically, but not limited to, three fourth engaging teeth 174. Each of the fourth engaging teeth 174 may be disposed between a pair of first, second or third engaging teeth, or any combination thereof. The fourth engaging teeth 174 have a larger height or radial dimension than the first, second, and third engaging teeth 164, 166, 168. That is to say they comprise a free or engaging edge disposed opposite a hinged edge, the free edge of the fourth engaging teeth being disposed a greater distance from its respective hinged edge than the distance the free edge of a first, second or third engaging teeth 164, 166, 168 is disposed from its hinged edge. In the illustrated embodiment, the fourth engaging teeth 174 are located about an inner of the first aperture A5, or centrally or medially disposed region of the engaging panel 124.

Each of the second article retention structures ORT2 of the blank 110 shown in Figure 3 is substantially the same in construction as the respective second article retention structures ORT2 of the blank 10 shown in Figure 1 , and described above, albeit the second article retention structures ORT2 comprise a plurality of teeth 164, 166, 174 disposed about the second aperture A6, the plurality of teeth 164, 166, 174 includes at least one fourth engaging tooth 174. The illustrated embodiment comprises a plurality of fourth engaging teeth 174, specifically, but not limited to, three fourth engaging teeth 174. The reinforcing panel 120 includes at least one article engaging structure IRTi, IRT2. In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcing panel 120 comprises a plurality of article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2 specifically six article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2 arranged in 3 x 2 matrix or array. The reinforcing panel 120 comprises three columns of article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2, each column comprises two article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2. The reinforcing panel 120 comprises two rows of article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2, each row comprises three article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2. Each of the article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2 may comprise an aperture A1 , A2.

The reinforcing panel 120 comprises four first article engaging structures IRT1. The first article engaging structures IRT1 are located adjacent to ends of the reinforcing panel 120. The blank 110 comprises two second article engaging structure IRT2. The second article engaging structures IRT2 are located between a first pair of first article engaging structures IRT1 disposed proximate a first end of the reinforcing panel 120 and a second pair of first article engaging structures IRT1 disposed proximate a second, opposing, end of the reinforcing panel 120. The second article engaging structures IRT2 is also referred to herein as intermediate article engaging structures IRT2. The first article engaging structures IRT1 are also referred to herein as end article engaging structures IRT1.

Each of the first article engaging structures IRT1 of the blank 110 shown in Figure 3 is substantially the same in construction as the respective first article engaging structures IRT1 of the blank 10 shown in Figure 1 , and described above, and will not be described in further detail.

Each of the second article engaging structures IRT2 of the blank 110 shown in Figure 3 is substantially the same in construction as the respective second article engaging structures IRT2 of the blank 10 shown in Figure 1 , and described above, and will not be described in further detail.

The blank 110 is assembled into a carrier 190 in substantially the same manner as the blank 10 of Figure 1 , an assembled carrier 190 is shown in Figure 4. It will be appreciated that glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to one or both of the engaging panel 124 and reinforcing panel 120 prior to folding the blank 110 about fold line 121 B, in this way the engaging panel 124 may be secured to the reinforcing panel 120. Glue or other adhesive treatment may also be applied to one or both of the second side reinforcing panel 122A and first inner side panel 122B to secure them to each other.

Glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to the first inner side panel 122B to secure the first outer side panel 112 to the first inner side panel 122B. The glue may be applied in the region of the first tabs 160.

Figure 5 shows a blank 210 according to a third embodiment for forming a carrier 290 as shown in Figure 7, the blank 210 comprises an engaging panel 224 and a reinforcing panel 220.

The blank 210 includes a first side reinforcing panel 218 hingedly connected to a first side edge of the reinforcing panel 220 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 219. A second side reinforcing panel 222A is hingedly connected to an opposing side edge of the reinforcing panel 220 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 221 A.

The blank 210 comprises first inner end panel 228A hingedly connected to a first end of the reinforcing panel 220, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 225A, and second inner end panel 228B hingedly connected to a second end of the reinforcing panel 220, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 225B. The blank 210 comprises a first side panel 222B hingedly connected to a first side of an engaging panel 224, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 221 C, and a second side panel 226 hingedly connected to a second side of the engaging panel 224, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 223. The first side panel 222B is hingedly connected to the second side reinforcing panel 222A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 221 B.

The blank 210 comprises first outer end panel 230A hingedly connected to a first end of the engaging panel 224, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 227A, and second outer end panel 230B hingedly connected to a second end of the engaging panel 224, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 227B.

The engaging panel 224 includes at least one article retention structure ORTi, ORT2. In the illustrated embodiment, the engaging panel 224 comprises a plurality of article retention structures ORT1, ORT2 specifically six article retention structures ORT1, ORT2 arranged in 3 x 2 matrix or array. The engaging panel 224 comprises three columns of article retention structures ORT1, ORT2, each column comprises two article retention structures ORT1, ORT2. The engaging panel 224 comprises two rows of article retention structures ORT1, ORT2, each row comprises three article retention structures ORT1, ORT2. Each of the article retention structures ORT 1, ORT2 may comprise an aperture A5, A6. Each of the article retention structures ORT1, ORT2 of the blank 210 shown in Figure 5 is substantially the same in construction as the respective article retention structures ORT1, ORT2 of the blank 10 shown in Figure 1 , and described above, and will not be described in further detail.

The reinforcing panel 220 includes at least one article engaging structure IRT1, IRT2. In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcing panel 220 comprises a plurality of article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2 specifically six article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2 arranged in 3 x 2 matrix or array. The reinforcing panel 220 comprises three columns of article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2, each column comprises two article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2. The reinforcing panel 220 comprises two rows of article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2, each row comprises three article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2. Each of the article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2 may comprise an aperture A1 , A2. Each of the article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2 of the blank 210 shown in Figure 5 is substantially the same in construction as the respective article engaging structure IRT1, IRT2 of the blank 110 shown in Figure 3, and described above, and will not be described in further detail.

The blank 210 comprises a handle structure, the handle structure comprises a first handle element H3 provided in the reinforcing panel 220 and a second handle element H4 provided in the engaging panel 224. The illustrated blank comprises a pair of first handle elements H3 and a pair of second handle elements H4. Each of the first handle elements H3 is disposed centrally between a group of four article engaging structure IRT1, IRT2. Each of the second handle elements H4 is disposed centrally between a group of four article retention structures ORT1, ORT2. Each first handle element H3 comprises a handle or finger opening, the finger opening may be defined, at least in part, by a pair of handle tabs 270A, 270B. Each handle tab 270A, 270B is substantially triangular in shape. The pair of handle tabs 270A, 270B are separated from each other by a cutline 275. Each handle tab 270A, 270B is hinged connected to the reinforcing panel 220 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 271 A, 271 B. The fold lines 271 A, 271 B are divergently arranged with respect to each other. Each second handle element H4 comprises a handle or finger opening, the finger opening may be defined, at least in part, by a pair of second handle tabs. Each second handle tab is substantially triangular in shape. The pair of second handle tabs are separated from each other by a cutline. Each second handle tab is hinged connected to the reinforcing panel 220 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The fold lines are divergently arranged with respect to each other. Each second handle tab may comprise a fold line 279 spaced apart from its hinged connection to the engaging panel 224 and parallel to the fold line defining said hinged connection.

Figure 6 shows the blank 210 folded about fold line 221 B to bring the reinforcing panel 220 into face contacting relationship with the engaging panel 224. The recesses T_r are aligned with the cutlines 267 separating the engaging teeth 264. The crests of the tabs T_a are aligned with the center or middle of the engaging teeth 264. Glue or other adhesive treatment may be employed to secure the reinforcing panel 220 and the engaging panel 224 in face contacting relationship with each other prior to application of the carrier 290 to the articles B. Figure 7 show a package comprising the article carrier 290, formed from the blank 210, in engagement with a group of articles B.

Figure 8 shows a blank 310 according to a fourth embodiment for forming a carrier 390 (as shown in Figures 8A and 8B), the blank 310 comprises an engaging panel 324 and a reinforcing panel 320.

The blank 310 includes a first side reinforcing panel 318 hingedly connected to a first side edge of the reinforcing panel 320 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 319. A second side reinforcing panel 322A is hingedly connected to an opposing side edge of the reinforcing panel 320 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 321 A.

The blank 310 comprises first inner end panel 328A hingedly connected to a first end of the reinforcing panel 320, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 325A, and second inner end panel 328B hingedly connected to a second end of the reinforcing panel 320, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 325B.

The blank 310 comprises a first side panel 322B hingedly connected to a first side of an engaging panel 324, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 321 C, and a second side panel 326 hingedly connected to a second side of the engaging panel 324, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 323. The first side panel 322B is hingedly connected to the second side reinforcing panel 322A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 321 B.

The blank 310 comprises first outer end panel 330A hingedly connected to a first end of the engaging panel 324, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 327A, and second outer end panel 330B hingedly connected to a second end of the engaging panel 324, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 327B.

The engaging panel 324 includes at least one article retention structure ORT3, ORT4. In the illustrated embodiment, the engaging panel 324 comprises a plurality of article retention structures ORT3, ORT4 specifically six article retention structures ORT3, ORT4 arranged in 3 x 2 matrix or array. The engaging panel 324 comprises three columns of article retention structures ORT3, ORT4, each column comprises two article retention structures ORT3, ORT4. The engaging panel 324 comprises two rows of article retention structures ORT3, ORT4, each row comprises three article retention structures ORT3, ORT4. Each of the article retention structures ORT3, ORT4 may comprise an aperture A5, A6. Each of the article retention structures ORT3, ORT4 of the blank 310 shown in Figure 8 is substantially the same in construction as the respective article retention structures ORT3, ORT4 of the blank 210 shown in Figure 5, and described above, albeit the article retention structures ORT3, ORT4 comprise at least one fourth engaging tooth 374.

The first article retention structures ORT3 comprises a plurality of teeth 364, 366, 368, 374 disposed about a first aperture A5. The plurality of teeth 364, 366, 368, 374 comprises at least one fourth engaging tooth 374, the illustrated embodiment comprises a plurality of fourth engaging teeth 374, specifically, but not limited to, two fourth engaging teeth 374. The pair of fourth engaging teeth 374 are spaced apart by at least one first engaging tooth 364. In the illustrated embodiment, pair of fourth engaging teeth 374 are spaced apart by three first engaging teeth 364. Each of the fourth engaging teeth 374 is defined in part by a pair of radial cutlines 381. Each of the pair of radial cutlines 381 terminates with a curved cut or "J” shaped cut. Each of the fourth engaging teeth 374 is hingedly connected to the engaging panel 324 by a hinged connection defined in part by a cutline 373 disposed medially between the pair of radial cutlines 381 .

The second article retention structures ORT4 comprises a plurality of teeth 364, 366, 374 disposed about a second aperture A6. The plurality of teeth 364, 366, 374 comprises at least one fourth engaging tooth 374, the illustrated embodiment comprises a plurality of fourth engaging teeth 374, specifically, but not limited to, three fourth engaging teeth 374. Pairs of fourth engaging teeth 374 are spaced apart from each other by at least one first engaging tooth 364, in the illustrated embodiment, by two first engaging teeth 364. Each of the fourth engaging teeth 374 is defined in part by a pair of radial cutlines 381 . Each of the pair of radial cutlines 381 terminates with a curved cut or "J” shaped cut. Each of the fourth engaging teeth 374 is hingedly connected to the engaging panel 324 by a hinged connection defined in part by a cutline 373 disposed medially between the pair of radial cutlines 381.

The reinforcing panel 320 includes at least one article engaging structure IRT1, IRT2. In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcing panel 320 comprises a plurality of article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2 specifically six article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2 arranged in 3 x 2 matrix or array. The reinforcing panel 320 comprises three columns of article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2, each column comprises two article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2. The reinforcing panel 320 comprises two rows of article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2, each row comprises three article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2. Each of the article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2 may comprise an aperture A1 , A2. Each of the article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2 of the blank 310 shown in Figure 8 is substantially the same in construction as the respective article engaging structure IRT1, IRT2 of the blank 110 shown in Figure 3, and described above, albeit the article engaging structures IRT1, IRT2 comprise at least one tooth 348 hingedly connected to the reinforcing panel 320 by a hinged connection defined in part by a cutline 349. The first article engaging structures IRT1 comprise two teeth 348 spaced apart from each other by three tabs T_a. The second article engaging structures IRT2 comprise three teeth 348 spaced apart from each other by two tabs T_a. In the illustrated embodiment, the teeth 348 are located about an inner region of the respective one of the first and second apertures A5, A6, in a medial or central region the reinforcing panel 320 or engaging panel 324.

The blank 310 comprises a handle structure, the handle structure comprises a first handle element H5 provided in the reinforcing panel 320 and a second handle element H6 provided in the engaging panel 324. The illustrated blank comprises a pair of first handle elements H5 and a pair of second handle elements H6. Each of the first handle elements H5 is disposed centrally between a group of four article engaging structure IRTi, IRT2. Each of the second handle elements H6 is disposed centrally between a group of four article retention structures ORT3, ORT4. Each first handle element H5 comprises a handle or finger opening, the finger opening may be defined, at least in part, by a pair of handle tabs. Each handle tab is substantially triangular in shape, albeit the truncated at one end to define a blunt end. The pair of handle tabs are separated from each other by a cutline. Each handle tab is hinged connected to the reinforcing panel 320 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The fold lines are divergently arranged with respect to each other.

Each second handle element H6 comprises a handle or finger opening, the finger opening may be defined, at least in part, by a pair of second handle tabs 370A, 370B. Each second handle tab 370A, 370B is substantially triangular in shape. The pair of second handle tabs 370A, 370B are separated from each other by a cutline. Each second handle tab 370A, 370B is hinged connected to the reinforcing panel 320 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The fold lines are divergently arranged with respect to each other.

The second handle tabs 370A, 370B are configured to engage with the reinforcing panel 320 in the region defined by the blunt or truncated end of the first handle opening, as shown in Figure 8A. End portions of the second handle tabs 370A, 370B are configured to pass through the first handle opening and engage with a lower surface of the reinforcing panel 320, in this way the reinforcing panel 320 and the engaging panel 324 are held together prior to application of the carrier 390 to a group of articles B. The handle elements H5, H6 may be employed in addition to, or in alternative to, glue or other adhesive treatment to secure the reinforcing panel 320 and the engaging panel 324 in face contacting relationship prior to application of the carrier 390 to the articles B.

Figure 8B shows a view of a pair of article engaging devices formed from an article engaging structure IRT1, IRT2 and an article retention structures ORT3, ORT4. The illustrated embodiment shows the plurality of teeth 364, 366, 374 and tabs 360, 362 surrounding an article B received in each article engaging device. The second tab 362 is shown engaging the article B below a projection or flange Ch of the article B. The flange Ch of the article B is provided by an end seam or chime of the article B in the illustrated embodiment. The first, second, and third engaging teeth 364, 366, 368 also engage the article B below the flange Ch. The first tab 360 engages the article B below the flange Ch. The fourth engaging teeth 374 form abutment tabs and do not engage the article B below the flange Ch. An inner surface of the fourth engaging teeth 374 rest against the article B, specifically against an outer wall of the chime or seam of the article B.

In alternative applications the fourth engaging teeth 374 may be arranged to engage the article B below the flange Ch, for example, but not limited to, when the carrier 390 is applied to different articles B such as articles B from an alternative manufacturer whose articles B may have small differences in size or shape to those shown in Figure 8B, it also allows greater tolerance of variation in article size or shape from a given manufacturer or between manufacturing batches or production runs. It will be appreciated that the provision of the fourth engaging teeth 374 may compensate, or allow, for packaging machine movement tolerances, when the carrier 390 is applied to the articles B. In this way, if the packaging machine presses the carrier 390 further onto the articles B compared to the carrier 390 shown in Figure 8B the fourth engaging teeth 374 may engage the article B below the flange Ch ensuring the article engaging devices securely engage the articles B when the carrier 390 is applied. Figure 9 shows a blank 410 according to a fifth embodiment for forming a carrier (not shown), the blank 410 comprises an engaging panel 424 and a reinforcing panel 420.

The blank 410 includes a first side reinforcing panel 418 hingedly connected to a first side edge of the reinforcing panel 420 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 419. A second side reinforcing panel 422A is hingedly connected to an opposing side edge of the reinforcing panel 420 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 421 A.

The blank 410 comprises first inner end panel 428A hingedly connected to a first end of the reinforcing panel 420, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 325A, and second inner end panel 428B hingedly connected to a second end of the reinforcing panel 420, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 425B.

The blank 410 comprises a first side panel 422B hingedly connected to a first side of an engaging panel 424, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 421 C, and a second side panel 426 hingedly connected to a second side of the engaging panel 424, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 423. The first side panel 422B is hingedly connected to the second side reinforcing panel 422A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 421 B.

The blank 410 comprises first outer end panel 430A hingedly connected to a first end of the engaging panel 424, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 427A, and second outer end panel 430B hingedly connected to a second end of the engaging panel 424, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 427B.

The reinforcing panel 420 includes at least one article engaging structure IRT5, IRTe. In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcing panel 420 comprises a plurality of article engaging structures IRT5, IRTe specifically six article engaging structures IRT5, IRTe arranged in 3 x 2 matrix or array. The reinforcing panel 420 comprises three columns of article engaging structures IRT5, IRTe, each column comprises two article engaging structures IRT5, IRTe. The reinforcing panel 420 comprises two rows of article engaging structures IRT5, IRTe, each row comprises three article engaging structures IRT5, IRTe. Each of the article engaging structures IRT5, IRTe may comprise an aperture A8, A9. Each of the article engaging structures IRT5, IRTe of the blank 410 shown in Figure 9 is substantially the same in construction as the respective article engaging structure IRT1, IRT2 of the blank 110 shown in Figure 3, and described above, albeit an undulating or wavy cutline E8, E9 defining the apertures A8, A9 is shaped such that each of the tabs T_a has flat or truncated crest. The tabs T_a may occupy a greater portion of the circumference or perimeter of the aperture A8, A9 than the recess T_r. Each tabs T_a may occupy, or define, a sector of a circle having a first angular width, each recess T_r may occupy, or define, a sector of a circle having a second angular width, the second angular width being less than the first angular width.

Each of the article engaging structures IRT5, IRTe comprises a first major tab 440, the first major tab 440 is struck from material which would otherwise form the reinforcing panel 420 and is integral with one of the first and second side reinforcing panels 418, 422A, the first major tab 440 is defined, at least in part by a pair of cutlines defining side edges of the first major tab 440. The pair of cutlines extend from the aperture A8, A9 to the fold line 419, 421 A between the reinforcing panel 420 and the respective one of the first and second side reinforcing panels 418, 422A from which the first major tab 440 extends. Each of the first article engaging structures IRT5 comprises a second major tab 442, the second major tab 442 is struck from material which would otherwise form the reinforcing panel 420 and is integral with one of the inner end panels 428A, 428B. The second major tab 442 is defined, at least in part by a pair of cutlines defining side edges of the second major tab 442. The pair of cutlines extend from the aperture A8 to the respective fold line 425A, 425B between the reinforcing panel 420 and said one of the inner end panels 428A, 428B from which the second major tab 442 extends.

Each of the article engaging structures IRT5, IRTe comprises a pair of third major tabs 444, a third major tab 444 is disposed on opposing sides of the first major tab 440; the first major tab 440 spaces apart the pair of third major tabs 444. The first major tab 440 and the pair of third major tabs 444 each comprise a free edge, the free edges defining a portion of the aperture A8, A9. The free edge of first major tab 440 is linear and the free edge of each of the pair of third major tabs 444 comprises a linear portion, said linear portions being obliquely or divergently arranged with respect to the linear free edge of first major tab 440. At least one of the pair of third major tabs 444 may protrude beyond the free edge of first major tab 440, in this way the free edge of said at least one third major tab 444 may be offset from the free edge of first major tab 440.

Each of the first article engaging structures IRT5 comprises a pair of fourth major tabs 446, a fourth major tab 446 is disposed on opposing sides of the second major tab 442; the second major tab 442 spaces apart the pair of fourth major tabs 446. The second major tab 442 and the pair of fourth major tabs 446 each comprise a free edge, the free edges defining a portion of the aperture A8. The free edge of second major tab 442 is linear and the free edge of each of the pair of fourth major tabs 446 comprises a linear portion, said linear portions being obliquely or divergently arranged with respect to the linear free edge of second major tab 442. At least one of the pair of fourth major tabs 446 may protrude beyond the free edge of second major tab 442, in this way the free edge of said at least one fourth major tab 446 may be offset from the free edge of second major tab 442.

The engaging panel 424 includes at least one article retention structure ORT5, ORTe. In the illustrated embodiment, the engaging panel 424 comprises a plurality of article retention structures ORT5, ORTe specifically six article retention structures ORT5, ORTe arranged in 3 x 2 matrix or array. The engaging panel 424 comprises three columns of article retention structures ORT5, ORTe, each column comprises two article retention structures ORT5, ORTe. The engaging panel 424 comprises two rows of article retention structures ORT5, ORTe, each row comprises three article retention structures ORT5, ORTe. Each of the article retention structures ORT5, ORTe may comprise an aperture A10, A11.

Each of the article retention structure ORT5, ORTe comprises a first tab/tooth 460, the first tab 460 is struck from material which would otherwise form the engaging panel 424 and is integral with one of the first and second side panels 422B, 426. The first tab 460 is defined, at least in part by a cutline defining one of the side edges of the first tab 460 and by a cutaway C1 . The cutline and the cutaway C1 each extends from the aperture A10, A11 to the fold line 421C, 423 between the engaging panel 424 and the respective one of the first and second side panels 422B, 426 from which the first tab 460 extends.

Each of the first article retention structures ORT 5 comprises a second or wide tab/tooth 462, the second or wide tab 462 is struck from material which would otherwise form the engaging panel 424 and is integral with one of the end panels 430A, 430B. The second tab 462 is defined, at least in part by a cutline defining one of the side edges of the second tab 462 and by a cutaway defining the other side edge of the second tab 462. Each of the cutline and the cutaway extends from the aperture A10 to the respective fold line 427A, 427B between the engaging panel 424 and said one of the end panels 430A, 430B from which the second tab 462 extends.

Each of the first article retention structures ORT5 further comprises a plurality of third, fourth and fifth engaging tabs/teeth 464, 466, 468 struck from the engaging panel 424 and hingedly connected thereto by a hinged connection. The hinged connections each may be defined, at least in part by a circumferential cutline 465. The third or standard engaging tab 464 is defined in part by a pair of cutaways C2 in the form of recesses. The recesses C2 define the side edges of the third engaging tab 464 and space one third engaging tab 464 from another engaging tab 464, 466 or 468. A third engaging tab 464 and the pair of cutaways C2 are disposed between first tab 460 and the second tab 462, each cutaway C2 defining a side edge of one of the first and second tabs 460, 462. Another side edge of the first tab 460 is defined by a radial cutline separating the first tab 460 from the fourth engaging tab 466. Another side edge of the second tab 462 is defined by a radial cutline separating the second tab 462 from the fifth engaging tab 468.

At least one of the fourth or tall engaging tab 466 and fifth or another tall engaging tab 468 may protrude beyond the free edge of the adjacent one of the first and second tabs 460, 462. In this way, the free edge of said at least one of the fourth and fifth engaging tabs 466, 468 may be offset from the free edge of the adjacent first or second tab 460, 462.

Each of the second article retention structures ORTe comprises a plurality of engaging tabs/teeth 460, 464, 466 struck from the engaging panel 424 and hingedly connected thereto by hinged connections. The hinged connections each may be defined, at least in part by a circumferential cutline 465. The second article retention structures ORTe comprise third engaging tabs 464 and fourth engaging tabs 466. Each of the third engaging tabs 464 is defined in part by a pair of cutaways C2 in the form of recesses. The recesses C2 define the side edges of that third engaging tab 464 and space that third engaging tab 464 from other engaging tabs 464, 466. The second article retention structures ORTe comprise a pair of the fourth engaging tabs 466. The fourth engaging tabs 466 are disposed on the opposing sides of the first tab 460. The first tab 460 spaces apart the pair of the fourth engaging tabs 466. A side edge of the first tab 460 is defined by a cutline separating the first tab 460 from one of the fourth engaging tabs 466. The other side edge of the first tab 460 is defined by a cutline separating the first tab 460 from the other one of the fourth engaging tabs 466.

At least one of the pair of fourth engaging tabs 466 may protrude beyond the free edge of first tab 462. In this way, the free edge of the at least one fourth engaging tab 466 may be offset from the free edge of first tab 460.

The blank 410 comprises a handle structure which comprises a first handle element H5 provided in the reinforcing panel 420 and a second handle element H6 provided in the engaging panel 424. Each of the handle elements H5, H6 of the blank 410 shown in Figure 9 is substantially the same in construction as the handle elements H5, H6 of the blank 310 shown in Figure 8 and described above and will not be described in further detail.

Figure 10 shows a blank 510 according to a sixth embodiment for forming a carrier 590, see Figure 13, the blank 510 comprises an engaging panel 524 and a reinforcing panel 520. The engaging panel 524 forms an upper ply of a main carrier wall or engaging board 524/520 and the reinforcing panel 520 forms a lower ply of the main carrier wall or engaging board 524/520.

The blank 510 includes a first side reinforcing panel 518 hingedly connected to a first side edge of the reinforcing panel 520 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 519. A second side reinforcing panel 522A is hingedly connected to an opposing side edge of the reinforcing panel 520 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 521 A.

The blank 510 comprises a first inner end panel 528A hingedly connected to a first end of the reinforcing panel 520, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 525A, and a second inner end panel 528B hingedly connected to a second end of the reinforcing panel 520, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 525B.

The blank 510 comprises a first side panel 522B hingedly connected to a first side of an engaging panel 524 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 521 C, and a second side panel 526 hingedly connected to a second side of the engaging panel 524, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 523. The first side panel 522B is hingedly connected to the second side reinforcing panel 522A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 521 B.

The blank 510 comprises a first outer end panel 530A hingedly connected to a first end of the engaging panel 524, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 527A, and a second outer end panel 530B hingedly connected to a second end of the engaging panel 524, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 527B.

The reinforcing panel 520 includes at least one article engaging structure IRT5. In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcing panel 520 comprises a plurality of article engaging structures IRT5 specifically four article engaging structures IRT5 arranged in 2 x 2 matrix or array. The reinforcing panel 520 comprises two columns of article engaging structures IRT5, each column comprises two article engaging structures IRT5. The reinforcing panel 520 comprises two rows of article engaging structures IRT5, each row comprises two article engaging structures IRT5. Each of the article engaging structures IRT5 may comprise an aperture A8. Each of the article engaging structures IRT5 of the blank 510 shown in Figure 10 is substantially the same in construction as the first article engaging structures IRT5 of the blank 410 shown in Figure 9, and described above.

Each of the article engaging structures IRT5 comprises a first major tab 540, the first major tab 540 is struck from material which would otherwise form the reinforcing panel 520 and is integral with one of the first and second side reinforcing panels 518, 522A, the first major tab 540 is defined, at least in part by a pair of cutlines defining side edges of the first major tab 540. The pair of cutlines extend from the aperture A8 to the fold line 519, 521A between the reinforcing panel 520 and the respective one of the first and second side reinforcing panels 518, 522A from which the first major tab 540 extends.

Each of the article engaging structures IRT5 comprises a second major tab 542, the second major tab 542 is struck from material which would otherwise form the reinforcing panel 520 and is integral with one of the inner end panels 528A, 528B. The second major tab 542 is defined, at least in part by a pair of cutlines defining side edges of the second major tab 542. The pair of cutlines extend from the aperture A8 to the respective fold line 525A, 525B between the reinforcing panel 520 and said one of the inner end panels 528A, 528B from which the second major tab 542 extends. Each of the article engaging structures IRT5 comprises a pair of third major tabs 544, a third major tab 544 is disposed on opposing sides of the first major tab 540; the first major tab 540 spaces apart the pair of third major tabs 544. The first major tab 540 and the pair of third major tabs 544 each comprise a free edge, the free edges defining a portion of the aperture A8. The free edge of first major tab 540 is linear and the free edge of each of the pair of third major tabs 544 comprises a linear portion, said linear portions being obliquely or divergently arranged with respect to the linear free edge of first major tab 540. At least one of the pair of third major tabs 544 may protrude beyond the free edge of first major tab 540, in this way the free edge of said at least one third major tab 444 may be offset from the free edge of first major tab 540.

Each of the article engaging structures IRT5 comprises a pair of fourth major tabs 546, a fourth major tab 546 is disposed on opposing sides of the second major tab 542; the second major tab 542 spaces apart the pair of fourth major tabs 546. The second major tab 542 and the pair of fourth major tabs 546 each comprise a free edge, the free edges defining a portion of the aperture A8. The free edge of second major tab 542 is linear and the free edge of each of the pair of fourth major tabs 546 comprises a linear portion, said linear portions being obliquely or divergently arranged with respect to the linear free edge of second major tab 542. At least one of the pair of fourth major tabs 546 may protrude beyond the free edge of second major tab 542, in this way the free edge of said at least one fourth major tab 546 may be offset from the free edge of second major tab 542.

The engaging panel 524 includes at least one article retention structure ORT5. In the illustrated embodiment, the engaging panel 524 comprises a plurality of article retention structures ORT5 specifically four article retention structures ORT5 arranged in 2 x 2 matrix or array. The engaging panel 524 comprises two columns of article retention structures ORT5, each column comprises two article retention structures ORT5. The engaging panel 524 comprises two rows of article retention structures ORT5, each row comprises two article retention structures ORT5. Each of the article retention structures ORT5 may comprise an aperture A10.

Each of the article retention structure ORT5 comprises a first tab or tooth 560, the first tab 560 is struck from material which would otherwise form the engaging panel 524 and is integral with one of the first and second side panels 522B, 526. The first tab 560 is defined, at least in part by a cutline defining one of the side edges of the first tab 560 and by a cutaway C1 . The cutline and the cutaway C1 each extends from the aperture A10 to the fold line 521 C, 523 between the engaging panel 524 and the respective one of the first and second side panels 522B, 526 from which the first tab 560 extends.

Each of the article retention structures ORT5 comprises a second or wide tab or tooth 562, the second or wide tab 562 is struck from material which would otherwise form the engaging panel 524 and is integral with one of the end panels 530A, 530B. The second tab 562 is defined, at least in part by a cutline defining one of the side edges of the second tab 562 and by a cutaway defining the other side edge of the second tab 562. Each of the cutline and the cutaway extends from the aperture A10 to the respective fold line 527A, 527B between the engaging panel 524 and said one of the end panels 530A, 530B from which the second tab 562 extends.

Each of the first article retention structures ORT5 further comprises a plurality of third, fourth and fifth engaging tabs or teeth 564, 566, 568 struck from the engaging panel 524 and hingedly connected thereto by a hinged connection. The hinged connections each may be defined, at least in part by a circumferential cutline 565. The third or standard engaging tab 564 is defined in part by a pair of cutaways C2 in the form of recesses. The recesses C2 define the side edges of the third engaging tab 564 and space one third engaging tab 564 from another engaging tab 564, 566 or 568. A third engaging tab 564 and the pair of cutaways C2 are disposed between first tab 560 and the second tab 562, each cutaway C2 defining a side edge of one of the first and second tabs 460, 462. Another side edge of the first tab 460 is defined by a radial cutline separating the first tab 560 from a fourth engaging tab 566. Another side edge of the second tab 562 is defined by a radial cutline separating the second tab 562 from a fifth engaging tab 468.

At least one of the fourth or tall engaging tab 566 and the fifth or another tall engaging tab 568 may protrude beyond the free edge of the adjacent one of the first and second tabs 560, 562. In this way, the free edge of said at least one of the fourth and fifth engaging tabs 566, 568 may be offset from the free edge of the adjacent first or second tab 560, 562.

The blank 510 comprises a handle structure which comprises a first handle element H7 provided in the reinforcing panel 520 and a second handle element H8 provided in the engaging panel 524. The first handle element H7 comprises a first handle opening defined in the reinforcing panel 520. The first handle opening is disposed centrally between the four article engaging structures IRT5. The first handle opening is defined by at least one handle flap 570A, 570B, 572A, 572B. The illustrated embodiment comprises four handle flaps 570A, 570B, 572A, 572B, each is hingedly connected to the reinforcing panel 520 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. A first pair of handle flaps 570A, 570B is separated from a second pair of handle flaps 572A, 572B buy a cut line or weakened line of severance. The cut line or weakened line of severance may be non-linear in shape.

Each of the first pair of handle flaps 570A, 570B is separated from the other one of the first pair of handle flaps 570A, 570B by a first cutline, the first cutline may be linear. Each of the second pair of handle flaps 572A, 572B is separated from the other one of the second pair of handle flaps 572A, 572B by a second cutline, the second cutline may be linear. The second cutline may be collinear with the first cutline.

The second handle element H8 comprises a second handle opening defined in the engaging panel 524. The second handle opening is disposed centrally between the four article retention structure ORT5. The second handle opening is disposed in vertical registry with the first handle opening. The second handle opening is defined by at least one handle flap 574A, 574B, 576A, 576B. The illustrated embodiment comprises four handle flaps 574A, 574B, 576A, 576B; each hingedly connected to the engaging panel 524 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. A first pair of handle flaps 574A, 574B is separated from a second pair of handle flaps 576A, 576B buy a cut line or weakened line of severance. The cut line or weakened line of severance may be non-linear in shape.

Each of the first pair of handle flaps 574A, 574B is separated from the other one of the first pair of handle flaps 574A, 574B by a first cutline, the first cutline may be linear. Each of the second pair of handle flaps 576A, 576B is separated from the other one of the second pair of handle flaps 576A, 576B by a second cutline, the second cutline may be linear. The second cutline may be collinear with the first cutline.

The handle structure comprises a center Cf, shown in Figure 12, each of the article openings A8/A10 comprises a center C_a. The center Cf of the handle structure and the center C_a of the article openings A8/A10 define a notional line NL1, NL2. The notional line NL1, NL2 bisects a recess C2 between a pair of adjacently disposed teeth 564 in a first ply provided by the engaging panel 524. The notional line NLi , NL2 bisects a tab T_a between a pair of adjacently disposed recesses T_r in a second ply provided by the reinforcing panel 520. The tab T_a is in vertical alignment with the recess C2 in the engaging panel 524. The notional line NL1, NL2 also intersects hinged connections F3 of a pair of handle flaps 570A/576A, 570B/576B, 572A/574A, 572B/574B disposed adjacent to the recess C2. The pair of handle flaps 570A/576A, 570B/576B, 572A/574A, 572B/574B are disposed in face contacting relationship with each other.

Referring to Figure 14, there is shown a blank 610 comprising a plurality of panels 312, 314, 316, 318, 320, 322, 324, 326, including a main panel 316 for forming a lower wall or engaging panel of a carrier 690 (see Figure 15).

A first side panel 314 is hingedly connected to a first side of the main panel 316 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 315. A first top or cover panel 312 is hingedly connected to the first side panel 314 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 313.

A second side panel 318 is hingedly connected to a second side of the main panel 316 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 317. A second top or cover panel 320 is hingedly connected to the second side panel 318 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 319.

The blank 610 comprises a plurality of beam panels 322, 324, 316 for forming a brace or keel structure for increasing the rigidity of the carrier 690. The brace or keel structure may take the form of a beam extending longitudinally of the carrier 690.

The plurality of beam panels 322, 324, 326 are hingedly connected to the second top panel 320. A first beam panel 322 is hingedly connected to the second top panel 320 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 321 . A second beam panel 324, also referred to herein as floor panel 324, is hingedly connected to the first beam panel 322 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 323. A third beam panel 326 is hingedly connected to the second beam panel 324 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 325.

The first top panel 312, second top panel 320, first and second side panels 314, 316 and main panel 316 form a tubular structure. Each end of the tubular structure is closed by an end closure structure. In the blank 610 the optional top end flaps of the previous embodiments have been omitted.

The main panel 316 comprises a plurality of article retention structures RT, specifically, but not limited to, four article retention structures RT arranged in a 2 x 2 matrix or array. The article retention structures RT comprise an article receiving opening defined by a plurality of article engaging teeth or tabs 360, 362, 364, 366. The plurality of article engaging teeth or tabs 360, 362, 364, 366 comprise a first pair of opposed teeth 360, 366 and a second pair of opposed teeth 362, 364; the second pair of teeth 362, 364 is disposed between the first pair of opposed teeth 360, 366. The second pair of teeth 362, 364 are separated from each other by a non-linear cutline, the non-linear cutline defines a recess in a first tooth 362 and a tongue in a second tooth 364. Each of the second pair of teeth 362, 364 is hingedly connected to the main panel 316 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 363, 365. One of the first pair of opposed teeth 360, 366 disposed adjacent, or proximate to, an end panel 328, 330 is hingedly connected to the main panel 316 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 361. The fold line 361 may be collinear or coincident with the fold line 327, 329 hinging the end panel 328, 330 to the main panel 316. The other one of the first pair of opposed teeth 360, 366 is hinged to the main panel 316 by the hinged connection which is not predefined by a crease, cut or fold line.

Each article retention structures RT comprises an access or tear initiation device AD, the access device AD takes the form a tear initiation tab 370 formed in part in one of the side panels 314, 318 and in part in the main panel 316. Each tear initiation tab 370 is defined by a tear line or severance line 373, 375. The tear initiation tab 370 is configured to detach or remove, at least partially, or facilitate displacement of at least one of the engaging teeth 364, 366. Upon deployment of the tear initiation device AD, the article retention structure RT is compromised reducing the grip or hold upon the article B therein and creating a space or gap to facilitate manipulation of the article B out of the carrier 690.

The blank 610 may comprise a panel securing device which also provides a handle structure. The securing device comprises a first portion H1 provided in the first top panel 312, a second portion H2 provided in the second beam panel 324, and a third portion H3 provided in the main panel 316,

The first portion H1 comprises a handle opening defined at least in part by a handle aperture A5. The handle opening is disposed on a longitudinal axis bisecting the top or cover panel 312. The handle opening is vertically aligned with second portion H2 of the panel securing device provided in the second beam panel 324 and with the third portion H3 provided in the main panel 316. The handle opening may be defined in part by at least one foldable tab 352. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle opening is defined in part by a pair of foldable tabs 352, the pair of foldable tabs 352 being spaced apart, longitudinally, from each other by the handle aperture A5. Each of the pair of foldable tabs 352 is struck from, or defined in, the cover panel 312 and is hingedly connected thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 351 . A first one of the pair of foldable tabs 352 is hinged in opposition to the second one of the pair of foldable tabs 352; the hinged connections, fold lines 351 , define opposed ends of the handle opening.

The foldable tabs 352 form locking tabs 352 for securing the cover panel 312 to the main panel 316 and/or the second beam panel 324. The locking tabs 352 comprise a pair of cutaways A6 which in blank form are defined by apertures. The cutaways A6 define recesses in opposed side edge of the locking tabs 352 when the locking tabs 352 are folded out of the plane of the top panel 312. The cutaways A6 define a waist in the locking tabs 352, the waist spaces a main body portion of the locking tabs 352 from a head portion. The cutaways A6 have the effect of creating shoulders or detents for resisting disengagement of the locking tabs 352 from a receiver. The first portion H1 comprises a pair of handle flaps 356A, 356B, the handle flaps 356A, 356B form part of the handle opening. A first handle flap 356A is disposed on a first side of the handle aperture A5, and a second handle flap 356B is disposed on a second opposing side of the handle aperture A5. The first handle flap 356A is struck from the cover panel 312 and is hingedly connected thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 355A. The first handle flap 356A is defined in part by a first cutline, the first cutline comprises a longitudinal element opposing the hinged connection defined by the fold line 355A. The longitudinal element may be non-linear and may be undulating or wavelike in shape. A section of the longitudinal element defines at least a portion of a first side edge of a first locking tab 352. The first handle flap 356A and first locking tab 352 share a common cutline. A section of the longitudinal element defines at least a portion of a first side edge of a second locking tab 352. The first handle flap 356A and second locking tab 352 share a common cutline. The first cutline comprises a pair of transverse elements extending between the longitudinal element and the fold line 355A, the pair of transverse elements define a longitudinal length dimension therebetween. The longitudinal length dimension may be less than the distance between the fold lines 351 of the pair of foldable tabs 352.

The second handle flap 356B is struck from the cover panel 312 and is hingedly connected thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 355B. The second handle flap 356B is defined in part by a second cutline, the second cutline comprises a longitudinal element opposing the hinged connection defined by the fold line 355B. The longitudinal element may be non-linear and may be undulating or wavelike in shape. A section of the longitudinal element defines at least a portion of a second, opposing, side edge of the first locking tab 352. The second handle flap 356B and first locking tab 352 share a common cutline. A section of the longitudinal element defines at least a portion of a second, opposing, side edge of the second locking tab 352. The second handle flap 356B and second locking tab 352 share a common cutline. The second cutline comprises a pair of transverse elements extending between the longitudinal element and the fold line 355B, the pair of transverse elements define a longitudinal length dimension therebetween. The longitudinal length dimension may be less than the distance between the fold lines 351 of the pair of foldable tabs 352.

The second portion H2 of the panel securing device provided in the second beam panel 324, comprises a receiver for receiving the locking tabs 352, the receiver takes the form of a pair of receiver openings spaced apart from each other. Each receiver opening may be defined by a receiver tab 354 struck from, or defined in, the second beam panel 324. The receiver tabs 354 are hingedly connected to the second beam panel 324 in opposition to each other. Each receiver tab 354 may be configured to engage with a respective one of the locking tabs 352, and may be hinged in opposition to said respective locking tab 352. Each receiver tab 354 is defined by a cutline or severance line 353, the cut line 353 comprises a medial portion and a pair of marginal portions extending therefrom. The marginal portions are divergently arranged with respect to each other and may be curved or arcuate in shape. The marginal portions may terminate in a "J” or “C” shaped cut. The medial portion comprises a first linear portion extending transversely of the second beam panel 324 and a pair of second linear portions extending longitudinally of the second beam panel 324. The second linear portions extend between an end of the first linear portion and one of the marginal portions, so that a continuous cutline or severance line is formed.

The third portion H3 of the panel securing device provided in the main panel 316, comprises a second receiver for receiving the locking tabs 352, the second receiver takes the form of a pair of second receiver openings spaced apart from each other. The pair of openings is centrally disposed between the group of four article retention structures RT. Each second receiver opening may be defined by a second receiver tab 350 struck from, or defined in, the main panel 316. The second receiver tabs 350 are hingedly connected to the main panel 316 in opposition to each other. Each second receiver tab 350 may be configured to engage with a respective one of the locking tabs 352, and may be hinged in opposition to said respective locking tab 352. Each second receiver tab 350 is defined by a second cutline or severance line 349, the second cutline 349 comprises a medial portion and a pair of marginal portions extending therefrom. The marginal portions are divergently arranged with respect to each other and may be curved or arcuate in shape. The marginal portions may terminate in a "J” or “C” shaped cut. The medial portion comprises a first linear portion extending transversely of the main panel 316 and a pair of waist defining portions each extending between an end of the first linear portion and one of the marginal portions, so that a continuous cutline or severance line is formed. The pair of waist defining portions may be arranged to converge towards each other along at least sections thereof.

A user may insert one or more fingers through the handle opening in top panel 312 and through the pairs of openings in the second beam panel 324 and in the main panel 316 to carry the carrier 690. A user may insert at least two fingers through the handle opening in top panel 312, at least one finger may by inserted in a first pair of aligned receiver openings in the second beam panel 324 and main panel 316 and at least one finger may by inserted in a second pair of aligned receiver openings in the second beam panel 324 and main panel 316. The elongate shape of the handle opening in the top panel 312, facilitates access and viewing of the openings in the second beam panel 324 and main panel 316 below such that user can readily engage the second beam panel 324 and main panel 316. The handle flaps 356A, 356B may protect or cushion a user's hand when inserted into the interior of the carrier 690. The first and third beam panels 322, 326 of the keel structure may also protect the user's hand or inhibit engaging the articles B. In this way the user can safely engage the carrier 690 and transport the article B and the articles B are securely held therein. The handle flaps 356A, 356B allow the handle opening in the top panel 312 to be increased in size to enable a user to inset their hand or portion thereof into the interior of the carrier 690.

Referring to Figure 16, there is shown a blank 710 comprising a plurality of panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, including a main panel 112 for forming a lower wall or engaging panel of a carrier 790 (see Figure 18). The blank 710 is substantially similar in construction to the blank 610 of Figure 14 albeit the end closure structures are configured to interlock with an inner top panel flap 138A, 138B.

A first end closure structure comprises a first end panel 122A hingedly connected to a first end of the main panel 112 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The first end panel 122A comprises a locking tab T1 extending from a free end edge, the free end edge opposes a hinged edge defined by the hinged connection to the main panel 112. The locking tab T1 may be defined by a pair of cutaways in the form of recesses R1 struck from or defined in the free end edge of the first end panel 122A. The locking tab T 1 forms part of a complementary locking structure.

A first anchor flap 128A is hingedly connected to a first end of the first top panel 118 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The first anchor flap 128A is hingedly connected to a second anchor flap 126A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The second anchor flap 126A is hingedly connected to a first end of the first side panel 114 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line.

A first connecting panel 124A is hingedly connected to the second anchor flap 126A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The first connecting panel 124A is hingedly connected to the first end panel 122A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line.

The first side panel 114 is separated from the first connecting panel 124A by an aperture. The aperture separates each of the first connecting panel 124A and the second anchor flap 126A from the main panel 112. A first inner top panel flap 138A is hingedly connected to a first end of the second top panel 120 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 137A. The first inner top panel flap 138A is hingedly connected to a fourth anchor flap 132A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The fourth anchor flap 132A is hingedly connected to a first end of the second side panel 116 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The first inner top panel flap 138A extends substantially across the first end of the second top panel 120. The first inner top panel flap 138A comprises a pair of cutaways, in the form of recesses R3. Each of the recesses R3 is configured to be disposed in registry with a respective one of the pair of apertures A2 in the second top panel 120 disposed proximate or adjacent to the first end of the second top panel 120. The first inner top panel flap 138A comprises a tab receiving aperture A6 forming part of the complementary locking structure.

A second connecting panel 130A is hingedly connected to the fourth anchor flap 132A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The second connecting panel 130A is hingedly connected to the first end panel 122A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line.

The second side panel 116 is separated from the second connecting panel 130A by an aperture. The aperture separates each of the second connecting panel 130A and the fourth anchor flap 132A from the main panel 112.

A second end closure structure comprises a second end panel 122B hingedly connected to a first end of the main panel 112 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The second end panel 122B comprises a locking tab T2 extending from a free end edge, the free end edge opposes a hinged edge defined by the hinged connection to the main panel 112. The locking tab T2 may be defined by a pair of cutaways in the form of recesses R2 struck from or defined in the free end edge of the second end panel 122B. The locking tab T2 forms part of a complementary locking structure.

A fifth anchor flap 128B is hingedly connected to a first end of the first top panel 118 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The fifth anchor flap 128B is hingedly connected to a sixth anchor flap 126B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The sixth anchor flap 126B is hingedly connected to a second end of the first side panel 114 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line.

A third connecting panel 124B is hingedly connected to the sixth anchor flap 126B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The third connecting panel 124B is hingedly connected to the second end panel 122B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line.

The first side panel 114 is separated from the third connecting panel 124B by an aperture. The aperture separates each of the third connecting panel 124B and the sixth anchor flap 126B from the main panel 112.

A second inner top panel flap 138B is hingedly connected to a first end of the second top panel 120 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 137B. The second inner top panel flap 138B is hingedly connected to an eighth anchor flap 132B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The eighth anchor flap 132B is hingedly connected to a second end of the second side panel 116 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The second inner top panel flap 138B extends substantially across the second end of the second top panel 120. The second inner top panel flap 138B comprises a pair of cutaways, in the form of recesses R4. Each of the recesses R4 is configured to be disposed in registry with a respective one of the pair of apertures A2 in the second top panel 120 disposed proximate or adjacent to the first end of the second top panel 120. The second inner top panel flap 138B comprises a tab receiving aperture A6 forming part of the complementary locking structure.

A fourth connecting panel 130B is hingedly connected to the eighth anchor flap 132B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The fourth connecting panel 130B is hingedly connected to the first end panel 122B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line.

The second side panel 116 is separated from the fourth connecting panel 130B by an aperture. The aperture separates each of the fourth connecting panel 130B and the eighth anchor flap 132B from the main panel 112.

In the operative position, the first end panel 122B is folded up with respect to the main panel 112 wherein the tab T2 is received in the tab receiving aperture A6 in the second inner top panel flap 138B. The second inner top panel flap 138B is folded into face-to-face relationship with the second top panel 120. The second inner top panel flap 138B and the second top panel 120 are disposed in at least partial overlapping or overlying relationship with the first top panel 118. A portion of the second inner top panel flap 138B is disposed between the second top panel 120 and the first top panel 118.

The main panel 112 of the blank 710 includes at least one article retention structure RT. The main panel 112 comprises a plurality of article retention structures RT, specifically six article retention structures RT arranged in 2 x 3 matrix or array. Each of the article retention structures RT comprises an article receiving opening defined, at least in part, by engaging tabs or teeth 140A, 140B.

The article retention structures RT comprise a first engaging tab 140A struck from the main panel 112 and hingedly connected thereto by a fold line 141 A. A second engaging tab 140A is struck from the main panel 112 and is hingedly connected thereto by a fold line 141 B. The second engaging tab 140B is hinged in opposition to the first engaging tab 140A. The second engaging tab 140B is separated from the first engaging tab 140A by a cutline.

The first top panel 118 comprises at least one article receiving opening A5, the illustrated embodiment comprises three article receiving openings A5 each receiving a respective one of the articles B disposed adjacent to the first side panel 114. The article receiving openings A5 extend into the first beam panel 118B and may be generally oval or egg shaped. Each article receiving opening A5 may comprise at least one engaging tooth 146 struck from the first beam panel 118B and extending from the first beam panel 118B into the receiving opening A5. The illustrated embodiment comprises a pair of engaging teeth 146 defined in part and separated from each other by a cutline 147 extending generally radially outward from the article receiving opening A5. Each of the pair of engaging teeth 146 is hingedly connected to the first beam panel 118B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 149.

The second beam panel 118C comprises at least one first locking element L1 , the illustrated embodiment comprises two first locking elements L1. The first locking elements L1 take the form of a locking tab receiving opening and may be defined by a first locking tab 180 struck from, or defined within, the second beam panel 118C and hingedly connected thereto. The first locking tab 180 comprises a head or distal portion, the head or distal portion is wider than a proximal or intermediate portion of the first locking tab 180. In this way, the locking tab receiving opening comprises a wider portion at one end thereof and defines a waist or restriction. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 16, the locking tab receiving opening and/or the first locking tab 180 are generally greater in width than the second beam panel 118C. The locking tab receiving opening and/or the first locking tab 180, or at least portions thereof, interrupt the hinged connections between the second beam panel 118C and each of the first and third beam panels 118B, 118D. The locking tab receiving opening and/or the first locking tab 180 comprises a pair of opposed arcuate cutline sections extending into a respective one of the third beam panel 118D and first beam panel 118B. The third locking elements RC take the form of an opening in the main panel 112, the opening may be defined by a respective receiving tab 170 struck from the main panel 112 and hingedly connected thereto. The opening in the main panel 112 and/or receiving tab 170 is shaped similarly to the locking tab receiving opening and/or the first locking tab 180. The receiving tabs 170 are hingedly connected to the main panel 112 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 171.

The hinged connection, fold line 117, between the first side panel 114 and the first top panel 118 may be interrupted by a cut line CT, cut line CT may be substantially “U” shaped so as to define a tab Ts struck from the first top panel 118. The tab Ts is integral with the first side panel 114 and extends therefrom. The blank 710 may comprise a pair of cut lines CT each defining a tab Ts. A first tab Ts may be disposed proximate a first end of the fold line 117 a second tab Ts may be disposed proximate a second, opposing, end of the fold line 117. The tabs Ts may form an abutment against which an edge of the second top panel 120 engages to align the second top panel 120 and/or prevent or inhibit relative movement of the second top panel 120 with respect to the first top panel 118.

In some embodiments, a tab may hingedly connected to the second top panel 120, the tab may be inserted into a slot or opening in the first top panel 118 defined in part by the cutline CT and created when the first top panel 118 is folded with respect to the first side panel 114.

The blank 710 may comprise a pair of second locking tabs 150, the pair of second locking tabs 150 are spaced apart, longitudinally, by a handle aperture A7. Each of the pair of second locking tabs 150 is struck from, or defined in, the second top panel 120 and is hingedly connected thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 151. A first one of the pair of foldable tabs 150 is hinged in opposition to the second one of the pair of foldable tabs 150; the hinged connections, fold lines 151 , defining opposed ends of a handle opening.

The second locking tabs 150 are configured for securing the second top panel 120 to the engaging panel 112 and/or the second beam panel 118C. The second locking tabs 150 comprise a pair of cuts 153. The pair of cuts 153 extend inwardly of the tabs 150 from opposed side edges thereof. Each of the pair of cuts may be non-linear or curvilinear in shape. The cuts 153 define barbs or shoulders of the locking tab 150 for engaging with portions the engaging panel 112 and/or the second beam panel 118C surrounding openings therein. A fold line 155 may extend from an inner end of each cut 153 towards the side edge of the tab 150 from which that cut 153 extends. In this way a pair of opposed wing portions 154is defined in each second locking tab 150. The fold lines 155 may be arranged to facilitate folding of the wing portions 154 into face-to-face relationship with one of the inclined beam panels 118B, 118D, first and third beam panels 118B, 118D best shown in Figure 18. The second locking tabs 150 and handle aperture A7 create a handle opening exposing to view openings in the engaging panel 112 and/or making those openings more accessible for a user to engage with. In this way the user can grasp the engaging panel 112 to carry the carrier 790.

Optionally, the first top panel 118 may be secured to the second top panel 120 by glue G or other adhesive treatment, as illustrated in Figure 17.

Referring to Figure 19, there is shown a blank 810 comprising a plurality of panels 212, 214, 216, 218, 220, including a main panel 212 for forming a lower wall or engaging panel of a carrier (not shown). The blank 810 is substantially similar in construction to the blank 710 of Figure 16 albeit the blank 810 is configured to accommodate eight articles arranged in a 2 x 4 matrix or array. The second top panel 220 comprises eight second article receiving openings, in the form of apertures A2, arranged in 2 x 4 matrix or array; each second article receiving opening is configured to be disposed in vertical registry with one of eight article retention structures RT3 provided in the main panel 212.

The first top panel 218 comprises four article receiving openings A5 each receiving a respective one of the articles disposed adjacent to the first side panel 214. The article receiving openings A5 extend into the first beam panel 218B and may be generally oval or egg shaped.

Each of the article retention structures RT3 of the embodiment of Figure 19 take the form of a pair of teeth or tabs 240A, 240B arranged in opposition to each other and separated from each other by an aperture A8, the tabs 240A, 240B and aperture A8 together forming an article receiving opening.

The blank 810 comprises a panel securing device, the panel securing device comprises at least one first locking element L1 in the second beam panel 218C, at least one second locking element in the second top panel 220, and at least one third locking element RC in the main panel 212.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first top panel 218 comprises a pair of first locking elements L1. The second top panel 220 comprises a pair of second locking elements and the main panel 212 comprises a pair of third locking element RC. A first one of the pair of the third locking elements RC is disposed centrally between a first group of four article retention structures RT3, a second one of the pair of the third locking elements RC is disposed centrally between a second group of four article retention structures RT3. The second group of four article retention structures RT3 is disposed adjacent to the first group of four article retention structures RT3.

The second top panel 220 comprises a pair of second locking elements each takes the form of a second locking tab 250, the pair of second locking tabs 250 are spaced apart, longitudinally, by a handle aperture A9. Each of the pair of second locking tabs 150 is struck from, or defined in, the second top panel 220 and is hingedly connected thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 251. A first one of the pair of foldable tabs 250 is hinged in opposition to the second one of the pair of foldable tabs 250; the hinged connections, fold lines 251 , defining opposed ends of a handle opening.

The second locking tabs 250 are configured for securing the second top panel 220 to the engaging panel 212 and/or the second beam panel 218C.

The handle aperture A9 extends between a free end of a first one of the second locking tabs 150 and a free end of a second one of the second locking tabs 150. The handle aperture A9 is generally longitudinal of the second top panel 220 and comprises opposed side edges each having a wavy or undulating shape. In this way, the handle aperture A9 is spaced apart from pairs of article receiving apertures A2 which are disposed on the opposite sides of the handle aperture A9.

The first one of the pair of foldable tabs 250 is disposed centrally between a first group of four article receiving apertures A2. The second one of the pair of foldable tabs 250 is disposed centrally between a second group of four article receiving apertures A2. The second group of four article receiving apertures A2 is disposed adjacent to the first group of four article receiving apertures A2.

The blank 810 comprises a handle opening in the engaging panel 212, the handle opening may be defined by a one or more tabs 272, 274. The illustrated embodiment comprises a pair of handle tabs 272, 274 struck from the engaging panel 212 and hinged thereto by respective fold lines 273, 275. The handle opening together with one of the openings in the engaging panel 212 defined by the third locking elements RC may be engaged by a user to carry the carton. The second beam panel 218C comprises a second handle opening configured to be disposed in vertical registry with the handle opening in the engaging panel 212. The second handle opening may be defined by one or more tabs 282, 284. The illustrated embodiment comprises a pair of handle tabs 282, 284 struck from at least the second beam panel 218C and hinged thereto. In the illustrated embodiment the pair of handle tabs 282, 284 are struck in part from each of the first and third beam panels 218B, 218D. The first and second handle openings are disposed in vertical registry with the handle aperture A9 and are not configured to engage a locking tab provided by the second top panel 220.

The first handle opening is disposed between the openings in the engaging panel 212 defined by the third locking elements RC and is located centrally between a central or medial group of four article retention structures RT3.

The second handle opening is disposed between the pair of first locking elements L1 .

The present disclosure provides a carrier 90; 190; 290; 390; 590, 690, 790 of the top engaging type having a retention or engaging structure ORTi, ORT2, ORT3, ORT4, ORT5, ORTe, IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4, IRT5, IRTe, for engaging articles B.

The carrier 90; 190; 290; 390;590 may comprise a two-ply engaging panel 20/24; 120/124; 220/224; 320/324; 420/424; 520/524. The two-ply engaging panel 20/24; 120/124; 220/224; 320/324; 420/424; 520/524 may comprise an engaging panel 24; 124; 224; 324; 424; 524 and a reinforcing panel 20; 120; 220; 320; 420; 520. Each of the plies of the two-ply engaging panel 20/24; 120/124; 220/224; 320/324; 420/424; 520/524 comprises retention or engaging structure ORT1, ORT2, ORT3, ORT4, ORT5, ORTe, IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4, IRT5, IRTe A retention or engaging structure ORT1, ORT2, ORT3, ORT4, ORT5, ORTe, ORT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4, IRT5, IRTe in a first ply is aligned with a retention or engaging structure ORT1, ORT2, ORT3, ORT4, ORT5, ORTe, IRT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4, IRT5, IRTe in a second ply.

The reinforcing panel 20; 120; 220; 320; 420 may be a partial reinforcing panel 20 extending in partial overlapping relationship with the engaging panel 24. The partial reinforcing panel 20 forms a partial two-ply engaging panel 20/24 with the engaging panel 24. The partial two-ply engaging panel 20/24 comprises a two-ply region and a single ply region. The partial reinforcing panel 20 comprises at least one partial retention or engaging structure I RT3, IRT4 disposed in alignment with a retention or engaging structure ORT1, ORT2 in the engaging panel 24 to form a partial two-ply article engaging device IRT3/ORT1, IRT4/ORT2, that is to say an article engaging device IRT3/ORT1, IRT4/ORT2 which is partially two-ply in structure.

The partial reinforcing panel 20 is hingedly connected to the engaging panel 24 by a hinged connection in the form of a first fold line F2, the first fold line F2 is offset with respect to a side edge of the engaging panel 24 adjacent to the partial reinforcing panel 20.

The carrier 90 may comprise at least one partial side panel 22 hingedly connected to the side edge of the engaging panel 24 adjacent to the partial reinforcing panel 20. The at least one partial side panel 22 may be considered to extend into an aperture A3, A4 of a partial retention or engaging structure IRT3, IRT4 in blank form. The at least one partial side panel 22 defines a portion of an edge or perimeter of an aperture A3, A4 of a partial retention or engaging structure IRT3, 1 RT4 in blank form.

The partial retention or engaging structure IRT3, IRT4 may comprise a major tab 42. The major tab 42 extends from an end panel 28A, 28B hingedly connected to the partial reinforcing panel 20. The major tab 42 is disposed adjacent to a partial side panel 22 and is separated therefrom by a cutaway, the cutaway takes the form of a cutline in the illustrated embodiment.

The engaging panel 24; 124; 224; 324; 424 may be coupled to the reinforcing panel 20; 120; 220; 320; 420 by a pair of connecting panels 122A, 122B; 222A, 222B; 322A, 322B; 422A, 422B. A first one of the pair of connecting panels 122A, 122B; 222A, 222B; 322A, 322B; 422A, 422B is hingedly connected to a second of the pair of connecting panels 122A, 122B; 222A, 222B; 322A, 322B; 422A, 422B by a hinged connection. Each of the pair of connecting panels 122A, 122B; 222A, 222B; 322A, 322B; 422A, 422B may comprise at least one article engaging tooth 140, 160; 240, 260; 340, 360; 440, 460 extending therefrom to form a two-ply engaging tooth 140/160; 240/260; 340/360; 440/460. The two plies of the two-ply engaging tooth 140/160; 240/260; 340/360; 440/460 may be adhesively secured together. The two-ply engaging tooth 140/160; 240/260; 340/360; 440/460 may be adhesively secured to a side panel 112 to form a three-ply side panel of the article carrier 190.

The present disclosure also provides an article carrier 90; 190; 290 of the top engaging type comprising a main panel 20; 120; 220 having at least one article engaging structure IRT1, IRT2, IRT3. The at least one article engaging structure IRT1, IRT2, IRT3 includes an aperture A1 , A2, A3 defined, at least in part, by a plurality of engaging teeth 40, 44, 42, 46; 140, 144, 142, 146; 240, 244, 242, 246. The plurality of engaging teeth 40, 44, 42, 46; 140, 144, 142, 146; 240, 244, 242, 246 comprises free edges defining portions of the aperture A1 , A2, A3, respectively. At least one of the plurality of engaging teeth 40, 44, 42, 46; 140, 144, 142, 146; 240, 244, 242, 246 comprises a free edge arranged collinearly with a free edge of an adjacently disposed one of the plurality of engaging teeth 40, 44, 42, 46; 140, 144, 142, 146; 240, 244, 242, 246. The free edge of said at least one of the plurality of engaging teeth 40, 44, 42, 46; 140, 144, 142, 146; 240, 244, 242, 246 is contiguously arranged with the free edge of the adjacently disposed engaging tooth 40, 44, 42, 46; 140, 144, 142, 146; 240, 244, 242, 246.

The present disclosure also provides an article carrier 90; 190 of the top engaging type comprising a first main panel 14; 114 and a second main panel 20, 24; 120, 124 spaced apart from the first main panel 14; 114. The second main panel 20, 24; 120, 124 may comprise at least one article engaging structure ORT1, ORT2, ORT3, ORT4, ORT5, ORTe, ORT1, IRT2, IRT3, IRT4, IRT5, IRTe. The first main panel 14; 114 comprises a pair of locking or male tabs 50; 150 struck from the first main panel 14; 114 and hingedly connected thereto in opposition to one another. The pair of locking tabs 50; 150 is spaced apart by an aperture A7, the aperture A7 forms viewing window through which a portion of the second main panel 20, 24; 120, 124 can be observed. The portion of the second main panel 20, 24; 120, 124 may comprise a pair of receiving openings, a locking tab 50; 150 being received in each of the pair of receiving openings, each receiving opening provides a handle for carrying the article carrier 90; 190.

Each receiving opening may be defined by at least one receiving or female tab 70A, 70B, 72 struck from the second main panel 20, 24; 120, 124 and hingedly connected thereto by a respective hinged connection. Each receiving opening may be defined by three receiving tabs 70A, 70B, 72, including a pair of receiving tabs 70A, 70B hingedly connected to the second main panel 20, 24; 120, 124 by a pair of divergently arranged fold lines 71A, 71 B and separated from each other by a cutline 75. The pair of divergently arranged fold lines 71 A, 71 B comprises proximal ends spaced in close proximity to each other and distal ends distally spaced from each other. The cutline 75 may bisect the pair of divergently arranged fold lines 71 A, 71 B. A third tab 72 is hingedly connected to the second main panel 20, 24; 120, 124 by a further fold line 73. The further fold line is oriented perpendicularly to the cutline 75. The cutline 75 may bisect the further fold line 73. The pair of receiving tabs 70A, 70B may be defined, in part by a second cutline 77 extending between the distal ends of the pair of divergently arranged fold lines 71 A, 71 B. The second cutline 77 is oriented perpendicularly to the first cutline 75. The third tab 72 comprises a free end edge, the free end edge opposes a hinged edge defined by the further fold line 73. The free end edge is provided by a portion of the second cutline 77. The free end edge is shorter in length than the second cutline 77.

The present disclosure also provides an article carrier 190; 390 of the top engaging type comprising a main panel 124; 324 having at least one article retention structure ORT3, ORT4. The at least one article retention structure ORT3, ORT4 includes an aperture A5, A6 defined, at least in part, by a plurality of teeth or tabs 160, 162, 164, 166, 168, 174; 360, 362, 364, 366, 368, 374. The plurality of teeth 160, 162, 164, 166, 168, 174; 360, 362, 364, 366, 368, 374 includes a first or standard tooth 164; 364. The plurality of teeth 160, 162, 164, 166, 168, 174; 360, 362, 364, 366, 368, 374 comprises a second or wide tooth 160, 162; 360, 362, the wide tooth 160, 162; 360, 362 is wider than the standard tooth 164; 364, that is to say is occupies a larger circumferential region about the aperture A5, A6. The plurality of teeth 160, 162, 164, 166, 168, 174; 360, 362, 364, 366, 368, 374 may comprise a third or narrow tooth 166, 168; 366, 368 the narrow tooth 166, 168; 366, 368 is narrower than the standard tooth 164; 364, that is to say is occupies a smaller circumferential region about the aperture A5, A6. The standard tooth 364 and the wide tooth 160, 162; 360, 362 each comprises an engaging end edge opposing a respective hinged connection to the main panel 124; 324, the engaging end edge is configured for supporting or suspending an article therefrom. The plurality of teeth 160, 162, 164, 166, 168, 174; 360, 362, 364, 366, 368, 374 comprises a fourth or tall tooth 174; 374, the tall tooth 174; 374 is taller than the standard tooth 164; 364, that is to say it extends further from its hinged connection to the main panel 124; 324 than the standard tooth 164; 364 extends. In this way the free end edge of the tall tooth 174; 374 is radially offset with respect to the free end edge of the standard tooth 164; 364. The free end edge of the tall tooth 174; 374 may be closer to the center of the aperture A5, A6 than the free end edge of the standard tooth 164; 364. The tall tooth 174; 374 may be employed as an abutment tooth, that is to say the article is not supported or suspended from a free end edge of the tall tooth 174; 374, this is best shown in Figure 8B. The free end edge of the tall tooth 174; 374 opposes a hinged connection of the tall tooth 174; 374 to the main panel 124; 324.

The tall tooth 174; 374 may have substantially the same width as the standard tooth 164; 364.

A free end edge of the wide tooth 360, 362 may be contiguous with a free end edge of an adjacent tooth 366, 368, that is to say there is no radial offset between the free end edge of the wide tooth 360, 362 and the free end edge of an adjacent tooth 366, 368. The free end edge of the wide tooth 360, 362 and the free end edge of the standard tooth 164; 364 may be equidistant from the center of the aperture A5, A6.

The present disclosure also provides an article carrier 190 for packaging at least one article B, the carrier 190 being formed from a single blank 110. The carrier 190 comprises a tubular structure formed from a plurality of panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122A, 122B, 124, 126 comprising an engaging panel 124 having at least one article retention structure ORT3, ORT4 for engaging an article B and for suspending the article B therefrom. The single blank 110 is formed from a substrate having a first surface and a second, opposing, surface. The engaging panel 124 presents the first surface of the substrate as an inner surface of the tubular structure. The plurality of panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122A, 122B, 124, 126 further comprises a cover panel 114 spaced above the engaging panel 124. The cover panel 114 presents the first surface of the substrate as an outer surface of the tubular structure. An end panel 130A, 130B is hingedly connected to an end of the engaging panel 124 and exposes the first surface of the substrate when viewed from an end of the tubular structure.

The first surface of the substrate may be a finished or coated surface optimized for printing, such that the end panel 130A, 130B exposes a printed surface of the article carrier 190. The second surface of the substrate may be unfinished, uncoated, or print free, commonly referred to as a "brown” side of the substrate.

The plurality of panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122A, 122B, 124, 126 may further comprise a base panel 120 disposed in a face-contacting arrangement with the engaging panel 124. The base panel 120 presents the first surface of the substrate as an outer surface of the tubular structure.

The present disclosure also provides an article carrier 590 and a blank 410; 510 for forming the article carrier 590. The article carrier 590, in an erected form, comprises an engaging panel 420/424; 520/524 including an upper ply 424; 524 and a lower ply 420; 520 disposed in a face-contacting arrangement. The lower ply 420; 520 includes at least one lower aperture A8, A9; A8 having an annular series of lower ply tabs 440, 442, 444, 446, T_a; 540, 542, 544, 546, T_a formed around the at least one lower aperture A8, A9; A8. The upper ply 424; 524 includes at least one upper aperture A10, A11 ; A10 arranged substantially coaxially with the at least one lower aperture A8, A9; A8 and has an annular series of upper ply tabs 460, 462, 464, 466, 468; 560, 562, 564, 566, 568 formed around the at least one upper aperture A10, A11 ; A10. At least one of the upper ply tabs 460, 462, 464, 466, 468; 560, 562, 564, 566, 568 is in face-contacting engagement with each of at least two of the lower ply tabs 440, 442, 444, 446, T_a; 540, 542, 544, 546, T_a. A first one of said at least two lower ply tabs 440, 442, 444, 446, T_a; 540, 542, 544, 546, T_a is partially in face-contacting arrangement with the at least one upper ply tab 460, 462, 464, 466, 468; 560, 562, 564, 566, 568. A second one of said at least two lower ply tabs 440, 442, 444, 446, T_a; 540, 542, 544, 546, T_a is entirely in face-contacting arrangement with the at least one upper ply tab 460, 462, 464, 466, 468; 560, 562, 564, 566, 568.

A third one of said at least two lower ply tabs 440, 442, 444, 446, T_a; 540, 542, 544, 546, T_a may be partially in face-contacting arrangement with the at least one upper ply tab 460, 462, 464, 466, 468; 560, 562, 564, 566, 568. The second one of said at least two lower ply tabs 440, 442, 444, 446, T_a; 540, 542, 544, 546, T_a is interposed between the first and third ones of said at least two lower ply tabs 440, 442, 444, 446, T_a; 540, 542, 544, 546, T_a.

A recess C1 , C2 may be defined between the at least one of the upper ply tabs 460, 462, 464, 466, 468; 560, 562, 564, 566, 568 and a next adjacent one of the upper ply tabs 460, 462, 464, 466, 468; 560, 562, 564, 566, 568, and the first one of said at least two lower ply tabs 440, 442, 444, 446, T_a; 540, 542, 544, 546, T_a is exposed to view through the recess C1 , C2 when viewed from the side of the upper ply 424; 524.

At least one of the upper ply tabs 460, 462, 464, 466, 468; 560, 562, 564, 566, 568 may disposed at a corner of the article carrier 590.

At least one further upper ply tab 460, 462, 464, 466, 468; 560, 562, 564, 566, 568 may be in face-contacting engagement with each of at least two of the lower ply tabs 440, 442, 444, 446, T_a; 540, 542, 544, 546, T_a.

The present disclosure also provides a carrier 590 or blank 410; 510 having an engaging panel 420/424; 520/524 comprising a finger or handle opening defined at least in part by at least two finger flaps 570A, 570B, 572A, 572B, 574A, 574B, 576A, 576B. The finger opening is surrounded by four sunburst-style openings, article receiving apertures at least partially surrounded by article engaging tabs 460, 462, 464, 466, 468; 560, 562, 564, 566, 568. The article engaging tabs 460, 462, 464, 466, 468; 560, 562, 564, 566, 568A are hingedly connected to the engaging panel 420/424; 520/524 by a hinged connection. A notional line NL1 , NL2 which passes through the center Cf of the finger opening and the center C_a of a first one of the four sunburst openings, disposed at the corner of the engaging panel 420/424; 520/524, bisects a recess C2 between a pair of adjacent engaging teeth 464; 564 of the first sunburst opening and intersects a hinged connection F3 of an adjacent one of the at least two finger flaps 570A, 570B, 572A, 572B, 574A, 574B, 576A, 576B. The finger or handle opening may be defined by four finger flaps 570A, 570B, 572A, 572B, 574A, 574B, 576A, 576B. The four finger flaps 570A, 570B, 572A, 572B, 574A, 574B, 576A, 576B comprises two pairs of finger flaps 570A, 570B, 572A, 572B, 574A, 574B, 576A, 576B. The finger flaps 570A, 570B, 572A, 572B, 574A, 574B, 576A, 576B of each of pair of finger flaps 570A, 570B, 572A, 572B, 574A, 574B, 576A, 576B may be disposed in opposition to each other.

The hinged connection F3 of the adjacent one of the at least two finger flaps 570A, 570B, 572A, 572B, 574A, 574B, 576A, 576B is oriented obliquely with respect to side and end edges of the engaging panel 420/424; 520/524. The corner of the engaging panel 420/424; 520/524 may be filleted or chamfered. A corner edge of the engaging panel 420/424; 520/524 may be parallel to the hinged connection F3 of the adjacent one of the at least two finger flaps 570A, 570B, 572A, 572B, 574A, 574B, 576A, 576B.

The present disclosure also provides a carrier 590 or blank 410; 510 having an engaging panel 420/424; 520/524 comprising a finger or handle opening defined at least in part by at least two finger flaps 570A, 570B, 572A, 572B, 574A, 574B, 576A, 576B. The finger opening is surrounded by four sunburst-style openings, article receiving apertures at least partially surrounded by article engaging tabs 460, 462, 464, 466, 468; 560, 562, 564, 566, 568. The article engaging tabs 460, 462, 464, 466, 468; 560, 562, 564, 566, 568A are hingedly connected to the engaging panel 420/424; 520/524 by a hinged connection. A notional line NL1 , NL2 which passes through the center C_a of a first one of the four sunburst openings and a center C_a of a second one of the four sunburst openings, bisects a recess C2 between a pair of adjacent engaging teeth 464; 564 in each of the first and second sunburst openings and intersects a hinged connection F3 of an adjacent one of the at least two finger flaps 570A, 570B, 572A, 572B, 574A, 574B, 576A, 576B. The finger or handle opening is disposed between the first and second sunburst openings. The notional line NL1 , NL2 may also pass through the center Cf of the finger opening. The notional line NL1 , NL2 may intersect or bisect a hinged connection F3 of an opposed pair of the at least two finger flaps 570A, 570B, 572A, 572B, 574A, 574B, 576A, 576B.

Referring to Figures 1 -4 and 14-19, the present disclosure also provides a top engaging article carrier 90; 190; 690; 790 for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises an upper main panel 14; 114; 312; 120; 220 and a lower main panel 24; 124; 316; 112; 212 spaced apart from the upper main panel 14; 114; 312; 120; 220. The lower main panel 24; 124; 316; 112; 212 comprises at least one article engaging structure A5, A6; A5, A6; RT; RT; RT3. The upper main panel 14; 114; 312; 120; 220 comprises a handle access aperture A7; A7; A5; A7, A9 in the upper main panel 14; 114; 312; 120; 220, wherein the handle access aperture A7; A7; A5; A7, A9 provides a single access window through which at least two handle openings H2, H2; H2, H2; H3, H3; RC, RC; RC, RC in the lower main panel 24; 124; 316; 112; 212 are accessible. The at least two handle openings H2, H2; H2, H2; H3, H3; RC, RC; RC, RC provide therebetween a handle for carrying the article carrier.

The handle access aperture A7; A7; A5; A7, A9 may be defined at least in part by at least one foldable tab 50, 50; 150, 150; 352; 352; 150, 150; 250, 250 which may be connected to the upper main panel 14; 114; 312; 120; 220.

The at least one foldable tab 50, 50; 150, 150; 352; 352; 150, 150; 250, 250 may be received in part in at least one of the at least two handle openings H2, H2; H2, H2; H3, H3; RC, RC; RC, RC to secure the upper main panel 14; 114; 312; 120; 220 to the lower main panel 24; 124; 316; 112; 212.

The at least one foldable tab 50, 50; 150, 150; 352; 352; 150, 150; 250, 250 may comprise a pair of locking tabs. The locking tabs 50, 50; 150, 150; 352; 352; 150, 150; 250, 250 may be disposed in opposition to one another such that the locking tabs 50, 50; 150, 150; 352; 352; 150, 150; 250, 250 define therebetween the handle access aperture A7; A7; A5; A7, A9 when folded with respect to the upper main panel 14; 114; 312; 120; 220.

Referring further to Figures 1 -4 and 14-19, the present disclosure also provides a top engaging article carrier 90; 190; 690; 790 for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises an upper main panel 14; 114; 312; 120; 220 and a lower main panel 24; 124; 316; 112; 212 spaced apart from the upper main panel 14; 114; 312; 120; 220. The lower main panel 24; 124; 316; 112; 212 comprises at least one article engaging structure A5, A6; A5, A6; RT; RT; RT3. The upper main panel 14; 114; 312; 120; 220 comprises a handle access aperture A7; A7; A5; A7, A9 in the upper main panel 14; 114; 312; 120; 220, wherein the handle access aperture A7; A7; A5; A7, A9 extends between a first location and a second location. The first location is vertically aligned with a first handle opening H2; H2; H3; RC; RC in the lower main panel 24; 124; 316; 112; 212 while the second location is vertically aligned with a second handle opening H2; H2; H3; RC; RC in the lower main panel 24; 124; 316; 112; 212.lt 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. The shoulder panels may be omitted. The present invention is not limited to cartons of the topengaging type, the invention may be employed with other carton styles such as, but not limited to, open top crates, lidded or closed top crates.

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/l inear or curved/curvil inear in shape. When linear fold lines form a hinged connection, they may be disposed parallel with each other or be slightly angled with respect to each other. When curvilinear fold lines form a hinged connection, they may intersect each other to define a shaped panel within the area surrounded by the curvilinear fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may comprise a pair of arched or arcuate fold lines intersecting at two points such that they define an elliptical panel therebetween. A hinged connection may be formed from one or more linear fold lines and one or more curvilinear fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may comprise a combination of a linear fold line and an arched or arcuate fold line which intersect at two points such that they define a half-moon shaped panel therebetween.

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

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

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

Claims

1 . A top engaging article carrier for packaging at least one article, the article carrier comprising an upper main panel and a lower main panel spaced apart from the upper main panel, the lower main panel comprising at least one article engaging structure, the upper main panel comprising a handle access aperture in the upper main panel, wherein the handle access aperture provides a single access window through which at least two handle openings in the lower main panel are accessible, the at least two handle openings providing therebetween a handle for carrying the article carrier.

2 A top engaging article carrier according to claim 1 , wherein the handle access aperture is defined at least in part by at least one foldable tab which is connected to the upper main panel.

3 A top engaging article carrier according to claim 2, wherein the at least one foldable tab is received in part in at least one of the at least two handle openings to secure the upper main panel to the lower main panel.

4 A top engaging carrier according to claim 2, wherein the at least one foldable tab comprises a pair of locking tabs, the locking tabs being disposed in opposition to one another such that the locking tabs define therebetween the handle access aperture when folded with respect to the upper main panel.

5 A top engaging article carrier for packaging at least one article, the article carrier comprising an upper main panel and a lower main panel spaced apart from the upper main panel, the lower main panel comprising at least one article engaging structure, the upper main panel comprising a handle access aperture in the upper main panel, wherein the handle access aperture extends between a first location and a second location, the first location being vertically aligned with a first handle opening in the lower main panel, the second location being vertically aligned with a second handle opening in the lower main panel.

6 A top engaging article carrier according to claim 5, wherein the handle access aperture is defined at least in part by at least one foldable tab which is connected to the upper main panel.

7 A top engaging article carrier according to claim 6, wherein the at least one foldable tab is received in part in at least one of the first and second handle openings to secure the upper main panel to the lower main panel.

8 A top engaging carrier according to claim 6, wherein the at least one foldable tab comprises a pair of locking tabs, the locking tabs being disposed in opposition to one another such that the locking tabs define therebetween the handle access aperture when folded with respect to the upper main panel.

9 A top engaging article carrier for packaging at least one article, the article carrier comprising an engaging board of a partial two-ply structure, the engaging board including a first panel and a second panel, each of the first and second panels comprising at least one article engaging structure, the at least one article engaging structure in the first panel being aligned with the at least one article engaging structure in the second panel, wherein the second panel is a partial reinforcing layer disposed in partial overlapping relationship with the first panel such that the first and second panels together form the partial two-ply structure, the partial two-ply structure comprising a two-ply region and a single ply region.

10. A top engaging article carrier according to claim 9, wherein the at least one article engaging structure in the second panel comprises at least one partial article engaging structure disposed in alignment with the at least one article engaging structure in the first panel to form a partial two-ply article engaging device.

11. A top engaging article carrier according to claim 10, wherein the second panel is hingedly connected to the first panel by a hinged connection, the hinged connection being offset with respect to a side edge of the first panel.

12. A top engaging article carrier according to claim 11 , further comprising at least one partial side panel hingedly connected to the side edge of the first panel, the at least one partial side panel extending into an aperture of the at least one partial article engaging structure of the second panel in blank form, such that the at least one partial side panel defines a portion of a perimeter of the aperture of the at least one partial article engaging structure.

13. A top engaging article carrier according to claim 10, wherein the at least one partial article engaging structure comprises a major tab, the major tab extending from an end panel hingedly connected to the second panel.

14. A top engaging article engaging carrier according to claim 13, wherein the major tab is disposed adjacent to at least one partial side panel hingedly connected to a side edge of the first panel, and the major tab being separated from the at least one partial side panel by a cutline in blank form.

15. A top engaging article carrier for packaging at least one article, the article carrier comprising an engaging board of a two-ply structure, the engaging board including an engaging panel and a reinforcing panel, each of the panels of the engaging board comprising at least one article engaging structure, the at least one article engaging structure in the engaging panel being aligned with the at least one article engaging structure in the reinforcing panel, wherein the engaging panel is coupled to the reinforcing panel by a pair of connecting panels, a first one of the pair of connecting panels is hingedly connected to a second one of the pair of connecting panels by a hinged connection and wherein each of the pair of connecting panels comprises at least one article engaging tooth extending therefrom to form a two-ply engaging tooth, wherein the at least one article engaging tooth of the first one of the pair of connecting panels is adhesively secured to the at least one article engaging tooth of the second one of the pair of connecting panels.

16. A top-engaging article carrier according to claim 15, wherein the two-ply engaging tooth is adhesively secured to a side panel to form a three-ply side panel of the article carrier.

17. A top engaging article carrier for packaging at least one article, the article carrier comprising a main panel having at least one article engaging structure, the at least one article engaging structure including an aperture defined, at least in part, by a plurality of engaging teeth, each of the plurality of engaging teeth comprising a free edge, the free edges defining portions of the aperture respectively, the free edge of at least one of the plurality of engaging teeth comprises a linear free edge arranged collinearly with a linear portion of the free edge of an adjacently disposed one of the plurality of engaging teeth.

18. A top engaging article carrier according to claim 17, wherein the linear free edge of said at least one of the plurality of engaging teeth is contiguously arranged with the linear portion of the free edge of the adjacently disposed engaging tooth.

19. A top engaging article carrier according to claim 17, wherein the linear free edge of the at least one of the plurality of engaging teeth is collinearly arranged with a linear portion of the free edge of another one of the plurality of engaging teeth, said another tooth being disposed adjacent to the at least one of the plurality of engaging teeth.

20. A top engaging article carrier for packaging at least one article, the article carrier comprising a main panel having at least one article engaging structure, the at least one article engaging structure including an aperture defined, at least in part, by a plurality of engaging teeth, each of the plurality of engaging teeth comprising a free edge, the free edges defining portions of the aperture respectively, the free edge of at least one of the plurality of engaging teeth comprises a linear free edge arranged collinearly with a linear portion of the free edge of each of a pair of adjacently disposed ones of the plurality of engaging teeth.

21. A top engaging article carrier for packaging at least one article, the article carrier comprising a first main panel and a second main panel spaced apart from the first main panel, the second main panel comprising at least one article engaging structure, the first main panel comprising a pair of locking tabs struck from the first main panel and hingedly connected thereto in opposition to one another, the pair of locking tabs being spaced apart by an aperture, wherein the aperture forms a viewing window through which a portion of the second main panel can be observed, the portion of the second main panel comprises a pair of receiving openings, and wherein the locking tabs are received in the receiving openings respectively to secure the first main panel to the second main panel, the receiving openings providing a handle for carrying the article carrier.

22. A top engaging article carrier according to claim 21 , wherein each of the receiving openings is defined by at least one receiving tab struck from the second main panel and hingedly connected thereto by a respective hinged connection.

23. A top engaging article carrier according to claim 21 , wherein each of the receiving openings is defined by three receiving tabs, the three receiving tabs including a pair of receiving tabs hingedly connected to the second main panel by a pair of divergently arranged fold lines, the pair of receiving tabs being separated from each other by a first cutline, the pair of divergently arranged fold lines comprising proximal ends, spaced in close proximity to each other, and distal ends, spaced distally from each other.

24. A top engaging article carrier according to claim 23, wherein the first cutline bisects the pair of divergently arranged fold lines.

25. A top engaging article carrier according to claim 23, wherein the three receiving tabs of each of the receiving openings further includes a third tab hingedly connected to the second main panel by a further fold line, the further fold line being oriented perpendicularly to the first cutline.

26. A top engaging article carrier according to claim 25, wherein the first cutline is disposed at a position bisecting the further fold line.

27. A top engaging article carrier according to claim 23, wherein the pair of receiving tabs are defined, in part, by a second cutline extending between the distal ends of the pair of divergently arranged fold lines.

28. A top engaging article carrier according to claim 27, wherein the second cutline is oriented perpendicularly to the first cutline.

29. A top engaging article carrier according to claim 25, wherein the third tab comprises a free end edge, the free end edge of the third tab opposes a hinged edge defined by the further fold line.

30. A top engaging article carrier according to claim 29, wherein the free end edge of the third tab is provided by a portion of a second cutline extending between the distal ends of the pair of divergently arranged fold lines, the free end edge of the third tab being shorter in length than the second cutline.

31 . A top engaging article carrier for packaging at least one article, the article carrier comprising a main panel having at least one article retention structure, the at least one article retention structure including an aperture defined, at least in part, by a plurality of teeth, the plurality of teeth including a standard tooth, a wide tooth, the wide tooth being wider than the standard tooth, and a tall tooth, the tall tooth is taller than the standard tooth, wherein the standard tooth and the wide tooth each comprises an engaging end edge opposing a respective hinged connection to the main panel to form engaging teeth, the engaging end edge of each of the standard tooth and the wide tooth is configured for suspending an article therefrom, and wherein the tall tooth is employable as an abutment tooth.

32. A top engaging article carrier for packaging at least one article, the article carrier comprising a main panel having at least one article retention structure, the at least one article retention structure including an aperture defined, at least in part, by a plurality of teeth, the plurality of teeth including a standard tooth, a wide tooth, the wide tooth being wider than the standard tooth, and a tall tooth, the tall tooth is taller than the standard tooth, wherein the standard tooth and the wide tooth each comprise an engaging end edge opposing a respective hinged connection to the main panel to form engaging teeth, the engaging end edge of each of the standard tooth and the wide tooth is configured for suspending an article therefrom, and wherein the tall tooth is employable as an abutment tooth or engaging tooth.

33. A package comprising a top engaging article carrier and at least one article, the article carrier comprising a main panel having at least one article retention structure, the at least one article retention structure including an aperture defined, at least in part, by a plurality of teeth, the plurality of teeth including a standard tooth, a wide tooth, the wide tooth being wider than the standard tooth, and a tall tooth, the tall tooth being taller than the standard tooth, wherein the standard tooth and the wide tooth each comprise an engaging end edge opposing a respective hinged connection to the main panel, the engaging end edge of each of the standard tooth and the wide tooth engages below a projection of the article, suspending an article therefrom, the tall tooth is employed as an abutment tooth wherein a free end edge of the tall tooth is disposed above the projection from which the article is suspended, the free end edge of the tall tooth opposes a hinged connection of the tall tooth to the main panel.

34. A package according to claim 33, wherein the plurality of teeth comprises a narrow tooth, the narrow tooth is narrower than the standard tooth.

35. A package according to claim 33, wherein the tall tooth extends further from its hinged connection than the standard tooth extending from its hinged connection.

36. A package according to claim 33, wherein the free end edge of the tall tooth is radially offset with respect to the free end edge of the standard tooth when the top engaging carrier is in a blank form.

37. A package according to claim 33, wherein the free end edge of the tall tooth is closer to the center of the aperture than the free end edge of the standard tooth when the top engaging carrier is in a blank form.

38. A package according to claim 33, wherein the tall tooth has substantially the same width as the standard tooth.

39. A package according to claim 33, wherein a free end edge of the wide tooth is contiguous with a free end edge of an adjacent tooth.

40. A package according to claim 33, wherein a free end edge of the wide tooth and a free end edge of the standard tooth are equidistant from the center of the aperture.

41. A blank for forming a top engaging article carrier, the blank comprising panels for forming an engaging board which includes an engaging panel and a reinforcing panel, each of the panels comprises at least one article engaging structure, the at least one article engaging structure in a first one of the panels being configured to be aligned with the at least one article engaging structure in a second one of the panels, wherein the reinforcing panel is a partial reinforcing layer arranged to be disposed in partial overlapping relationship with the engaging panel such that the reinforcing panel and the engaging panel together form the engaging board of a partial two- ply structure, the partial two-ply structure comprising a two-ply region and a single ply region.

42. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising panels for forming engaging board including an engaging panel and a reinforcing panel, each of the panels comprising at least one article engaging structure, the at least one article engaging structure in a first one of the panels being configured to be aligned with the at least one article engaging structure in a second one of the panels, wherein the engaging panel is coupled to the reinforcing panel by a pair of connecting panels, a first one of the pair of connecting panels is hingedly connected to a second one of the pair of connecting panels by a hinged connection and wherein each of the pair of connecting panels comprises at least one article engaging tooth extending therefrom to form a adhesively secured two-ply engaging tooth in a setup carrier.

43. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a main panel having at least one article engaging structure, the at least one article engaging structure including an aperture defined, at least in part, by a plurality of engaging teeth, each of the plurality of engaging teeth comprising a free edge, the free edges defining portions of the aperture respectively, the free edge of at least one of the plurality of engaging teeth comprises a linear free edge arranged collinearly with a linear portion of the free edge of an adjacently disposed one of the plurality of engaging teeth.

44. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a main panel having at least one article engaging structure, the at least one article engaging structure including an aperture defined, at least in part, by a plurality of engaging teeth, each of the plurality of engaging teeth comprising a free edge, the free edges defining portions of the aperture respectively, the free edge of at least one of the plurality of engaging teeth comprises a linear free edge arranged collinearly with a linear portion of the free edge of each of a pair of adjacently disposed ones of the plurality of engaging teeth.

45. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a first main panel and a second main panel, the second main panel comprising at least one article engaging structure, the first main panel comprising a pair of locking tabs struck from the first main panel and hingedly connected thereto in opposition to one another, the pair of locking tabs being spaced apart by an aperture, wherein the aperture forms a viewing window through which a portion of the second main panel can be observed, the portion of the second main panel comprises a pair of receiving openings, and wherein the locking tabs are receivable in the receiving openings respectively to secure the first main panel to the second main panel, the receiving openings providing a handle in a setup article carrier.

46. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a main panel having at least one article retention structure, the at least one article retention structure including an aperture defined, at least in part, by a plurality of teeth, the plurality of teeth including: a standard tooth; a wide tooth, the wide tooth being wider than the standard tooth; and a tall tooth, the tall tooth being taller than the standard tooth, wherein the standard tooth and the wide tooth each comprise an engaging end edge opposing a respective hinged connection to the main panel to form engaging teeth, the engaging end edge of the standard tooth and the wide tooth is configured for suspending an article therefrom, and wherein the tall tooth is employable as an abutment tooth or engaging tooth.

47. A blank according to claim 46, wherein the wide tooth comprises a pair of opposed side edges which are defined by a pair of cutlines, respectively.

48. A blank according to claim 46, wherein the wide tooth comprises a pair of opposed side edges, one of the opposed side edges being defined by a cutline, the other of the side edges being defined by a cutaway.

49. A blank according to claim 46, wherein the tall tooth comprises a pair of opposed side edges, one of the opposed side edges being defined by a cutline, the other of the side edges being defined by a cutaway.

50. A blank according to claim 46, wherein the standard tooth comprises a pair of opposed side edges which are defined by a pair of cutlines, respectively.

51. A blank according to claim 46, wherein the standard tooth comprises a pair of opposed side edges which are defined by a pair of cutaways, respectively.

52. An article carrier for packaging at least one article, the carrier being formed from a single blank, the carrier comprising a tubular structure formed from a plurality of panels including an engaging panel having at least one article retention structure for engaging an article and for suspending the article therefrom, the single blank being formed from a substrate having a first surface and a second, opposing, surface wherein the engaging panel presents the first surface of the substrate as an inner surface of the tubular structure, the plurality of panels further comprises a cover panel spaced above the engaging panel, and wherein the cover panel presents the first surface of the substrate as an outer surface of the tubular structure.

53. An article carrier according to claim 52, wherein the carrier further comprises an end panel hingedly connected to an end of the engaging panel and exposes the first surface of the substrate when viewed from an end of the tubular structure.

54. An article carrier according to claim 52, wherein the plurality of panels further comprises a base panel disposed in a face-contacting arrangement with the engaging panel, and wherein the base panel presents the first surface of the substrate as an outer surface of the tubular structure.

55. An article carrier, in an erected form, comprising an engaging panel including an upper ply and a lower ply disposed in a face-contacting arrangement, the lower ply including at least one lower aperture having an annular series of lower ply tabs formed around the at least one lower aperture, the upper ply including at least one upper aperture arranged substantially coaxially with the at least one lower aperture and having an annular series of upper ply tabs formed around the at least one upper aperture, wherein one of the upper ply tabs is in facecontacting engagement with at least two of the lower ply tabs, a first one of the at least two lower ply tabs is partially in face-contacting arrangement with the one of the upper ply tabs, a second one of the at least two lower ply tabs is entirely in face-contacting arrangement with the one of the upper ply tabs.

56. An article carrier according to claim 55, wherein a third one of the at least two lower ply tabs is partially in facecontacting arrangement with the one of the upper ply tabs, and the second one of the at least two lower ply tabs is interposed between the first and third ones of the at least two lower ply tabs.

57. An article carrier according to claim 55, wherein a recess is defined between the one of the upper ply tabs and an adjacent one of the upper ply tabs, and the first one of the at least two lower ply tabs is exposed to view through the recess when viewed from the side of the upper ply.

58. An article carrier according to claim 55, wherein a second one of the upper ply tabs is in face-contacting engagement with at least two of the lower ply tabs.

59. An article carrier according to claim 55, wherein the one of the upper ply tabs is disposed at a corner of the article carrier.

60. An article carrier for packaging at least one article, the carrier having an engaging panel comprising a finger opening defined at least in part by at least two finger flaps hingedly connected to the engaging panel, the finger opening is surrounded by four article receiving openings each comprising an aperture at least partially surrounded by article engaging tabs, the article engaging tabs are hingedly connected to the engaging panel, wherein a notional line which passes through a center of the finger opening and a center of a first one of the four article receiving openings bisects a recess between a pair of adjacent ones of the engaging tabs of the first one of the four article receiving openings and intersects a hinged connection of an adjacent one of the at least two finger flaps, and wherein the first one of the four article receiving openings is disposed at a corner of the engaging panel.

61 . An article carrier according to claim 60, wherein the finger opening is defined by four finger flaps.

62. An article carrier according to claim 60, wherein said four finger flaps comprises two pairs of opposed finger flaps.

63. An article carrier according to claim 62, wherein the finger flaps of each of the pairs of opposed finger flaps are hinged to the engaging panel in opposition to each other.

64. An article carrier according to claim 60, wherein the hinged connection of the adjacent one of the at least two finger flaps is oriented obliquely with respect to end and side edges of the engaging panel.

65. An article carrier according to claim 60, wherein the corner of the engaging panel is filleted.

66. An article carrier according to claim 65, wherein a corner edge of the engaging panel is parallel to the hinged connection of the adjacent one of the at least two finger flaps.

67. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a primary panel having a finger opening defined at least in part by at least two finger flaps hingedly connected to the primary panel, the finger opening is surrounded by four article receiving openings each comprising an aperture at least partially surrounded by article engaging tabs, the article engaging tabs are hingedly connected to the engaging panel, wherein a notional line which passes through a center of the finger opening and a center of a first one of the four article receiving openings bisects a recess between a pair of adjacent ones of the engaging tabs of the first one of the four article receiving openings and intersects a hinged connection of an adjacent one of the at least two finger flaps, and wherein the first one of the four article receiving openings is disposed at a corner of the engaging panel..

68. An article carrier for packaging at least one article, the carrier having an engaging panel comprising a finger opening defined at least in part by at least two finger flaps hingedly connected to the engaging panel, the finger opening is surrounded by four article receiving openings each comprising an aperture at least partially surrounded by article engaging tabs, wherein a notional line which passes through the center of a first one of the four article receiving openings and a center of a second one of the four article receiving openings, bisects a recess between a pair of adjacent ones of the engaging tabs in each of the first and second ones of the four article receiving openings and intersects a hinged connection of an adjacent one of the at least two finger flaps.

69. An article carrier according to claim 68, wherein the finger opening is disposed between the first and second ones of the four article receiving openings.

70. An article carrier according to claim 68, wherein the notional line passes through the center of the finger opening.

71. An article carrier according to claim 68, wherein the notional line intersects a hinged connection of each of opposed ones of the at least two finger flaps.

72. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a primary panel having a finger opening defined at least in part by at least two finger flaps hingedly connected to the primary panel, the finger opening is surrounded by four article receiving openings each comprising an aperture at least partially surrounded by article engaging tabs, wherein a notional line which passes through the center of a first one of the four article receiving openings and a center of a second one of the four article receiving openings, bisects a recess between a pair of adjacent ones of the engaging tabs in each of the first and second article receiving openings and intersects a hinged connection of an adjacent one of the at least two finger flaps.