EP4793195A1

EP4793195A1 - Carton and blank therefor

Info

Publication number: EP4793195A1
Application number: EP25216324.1A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Bartlomiej STEPKOWSKI
Original assignee: WestRock Packaging Systems LLC
Current assignee: WestRock Packaging Systems LLC
Priority date: 2024-11-18
Filing date: 2025-11-17
Publication date: 2026-08-19

Abstract

Aspects of the disclosure relate to a package, a carton (90) for packaging a plurality of articles (B), and to a blank (10) for forming the carton (90). The carton (90) comprising a plurality of panels which includes a pair of panels (12, 28) and a locking device for securing the pair of panels (12, 28) in a face-contacting arrangement with each other. The locking device comprises a pair of first engaging elements (40, 42, 50, 52) provided by one of the pair of panels (12, 28) for engaging with one or more second engaging elements (40, 42, 50, 52) provided by the other one of the pair of panels (12, 28). The first engaging elements (40, 42, 50, 52) comprise a pair of tabs (40, 42, 50, 52) which are detachably interconnected along a frangible line (F2, F3).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to cartons and to blanks for forming the same. More specifically, but not exclusively, the invention relates to a carton of the wrap around style and comprising a buttress structure for interconnecting a pair of overlapping panels.

BACKGROUND

In the field of packaging, it is known to provide article carriers or cartons for carrying multiple articles. Cartons are well known in the art and are useful for enabling consumers to transport, store and access a group of articles for consumption. For cost and environmental considerations, such cartons or carriers need to be formed from as little material as possible and cause as little wastage in the materials from which they are formed as possible. Further considerations are the strength of the carton and its suitability for holding and transporting large weights of articles. It is desirable that the contents of the carton are secure within the carton.
It is an object of the present invention to provide a carton or carrier to enable two or more articles to be transported; in particular providing a package which can be inserted into a crate having pinnacles or pillar extending from a base thereof.
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 a blank for forming a carton. The blank comprises a plurality of panels which includes a pair of panels and a locking device for securing the pair of panels in a face-contacting arrangement with each other. The locking device comprises a pair of first engaging elements provided by one of the pair of panels for engaging with one or more second engaging elements provided by the other one of the pair of panels. The first engaging elements comprise a pair of tabs which are detachably interconnected along a frangible line.
Optionally, the frangible line is disposed perpendicularly to an adjacent free end edge of the one of the pair of panels.
Optionally, at least one of the tabs is detachably connected to the one of the pair of panels.
Optionally, the at least one of the tabs is detachably connected at its distal end to the one of the pair of panels.
Optionally, the at least one of the tabs is a male tab, wherein the male tab comprises a distal portion hingedly connected to the remainder of the male tab, and wherein the distal end is provided by the distal portion of the male tab.
Optionally, the distal portion is connected to the remainder of the male tab by a distal portion fold line, and wherein the distal portion fold line is disposed in generally the same orientation as a tab fold line by which an associated one of the one or more second engaging elements is connected to the other one of the pair of panels.
A second aspect of the invention provides a carton for packaging a plurality of articles. The carton comprises a plurality of panels which comprises a pair of first and second overlapping panels. The carton comprises a buttress structure for securing the first and second panels in an overlapping arrangement. The buttress structure comprises a pair of first tabs and a pair of second tabs each in engagement with one of the first tabs. The first tabs are foldably connected to the first panel by a pair of first divergent fold lines respectively. The first tabs are folded with respect to the first panel so as to define, at least in part, a single locking opening in the first panel. The second tabs are foldably connected to the second panel by a pair of second divergent fold lines. The second tabs are folded with respect to the second panel and received in the locking opening such that the second tabs are brought into engagement with the first tabs respectively. The first tabs are spaced apart from each other to define therebetween at least part of a chamber for receiving an activation tool inserted through the locking opening.
Optionally, the first divergent fold lines are spaced apart from each other by the locking opening.
Optionally, the second tabs are spaced apart from each other to further define said chamber.
Optionally, the locking opening includes at least one extension for receiving a portion of the activation tool, the at least one extension comprises at least one slot extending outwardly from the remainder of the locking opening.
Optionally, the at least one slot extends from a first point away from the first tabs, the first point being defined by an intersection of notional extensions of the first divergent fold lines.
Optionally, the first divergent fold lines divergently extend toward a free end of the first panel.
Optionally, the first panel is hingedly connected one of the plurality of panels by a third fold line which defines an end of the first panel opposite the free end of the first panel.
Optionally, the at least one slot extends away from a free end of the first panel.
Optionally, the first divergent fold lines divergently extend toward the free end of the first panel.
A third aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming a carton. The blank comprising a plurality of panels for defining an interior of the carton. The plurality of panels comprises a first panel and a second panel. The blank further comprises a locking device for securing the first and second panels in an overlapping arrangement. The locking device comprises a pair of first tabs foldably connected to the first panel by a pair of first divergent fold lines respectively. The first tabs define, at least in part, a single locking opening in the first panel when folded out of a plane of the first panel. The locking device further comprises second tabs foldably connected to the second panel by a pair of second divergent fold lines respectively. The second tabs are foldable to be received in the locking opening such that the second tabs are brought into engagement with the first tabs respectively. The first divergent fold lines are spaced apart from each other by the locking opening.
Optionally, the first panel is formed with a scrap-out area, in the form of an aperture, preformed therein, the scrap-out area is interposed between the first divergent fold lines to space the first divergent fold lines apart from each other, the scrap-out area being part of the locking opening when the first tabs are folded out of the plane of the first panel.
Optionally, the first tabs are detachably interconnected along a frangible line.
Optionally, at least one of the first tabs is detachably connected to the first panel.
A fourth aspect of the invention provides a carton for packaging a plurality of articles. The carton comprises a plurality of panels which comprises a pair of first and second overlapping panels. The carton also comprises a buttress structure for securing the first and second panels in an overlapping arrangement. The buttress structure comprises a pair of first tabs and a pair of second tabs in engagement respectively with the first tabs. The first tabs are foldably connected to the first panel and are folded with respect to the first panel so as to define, at least in part, a single locking opening in the first panel. The second tabs are foldably connected to the second panel, are folded with respect to the second panel, and are received in the locking opening to form the buttress structure. In the buttress structure, a first one of the second tabs and a first one of the first tabs each serves as a buttress against the other, and a second one of the second tabs and a second one of the first tabs each serves as a buttress against the other.
Optionally, the first one of the second tabs and the first one of the first tabs each comprises a supporting edge which is in abutment on the other of the first one of the second tabs and the first one of the first tabs while the second one of the second tabs and the second one of the first tabs each comprises a supporting edge which is in abutment on the other of the second one of the second tabs and the second one of the first tabs.
Optionally, the supporting edge of each of the first one of the second tabs and the first one of the first tabs defines in part a recess in the respective one of the first one of the second tabs and the first one of the first tabs.
Optionally, the supporting edge of each of the second one of the second tabs and the second one of the first tabs defines in part a recess in the respective one of the second one of the second tabs and the second one of the first tabs.
Optionally, the first tabs are foldably connected to the first panel by a pair of first divergent fold lines, respectively.
Optionally, the second tabs are foldably connected to the second panel by a pair of second divergent fold lines respectively.
A fifth aspect of the invention provides a carton for packaging a plurality of articles. The carton comprises a plurality of panels for defining an interior of the carton. The plurality of panels comprises a top panel and a side panel foldably connected to the top panel. The carton comprises a strap handle formed in part from the top panel and in part from the side panel. The strap handle extends across the top panel and is joined at an end portion thereof to the side panel for movement between a stowed position, where an intermediate portion of the strap handle is disposed in a plane of the top panel, and a raised position, where the intermediate portion is bowed and disposed above the top panel. The end portion of the strap handle is moved into the interior of the carton when the strap handle is in the raised position. The strap handle comprises a foldable flap adapted to be pressed against one of a group of articles received, at least in part, in the interior of the carton. The foldable flap folds with respect to the strap handle when the strap handle is moved from the stowed position toward the raised position such that stress in the strap handle increases gradually. The foldable flap is detachably connected initially to the top panel.
Optionally, the foldable flap comprises a first portion formed from the top panel and a second portion formed from the side panel, the first portion is detachably connected to the top panel along a severance line which is disposed above an upper end of the one of the articles when the strap handle is in the stowed position.
A sixth aspect of the invention provides a carton for packaging a plurality of articles. The carton comprises a plurality of panels for defining an interior of the carton. The plurality of panels comprises a top panel and a side panel foldably connected to the top panel. The carton comprises a strap handle formed in part from the top panel and in part from the side panel. The strap handle extends across the top panel and is joined at an end portion thereof to the side panel for movement between a stowed position, where an intermediate portion of the strap handle is disposed in a plane of the top panel, and a raised position, where the intermediate portion is bowed and disposed above the top panel. The end portion of the strap handle is moved into the interior of the carton when the strap handle is in the raised position. The strap handle comprises a foldable flap adapted to be pressed against one of a group of articles received, at least in part, in the interior of the carton. The foldable flap folds with respect to the strap handle when the strap handle is moved from the stowed position toward the raised position such that stress in the strap handle increases gradually. The strap handle further comprises a handle flap foldably connected to the intermediate portion thereof. The handle flap is disposed next to the foldable flap and is separated therefrom by a weakened line. The weakened line defines a common end edge of each of the handle flap and the foldable flap when the strap handle is in the stowed position.
A seventh aspect of the invention provides a carton for packaging a plurality of articles. The carton comprises a plurality of panels which includes a pair of panels and a locking device for securing the pair of panels in a face-contacting arrangement with each other. The locking device comprises a pair of first engaging elements provided by one of the pair of panels for engaging with one or more second engaging elements provided by the other one of the pair of panels. The first engaging elements comprise a pair of tabs which are detachably interconnected along a frangible line.
An eighth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming a carton. The blank comprises a plurality of panels which comprises a pair of first and second overlapping panels. The blank comprises a buttress structure for securing the first and second panels in an overlapping arrangement. The buttress structure comprises a pair of first tabs and a pair of second tabs each in engagement with one of the first tabs. The first tabs are foldably connected to the first panel by a pair of first divergent fold lines respectively. The first tabs are foldable with respect to the first panel so as to define, at least in part, a single locking opening in the first panel. The second tabs are foldably connected to the second panel by a pair of second divergent fold lines. The second tabs are foldable with respect to the second panel and received in the locking opening such that the second tabs are brought into engagement with the first tabs respectively. The first tabs are spaced apart from each other in a setup carton to define therebetween at least part of a chamber for receiving an activation tool inserted through the locking opening.
A nineth aspect of the invention provides a carton for packaging a plurality of articles. The carton comprises a plurality of panels for defining an interior of the carton. The plurality of panels comprises a first panel and a second panel. The carton further comprises a locking device for securing the first and second panels in an overlapping arrangement. The locking device comprises a pair of first tabs foldably connected to the first panel by a pair of first divergent fold lines respectively. The first tabs define, at least in part, a single locking opening in the first panel when folded out of a plane of the first panel. The locking device further comprises second tabs foldably connected to the second panel by a pair of second divergent fold lines respectively. The second tabs are foldable to be received in the locking opening such that the second tabs are brought into engagement with the first tabs respectively. The first divergent fold lines are spaced apart from each other by the locking opening.
A tenth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming a carton. The blank comprises a plurality of panels for defining an interior of the carton. The plurality of panels comprises a top panel and a side panel foldably connected to the top panel. The blank comprises a strap handle formed in part from the top panel and in part from the side panel. The strap handle extends across the top panel and is joined at an end portion thereof to the side panel for movement between a stowed position, where an intermediate portion of the strap handle is disposed in a plane of the top panel, and a raised position, where the intermediate portion is bowed and disposed above the top panel. The end portion of the strap handle is moved into the interior of the carton when the strap handle is in the raised position. The strap handle comprises a foldable flap adapted to be pressed against one of a group of articles received, at least in part, in the interior of a set-up carton. The foldable flap folds with respect to the strap handle when the strap handle is moved from the stowed position toward the raised position such that stress in the strap handle increases gradually. The foldable flap is detachably connected initially to the top panel.
An eleventh aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming a carton. The blank comprises a plurality of panels for defining an interior of the carton. The plurality of panels comprises a top panel and a side panel foldably connected to the top panel. The blank comprises a strap handle formed in part from the top panel and in part from the side panel. The strap handle extends across the top panel and is joined at an end portion thereof to the side panel for movement between a stowed position, where an intermediate portion of the strap handle is disposed in a plane of the top panel, and a raised position, where the intermediate portion is bowed and disposed above the top panel. The end portion of the strap handle is moved into the interior of the carton when the strap handle is in the raised position. The strap handle comprises a foldable flap adapted to be pressed against one of a group of articles received, at least in part, in the interior of a set-up carton. The foldable flap folds with respect to the strap handle when the strap handle is moved from the stowed position toward the raised position such that stress in the strap handle increases gradually. The strap handle further comprises a handle flap foldably connected to the intermediate portion thereof. The handle flap is disposed next to the foldable flap and is separated therefrom by a weakened line. The weakened line defines a common end edge of each of the handle flap and the foldable flap when the strap handle is in the stowed position.
Further features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the specific embodiments illustrated in the drawings and discussed below.
Within the scope of this application, it is envisaged or intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings may be considered or taken independently or in any combination thereof.
Features or elements described in connection with, or relation to, one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments unless there is an incompatibility of features. One or more features or elements from one embodiment may be incorporated into, or combined with, any of the other embodiments disclosed herein, said features or elements extracted from said one embodiment may be included in addition to, or in replacement of one or more features or elements of said other embodiment.
A feature, or combination of features, of an embodiment disclosed herein may be extracted in isolation from other features of that embodiment. Alternatively, a feature, or combination of features, of an embodiment may be omitted from that embodiment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

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

Figure 1 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming an article carrier according to a first embodiment;
Figures 2, 3, and 4 are enlarged plan views of portions of the blank of Figure 1;
Figure 5 is a perspective view from above of an article carrier formed from the blank of Figure 1 loaded with articles to form a package;
Figure 6 is a perspective view of an internal portion of the article carrier of Figure 5 showing a pinnacle receiving or buttress structure in a first condition;
Figure 7 is a perspective view of an internal portion of the article carrier of Figure 5 showing a buttress structure in a second condition;
Figure 8 is a perspective view from below of the article carrier of Figure 5 showing the buttress structure in the second condition;
Figure 9 is a perspective view from above of an article carrier formed from the blank of Figure 1, in which articles having been removed for illustrative purposes, and showing a handle structure in a deployed condition;
Figure 10 is a perspective view from above of a pinnacle or pillar of a crate which the buttress structure of the article carrier is adapted to receive;
Figure 11A is a top view of the pinnacle of Figure 10; and
Figure 11B is a top view of an alternative pinnacle or pillar of a crate which the buttress structure of the article carrier is adapted to receive.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of a package, 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 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 capable of forming a carton or carrier 90, as shown in Figure 2. The carton or carrier 90 is configured for carrying a group of primary products such as, but not limited to, bottles, hereinafter referred to as articles B. The blank 10 forms a secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package.
In the embodiments detailed herein, the terms "carton" and "carrier" refer, for the non-limiting purpose of illustrating the various features of the invention, to a container 90 for engaging and carrying articles, such as primary product containers. It is contemplated that the teachings of the invention can be applied to various product containers, which may or may not be tapered and/or cylindrical. Other exemplary 1 include bottles (for example metallic, glass or plastics bottles), cans (for example aluminum cans), tins, pouches, packets and the like.
The blank 10 is formed from a sheet of suitable substrate. It is to be understood that, as used herein, the term "suitable substrate" includes all manner of foldable sheet material such as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, and the like. It should be 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 structure or carton 90 described herein may be formed from a sheet material such as paperboard, which may be made of or coated with materials to increase its strength. An example of such a sheet material is tear-resistant NATRALOCK^® paperboard made by WestRock Company. It should be noted that the tear resistant materials may be provided by more than one layer, to help improve the tear-resistance of the package. Typically, one surface of the sheet material may have different characteristics to the other surface. For example, the surface of the sheet material that faces outwardly from a finished package may be particularly smooth and may have a coating such as a clay coating or other surface treatment to provide good printability. The surface of the sheet material that faces inwardly may, on the other hand, be provided with a coating, a layer, a treatment or be otherwise prepared to provide properties such as one or more of tear-resistance, good glue-ability, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties.
In the illustrated embodiments, the blank 10 is configured to form a carton or carrier 90 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles B. In the illustrated embodiments, the arrangement is an m × n matrix or array, having two rows (m = 2) and two columns (n = 2); in the illustrated embodiments, two rows of two articles B, or three columns of two articles B, are provided and the articles B may be 400mL bottles. Alternatively, the blank 10 can be configured to form a carrier 90 for packaging other types, number and size of articles B and/or for packaging articles B in a different arrangement or configuration for example, but not limited to, fully enclosed cartons or wrap-around carriers, the articles B may be cups, pouches, pots or cans.
Turning to Figure 1, there is illustrated a blank 10 for forming carton 90 (see Figure 5) according to an embodiment of the disclosure. The blank 10 comprises a plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 arranged in a linear series and hinged one to the next by a respective fold line 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23, 25, 27. The plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 form a tubular structure having an interior chamber for receiving articles B. The plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 includes a first base panel 12. A first corner or bevel panel 14 is hingedly connected to the base panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 13. A first lower side panel 16 is hingedly connected to the first bevel panel 14 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 15. A first upper side panel 18 is hingedly connected to the first lower side panel 16 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 17. A top panel 20 is hingedly connected to the first upper side panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 19. A second upper side panel 22 is hingedly connected to the top panel 20 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 21. A second lower side panel 24 is hingedly connected to the second upper side panel 22 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 23. A second corner or bevel panel 26 is hingedly connected to the second lower side panel 24 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 25. A second base panel 28 is hingedly connected to the second bevel panel 26 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 27.
The first bevel panel 14 may be considered to be part of the first lower side panel 16 or part of the first base panel 12. The second bevel panel 26 may be considered to be part of the second lower side panel 24 or part of the second base panel 28. In some embodiments, the first and second bevel panels 14, 26 may be omitted, the first and second base panels 12, 28 may be hingedly connected directly to a respective one of the first and second lower side panels 16, 24.
The blank 10 comprises a plurality of end closure panels 60a, 62a, 64a, 66a, 68a, 70a, 72a, 60b, 62b, 64b, 66b, 68b, 70b, 72b for closing ends of the tubular structure of the outer shell. The plurality of end closure panels 60a, 62a, 64a, 66a, 68a, 70a, 72a, 60b, 62b, 64b, 66b, 68b, 70b, 72b comprises a first group of end closure panels 60a, 62a, 64a, 66a, 68a, 70a, 72a for closing, at least in part, a first end of the tubular structure. The plurality of end closure panels 60a, 62a, 64a, 66a, 68a, 70a, 72a, 60b, 62b, 64b, 66b, 68b, 70b, 72b comprises a second group of end closure panels 60b, 62b, 64b, 66b, 68b, 70b, 72b for closing, at least in part, a second end of the tubular structure.
A first anchor panel 60a is hingedly connected to a first end of the first upper side panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 61a.
A first top end closure panel 62a is hingedly connected to a first end of the top panel 20 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 63a.
The first anchor panel 60a is coupled to the first top end closure panel 62a by a first pair of web panels 66a, 68a. A first web panel 66a is hingedly connected to the first anchor panel 60a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 67a. A second web panel 68a is hingedly connected to the first web panel 68a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 69a. The second web panel 68a is hingedly connected to the first top end closure panel 62a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 71a.
A second anchor panel 64a is hingedly connected to a first end of the second upper side panel 22 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 65a.
The second anchor panel 64a is coupled to the first top end closure panel 62a by a second pair of web panels 70a, 72a. A third web panel 72a is hingedly connected to the second anchor panel 62a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 77a. A fourth web panel 70a is hingedly connected to the third web panel 72a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 75a. The fourth web panel 70a is hingedly connected to the first top end closure panel 62a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 73a.
The first pair of web panels 66a, 68a is separated, or spaced apart, from the first upper side panel 18 by an aperture A9. The second pair of web panels 70a, 72a is separated, or spaced apart, from the second upper side panel 22 by an aperture A9.
A third anchor panel 60b is hingedly connected to a second end of the first upper side panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 61b.
A second top end closure panel 62b is hingedly connected to a second end of the top panel 20 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 63b.
The third anchor panel 60b is coupled to the second top end closure panel 62b by a third pair of web panels 66b, 68b. A fifth web panel 66b is hingedly connected to the third anchor panel 60b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 67b. A sixth web panel 68b is hingedly connected to the fifth web panel 66b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 69b. The sixth web panel 68b is hingedly connected to the second top end closure panel 62b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 71b.
A fourth anchor panel 64b is hingedly connected to a second end of the second upper side panel 22 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 65b.
The fourth anchor panel 64b is coupled to the second top end closure panel 62b by a fourth pair of web panels 70b, 72b. A seventh web panel 72b is hingedly connected to the fourth anchor panel 64b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 77b. An eighth web panel 70b is hingedly connected to the seventh web panel 72b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 75b. The eighth web panel 70b is hingedly connected to the second top end closure panel 62b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 73b.
The third pair of web panels 66b, 68b is separated, or spaced apart, from the first upper side panel 18 by an aperture A9. The fourth pair of web panels 70b, 72b is separated, or spaced apart, from the second side panel 22 by an aperture A9.
The blank 10 comprises at least one article retention device HL (also referred to herein as a heel lock), best shown in Figures 2 and 4. The illustrated embodiment comprises a plurality of article retention devices HL, specifically, but not limited to, four article retention devices HL. The blank 10 comprises a pair of article retention devices HL struck, at least in part, from the first bevel panel 14, the article retention devices HL may be defined in part in the first base panel 12 and/or in the first lower side panel 16. The blank 10 comprises a pair of article retention devices HL struck, at least in part, from the second bevel panel 26, the article retention devices HL may be defined in part in the second base panel 28 and/or in the second lower side panel 24. Each article retention device HL comprises an article receiving opening. The article receiving opening may be defined, at least in part, by a pair of tabs 30a, 30b. In the illustrated embodiment, the article receiving opening is defined in part by a first aperture A1 struck from one of the first or second base panels 12, 28. The article receiving opening may also defined in part by a second aperture A2 struck from one of the first or second lower side panels 16, 24.
The article retention devices HL comprise a first tab 30a and a second tab 30b hinged in opposition to each other. The first and second tabs 30a, 30b are hinged to one of the first or second base panels 12, 28 by a respective hinged connection 29a, 29b. The first and second tabs 30a, 30b are hinged to one of the first or second lower side panels 16, 24 by a respective hinged connection 31a, 31b. The first and second tabs 30a, 30b are separated from a respective one of the first or second bevel panels 14, 26 by a cutline CT1, CT2.
Each of the first and second tabs 30a, 30b comprises a pair of fold lines. A first fold line extends from the fold line 13, 27 between the base panel 12, 28 and the bevel panel 14, 26 and is divergently arranged with respect thereto. A second fold line extends from the fold line 15, 25 between the bevel panel 14, 26 and the lower side panel 16, 24 and is divergently arranged with respect thereto.
The first fold line in the first tab 30a is divergently arranged with respect to the first fold line in the second tab 30b. The second fold line in the first tab 30a is divergently arranged with respect to the second fold line in the second tab 30b.
Each first tab 30a is separated, or separable, from the respective adjacent second tab 30b by a cut line or frangible line.
The blank 10 is foldable to form a package 90 as illustrated in Figure 5. The first and second base panels 12, 28 are engageable with one another in an overlapping relationship to form a composite base wall 12/28 of the carton 90. The blank 10 may comprise at least one complementary locking mechanism M/F, M2/LR for securing the second base panel 28 to the first base panel 12. The illustrated embodiment comprises three complementary locking mechanisms M/F, M2/LR; a first complementary locking mechanism M/F and a pair of second complementary locking mechanisms M2/LR. The first base panel 12 may comprise at least one first part F, LR of the complementary locking mechanisms M/F, M2/LR. The second base panel 28 may comprise at least one second part M, M2 of the complementary locking mechanisms M/F, M2/LR. In the illustrated embodiment, the first base panel 12 comprises a female tab F defining an opening in the second base panel 28 and a pair of recesses LR struck from opposed side edges of the first base panel 12. The second base panel 28 comprises a first male tab M and a pair of second male tabs M2. The opening in the first base panel 12 is configured to receive the first male tab M. Each recess LR in the first base panel 12 is configured to receive a respective one of the second male tabs M2 and comprises a waist or restriction to retain a second male tab M2 therein. The female tab F is arranged to be displaced out of the first base panel 12 to form an opening and to bear against a male tab M when received therein. In some embodiments, the complementary locking mechanism M/F may be omitted; and the first and second base panels 12, 28 may be secured to each other by other means such as but not limited to adhesive or staples. The complementary locking mechanism M/F, M2/LR illustrated and described is entirely optional.
The blank 10 comprises at least one pinnacle-receiving, buttress structure PL/PL2, the buttress structure PL/PL2 comprises a first part PL provided in the first base panel 12 and a second part PL2 provided in the second base panel 28.
The first part PL provided in the first base panel 12 comprises a first pinnacle-receiving opening defined in part by a pair of first foldable tabs or female tabs 40, 42. The first pinnacle-receiving opening is defined in part by at least one aperture A3, A4, A5. In the illustrated embodiment, the first pinnacle-receiving opening is defined in part by four apertures A3, A4, A5. The first pinnacle-receiving opening is defined in part by a pair of foldable gate tabs 44, 46. The foldable gate tabs 44, 46 extend from a free end edge of the first base panel 12 to one of the apertures A5.
Each of the first tabs 40, 42 is hingedly connected to the first base panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 41, 43. The fold lines 41, 43 of the first tabs 40, 42 are divergently arranged with respect to each other. The fold lines 41, 43 extend from the aperture A3 divergently toward the free end FE1 of the first panel 12. Each of the first tabs 40, 42 comprises a fold line 45 dividing said each first tab 40, 42 into a proximal portion hinged to the first base panel 12 and a distal portion hinged to the proximal portion by the fold line 45. The fold line 41 hinging a first one 40 of the first tabs 40, 42 to the first base panel 12 is divergently arranged with respect to the fold line 43 hinging a second one 42 of the first tabs 40, 42 to the first base panel 12. The fold lines 45 of the tabs 40, 42 are divergently arranged with respect to each other. The tab 40 is separated, or separable, from the tab 42 by a cut line or frangible line F2. Each distal portion of the first tabs 40, 42 may be frangibly connected to the first base panel 12 by a connecting portion or frangible element.
Each of the first tabs 40, 42 comprises an undercut or recess E1 defined in part by an abutment edge ES1 which when the first tabs 40, 42 are folded out of the plane of the first base panel 12 faces generally towards the first base panel 12.
Each of the gate tabs 44, 46 is hingedly connected to the first base panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 47, 49. The gate tab 44 is separated, or separable, from the gate tab 46 by a cut line or frangible line F1. The gate tab 44 is hinged to the base panel 12 in opposition to the gate tab 46.
The second part PL2 provided in the second base panel 28 comprises a second pinnacle-receiving opening defined in part by a pair of second foldable tabs or male tabs 50, 52. The second pinnacle-receiving opening is defined in part by at least one aperture A6, A7, A8. In the illustrated embodiment, the second pinnacle-receiving opening is defined in part by four apertures A6, A7, A8.
Each of the second or male tabs 50, 52 is hingedly connected to the second base panel 28 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 51, 53. Each of the second tabs 50, 52 comprises a fold line 55, 57 defining a wing or distal portion 54, 56 of said second tabs 50, 52 respectively. The fold line 51 hinging the second tab 50 to the second base panel 28 is divergently arranged with respect to the fold line 53 hinging the second tab 52 to the second base panel 28. The fold lines 55, 57 of the second tabs 50, 52 are divergently arranged with respect to each other. The second tab 50 is separated, or separable, from the second tab 52 by a cut line or frangible line F3. Each wing portion of the second tabs 50, 52 may be frangibly connected to the second base panel 28 by a connecting portion or frangible element.
Each of the wing portions 54, 56 defines part of a recess E2 which is partially defined by a supporting edge ES2. The recess E2 faces generally away from the second base panel 28 when the second tabs 50, 52 are folded out of the plane of the second base panel 28.
The blank 10 comprises a handle structure, the handle structure comprises a handle strap 18H/20H/22H the handle strap 18H/20H/22H comprising a medial portion 20H provided by a portion of the top panel 20 and a pair of opposed end portions 18H, 22H. A first end portion 18H is provided by a portion of the first upper side panel 18. A second end portion 20H is provided by a portion of the second upper side panel 20.
The handle structure comprises a first cushioning flap T3 hingedly connected to a first side of the handle strap 18H/20H/22H by a hinged connection in the form of fold line FL3. The handle structure comprises a second cushioning flap T4 hingedly connected to a second, opposing, side of the handle strap 18H/20H/22H by a hinged connection in the form of fold line FL4. The first end portion 18H is defined, at least in part, by a pair of opposed cuts C1, C2. The second end portion 20H is defined, at least in part, by a pair of opposed cuts C3, C4.
The handle structure comprises a first pair of reinforcing tabs T1, T2. A first reinforcing tab T1 is hingedly connected to a first side of the handle strap 18H/20H/22H by a hinged connection in the form of fold line FL1. A second reinforcing tab T2 is hingedly connected to a second, opposing, side of the handle strap 18H/20H/22H by a hinged connection in the form of fold line FL2. The first reinforcing tab T1 is hinged in part to the first end portion 18H and in part to the medial portion 20H. The second reinforcing tab T2 is hinged in part to the first end portion 18H and in part to the medial portion 20H.
The handle structure comprises a second pair of reinforcing tabs T5, T6. A third reinforcing tab T5 is hingedly connected to a first side of the handle strap 18H/20H/22H by a hinged connection in the form of fold line FL5. A fourth reinforcing tab T6 is hingedly connected to a second, opposing, side of the handle strap 18H/20H/22H by a hinged connection in the form of fold line FL6. The third reinforcing tab T5 is hinged in part to the first end portion 18H and in part to the medial portion 20H. The fourth reinforcing tab T6 is hinged in part to the first end portion 18H and in part to the medial portion 20H.
The first cushioning flap T3 is separated from each of the first and third reinforcing tabs T1, T5 by a respective cutline. The second cushioning flap T4 is separated from each of the second and fourth reinforcing tabs T2, T6 by a respective cutline.
The first and second cushioning flaps T3, T4 may comprise a pair of fold lines FL7, FL8, FL9, FL10, each fold line defining in part a marginal or wing portion.
Turning to the construction of the carton 90 as illustrated in Figure 5 and 9, the carton 90 can be formed by a series of sequential folding operations in a straight-line machine so that the carton 90 is not required to be rotated or inverted to complete its construction. The folding process is not limited to that described below and may be altered according to particular manufacturing requirements.
The first blank 10 is placed over a group of articles B. The first blank 10 is at least partially folded about fold line 19 and fold line 21 to fold the first and second upper side panels 18, 22 with respect to the top panel 20 the anchor panels 650a, 60b, 64a, 64b are folded into face-to-face relationship with the first and second upper side panel 18, 22 to which they are hinged. The first and second top end closure panels 62a, 62b are folded with respect to the top panel 20 as a consequence to at least partially close the ends of the carton 90.
The first lower side panel 16 is folded with respect to the first upper side panel 18, about fold line 17. The second lower side panel 24 is folded with respect to the second upper side panel 22, about fold line 23.
The tabs 30a, 30b of the article retention devices HL are inwardly. The first bevel panel 14 is at least partially folded with respect to the first lower side panel 16. The first base panel 12 is partially folded with respect to the first bevel panel 14. The second bevel panel 26 is at least partially folded with respect to the second lower side panel 24. The second base panel 28 is partially folded with respect to the second bevel panel 26.
The first base panel 12 is folded with respect to the first bevel panel 14 about the base of a group of articles B.
Lower portions or heels of the articles B engage with the article retention devices HL and are received by the tabs 30a, 30b.
The second base panel 28 is folded with respect to the second bevel panel 1626 about the base of a group of articles B. Lower portions or heels of the articles B engage with the article retention devices HL and are received by the tabs 30a, 30b. The second base panel 28 is brought into face contacting relationship with the first base panel 12.
The second base panel 28 is secured to the first base panel 12. The male tabs M, M2 of the complementary locking mechanism is folded out of the plane of the second base panel 28 and is received in the openings in the first base panel 12 provided by the second parts LR, F of the complementary locking mechanism, best shown in Figure 6 and 7.
Figure 10 shows a portion of a pillar or pinnacle P of a crate (or similar container) which the pinnacle-receiving structure PL/PL2 is adapted to receive. The pillar P comprises a central core CL which extends as a column upwards from the base of the crate (not shown). The column may have a generally square or rhombus shaped cross-section, in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 10 and 11A the column has a generally "X" shaped cross-sectional shape. The pillar P comprises a first pair of fins comprising first and second fins FN1; the first fin FN1 is diametrically opposed to the second fin FN1.
The pillar P may comprise a second pair of fins comprising third and fourth fins FN1; the third fin FN2 is diametrically opposed to the fourth fin FN2. The second pair of fins FN2 may be oriented substantially perpendicularly to the first pair of fins FN1. In this way, the first and second pair of fins FN1, FN2 define a generally cruciform section, best shown in Figure 11A.
Figures 7 and 8 show the pinnacle-receiving, buttress structure PL/PL2 in an erected condition after the carton 90 has received a pillar or pinnacle P. In Figure 7, the articles B have been removed to show the buttress structure PL/PL2, in an erected condition, from an internal viewpoint, the pinnacle P has also been withdrawn from the carton 90, or the carton 90 has been removed from a crate. In Figure 8, the buttress structure PL/PL2 is shown in an erected condition from an external viewpoint, the pinnacle P has been withdrawn from the carton 90, or the carton 90 has been removed from a crate.
Apertures A3, A6 and aperture A8 are configured to accommodate the first and second fins FN1 respectively. Aperture A4 and aperture A7 are configured to accommodate the third and fourth fins FN2 respectively. The first tabs 40, 42 and the second tabs 50, 52 fold out of the plane of respective one of the first and second base panels 12, 28 to which they are hinged, in doing so vertically registered openings are created in the first and second panels 12, 28 which can accommodate at least in part the column CL of the pinnacle P.
In the assembled package 90 shown in Figure 5, the first and second panels 12, 28 are in an overlapping arrangement, as shown in Figures 6 and 9 in which the panels 12, 28 have been fixed in a predetermined position with respect to each other. In such a fixed position, the first and second tabs 40, 42; 50, 52 are vertically aligned with each other to be ready for activation by a pinnacle P for mutual locking engagement. The panels 12, 28 are fixed in the position due to the locking mechanism M/F, M2/LR which has been activated earlier when a group of articles B was wrapped around by the blank 10 to provide the assembled package 90. The pinnacle P, when inserted into the registered openings in the panels 12, 28, folds both the pairs of first and second tabs 40, 42; 50, 52 into the associated carton. More particularly, the pinnacle P first presses on and thus folds the second (or male) tabs 50, 52 upwards into the interior of the tubular carton 90, which in turn fold the first (or female) tabs 40, 42 into the carton 90. This folding movement creates the openings in the first and second panel 12, 28, respectively, which are in a vertical registration with each other. In the course of the folding of the tabs 40, 42; 50, 52, the second tabs 50, 52 are received in the locking opening defined in the first panel 12 by the first tabs 40, 42. The wing portions 54, 56 of the second tabs 50, 52 are pressed against the first tabs 40, 42 and may thereby be folded with respect to the respective main bodies of the second tabs 50, 52 so as to clear the first tabs 40, 42. As clearing the first tabs 40, 42, the wing portions 54, 56 may be unfolded back to be substantially planar with the respective main bodies of the second tabs 50, 52 such that the wing portions 54, 54 are received at least partially in the recesses E1 of the first tabs 40, 42. The recesses E1 each defines an supporting edge ES1 provided by the proximal portion of the respective first tab 40, 42. The second tabs 50, 52 lean against the supporting edges ES1of the first tabs 40, 42 when the wing portions 54, 56 are received in the recesses E1 of the first tabs 40, 42. At the same time as the wing portions 54, 56 are received in the recesses E1, the distal portions of the first tabs 40, 42 are received at least in part in the recesses E2 of the second tabs 50, 52. The recess E2 each defines an supporting edge ES2 provided by the main body of the respective second tab 50, 52. The first tabs 40, 42 lean against the supporting edges ES2 of the second tabs 50, 52 when the distal portions of the first tabs 40, 42 are received in the recesses E2 of the second tabs 50, 52. Stated differently, the supporting edge ES1 of each of the first tabs 40, 42 is in abutment on the respective one of the second tabs 50, 52 while the supporting edge ES2 of each of the second tabs 50, 52 is in abutment on the respective one of the first tabs 40, 42. As a result, the first and second tabs 40, 42, 50, 52 are held in a folded condition where they together form the pinnacle-receiving, buttress structure. Once the abutment structure is erected, the first tabs 40, 42 provide stoppers for preventing, or inhibiting, the second tabs 50, 52 respectively from unfolding and returning to a planar arrangement with the second base panel 28 while the second tabs 50, 52 provide stoppers for preventing, or inhibiting, the first tabs 40, 42 respectively from moving towards a planar arrangement with the first base panel 12.
As a result of inserting a pinnacle P through the openings in the panels 12, 28, the distal portions of the first tabs 40, 42 may be forced upwards by either or both of the pinnacle and the second tabs 50, 52, which may results in folding of the distal portions with respect to the respective proximal portions of the first tabs 40, 42. The distal portions of the first tabs 40, 42 may unfold with respect to their proximal portions, to return to a substantially coplanar relationship with the proximal portions, once the second tabs 50, 52 have cleared the first tabs 40, 42, respectively. In an alternative situation where the pinnacle P has a second pair of fins FN2, FN2 (Figure 11A), the first tabs 40, 42 may be partitioned apart from the second tabs 50, 52 by those fins FN2, FN2, and may thereby be prevented from engaging each other while the pinnacle P remains received in the registered openings in the first and second panels 12, 28. In such a situation, however, the first and second tabs 40, 42; 50, 52 swing toward each other after the pinnacle P is removed so that the first tabs 40, 42 and the second tabs 50, 52 lean against each other to provide the abutment structure as shown in Figures 7 and 8.
The gate tabs 44, 46 fold with respect to the first base panel 12 when the pinnacle P is inserted. The gate tabs 44, 46, when folded, fully open the opening A8 which allows one of the first fins FN1 to pass through the first base panel 12. Those gate tabs 44, 46 may remain unfolded and be kept disposed in the plane of the first base panel 12 when a pinnacle of a different shape is inserted into the registered openings. An example of such an alternative pinnacle is shown in Figure 11B at "P'", wherein the pinnacle P' comprises a central core CL which extends as a column upwards from the base of a crate and having a generally square cross-section. Otherwise, the pinnacle P' has no fins extending radially outwards from the core CL.
The first and second tabs 40, 42, 50, 52 remain in an erected condition when the pinnacle P is withdrawn from the interior of the carton 90, that is to say when the carton 90 is removed from a crate.
The present disclosure provides a carton 90 and carton blank 10 comprising a plurality of panels which includes a pair of panels 12, 28 and a locking device for securing a first one of the pair of panels 12, 28 in a face-contacting arrangement with a second one of the pair of panels 12, 28. The locking device comprises a pair of first engaging elements 40, 42; 50, 52 provided by one of the pair of panels 12, 28 for engaging with one or more second engaging elements 50, 52; 40, 42 provided by the other one of the pair of panels 12, 28. The first engaging elements 40, 42; 50, 52 are detachably interconnected along a frangible line F2, F3.
The frangible line F2, F3 may be disposed perpendicularly to an adjacent free end edge FE1, FE2 of the one of the pair of panels 12, 28.
At least one of the elements 40, 42, 50, 52 may be detachably connected to the one of the pair of panels 12, 28.
The at least one of the elements 40, 42, 50, 52 may be detachably connected at its distal end to the one of the pair of panels 12, 28.
The at least one of the elements 40, 42, 50, 52 may be a male tab 50, 52, wherein the male tab 50, 52 comprises a distal or wing portion 54, 56 hingedly connected to the remainder of the male tab 50, 52, and wherein the distal end may be provided by the distal or wing portion 54, 56 of the male tab 50, 52.
The distal or wing portion 54, 56 may be connected to the remainder of the male tab 50, 52 by a distal portion fold line 55, 57, and wherein the distal portion fold line 55, 57 may be disposed in generally the same orientation as a tab fold line 41, 43 by which an associated one of the one or more second engaging elements or female tabs 40, 42 is connected to the other one of the pair of panels 12, 28.
The present disclosure also provides a carton 90 (and carton blank 10 for forming the carton 90) comprising a plurality of panels which comprises a pair of first and second overlapping panels 12, 28. The carton 90 comprises a buttress structure for securing the first and second panels 12, 28 in an overlapping arrangement. The buttress structure comprises a pair of first tabs 40, 42 and a pair of second tabs 50, 52 each in engagement with one of the first tabs 40, 42. The first tabs 40, 42 are foldably connected to the first panel 12 by a pair of first divergent fold lines 41, 43 respectively. The first tabs 40, 42 are folded with respect to the first panel 12 so as to define, at least in part, a single locking opening LO (see Figure 8) in the first panel 12. The second tabs 50, 52 are foldably connected to the second panel 28 by a pair of second divergent fold lines 51, 53. The second tabs 50, 52 are folded with respect to the second panel 28 and received in the locking opening LO such that the second tabs 50, 52 are brought into engagement with the first tabs 40, 42 respectively. The first tabs 40, 42 are spaced apart from each other to define therebetween at least part of a void or chamber for receiving an activation tool (for example, but not limited to, a crate post/pinnacle or a machine element of a packaging machine) inserted through the locking opening LO.
The first divergent fold lines 41, 43 are spaced apart from each other by the locking opening LO.
The second tabs 50, 52 are spaced apart from each other to further define said void or chamber.
The locking opening LO includes at least one extension A3, A8, A4, A7 for receiving a portion of the activation tool, the at least one extension A3, A8, A4, A7 comprises at least one slot A3, A8 extending outwardly from the remainder of the locking opening LO.
The at least one slot A3, A8 extends from a first point away from the first tabs 40, 42, the first point being defined by an intersection of notional extensions of the first divergent fold lines 41, 43.
The first divergent fold lines 41, 43 divergently extend toward a free end FE1 of the first panel 12.
The first panel 12 is hingedly connected one of the plurality of panels 14 by a third fold line 13 which defines an end of the first panel 12 opposite the free end FE1 of the first panel 12.
The at least one slot A3, A8 extends away from a free end FE1 of the first panel 12.
The first divergent fold lines 41, 43 divergently extend toward the free end FE1 of the first panel 12.
The present disclosure provides a carton 90 and carton blank 10 comprising a plurality of panels for defining an interior of the carton 90. The plurality of panels comprises a first panel 12, a second panel 28, and a locking device for securing the first and second panels 12, 28 in an overlapping arrangement. The locking device comprising a pair of first tabs 40, 42 foldably connected to the first panel 12 by a pair of first divergent fold lines 41, 43 respectively, the first tabs 40, 42 defining at least in part a single locking opening LO in the first panel 12 when folded out of a plane of the first panel 12, the locking device further comprising second tabs 50, 52 foldably connected to the second panel 28 by a pair of second divergent fold lines 51, 53 respectively, the second tabs 50, 52 being foldable to be received in the locking opening LO such that the second tabs 50, 52 are brought into engagement with the first tabs 40, 42 respectively, wherein the first divergent fold lines 41, 43 are spaced apart from each other by the locking opening LO.
The first panel 12 is formed with a scrap-out area or aperture A3 preformed therein, the scrap-out area or aperture A3 is interposed between the first divergent fold lines 41, 43 to space the first divergent fold lines 41, 43 apart from each other, the scrap-out area or aperture A3 being part of the locking opening LO when the first tabs 40, 42 are folded out of the plane of the first panel 12.
The first tabs 40, 42 are detachably interconnected along a frangible line F2.
At least one of the first tabs 40, 42 is detachably connected to the first panel 12.
The present disclosure also provides a carton 90 for packaging a plurality of articles. The carton 90 comprises a plurality of panels which comprises a pair of first and second overlapping panels 12, 28. The carton also comprises a buttress structure (shown, for example, in Figures 7 and 8) for securing the first and second panels 12, 28 in an overlapping arrangement. The buttress structure comprises a pair of first tabs 40, 42 and a pair of second tabs 50, 52 in engagement respectively with the first tabs 40, 42. The first tabs 40, 42 are foldably connected to the first panel 12, and are folded with respect to the first panel 12 so as to define, at least in part, a single locking opening LO in the first panel 12. The second tabs 50, 52 are foldably connected to the second panel 28. The second panels 50, 52 are folded with respect to the second panel 28, and are received in the locking opening LO to form the buttress structure. In the buttress structure, a first one of the second tabs 50, 52 and a first one of the first tabs 40, 42 each serves as a buttress against the other, and a second one of the second tabs 50, 52 and a second one of the first tabs 40, 42 each serves as a buttress against the other.
The first one of the second tabs 50, 52 and the first one of the first tabs 40, 42 each may comprise a supporting edge which is in abutment on the other of the first one of the second tabs 50, 52 and the first one of the first tabs 40, 42 while the second one of the second tabs and the second one of the first tabs each may comprise a supporting edge which is in abutment on the other of the second one of the second tabs and the second one of the first tabs.
The supporting edge of each of the first one of the second tabs and the first one of the first tabs may define in part a recess in the respective one of the first one of the second tabs and the first one of the first tabs.
The supporting edge of each of the second one of the second tabs and the second one of the first tabs may define in part a recess in the respective one of the second one of the second tabs and the second one of the first tabs.
The first tabs may be foldably connected to the first panel by a pair of first divergent fold lines, respectively.
The second tabs may be foldably connected to the second panel by a pair of second divergent fold lines respectively.
The present disclosure also provides a carton 90 (and carton blank 10 for forming the carton 90) comprising a plurality of panels for defining an interior of the carton 90. The plurality of panels comprises a top panel 20, a side panel 18, 22 foldably connected to the top panel 20. The carton 90 comprises a strap handle 18H/20H/22H formed in part from the top panel 20 and in part from the side panel 18, 22. The strap handle 18H/20H/22H extends across the top panel 20 and is joined at an end portion 18H, 22H thereof to the side panel 18, 22 for movement between a stowed position, where an intermediate portion 20H of the strap handle 18H/20H/22H is disposed in a plane of the top panel 20, and a raised position, where the intermediate portion 20H is bowed and disposed above the top panel 20. The end portion 18H, 22H of the strap handle 18H/20H/22H is moved into the interior of the carton 90 when the strap handle 18H/20H/22H is in the raised position. The strap handle 18H/20H/22H comprises a foldable flap T1, T2, T5, T6 adapted to be pressed against one of a group of articles B received, at least in part, in the interior of the carton 90. The foldable flap T1, T2, T5, T6 folds with respect to the strap handle 18H/20H/22H when the strap handle 18H/20H/22H is moved from the stowed position toward the raised position such that stress in the strap handle 18H/20H/22H increases gradually. The foldable flap T1, T2, T5, T6 is detachably connected initially to the top panel 20.
The foldable flap T1, T2, T5, T6 comprises a first portion formed from the top panel 20 and a second portion formed from the side panel 18, 22. The first portion is detachably connected to the top panel 20 along a severance line SV1, SV2, SV5, SV6 which is disposed above an upper end of the one of the articles when the strap handle 18H/20H/22H is in the stowed position.
The present disclosure also provides a carton 90 (and carton blank 10 for forming the carton 90) comprising a plurality of panels for defining an interior of the carton 90. The plurality of panels comprises a top panel 20 and a side panel 18, 22 foldably connected to the top panel 20. The carton 90 comprises a strap handle 18H/20H/22H formed in part from the top panel 20 and in part from the side panel 18, 22. The strap handle 18H/20H/22H extends across the top panel 20 and is joined at an end portion 18H, 22H thereof to the side panel 18, 22 for movement between a stowed position where an intermediate portion 20H of the strap handle 18H/20H/22H is disposed in a plane of the top panel 20 and a raised position where the intermediate portion 20H is bowed and disposed above the top panel 20. The end portion (62) of the strap handle 18H/20H/22H is moved into the interior of the carton 90when the strap handle 18H/20H/22H is in the raised position. The strap handle 18H/20H/22H comprises a foldable flap T1, T2, T5, T6 adapted to be pressed against one of articles B received, at least in part, in the interior of the carton 90 The foldable flap T1, T2, T5, T6 folds with respect to the strap handle 18H/20H/22H when the strap handle 18H/20H/22H is moved from the stowed position toward the raised position such that stress in the strap handle 18H/20H/22H increases gradually. The strap handle 18H/20H/22H further comprises a handle flap T3, T4 foldably connected to the intermediate portion 20H thereof. The handle flap T3, T4 is disposed next to the foldable flap T1, T2, T5, T6 and is separated therefrom by a weakened line W1, W2, W5, W6 (for example, but not limited to, a cut, a perforation, a half cut). The weakened line W1, W2, W5, W6 defines a common end edge of each of the handle flap T3, T4 and the foldable flap T1, T2, T5, T6 when the strap handle 18H/20H/22H is in the stowed position.
It can be appreciated that various changes may be made within the scope of the present invention. For example, the size and shape of the panels and apertures may be adjusted to accommodate articles of differing size or shape.
It will be recognized that as used herein, directional references such as "top", "bottom", "base", "front", "back", "end", "side", "inner", "outer", "upper" and "lower" do not necessarily limit the respective panels to such orientation but may merely serve to distinguish these panels from one another.
As used herein, the terms "hinged connection" and "fold line" refer to all manner of lines that define hinge features of the blank, facilitate folding portions of the blank with respect to one another, or otherwise indicate optimal panel folding locations for the blank. Any reference to "hinged connection" should not be construed as necessarily referring to a single fold line only; indeed, a hinged connection can be formed from two or more fold lines wherein each of the two or more fold lines may be either straight/linear or curved/curvilinear in shape. When linear fold lines form a hinged connection, they may be disposed parallel with each other or be slightly angled with respect to each other. When curvilinear fold lines form a hinged connection, they may intersect each other to define a shaped panel within the area surrounded by the curvilinear fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may comprise a pair of arched or arcuate fold lines intersecting at two points such that they define an elliptical panel therebetween. A hinged connection may be formed from one or more linear fold lines and one or more curvilinear fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may comprise a combination of a linear fold line and an arched or arcuate fold line which intersect at two points such that they define a half-moon shaped panel therebetween.
As used herein, the term "fold line" may refer to one of the following: a scored line, an embossed line, a debossed line, a line of perforations, a line of short slits, a line of half-cuts, a single 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, any combination thereof, and the like. The elements can be dimensioned and arranged to provide the desired functionality. For example, a line of perforations can be dimensioned or designed with degrees of weakness to define a fold line or a severance line or both. The line of perforations can be designed to facilitate folding and resist breaking, to facilitate folding and facilitate breaking with more effort, or to facilitate breaking with little effort.
The phrases "in registry with" and "in vertical 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" or "in vertical 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. The aperture in the first panel when "in vertical registry with" the second aperture in the second panel may be disposed above or over the second aperture when the carton or carrier is in a normal or resting condition (or as shown in the illustrated embodiment), but it will be understood the carton or carrier is not limited to such an orientation.

Claims

A blank for forming a carton, the blank comprising a plurality of panels which includes a pair of panels and a locking device for securing the pair of panels in a face-contacting arrangement with each other, the locking device comprising a pair of first engaging elements provided by one of the pair of panels for engaging with one or more second engaging elements provided by the other one of the pair of panels, wherein the first engaging elements comprise a pair of tabs which are detachably interconnected along a frangible line.
A blank according to claim 1, wherein the frangible line is disposed perpendicularly to an adjacent free end edge of the one of the pair of panels.
A blank according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the tabs is detachably connected to the one of the pair of panels.
A blank according to claim 3, wherein the at least one of the tabs is detachably connected at its distal end to the one of the pair of panels.
A blank according to claim 3, wherein the at least one of the tabs is a male tab, wherein the male tab comprises a distal portion hingedly connected to the remainder of the male tab, and wherein the distal end is provided by the distal portion of the male tab.
A blank according to claim 5, wherein the distal portion is connected to the remainder of the male tab by a distal portion fold line, and wherein the distal portion fold line is disposed in generally the same orientation as a tab fold line by which an associated one of the one or more second engaging elements is connected to the other one of the pair of panels.
A carton for packaging a plurality of articles, the carton comprising a plurality of panels which comprises a pair of first and second overlapping panels, the carton comprising a buttress structure for securing the first and second panels in an overlapping arrangement, the buttress structure comprising a pair of first tabs and a pair of second tabs each in engagement with one of the first tabs, wherein the first tabs are foldably connected to the first panel by a pair of first divergent fold lines respectively, the first tabs are folded with respect to the first panel so as to define, at least in part, a single locking opening in the first panel, the second tabs are foldably connected to the second panel by a pair of second divergent fold lines, the second tabs are folded with respect to the second panel and received in the locking opening such that the second tabs are brought into engagement with the first tabs respectively, the first tabs are spaced apart from each other to define therebetween at least part of a chamber for receiving an activation tool inserted through the locking opening.
A blank for forming a carton, the blank comprising a plurality of panels for defining an interior of the carton, the plurality of panels comprising a first panel and a second panel, the blank further comprising a locking device for securing the first and second panels in an overlapping arrangement, the locking device comprising a pair of first tabs foldably connected to the first panel by a pair of first divergent fold lines respectively, wherein the first tabs define, at least in part, a single locking opening in the first panel when folded out of a plane of the first panel, the locking device further comprises second tabs foldably connected to the second panel by a pair of second divergent fold lines respectively, the second tabs are foldable to be received in the locking opening such that the second tabs are brought into engagement with the first tabs respectively, wherein the first divergent fold lines are spaced apart from each other by the locking opening.
A blank according to claim 16, wherein the first panel is formed with a scrap-out area, in the form of an aperture, preformed therein, the scrap-out area is interposed between the first divergent fold lines to space the first divergent fold lines apart from each other, the scrap-out area being part of the locking opening when the first tabs are folded out of the plane of the first panel.
A blank according to claim 16, wherein the first tabs are detachably interconnected along a frangible line.
A blank according to claim 16, wherein at least one of the first tabs is detachably connected to the first panel.
A carton for packaging a plurality of articles, the carton comprising a plurality of panels which comprises a pair of first and second overlapping panels, the carton comprising a buttress structure for securing the first and second panels in an overlapping arrangement, the buttress structure comprising a pair of first tabs and a pair of second tabs in engagement respectively with the first tabs, wherein the first tabs are foldably connected to the first panel, the first tabs are folded with respect to the first panel so as to define, at least in part, a single locking opening in the first panel, the second tabs are foldably connected to the second panel, the second tabs are folded with respect to the second panel and received in the locking opening to form said buttress structure in which a first one of the second tabs and a first one of the first tabs each serves as a buttress against the other, and a second one of the second tabs and a second one of the first tabs each serves as a buttress against the other.
A carton for packaging a plurality of articles, the carton comprising a plurality of panels which includes a pair of panels and a locking device for securing the pair of panels in a face-contacting arrangement with each other, the locking device comprising a pair of first engaging elements provided by one of the pair of panels for engaging with one or more second engaging elements provided by the other one of the pair of panels, wherein the first engaging elements comprise a pair of tabs which are detachably interconnected along a frangible line.
A blank for forming a carton, the blank comprising a plurality of panels which comprises a pair of first and second overlapping panels, the blank comprising a buttress structure for securing the first and second panels in an overlapping arrangement, the buttress structure comprising a pair of first tabs and a pair of second tabs each in engagement with one of the first tabs, wherein the first tabs are foldably connected to the first panel by a pair of first divergent fold lines respectively, the first tabs are foldable with respect to the first panel so as to define, at least in part, a single locking opening in the first panel, the second tabs are foldably connected to the second panel by a pair of second divergent fold lines, the second tabs are foldable with respect to the second panel and received in the locking opening such that the second tabs are brought into engagement with the first tabs respectively, the first tabs are spaced apart from each other in a setup carton to define therebetween at least part of a chamber for receiving an activation tool inserted through the locking opening.
A carton for packaging a plurality of articles, the carton comprising a plurality of panels for defining an interior of the carton, the plurality of panels comprising a first panel and a second panel, the carton further comprising a locking device for securing the first and second panels in an overlapping arrangement, the locking device comprising a pair of first tabs foldably connected to the first panel by a pair of first divergent fold lines respectively, wherein the first tabs define, at least in part, a single locking opening in the first panel when folded out of a plane of the first panel, the locking device further comprises second tabs foldably connected to the second panel by a pair of second divergent fold lines respectively, the second tabs are foldable to be received in the locking opening such that the second tabs are brought into engagement with the first tabs respectively, wherein the first divergent fold lines are spaced apart from each other by the locking opening.