JP7491841B2 - Cartons and blanks therefor - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to cartons and blanks for forming the same. More specifically (but not exclusively), the present invention relates to wraparound carriers having devices for reducing damage to the cartons.

In the packaging art, it is known to provide cartons for carrying a plurality of articles. Cartons are well known in the art and serve to transport, store, and provide access to a group of articles for consumption by a consumer. Due to cost and environmental considerations, such cartons or carriers should be formed from as little material as possible and should result in as little waste of the material from which they are formed as possible. Further considerations include the strength of the carton and its suitability for holding and transporting heavy articles. It is desirable for the contents of the carton to be secured within the carton.

It is desirable to produce cartons that are strong and durable enough to withstand the rigors of the shipping environment.

The present invention aims to provide an improvement in the field of cartons, which are typically made from paperboard or the like.

A first aspect of the present invention provides a carton for packaging one or more articles. The carton comprises a plurality of panels defining an interior for receiving at least one article. The panels include a top panel, a pair of side panels, and a bottom panel. At least one of the side panels has an opening for receiving a bottom portion of the at least one article. The carton further comprises a buffer device including at least two cutting elements disposed near or along a hinge connection between the top panel and at least one of the side panels. Each of the at least two cutting elements is separate from a line element that forms the hinge connection between the top panel and one of the side panels. The at least two cutting elements are disposed adjacent to one another such that a bridge portion is disposed between the at least two cutting elements. The bridge portion is disposed above the opening such that the bridge portion and the opening are disposed generally along a common notional line extending perpendicular to the hinge connection.

Optionally, each of the at least two cutting elements is formed from a score line.

Optionally, at least a first portion of the cut line of the first cutting element is aligned in line with at least a first portion of the cut line of the second cutting element.

Optionally, the first portion of the score line of the first cutting element and the first portion of the score line of the second cutting element are aligned in line with a hinge connection between the top panel and one of the side panels.

Optionally, the second portion of the score line of the first cutting element is divergently disposed relative to the first portion of the first cutting element.

Optionally, the second portion of the score line of the second cutting element is divergently oriented relative to the first portion of the second cutting element.

Optionally, the cut line is substantially L-shaped.

Optionally, at least a portion of the score line of the first cutting element and at least a portion of the score line of the second cutting element are disposed transversely to the hinge connection between the top panel and one of the side panels.

Optionally, at least a portion of the score line of the first cutting element and at least a portion of the score line of the second cutting element are oriented to diverge relative to the hinge connection between the top panel and one of the side panels.

Optionally, the first cut line and the portion of the second cut line are provided on at least one of the top panel and one of the side panels.

Optionally, each of the at least two cutting elements interrupts a hinge connection between the top panel and one of the side panels.

Optionally, the carton includes a handle on the top panel.

A second 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 panels include a top panel, a pair of side panels, and a bottom panel. At least one of the side panels has an opening for receiving a bottom portion of at least one article. The blank further comprises a buffer device including at least two cutting elements disposed near or along a hinge connection between the top panel and at least one of the side panels. Each of the at least two cutting elements is separate from a line element that forms the hinge connection between the top panel and one of the side panels. The at least two cutting elements are disposed adjacent to one another such that a bridge portion is disposed between the at least two cutting elements. The bridge portion and the opening are disposed generally along a common notional line extending perpendicular to the hinge connection.

It is contemplated that within the scope of this application, the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternatives described in the preceding paragraphs, claims and/or the following description and drawings may be taken independently or in any combination thereof. For example, a feature described in relation to one embodiment is applicable to all embodiments unless there is an incompatibility of the features.

An embodiment of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

FIG. 1 is a top plan view of a blank for forming a carton according to a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a top perspective view of a carton formed from the blank of FIG. FIG. 3 is a top plan view of a blank for forming a carton according to a second embodiment. FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of a carton formed from the blank of FIG.

Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of packages, blanks, and cartons are disclosed. It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of ways in which certain aspects of the invention may be practiced, and do not represent an exhaustive list of all ways in which the invention may be practiced. As used herein, the term "exemplary" is used broadly to refer to embodiments that serve as examples, specimens, models, or patterns. Indeed, it will be understood that the packages, blanks, and cartons described herein may be embodied in a variety of alternative forms. The drawings are not necessarily to scale, and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components. In order to avoid obscuring the disclosure, well-known components, materials, or methods have not necessarily been described in great detail. Specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be construed as limitations, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to use the invention in various ways.

Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown a plan view of a blank 10 from which a carton or carrier 90, as shown in FIG. 2, can be formed for containing and carrying a group of primary products, such as, but not limited to, beverage cans, hereinafter referred to as Item B. The blank 10 forms a secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package.

Figure 3 shows a plan view of a blank 110 from which a carton or carrier 190, as shown in Figure 4, can be formed for containing and carrying a group of primary products, such as, but not limited to, beverage cans, hereafter referred to as Item B. The blank 110 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 to containers 90, 190 for engaging and carrying articles B, such as primary product containers B, for non-limiting purposes of illustrating various features of the present invention. It is believed that the teachings of the present invention are applicable to a variety of product containers B, which may or may not be tapered and/or cylindrical. Other exemplary containers include bottles (e.g., metal, glass or plastic bottles), cans (e.g., aluminum cans), tin cans, cups, pots, pouches, packets, and the like.

The blanks 10, 110 are formed from a sheet of suitable substrate. As used herein, the term "suitable substrate" should be understood to include any type of foldable sheet material, such as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, and the like. It should be appreciated that one or other number of blanks may be used, as appropriate, for example, to provide a carrier structure, as described in more detail below.

The packaging structures, or cartons 90, 190 described herein may be formed from sheet materials, such as paperboard, which may be made or coated with materials to enhance its strength. An example of such a sheet material is tear-resistant NATRALOCK® paperboard manufactured by WestRock Company. It should be noted that the tear-resistant material may be provided in multiple layers to help improve the tear resistance of the package. Typically, one surface of the sheet material may have different properties than the other surface. For example, the surface of the sheet material that faces the outside of the finished package may be particularly smooth or may have a coating, such as a clay coating, or other surface treatment to provide good printability, while the surface of the sheet material that faces the inside may have a coating, layer, treatment, or may otherwise be prepared to provide tear resistance, good adhesion, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties.

In the illustrated embodiment, the blanks 10, 110 are configured to form carriers 90, 190 for packaging exemplary items B in an exemplary arrangement. The arrangement in the illustrated embodiment is an m×n matrix or array having two rows (m=2) and three columns (n=3), and in the illustrated embodiment, two columns of three items B are provided, and the items B are 500 ml beverage cans. Alternatively, the blanks 10, 110 can be configured to form carriers for packaging other types, numbers and sizes of items B, and/or for packaging items B, which may be bottles or cans, in a different arrangement or configuration, such as, but not limited to, a fully enclosed carton or basket carrier.

Returning to FIG. 1, a blank 10 for forming a carton 90 (see FIG. 2) according to a first embodiment is illustrated. The blank 10 includes a plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 for forming a tubular structure. The plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 includes a first base panel 12, a first corner panel 14, a first side panel 16, a top panel 18, a second side panel 20, a second corner panel 22, and a second base panel 24. The plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 may be arranged in a linear series, hinged one after the other by corresponding fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23.

In alternative embodiments, the first and second corner panels 14, 22 may be omitted and the fold lines 15, 21 may be omitted.

The first and second corner panels 14, 22 may be considered to form the lower portion of the first or second side panel 16, 20, respectively, or may be considered to form the lower portion of the first or second base panel 12, 24, respectively, to which they are hingedly connected.

The blank 10 is foldable to form the package 90 illustrated in FIG. 2. The first and second base panels 12, 24 are engageable with one another in an overlapping relationship to form the composite base wall 12/24 of the carton 90. The blank 10 may include a complementary locking mechanism that secures the second base panel 24 to the first base panel 12. The second base panel 24 may include at least one first portion F of the complementary locking mechanism. The first base panel 12 may include at least one second portion M of the complementary locking mechanism. In the illustrated embodiment, the second base panel 24 includes a plurality of female tabs F that define an opening in the second base panel 24. The first base panel 12 includes a plurality of male tabs M, the opening in the second base panel 24 configured to receive a respective one of the male tabs M. The female tabs F are disengaged from the second base panel 24 to form an opening and are positioned to abut the male tabs M when received therein. In some embodiments, the complementary locking mechanism M/F may be omitted and the first and second base panels 12, 24 may be secured to one another by other means, such as, but not limited to, adhesives or staples.

Optionally, the first and second base panels 12, 24 may include at least one first opening A1. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second base panels 12, 24 each include two first openings A1. Optionally, the first and second base panels 12, 24 may include at least one second opening A2. In the illustrated embodiment, the first and second base panels 12, 24 each include one second opening A2. The first and second openings A1, A2 may be used to facilitate assembly of the carton 90. A component of a packaging machine may engage the first and second openings A1, A2 to allow the plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 to wrap and tighten the group of articles B. The first and second openings A1, A2 may also be used to facilitate alignment of the first and second base panels 12, 24 with respect to one another or to align a first portion of a complementary locking mechanism with a second portion of a complementary locking mechanism. The complementary locking mechanisms shown and described are entirely optional.

The blank 10 may include at least one heel engagement structure N for engaging a heel or lower portion of the article B. The blank 10 illustrated in FIG. 1 includes six heel engagement structures N, one for engaging a respective article B. Each heel engagement structure N is substantially similar in structure and will be described with reference to the heel engagement structure N provided on the first side panel 16.

The heel engagement structure N may include an opening defined in part by a heel opening A3 and in part by a heel tab 42. The heel tab 42 is hingedly connected to the first base panel by a fold line 43. The heel tab 42 is stamped out from the first corner panel 14.

The fold line 43 interrupts the fold line 13 that hinges the first base panel 12 to the first corner panel 14. The fold line 43 may be non-linear; in the illustrated embodiment, the fold line 43 is curved or arcuate, and in other embodiments, the fold line 43 may be formed from at least two straight fold lines that are divergently arranged relative to one another and are continuous with one another.

The heel tab 42 may have a pair of fold lines 45a, 45b arranged to diverge, and the fold lines 45a, 45b may define a foldable corner portion of the heel tab 42.

The top panel 18 may include an optional handle structure H. The handle structure H includes a pair of bendable finger tabs 52. The finger tabs 52 are spaced apart from one another. The finger tabs 52 are hinged to the top panel 18 by fold lines 53 and are partially defined by score or cut lines 55. A first one of the finger tabs 52 is hinged to the top panel 18 opposite a second one of the finger tabs 52.

The top panel 18 may include an optional removable portion D in the form of a tear strip. The removable portion D is defined by a first tear or cut line 62a and a second tear or cut line 62b. The first and second cut lines 62a, 62b extend generally longitudinally across the top panel 18. The second cut line 62b is spaced laterally from the first cut line 62a. A tear-initiation device in the form of a pull tab 60a, 60b may be provided at each end of the tear strip. The pull tabs 60a, 60b are hinged to the tear strip by respective fold lines 61a, 61b and may be defined in part by a weakened line that is more easily torn than the first and second cut lines 62a, 62b, i.e., the weakened line exhibits less tear resistance than the first and second cut lines 62a, 62b.

The removable portion D may facilitate access to the contents of the carton 90, items B, when the carton 90 is removed.

Each of the top panel 18, side panels 16, 20, and base panels 12, 24 may have a pair of cutouts or recesses formed therein. The cutouts are defined on opposite edges of the blank 10. The cutouts include complete or major cutouts 70, 70a, 70c and partial or minor cutout 70b.

A first cutout 70 is defined near the middle of the top panel 18 along each of its opposite edges. A second cutout 70a is defined at each end edge of the first side panel 16. A third cutout 70c is defined at each end edge of the second side panel 20.

A partial or minor cutout 70b is defined in each of the opposing edges of each of the first and second base panels 12, 24.

As a result, the blank 10 has four tabs 72, 72a, 72b, 72c that are located between adjacent cutouts 70, 70a, 70b, 70c along each longitudinal edge of the blank.

As shown in FIG. 1, the first upper tab 72 is defined by the first and third cutouts 70, 70c arranged side by side. The second upper tab 72a is defined by the first and second cutouts 70, 70a. The first lower tab 72b is defined by the second cutout 70a and by the first cutout of the partial cutout 70b defined in the first base panel 12. The second lower tab 72c is defined by the third cutout 70c and by the second cutout of the partial cutout 70b defined in the second base panel 24.

The first upper tab 72 is positioned across adjacent fold lines 19. The second upper tab 72a is positioned across adjacent fold lines 17.

The first lower tab 72b is positioned across adjacent fold lines 13, 15. The second lower tab 72c is positioned across adjacent fold lines 21, 23.

The complete or main cutout portion 70, 70a, 70c can accommodate an appropriately sized tab from adjacently positioned similar or analogous blank tabs 72, 72a, 72c.

Each partial or minor cutout 70b cooperates with a partial or minor cutout 70b of a subsequent or preceding second blank (not shown) placed end-to-end in the blank 10 shown in FIG. 1 to provide a void or cutout that can accommodate an appropriately sized tab 72, 72a, 72b, 72c of an adjacent third blank (not shown) that is placed side-by-side with the blank 10 of FIG. 1 (optionally, at least a portion of the longitudinal edge of the blank 10 may be shared or common with at least a portion of the longitudinal edge of the third blank). A first partial cutout 70b from the first blank 10 and a second partial cutout 70b from the second blank are necessary to accommodate a single tab 72, 72a, 72b, 72c of the third blank. In this manner, the two partial cutouts 70b may be considered to form a complete cutout.

Each of the first and second top tabs 72, 72a forms or helps form an end retention structure to prevent the contents of the carton 90 from becoming detached from the carton 90 when the blank 10 is assembled into the carton 90. Each of the first and second top tabs 72, 72a is provided with score lines and fold lines to form an upper engagement structure when folded along the fold lines.

More specifically, each top tab 72, 72a includes an anchor portion 26a, 26b, 36a, 36b hinged to the adjacent side panel 16, 20 along a fold line 25a, 35b, 39a, 39b. Each top tab 72, 72a includes a gusset portion 28a, 28b, 34a, 34b hinged to the anchor portion 26a, 26b, 36a, 36b along a fold line 27a, 27b, 37a, 37b.

Each top tab 72, 72a includes a web portion 30a, 30b, 32a, 32b hinged to a gusset portion 28a, 28b, 34a, 34b along a respective extension 29a, 29b, 35a, 35b of the fold line 17, 19. Each top tab 72, 72a includes a cover portion 80a, 80b, 82a, 82b integrally formed with the top panel 18. Each web portion 30a, 30b, 32a, 32b is hinged to a respective cover portion 80a, 80b, 82a, 82b by a fold line 31a, 31b, 33a, 33b.

Optional opening A4 may be punched partially from the top panel 18, partially from the first or second side panels 16, 20, and partially from the top tabs 72, 72a. Opening A4 defines the ends of each of the fold lines 17, 19, 29a, 29b, 35a, 35b, 31a, 31b, 33a, 33b, 27a, 27b, 37a, 37b, 25a, 35b, 39a, 39b, and is located at the conceptual convergence points of the fold lines.

The folding of each upper tab 72, 72a is accomplished during assembly of the carton. To form an upper engagement structure from each upper tab 72, 72a, the anchor portion 26a, 26b, 36a, 36b is folded approximately 180 degrees into face-contacting relationship with the inner surface of the adjacent side panel 16, 20. The anchor portion 26a, 26b, 36a, 36b is held in the folded position by being pressed by one of the packaged articles B against the adjacent side panel 16, 20. The folding of anchor portions 26a, 26b, 36a, 36b causes gusset portions 28a, 28b, 34a, 34b to fold outwardly about fold lines 27a, 27b, 37a, 37b, such that gusset portions 28a, 28b, 34a, 34b extend outwardly from fold lines 27a, 27b, 37a, 37b along the sidewalls of packaged piece B. At the same time, web portions 30a, 30b, 32a, 32b are folded downwardly along fold lines 31a, 31b, 33a, 33b, such that they are in a folded position extending between fold lines 31a, 31b, 33a, 33b and the outer edges of gusset portions 28a, 28b, 34a, 34b. The completed upper engagement structure is shown in Figure 2, which shows a structure that is designed to securely engage the upper part of one item B.

Each lower tab 72b, 72c functions to provide sufficient material to define an adjacent, extreme heel opening A3. In particular, the heel opening A3 adjacent each lower tab 72b, 72c is positioned such that sufficient material surrounds the heel opening A3 even when the heel opening A3 extends into that lower tab 72b, 72c. The blank 10 is handled during assembly and packaging of the items B such that each heel opening A3 receives the bottom of a respective item B to retain said item B within the carton 90. Additionally, the heel tabs 42 are folded to help retain the items B.

The blank 10 includes a shock absorbing device. A first shock absorbing or attenuation device G is provided to attenuate or absorb forces, such as, but not limited to, impact forces, propagating within the carton 90.

The first attenuation device G comprises a pair of cutting elements, each of which may take the form of, for example, score lines or cut lines 17a, 17b. The cutting elements are spaced apart from one another to define a notch or connecting bridge portion P1 therebetween. Each of the cut lines 17a, 17b is linear in shape. The first cut line 17a is aligned so as to be collinear with the second cut line 17b. The first and second cut lines 17a, 17b are aligned collinear with the fold line 17 that joins the first side panel 16 to the top panel 18.

The blank 10 includes a second damping device G for dampening or absorbing forces, such as, but not limited to, impact forces propagating within the carton 90.

The second damping device G includes a pair of spaced apart score or cut lines 19a, 19b defining a notch or connecting bridge portion P2 therebetween. Each of the score lines 19a, 19b is linear in shape. The third score line 19a is aligned so as to be collinear with the fourth score line 19b. The third and fourth score lines 19a, 19b are aligned collinear with the fold line 19 that joins the second side panel 20 to the top panel 18.

The cut elements (score lines 17a, 17b, 19a, 19b) may be offset from the respective hinge connections (fold lines 17, 19) between the top panel 18 and the respective ones of the first and second side panels 16, 20 in the direction of a common notional line "y" (see FIG. 2). In this manner, the cut lines 17a, 17b, 19a, 19b may be provided in the top panel 18 and/or in the side panels 16, 20. In other embodiments, the cut lines 17a, 17b, 19a, 19b may be provided in the top panel 18 and/or in the side panels 16, 20. The cut lines 17a, 17b, 19a, 19b may be parallel to and/or located near the respective hinge connections.

Returning to the assembly of the carton 90 illustrated in FIG. 2, the carton 90 can be formed by a series of successive folding operations on a straightening machine, thereby eliminating the need for the carton 90 to be rotated or inverted to complete its assembly. The folding process is not limited to that described below and may be modified according to specific manufacturing requirements.

Group B of articles is assembled, in the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2, six articles arranged in a 2×3 array. The top panel 18 of the blank 10 is placed over group B of articles to provide the top wall 18 of the carton 90.

The first and second side panels 16, 20 are folded about fold lines 17, 19, respectively, relative to the top panel 18 around both sides of the group of items B so as to be disposed around both sides of the group of items B to form the first and second side walls 16, 20 of the carton 90.

The anchor portions 26a, 26b, 36a, 36 may be folded substantially simultaneously into a face-contacting relationship with the first and second side panels 16, 20, respectively, such that the first and second side panels 16, 20 are folded relative to the top panel 18 to form the top engagement structure described above.

Alternatively, the upper engagement structure may be formed after the carton 90 is assembled into a tubular configuration. The anchor portions 26a, 26b, 36a, 36 may be sandwiched between the first and second side panels 16, 20, respectively, which are hingedly connected thereto, and the articles B disposed side-by-side.

The first and second corner panels 14, 22 are folded about fold lines 15, 21, respectively, relative to the first and second side panels 16, 20, respectively, around the heel or bottom of the adjacently positioned article B.

The heel tab 42 may be folded out of the plane of the first and second corner panels 14, 22 about a fold line 43 prior to folding the first and second corner panels 14, 22 relative to the first and second side panels 16, 20, respectively.

The first base panel 12 may be folded about fold line 13 so as to be positioned adjacent to the base of the group of articles B, and then the second base panel 24 may be folded about fold line 23 so as to be in at least partial overlapping relationship with the first base panel 12, such that each of the heel tabs 42 engages with the base of a respective article B.

The first and second base panels 12, 24 are secured together. Each of the male tabs M is displaced inwardly out of the plane of the second base panel 24. In doing so, each of the female tabs F is displaced inwardly to create a corresponding opening in the first base panel 12. The male tabs M are received within each of the openings to lock the first and second base panels 12, 24 together. In this manner, a tubular structure is formed around the group of articles B.

In FIG. 2, the assembled carton 90 is shown. The first and second damping devices G are shown along the side edges defined by the fold lines 17, 19 of the top panel 18. The first and second connecting bridge portions P1, P2 are centrally disposed along the side edges of the top panel 18. The second connecting bridge portion P2 is disposed above the central opening, heel opening A3, such that the second connecting bridge portion P2 and the central opening are generally disposed along a common notional line "y" that extends perpendicular to the fold lines 17, 19.

The first connecting bridge portion P1 is positioned adjacent to a first item B in a first row of items B in the carton 90, which in the illustrated embodiment is the center item B. The second connecting bridge portion P2 is positioned adjacent to a second item B in a second row of items B in the carton 90, which in the illustrated embodiment is the center item B.

Referring now to Figures 3 and 4, an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure is shown. In the illustrated alternative embodiment, like numerals have been used to indicate like parts where possible, but with the addition of "100" to indicate that these features belong to the second embodiment. The alternative embodiment shares many common features with the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2, and therefore only the differences from the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2 will be described in further detail.

Figure 4 illustrates a blank 110 according to a second embodiment. The blank 110 comprises a plurality of main panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124 for forming a tubular structure. The plurality of main panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124 comprises a first base panel 112, a first corner panel 114, a first side panel 116, a top panel 118, a second side panel 120, a second corner panel 122, and a second base panel 124. The plurality of panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124 may be arranged in a linear series hinged to one another by corresponding fold lines 113, 115, 117, 119, 121, 123.

The blank 110 includes a first damping device G for dampening or absorbing forces, such as, but not limited to, impact forces, propagating within the carton 190.

The first attenuation device G comprises a pair of spaced apart score or cut lines 117a, 117b defining a first notch or connecting bridge portion P1 therebetween. Each of the score lines 117a, 117b is non-linear in shape. The score lines 117a, 117b may be substantially L-shaped. The first score line 117a comprises a first linear portion. The first score line 117a comprises a second linear portion, the second linear portion being divergently disposed relative to the first linear portion. Optionally, the second linear portion may be continuous with the first linear portion.

The first straight portion of the first cut line 117a may be collinear with the fold line 117 that joins the first side panel 116 to the top panel 118.

A second linear portion of the first score line 117a is defined in the top panel 118. The second linear portion of the first score line 117a is transverse to the fold line 117 joining the first side panel 116 to the top panel 118, and optionally perpendicular to the fold line 117.

A second straight portion of the first score line 117a extends from the fold line 117 joining the first side panel 116 to the top panel 118 into the top panel 118.

The second straight portion of the first cut line 117a extends from the innermost end of the first straight portion of the first cut line 117a. The innermost end of the first straight portion of the first cut line 117a is near or adjacent to the first connecting bridge portion P1.

The second cut line 117b has a first linear portion. The second cut line 117b has a second linear portion, and the second linear portion of the second cut line 117b is arranged to be divergent with respect to the first linear portion of the second cut line 117b. Optionally, the second linear portion of the second cut line 117b may be continuous with the first linear portion.

The first straight portion of the second cut line 117b may be collinear with the fold line 117 that joins the first side panel 116 to the top panel 118.

A second linear portion of the second score line 117b is defined in the top panel 118. The second linear portion of the second score line 117b is transverse to the fold line 117 joining the first side panel 116 to the top panel 118, and optionally perpendicular to the fold line 117.

A second straight portion of the second score line 117b extends from the fold line 117 joining the first side panel 116 to the top panel 118 into the top panel 118.

The second straight portion of the second cut line 117b extends from the innermost end of the first straight portion of the second cut line 117b. The innermost end of the first straight portion of the second cut line 117b is near or adjacent to the first connecting bridge portion P1. In this manner, the second straight portions of the first and second cut lines 117a, 117b define the edges of the first connecting bridge portion P1.

The second straight portion of the first cut line 117a may be substantially parallel to the second straight portion of the second cut line 117b.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first linear portion of the first score line 117a is collinear with the first linear portion of the second score line 117b. The first linear portions of the first and second score lines 117a, 117b are collinear with the fold line 117 that joins the first side panel 116 to the top panel 118.

The blank 110 includes a second damping device G for dampening or absorbing forces, such as, but not limited to, impact forces, propagating within the carton 190.

The second damping device G has a pair of spaced apart score or cut lines 119a, 119b between which a second notch or connecting bridge portion P2 is defined.

Each of the score lines 119a, 119b is non-linear in shape. The score lines 119a, 119b may be substantially L-shaped. The third score line 119a includes a first linear portion. The third score line 119a includes a second linear portion, the second linear portion being divergently disposed relative to the first linear portion. Optionally, the second linear portion may be contiguous with the first linear portion.

The first straight portion of the third cut line 119a may be collinear with the fold line 119 that joins the second side panel 120 to the top panel 118.

A second linear portion of the third score line 119a is defined in the top panel 118. The second linear portion of the third score line 119a is transverse to the fold line 119 joining the second side panel 120 to the top panel 118, and optionally perpendicular to the fold line 119.

A second straight portion of the third score line 119a extends from the fold line 119 joining the second side panel 120 to the top panel 118 into the top panel 118.

The second straight portion of the third cut line 119a extends from the innermost end of the first straight portion of the third cut line 119a. The innermost end of the first straight portion of the third cut line 119a is near or adjacent to the second connecting bridge portion P2.

The fourth cut line 119b has a first linear portion. The fourth cut line 119b has a second linear portion, the second linear portion of the fourth cut line 119b being divergently disposed relative to the first linear portion of the fourth cut line 119b. Optionally, the second linear portion of the fourth cut line 119b may be continuous with the first linear portion.

The first straight portion of the fourth cut line 119b may be collinear with the fold line 119 that joins the second side panel 120 to the top panel 118.

A second linear portion of the fourth score line 119b is defined in the top panel 118. The second linear portion of the fourth score line 119b is transverse to the fold line 119 joining the second side panel 120 to the top panel 118, and optionally perpendicular to the fold line 119.

A second straight portion of the fourth score line 119b extends from the fold line 119 joining the second side panel 120 to the top panel 118 into the top panel 118.

The second straight portion of the fourth cut line 119b extends from the innermost end of the first straight portion of the fourth cut line 119b. The innermost end of the first straight portion of the fourth cut line 119b is near or adjacent to the second connecting bridge portion P2. In this manner, the second straight portions of the third and fourth cut lines 119a, 119b define the edges of the second connecting bridge portion P2.

The second straight portion of the third cut line 119a may be substantially parallel to the second straight portion of the fourth cut line 119b.

In the illustrated embodiment, the first linear portion of the third score line 119a is collinear with the first linear portion of the fourth score line 119b. The first linear portions of the third and fourth score lines 119a, 119b are collinear with the fold line 119 that joins the second side panel 120 to the top panel 118.

The cut elements (score lines 117a, 117b, 119a, 119b) may be offset in the direction of a common notional line "y" from the respective hinge connections (fold lines 117, 119) between the top panel 118 and the respective ones of the first and second side panels 116, 120. In this manner, the first linear portions of the cut lines 117a, 117b, 119a, 119b may be provided in the top panel 118 and/or in the side panels 116, 120. In other embodiments, the first linear portions of the cut lines 117a, 117b, 119a, 119b may be provided in the top panel 118 and/or in the side panels 116, 120. The first linear portions of the cut lines 117a, 117b, 119a, 119b may be parallel to and/or located near the respective hinge connections.

4 shows a carton 190 formed from the blank 110 with the first and second damping devices G shown in the top panel 118. The first and second connecting bridge portions P1, P2 are centrally disposed along opposing edges defined by fold lines 117, 119 of the top panel 118. The second connecting bridge portion P2 is disposed above the central opening, heel opening A3, such that the second connecting bridge portion P2 and the central opening are generally disposed along a common notional line "y" that extends perpendicular to the fold lines 117, 119.

The first connecting bridge portion P1 is positioned adjacent to a first item B in a first row of items B in the carton 190, which in the illustrated embodiment is the center item B. The second connecting bridge portion P2 is positioned adjacent to a second item B in a second row of items B in the carton 190, which in the illustrated embodiment is the center item B.

During tests such as drop tests, impact tests, and jerk tests, it has been found that the provision of the first and second damping devices D on the cartons 90, 190 reduces tear propagation from the heel opening A3. During testing, the connecting bridge portions P1, P2 tear or break. The tear propagates between the first and second score lines 17a, 17b, 117a, 117b, or between the third and fourth score lines 19a, 19b, 119a, 119b, or between the first and second score lines 17a, 17b, 117a, 117b and the third and fourth score lines 19a, 19b, 119a, 119b.

Severing the connecting bridge portions P1, P2 is believed to have the effect of reducing forces in the lower regions of the carton side walls 16, 20, 116, 120 around the heel opening A3. This may be due to energy dissipation, or may be due to energy or forces being dispersed, directed, or deflected to other regions of the carton 90, 190.

Each of the cutting elements may have a maximum dimension or length along the respective hinge connection between the top panel 18, 118 and each of the first and second side panels 16, 20, 116, 120, which ranges from 3.5 mm to 5.5 mm. In one embodiment, each of the cutting elements may have a length along the respective hinge connection of at least 4.5 mm. In another embodiment, each of the cutting elements may have a length measured along the respective hinge connection of about 4.5 mm. In other embodiments, the cutting elements may have alternative dimensions that provide the desired cushioning effect without compromising the strength or load-bearing capabilities of the carrier H.

The score or cut-free area (connecting bridge portion P1, P2) defined between the cut elements prior to assembly of the carton 90, 190 may be free of any form of fold defining device, such as, for example, embossed, debossed, or other lines, to define or facilitate folding of the first or second side panel 16, 20, 116, 120 along a predetermined location relative to the top panel 18, 118. The score, cut-free area, or connecting bridge portion P1, P2 may provide an uninterrupted connection between the first or second side panel 16, 20, 116, 120 and the top panel 18, 118.

In the illustrated embodiment, the hinge connections, fold lines 17, 19, 117, 119 are formed as embossments or debossments in the sheet material. The cutting elements are formed as cut lines 17a, 17b, 19a, 19b, 117a, 117b, 119a, 119b that interrupt the embossments or debossments.

It will be appreciated that in the assembled cartons 90, 190, the notches, cut-free areas, and connecting bridge portions P1, P2 are bent, deformed, or folded.

Each of the notches or cut-free areas (connecting bridge portions P1, P2) formed between the respective cutting elements may have a maximum dimension or maximum length along the respective hinge connection in the range of 3.0 mm to 7.0 mm. In one embodiment, each of the connecting bridge portions P1, P2 may have a dimension along the respective hinge connection of at least 5.0 mm. In another embodiment, each of the connecting bridge portions P1, P2 may have a dimension measured along the respective hinge connection of about 5.0 mm.

In other embodiments, the connecting bridge portions P1, P2 may have alternative dimensions that are large enough to be strong enough to withstand the loads imposed during use of the handle, yet small enough to be weak enough to break and provide the desired cushioning effect.

The cartons 90, 190 may be constructed from paperboard with a caliper (thickness) ranging from 16 point to 18 point (where 1 point = 0.001 inch or 0.0254 mm).

In one embodiment, the cartons 90, 190 were constructed from paperboard having a 16 point (approximately 0.4 mm) caliper and packaged six beverage cans with a capacity of 350 ml.

In another embodiment, the carton 90, 190 was constructed from paperboard having an 18 point caliper (approximately 0.46 mm) and packaged six beverage cans having a capacity of 500 ml.

The present disclosure provides a carton 90 for packaging an item B. The carton 90 is formed from a blank 10, 110, 210, 310, which can be nested with a similar blank to form the carton 90.

The carton 90, 190 includes a plurality of panels 12, 14, 116, 18, 20, 22, 24, 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124 for defining an interior for receiving at least one item B, including a top panel 18, 118, a pair of side panels 16, 20, 116, 120, and a bottom panel 12/24, 112/124. At least one of the side panels 16, 20, 116, 120 has an opening A3 for receiving a bottom portion of at least one item B. The carton 90, 190 further comprises a shock absorber, the shock absorber including at least two cutting elements 17a/17b, 19a/19b, 117a/117b, 119a/119b disposed near or along the hinge connection 17, 19, 117, 119 between the top panel 18, 118 and at least one of the side panels 16, 20, 116, 120, each of the at least two cutting elements 17a/17b, 19a/19b, 117a/117b, 119a/119b being separate from the line elements forming the hinge connection 17, 19, 117, 119 between the top panel 18, 118 and at least one of the side panels 16, 20, 116, 120, i.e., at least two The cutting elements 17a/17b, 19a/19b, 117a/117b, 119a/119b differ in size and/or shape from the line elements that make up the hinge connections 17, 19, 117, 119, at least two cutting elements 17a/17b, 19a/19b, 117a/117b, 119a/119b are arranged side-by-side to form a notch or cut-free area, connecting bridge portions P1, P2 are arranged between the at least two cutting elements 17a/17b, 19a/19b, 117a/117b, 119a/119b, and the connecting bridge portions P1, P2 and the opening A3 are arranged generally along a common notional line "y" that extends perpendicular to the hinge connections 17, 19, 117, 119.

The cartons 90, 190 may have handles H on the top panels 18, 118.

The blanks 10, 110 have longitudinal edges with a plurality of recesses between which tabs are defined. The recesses may be arranged to allow the blank 10 to be nested with similar blanks 10, 110. The tabs provide upper and lower corner portions of the carton 90, 190.

It will be appreciated that various modifications may be made within the scope of the present invention. For example, the size and shape of the panels and openings may be adjusted to accommodate items of different sizes or shapes.

In some embodiments, the cutting elements may take on different forms, such as, but not limited to, half or partial depth score lines, openings, notches, slots, slits, or apertures. The cutting elements may also be formed in other ways that have the effect of reducing the tear resistance or otherwise locally weakening the sheet material.

The cutting element may have alternative shapes, for example, but not limited to, the score line, or at least a portion thereof, may have a "J", "C", "S", "Z", "3" or "E" shape. The cutting element may take the form of an oval, rectangular or other elongated shaped opening. The cutting element, score line or opening may have, for example, a rounded outer end to reduce the likelihood of a tear propagating beyond the cutting element, while the inner end of the cutting element may be shaped to facilitate or promote severing of the connecting bridge portions P1, P2.

The size or dimensions of the notches or connection portions P1, P2 and/or the size or dimensions of the cutting elements or score lines 17a, 17b, 19a, 19b, 117a, 117b, 119a, 119b may be adjusted depending on the size and/or weight of the can or article B.

It will be appreciated that as used herein, directional references such as "top," "bottom," "base," "front," "back," "edge," "side," "inside," "outside," "above," and "below" do not necessarily limit the respective panels to such orientations, but may merely serve to distinguish these panels from one another.

As used herein, the terms "hinge connection" and "fold line" refer to any type of line that defines a hinge feature of the blank that facilitates folding portions of the blank relative to one another or otherwise indicates an optimal panel folding location for the blank. References to a "hinge connection" should not be construed as necessarily referring to only a single fold line, and in fact a hinge connection can be formed from two or more fold lines, each of which may be either straight/linear or curved/curved in shape. When straight fold lines form a hinge connection, they may be disposed parallel to one another or may be slightly angled relative to one another. When curved fold lines form a hinge connection, they may intersect one another, and a shaped panel is defined within the area bounded by the curved fold lines. A typical example of such a hinge connection may comprise a pair of arched or bow-shaped fold lines that intersect at two points, such that the lines define an oval panel between them. The hinge connection may be formed from one or more straight fold lines and one or more curved fold lines. A typical example of such a hinge connection may include a combination of straight fold lines and arched or bowed fold lines, where the fold lines intersect at two points such that they define a half-moon shaped panel therebetween.

As used herein, the term "fold line" may refer to any of a score line, an embossed line, a debossed line, a perforation line, a short slit line, a half-cut line, a single half-cut, an interrupted score line, a line of aligned slits, a multiple score line, and any combination of the foregoing options.

It should be understood that the hinge connections and fold lines can each include elements formed in the blank substrate, including perforations, perforation lines, short slit lines, half-cut lines, single half-cuts, score lines, interrupted score lines, slits, scores, and any combination thereof. The elements can be sized and positioned to provide a desired function. For example, perforation lines can be sized or designed with a degree of weakness to define fold and/or cut lines. Perforation lines can be designed to facilitate folding and resist breakage, facilitate folding and facilitate breakage with more effort, facilitate breakage with less effort, or facilitate breakage with less effort.

As used herein, the phrase "registry" refers to the alignment of two or more elements (e.g., an opening formed in a first of two overlapping panels and a second opening formed in a second of two overlapping panels) in an assembled carton. These elements that are in registry with one another may be aligned with one another in the thickness direction of the overlapping panels. For example, when an opening in a first panel "registries" with a second opening in a second panel that is placed in an overlapping arrangement with the first panel, an edge of the opening may extend along at least a portion of the edge and be aligned with the second opening in the thickness direction of the first and second panels.

10 Blank 12 First base panel 13 Fold line 14 First corner panel 15 Fold line 16 First side panel 17 Fold line (hinge connection)
17a Cutting line (slit line)
17b Cutting line (slit line)
18 Top panel 19 Fold line (hinge connection)
19a Cutting line (slit line)
19b Cutting line (slit line)
20 second side panel 21 fold line 22 second corner panel 23 fold line 24 second base panel 25a fold line 26a anchor portion 26b anchor portion 27a fold line 27b fold line 28a gusset portion 28b gusset portion 29a extension line 29b extension line 30a web portion 30b web portion 31a fold line 31b fold line 32a web portion 32b web portion 33a fold line 33b fold line 34a gusset portion 34b gusset portion 35a extension line 35b extension line 36 anchor portion 36a anchor portion 36b anchor portion 37a fold line 37b fold line 39a fold line 39b fold line 42 heel tab 43 fold line 45a fold line 45b fold line 52 finger tab 53 Fold line 55 Cut line 60a Pull tab 60b Pull tab 61a Fold line 61b Fold line 62a First cut line 62b Second cut line 70 Cutout 70a Cutout 70b Cutout 70c Cutout 72 First top tab 72a Second top tab 72b First bottom tab 72c Second bottom tab 80a Cover portion 80b Cover portion 82a Cover portion 82b Cover portion 90 Carton 110 Blank 112 First base panel 113 Fold line 114 First corner panel 115 Fold line 116 First side panel 117 Fold line (hinge connection)
117a Cutting line (slit line)
117b Cutting line (slit line)
118 Upper panel 119 Folding line (hinge connection)
119a Cutting line (slit line)
119b Cutting line (slit line)
120 second side panel 121 fold line 122 second corner panel 123 fold line 124 second base panel 190 carton

Claims (17)

1. A carton for packaging one or more articles, the carton comprising a plurality of panels defining an interior for receiving at least one article, the panels including a top panel, a pair of side panels, and a bottom panel, at least one of the pair of side panels having an opening for receiving a bottom portion of the at least one article;
The carton further comprises a buffer device having two cutting elements and a bridge portion disposed between the two cutting elements, the two cutting elements being disposed along a hinge connection between the top panel and at least one of the side panels;
each of the two cut elements is separate from the line element forming the hinge connection and interrupts the line element forming the hinge connection such that the line element extends from a point adjacent to one of the two cut elements to an end of the top panel and from a point adjacent to the other of the two cut elements to an opposite end of the top panel;
the two cutting elements are disposed adjacent to one another such that the bridge portion is disposed between the two cutting elements;
the bridge portion is positioned over the opening such that the bridge portion and the opening are generally aligned along a common notional line extending perpendicular to the hinge connection. 1. A carton for packaging one or more articles, the carton comprising a plurality of panels defining an interior for receiving at least one article, the panels including a top panel, a pair of side panels, and a bottom panel, at least one of the pair of side panels having an opening for receiving a bottom portion of the at least one article;
the carton further comprises a buffer device including at least two cutting elements disposed along a hinge connection between the top panel and at least one of the pair of side panels;
each of the at least two cutting elements is separate from the line element forming the hinge connection, and the at least two cutting elements are disposed adjacent to each other such that a bridge portion is disposed between the at least two cutting elements;
the bridge portion is disposed over the opening such that the bridge portion and the opening are generally disposed along a common notional line extending perpendicular to the hinge connection;
each of the at least two cutting elements comprises a score line;
The score line has a first portion and a second portion extending from the first portion in a direction transverse to the first portion. The carton of claim 2, wherein a first portion of a first cutting element of the at least two cutting elements is aligned with a first portion of a second cutting element of the at least two cutting elements. The carton of claim 3, wherein the first portion of the first cutting element and the first portion of the second cutting element are aligned in line with the hinge connection. The carton of claim 3, wherein the second portion of the first cutting element is flared relative to the first portion of the first cutting element. The carton of claim 3, wherein the second portion of the second cutting element is flared relative to the first portion of the second cutting element. The carton of claim 2, wherein each of the at least two cutting elements is substantially L-shaped. The carton of claim 2, wherein at least a portion of a first cutting element of the at least two cutting elements and at least a portion of a second cutting element of the at least two cutting elements extend transversely to the hinge connection. The carton of claim 2, wherein at least a portion of a first cutting element of the at least two cutting elements and at least a portion of a second cutting element of the at least two cutting elements are arranged to diverge with respect to the hinge connection. The carton of claim 9, wherein the at least a portion of the first cutting element and the at least a portion of the second cutting element are provided on at least one of the top panel and the at least one of the pair of side panels. 2. The carton of claim 1, wherein each of the two cutting elements interrupts the hinge connection between the top panel and at least one of the pair of side panels such that a first portion of the hinge connection extends between one of the two cutting elements and an end of the top panel and a second portion of the hinge connection extends between the other of the two cutting elements and an opposite end of the top panel . The carton of claim 1, further comprising a handle on the top panel. 1. A blank for forming a carton, the blank comprising a plurality of panels defining an interior of the carton, the panels including a top panel, a pair of side panels, and a bottom panel, at least one of the pair of side panels having an opening for receiving a bottom portion of at least one article, the blank further comprising a buffer device including at least two cut elements disposed along a hinge connection between the top panel and at least one of the pair of side panels, each of the at least two cut elements being separate from a line element forming the hinge connection, the at least two cut elements being disposed adjacent to one another with a bridge portion disposed between the at least two cut elements, the bridge portion and the opening being disposed generally along a common notional line extending perpendicular to the hinge connection,
each of the at least two cutting elements comprises a score line;
The blank , wherein the score line has a first portion and a second portion extending from the first portion in a direction transverse to the first portion . 1. A carton for packaging one or more articles, the carton comprising a plurality of panels defining an interior for receiving at least one article, the panels including a top panel, a pair of side panels, and a bottom panel, at least one of the pair of side panels having an opening for receiving a bottom portion of the at least one article, the carton further comprising a buffer device including at least two cutting elements disposed near a hinge connection between the top panel and the at least one of the pair of side panels, each of the at least two cutting elements being separate from a line element forming the hinge connection, the at least two cutting elements being disposed adjacent to one another with a bridge portion disposed between the at least two cutting elements, the bridge portion being disposed over the opening such that the bridge portion and the opening are disposed generally along a common notional line extending perpendicular to the hinge connection ,
each of the at least two cutting elements comprises a score line;
The score line has a first portion and a second portion extending from the first portion in a direction transverse to the first portion. The carton of claim 1 , wherein the bridge portion is free of score lines. A blank for forming a carton, the blank comprising a plurality of panels defining an interior of the carton, the panels including a top panel, a pair of side panels, and a bottom panel;
at least one of the pair of side panels has an opening for receiving a bottom portion of at least one article;
the blank further comprises a shock absorber having two cutting elements and a bridge portion disposed between the two cutting elements, the two cutting elements being disposed along a hinge connection between the top panel and at least one of the side panels;
each of the two cut elements is separate from the line element forming the hinge connection and interrupts the line element forming the hinge connection such that the line element extends from a point adjacent to one of the two cut elements to an end of the top panel and from a point adjacent to the other of the two cut elements to an opposite end of the top panel;
the two cutting elements are disposed adjacent to one another such that the bridge portion is disposed between the two cutting elements;
The blank, wherein the bridge portion is positioned over the opening such that the bridge portion and the opening are aligned generally along a common notional line extending perpendicular to the hinge connection . The blank of claim 16 , wherein the bridge portion is free of score lines.

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