KR20230162655A - Goods carriers and blanks for them - Google Patents

Abstract

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to an upper engaging article carrier (90) and a method of forming a carrier (90) for packaging one or more article blanks (10A, 10B, 10C, 10D) to form a carrier (90). One side provides a plurality of connected blanks 1, each comprising two or more blanks 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D to form an article carrier 90. Each blank (10A, 10B, 10C, 10D) has an engaging panel (12) having one or more article-receiving devices (RT1) and a pair of side or shoulder panels hingedly connected to opposite sides of the engaging panel (12). (20, 22). The first side panel 20 of the first of the two or more blanks (10A, 10B, 10C, 10D) is connected to the first of the two or more blanks (10A, 10B, 10C, 10D) by one or more breakable connections (N). It is breakably connected to the adjacent side panel 22 of the second blank. The breakable connection (N) breaks automatically in response to application of the plurality of connected blanks (1) to the article group (B).

Description

Goods carriers and blanks for them

The present invention relates to article top engaging devices, article carriers and blanks for forming the same. More specifically, but not limited to, the present invention relates to a plurality of blanks forming a top-gripping plurality of article carriers having one or more apertures for receiving and retaining articles therein.

In the field of packaging, it is known to provide cartons for transporting various items. Cartons are well known in the art and are useful for transporting, storing and providing access to groups of items for consumption by consumers. For cost and environmental considerations, these cartons or carriers should be formed from as little material as possible, minimizing waste of the material from which they are formed. Additional considerations include the strength of the carton and its suitability for storing and transporting large items. It is desirable that the contents of the carton are safe within the carton.

It is well known to provide a top gripped article carrier with an aperture formed in a panel of the carrier, wherein tabs are formed from the panel to define the aperture. These tabs are displaced out of the plane of the panel when an article is received in the hole, where the tabs engage the article generally about a flange or lip of the article.

The present invention seeks to provide improvements in the field of cartons, which are generally formed from cardboard or the like.

A first aspect of the invention provides a plurality of connected blanks to form two or more article carriers. Each blank includes an engaging panel having one or more article-receiving devices, and one or more shoulder panels hingedly connected to the engaging panel. One or more shoulder panels of a first blank among the plurality of connected blanks are breakably connected to one or more adjacent shoulder panels of a second blank among the plurality of connected blanks by one or more breakable connectors.

Advantageously, the multiple connected blanks do not require cutting tools or steps to be implemented when the blanks are applied to the articles to form a plurality of secondary packages for the primary product container or articles.

Optionally, the breakable connection automatically breaks in response to folding the shoulder panel relative to the hinged engagement panel.

Optionally, the breakable connection automatically breaks in response to application of the plurality of connected blanks to a group of articles.

A second aspect of the invention provides a plurality of connected blanks to form two or more article carriers. Each blank includes an engaging panel having one or more article-receiving devices and a pair of side panels hingedly connected to opposite sides of the engaging panel. The plurality of connected blanks include one or more pairs of breakably connected side panels. The at least one breakably connected pair of side panels includes a first side panel hingedly connected to an engaging panel of a first blank among the plurality of connected blanks, and an engaging panel of an adjacent second blank among the plurality of connected blanks. and a second hinged side panel.

Optionally, the one or more breakable connections between the first and second side panels automatically break in response to folding the side panels relative to the hinged engagement panel.

Optionally, the breakable connection automatically breaks in response to engagement or application of the plurality of connected blanks to a group of articles.

Optionally, the article-receiving device of a first of the plurality of connected blanks is spaced a first distance from the article-receiving device of a second blank of the plurality of connected blanks. The first distance is less than or equal to the maximum diameter of the article that can be accommodated in the article-receiving devices of the first and second blanks.

A third aspect of the invention provides an item top-receiving device in the main panel of an item carrier. The article top-receiving device includes an opening and a plurality of engaging tabs. The plurality of engaging tabs includes at least one first tab hingedly connected to the main panel by a straight fold line and at least one second tab partially connected from the main panel by a non-straight cut.

Optionally, the plurality of engaging tabs includes one or more third tabs, the third tabs being integral with a side panel formed from the main panel and hingedly connected to the main panel.

Optionally, each of the plurality of engaging tabs is substantially trapezoidal in shape.

Optionally, a side edge of each of the plurality of engaging tabs abuts a side edge of an adjacent one of the plurality of engaging tabs.

Optionally, a free end edge of each of the plurality of engaging tabs provides an engaging edge for engaging an article.

Optionally, the article top-receiving device includes a plurality of second tabs disposed substantially on a portion of the perimeter of the receiving hole opposite the side panel from which the third tab extends.

Optionally, the one or more second tabs are partially defined by one or more “T” shaped cut lines.

Optionally, the one or more second tabs are partially defined by one or more “L” shaped cut lines.

Optionally, the one or more second tabs are partially defined by one or more “J” shaped cut lines.

Optionally, the one or more second tabs are defined in part by one or more cut lines having a first radial cut line portion and a second circumferential cut line portion.

Optionally, the first radial cut line portion extends along a conceptual radial line extending from the center of the article top-receiving device.

Optionally, the second circumferential cut line portion is straight.

Optionally, the second circumferential cut line portion includes at least a portion perpendicular to the first radial cut line portion.

Optionally, the outermost ends of the first radial cut line portions define a conceptual circle centered at an intersection between conceptual extensions of two or more first radial cut line portions.

Optionally, the second circumferential cut line portion is tangent to the conceptual circle and includes a distal end disposed outside the conceptual circle.

Optionally, the non-straight cut is positioned inside the conceptual circle.

Optionally, a bridging connection is formed between the distal end of the non-straight cut portion and the distal end of the adjacent second circumferential cut line portion.

Optionally, the outermost end portion of the radial cut line defining the one or more first tabs is disposed outside the conceptual circle.

Optionally, the outermost end portion of the radial cut line defining the one or more third tabs is disposed outside the conceptual circle.

Optionally, a straight fold line of the one or more first tabs is positioned outside the conceptual circle.

A fourth aspect of the invention provides a method of forming two or more article carriers from a plurality of connected blanks. The plurality of connected blanks each includes two or more blanks forming an article carrier. Each blank includes an engaging panel having one or more article-receiving devices and one or more side panels hingedly connected to the engaging panel. A side panel of a first blank among the two or more blanks is breakably connected to a side panel of a second blank among the two or more blanks by one or more breakable connection parts. The method includes forming a group of articles; applying the connected plurality of blanks to the article group; and pressing the plurality of connected blanks around ends of articles forming the group of articles. The method includes folding the side panels of the first and second blanks about the hinged engagement panels. The breakable connection between the side panels of the first and second blanks automatically breaks in response to folding the side panels. The method includes receiving an article in each of the one or more article-receiving devices such that two or more distinct article carriers are formed.

Optionally, the method of forming two or more article carriers includes packaging articles, each of the articles having a top portion having an end diameter, a body having a body diameter, and a shoulder portion disposed between the body and the top portion. Includes. The body diameter is larger than the end diameter so that when two articles are placed side by side, a space exists in the area between the shoulder portions of the articles. The method includes displacing the side panels of the first and second blanks into the space, the displacement facilitating separation of the first blank from the second blank.

A fifth aspect of the invention provides an article carrier of the top engaging type comprising an engaging panel having one or more article-receiving devices and one or more side panels, wherein the one or more article-receiving devices are formed from the engaging panels, The one or more side panels include a breakable connection severed along an edge of the one or more side panels opposite the hinged connection with the engaging panel.

Optionally, the one or more side panels include tabs formed from the engaging panels, the tabs blocking a hinged connection between the one or more side panels and the engaging panels.

Within the scope of this application, various aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternatives described in the preceding paragraphs, the claims and/or the following description and drawings may be considered independently or in any combination thereof.

Features or elements described in connection with one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments as long as the features are compatible. One or more features or elements of one embodiment may be integrated or combined with any of the other embodiments disclosed herein, and the feature or element extracted from the one embodiment may be incorporated into one or more features or elements of the other embodiment. It may be included in addition to or in place of .

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

Exemplary embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.
Figure 1 is a plan view from above of a plurality of connected blanks, each of which can form a carrier, according to a first embodiment.
Figure 1B is an enlarged top view of a portion of one of the blanks of Figure 1, showing an article holding structure.
Figure 1C is a top view of a plurality of connected blanks showing the positions of the articles superimposed on them.
Figures 2 and 3 are perspective views from above of a carrier formed from one of the blanks of Figure 1;

Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of packages, blanks, and cartons are disclosed herein. It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of ways in which certain aspects of the invention may be implemented and do not represent an exhaustive list of all ways in which the invention may be implemented. As used herein, the word “exemplary” is used broadly to refer to an embodiment that serves as an example, sample, model, or pattern. In fact, it will be understood that the packages, blanks and cartons described herein may be implemented in a variety of alternative forms. Drawings are not necessarily to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of specific components. Known components, materials or methods are not necessarily described in great detail to avoid obscuring the disclosure. Any specific structural and functional details disclosed herein should not be construed as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to make various uses of the invention.

Referring to Figure 1, a carton or carrier, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, for receiving and transporting a group of primary products, for example bottles or cans (hereinafter referred to as article B). A plan view of a plurality of connected blanks 1 each capable of forming 90 is shown. Each blank 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D forms a secondary package for packaging one or more primary product containers or packages.

In the embodiments detailed herein, the terms “carton” and “carrier” refer to a carton for combining and transporting articles, such as primary product containers, for the non-limiting purpose of illustrating various features of the invention. It refers to courage. It is contemplated that the teachings of the present invention may be applied to a variety of product containers, which may or may not be tapered or cylindrical. Other exemplary containers include bottles (e.g., metal, glass, or plastic bottles), cans (e.g., aluminum cans), tins, pouches, packets, etc.

Blanks 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D are formed from sheets of a suitable substrate. As used herein, the term "suitable substrate" should be understood to include all manner of foldable sheet materials such as paperboard, corrugated cardboard, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, etc. It should be appreciated that more than one blank may be used, where appropriate, for example to provide a carrier structure as described in more detail below.

The packaging structure or carton 90 described herein may be formed from sheet material, such as cardboard, which may be made of or coated with materials to increase strength. An example of such sheet material is tear-resistant NATRALOCK® paperboard manufactured by WestRock Company. It should be noted that the tear resistant material may be provided in two or more layers to help improve the tear resistance of the package. In general, one surface of a sheet material may have different properties than another surface. For example, the surface of the sheet material facing outward in the 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 inward-facing sheet material, on the other hand, may be provided with a coating, layer, treatment, or prepared to provide properties such as tear resistance, good adhesion, heat sealability, or one or more of the other desired functional properties. there is.

In the illustrated embodiment, blanks 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D are configured to form a carton or carrier 90 for packaging example articles B in the example arrangement. In the illustrated embodiment the arrangement is a 2x3 matrix or array, with two rows of three items provided, with item B being a beverage can. Alternatively, the blanks 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D may be configured to form a carrier for packaging articles B of different types, numbers and sizes and/or for packaging articles in other arrangements or configurations. .

Referring to Figure 1, a plurality of connected blanks 1 is shown, specifically, there are four blanks 10A, 10B, 10C, and 10D arranged in a 2x2 matrix or array. Each blank 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D includes a main panel 12 to form the top wall or engagement panel of the carrier 90 (see Figures 2 and 3). Each blank 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D is connected to at least two adjacent blanks 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D by frangible connections 25, 27.

The blanks 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D comprise a first side or shoulder panel 20 hingedly connected to a first side edge of the main panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 21. .

The blanks 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D comprise a second side or shoulder panel 22 hingedly connected to a second side edge of the main panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 23. . The second side edge faces the first side edge.

The first blank 10A is breakably connected to the second blank 10B by a first breakable connection portion 25. More specifically, the second side or shoulder panel 22 of the first blank 10A is breakably connected to the first side or shoulder panel 20 of the second blank 10B. The first breakable connection portion 25 may include a plurality of cutting lines spaced apart from each other by a connecting bridge or nick (N). The first breakable connection 25 may include two or more connecting bridges or nicks N.

The third blank 10C is breakably connected to the fourth blank 10D by a second breakable connection portion 25. More specifically, the second side or shoulder panel 22 of the third blank 10C is breakably connected to the first side or shoulder panel 20 of the fourth blank 10D. The second breakable connection portion 25 may include a plurality of cutting lines spaced apart from each other by a connecting bridge or nick N. The second breakable connection 25 may include two or more connecting bridges or nicks N.

The first blank 10A is breakably connected to the third blank 10C by a third breakable connection portion 27. The third breakable connection portion 27 may include a plurality of cutting lines spaced apart from each other by a connecting bridge or nick N. The end edge of the main panel 12 of the first blank 10A is breakably connected to the end edge of the main panel 12 of the third blank 10C by two or more connecting bridges or nicks N.

The second blank 10B is breakably connected to the fourth blank 10D by a fourth breakable connection portion 27. The fourth breakable connection portion 27 may include a plurality of cutting lines spaced apart from each other by a connecting bridge or nick N. The end edge of the main panel 12 of the second blank 10B is breakably connected to the end edge of the main panel 12 of the fourth blank 10D by two or more connecting bridges or nicks N.

The plurality of connected blanks 1 may include a hole-shaped cutout. This cut blocks or separates the first breakable connection 25 from the second breakable connection 25 . The incision blocks or separates the third breakable connection portion 27 from the fourth breakable connection portion 27 . The cut separates a portion of each blank (10A, 10B, 10C, 10D) from each of the other blanks (10A, 10B, 10C, 10D).

Each main panel 12 includes one or more article retaining structures RT1 (see Figure 1b). The engagement panel 12 in the embodiment of Figure 1 includes a plurality of article retention structures RT1, specifically six article retention structures RT1 arranged in a 2x3 matrix or array.

The article holding structure RT1 includes an article receiving opening formed in the main panel 12 or partially formed by an aperture AP1 defined from the main panel 12 . Each article holding structure RT1 includes a plurality of teeth or tabs 14a, 14b, 16 disposed around an aperture AP1.

Each of the teeth 14a, 14b, 16 is defined from and is hingedly connected to the engagement panel 12. Each tooth 14a, 14b, 16 is partially defined by a pair of cut lines 13, 15. The cutting lines 13 and 15 extend substantially radially outward from the article receiving hole AP1.

The depicted embodiment includes eight teeth 14a, 14b, 16 defined around the article receiving aperture AP1. Each tooth 14a, 14b, 16 includes a free engaging edge opposing the hinged connection between each tooth 14a, 14b, 16 and the main panel 12. Each free engaging edge defines a portion of an article receiving aperture AP1. The article accommodating hole AP1 may have an approximately octagonal shape.

The article retaining structure RT1 includes one or more first tabs 14a coupled or connected to the main or engaging panel 12 by straight fold lines 17 . Straight fold lines 17 may be at least partially defined by straight cut lines. The straight fold lines 17 may not be parallel to opposing free engaging edges of the one or more first tabs 14a.

The article retaining structure RT1 includes one or more second tabs 14b coupled or connected to the main or engaging panel 12. The one or more second tabs 14b are partially separated from the main panel 12 by a non-rectilinear, optionally arcuate cut line 19 . A non-straight cut line 19 defines a lobe 18 formed from one or more second tabs 14b.

The article holding structure RT1 may include a plurality of second tabs 14b each having a protrusion 18 . The plurality of second tabs 14b are positioned in the opening such that when the article B is received in the opening the protrusion 18 pushes the article B toward the first or second side edge of the main panel 12. Can be arranged around.

Optionally, the radial cut lines 13, 15 defining the side edges of the teeth 14a, 14b, 16 may terminate with a circumferential cut line 11. In the illustrated embodiment, the circumferential cut line 11 is straight in shape, forming a “T” shaped cut line. In other embodiments, the circumferential cut line 11 may be non-straight or curved; The circumferential cut line 11 may define part of an “L” or “J” shaped cut line. In the illustrated embodiment, only the radial cut lines 13, 15 disposed between the pair of second tabs 14b end in a circumferential cut line 11. In another embodiment, the radial cut line 13 , 15 between the first tab 14a and the second tab 14b may additionally or alternatively terminate with a circumferential cut line 11 .

Optionally, article holding structure RT1 includes a third tab 16. The third tab (16) is integral with one of the first and second side panels (20, 22) and forms a hinged connection between said one of the first and second shoulder panels (20) and the main panel (12). 21, 23) are blocked.

The third tabs 16 are arranged to fold simultaneously with one of the first and second shoulder panels 20, 22 from which they extend.

The third tabs 16 may be displaced out of the plane of the main panel 12 when one of the first and second shoulder panels 20 , 22 from which they extend is folded relative to the main panel 12 .

Alternatively, the blanks 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D are lowered relative to the group of articles B, and when the articles B are received by the article holding structure RT1, the articles B are positioned at the third tab. (16) can be displaced out of the plane of the main panel (12). The first and second shoulder panels 20, 22 can be folded in response to receiving the article B in the article holding structure RT1.

In the illustrated embodiment, each article holding structure RT1 includes a pair of first tabs 14a disposed on opposite sides of a third tab 16.

In the illustrated embodiment, each article holding structure RT1 has a plurality (specifically, but not limited to five) second tabs 14b disposed approximately halfway inside the perimeter of the article accommodating opening AP1. Includes.

Optionally, each blank 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D includes a handle structure H. The handle structure H may include a pair of handle openings spaced apart from each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle opening is defined in part by the handle aperture A1 and in part by one or more collapsible tabs 60 formed in the engaging panel 12 . Each of the one or more foldable tabs 60 is connected thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 61 . In the depicted embodiment, each handle opening includes a pair of collapsible tabs 60. The first pair of collapsible tabs 60 of the first handle opening are substantially oppositely hingedly connected to the collapsible tabs 60 of the second handle opening. The first handle opening is disposed at the center of the first group of four article holding devices RT1. The second handle opening is disposed at the center of the second group of four article holding devices RT1.

Blanks 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D include at least a cardboard substrate. The material for this paperboard substrate may be selected from any conventional paperboard, for example weighing about 10pt. (0.010"/~0.25mm) or more, preferably about 16pt. (0.016"/~0.41mm) or more to about 28pt. (0.028"/~0.7mm) or less. Examples of such substrates include 27pt. (0.027"/~0.69mm) SBS board (Solid Bleached Sulfuric Acid Board Coated on One Side, manufactured by WestRock® Company, trade name PrintKote®) or CNK® board (Coated Natural Kraft® - unbleached kraft paperboard with a clay coating on one side, brand name CarrierKote ^TM ). The cardboard substrate may be bleached or unbleached board. The board may be coated on at least one side, optionally on the side opposite the lamination, with an existing coating selected for compatibility with the printing method and board composition.

Blanks 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D may include a tear resistant layer laminated to a cardboard layer. This optionally includes an adhesive layer between the cardboard substrate and the tear resistant layer. The tear resistant layer may be disposed on the uncoated side of a cardboard substrate and may be formed of a polymeric material and secured to the substrate. The tear resistant layer imparts toughness to the laminate structure. Suitable tear resistant materials include tear resistant, laminated sheet materials, which may include layers of n-axis oriented films, such as biaxially oriented polyester, oriented nylon, cross-laminated polyolefin, or MYLAR®, a high density polyolefin, such as NATRALOCK®. It may include, but is not limited to. The orientation and cross-lamination structure of these materials contribute to their tear resistance properties. Additionally, tear resistance may be due to the chemical properties of the tear resistant material, such as extruded metallocene-catalyzed polyethylene (mPE).

Alternatively, the tear resistant layer can be a layer of linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE). In embodiments where linear low density polyethylene (LLDPE) or mPE is used, there is no need to incorporate an adhesive layer. Other suitable materials with a high level of tear resistance may be used.

The adhesive layer may be made of a polyolefin material such as low density polyethylene (LDPE). The adhesive layer can be positioned between the substrate and the tear resistant layer to secure the tear resistant layer to the substrate.

Looking at the formation of the carrier 90 from the blanks 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D, a plurality of connected blanks 1 can be applied to the group of articles B. A plurality of connected blanks (1) are lowered relative to the group of articles (B). The article holding structure RT of each of the blanks 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D is aligned with each article B in the group. A portion of article B passes through engaging panel 12.

The first and second side panels 20, 22 of the blanks 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D are folded relative to the main panel 12 to which they are hingedly connected. The first and second side panels 20, 22 of the blanks 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D are folded around the sides or shoulders of the article B.

The breakable connection or nick N automatically breaks in response to the first and second side panels 20, 22 being folded.

The first and second side panels 20 and 22 of the blanks 10A, 10B, 10C and 10D may be folded simultaneously with the third tab 16.

As shown in Figure 1c, article B has a maximum diameter d. The article holding device RT1 adjacent the second side panel 22 of the first blank 10A is shown in Figure 1C from the article holding device RT1 adjacent the first side panel 20 of the second blank 10B. They are separated by the same distance (w) as indicated. The distance w is measured between the center or center of the article holding device RT1 of the first blank 10A and the center or center of the article holding device RT1 of the second blank 10B.

The article holding device RT1 adjacent to the second side panel 22 of the third blank 10C has a distance w from the article holding device RT1 adjacent to the first side panel 20 of the fourth blank 10D. They are spaced apart from each other, and the distance w is again a measurement of the distance between the centers of the article holding devices RT1.

The center or center of article holding device RT1 may, but need not, coincide with the center or center of aperture AP1.

The distance (w) may be less than or equal to the maximum article diameter (d).

The teeth 14a, 14b, 16 of the article retaining structures RT may be folded out of the plane of the main panel 12 when or immediately before the main panel 12 is pushed or pressed onto the article B. .

Each tooth 14a, 14b, 16 is folded around a respective article B received in each of the article holding structures RT.

The engaging edges of the teeth 14a, 14b, 16 engage under the protrusions of the article B. The protrusion may be located around the neck or chime of the article B (which may provide a flange). When the article B is a can the protrusion may be provided by an end seam of the can. If the article B is a bottle, the protrusion may be provided by the cap or a tamper evident device attached thereto, or by a flange disposed under the cap. In other embodiments, this may be provided by, but is not limited to, a ridge or undercut shape of the article B, or by an end closure of the article B, for example a crown cork or closure. No. In this way, the engaging edge grips or retains the article B and prevents or inhibits the article B from being unintentionally separated from the engaging panel 12. The assembled carrier 90 is shown in Figure 3.

The present invention provides an article carrier (90) of the top engaging type comprising an engaging panel (12). Engagement panel 12 includes one or more article receiving devices RT1 formed from engagement panel 12 . Item carrier 90 includes a pair of side or shoulder panels hingedly connected to opposite sides of engagement panels 12 .

The present disclosure provides a plurality of connected blanks (1) each comprising two or more blanks (10A, 10B, 10C, 10D) to form an article carrier (90). Each blank 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D has an engaging panel 12 having one or more article-receiving devices RT1 and a pair of sides or shoulders hingedly connected to opposite sides of the engaging panel 12. Includes panel. The first side panel of the first of the two or more blanks (10A, 10B, 10C, 10D) is adjacent to the second blank of the two or more blanks (10A, 10B, 10C, 10D) by one or more breakable connections. It is breakably connected to the placed side panel. The breakable connection breaks automatically in response to application of the plurality of connected blanks 1 to the group of articles.

In some embodiments, the article-receiving device RT1 of the first of the two or more blanks (10A, 10B, 10C, 10D) is the second blank of the two or more blanks (10A, 10B, 10C, 10D). It is separated from the article-receiving device RT1 by a distance w. The distance w may be less than or equal to the maximum diameter d of the article B that can be accommodated in the article-receiving device RT1 of the blanks 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D.

The upper engaging article carrier 90 forms a package with two or more articles B. Each of the articles B comprises an upper portion, which may be provided by an end closure or cap, which upper portion has an end diameter. Article B includes a body having a body diameter and a neck or shoulder portion disposed between the body and the upper end. The body diameter is larger than the top diameter. When two articles B are placed side by side, a gap or space exists between them in the area between the neck or shoulder portions of the articles B. The side or shoulder panels 20, 22 are displaceable into this area, which displacement facilitates the separation of one blank 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D from the other blanks 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D. .

The present disclosure also provides an item upper receiving device of the main panel 12, including an aperture AP1 and a plurality of engaging tabs 14a, 14b, 16. A plurality of engaging tabs 14a, 14b, 16 are connected to the main panel 12 by a straight fold line 17, with one or more first tabs 14a connected to the main panel 12 by a non-straight cut 19. ) and includes one or more second tabs 14a partially connected from. The plurality of engaging tabs 14a, 14b, 16 are integral with the side or shoulder panels 20, 22 formed on the main panel 12 and hingedly connected to the main panel 12, i.e. in a predefined hinged manner. It may comprise one or more second tabs 16 off the connection.

Each of the plurality of engaging tabs 14a, 14b, 16 may be substantially trapezoidal in shape.

A side edge of each of the plurality of engaging tabs 14a, 14b, and 16 may contact a side edge of an adjacent one of the plurality of engaging tabs 14a, 14b, and 16.

A plurality of engaging tabs 14a, 14b, 16 may each provide an engaging edge or support edge for engaging or supporting the free end edge article.

Embodiments of the present disclosure provide that the third tab 16 of the article retaining structure RT1 is disposed substantially around a portion of the periphery of the article receiving aperture AP1 opposite the side or shoulder panel 20, 22 from which the third tab 16 extends. An article holding structure RT1 having a plurality of second tabs 14b (specifically, but not limited to five) is provided.

The second tab 14b may be partially defined by one or more “T”, “L” or “J” shaped cutting lines. The second tab 14b may be defined, at least in part, by one or more cut lines having a first radial cut line portion and a second circumferential cut line portion. The first radial cut line portion extends along a notional radial line extending from the center of the article holding structure RT1. The second circumferential cut line portion may be arcuate or straight. The circumferential cut line portion may include at least a portion perpendicular to the first radial cut line portion.

The outermost ends of the plurality of first radial cut line portions define a conceptual circle (NC) centered at the intersection between conceptual extensions of two or more first radial cut line portions. The second circumferential cut line portion may be tangent to the conceptual circle NC and may include a distal end disposed outside the conceptual circle NC.

A non-straight or arcuate cutting line 19 may be placed inside the conceptual circle NC. A hinge or bridging connection is defined between the distal end of the non-straight or arcuate cut line 19 and the distal end of the adjacent second circumferential cut line portion.

The outermost extremities of the radial cut lines 13, 15 defining the first and/or third tabs 14a, 16 may be positioned outside the conceptual circle NC.

The straight fold line 17 of the first tab 14a and/or the straight cut part defining the straight fold line 17 may be placed outside the conceptual circle NC.

The free end edge of each of the plurality of engaging tabs 14a, 14b, 16 defines an aperture AP1 having a polygonal shape. Each free end edge of the plurality of engaging tabs 14a, 14b, 16 may provide at least two pairs of substantially or generally opposing free or engaging edges. A first pair of the two pairs of generally opposing free or engaged edges may be substantially orthogonal to at least a second pair of the two pairs of generally opposing free or engaged edges.

The present disclosure also provides a method of providing two or more article carriers (90) from a plurality of connected blanks (1). The plurality of connected blanks 1 each includes two or more blanks 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D forming an article carrier 90. Each blank 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D includes an engaging panel 12 having one or more article-receiving devices RT1 and one or more side or shoulder panels hingedly connected to the engaging panel 12. do. The side panel of the first blank among two or more blanks (10A, 10B, 10C, 10D) is breakable to the side panel of the second blank among two or more blanks (10A, 10B, 10C, 10D) by one or more breakable connections. connected. The method comprises the step of applying a plurality of connected blanks (1) to a group of articles (B), said step of applying a plurality of connected blanks (1) to a group of articles (B). pressing said plurality of connected blanks (1) around ends of articles (B) forming a group, and receiving an article (B) in each of said one or more article-receiving devices (RT1), Here the breakable connection between the side panels of the first and second blanks breaks automatically in response to folding said side or shoulder panels against the hinged engagement panel 12 . In this way, the plurality of connected blanks 1 are separated to form separate or separate article carriers 90 .

As used herein, “top”, “bottom”, “base”, “front”, “back”, “end”, “side”, “medial”, “lateral”, “top” and “bottom”. It does not necessarily limit each panel in that direction, but may simply serve to distinguish these panels from each other.

As used herein, the terms "hinged joint" and "fold line" define the hinge characteristics of the blank, facilitate folding of the blanks relative to each other, or otherwise provide optimal panel folding relative to the blank. It refers to any type of line that indicates location. Any reference to a “hinged joint” should not necessarily be construed as referring to a single fold line only. In practice, a hinged connection may be formed from two or more fold lines, where each of the two or more fold lines may be straight/linear or curved/curved in shape. The linear fold lines may be placed parallel to each other or at a slight angle to each other when forming a hinged connection. When the curved fold lines form a hinged connection, they may intersect each other to define a shaped panel within the area surrounded by the curved fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may include a pair of arcuate fold lines that intersect at two points, defining an oval panel between them. The hinged connection may be formed by one or more linear fold lines and one or more curved fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may include a combination of linear and arcuate fold lines that intersect at two points and define a half-moon shaped panel between them.

As used herein, the term "fold line" may refer to any of the following: scored line, raised line, debossed line, perforated line, short slit line, half-cut line, single half. -Cuts, interrupted cutting lines, lines of aligned slits, lines of scores and any combination of the previously mentioned options.

Hinged joints and fold lines are, respectively, of a blank including perforations, perforation lines, short slit lines, half-cut lines, single half-cuts, cut lines, interrupted cut lines, slits, notches, and any combination thereof. It may include elements formed on the substrate. The elements can be dimensioned and arranged to provide the desired functionality. For example, perforation lines may be dimensioned or fragility designed to define fold lines and/or separation lines. The perforated lines may be designed to facilitate folding and resist breakage, to facilitate folding and facilitate breakage with more effort, or to facilitate breakage with less effort.

As used herein, the phrase "in registry with" refers to two cartons in an upright position, such as an aperture formed in the first of two overlapping panels and a second aperture formed in the second of the two overlapping panels. It refers to the arrangement of the above elements. Elements that are aligned with each other may be aligned with each other in the thickness direction of the overlapping panels. For example, if a hole in a first panel is "aligned" with a second hole in a second panel placed in an overlapping arrangement with the first panel, the edge of the hole will extend along at least a portion of the edge of the second hole. It can be aligned with the second hole in the thickness direction of the first and second panels.

Claims (35)

A plurality of connected blanks to form two or more article carriers,
Each blank includes an engaging panel having one or more article-receiving devices, and one or more shoulder panels hingedly connected to the engaging panel,
A plurality of connected blanks, wherein one or more shoulder panels of a first blank among the plurality of connected blanks are breakably connected to one or more adjacent shoulder panels of a second blank among the plurality of connected blanks by one or more breakable connectors. According to paragraph 1,
wherein the one or more breakable connections automatically break in response to folding the shoulder panel relative to the hinged engagement panel. According to paragraph 1,
wherein the one or more breakable connections automatically break in response to application of the plurality of connected blanks to a group of articles. A plurality of connected blanks to form two or more article carriers,
Each blank includes an engaging panel having one or more article-receiving devices and a pair of side panels hingedly connected to opposite sides of the engaging panel,
The plurality of connected blanks include one or more breakably connected side panel pairs by one or more breakable connectors, and the one or more breakable connected side panel pairs are connected to an engaging panel of a first blank of the plurality of connected blanks. A plurality of connected blanks, comprising a first hingedly connected side panel and a second side panel hingedly connected to an engaging panel of an adjacent second blank of the plurality of connected blanks. According to paragraph 4,
wherein one or more breakable connections between the first and second side panels automatically break in response to folding the side panels relative to a hinged engagement panel. According to clause 5,
wherein the one or more breakable connections automatically break in response to application of the plurality of connected blanks to a group of articles. According to clause 5,
The article-receiving device of the first blank among the plurality of connected blanks is spaced apart from the article-receiving device of the second blank among the plurality of connected blanks by a first distance, and the first distance is the article-receiving device of the first and second blanks. -A plurality of connected blanks, each of which is less than or equal to the maximum diameter of the article that can be accommodated in the receiving devices. An article top-receiving device in the main panel of an article carrier, comprising:
The article top-receiving device includes an opening and a plurality of engaging tabs,
wherein the plurality of engaging tabs include at least one first tab hingedly connected to the main panel by a straight fold line and at least one second tab partially separated from the main panel by a non-straight cut. - Receptive device. According to clause 8,
wherein the plurality of engaging tabs includes one or more third tabs,
The third tab is formed from the main panel and is integral with a side panel hingedly connected to the main panel. According to clause 8,
Wherein each of the plurality of engaging tabs is substantially trapezoidal in shape. According to clause 8,
A side edge of each of the plurality of engaging tabs abuts a side edge of an adjacent one of the plurality of engaging tabs. According to clause 8,
A free end edge of each of the plurality of engaging tabs provides an engaging edge for engaging an item. According to clause 9,
wherein the one or more second tabs include a plurality of second tabs disposed substantially on a portion of the perimeter of the receiving hole opposite a side panel from which the third tab extends. According to clause 8,
and wherein the one or more second tabs are defined in part by one or more “T” shaped cut lines. According to clause 8,
and wherein the one or more second tabs are defined in part by one or more “L” shaped cut lines. According to clause 8,
and wherein the one or more second tabs are defined in part by one or more “J” shaped cut lines. According to clause 8,
and wherein the one or more second tabs are defined in part by one or more cut lines having a first radial cut line portion and a second circumferential cut line portion. According to clause 17,
wherein the first radial cut line portion extends along a conceptual radial line extending from a center of the article top-receiving device. According to clause 17,
The second circumferential cut line portion is straight. According to clause 17,
wherein the second circumferential cut line portion includes at least a portion perpendicular to the first radial cut line portion. According to clause 17,
wherein the one or more second tabs comprise a plurality of second tabs, and the first radial cut line portions define a conceptual circle. According to clause 21,
the outermost ends of the first radial cut line portions lie on the conceptual circle, the conceptual circle having a center disposed at an intersection between notional extensions of two or more first radial cut line portions - Receiving device. According to clause 21,
The second circumferential cut line portion is tangent to the notional circle and includes a distal end disposed outside the notional circle. According to clause 21,
The article top-receiving device wherein the non-straight cut is disposed inside the conceptual circle. According to clause 23,
A bridging connection is formed between the distal end of the non-straight cut portion and the distal end of the adjacent second circumferential cut line portion. According to clause 21,
The outermost end of the radial cut line defining the one or more first tabs is disposed outside the conceptual circle. According to clause 21,
The outermost end of the radial cut line defining the one or more third tabs is disposed outside the conceptual circle. According to clause 21,
The straight fold line of the one or more first tabs is disposed outside the conceptual circle. According to clause 21,
wherein the straight fold line of the one or more first tabs includes a straight cut that partially separates the one or more first tabs from the main panel. According to clause 29,
and wherein the straight cut portion of the one or more first tabs is disposed outside the conceptual circle. According to clause 8,
wherein the straight fold line of the one or more first tabs includes a straight cut that partially separates the one or more first tabs from the main panel. A method of forming two or more article carriers from a plurality of connected blanks, comprising:
The plurality of connected blanks each includes two or more blanks forming an article carrier, each blank including an engaging panel having one or more article-receiving devices and one or more side panels hingedly connected to the engaging panel. And
A side panel of a first blank among the two or more blanks is breakably connected to a side panel of a second blank among the two or more blanks by one or more breakable connection parts,
The above method is:
forming a group of articles;
applying the connected plurality of blanks to the article group;
pressing the plurality of connected blanks around ends of articles forming the group of articles;
folding the side panels of the first and second blanks relative to the hinged engagement panel, wherein in response to folding the side panels, a breakable connection between the side panels of the first and second blanks is provided. Automatically disconnected stage; and
A method of forming an article carrier comprising receiving an article in each of the one or more article-receiving devices such that two or more separate article carriers are formed. According to clause 32,
Each of the articles includes an upper portion having an end diameter, a body having a body diameter, and a shoulder portion disposed between the body and the upper portion,
The body diameter is larger than the end diameter so that when two articles are placed side by side, a space exists in the area between the shoulder portions of the articles,
The method includes displacing the side panels of the first and second blanks into the space, the displacement facilitating separation of the first blank from the second blank. An article carrier of the upper engaging type comprising an engaging panel having one or more article-receiving devices and one or more side panels, wherein the one or more article-receiving devices are formed from the engaging panels, and the one or more side panels are formed from the engaging panels. An article carrier of the top engaging type, comprising a breakable connection cut along an edge of said at least one side panel opposite the hinged connection with said article carrier. According to clause 34,
wherein the one or more side panels include tabs formed from the engaging panels, the tabs blocking a hinged connection between the one or more side panels and the engaging panels.