WO2014134591A1

WO2014134591A1 - Carton and carton blank

Info

Publication number: WO2014134591A1
Application number: PCT/US2014/019749
Authority: WO
Inventors: Brandon L. RAMSUER
Original assignee: Meadwestvaco Packaging Systems LLC
Current assignee: WestRock Packaging Systems LLC
Priority date: 2013-03-01
Filing date: 2014-03-01
Publication date: 2014-09-04
Anticipated expiration: 2015-09-01
Also published as: AU2013203393A1

Abstract

A carton (90) includes a top panel (16), a first side panel (14) and a slot handle (H) formed in the top panel (16) and the first side panel (14). The slot handle (H) includes a line of separation (41) extending transversely across the top panel (16). The slot handle (H) includes a first lifting edge defined by a first fold line spaced from the line of separation (41). The first lifting edge and the line of separation (41) define a first cushioning flap (40a), wherein the line of separation (41) and the first fold line (42a) extend into and terminate in the first side panel (14). A first arcuate cut line (54a), having a first end, is disposed such that the first arcuate cutline (54a) and the first fold line (42a) are substantially contiguous. The first arcuate cutline (54a) defines a first portion (70) of the first side panel (14) which is displaceable outwardly of the carton (90).

Description

CARTON AND CARTON BLANK

REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 61/771530, filed on March 1 , 2013, which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to a carton and to a blank for forming a carton more specifically, but not exclusively, to a carton having a handle structure formed from the walls of the carton.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

In the field of packaging it is often required to provide consumers with a package comprising multiple primary product containers. Such multi-packs are desirable for shipping and distribution and for display of promotional information. For cost and environmental considerations, such cartons or carriers need to be formed from as little material as possible and cause as little wastage in the materials from which they are formed as possible. Another consideration is the strength of the packaging and its suitability for holding and transporting large weights of articles. It is known to form slot handles in cartons. In slot handles, a cut or perforation is made across the carton, in line with the height of an article and positioned close to a gap between adjacent articles. As such, slot handles are typically advantageous because no additional material other than that already present in the carton structure is required to form them. The present invention seeks to provide an improvement in the field of slot handles by providing a slot-handle arrangement that withstands the stresses placed upon the carton, when the handle is in use, by controlling or directing the stresses the risk of tearing or shearing of the material from which the carton is formed is reduced. SUMMARY OF INVENTION

The present invention seeks to overcome or at least mitigate the problems of the prior art.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a carton comprising a top panel and a first side panel and comprising a slot handle formed in the top panel and the first side panel, the slot handle comprising a line of separation extending at least substantially transversely across the top panel of the carton, the slot handle comprising a first lifting edge that is spaced from the line of separation, the first lifting edge being defined by a first fold line spaced apart from the line of separation, the first lifting edge and the line of separation defining at least in part a first cushioning flap, wherein the line of separation and the first fold line extend into and terminate in the first side panel, the slot handle further comprising a first stress relief mechanism provided in the first side panel, the first stress relief mechanism comprising a first arcuate cut line having a first end disposed adjacent to a terminal end of the first fold line such that the first arcuate outline and the first fold line are substantially contiguous, the first arcuate outline defines a first portion of the first side panel that is displaceable outwardly of the carton when the slot handle is in use. Optionally, the first portion of the first side panel that is displaceable may have a substantially circular cut edge.

Optionally, the first side panel comprises a further cutline disposed adjacent to a terminal end of the line of separation, the further cutline being arranged, at least in part, substantially perpendicularly to the line of separation, wherein the further cutline comprises a terminal end disposed upon the first arcuate cutline distal from the first end thereof.

Optionally, the slot handle comprises a second lifting edge that is spaced from the line of separation, the second lifting edge being defined by a second fold line spaced apart from the line of separation, the second lifting edge and the line of separation defining at least in part a second cushioning flap disposed on an opposite side of the line of separation to the first cushioning flap, wherein the line of separation and the second fold line extend into and terminate in the first side panel, the slot handle further comprising a second stress relief mechanism provided in the first side panel, the second stress relief mechanism comprising a second arcuate cut line, having a first end disposed adjacent to a terminal end of the second fold line such that the second arcuate cutline and the second fold line are substantially contiguous, the second arcuate cutline defining a second portion of the first side panel which is displaceable outwardly of the carton when the slot handle is in use.

In some embodiments, the further cutline comprises a second terminal end disposed upon the second arcuate cutline distal from the first end thereof such that the further cutline extends between the first and second arcuate outlines. Optionally, the first side panel comprises a first arcuate fold line disposed in spaced apart relationship with the first fold line, and disposed on an opposite side of the first fold line relative to the side of the first fold line on which the line of separation is disposed. Optionally, the first arcuate fold line is disposed in closer proximity to an intersection between the top panel and the first side panel than the proximity of the terminal end of the first fold line to said intersection.

Additionally or alternatively, the first arcuate fold line is disposed in closer proximity to an intersection between the top panel and the first side panel than the proximity of either of the terminal ends of the first arcuate cutline to said intersection.

In some embodiments, the first side panel comprises a second arcuate fold line disposed in spaced apart relationship with the second fold line and disposed on an opposite side of the second fold line relative to the side of the second fold line on which the line of separation is disposed.

Optionally, the second arcuate fold line is disposed in closer proximity to the intersection between the top panel and the first side panel than the proximity of the terminal end of the second fold line to the intersection.

Additionally or alternatively, the second arcuate fold line is disposed in closer proximity to the intersection between the top panel and the first side panel than the proximity of either of the terminal ends of the second arcuate cutline to the intersection.

In some embodiments, the carton comprises a second side panel, the slot handle is formed in part in the second side panel and, the line of separation extends into the second side panel of the carton, wherein the line of separation and the first fold line extend into and terminate in the second side panel, the slot handle further comprises a third stress relief mechanism provided in the second side panel, the third stress relief mechanism comprising a third arcuate cutline, having a first end disposed adjacent to a second terminal end of the first fold line such that the third arcuate cutline and the first fold line are substantially contiguous, the third arcuate cutline defining a first portion of the second side panel which is displaceable outwardly of the carton when the slot handle is in use. Optionally, the second side panel comprises a second further outline disposed adjacent to the second terminal end of the line of separation, the second further outline being arranged, at least in part, substantially perpendicularly to the line of separation, wherein the second further outline comprises a terminal end disposed upon the third arcuate outline distal from the first end thereof.

Optionally, the second fold line extends into and terminates in the second side panel and the slot handle further comprises a fourth stress relief mechanism provided in the second side panel, the fourth stress relief mechanism comprises a fourth arcuate outline, having a first end disposed adjacent to a second terminal end of the second fold line such that the fourth arcuate outline and the second fold line are substantially contiguous, the fourth arcuate outline defining a second portion of the second side panel which is displaceable outwardly of the carton when the slot handle is in use.

In some embodiments, the second further outline comprises a second terminal end disposed upon the fourth arcuate outline distal from the first end thereof such that the second further outline extends between the third and fourth arcuate outlines. Optionally, the second side panel comprises a third arcuate fold line disposed in spaced apart relationship with the first fold line and disposed on an opposite side of the first fold line relative to the side of the first fold line on which the line of separation is disposed.

Optionally, the third arcuate fold line is disposed in closer proximity to the intersection between the top panel and the second side panel than the proximity of the terminal end of the third fold line to the intersection.

Additionally or alternatively, the third arcuate fold line is disposed in closer proximity to the intersection between the top panel and the second side panel than the proximity of either of the terminal ends of the third arcuate outline to the intersection.

In some embodiments, the second side panel comprises a fourth arcuate fold line disposed in spaced apart relationship with the second fold line, and disposed on an opposite side of the second fold line relative to the side of the second fold line on which the line of separation is disposed.

Optionally, the fourth arcuate fold line is disposed in closer proximity to the intersection between the top panel and the second side panel than the proximity of the terminal end of the second fold line to the intersection.

Additionally or alternatively, the fourth arcuate fold line is disposed in closer proximity to the intersection between the top panel and the second side panel than the proximity of either of the terminal ends of the fourth arcuate outline to the intersection.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a package comprising two or more articles and a carton comprising a top panel and a first side panel, the two or more articles each having a tubular axis, the two or more articles being orientated within the carton such that tubular axis of the two or more articles extends perpendicularly from the first side panel, the carton comprising a slot handle formed in the top panel and the first side panel, the slot handle comprising a line of separation extending at least substantially transversely across the top panel of the carton, the slot handle comprising a first lifting edge that is spaced from the line of separation, the first lifting edge being defined by a first fold line spaced apart from the line of separation, the first lifting edge and the line of separation defining at least in part a first cushioning flap, the first cushioning flap being foldable inwardly of the carton into a void disposed between an adjacent pair of the two or more articles, wherein the line of separation and the first fold line extend into and terminate in the first side panel, the slot handle further comprising a first stress relief mechanism provided in the first side panel, the first stress relief mechanism comprising a first arcuate outline having a first end disposed adjacent to a terminal end of the first fold line such that the first arcuate outline and the first fold line are substantially contiguous, the first arcuate outline defining a first portion of the first side panel which is displaceable outwardly of the carton when the slot handle is in use. Optionally, the first arcuate outline comprises a second end which is arranged to terminate in the first side panel at a location that is aligned with a peripheral edge of an end of one of the articles. Optionally, the first side panel comprises a first arcuate fold line disposed in spaced apart relationship with the first fold line and disposed on an opposite side of the first fold line relative to the side of the first fold line on which the line of separation is disposed, the first arcuate fold line being arranged to follow, at least in part, a peripheral edge of an end of one of the articles.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided a blank for forming a carton, the blank comprising a plurality of main panels including a top panel and a first side panel and the blank comprising a slot handle formed in the top panel and the first side panel, the slot handle comprising a line of separation extending at least substantially transversely across the top panel of the carton, a first fold line extending at least substantially transversely across the top panel of the carton and being spaced apart from the line of separation, the first fold line and the line of separation defining, at least in part, a first cushioning flap, wherein in use the first fold line defines a first lifting edge of the slot handle, and wherein the line of separation and the first fold line extend into and terminate in the first side panel, the slot handle further comprising a first stress relief mechanism provided in the first side panel, the first stress relief mechanism comprising a first arcuate cutline, having a first end disposed adjacent to a terminal end of the first fold line such that the first arcuate cutline and the first fold line are substantially contiguous, the first arcuate cutline defining a first portion of the first side panel which is displaceable outwardly of the carton when the slot handle is in use.

Within the scope of this application it is envisaged that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings may be taken independently or in any combination thereof. For example, features described in connection with one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments unless there is incompatibility of features.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

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

FIGURE 1 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carton according to a first embodiment of the invention;

FIGURE 2 is an enlarged plan view from above of a portion of the blank of Figure 1 ; FIGURE 3 is a perspective view from above of carton formed from the blank of Figure 1 ; FIGURE 4 is an enlarged plan view from above of a portion of the carton of Figure 3; FIGURE 5 is an enlarged plan view from above of a portion of the carton of Figure 3 showing a carrying handle in a deployed state; and

FIGURE 6 is an enlarged plan view from above of a portion of the carton of Figure 3 showing a carrying handle in a deployed state.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS OF THE PRESENT INVENTION

Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of the package, blanks and cartons are disclosed herein. It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the way in which certain aspects of the invention can be implemented and do not represent an exhaustive list of all of the ways the invention may be embodied. As used herein, the word "exemplary" is used expansively to refer to embodiments that serve as illustrations, specimens, models, or patterns. Indeed, it will be understood that the packages, blanks and cartons described herein may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The Figures are not necessarily to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minimised to show details of particular components. Well-known components, materials or methods are not necessarily described in great detail in order to avoid obscuring the present disclosure. Any specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the invention. Referring to Figure 1 , there is shown a plan view of a blank 10 for forming a carton 90 as illustrated in Figure 3 which carton 90 is capable of accepting one or more primary products, such as, but not limited to, bottles or cans, hereinafter referred to as articles.

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

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

In the exemplary embodiment, the blank 10 is configured to form the carton 90 or carrier for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles. For example, the arrangement is an array or matrix including rows and columns such as a 3 x 5 arrangement of cans. The blank 10 can be alternatively configured to form a carrier for packaging other articles and/or different arrangements of articles. Referring again to Figure 1 , there is shown a blank 10 for forming the carton 90, which optionally is of the fully enclosed, end-loading type. It will be recognised that the carrying handle arrangement described and illustrated here, in the context of such a carton 90, should not be construed as limiting the carrying handle arrangement to only that application and it is specifically envisaged that the carrying handle arrangement described and illustrated herein may be applied to other suitable carton types and configurations.

The blank 10 comprises an interconnected series of main panels including: first bottom panel 12, first side panel 14, top panel 16, second side panel 18 and second bottom panel 20. The main panels are hinged together one to the next in series by longitudinally extending fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19. The main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20 define a tubular structure having a tubular axis. The ends of the carton 90 are at least partially closed by composite end wall structures that are formed by a series of end closure panels hinged to the main panels. These end closure panels include: first bottom end closure panels 22a, 22b, hinged along transverse fold lines 21 , 23 to opposite ends of the first bottom panel 12; first side end closure panels 24a, 24b hinged along transverse fold lines 21 , 23 to opposite ends of the first side panel 14; top end closure panels 26a, 26b hinged along transverse fold lines 21 , 23 to opposite ends of the top panel 16; second side end closure panels 28a, 28b hinged along transverse fold lines 21 , 23 to opposite ends of the second side panel 18; and second bottom end closure panels 30a, 30b hinged along transverse fold lines 21 , 23 to opposite ends of the second bottom panel 20. The blank 10 comprises a slot handle H. In Figure 2, an enlarged view of the slot handle H is shown wherein various elements of the slot handle H have been numbered. A line of separation 41 defines the centre of the slot handle H. Line of separation 41 extends across the top panel 16 transversely with respect to the tubular axis. Optionally, but nevertheless optionally, the slot handle H is disposed centrally of the top panel 16 so as to bisect the top panel 16. The line of separation 41 is positioned such that when the blank 10 is formed into a carton 90 (see Figure 3) the line of separation 41 is formed above a gap between two adjacent articles 'C. In other envisaged arrangements, the line of separation may have an off-centre position. For example, in an arrangement where two slot handles H are provided, the line of separation 41 of each slot handle H may be off-centre.

Referring now to Figure 2, it can be seen that the line of separation 41 extends into each of the adjacent first and second side panels 14, 18. In other embodiments, the slot handle H may extend into only one of the adjacent first and second side panels 14, 18. The line of separation 41 is optionally a perforate cut line comprising one or more or a series of connecting nick portions. Optionally four connecting nick portions are provided in the top panel 16 along the line of separation 41 ; one nick portion is provided along the line of separation 41 in the first side panel 14; one nick portion is provided along the line of separation 41 in the second side panel 18.

A pair of fold lines 42a, 42b is provided within the top panel 16, the fold lines 42a, 42b of the pair of fold lines 42a, 42b are disposed on opposite sides of the line of separation 41 and are spaced apart therefrom. The pair of fold lines 42a, 42b comprises a first fold line 42a and a second fold line 42b. The first and second fold lines 42a, 42b each define a lifting edge of the slot handle H. Optionally, the first and second fold lines 42a, 42b are arcuate in shape, and are arranged to converge towards each other at each end thereof. A cushioning handle flap 40a is formed by the region of the top panel 16 disposed between the first fold line 40a and the line of separation 41. A second cushioning flap 40b is formed, likewise, by the region of the top panel 16 disposed between the second fold line 42b and the line of separation 41. Optionally, the width of the cushioning flaps 40a, 40b is controlled such that when folded beneath the plane of the top panel 16, the cushioning flaps 40a, 40b can fold within a gap between the top panel 16 and the two adjacent articles 'C disposed immediately below the top panel 16. Optionally, the cushioning flaps 40a, 40b can fold at least partially underneath the top panel 16 (see Figures 5 and 6).

Within the top panel 16 and in the region of each end of each cushioning flap 40a, 40b, optional gussets 44a/44b, 46a/46b, 60a/60b are formed by fold lines 43a, 43b, 47a, 47b and 45a, 45b, 49a, 49b respectively. Fold lines 43a, 43b, 47a, 47b are arranged to form a "cross" shape, fold line 43a being co-linear with fold line 47b, and fold line 43b being co-linear with fold line 47a. Fold lines 45a, 45b, 49a, 49b are arranged to form a "cross" shape, fold line 45a being co-linear with fold line 49b, and fold line 45b being co-linear with fold line 49a. Optionally, the fold lines 43a, 43b, 47a, 47b and 45a, 45b, 49a, 49b are disposed at least substantially at 90° relative to one another. Inner gusset panels 44a, 44b, 46a, 46b are spaced further from the fold lines 15, 17 (which fold lines 15, 17 define an intersection between the top panel 16 and the adjacent first and second side panels 14, 18 respectively) than the outer gusset panels 60a, 60b, 62a, 62b. Inner gusset panels 44a, 44b, 46a, 46b are defined by sections of the fold lines 40a, 40b; and by fold lines 43a, 47a; 43b, 47b; 45a, 49a; and 45b, 49b. Outer gusset panels 60a, 60b, 62a, 62b are defined by sections of the longitudinally extending fold lines 15, 17; by fold lines 43a, 43b, 45a, 45b; and by the line of separation 41 . The inner gusset panels 44a, 44b, 46a, 46b and the outer gusset panels 60a, 60b, 62a, 62b are substantially triangular in shape.

The inner gusset panel 44a and the outer gusset panel 60a, couple the cushioning flap 40a to a foldable tab 64a struck from the first side panel 14.

The inner gusset panel 44b and the outer gusset panel 60b, couple the cushioning flap 40b to a foldable tab 64b struck from the first side panel 14. The inner gusset panel 46a and the outer gusset panel 62a, couple the cushioning flap 40a to a foldable tab 66a struck from the second side panel 18.

The inner gusset panel 46b and the outer gusset panel 62b, couple the cushioning flap 40b to a foldable tab 66b struck from the second side panel 18.

The inner gusset panels 44a, 44b, 46a, 46b, the outer gusset panels 60a, 60b, 62a, 62b and foldable tabs 64a, 64b, 66a, 66b facilitate transfer of the load stress through the first and second side panels 14, 18 and provide a reinforcing layer of material at the lifting edge.

At each end of the slot handle H, a stress relief mechanism is provided which is tailored and configured to mitigate against stress build up or the formation of localised stress points in the structure of carton 90 when the carton 90 is carried by the slot handle H. The stress relief mechanisms minimise, control, transfer or re-direct stresses in the carton 90 to reduce the likelihood of tearing or shearing of the material from which the carton 90 is formed. The stress relief mechanisms (also referred to as relief cuts) at each end of the slot-handle H are optionally identical and therefore only one will be described, it being understood that the details provided regarding one end of the slot handle H are also true in respect of the other end of the slot handle H.

The end of the first fold line 42a that is disposed in the first side panel 14 terminates in or is substantially contiguous with a first arcuate cut line 50a. The end of the second fold line 42b that is disposed in the first side panel 14 terminates in or is substantially contiguous with a second arcuate cut line 50b. The first and second arcuate cut lines 50a, 50b are substantially "J"- shaped or hook-shaped. The first and second arcuate cut lines 50a, 50b are also referred to hereinafter as "J"-shaped or hook-shaped cut lines 50a, 50b, although other shapes are envisaged. The "J"-shaped or hook-shaped cut line 50b is arranged to be a mirror image (that is to say it has mirror symmetry along line of separation 41 ) of "J"-shaped or hook-shaped cut line 50a.

The first and second arcuate cut lines 50a, 50b each have a first end disposed adjacent to a respective one of terminal ends of the first or second fold lines 42a, 42b such that the terminal end of the first arcuate cutline 50a and the first fold line 42a are substantially contiguous and the terminal end of the second arcuate cutline 50b and the second fold line 42b are substantially contiguous. The term "substantially contiguous" as used herein refers to any one of the arrangements including, but not being limited to, Arrangement 1 wherein the terminal end of the first or second arcuate cutline 50a/50b is in contact with, or attached to, the respective one of the first and second fold lines 42a, 42b; Arrangement 2 wherein the terminal end of the first or second arcuate cutline 50a/50b is separated or spaced from the respective one of the first and second fold lines 42a, 42b by a foldable area which has no visible fold line but can form a crease or fold line in response to folding of the respective one of the cushioning flaps 40a and 40b, the crease or fold line interconnecting the first or second arcuate cutline 50a/50b with the respective one of the first and second fold lines 42a, 42b; Arrangement 3 wherein the terminal end of the first or second arcuate cutline 50a/50b is separated or spaced from the respective one of the first and second fold lines 42a, 42b by a nick or breakable element; and Arrangement 4 wherein the terminal end of the first or second arcuate cutline 50a/50b is connected to, or joined with, the respective one of the first and second fold lines 42a, 42b by one or more score lines. Figure 4 illustrates the above Arrangement 2. The first arcuate cutline 50a defines a first portion 70a (see Figures 4-6) of the first side panel 14 which is displaceable or displaced outwardly of the carton 90 when the slot handle H is in use and more specifically when the cushioning handle flaps 40a is folded inward of the carton and the folded edge defined by fold line 42a is grasped by the user U to lift the carton. The second arcuate outline 50b defines a second portion 70b of the first side panel 14 which is displaceable or displaced outwardly of the carton 90 when the slot handle H is in use and more specifically when the cushioning handle flaps 40b is folded inward of the carton and the folded edge defined by fold line 42b is grasped by the user U to lift the carton. Optionally, the first and second displaceable portions 70a, 70b have a partially, generally circular shape that is determined by the degree of return of the first and second arcuate outlines 50a, 50b. The term "displaceable outwardly" or "displaced outwardly" as used herein refers to a tendency of the respective element (i.e., the first or second portion 70a/70b) to move out of the plane of the first side panel 14 wherein at least a part of the first or second portion 70a/70b is disposed outside the carton. Figure 5 best illustrates the condition wherein the second portion 70b is displaced outwardly of the carton 90 when the cushioning handle flap 40b is folded inward of the carton and the folded edge defined by fold line 42b is grasped by the user U to lift the carton.

An optional further outline 52a extends between the "J"-shaped or hook-shaped cut line 50a and the "J"-shaped or hook-shaped cut line 50b. Optionally, the further outline 52a is arcuate in shape, and is arranged such that the terminal ends of the further outline 52a are disposed in closer proximity to the fold line 15 (intersection) compared to the proximity of a central section of the further cut line 52a to the fold line 15. The further cut line 52a is optionally also disposed at a terminal end of the line of separation 41 . Optionally, the line of separation 41 meets the further cut line 52a generally at the centre thereof. The further cut line 52a is distal from the junctions between the first and second fold lines 42a, 42b and the respective "J"-shaped or hook-shaped cut lines 50a, 50b. In this way, when the blank 10 is set up into a carton 90, the further cut line 52a is located below the junctions between the first and second fold lines 42a, 42b and the respective first and second arcuate outlines 50a, 50b. As such, the further outline 52a spans between the first and second arcuate outlines 50a, 50b and blocks the end of the line of separation 41.

Optionally, the "J"-shaped or hook-shaped cut line 72c may be a full-depth cut line that is not interrupted by any additional connecting nick portions. Optional arcuate, or curvilinear, fold or crease lines 54a, 54b, are provided in the first side panel 14 on opposing sides of the line of separation 41. Optional arcuate, or curvilinear, fold or crease lines 54c, 54d, are provided in the second side panel 18 on opposing side of the line of separation 41. Optionally, the fold lines 54a, 54b, 54c, 54d may be perforate lines, weakened lines, an interrupted series of half-depth cuts and/or any other weakened control line. The arcuate fold lines 54a, 54b, 54c, 54d may have a radius of curvature that is similar to the radius of curvature of a cylindrical article, such as a can.

Turning to the construction of the carton 90 as illustrated in Figures 3 to 6 it is envisaged that the carton 90 can be formed by a series of sequential folding operations in a straight line machine so that the carton 90 is not required to be rotated or inverted to complete its construction. The folding process is not limited to that described below and may be altered according to particular manufacturing requirements. First and second bottom panels 12, 20 are affixed together, optionally by adhesive such as hot melt glue or other adhesive treatment or preparation. Other affixing means such as staples, mechanical locking mechanisms may alternatively be employed. Optionally the adhesive may be applied to an outside surface of second bottom panel 20. To achieve this, the blank 10 may first be folded about fold line 17 to bring the second side panel 18 and second bottom panel 20 into face contacting overlapping relationship with the top panel 16 and first side panel 14 respectively. First bottom panel 12 then may be folded about fold line 13 to bring it into at least partial overlapping relationship with the second bottom panel 20 such that the first bottom panel 12 can become affixed to the second bottom panel 20 to form a composite bottom panel 12/20. In this flat-folded part formed condition the blank 10 may be transported to a converting plant, whereat it will be opened into a tubular structure having two open ends. Articles, such as cans 'C may by loaded though one or both ends of the tubular structure. Optionally, for the ease of automation, the open ended tubular carton 90 will be oriented with either the first or second side panel 14, 18 lowermost or bottommost so that the cans 'C can be pushed into the carton 90 by sliding the cans 'C along their circular bases.

Once the carton 90 is fully loaded, the composite end walls 22a/24a/26a/28a/30a, 22b/24b/26b/28b/30b are formed to close the ends of the carton 90 and secure the cans 'C inside. The composite end walls 22a/24a/26a/28a/30a, 22b/24b/26b/28b/30b are each formed by folding and affixing the end closure panels 22a, 24a, 26a, 28a, 30a; and 22b, 24b, 26b, 28b, 30b together. The completed carton 90 may then be oriented such that the bottom panel 12/20 is lower most and the top panel 16 is uppermost. In this orientation the carton 90 can be carried by utilising the slot handle H (see Figure 4). To deploy the handle H, a user U must first break the line of separation 41. It is envisaged that the line of separation 41 could be a cut line; however, alternatively, the line of separation 41 may be a frangible line that is not broken until an end user is ready to deploy the handle. In this way, the integrity of the top panel 16 is preserved to prevent the ingress of dust and dirt into the carton 90 and so that the package presented to the customer appears new and not tampered with.

Once the line of separation 41 is broken, a user can fold back one or both of the cushioning handle flaps 40a, 40b inwardly of the carton. One or both of the handle flaps 40a, 40b may be folded more than 90°, optionally approximately 180°, such that one or both of the handle flaps 40a, 40b is/are disposed beneath the top panel 16. Either of the folded edges defined by fold lines 42a, 42b can be grasped by the user U and used as a lifting edge for grasping and carrying the carton (see Figure 5). When the carrying handle H is in use the carton 90 deforms in a controlled manner due to the configuration of the slot-handle H and relief components. The phrase "the carrying handle H is in use" as used herein refers to the condition wherein the line of separation 41 is broken, one or both of the cushioning handle flaps 40a, 40b are folded inward of the carton and either one of the folded edges defined by fold lines 42a, 42b is grasped by the user U to lift the carton.

Referring to Figure 6, it can be seen that first portion 70 of the first side panel 14 has been displaced outwardly of the carton 90 when the carton 90 has been picked up. The "J"-shaped or hook-shaped cut lines 50a allow the material from which the carton 90 is formed to flex and twist in the region of first portion 70, this disperses the stresses placed upon the carton 90 when the carrying handle H is employed. The "J"-shaped or hook-shaped cut lines 50a change the direction of the shear forces which the carton 90 is subject to when carried by the carrying handle H. One possible advantage of the invention is that for a given carton load the carton 90 may be constructed from a material having a lower caliper (thickness) than would otherwise be possible. A further consequence of the provision of the "J"-shaped or hook-shaped cut lines 50a, 50b to allow displacement of first portion 70 or second portion of the first side panel 14 is that it may region of the first side panel 14 to fold about the arcuate fold line 54a, 54b to a greater extent than it otherwise could deform if that portion 70 of the first panel 14 were not displaceable relative the adjacent region of the first side panel 14.

Again referring to Figure 6, it can be seen that the first arcuate outline 50a comprises a second end; optionally, the second end of the first arcuate outline 50a is arranged to terminate in the first side panel 14 so as to be disposed at a point of contact between a peripheral edge of an end of one of the articles and the first side panel 14 when the carrying handle H is in use.

The second arcuate outline 50b comprises a second end; optionally, the second end of the second arcuate outline 50b is arranged to terminate in the first side panel 14 so as to be disposed at a point of contact between a peripheral edge of an end of one of the articles and the first side panel 14 when the carrying handle H is in use.

The first arcuate fold line 54a is disposed in a spaced apart relationship with the first fold line 42a, and is disposed on an opposing side of the first fold line 42a to that which the line of separation 41 is disposed. Optionally, the first arcuate fold line 54a is disposed at a point of contact between a peripheral edge of an end of one of the articles C and optionally is arranged to follow, at least a portion of, peripheral edge of the end of said article.

The second arcuate fold line 54b is disposed in a spaced apart relationship with the second fold line 42b, and is disposed on an opposing side of the second fold line 42b to that which the line of separation 41 is disposed. Optionally, the second arcuate fold line 54b is disposed at a point of contact between a peripheral edge of an end of one of the articles 'C and optionally is arranged to follow, at least a portion of, peripheral edge of the end of said article.

In this way the first side panel 14 may fold or crease about a portion of an article 'C disposed adjacent to the slot handle H. In this way, the article 'C can act as a support to the carton 90. In those embodiments in which the carrying handle extends into both the first and second side panels 14, 18 the article 'C acts as a brace member between the first and second side panels 14, 18. As can be seen in Figure 5, the top panel 16 in the region of the lifted edge 42b bows upwardly and the first and second side panels 14, 18 deform inwardly onto, about and in partial abutment with the ends of one or more articles 'C To control the deformation of the side panels 14, 18, the first, second, third and fourth arcuate fold lines 54a, 54b, 54c, 54d are curved in a similar manner to the curve of the ends of articles and are located close to and in alignment with the ends of the articles such that the side walls 14, 18 in the region of the arcuate fold lines 54a, 54b, 54c, 54d bend about the articles 'C.

Furthermore, when the second end of the first or second arcuate outline 50a, 50b is arranged to terminate in the first side panel 14 at a point of contact between a peripheral edge of an end of one of the articles and the first side panel 14, the article 'C provides support to the carton 90 so as to reduce the likelihood of a tear initiating from second end of the first or second arcuate outline 50a, 50b.

It can be appreciated that various changes may be made within the scope of the present invention, for example, the size and shape of the panels and apertures may be adjusted to accommodate articles of differing size or shape.

It will be recognised that as used herein, directional references such as "top", "bottom", "front", "back", "end", "side", "inner", "outer", "upper" and "lower" do not necessarily limit the respective panels to such orientation, but may merely serve to distinguish these panels from one another.

As used herein, the terms "hinged connection" and "fold line" refer to all manner of lines that define hinge features of the blank, facilitate folding portions of the blank with respect to one another, or otherwise indicate optimal panel folding locations for the blank. A fold line is typically a scored line, an embossed line, or a debossed line. Any reference to hinged connection or fold line should not be construed as necessarily referring to a single fold line only; indeed it is envisaged that hinged connection can be formed from any one or more of the following, a short slit, a frangible line or a fold line without departing from the scope of the invention.

As used herein, the term "severance line" refers to all manner of lines that facilitate separating portions of the substrate from one another or that indicate optimal separation locations. Severance lines may be frangible or otherwise weakened lines, tear lines, cut lines, or slits.

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

Claims

1 . A carton comprising a top panel, a first side panel and a slot handle formed in the top panel and the first side panel, the slot handle comprising a line of separation extending at least substantially transversely across the top panel, and a first lifting edge that is spaced from the line of separation, the first lifting edge being defined by a first fold line spaced apart from the line of separation, the first lifting edge and the line of separation defining at least in part a first cushioning flap, wherein the line of separation and the first fold line are formed in the top panel and extend into and terminate in the first side panel, the slot handle further comprising a first stress relief mechanism provided in the first side panel, the first stress relief mechanism comprising a first arcuate cut line having a first end disposed adjacent to a terminal end of the first fold line such that the first arcuate cut line and the first fold line are substantially contiguous, the first arcuate outline defining a first portion of the first side panel that is displaceable outwardly of the carton when the first lifting edge is used for grasping and carrying the carton.

2. The carton according to claim 1 wherein the first side panel comprises a further outline disposed adjacent to a terminal end of the line of separation, the further outline being arranged, at least in part, substantially perpendicularly to the line of separation, and wherein the further outline comprises a terminal end disposed upon the first arcuate outline distal from the first end thereof.

3. The carton according to claim 1 or 2 wherein the slot handle further comprises a second lifting edge that is spaced from the line of separation, the second lifting edge being defined by a second fold line spaced apart from the line of separation, the second lifting edge and the line of separation defining at least in part a second cushioning flap disposed on an opposite side of the line of separation to the first cushioning flap, wherein the line of separation and the second fold line extend into and terminate in the first side panel, the slot handle further comprising a second stress relief mechanism provided in the first side panel, the second stress relief mechanism comprising a second arcuate outline having a first end disposed adjacent to a terminal end of the second fold line such that the second arcuate outline and the second fold line are substantially contiguous, the second arcuate outline defining a second portion of the first side panel which is displaceable outwardly of the carton when the second lifting edge is used for grasping and carrying the carton.

4. The carton according to claim 3, when dependent upon claim 2, wherein the further outline comprises a second terminal end disposed upon the second arcuate outline distal from the first end of the second arcuate outline such that the further outline extends between the first and second arcuate outlines.

5. The carton according to any of claims 1 to 4 wherein the first side panel comprises a first arcuate fold line disposed in spaced apart relationship with the first fold line, and disposed on an opposite side of the first fold line relative to a side of the first fold line on which the line of separation is disposed.

6. The carton according to claim 5 wherein the first arcuate fold line is disposed in closer proximity to an intersection between the top panel and the first side panel than the proximity of the terminal end of the first fold line to said intersection.

7. The carton according to claim 5 wherein the first arcuate fold line is disposed in closer proximity to an intersection between the top panel and the first side panel than the proximity of either of the terminal ends of the first arcuate outline to said intersection.

8. The carton according to any of claims 3 to 7 wherein the first side panel comprises a second arcuate fold line disposed in spaced apart relationship with the second fold line and disposed on an opposite side of the second fold line relative to a side of the second fold line on which the line of separation is disposed.

9. The carton according to any of claims 1 to 8 further comprising a second side panel, wherein the slot handle is formed in part in the second side panel and the line of separation extends into the second side panel of the carton, wherein the line of separation and the first fold line extend into and terminate in the second side panel, the slot handle further comprising a third stress relief mechanism provided in the second side panel, the third stress relief mechanism comprising a third arcuate outline, having a first end disposed adjacent to a second terminal end of the first fold line such that the third arcuate outline and the first fold line are substantially contiguous, the third arcuate outline defining a first portion of the second side panel which is displaceable outwardly of the carton when the first lifting edge is used for grasping and carrying the carton.

10. The carton according to claim 9 wherein the second side panel comprises a second further outline disposed adjacent to the second terminal end of the line of separation, the second further outline being arranged, at least in part, substantially perpendicularly to the line of separation, wherein the second further outline comprises a terminal end disposed upon the third arcuate outline distal from the first end of the third arcuate outline.

1 1. The carton according to either of claims 9 or 10 wherein the second fold line extends into and terminates in the second side panel and the slot handle further comprises a fourth stress relief mechanism provided in the second side panel, the fourth stress relief mechanism comprises a fourth arcuate cut line, having a first end disposed adjacent to a second terminal end of the second fold line such that the second terminal end of the fourth arcuate outline and the second fold line are substantially contiguous, the fourth arcuate outline defining a second portion of the second side panel which is displaceable outwardly of the carton when the slot handle is in use.

12. The carton according to claim 1 1 , when dependent upon claim 10, wherein the second further outline comprises a second terminal end disposed upon the fourth arcuate outline distal from the first end of the fourth arcuate outline such that the second further outline extends between the third and fourth arcuate outlines.

13. The carton according to any of claims 9 to 12 wherein the second side panel comprises a third arcuate fold line disposed in spaced apart relationship with the first fold line and disposed on an opposite side of the first fold line relative to a side of the first fold line on which the line of separation is disposed.

14. The carton according to claim 13 wherein the third arcuate fold line is disposed in closer proximity to the intersection between the top panel and the second side panel than the proximity of the terminal end of the third fold line to the intersection.

15. The carton according to claim 13 wherein the third arcuate fold line is disposed in closer proximity to the intersection between the top panel and the second side panel than the proximity of either of the terminal ends of the third arcuate outline to the intersection.

16. The carton according to any of claims 1 1 to 15 wherein the second side panel comprises a fourth arcuate fold line disposed in spaced apart relationship with the second fold line, and disposed on an opposite side of the second fold line relative to a side of the second fold line on which the line of separation is disposed.

17. The carton according to claim 1 wherein the first portion of the first side panel that is displaceable has a substantially circular cut-edge.

18. A package comprising two or more articles and a carton comprising a top panel and a first side panel, the two or more articles each having a tubular axis, the two or more articles being orientated within the carton such that tubular axis of the two or more articles extends perpendicularly from the first side panel, the carton comprising a slot handle formed in the top panel and the first side panel, the slot handle comprising a line of separation extending at least substantially transversely across the top panel of the carton, the slot handle comprising a first lifting edge that is spaced from the line of separation, the first lifting edge being defined by a first fold line spaced apart from the line of separation, the first lifting edge and the line of separation defining at least in part a first cushioning flap, the first cushioning flap being foldable inwardly of the carton into a void disposed between an adjacent pair of the two or more articles, wherein the line of separation and the first fold line extend into and terminate in the first side panel, the slot handle further comprising a first stress relief mechanism provided in the first side panel, the first stress relief mechanism comprising a first arcuate outline, having a first end disposed adjacent to a terminal end of the first fold line such that the first arcuate outline and the first fold line are substantially contiguous, the first arcuate outline defining a first portion of the first side panel which is displaceable outwardly of the carton when the first lifting edge is used for grasping and carrying the carton.

19. The package according to claim 18 wherein the first arcuate outline comprises a second end which is arranged to terminate in the first side panel at a location that is aligned with a peripheral edge of an end of one of the articles.

20. A blank for forming a carton, the blank comprising a plurality of main panels including a top panel and a first side panel and the blank comprising a slot handle formed in the top panel and the first side panel, the slot handle comprising a line of separation extending at least substantially transversely across the top panel of the carton, a first fold line extending at least substantially transversely across the top panel of the carton and being spaced apart from the line of separation, the first fold line and the line of separation defining, at least in part, a first cushioning flap, wherein in use the first fold line defines a first lifting edge of the slot handle, and wherein the line of separation and the first fold line extend into and terminate in the first side panel, the slot handle further comprising a first stress relief mechanism provided in the first side panel, the first stress relief mechanism comprising a first arcuate outline, having a first end disposed adjacent to a terminal end of the first fold line such that the first arcuate outline and the first fold line are substantially contiguous, the first arcuate outline defining a first portion of the first side panel which is displaceable outwardly of the carton when the first lifting edge is used for grasping and carrying the carton.