WO2016054466A1

WO2016054466A1 - Carton and carton blank

Info

Publication number: WO2016054466A1
Application number: PCT/US2015/053636
Authority: WO
Inventors: Caleb S. Loftin
Original assignee: Westrock Packaging Systems, Llc
Priority date: 2014-10-03
Filing date: 2015-10-02
Publication date: 2016-04-07
Also published as: TW201615501A; CN107000911B; CN107000911A

Abstract

A combination includes a carton for packaging articles and a carrying handle for engagement with two or more articles includes. The carton includes a top panel, base panel and opposed side wall panels coupling the base panel to the top panel. The top panel has an opening struck therefrom. The carrying handle includes at least a first strap. The first strap has a first article engaging aperture proximate its first end and a second article engaging aperture proximate its second end. The first strap has a central handle portion disposed between the first article engaging aperture and the second article engaging aperture. The first article engaging aperture is configured to engage a first article disposed at least in part below the top panel while the second article engaging aperture is configured to engage a second article disposed at least in part below the top panel.

Description

CARTON AND CARTON BLANK

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to a carton and to a blank for forming the carton more specifically, but not exclusively, to a carton having a carrying handle.

BACKGROUND

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 desirable to provide a carrying handle so that a consumer may transport the package from a retail outlet. It is desirable that the carrying handle is both comfortable to use and strong enough to bear the load of the package contents.

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

SUMMARY

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a combination of a carton for packaging a plurality of articles and a separate carrying handle for engaging two or more articles. The carton comprises a plurality of panels including a top panel, base panel and a pair of opposed side wall panels coupling the base panel to the top panel. The top panel comprises a first opening struck therefrom. The carrying handle comprises at least a first strap. The at least a first strap has a first article engaging aperture disposed proximate its first end and a second article engaging aperture disposed proximate its second end. The at least a first strap has a central handle portion disposed between the first article engaging aperture and the second article engaging aperture. The first article engaging aperture is configured to engage a first article disposed at least in part below the top panel while the second article engaging aperture is configured to engage a second article disposed at least in part below the top panel. The central handle portion is arranged to be grasped through the first opening.

Preferably, the carrying handle may further comprise a second strap. Preferably, the second strap may comprise a first article receiving aperture disposed proximate its first end and a second article receiving aperture disposed proximate its second end.

More preferably, the first article engaging aperture may be disposed in registry with the first article receiving aperture while the second article engaging aperture may be disposed in registry with the second article receiving aperture.

In some embodiments, the first article engaging aperture comprises a plurality of tabs for engaging below a projection provided upon the first article, and second article engaging aperture comprises a plurality of tabs for engaging below a projection provided upon the second article.

The first strap may be hinged to the second strap by at least one fold line. Alternatively, the first strap is separate from the second strap.

Preferably, the first strap is disposed in overlying relationship, at least in part, with the second strap.

In some embodiments, wherein the first strap and the second strap are arranged in a crossed configuration, a central portion of the first strap being disposed in overlying relationship with a central portion of the second strap.

In some embodiments, the first strap is arcuate in shape and the second strap is arcuate in shape, a central portion of the first strap being disposed in overlying relationship with a central portion of the second strap.

Preferably, the carton may further comprise a second top panel having a second opening struck therefrom, the second top panel being disposed in overlying relationship with the first top panel so as to form a two ply structure, the second opening being disposed in registry with the first opening so as to provide an access window in the two ply structure.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a package comprising: a carton having a plurality of panels including a top panel, base panel and a pair of opposed side wall panels coupling the base panel to the top panel, the top panel comprising an opening struck therefrom; a group of articles disposed in the carton; a carrying handle comprising at least a first strap; the at least a first strap having a first article engaging aperture disposed proximate its first end and a second article engaging aperture disposed proximate its second end, the at least a first strap having a central handle portion disposed between the first article engaging aperture and the second article engaging aperture, the first article engaging aperture being secured to a first article disposed at least in part below the top panel to anchor the first end within the carton; and the second article engaging aperture being secured to a second article disposed at least in part below the top panel to anchor the second end within the carton,

wherein the central handle portion is arranged to be grasped through the opening to form a grip of the carrying handle.

Preferably, the carrying handle may further comprise a second strap.

Preferably, the articles may be arranged in an array having one or more rows and one or more columns.

In some embodiments, the first strap may be engaged with a pair of articles disposed in the same row of articles.

In some embodiments, the first strap may be engaged with a pair of articles disposed in the same column of articles.

In some embodiments, the first strap may be engaged at its first end with a first article in first row or column and engaged at its second end with a second article in second, different, row or column.

Preferably, one or more rows or columns of articles may be disposed between the first row or column and the second row or column.

In some embodiments, the second strap may be engaged with a pair of articles disposed in the same row of articles.

In some embodiments, the second strap may be engaged with a pair of articles disposed in the same column of articles. In some embodiments, the first strap and the second strap may be engaged at their respective ends with a first article and engaged at their respective ends with a second article, the second article being disposed in the same row or column of articles as the first article.

In some embodiments, the second strap may be engaged at its first end with a first article in the first row or column and engaged at its second end with a second article in a second, different, row or column. Preferably, one or more rows or columns of articles may be disposed between the first row or column and the second row or column.

Preferably, the second strap may comprise a first article receiving aperture disposed proximate its first end and a second article receiving aperture disposed proximate its second end.

In some embodiments, the first article engaging aperture may comprise a plurality of tabs for engaging below a projection provided upon the first article, while the second article engaging aperture may comprise a plurality of tabs for engaging below a projection provided upon the second article.

Preferably, the first strap may be hinged to the second strap by at least one fold line. Alternatively, the first strap may be separate from the second strap.

Preferably, the first strap may be disposed in overlying relationship, at least in part, with the second strap.

In some embodiments, the first strap and the second strap may be arranged in a crossed configuration, a central portion of the first strap being disposed in overlying relationship with a central portion of the second strap. In some embodiments, the first strap may be arcuate in shape and the second strap may be arcuate in shape, a central portion of the first strap being disposed in overlying relationship with a central portion of the second strap.

Preferably, a central portion of the first strap may be disposed over one or more articles within the carton.

In some embodiments, the central portion of the first strap retains the one or more articles within the carton.

According to a third aspect of the present invention there is provided a combination of a first blank for forming a carton and a second blank for forming a carrying handle. The first blank comprises a plurality of panels including a top panel, base panel and a pair of side wall panels for coupling the base panel to the top panel. The top panel has an opening struck therefrom. The second blank comprises at least a first strap having a first article engaging aperture proximate its first end and a second article engaging aperture proximate its second end. The at least a first strap also has a central handle portion disposed between the first article engaging aperture and the second article engaging aperture. The first article engaging aperture is configured for engaging a first article while the second article engaging aperture is configured for engaging a second article. The central handle portion is arranged to be grasped through the opening when the first and second blanks are assembled together.

Within the scope of this application it is intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings may be 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;

Figure 2 is an enlarged plan view from above of a blank for forming a carton handle according to a first embodiment; Figure 3 is a perspective view from above of a carton formed from the blank of Figure 1 and a group of articles prior to loading in the carton;

Figure 4 is a perspective view from above of the carton formed from the blank of Figure 1 and a group of articles with a carton handle applied thereto prior to loading in the carton; Figure 5 is a perspective view from above of a portion of the carton formed from the blank of Figure 1 showing the carrying handle;

Figure 6 is a perspective view from above of the carton formed from the blank of Figure 1 showing the carrying handle in which the carton walls are transparent for illustrative purposes;

Figure 7 is a schematic illustration a carton handle according to a second embodiment and a group of; and

Figure 8 is a schematic illustration a carton handle according to a third embodiment and a group of.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

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.

Figure 1 shows a plan view of a first blank 10 capable of forming a carton 90, as shown in Figure 5, for primary products such as, but not limited to, bottles, hereinafter referred to as articles B. Figure 1 also shows a plan view of a second blank 70 capable of forming a carrying handle as shown in Figure 6 to be employed with the carton 90.

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

In the exemplary embodiment, the blanks are configured to form a carton or carrier for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles. In the illustrated embodiments the arrangement is a 3 x 4 matrix or array of twelve bottles. In other illustrated embodiments other arrangements may be employed. The blank can be alternatively configured to form a carrier for packaging other types, number and size of article and/or for packaging articles in a different arrangement or configuration.

The blank 10 comprises a plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 hinged one to the next in a linear series. The blank 10 comprises a first top panel 12 hinged to a first upper side panel 14 by hinged connection such as a fold line 13. The first upper side panel 14 is hinged to a first lower side panel 16 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 15. The first lower side panel 16 is hinged to a base panel 18 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 17. The base panel 18 is hinged to a second lower side panel 20 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 19. The second lower side panel 20 is hinged to a second upper side panel 22 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 21. The second upper side panel 22 is hinged to a second top panel 24 by a hinged connection a fold line 23.

The plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 of the blank 10 form an open ended tubular structure in a set-up condition.

Each of the ends of the tubular structure is at least partially closed by end closure panels. In the illustrated embodiment the ends of the tubular structure are fully closed by end closure panels 26a, 28a, 30a, 32a, 34a, 36a, 26b, 28b, 30b, 32b, 34b, 36b. End closure panels 26a, 28a, 30a, 32a, 34a, 36a are configured to close a first end of the tubular structure and end panels 26b, 28b, 30b, 32b, 34b, 36b are configured to close a second end of the tubular structure.

A first end closure panel 26a is hinged to a first end of first upper side panel 14 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 27a. A second end closure panel 28a is hinged to a first end of first lower side panel 16 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 29a. A third end closure panel 30a is hinged to a first end of base panel 18 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 31 a. A fourth end closure panel 32a is hinged to a first end of the second lower side panel 20 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 33a. A fifth end closure panel 34a is hinged to a first end of second upper side panel 22 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 35a. A sixth end closure panel 36a is hinged to a first end of second top panel 24 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 37a.

A seventh end closure panel 26b is hinged to a second end of first upper panel 14 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 27b. An eighth end closure panel 28b is hinged to a second end of the first lower side panel 16 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 29b. A ninth end closure panel 30b is hinged to a second end of base panel 18 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 31 b. A tenth end closure panel 32b is hinged to a second end of second lower side panel 20 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 33b. An eleventh end closure panel 34b is hinged to a second end of second upper side panel 22 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 35b. A twelfth end closure panel 36b is hinged to a second end of second top panel 24 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 37b.

The first end closure panel 26a is hinged in part to the second end closure panel 28a by fold line 15. The fourth end closure panel 32a is hinged in part to the fifth end closure panel 34a by fold line 21. The seventh end closure panel 26b is hinged in part to the eighth end closure panel 28b by fold line 15. The tenth end closure panel 32b is hinged in part to the eleventh end closure panel 34b by fold line 21.

The first end closure panel 26a, second end closure panel 28a, fourth end closure panel 32a, fifth end closure panel 34a, seventh end closure panel 26b, eighth end closure panel 28b, tenth end closure panel 32b and the eleventh end closure panel 34b each form a minor side end closure panel. The third end closure panel 30a and the ninth end closure panel 30b each form a major lower end closure panel. The sixth end closure panel 36a and the twelfth end closure panel 36b each form a major upper end closure panel.

The blank 10 comprises a first opening A1 struck from the first top panel 12. The first opening A1 is elliptical in shape and is preferably struck from the centre of the first top panel 12. The blank 10 comprises a second opening A2 struck from the second top panel 24. The second opening A2 is elliptical in shape and is preferably struck from the centre of the second top panel 24. The second opening A2 is arranged such that when the first top panel 12 and second top panel 24 are disposed in overlying relationship with each other, the second opening A2 is disposed in registry or alignment with the first opening A1.

Figure 1 also illustrates a second blank 70 for forming a carrying handle; the second blank 70 comprises a first strap 40a and a second strap 40b. In the illustrated embodiment the blank 70 is separately formed from the first blank 10, however in alternative embodiments the blank 70 may be formed as a unitary blank with blank 10 and be severably detachable therefrom.

Figure 2 shows an enlarged plan view of the second blank 70, the first strap 40a is formed as an elongate strap which is narrower in dimension at the centre than at each end. A first cushioning flap 42a is hinged to a first side edge of the first strap 40a by a hinged connection such as a fold line 41 a. A second cushioning flap 42b is hinged to a second side edge of the second strap 40a by a hinged connection such as a fold line 41 b.

The first strap 40 comprises a pair of article engaging apertures L, a first article engaging aperture L is disposed proximate a first end of the first strap 40a and a second article engaging aperture L is disposed proximate a second end of the first strap 40a. The second article engaging aperture L is substantially similar in construction to the first article engaging aperture L, and will be described by reference to the first article engaging aperture L.

The first article engaging aperture L comprises an aperture A4 struck from the first strap 40a. The first article engaging aperture L comprises a plurality of tabs 44, 46, 48. The illustrated embodiments comprise three tabs 44, 46, 48; however in alternative embodiments more or less tabs may be provided. The plurality of tabs 44, 46, 48 are disposed partially around the aperture A4. The plurality of tabs 44, 46, 48 are disposed in closer proximity to a first end of the first strap 40a than the aperture A4. A first tab 44 is hinged to the first handle strap 40a, by a first hinged connection; the first hinged connection is defined in part by a first cut line 45. A second tab 48 is hinged to the first strap 40a, by a second hinged connection; the second hinged connection is defined in part by a second cut line 49. A third tab 46 is provided between the first and second tabs 44, 48 and is separated from each of the first and second tabs 44, 48 by a respective one of a pair of cut lines. A third tab 46 is hinged to the first strap 40a, by a second hinged connection; the second hinged connection is defined in part by first terminal ends of each of the pair of cut lines. In alternative embodiments the hinged connections may comprise a fold line or other embossments. A projection or tab P is disposed opposite the plurality of tabs 44, 46, 48 and projects towards the plurality of tabs 44, 46, 48.

The second strap 40b comprises a pair of article receiving apertures A3, a first article receiving aperture A3 is disposed proximate a first end of the second strap 40b and a second article receiving aperture A3 is disposed proximate a second end of the second strap 40b.

The second strap 40b is hingedly connected to the first strap 40a by a pair of hinged connections such as fold lines 41. A first one of the pair of fold lines 41 hinges a first end of the second strap 40b to a first end of the first strap 40a along adjacently disposed side edges of the first and second straps 40a, 40b. A second one of the pair of fold lines 41 hinges a second end of the second strap 40b to a second end of the first strap 40a along adjacently disposed side edges of the first and second straps 40a, 40b.

An aperture A separates a central portion of the first strap 40a from a central portion of the second strap 40b.

Turning to the construction of the carton 90 as illustrated in Figures 3 to 6, the carton 90 can be formed by a series of sequential folding operations in a straight line machine so that the carton 90 is not required to be rotated or inverted to complete its construction. The folding process is not limited to that described below and may be altered according to particular manufacturing requirements.

The blank 10 is folded about fold line 15, such that the first top panel 12 and first upper side panel 14 are folded thereabouts. The first top panel 12 is brought into face contacting relationship with the base panel 18; the first upper side panel 14 is brought into face contacting relationship with the first lower side panel 16. Glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to the first top panel 12 or, in alternative embodiments, to a corresponding portion of the second top panel 24.

The second top panel 24 and the second upper side panel 22 are folded about fold line 21 such that the second upper side panel 22 overlies the second lower side panel 20 and the second top panel 24 overlies the first top panel 12.

The second top panel 24 is secured to the first top panel 12 to form a flat collapsed carton. The carton 90 may be shipped or distributed in this flat collapsed form.

In alternative embodiments the second top panel 24 may be secured to the first top panel 12 by alternative securing means for example, but not limited to, staples or other mechanical fixing means.

The flat collapsed carton 90 may be erected into a tubular structure by separating the first and second top panels 12, 24 from the base panel 18.

The carton 90, in its open ended tubular form, may be loaded with articles B through one or both open ends.

Figures 3 and 4 illustrate loading the carton with articles B through an open end of the carton 90; one of the open ends of the tubular structure has been closed.

A first end of the tubular structure is closed by folding the first and second end closure panels 26a, 28a about fold lines 27a, 29a respectively and by folding the fourth and fifth end closure panels 32a, 34a about fold lines 33a, 35a respectively.

Glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to the first end closure panel 26a or in alternative embodiments to a corresponding portion of the sixth end closure panel 36a.

Glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to the fifth end closure panel 34a or in alternative embodiments to a corresponding portion of the sixth end closure panel 36a.

The sixth end closure panel 36a is then folded about the fold line 37a to be brought into contact with the first and fifth end closure panels 26a, 34a and optionally secured thereto. Glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to the second end closure panel 28a or in alternative embodiments to a corresponding portion of the third end closure panel 30a.

Glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to the fourth end closure panel 32a or in alternative embodiments to a corresponding portion of the third end closure panel 30a.

Glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to an inner surface of the third end closure panel 30a or in alternative embodiments to an outer surface of the sixth end closure panel 36a.

The third end closure panel 30a is then folded about the fold line 31 a to be brought into contact with the second and fourth end closure panels 28a, 32a and the sixth end closure panel 36a.

The third end closure panel 30a is secured to the sixth end closure panel 36a.

In alternative embodiments the third end closure panel 30a may be folded about fold line 31 a prior to folding the sixth end closure panel 36a about fold line 37a, it will be appreciated that in such embodiments the sixth end closure panel 36a is disposed outermost.

In some embodiments, some or all of the end closure panels, 26b, 28b, 30b, 32b, 34b, 36b are folded outwardly to form a funnel at the open end of the carton 90, this facilitates loading of the articles B into the carton 90 and reduces the risk of the end closure panels 26b, 28b, 30b, 32b, 34b, 36b interfering with the articles B when they are being loaded.

Glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to an inner surface of the first and or second straps 40a, 40b. The second blank 70 is folded about the pair of fold lines 41 , to bring the first straps 40a into overlying relationship with the second strap 40b to form a carrying handle.

A group of twelve articles B is provided, the group of twelve articles B is arranged in a 3x4 array. The array comprises three columns of four articles B. The array comprises four rows of three articles B. A central column of four articles B comprises a first endmost article B at a first end of the column. The central column of four articles B comprises a second endmost article B at a second end of the column. The carrying handle is applied to the group of articles B by inserting the first endmost article B of the central column into the first article receiving aperture A3 and the first article engaging aperture L. The carrying handle is applied to the group of articles B by inserting the second endmost article B of the central column into the second article receiving aperture A3 and the second article engaging aperture L. A central portion of the carrying handle disposed between first and second article receiving apertures A3 is disposed over a central pair of articles provided in the central column of the group of articles B, as shown in Figure 4.

The group of articles B together with the carrying handle is loaded into the carton through the open end.

Once the carton 90 is loaded with articles B the open end of the tubular structure is closed.

A second end of the tubular structure is closed by folding the seventh and eighth end closure panels 26b, 28b about fold lines 27b, 29b respectively and by folding the tenth and eleventh end closure panels 32b, 34b about fold lines 33b, 35b respectively.

Glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to the seventh end closure panel 26b or in alternative embodiments to a corresponding portion of the twelfth end closure panel 36b.

Glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to the eleventh end closure panel 34b or in alternative embodiments to a corresponding portion of the twelfth end closure panel 36b.

The twelfth end closure panel 36b is then folded about the fold line 37b to be brought into contact with the seventh and eleventh end closure panels 26b, 34b and optionally secured thereto.

Glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to the eighth end closure panel 28b or in alternative embodiments to a corresponding portion of the ninth end closure panel 30b.

Glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to the tenth end closure panel 32b or in alternative embodiments to a corresponding portion of the ninth end closure panel 30b.

Glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to an inner surface of the ninth end closure panel 30b or in alternative embodiments to an outer surface of the twelfth end closure panel 36b.

The ninth end closure panel 30b is then folded about the fold line 31 b to be brought into contact with the eighth and tenth end closure panels 28b, 32b and the twelfth end closure panel 36b. The ninth end closure panel 30b is secured to the twelfth end closure panel 36b.

In alternative embodiments the ninth end closure panel 30b may be folded about fold line 31 b prior to folding the twelfth end closure panel 36b about fold line 37b, it will be appreciated that in such embodiments the twelfth end closure panel 36b is disposed outermost.

Figures 5 and 6 illustrate a perspective view of the carton 90 formed into a package. The carrying handle formed from the blank 70 is shown in a deployed state. The central portion of the carrying handle is bowed upwardly through the first and second openings A1 and A2. The first and second cushioning flaps 42a, 42b have been folded about the fold lines 41 a, 41 b respectively. The first endmost article B of the central column and the second endmost article B of the central column are disposed below the end portion of the first and second top panel 12, 24. In this way the carrying handle is anchored into the carton 90. The plurality of tabs 44, 46, 48 are engaged beneath a flange or other projection so as to secure each end of the carrying handle to the respective one of the first endmost article B of the central column and the second endmost article B of the central column.

A user can grasp the central portion of the carrying handle to lift the carton 90 and its contents.

The central portion of the carrying handle which is disposed over a pair of articles B provided in the central column serves to retain the pair of articles B within the carton. The carrying handle prevents removal of the pair of articles B through the first and second openings A1 , A2. The carrying handle at least inhibits or prevents unintentional egress of the pair of articles B through the first and second openings A1 , A2.

The other articles B in the carton 90 cannot be removed since the pair of articles B in the central column cannot exit the carton 90 through the first and second openings A1 , A2.

The first cushioning flap 42a and second cushioning flap 42b have been folded to be substantially perpendicular to the first strap 40a. The first cushioning flap 42a and second cushioning flap 42b are each hinged to the first strap 40a by non-linear fold lines. In the illustrated embodiments the first cushioning flap 42a and second cushioning flap 42b are each hinged to the first strap 40a by arcuate or curved fold lines. The non-linear fold lines serve to maintain the first strap 40a in a bowed condition, and hence also the second strap 40b is maintained in a bowed condition by virtue of being secured to the first strap 40a. In this way the carrying handle is held in a deployed or operative condition once the first cushioning flap 42a and second cushioning flap 42b have been folded during first use.

Prior to folding the first cushioning flap 42a and second cushioning flap 42b, the central portion of the carrying handle is disposed in close proximity to the central pair of articles B, in a stowed condition. In this way a plurality of cartons 90 can be stacked one on top of another.

Referring now to Figures 7 and 8, there is shown alternative embodiments of the present invention. In the second and third illustrated embodiments, like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix "100" or "200" to indicate that these features belong to the second or third embodiments. The alternative embodiments share many common features with the first embodiment and therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 6 will be described in any greater detail.

Figure 7 illustrates a second blank 170 for forming a carrying handle according to a second illustrated embodiment. The second blank 170 may be employed with the first blank 10 shown in Figure 1 to form a package.

A first strap 140a is formed as an elongate strap which is narrower in dimension at the centre than at each end. A second strap 140b is formed as an elongate strap which is narrower in dimension at the centre than at each end.

The first strap 140a comprises a pair of article receiving apertures A3, a first article receiving aperture A3 is disposed proximate a first end of the first strap 140a and a second article receiving aperture A3 is disposed proximate a second end of the first strap 140a.

The second strap 140b comprises a pair of article receiving apertures A3, a first article receiving aperture A3 is disposed proximate a first end of the second strap 140b and a second article receiving aperture A3 is disposed proximate a second end of the second strap 140b.

A group of twelve articles B is provided, the group of twelve articles B is arranged in a 3x4 array. The array comprises three columns of four articles B. The array comprises four rows of three articles B. A central column of four articles B comprises a first endmost article B at a first end of the column. The central column of four articles B comprises a second endmost article B at a second end of the column. A first outer column of four articles B is disposed alongside the central column of a first side thereof. The first outer column of four articles B comprises a first endmost article B at a first end of the column. The first outer column of four articles B comprises a second endmost article B at a second end of the column. A second outer column of four articles B is disposed alongside the central column of a second side thereof; the second side opposes the first side. The second outer column of four articles B comprises a first endmost article B at a first end of the column. The second outer column of four articles B comprises a second endmost article B at a second end of the column.

A carrying handle is formed by applying the second blank 170 to the group of articles B. The first endmost article B of the first outer column is inserted into the first article receiving aperture A3 of the first strap 140a. The second endmost article B of the second outer column is inserted into the second article receiving aperture A3 of the first strap 140a.

The first endmost article B of the second outer column is inserted into the first article receiving aperture A3 of the second strap 140b. The second endmost article B of the first outer column is inserted into the second article receiving aperture A3 of the second strap 140b.

In this way the first strap 140a and the second strap 140b are disposed in an overlying relationship with one another. The first strap 140a is orientated at an angel with respect to the second strap 140b to form a "crossed" configuration.

A central portion of the first strap 140a disposed between first and second article receiving apertures A3, is disposed over articles provided in the central column of the group of articles B.

A central portion of the second strap 140b disposed between first and second article receiving apertures A3 is disposed over articles provided in the central column of the group of articles B.

In this way the carrying handle is anchored into the carton by four articles B.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 7 the plurality of tabs 44, 46, 48 shown in Figure 2 have been omitted, however in alternative embodiments the plurality of tabs 44, 46, 48 may be provided. In the illustrated embodiment the first and second straps 140a, 140b are formed as separate components. In alternative embodiments, the first and second straps 140a, 140b may be formed as a unitary blank as a "cross" shaped blank. In still further embodiments the first and second straps 140a, 140b may be formed as a unitary blank as a pair of separable components coupled together by one or more severance lines.

Figure 8 illustrates a second blank 270 for forming a carrying handle according to a third illustrated embodiment. The second blank 270 may be employed with the first blank 10 shown in Figure 1 to form a package.

A first strap 240a is formed as an elongate arcuate strap. A second strap 240b is formed as an elongate arcuate strap.

The first strap 240a comprises a pair of article receiving apertures A3, a first article receiving aperture A3 is disposed proximate a first end of the first strap 240a and a second article receiving aperture A3 is disposed proximate a second end of the first strap 240a.

The second strap 240b comprises a pair of article receiving apertures A3, a first article receiving aperture A3 is disposed proximate a first end of the second strap 240b and a second article receiving aperture A3 is disposed proximate a second end of the second strap 240b.

A carrying handle is formed by applying the second blank 270 to the group of articles B. The first endmost article B of the first outer column is inserted into the first article receiving aperture A3 of the first strap 240a. The second endmost article B of the first outer column is inserted into the second article receiving aperture A3 of the first strap 240a.

The first endmost article B of the second outer column is inserted into the first article receiving aperture A3 of the second strap 140b. The second endmost article B of the second outer column is inserted into the second article receiving aperture A3 of the second strap 140b.

A central portion of the first strap 140a and a central portion of the second strap 140b are disposed in an overlying relationship with one another.

The central portion of the first strap 140a disposed between first and second article receiving apertures A3 is disposed over articles provided in the central column of the group of articles B.

The central portion of the second strap 140b disposed between first and second article receiving apertures A3, is disposed over articles provided in the central column of the group of articles B.

In this way the carrying handle is anchored into the carton by four articles B.

In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 8 the plurality of tabs 44, 46, 48 shown in Figure 2 have been omitted, however in alternative embodiments the plurality of tabs 44, 46, 48 may be provided. In the illustrated embodiment the first and second straps 140a, 140b are formed as separate components. In alternative embodiments the first and second straps 140a, 140b may be formed as a unitary blank as a substantially "x" shaped blank. In still further embodiments the first and second straps 240a, 240b may be formed as a unitary blank as a pair of separable components coupled together by one or more severance lines.

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

As used herein, the terms "hinged connection" and "fold line" each refers to all manner of lines that define hinge features in a substrate of sheet material, for facilitating folding portions of the substrate with respect to one another, or otherwise for indicating optimal folding locations in the substrate. For example, a hinged connection should not be construed as necessarily referring to a single fold line only. Indeed a hinged connection can be formed from one or more fold lines.

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

As used herein, the term "severance line" refers to all manner of lines formed in a substrate of sheet material, that facilitate separating portions of the substrate from one another, or otherwise indicate optimal separation locations on the substrate. For example, a severance line in a substrate of sheet material is predisposed to allow a tear to propagate there along. A severance line may be one of the following: a single cut, a single half-cut, a single slit, an interrupted cut, a score line, an interrupted score line, a line of perforations, a line of short cuts, a line of short slits, a line of short half cuts, and any combination of the aforementioned options.

Those elements of a fold line or those of a severance line, such as cuts, perforations and scores, 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, frangible fold line or a severance line. The line of perforations can be designed to facilitate folding and resist breaking to provide a fold line, to facilitate folding and facilitate breaking with more effort to provide a frangible fold line, or to facilitate breaking with little effort to provide a severance line. A frangible fold line may be weaker in terms of breaking resistance than other fold lines in the same blank, in order to facilitate later splitting apart of a finished carrier or carton into multiple separate units while it may be stronger in terms of breaking resistance than severance lines in the same blank, in order to facilitate folding therealong before the finished carrier or carton is split apart.

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

Claims

1. A combination comprising a carton for packaging a plurality of articles and a separate carrying handle for engagement with two or more articles in the carton, the carton comprising a plurality of panels including a top panel, base panel and a pair of opposed side wall panels coupling the base panel to the top panel, the top panel comprising a first opening struck therefrom, the carrying handle comprising at least a first strap, the at least a first strap having a first article engaging aperture disposed proximate a first end of the first strap and a second article engaging aperture disposed proximate a second end of the first strap, the at least a first strap having a central handle portion disposed between the first article engaging aperture and the second article engaging aperture, the first article engaging aperture being configured to engage a first article disposed at least in part below the top panel and the second article engaging aperture being configured to engage a second article disposed at least in part below the top panel, wherein the central handle portion is arranged to be grasped through the first opening.

2. A combination according to claim 1 wherein the carrying handle further comprises a second strap.

3. A combination according to claim 2 wherein the second strap comprises a first article receiving aperture disposed proximate a first end of the second strap and a second article receiving aperture disposed proximate a second end of the second strap.

4. A combination according to claim 3 wherein the first article engaging aperture is disposed in registry with the first article receiving aperture and the second article engaging aperture is disposed in registry with the second article receiving aperture.

5. A combination according to claim 3 wherein the first article engaging aperture comprises a plurality of tabs for engaging the first article, and second article engaging aperture comprises a plurality of tabs for engaging the second article.

6. A combination according to claim 2 wherein the first strap is hinged to the second strap by at least one fold line.

7. A combination according to claim 2 wherein the first strap is separate from the second strap.

8. A combination according to claim 2 wherein the first strap is disposed in overlying relationship, at least in part, with the second strap.

9. A combination according to claim 2 wherein the first strap and the second strap are arranged in a crossed configuration, a central portion of the first strap being disposed in overlying relationship with a central portion of the second strap.

10. A combination according to claim 2 wherein the first strap is arcuate in shape and the second strap is arcuate in shape, a central portion of the first strap being disposed in overlying relationship with a central portion of the second strap.

1 1 . A combination according to claim 1 wherein the carton comprises a second top panel having a second opening struck therefrom, the second top panel being disposed in overlying relationship with the top panel so as to form a two ply structure, the second opening being disposed in registry with the first opening so as to provide an access window in the two ply structure.

12. A package comprising:

a carton having a plurality of panels including a top panel, base panel and a pair of opposed side wall panels coupling the base panel to the top panel, the top panel comprising a first opening struck therefrom;

a group of articles disposed in the carton; and

ta carrying handle comprising at least a first strap;

wherein the at least a first strap has a first article engaging aperture disposed proximate a first end of the first strap and a second article engaging aperture disposed proximate a second end of the first strap,

wherein the at least a first strap has a central handle portion disposed between the first article engaging aperture and the second article engaging aperture,

wherein the first article engaging aperture is secured to a first one of the articles disposed at least in part below the top panel to anchor the first end of the first strap within the carton; and

wherein the second article engaging aperture is secured to a second one of the article disposed at least in part below the top panel to anchor the second end of the first strap within the carton, and

wherein the central handle portion is disposed to be grasped through the opening to form a grip of the carrying handle.

13. A package according to claim 12 wherein the carrying handle may further comprise a second strap having first and second opposed ends.

14. A package according to claim 12 wherein the articles are arranged in an array having one or more rows and one or more columns.

15. A package according to claim 14 wherein the first strap is engaged with a pair of articles disposed in the same row of articles.

16. A package according to claim 14 wherein the first strap is engaged with a pair of articles disposed in the same column of articles.

17. A package according to claim 14 wherein the first strap is engaged at the first end with a first article in first row or column and engaged at the second end with a second article in second, different, row or column.

18. A package according to claim 17 wherein one or more rows or columns of articles are disposed between the first row or column and the second row or column.

19. A package according to claim 13 wherein the articles are arranged in an array having one or more rows and one or more columns.

20. A package according to claim 19 wherein the second strap is engaged with a pair of articles disposed in the same row of articles.

21 . A package according to claim 19 wherein the second strap engages with a pair of articles disposed in the same column of articles.

22. A package according to claim 19 wherein the first strap and the second strap are engaged at their respective first ends with a first article and engaged at their respective second ends with a second article, the second article being disposed in the same row or column of articles as the first article.

23. A package according to claim 19 wherein the second strap is engaged at its first end with a first article in a first row or column and engaged at its second end with a second article in a second, different, row or column.

24. A package according to claim 23 wherein one or more rows or columns of articles are disposed between the first row or column and the second row or column.

25. A package according to claim 13 wherein the second strap comprises a first article receiving aperture disposed proximate the first end thereof and a second article receiving aperture disposed proximate the second end thereof.

26. A package according to claim 25 wherein the first article engaging aperture is disposed in registry with the first article receiving aperture, and the second article engaging aperture is disposed in registry with the second article receiving aperture.

27. A package according to claim 25 wherein the first article engaging aperture comprises a plurality of tabs for engaging the first article, and second article engaging aperture comprises a plurality of tabs for engaging the second article.

28. A package according to claim 13 wherein the first strap is hinged to the second strap by at least one fold line.

29. A package according to claim 13 wherein the first strap is separate from the second strap.

30. A package according to claim 13 wherein the first strap is disposed in overlying relationship, at least in part, with the second strap.

31 . A package according to claim 13 wherein the first strap and the second strap are arranged in a crossed configuration, a central portion of the first strap being disposed in overlying relationship with a central portion of the second strap.

32. A package according to claim 13 wherein the first strap is arcuate in shape and the second strap is arcuate in shape, a central portion of the first strap being disposed in overlying relationship with a central portion of the second strap.

33. A package according to claim 12 wherein a central portion of the first strap is disposed over one or more articles within the carton.

34. A package according to claim 33 wherein the central portion of the first strap retains the one or more articles within the carton.

35. A combination comprising a first blank for forming a carton and a second blank for forming a carrying handle, the first blank comprising a plurality of panels including a top panel, base panel and a pair of opposed side wall panels for coupling the base panel to the top panel, the top panel comprising an opening struck therefrom, the second blank comprising at least a first strap, the at least a first strap having a first article engaging aperture disposed proximate a first end thereof and a second article engaging aperture disposed proximate a second end thereof, the at least a first strap having a central handle portion disposed between the first article engaging aperture and the second article engaging aperture, the first article engaging aperture being configured for engaging a first article and the second article engaging aperture being configured for engaging a second article, wherein the central handle portion is arranged to be grasped through the aperture when the first and second blanks are assemble together.