WO2023150593A2

WO2023150593A2 - Article carrier and blank therefor

Info

Publication number: WO2023150593A2
Application number: PCT/US2023/061813
Authority: WO
Inventors: Kenneth C. Smith; Jeffery S. JAMES; Jonathan Lyon
Original assignee: Westrock Shared Services, Llc
Priority date: 2022-02-02
Filing date: 2023-02-02
Publication date: 2023-08-10
Also published as: WO2023150593A3

Abstract

A top engaging carrier (90; 190) comprises an engaging panel (12; 112) with at least one article retention structure (RT1, RT2). The article retention structure (RT1, RT2) comprises a plurality of tabs (40, 42, 44, 46, 70, 72, 74, 76; 140, 142, 144, 146, 170, 172, 174, 176; 240, 246, 276; 340, 346, 376) disposed about an article receiving aperture (A1, A2). The plurality of tabs comprises a first pair of article-engaging tabs (40, 46; 140, 146; 240, 246; 340, 346) separated by a separation element. The separation element extends from the aperture toward a corner of the engaging panel (12; 112). The corner is defined by an intersection between a first fold line (13, 15; 113A, 115A; 213, 215; 313A, 315A), hingedly connecting an end panel (14, 16; 114A/114B, 116A/116B) to the engaging panel (12; 112), and a second fold line (17, 19; 117A, 119A; 217, 219; 317A, 319A), hingedly connecting a side panel (18, 20; 118A/118B, 120A/120B) to the engaging panel (12; 112). The separation element terminates with a barrier element (57; 157) disposed in the engaging panel (12; 112). The barrier element (57; 157) is disposed between the corner and the separation element such that it is spaced from the corner and hinders the separation element from reaching the corner.

Description

ARTICLE CARRIER AND BLANK THEREFOR

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to article retention structures, article carriers and to blanks for forming the same. More specifically, but not exclusively, the invention relates to a carrier of the top-gripping type having one or more apertures for receiving and retaining an article therein.

BACKGROUND

In the field of packaging, it is known to provide cartons for carrying multiple articles. Cartons are well known in the art and are useful for enabling consumers to transport, store and access a group of articles for consumption. For cost and environmental considerations, such cartons or carriers need to be formed from as little material as possible and cause as little wastage in the materials from which they are formed as possible. Further considerations are the strength of the carton and its suitability for holding and transporting large weights of articles. It is desirable that the contents of the carton are secure within the carton.

It is well known to provide top gripping article carriers in which an aperture is formed in a panel of the carrier, wherein tabs are struck from said panel and are arranged about the aperture. The tabs are displaced out of the plane of said panel when an article is received in the aperture, wherein said tabs engage the article generally about a flange or lip of the article.

The present invention seeks to provide an improvement in the field of cartons, typically formed from paperboard or the like.

SUMMARY

A first aspect of the invention provides an article retention structure in an engaging panel of a blank for forming an article carrier. The article retention structure comprises a plurality of article-engaging tabs disposed about an article receiving aperture. The plurality of article-engaging tabs includes a first pair of article-engaging tabs separated from each other by a separation element. The separation element extends from the aperture toward a corner of the engaging panel. The corner may be defined by an intersection between a first fold line, hingedly connecting an end panel to the engaging panel, and a second fold line, hingedly connecting a side panel to the engaging panel. The separation element may terminate with a barrier element disposed in the engaging panel between the corner and the separation element. The barrier element is spaced from the corner such that it hinders the separation element from reaching the corner of the engaging panel.

Optionally, the barrier element extends perpendicularly to the separation element.

Optionally, the barrier element defines a portion of a side edge of each of the article-engaging tabs of the first pair.

Optionally, the barrier element extends, obliquely, between the first fold line and the second fold line.

Optionally, the barrier element defines, in part, a generally triangular corner portion of the engaging panel, the corner portion of the engaging panel couples the end panel to the side panel. Optionally, the separation element is a first outline.

Optionally, a notional line collinear with the first cut line passes through the corner of the engaging panel.

Optionally, the first cut line defines a portion of a side edge of each of the article-engaging tabs of the first pair.

Optionally, each of the article-engaging tabs of the first pair is hingedly connected to a panel of the blank by a respective hinged connection, the hinged connection may be collinear or coincident with one of the first and second fold lines.

Optionally, the barrier element is a cut.

Optionally, the article retention structure comprises a second pair of article-engaging tabs separated from each other by a second cutline.

Optionally, the second cutline is collinear with the first cutline.

Optionally, the second cutline terminates with a second barrier element.

Optionally, the second barrier element is disposed orthogonally to the second cut line and defines a portion of a side edge of each of the article-engaging tabs of the second pair.

Optionally, the second barrier element is a second cut.

Optionally, a first one of the article-engaging tabs of the first pair is disposed opposite a first one of the articleengaging tabs of the second pair and a second one of the article-engaging tabs of the first pair is disposed opposite a second one of the article-engaging tabs of the second pair.

A second aspect of the invention provides a top-engaging article carrier for engaging at least one article, the carrier comprising: an engaging panel having at least one article retention structure as described in the foregoing paragraphs; a pair of side panels hingedly connected the engaging panel along opposed side edge thereof; and a pair of end panels hingedly connected the engaging panel along opposed end edge thereof.

A third aspect of the invention provides an article retention structure in an engaging panel of a blank for forming an article carrier. The article retention structure comprises a plurality of tabs disposed about an article receiving aperture. The plurality of tabs comprises a pair of asymmetrical tabs disposed adjacent to each other and separated, at least in part, by a separation element. Each asymmetrical tab is defined, at least in part, by a first radial cutline extending from the article receiving aperture to a hinged connection between the engaging panel and one of the asymmetrical tabs. Each asymmetrical tab is defined at least in part by a second radial cutline extending from the article receiving aperture and terminating at its outer end at a barrier element. The second radial cutline is shorter in length than the first radial cutline. The separation element comprises one of the first and second radial cutlines.

A fourth aspect of the invention provides a top-engaging article carrier for engaging at least one article, the carrier comprises an engaging panel having at least one article retention structure as described in at least one of the foregoing paragraphs.

A fifth aspect of the invention provides an article retention structure in an engaging panel of a blank for forming an article carrier. The article retention structure comprises a plurality of tabs disposed about an article receiving aperture. The plurality of tabs comprises a pair of asymmetrical tabs disposed diametrically opposite to each other. Each of the asymmetrical tabs of the pair is defined, at least in part, by a radial cutline extending from the article receiving aperture. The radial cutline terminates at its outer end at a barrier element. The pair of asymmetrical tabs together form a configuration which is symmetrical about a center of the article receiving aperture defined at least by the pair of asymmetrical tabs.

Optionally, the pair of asymmetrical tabs in combination form a configuration which is rotationally symmetric, the combination has an order of rotational symmetry of at least two.

Optionally, the pair of asymmetrical tabs in combination form a configuration having mirror symmetry about a notional line passing thought the center of the article receiving aperture.

Optionally, the notional line is oriented parallel to hinged connections between the engaging tab and one of the asymmetrical tabs.

Optionally, the notional line extends perpendicularly from a side or end edge of the engaging panel.

Optionally, a symmetrical tab is disposed between the asymmetrical tabs of the pair, and wherein each of the opposite sides of the symmetrical tab is defined by a radial cut having its radially outer end free of a barrier element.

Optionally, the radial cut terminates at an intersection between a first hinged connection, hinging the symmetrical tab to a panel of the blank, and a second hinged connection, hinging one of the asymmetrical tabs of the pair to the engaging panel.

A sixth aspect of the invention provides a top-engaging article carrier for engaging at least one article, the carrier comprises an engaging panel having at least one article retention structure as described in at least one of the foregoing paragraphs.

A seventh aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for engaging at least one article. The carrier comprises an engaging panel, a side panel hingedly connected to a side edge of the engaging panel, and an end panel hingedly connected to an end edge of the engaging panel. The article carrier comprises a joint flap at an end of a side panel. The joint flap has no direct connection to the adjacent end panel in the blank form. The joint flap has a first fold line disposed in registry with a second fold line in the end panel. An upper portion of the joint flap is directly secured to an upper portion of the end panel in a face-contacting arrangement therewith.

An eighth aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for engaging at least one article. The carrier comprises an engaging panel, a side panel hingedly connected to a side edge of the engaging panel, and an end panel hingedly connected to an end edge of the engaging panel. The article carrier comprises a joint flap at an end of a side panel. The joint flap is frangibly connected to the adjacent end panel in the blank form. The joint flap has a first fold line disposed in registry with a second fold line in the end panel. An upper portion of the joint flap is directly secured to an upper portion of the end panel in a face-contacting arrangement therewith.

A ninth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming a top-engaging carrier, the blank comprising an engaging panel, a side panel hingedly connected to a side edge of the engaging panel, an end panel hingedly connected to an end edge of the engaging panel, and a joint flap at an end of a side panel. The joint flap has no direct connection to the adjacent end panel. The joint flap has a first fold line arranged to be disposed in registry with a second fold line in the end panel in a setup carrier. An upper portion of the joint flap is directly secured to an upper portion of the end panel in a face-contacting arrangement therewith. A tenth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming a top-engaging carrier, the blank comprising an engaging panel, a side panel hingedly connected to a side edge of the engaging panel, an end panel hingedly connected to an end edge of the engaging panel, and a joint flap at an end of a side panel. The joint flap is frangibly connected to the adjacent end panel. The joint flap has a first fold line arranged to be disposed in registry with a second fold line in the end panel in a setup carrier. An upper portion of the joint flap is directly secured to an upper portion of the end panel in a face-contacting arrangement therewith.

An eleventh aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming a top-engaging carrier. The blank comprises an engaging panel having at least one article retention structure comprising a plurality of tabs disposed about an article receiving aperture. The plurality of tabs comprises a pair of asymmetrical tabs disposed diametrically opposite to each other. Each pair of asymmetrical tabs is defined, at least in part, by a radial cutline extending from the article receiving aperture. The radial cutline terminates at its outer end at a barrier element. The pair of asymmetrical tabs together form a configuration which is symmetrical about a center of the article receiving aperture defined at least by the pair of asymmetrical tabs.

A twelfth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming a top-engaging carrier. The blank comprises an engaging panel having at least one article retention structure comprising a plurality of tabs disposed about an article receiving aperture. The plurality of tabs comprises a pair of asymmetrical tabs disposed adjacent to each other and separated, at least in part, by a separation element. Each asymmetrical tab is defined, at least in part, by a first radial cutline extending from the article receiving aperture to a hinged connection between the engaging panel and one of the asymmetrical tabs. Each asymmetrical tab is defined at least in part by a second radial cutline extending from the article receiving aperture and terminates at its outer end at a barrier element. The second radial cutline being shorter in length than the first radial cutline. The separation element comprises one of the first and second cutlines.

A thirteenth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming a top-engaging carrier. The blank comprises an engaging panel having at least one article retention structure, a pair of side panels hingedly connected the engaging panel along opposed side edge thereof, and a pair of end panels hingedly connected the engaging panel along opposed end edge thereof. The at least one article retention structure comprises a plurality of articleengaging tabs disposed about an article receiving aperture. The plurality of article-engaging tabs includes a first pair of article-engaging tabs separated from each other by a separation element. The separation element extends toward a corner of the engaging panel. The corner may be defined by an intersection between a first fold line, hingedly connecting one of the end panels to the engaging panel, and a second fold line, hingedly connecting one of the side panels to the engaging panel. The separation element may terminate with a barrier element disposed in the engaging panel. The barrier element is spaced from the corner such that the barrier element hinders the separation element from reaching the corner of the engaging panel.

Further features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the specific embodiments illustrated in the drawings and discussed below. Within the scope of this application, it is envisaged or intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings may be considered or taken independently or in any combination thereof.

Features or elements described in connection with, or relation to, one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments unless there is an incompatibility of features. One or more features or elements from one embodiment may be incorporated into, or combined with, any of the other embodiments disclosed herein, said features or elements extracted from said one embodiment may be included in addition to, or in replacement of one or more features or elements of said other embodiment.

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

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

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 carrier according to a first embodiment;

Figure 2 is a perspective view from above of a carrier formed from the blank of Figure 1 ;

Figure 3 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a second embodiment;

Figure 4 is a perspective view from above of a carrier formed from the blank of Figure 3;

Figure 5 is a perspective view from below of a portion of the carrier formed from the blank of Figure 4 Figure 6 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a third embodiment; and Figure 7 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a fourth embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of the package, blanks and carriers are disclosed herein. It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the way in which certain aspects of the invention can be implemented and do not represent an exhaustive list of all of the ways the invention may be embodied. As used herein, the word "exemplary” is used expansively to refer to embodiments that serve as illustrations, specimens, models, or patterns. Indeed, it will be understood that the packages, blanks and carriers described herein may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The Figures are not necessarily to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components. Well-known components, materials or methods are not necessarily described in great detail in order to avoid obscuring the present disclosure. Any specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the invention.

Referring to Figure 1 , there is shown a plan view of a blank 10 which is capable of forming a carton or carrier 90, as shown in Figure 2, for containing and carrying a group of primary products such as, but not limited to, bottles or cans, hereinafter referred to as articles B. The blank 10 forms a secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package.

An alternative blank 110 is shown in Figure 3 for forming a carton or carrier 190, as shown in Figures 4 and 5, for containing and carrying a group of primary products such as, but not limited to, bottles or cans, hereinafter referred to as articles B.

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 and carrying articles, such as primary product containers. It is contemplated that the teachings of the invention can be applied to various product containers, which may or may not be tapered and/or cylindrical. Exemplary containers include bottles (for example metallic, glass or plastics bottles), cans (for example aluminum cans), tins, pouches, packets and the like.

The blanks 10; 110 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.

The packaging structures or cartons 90; 190 described herein may be formed from a sheet material such as paperboard, which may be made of or coated with materials to increase its strength. An example of such a sheet material is tear-resistant NATRALOCK® paperboard made by WestRock Company. It should be noted that the tear resistant materials may be provided by more than one layer, to help improve the tear-resistance of the package. Typically, one surface of the sheet material may have different characteristics to the other surface. For example, the surface of the sheet material that faces outwardly from a finished package may be particularly smooth and may have a coating such as a clay coating or other surface treatment to provide good printability. The surface of the sheet material that faces inwardly may, on the other hand, be provided with a coating, a layer, a treatment or be otherwise prepared to provide properties such as one or more of tear-resistance, good glue-ability, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties.

In the illustrated embodiments, the blanks 10; 110 are configured to form a carton or carrier 90; 190 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles B. In the illustrated embodiments, the arrangement is a 2 x 3 matrix or array; in the illustrated embodiments two rows of three articles B are provided, and the articles B are 500ml PET bottles.

Alternatively, the blanks 10; 110 can be configured to form a carrier for packaging other types, number and size of articles and/or for packaging articles in a different arrangement or configuration.

Referring to Figure 1 there is shown a blank 10 comprising a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, including an engaging panel 12 for forming a top wall or engaging panel of a carrier 90 (see Figure 2).

A first end panel 14 is hingedly connected to a first end of the engaging panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 13.

A second end panel 16 is hingedly connected to a second end of the engaging panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 15. A first side panel 18 is hingedly connected to a first side of the engaging panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 17.

A second side panel 20 is hingedly connected to a second side of the engaging panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 19.

A first corner panel 24A is hingedly connected to a first end of the first side panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 25A. A second corner panel 24B is hingedly connected to a first end of the second side panel 20 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 25B.

A first securing panel 22A is hingedly connected to the first corner panel 24A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 23A. The first securing panel 22A is separated from the first end panel 14 by a cut line or severable line 21A.

A second securing panel 22B is hingedly connected to the second corner panel 24B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 23B. The first securing panel 22A is separated from the first end panel 14 by a cut line or severable line 21 B.

A third corner panel 28A is hingedly connected to a second end of the first side panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 31 A. A fourth corner panel 28B is hingedly connected to a second end of the second side panel 20 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 31 B.

A third securing panel 26A is hingedly connected to the third corner panel 28A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 29A. The first securing panel 22A is separated from the second end panel 16 by a cut line or severable line 27A.

A fourth securing panel 26B is hingedly connected to the fourth corner panel 28B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 29B. The first securing panel 22A is separated from the second end panel 16 by a cut line or severable line 27B.

The engaging panel 12 comprises at least one article retention structure RT1 , RT2. The engaging panel 12 comprises a plurality of article retention structures RT1 , RT2, specifically six article retention structures RT1 , RT2 arranged in 2 x 3 matrix or array. Each of the article retention structures RT1 , RT2 comprises an opening or aperture A1 , A2.

The article retention structures RT 1 , RT2 of the illustrated embodiment take the form of a plurality of teeth or tabs 40, 42, 44, 46, 70, 72, 74, 76 -specifically, but not limited to, four teeth or tabs 40, 42, 44, 46, 70, 72, 74, 76- arranged in about an aperture A1 , A2 to form part of an article receiving opening.

The blank 10 comprises four first or endmost article retention structures RT 1 each comprising a first opening or aperture A1. The blank 10 comprises two second, medial or intermediate article retention structures RT2 each comprising a second opening or aperture A2.

The endmost article retention structures RT1 comprises an article receiving opening defined in part by the first aperture A1 which is defined in, or struck from, the engaging panel 12.

The intermediate article retention structures RT2 comprises an article receiving opening defined in part by the second aperture A2 which is defined in, or struck from, the engaging panel 12. The endmost article retention structures RT 1 comprise a first plurality of teeth or tabs 40, 42, 44, 46 disposed about the first aperture A1 and the intermediate article retention structures RT2 each comprise a second plurality of teeth or tabs 70, 72, 74, 76 disposed about the second aperture A2.

The first plurality of teeth 40, 42, 44, 46 are provided by the engaging panel 12. Each of the teeth 40, 42, 44, 46 is hingedly connected to the blank by a respective hinged connection 41 , 43, 45, 47. Each hinged connection may be defined by a plurality of cut lines. Each hinged connection may be arranged to be linear. The teeth 42, 44 are hingedly connected to the engaging panel 12 along the hinged connections 43, 45 respectively while the other teeth 40, 46 are hingedly connected to the respective ones of the end and side panels 14, 16, 18, 20.

Each of the first plurality of teeth 40, 42, 44, 46 is separated from its adjacent neighbors by a separation element in the form of a cut line 49, 51 , 53, 55. The cut line 49, 51 , 53, 55 may extend radially outward from the first aperture A1. In the illustrated embodiment, a first cutline 49 is disposed opposite a third cut line 53 (the first and third cut lines 49, 53 being collinear), a second cut line 51 is disposed opposite a fourth cut line 55 (the second and fourth cut lines 51 , 55 being collinear).

At least one of the cut lines 49, 51 , 53, 55 may terminate at a barrier element in the form of a cut 57, 59, the cut 57, 59 may be linear and may be oriented perpendicularly with respect to the at least one of the cut line 49, 51 , 53, 55. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of the cut lines 49, 51 , 53, 55 may terminate at a transverse cut 57, 59. The second cutline 51 and the fourth cut line 55 each may terminate at a respective cut 57, 59. A notional line colinear with the second cutline 51 and the fourth cut line 55 passes through a corner of the engaging panel 12, the corner may be defined by the vertex or intersection of a pair of adjacent fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19.

At least one of the cut lines 49, 51 , 53, 55 may be interrupted by at least one fine nick (i.e., a board area having not cut). For example, any one of the cut lines 49, 51 , 53, 55 may stop short of the first aperture A1 and/or its respective one of the barrier element 57/59 and the hinged connection 41/43/45/47.

The cut 57 terminating the second cutline 51 may extend between an adjacent pair of hinged edges of the engaging panel 12, between a pair of adjacent fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19.

The cuts 57, 59 may extend between a pair of adjacently disposed hinged connections 41 , 43, 45, 47 of the first plurality of teeth 40, 42, 44, 46.

A first tooth 40 may be hinged to the end panel 14, 16 by a first hinged connection 41 , the first hinged connection 41 may be collinear or coincident with the fold line 13, 15 between the engaging panel 12 and the first or second end panel 14, 16.

A fourth tooth 46 may be hinged to the side panel 18, 20 by a fourth hinged connection 47, the fourth hinged connection 47 may be collinear or coincident with the fold line 17, 19 between the engaging panel 12 and the first or second side panel 18, 20.

Optionally, one or more of the cutlines 49, 51 , 53, 55 may be spaced apart from the first aperture A1 such that a connecting nick or bridge is provided between an adjacent pair of the first plurality of teeth 40, 42, 44, 46.

The second plurality of teeth 70, 72, 74, 76 are provided by the engaging panel 12. Each of the teeth 70, 72, 74, 76 is hingedly connected to the blank by a respective hinged connection 71 , 73, 75, 77. The teeth 70, 72, 74 are hingedly connected to the engaging panel 12 while the other tooth 76 is hingedly connected to the side panel 18/20. Each hinged connection may be defined by a plurality of cut lines. Each hinged connection may be arranged to be linear.

Each of the second plurality of teeth 70, 72, 74, 76 is separated from its adjacent neighbors by a cut line 79, 81 , 83, 85. The cut line 79, 81 , 83, 85 may extend radially outward from the second aperture A2. In the illustrated embodiment, a first cutline 79 is disposed opposite a third cut line 83 (the first and third cut lines 79, 83 being collinear), a second cut line 81 is disposed opposite a fourth cut line 85 (the second and fourth cut lines 81 , 85 being collinear).

At least one of the cut lines 79, 81 , 83, 85 may terminate at a cut 87, 89, the cut 87, 89 may be linear and may be oriented perpendicularly with respect to the at least one of the cut lines 79, 81, 83, 85. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of the cut lines 79, 81 , 83, 85 may terminate at a transverse cut 87, 89. The first cutline 79 and the fourth cut line 85 each may terminate at a respective cut 87, 89.

The cuts 87, 89 may extend between a pair of adjacently disposed hinged connections 71 , 73, 75, 77 of the second plurality of teeth 70, 72, 74, 76.

A fourth tooth 76 may be hinged to the side panel 18, 20 by a fourth hinged connection 77. The fourth hinged connection 77 may be collinear or coincident with the fold line 17, 19 between the engaging panel 12 and the first or second side panel 18, 20.

Optionally, one or more of the cutlines 79, 81 , 83, 85 may be spaced apart from the second aperture A2 such that a connecting nick or bridge (i.e., a board area having not cut) is provided between an adjacent pair of the second plurality of teeth 70, 72, 74, 76. In other words, at least one of the cut lines 79, 81 , 83, 85 may be interrupted by at least one fine nick or bridge. For example, any one of the cut lines 79, 81 , 83, 85 may stop short of the second aperture A2 and/or its respective one of the barrier element 87, 89 and the hinged connection 71 , 75, 77.

The blank 10 may comprise a handle structure, the handle structure may comprise at least one finger opening. The illustrated embodiment comprises a pair of finger openings. Each finger opening may be defined, at least in part, by a handle tab 60 struck from, or defined in, the engaging panel 12. Each handle tab 60 is hingedly connected to the engaging panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 61 , the handle tabs 60 may be hinged in opposition to each other.

The blank 10 can be applied to a group of articles B in a flat form and folded thereabout or may be preassembled and applied in the assembled condition to the group of articles B.

The engaging panel 12 may be lowered with respect to a group of articles B.

Each of the article retention structures RT1 , RT2 of the blank 10 is aligned with a respective article B in the group. Portions of the articles B pass through the engaging panel 12. The toothed regions of the engaging panel 12 about each of the article retention structures RT1 , RT2 may be folded out of the plane of the engaging panel 12.

Each toothed region of the engaging panel 12 may be folded about one of the articles B received in the respective one of the article retention structures RT1 , RT2.

Engaging edges of the teeth 40, 42, 44, 46, 70, 72, 74, 76 engage beneath a projection. The projection may be located about the neck the article B of an article B. When the article B is a bottle, the projection may be provided by an end closure or cap. In this way, the engaging edges grip or hold the article B and prevent or inhibit the article B from unintentionally separating from the engaging panel 12.

The first and second side panels 18, 20 are folded about the opposing sides of the group of articles B. The corner panels 24A, 24B, 28A, 28B are folded about the corners of the group of articles B and the securing panels 22A, 22B, 26A, 26B are folded about ends of the group of articles B.

Glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to the securing panels 22A, 22B, 26A, 26B or to an inner surface of corresponding regions of the first and second end panels 14, 16.

The first and second end panels 14, 16 are folded downwards about a respective end of the group of articles B. The first and second end panels 14, 16 are brought into face contacting relationship with respective ones of the securing panels 22A, 22B, 26A, 26B. The first and second end panels 14, 16 are secured to respective ones of the securing panels 22A, 22B, 26A, 26B.

A package comprising the article carrier 90 and the group of articles B is shown in Figure 2.

The carrier 90 may beneficially conceal a part of the articles B from view. The side panels 18, 20 and/or end panels 14, 16 may conceal a region of the articles B, for example said panels 18, 20, 14, 16 may conceal a barcode or other indicia such as, but not limited to, price indicia provided on individual articles B.

The side panels 18, 20 and end panels 14, 16 encircle or surround the group of articles B and may contain or confine or stabilize the articles B; they may prevent or inhibit movement of the articles B for example tilting or splaying of the articles B when the article carrier 90 is carried by a user. The engagement of the side panels 18, 20 with the end panels 14, 16 via the securing panels 22A, 22B, 26A, 26B (and the corner panels 24A, 24B, 28A, 28B) may increase the strength, rigidity and robustness of the carrier 90 for example when carrying the carrier 90 by engagement with one of the plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20.

Referring now to Figures 3 to 5 there is shown an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure. In the second illustrated embodiment, like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix "100” to indicate that these features belong to the second embodiment. The alternative embodiment shares many common features with the embodiment of Figures 1 and 2, therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 will be described in any greater detail.

Figure 3 shows a blank 110 comprising a plurality of panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120, including an engaging panel 112 for forming a top wall or engaging panel of a carrier 190 (see Figure 4).

A first upper end panel 114A is hingedly connected to a first end of the engaging panel 112 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 113A. A first lower end panel 114B is hingedly connected to the first upper end panel 114A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 113B.

A second upper end panel 116A is hingedly connected to a second end of the engaging panel 112 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 115A. A second lower end panel 116B is hingedly connected to the second upper end panel 116A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 115B.

A first upper side panel 118A is hingedly connected to a first side of the engaging panel 112 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 117A. A first lower side panel 118B is hingedly connected to the first upper side panel 118A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 117B. A second upper side panel 120A is hingedly connected to a second side of the engaging panel 112 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 119A. A second lower side panel 120B is hingedly connected to the second upper side panel 120A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 119B.

A first corner panel 124A is hingedly connected to a first end of the first lower side panel 118B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 125A. A second corner panel 124B is hingedly connected to a first end of the second lower side panel 120B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 125B.

A first securing panel 122A/130A is hingedly connected to the first corner panel 124A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 123A. The first securing panel 122A/130A comprises a first lower securing panel portion 122A and a first upper securing panel portion 130A, the first lower securing panel portion 122A is hingedly connected to a first upper securing panel portion 130A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 121 A. The first upper securing panel portion 130A is separated from the first upper and lower end panels 114A, 114B by a cut line 133A or by a frangible or severable line. An aperture A3 separates the first corner panel 124A from the first upper end panel 114A; the aperture A3 also separates first upper securing panel portion 130A from the first upper side panel 118A.

A second securing panel 122B/130B is hingedly connected to the second corner panel 124B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 123B. The second securing panel 122B/130B comprises a second lower securing panel portion 122B and a second upper securing panel portion 130B, the second lower securing panel portion 122B is hingedly connected to a second upper securing panel portion 130B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 121 B. The second upper securing panel portion 130B is separated from the first upper and lower end panels 114A, 114B by a cut line 133B or by a frangible or severable line. An aperture A3 separates the second corner panel 124B from the first upper end panel 114A; the aperture A3 also separates second upper securing panel portion 130B from the second upper side panel 120A.

A third corner panel 128A is hingedly connected to a second end of the first lower side panel 118A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 131 A. A fourth corner panel 128B is hingedly connected to a second end of the second lower side panel 120A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 131 B.

A third securing panel 126A/132A is hingedly connected to the third corner panel 128A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 129A. The third securing panel 126A/132A comprises a third lower securing panel portion 126A and a third upper securing panel portion 132A, the third lower securing panel portion 126A is hingedly connected to a third upper securing panel portion 132A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 127A. The third upper securing panel portion 132A is separated from the second upper and lower end panels 116A, 116B by a cut line 135A or by a frangible or severable line. An aperture A3 separates the third corner panel 128A from the second upper end panel 116A; the aperture A3 also separates third upper securing panel portion 132A from the first upper side panel 118A.

A fourth securing panel 126B/132B is hingedly connected to the fourth corner panel 128B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 129B. The fourth securing panel 126B/132B comprises a fourth lower securing panel portion 126B and a fourth upper securing panel portion 132B, the fourth lower securing panel portion 126B is hingedly connected to a fourth upper securing panel portion 132B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 127B. The fourth upper securing panel portion 132B is separated from the second upper and lower end panels 116A, 116B by a cut line 135B or by a frangible or severable line. An aperture A3 separates the fourth corner panel 128B from the second upper end panel 116A; the aperture A3 also separates fourth upper securing panel portion 132B from the second upper side panel 120A.

The engaging panel 112 comprises at least one article retention structure RT1 , RT2. The engaging panel 112 comprises a plurality of article retention structures RT1 , RT2, specifically six article retention structures RT1 , RT2 arranged in 2 x 3 matrix or array. Each of the article retention structures RT1 , RT2 is substantially the same in construction as the article retention structures RT1, RT2 of Figure 1 and will not be described in further detail.

Figure 4 illustrates an article carrier 190 formed from the blank 110. The upper end and side panels 1 14A, 116A, 118A, 120A are disposed about the shoulder of the articles B, the lower end and side panels 114B, 116B, 118B, 120B are disposed about the shoulder and/or main body of the articles B.

The end and side panels 114B, 116B, 118B, 120B are connected by the corner panels 124A, 124B, 128A, 128B. The upper end panels 114A, 116A are free of connection to the upper side panels 118A, 120A.

Figure 5 shows an internal view of the carton 190, and illustrates securing panels 122A/130A, 126A/132A secured to the respective one of the first and second end panels 114A/114B, 116A/116B. The lower securing panel portions 126A, 122A are secured with glue or other suitable adhesive treatment to the lower end panels 114B, 116B. The upper securing panel portions 130A, 132A are secured with glue or other suitable adhesive treatment to the upper end panels 114A, 116A. The securing panels 122A/130A, 126A/132A are secured internally in the illustrated embodiment, however in alternative embodiments they may be secured externally. Optionally, the upper securing panel portions 130A, 130B, 132A, 130B may be omitted in some embodiments.

Figure 6 shows a third alternative embodiment of the present disclosure. In the third illustrated embodiment, like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix "200” to indicate that these features belong to the third embodiment. The third embodiment shares many common features with the first embodiment of Figures 1 and 2. Therefore, only the differences from the first embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 and 2 will be described in any greater detail.

Figure 6 shows a blank 210 in which a first end panel 14 is hingedly connected to a first end of the engaging panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of an interrupted fold line 213. A second end panel 16 is hingedly connected to a second end of the engaging panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of an interrupted fold line 215. A first side panel 18 is hingedly connected to a first side of the engaging panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of an interrupted fold line 217. A second side panel 20 is hingedly connected to a second side of the engaging panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of an interrupted fold line 219.

The engaging panel 12 comprises at least one article retention structure RT1 , RT2. The engaging panel 12 of Figure 6 comprises a plurality of article retention structures RT 1 , RT2, specifically six article retention structures RT1 , RT2 arranged in 2 x 3 matrix or array. Each of the article retention structures RT1 , RT2 is similar in construction to the article retention structures RT 1 , RT2 of Figure 1 and thus only the differences will be described in further detail. The article retention structures RT 1 , RT2 of Figure 6 take the form of a plurality of teeth or tabs 240, 42, 44, 246, 70, 72, 74, 276 -specifically, but not limited to, four teeth or tabs 240, 42, 44, 246, 70, 72, 74, 276 arranged in about an aperture A1 , A2 to form part of an article receiving opening.

The endmost article retention structures RT 1 comprise a first plurality of teeth or tabs 240, 42, 44, 246 disposed about the first aperture A1 and the intermediate article retention structures RT2 each comprise a second plurality of teeth or tabs 70, 72, 74, 276 disposed about the second aperture A2.

The first plurality of teeth 240, 42, 44, 246 are provided by the engaging panel 12. Each of the teeth 42, 44 is hingedly connected to the engaging panel 12, by a respective hinged connection. Each hinged connection may be defined by a plurality of cut lines. Each hinged connection may be arranged to be linear. Another tooth 240 is joined integrally with the end panel 14/16 such that the tooth 240 interrupts the hinged connection 213/215 between the end panel 14/16 and the engaging panel 12. The other tooth 246 is joined integrally with the side panel 18/20 such that the tooth 246 interrupts the hinged connection 217/219 between the side panel 18/20 and the engaging panel 12.

Each of the first plurality of teeth 240, 42, 44, 246 is separated from its adjacent neighbors by a separation element in the form of a cut line 249, 251 , 253, 255. The cut line 249, 251 , 253, 255 may extend radially outward from the first aperture A1 . In the illustrated embodiment, a first cutline 249 is disposed opposite a third cut line 253 (the first and third cut lines 249, 253 being collinear), a second cut line 251 is disposed opposite a fourth cut line 255 (the second and fourth cut lines 251 , 255 being collinear).

Unlike the cut lines 49, 51 , 53, 55 of Figure 1 , none of the cut lines 249, 251, 253, 255 is interrupted by any nick. Each of the cut lines 249, 251 , 253, 255 extends all the way between its first aperture A1 and its respective one of the barrier element and the hinged connection located next to the outer end of that cut line.

The first tooth 240 is formed integrally with the respective one of the end panels 14, 16 such that it extends from end panel 14, 16 into the engaging panel 12 while interrupting the hinged connection 213, 215 between the end panel 14, 16 and the engaging panel 12.

A fourth tooth 246 is formed integrally with the respective one of the side panels 18, 20 such that it extends from the side panel 18, 20 into the engaging panel 12 while interrupting the hinged connection 217, 219 between the side panel 18, 20 and the engaging panel 12.

The second plurality of teeth 70, 72, 74, 276 are provided by the engaging panel 12. Each of the teeth 70, 72, 74 is hingedly connected to the engaging panel 12, by a respective hinged connection. Each hinged connection may be defined by a plurality of cut lines. Each hinged connection may be arranged to be linear. The other tooth 276 is integrally formed with the respective one of the side panels 18, 20 such that it extends from the side panel 18, 20 into the engaging panel 12 while interrupting the hinged connection 217, 219 between the side panel 18, 20 and the engaging panel 12.

Each of the second plurality of teeth 70, 72, 74, 276 is separated from its adjacent neighbors by a cut line 279, 281 , 283, 285. The cut line 279, 281 , 283, 285 may extend radially outward from the second aperture A2. In the illustrated embodiment, a first cutline 279 is disposed opposite a third cut line 283 (the first and third cut lines 279, 283 being collinear), a second cut line 281 is disposed opposite a fourth cut line 285 (the second and fourth cut lines 281 , 285 being collinear).

At least one of the cut lines 279, 281 , 283, 285 may terminate at a cut. Such a cut may be linear and may be oriented perpendicularly with respect to the at least one of the cut lines 279, 281 , 283, 285. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of the cut lines 279, 281 , 283, 285 may terminate at a transverse cut. The first cutline 279 and the fourth cut line 285 each may terminate at a respective cut.

Unlike the cut lines 79, 81 , 83, 85 of Figure 1 , none of the cut lines 279, 281, 283, 285 is interrupted by any nick or bridge. Each of the cut lines 279, 281 , 283, 285 extends all the way between its second aperture A2 and its respective one of the barrier element and the hinged connection located next to the outer end of that cut line.

Figure 7 shows a fourth alternative embodiment of the present disclosure. In the fourth illustrated embodiment, like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix "300” to indicate that these features belong to the fourth embodiment. The fourth embodiment shares many common features with the second embodiment of Figures 3 to 5. Therefore, only the differences from the second embodiment illustrated in Figures 3 to 5 will be described in any greater detail.

Figure 7 shows a blank 310 in which a first end panel 114A/114B is hingedly connected to a first end of the engaging panel 112 by a hinged connection in the form of an interrupted fold line 313A. A second end panel 116A/116B is hingedly connected to a second end of the engaging panel 112 by a hinged connection in the form of an interrupted fold line 315A. A first side panel 118A/118B is hingedly connected to a first side of the engaging panel 112 by a hinged connection in the form of an interrupted fold line 317A. A second side panel 120A/120B is hingedly connected to a second side of the engaging panel 112 by a hinged connection in the form of an interrupted fold line 319A.

The engaging panel 112 comprises at least one article retention structure RT1 , RT2. The engaging panel 112 of Figure 7 comprises a plurality of article retention structures RT 1 , RT2, specifically six article retention structures RT1 , RT2 arranged in 2 x 3 matrix or array. Each of the article retention structures RT1 , RT2 is similar in construction to the article retention structures RT 1 , RT2 of Figure 3 and thus only the differences will be described in further detail.

The article retention structures RT1 , RT2 of Figure 7 take the form of a plurality of teeth or tabs 340, 142, 144, 346, 170, 172, 174, 376 -specifically, but not limited to, four teeth or tabs 340, 142, 144, 346, 170, 172, 174, 376 arranged in about an aperture A1 , A2 to form part of an article receiving opening.

The endmost article retention structures RT1 comprise a first plurality of teeth or tabs 340, 142, 144, 346 disposed about the first aperture A1 and the intermediate article retention structures RT2 each comprise a second plurality of teeth or tabs 170, 172, 174, 376 disposed about the second aperture A2.

The first plurality of teeth 340, 142, 144, 346 are provided by the engaging panel 112. Each of the teeth 342, 344 is hingedly connected to the engaging panel 112, by a respective hinged connection. Each hinged connection may be defined by a plurality of cut lines. Each hinged connection may be arranged to be linear. Another tooth 340 is joined integrally with the upper end panel 114A/116A such that the tooth 340 interrupts the hinged connection 313A/315A between the upper end panel 114A/116A and the engaging panel 112. The other tooth 346 is joined integrally with the upper side panel 118A/120A such that the tooth 346 interrupts the hinged connection 317A/319A between the upper side panel 118A/120A and the engaging panel 112.

Each of the first plurality of teeth 340, 142, 144, 346 is separated from its adjacent neighbors by a separation element in the form of a cut line 349, 351 , 353, 355. The cut line 349, 351 , 353, 355 may extend radially outward from the first aperture A1 . In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 7, a first cutline 349 is disposed opposite a third cut line 353 (the first and third cut lines 349, 353 being collinear), a second cut line 351 is disposed opposite a fourth cut line 355 (the second and fourth cut lines 351, 355 being collinear).

Unlike the cut lines 149, 151 , 153, 155 of Figure 3, none of the cut lines 349, 351 , 353, 355 is interrupted by any nick or bridge. Each of the cut lines 349, 351 , 353, 355 extends all the way between its first aperture A1 and its respective one of the barrier element and the hinged connection located next to the radially outer end of that cut line.

The first tooth 340 is formed integrally with the respective one of the upper end panels 114A, 116A such that it extends from the upper end panel 114A, 116A into the engaging panel 112 while interrupting the hinged connection 313A, 315A between the upper end panel 114A, 116A and the engaging panel 112.

A fourth tooth 346 is formed integrally with the respective one of the upper side panels 118A, 120A such that it extends from the upper side panel 118A, 120A into the engaging panel 112 while interrupting the hinged connection 317A, 319A between the upper side panel 118A, 120A and the engaging panel 112.

The second plurality of teeth 170, 172, 174, 376 are provided by the engaging panel 112. Each of the teeth 170, 172, 174 is hingedly connected to the engaging panel 112 by a respective hinged connection. Each hinged connection may be defined by a plurality of cut lines. Each hinged connection may be arranged to be linear. The other tooth 376 is integrally formed with the respective one of the upper side panels 118A, 120A such that it extends from the upper side panel 118A, 120A into the engaging panel 112 while interrupting the hinged connection 317A, 319A between the upper side panel 118A, 120A and the engaging panel 112.

Each of the second plurality of teeth 170, 172, 174, 376 is separated from its adjacent neighbors by a cut line 379, 381 , 383, 385. The cut line 379, 381 , 383, 385 may extend radially outward from the second aperture A2. In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 7, a first cutline 379 is disposed opposite a third cut line 383 (the first and third cut lines 379, 383 being collinear), a second cut line 381 is disposed opposite a fourth cut line 385 (the second and fourth cut lines 381 , 385 being collinear).

At least one of the cut lines 379, 381 , 383, 385 may terminate at a cut. Such a cut may be linear and may be oriented perpendicularly with respect to the at least one of the cut lines 379, 381 , 383, 385. In the illustrated embodiment of Figure 7, a pair of the cut lines 379, 381 , 383, 385 may terminate at a transverse cut. The first cutline 379 and the fourth cut line 385 each may terminate at a respective cut.

Unlike the cut lines 179, 181 , 183, 185 of Figure 3, none of the cut lines 379, 381 , 383, 385 is interrupted by any nick or bridge. Each of the cut lines 379, 381 , 383, 385 extends all the way between its second aperture A2 and its respective one of the barrier element and the hinged connection located next to the radially outer end of that cut line. A first corner panel 324A is hingedly connected to a first end of the first lower side panel 118B by a fold line which is somewhat shorter than the fold line 125A of Figure 3. A second corner panel 324B is hingedly connected to a first end of the second lower side panel 120B by a fold line which is somewhat shorter than the fold linel 25B of Figure 3.

A first securing panel 322A/330A is hingedly connected to the first corner panel 324A by a fold line which is somewhat shorter than the fold line 123A of Figure 3. The first securing panel 322A/330A comprises a first upper securing panel portion 330A. One 392A of the opposed side edges of the first upper securing panel portion 330A extends obliquely with respect to the fold line between the first securing panel 322A/330A and the first corner panel 324A. The first upper securing panel portion 330A is separated from the first upper and lower end panels 114A, 114B by a cut line or by a frangible or severable line. An aperture A3 separates the first corner panel 324A from the first upper end panel 114A; the aperture A3 also separates first upper securing panel portion 330A from the first upper side panel 118A. Each of the other three corners of the blank 310 is of substantially the same construction as the first corner formed of panels 234A, 322A, 330A including the aperture A3.

The article carrier 90; 190 may be preassembled before application to a group of articles B. The article carrier 90; 190 may provide a skirt in the form of side panels 18, 20; 118A/118B, 120A/120B and end panels 14, 16; 114A/114B, 116A/116B. The skirt may closely fit the shoulders of the articles B and may compress or encourage a tight grouping of the articles B. The inclined nature of the skirt and the shoulders of the articles B may have a tendency to force the article carrier 90; 190 upwardly of the articles B. The article retention structures RT1 , RT2 provide tabs 40, 42, 44, 46, 70, 72, 74, 76; 140, 142, 144, 146, 170, 172, 174, 176; 240, 246, 276; 340, 346, 376 which engage a projection or undercut in of the articles B, this engagement resists or opposes the upward movement of the article carrier 90; 190 generated by the skirt. In this way the articles B are held in a tightly formed group by the article carrier 90; 190 and the tabs 40, 42, 44, 46, 70, 72, 74, 76; 140, 142, 144, 146, 170, 172, 174, 176; 240, 246, 276; 340, 346, 376 are in secure engagement with articles B.

The blanks 10; 110, 210, 310 include at least a paperboard substrate. The material of the paperboard substrate may be selected from any conventional paperboard, for example, ranging in weight upwardly from about 10pt., preferably from about 16pt. to about 28pt. (0.0287-0.7mm). Examples of such a substrate are: 27 point (pt.) SBS board (solid bleached sulphate paperboard coated on one side, trade name PrintKote®) or CNK® board (Coated Natural Kraft® -an unbleached kraft paperboard having a clay coating on one side, trade name CarrierKote™); 21 point (pt.) SBS board or CNK® board; and E flute or F flute corrugated fiberboard, manufactured by WestRock® Company. The paperboard substrate may be a bleached or unbleached board. The board may be coated on at least one side, optionally the side opposite the lamination, with a conventional coating selected for compatibility with the printing method and board composition.

The blanks 10; 110, 210, 310 may include a tear resistant layer laminated to the paperboard layer. It optionally includes an adhesive layer between the paperboard substrate and the tear resistant layer. The tear resistant layer may be disposed over the uncoated side of the paperboard substrate and may be formed of polymeric material and secured to the substrate. The tear resistant layer imparts toughness to the laminate structure. Suitable tear resistant materials may include, but not be limited to, tear resistant laminated sheet material, e.g., NATRALOCK®, which may include a layer of an n-axially oriented film, e.g., MYLAR®, which is a bi-axially oriented polyester, oriented nylon, cross-laminated polyolefin or high-density polyolefin. The orientation and cross-laminated structure of these materials contribute to the tear resistant characteristic. Also, tear resistance may be attributed to the chemical nature of the tear resistant material such as extruded metallocene-catalysed polyethylene (mPE).

Alternatively, the tear resistant layer may be a layer of linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE). In embodiments where linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) or mPE is used, it is not necessary to incorporate an adhesive layer. Other suitable materials having a high level of tear resistance may also be used.

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

The present disclosure provides a carrier of the top engaging type having improved article retention structures or article top engaging devices.

Embodiments provide an article retention structure RT1 , RT2 in a main, top, or engaging panel 12; 112 having a plurality of tabs 40, 42, 44, 46, 70, 72, 74, 76; 140, 142, 144, 146, 170, 172, 174, 176, 240, 246, 276, 340, 346, 376 disposed about an article receiving aperture A1 , A2. The article retention structure RT1 comprises a first pair of article-engaging tabs 40, 46; 140, 146, 240, 246; 340, 346 separated by a separation element in the form of a first cutline 51 ; 151 ; 251 ; 351. The separation element extends toward a corner of the main or engaging panel 12; 112. A notional line n-n (see Figure 3) collinear with the first cut line 51 ; 151 ; 251; 351 may pass through a corner of the main or engaging panel 12; 112. The corner may be defined by a vertex or intersection between a first fold line 13, 15; 113A, 115A; 213, 215; 313A, 315A, hingedly connecting an end panel 14, 16; 114A/114B, 116A/116B to the engaging panel 12; 112, and a second fold line 17, 19; 117A, 119A; 217, 219; 317A, 319A, hingedly connecting a side panel 18, 20; 118A/118B, 120A/120B to the engaging panel 12; 112. The first cut line 51 ; 151; 251 ; 351 may terminate with a barrier element in the form of a cut 57; 157. The cut 57; 157 forms a barrier, is disposed in the top panel 12; 112, and is spaced from the corner such that the barrier cut 57; 157 hinders the separation element from reaching the corner. The cut 57; 157 may be orthogonal to the first cut line 51 ; 151 ; 251 , 351 and defines a portion of a side edge of the pair of article-engaging tabs 40, 46; 140, 146; 240, 246; 340, 346. The cut 57; 157 may extend, obliquely, between the first fold line 13, 15; 113A, 115A; 213, 215; 313A, 315A and the second fold line 17, 19; 117A, 119A; 217, 219; 317A, 319A. The cut 57; 157 may define, in part, a generally triangular corner portion of the engaging panel 12; 112. The corner portion of the engaging panel 12; 112 serves to couple an end panel 14, 16; 114A/114B, 116A/116B to a respective side panel 18, 20; 118A/118B, 120A/120B. The first cut line 51 ; 151 ; 251 ; 351 defines a portion of a side edge of each of the first pair of article-engaging tabs 40, 46; 140, 146; 240, 246; 340, 346.

Each of the first pair of article-engaging tabs 40, 46; 140, 146 is hingedly connected to the end or side panel 14/18; 114A/118A by a respective hinged connection in the form of a fold line 41 , 47; 141 , 147. The hinged connection may be collinear or coincident with one of the first and second fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19; 113A, 115A, 117A, 119A. The article retention structure RT1 may comprise a second pair of article-engaging tabs 42, 44; 142, 144 separated by a second cutline 55; 155. The second cutline 55; 155 may be collinear with the first cutline 51 ; 151. The second cutline 55; 155 may terminate with a second barrier element in the form of a second cut 59; 159, the second cut 59; 159 may be orthogonal to the second cut line 55; 155 and defines a portion of a side edge of the second pair of tabs 42, 44; 142, 144. The second cutline 55; 155 defines a portion of a side edge of each of the second pair of article-engaging tabs 42, 44; 142, 144.

A first one of the first pair of article-engaging tabs 40, 46; 140, 146 may be disposed opposite a first one of the second pair of article-engaging tabs 42, 44, a second one of the first pair of article-engaging tabs 40, 46 may be disposed opposite a second one of the second pair of article-engaging tabs 42, 44.

The present disclosure also provides an article retention structure RT 1 , RT2 in a main, top, or engaging panel 12; 112 having a plurality of tabs 40, 42, 44, 46, 70, 72, 74, 76; 140, 142, 144, 146, 170, 172, 174, 176; 240, 246, 276; 340, 346, 376 disposed about an article receiving aperture A1 , A2. The article retention structure RT1 comprises a pair of asymmetrical tabs 42, 44; 142, 144 disposed adjacent to each other and separated, at least in part, by a cutline 55; 155; 255; 355. Each tab 42, 44; 142, 144 is defined at least in part by a first radial cut extending from the article receiving aperture A1 to a hinged connection 43, 45 between said tab 42, 44; 142, 144 and the engaging panel 12; 112. Each tab 42, 44; 142, 144 is defined at least in part by a second radial cut extending from the article receiving aperture A1 and terminating at its outer end at a stopper cut 59; 159. The second radial cut being shorter in length than the first radial cut.

The present disclosure also provides an article retention structure RT 1 , RT2 in a main, top, or engaging panel 12; 112 having a plurality of tabs 40, 42, 44, 46, 70, 72, 74, 76; 140, 142, 144, 146, 170, 172, 174, 176; 240, 246, 276; 340, 346, 376 disposed about an article receiving aperture A1 , A2. The article retention structure RT1 comprises a pair of asymmetrical tabs 40/44, 42/46, 70/74; 140/144, 142/146, 170/174 disposed diagonally or diametrically opposite to each other. Each pair of asymmetrical tabs 40/44, 42/46, 70/74; 140/144, 142/146, 170/174 is defined at least in part by a radial cutline 51 , 55, 79, 85; 151 , 155, 179, 185 extending from the article receiving aperture A1 , A2, the radial cutline 51 , 55, 79, 85; 151 , 155, 179, 185 may terminate at its outer end at a stopper cut 57, 59; 157, 159. The pair of asymmetrical tabs 40/44, 42/46, 70/74; 140/144, 142/146, 170/174 together form a configuration which is symmetrical about a center Ci, C2 (see Figure 3) of the article receiving aperture A1 , A2 defined at least by the pair of asymmetrical tabs 40/44, 42/46, 70/74; 140/144, 142/146, 170/174.

Together the pair of asymmetrical tabs 40/44, 42/46; 140/144, 142/146 may form a configuration which is rotationally symmetric, and having an order of rotational symmetry of at least two.

Together the pair of asymmetrical tabs 70/74; 170/174 may form a configuration having mirror symmetry about a notional line N1 (see Figure 3) passing thought the center C2 of the article receiving aperture A2. The notional line N1 may be oriented parallel to hinged connections 71 , 75; 171 , 175 between the pair of asymmetrical tabs 70/74; 170/174 and the engaging panel 12; 112. The notional line N1 may extend perpendicularly from a side or end edge of the engaging panel 12; 112.

A symmetrical tab 76; 176 may be disposed between the pair of asymmetrical tabs 70/74; 170/174 wherein each of the opposite sides of the symmetrical tab 76; 176 is defined by a radial cut 81 , 83; 181 , 183 having its radially outer end free of a stopper cut. The radial cut 81 , 83; 181 , 183 may terminate at an intersection between a hinged connection 77, hinging the symmetrical tab 76; 176 to the engaging panel 12; 112, and a hinged connection 71 , 75; 171, 175, hinging one of the pair of asymmetrical tabs 70/74; 170/174 to the engaging panel 12; 112.

The present disclosure also provides an article carrier 90 comprising a main, top, or engaging panel 12; 112, a side panel 18, 20; 118A/118B, 120A/120B hinged to a side edge of the engaging panel 12; 112, and an end panel 14, 16; 114A/114B, 116A/116B hinged to an end edge of the engaging panel 12; 112. The article carrier 90 comprises a joint flap or securing panel 22A/30A, 22B/30B, 26A/32A, 26B/32B; 122A/130A, 122B/130B, 126A/132A, 126B/132B at an end of a side panel 18, 20; 118, 120. The joint flap 22A/30A, 22B/30B, 26A/32A, 26B/32B; 122A/130A, 122B/130B, 126A/132A, 126B/132B has no direct connection to the adjacent end panel 14, 16; 114, 116 in the blank form. In alternative embodiments, the joint flap 22A/30A, 22B/30B, 26A/32A, 26B/32B; 122A/130A, 122B/130B, 126A/132A, 126B/132B may be frangibly connected to the adjacent end panel 14, 16; 114, 116 in the blank form. The joint flap 22A/30A, 22B/30B, 26A/32A, 26B/32B; 122A/130A, 122B/130B, 126A/132A, 126B/132B has a first fold line 21A, 21 B, 27A, 27B; 121 A, 121 B, 127A, 127B disposed in registry with a second fold line 113B, 115B in the end panel 114A/114B, 116A/116B. An upper portion 30A, 30B, 32A, 32B; 130A, 130B, 132A, 132B of the joint flap 22A/30A, 22B/30B, 26A/32A, 26B/32B; 122A/130A, 122B/130B, 126A/132A, 126B/132B is directly secured to an upper portion 114A, 116A of the end panel 114A/114B, 116A/116B in a face-contacting arrangement therewith.

Advantageously, the adhesive bond between the upper portion 30A, 30B, 32A, 32B; 130A, 130B, 132A, 132B of the joint flap 22A/30A, 22B/30B, 26A/32A, 26B/32B; 122A/130A, 122B/130B, 126A/132A, 126B/132B and the upper portion 114A, 116A of the end panel 114A/114B, 116A/116B may experience lower magnitude shearing forces in use than the adhesive bond between the lower portion 22A, 22B, 26A, 26B; 122A, 122B, 126A, 126B of the joint flap 22A/30A, 22B/30B, 26A/32A, 26B/32B; 122A/130A, 122B/130B, 126A/132A, 126B/132B and the lower portion 114B, 116B of the end panel 114A/114B, 116A/116B.

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, a greater or lesser number of articles and/or arranged in different array configurations.

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

As used herein, the terms "hinged connection” and "fold line” refer to all manner of lines that define hinge features of the blank, facilitate folding portions of the blank with respect to one another, or otherwise indicate optimal panel folding locations for the blank. Any reference to "hinged connection” should not be construed as necessarily referring to a single fold line only; indeed, a hinged connection can be formed from two or more fold lines wherein each of the two or more fold lines may be either straight/li near or curved/curvi linear in shape. When linear fold lines form a hinged connection, they may be disposed parallel with each other or be slightly angled with respect to each other. When curvilinear fold lines form a hinged connection, they may intersect each other to define a shaped panel within the area surrounded by the curvilinear fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may comprise a pair of arched or arcuate fold lines intersecting at two points such that they define an elliptical panel therebetween. A hinged connection may be formed from one or more linear fold lines and one or more curvilinear fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may comprise a combination of a linear fold line and an arched or arcuate fold line which intersect at two points such that they define a half moon-shaped panel therebetween.

The phrase "separation element” as used herein may refer to one of the following: a cut, a slit, a severance line, a frangible line, a line of perforations, a slot, a notch, a recess, a line of short slits, a line of half-cuts, a single half-cut, an interrupted cutline, a line of aligned slits and any combination of the aforesaid options.

The phrase "barrier element” as used herein may refer to one of the following: a cut, a slit, a slot, an aperture, an opening and any combination of the aforesaid options.

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

It should be understood that hinged connections and fold lines can each include elements that are formed in the substrate of the blank including perforations, a line of perforations, a line of short slits, a line of half-cuts, a single half-cut, a cutline, an interrupted cutline, slits, scores, embossed lines, debossed lines, 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.

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

Claims

CLAIMS An article retention structure in an engaging panel of a blank for forming an article carrier, the article retention structure comprising a plurality of article-engaging tabs disposed about an article receiving aperture, the plurality of article-engaging tabs including a first pair of article-engaging tabs separated from each other by a separation element, the separation element extending from the article receiving aperture toward a corner of the engaging panel, the corner being defined by an intersection between a first fold line, hingedly connecting an end panel to the engaging panel, and a second fold line, hingedly connecting a side panel to the engaging panel, wherein a barrier element is disposed in the engaging panel between the corner and the separation element such that the barrier element is spaced from the corner and hinders the separation element from reaching the corner. An article retention structure according to claim 1, wherein the barrier element extends perpendicularly to the separation element. An article retention structure according to claim 1, wherein the barrier element defines a portion of a side edge of each of the article-engaging tabs of the first pair. An article retention structure according to claim 1 , wherein the barrier element extends, obliquely, between the first fold line and the second fold line. An article retention structure according to claim 1, wherein the barrier element defines, in part, a generally triangular corner portion of the engaging panel, the corner portion of the engaging panel coupling the end panel to the side panel. An article retention structure according to claim 1 , wherein the separation element is a first cutline. An article retention structure according to claim 6, wherein a notional line collinear with the first cut line passes through the corner of the engaging panel. An article retention structure according to claim 1 , wherein the barrier element is a cut. An article retention structure according to claim 1 , wherein each of the article-engaging tabs of the first pair is hingedly connected by a respective hinged connection to one of the side panel and the end panel. An article retention structure according to claim 1, wherein each of the article-engaging tabs of the first pair is joined integrally with one of the side panel and the end panel. An article retention structure according to claim 9, wherein the hinged connection of each of the articleengaging tabs of the first pair is coincident with a portion of the one of the first and second fold lines. An article retention structure according to claim 6, wherein the article retention structure comprises a second pair of article-engaging tabs separated from each other by a second cutline. An article retention structure according to claim 12, wherein the second cutline is collinear with the first cutline. An article retention structure according to claim 12, wherein the second cutline terminates with a second barrier element. An article retention structure according to claim 14, wherein the second barrier element extends orthogonally to the second cutline and defines a portion of a side edge of each of the article-engaging tabs of the second pair. An article retention structure according to claim 12, wherein the second cutline defines a portion of a side edge of each of the article-engaging tabs of the second pair. An article retention structure according to claim 12, wherein a first one of the article-engaging tabs of the first pair is disposed opposite a first one of the article-engaging tabs of the second pair and a second one of the article-engaging tabs of the first pair is disposed opposite a second one of the article-engaging tabs of the second pair. A top-engaging article carrier for engaging at least one article, the carrier comprising: an engaging panel having at least one article retention structure according to claim 1 ; a pair of side panels hingedly connected the engaging panel along opposed side edge thereof; and a pair of end panels hingedly connected the engaging panel along opposed end edge thereof. An article retention structure in an engaging panel of a blank for forming an article carrier, the article retention structure comprising a plurality of tabs disposed about an article receiving aperture, the plurality of tabs comprising a pair of asymmetrical tabs disposed adjacent to each other and separated, at least in part, by a separation element, each of the asymmetrical tabs being defined, at least in part, by a first radial cut extending from the article receiving aperture to a hinged connection between the engaging panel and one of the asymmetrical tabs, wherein each of the asymmetrical tabs is defined at least in part by a second radial cut extending from the article receiving aperture and terminating at its outer end at a barrier element, the second radial cut being shorter in length than the first radial cut, said separation element comprising either one of the first and second radial cuts. A top-engaging article carrier for engaging at least one article, the carrier comprising an engaging panel having at least one article retention structure according to claim 19. An article retention structure in an engaging panel of a blank for forming an article carrier, the article retention structure comprising a plurality of tabs disposed about an article receiving aperture, the plurality of tabs comprising a pair of asymmetrical tabs disposed diametrically opposite to each other, each of the asymmetrical tabs being defined, at least in part, by a radial cutline extending from the article receiving aperture, wherein the radial cutline terminates at its outer end at a barrier element, the asymmetrical tabs together form a configuration which is symmetrical about a center of the article receiving aperture defined at least by the asymmetrical tabs. A top-engaging article carrier for engaging at least one article, the carrier comprising an engaging panel having at least one article retention structure according to claim 21. An article retention structure in an engaging panel of a blank for forming an article carrier, the article retention structure comprising a plurality of tabs disposed about an article receiving aperture, the plurality of tabs comprising a pair of asymmetrical tabs disposed diametrically opposite to each other, each of the asymmetrical tabs being defined, at least in part, by a radial cutline extending from the article receiving aperture, wherein the radial cutline terminates at its outer end at a barrier element, wherein the asymmetrical tabs in combination form a configuration having mirror symmetry about a notional line passing thought a center of the article receiving aperture defined at least by the asymmetrical tabs. An article retention structure according to claim 23, wherein the notional line is oriented parallel to hinged connections each connecting between the engaging panel and one of the asymmetrical tabs. An article retention structure according to claim 23, wherein the notional line extends perpendicularly to a side or end edge of the engaging panel. An article retention structure according to claim 23, wherein a third tab is disposed between the asymmetrical tabs, and wherein the opposite sides of the third tab are defined by radial cuts respectively, each of the radial cuts having its radially outer end free of a barrier element. An article retention structure according to claim 26, wherein each of the radial cuts terminates on a hinged connection hinging one of the asymmetrical tabs to the engaging panel. A top-engaging article carrier for engaging at least one article, the carrier comprising an engaging panel having at least one article retention structure according to claim 23. An article carrier for engaging at least one article, the carrier comprising an engaging panel, a side panel hingedly connected to a side edge of the engaging panel, and an end panel hingedly connected to an end edge of the engaging panel, the article carrier comprises a joint flap at an end of the side panel, the joint flap has no direct connection to the end panel when the carrier is in the blank form, the joint flap has a first fold line disposed in registry with a second fold line in the end panel, an upper portion of the joint flap is directly secured to an upper portion of the end panel in a face-contacting arrangement therewith. An article carrier for engaging at least one article, the carrier comprising an engaging panel, a side panel hingedly connected to a side edge of the engaging panel, and an end panel hingedly connected to an end edge of the engaging panel, the article carrier comprises a joint flap at an end of the side panel, the joint flap is frangibly connected to the end panel when the carrier is in the blank form, the joint flap has a first fold line disposed in registry with a second fold line in the end panel, an upper portion of the joint flap is directly secured to an upper portion of the end panel in a face-contacting arrangement therewith. A blank for forming a top-engaging carrier, the blank comprising: an engaging panel; a side panel hingedly connected to a side edge of the engaging panel; an end panel hingedly connected to an end edge of the engaging panel; and a joint flap at an end of the side panel, wherein the joint flap has no direct connection to the end panel, the joint flap has a first fold line arranged to be disposed in registry with a second fold line in the end panel when the blank is erected into a top-engaging carrier in which an upper portion of the joint flap is directly secured to an upper portion of the end panel in a face-contacting arrangement therewith. A blank for forming a top-engaging carrier, the blank comprising: an engaging panel; a side panel hingedly connected to a side edge of the engaging panel; an end panel hingedly connected to an end edge of the engaging panel; and a joint flap at an end of a side panel, wherein the joint flap is frangibly connected to the end panel, the joint flap has a first fold line arranged to be disposed in registry with a second fold line in the end panel when the blank is erected into a top-engaging carrier in which an upper portion of the joint flap is directly secured to an upper portion of the end panel in a face-contacting arrangement therewith. A blank for forming a top-engaging carrier, the blank comprising: an engaging panel having at least one article retention structure comprising a plurality of tabs disposed about an article receiving aperture, the plurality of tabs comprising a pair of asymmetrical tabs disposed diametrically opposite to each other, each of the asymmetrical tabs being defined, at least in part, by a radial cutline extending from the article receiving aperture, wherein the radial cutline terminates at its outer end at a barrier element, the asymmetrical tabs together form a configuration which is symmetrical about a center of the article receiving aperture defined at least by the pair of asymmetrical tabs. A blank for forming a top-engaging carrier, the blank comprising an engaging panel having at least one article retention structure comprising a plurality of tabs disposed about an article receiving aperture, the plurality of tabs comprising a pair of asymmetrical tabs disposed adjacent to each other and separated, at least in part, by a separation element, each of the asymmetrical tabs being defined, at least in part, by a first radial cut extending from the article receiving aperture to a hinged connection between the engaging panel and one of the asymmetrical tabs, wherein each of the asymmetrical tabs is defined at least in part by a second radial cut extending from the article receiving aperture and terminating at its outer end at a barrier element, the second radial cut being shorter in length than the first radial cut, the separation element comprising either one of the first and second radial cuts. A blank for forming a top-engaging carrier, the blank comprising: an engaging panel having at least one article retention structure; a pair of side panels hingedly connected the engaging panel along opposed side edge thereof; and a pair of end panels hingedly connected the engaging panel along opposed end edge thereof; wherein the at least one article retention structure comprises a plurality of article-engaging tabs disposed about an article receiving aperture, the plurality of article-engaging tabs includes a first pair of tabs separated from each other by a separation element, the separation element extends from the article receiving aperture toward a corner of the engaging panel, the corner is defined by an intersection between a first fold line, hingedly connecting one of the end panels to the engaging panel, and a second fold line, hingedly connecting one of the side panels to the engaging panel, wherein a barrier element is disposed in the engaging panel between the corner and the separation element such that the barrier element is spaced from the corner and hinders the separation element from reaching the corner.