CN111433136A

CN111433136A - Carton and blank therefor

Info

Publication number: CN111433136A
Application number: CN201880079545.2A
Authority: CN
Inventors: P.布兰; V.法尔纳
Original assignee: WestRock Packaging Systems LLC
Current assignee: WestRock Packaging Systems LLC
Priority date: 2017-10-09
Filing date: 2018-09-27
Publication date: 2020-07-17
Also published as: KR20200066308A; TWI736799B; MX2020004008A; TW201925045A; WO2019074680A1; CA3078236A1; US20210198021A1

Abstract

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to cartons for packaging a plurality of flanged articles (B), blanks for forming the cartons, and methods of packaging the articles. The carrier includes a top panel (18) and a pair of side panels (14, 22), the side panels (14, 22) being coupled to the top panel (18) to define an interior space for receiving at least a portion of each article. The carrier may include a first stabilizer (52 a, 54 a) made from the top panel such that the first stabilizer at least partially defines a handle aperture in the top panel. The first stabilizer is hingedly connected to the top panel so as to be inwardly foldable into the interior space to provide a finger pad. The first stabilizer comprises a pair of hook panels hingedly connected together along a central fold line. The hook panel includes engagement edges for engaging the underside of the flanges of a pair of adjacent flanged articles, respectively.

Description

Carton and blank therefor

Technical Field

The present invention relates to a carton and a blank for forming the carton. More particularly, but not exclusively, the invention relates to a carrier of the wrap-around type having an article retaining structure for retaining an article therein.

Background

In the field of packaging, it is known to provide cartons for carrying a plurality of articles. Cartons are well known in the art and are useful for enabling a consumer 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 result in as little waste as possible in the material from which they are formed. A further consideration is the strength of the carton and its adaptability for holding and transporting heavy weight articles. Desirably, the contents of the carton are secured within the carton.

The present invention seeks to provide improvements in the field of cartons generally formed from paperboard or the like.

Disclosure of Invention

A first aspect of the invention provides a carrier for packaging a plurality of flanged articles. The carrier includes a top panel and a pair of side panels coupled to the top panel to define an interior space for receiving at least a portion of each article. The carrier may include a first stabilizer that is made from the top panel such that the first stabilizer at least partially defines a handle aperture in the top panel. The first stabilizer is hingedly connected to the top panel so as to be inwardly foldable into the interior space to provide a finger pad. The first stabilizer comprises a pair of hook panels hingedly connected together along a central fold line. The hook panel includes an engagement edge for engaging an underside of a flange of each of a pair of adjacent flanged articles, respectively.

Optionally, the top panel comprises a second stabilizer made from the top panel such that the second stabilizer partially defines the handle aperture in the top panel, the second stabilizer being hingedly connected to the top panel opposite the first stabilizer so as to be foldable inwardly into the interior space to provide a second finger pad, the second stabilizer comprising a second pair of hanger panels hingedly connected together along a central fold line, each of the second pair of hanger panels comprising an engagement edge for engaging an underside of a flange of a respective one of the second pair of adjacently disposed flanged articles.

Optionally, the first or second stabilizer comprises a triangular panel coupling the pair of hook panels to the top panel.

Optionally, each of the hook panels comprises a wing portion at least partially defining one of the engagement edges.

Optionally, each of the hook panels includes a recess along a side edge thereof, and the recesses at least partially define the wing portions.

Optionally, each of the hook panels includes a recess along a side edge thereof, and the recess at least partially defines one of the engagement edges.

Optionally, the recess is formed by an aperture made from the top panel.

Optionally, the top panel includes a second finger pad formed from the top panel such that the second finger pad partially defines the handle aperture in the top panel, the second finger pad being hingedly connected to the top panel opposite the first stabilizer so as to be inwardly foldable into the interior space.

Optionally, the top panel comprises a third stabilizer formed from the top panel such that the third stabilizer partially defines at least a portion of the second handle aperture in the top panel, the third stabilizer being hingedly connected to the top panel so as to be foldable inwardly into the interior space to provide a third finger pad, the second stabilizer comprising a third pair of hook panels hingedly connected together along a central fold line, each of the third pair of hook panels comprising an engagement edge for engaging an underside of a flange of a respective one of a third pair of adjacently disposed flanged articles.

Optionally, the top panel comprises a fourth finger pad made from the top panel such that the fourth finger pad partially defines the second handle aperture in the top panel, the fourth finger pad hingedly connected to the top panel opposite the third stabilizer so as to be inwardly foldable into the interior space.

A second aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for at least one flanged article. The carrier includes a top panel and a pair of side panels coupled to the top panel to define an interior space for receiving at least a portion of at least one flanged article. The carrier may comprise a first article holder having a first aperture made from at least one of the side panels. The first aperture is defined by at least a lower edge, the lower edge including: a pair of engagement edges for engaging the flanges of the first flanged article; and a recess extending between the engagement edges for receiving a portion of the first flanged article.

Optionally, the carrier comprises a bevel panel interconnecting the one of the top panel and the side panel, and wherein the first aperture is made from the bevel panel.

Optionally, the first article holder comprises a protrusion defined in part by the first aperture, and wherein the protrusion interrupts the hinged connection between the top panel and the one of the side panels, thereby being integral with the top panel, the protrusion being arranged to cover a portion of the first flanged article received in the first aperture.

Optionally, the carrier further comprises a second item holder having a second aperture made from at least the other of the side panels, the second aperture being opposite the first aperture, the second aperture being defined by at least a lower edge, the lower edge comprising: a pair of engagement edges for engaging the flanges of the second flanged article; and a recess extending between the engagement edges for receiving a portion of the second flanged article.

Optionally, the carrier further comprises a stabilizer formed from the top panel such that the stabilizer defines a handle aperture in the top panel, the stabilizer being hingedly connected to the top panel so as to be foldable inwardly into the interior space to provide the finger pad, the stabilizer comprising a pair of hook panels hingedly connected together along a central fold line, the hook panels including engaging edges for engaging an underside of a flange of each of the first and second flanged articles, respectively.

Optionally, the stabilizer urges each of the first and second flanged articles into engagement with a respective one of the first and second article holders.

Optionally, the stabilizer maintains each of the first and second flanged articles in engagement with a respective one of the first and second article holders.

A third aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming a carrier. The blank comprises a plurality of panels for forming the walls of the carrier. The plurality of panels define an interior space in the assembled carrier for receiving at least a portion of each article. The plurality of panels includes a top panel, a first side panel, and a second side panel. The first and second side panels are coupled to the top panel. The blank includes a first stabilizer that is made from the top panel such that the first stabilizer at least partially defines a handle aperture in the top panel. The first stabilizer is hingedly connected to the top panel so as to be inwardly foldable into the interior space to provide a finger pad. The first stabilizer comprises a pair of hook panels hingedly connected together along a central fold line. The hook panel includes engagement edges for engaging the underside of the flanges of a pair of adjacent flanged articles, respectively.

A fourth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming a carrier. The blank comprises a plurality of panels for forming the walls of the carrier. The plurality of panels define an interior space in the assembled carrier for receiving at least a portion of each article. The plurality of panels includes a top panel, a first side panel, and a second side panel. The first and second side panels are coupled to the top panel. The blank includes a first article holder having a first aperture made from at least one of the first side panel and the second side panel. The first aperture is defined by at least a lower edge, the lower edge including: a pair of engagement edges for engaging the flanges of the first flanged article; and a recess extending between the engagement edges for receiving a portion of the first flanged article.

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

Drawings

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

fig. 1 is a top plan view of a blank for forming a carton according to a first embodiment;

fig. 2 is a top perspective view of the carton formed from the blank of fig. 1;

fig. 3 is a further perspective view of a portion of the carton of fig. 2 illustrating a retaining structure;

fig. 4 is a perspective view of an end of the carton of fig. 2;

fig. 5A is a side view of the carton of fig. 2;

fig. 5B illustrates a portion of a side of the carton shown in fig. 5A;

fig. 6A and 6B are perspective views illustrating stages of erection of the carton formed from the blank of fig. 1;

fig. 7 is a top plan view of a blank for forming a carton according to a second embodiment;

fig. 8 is a top perspective view of the carton formed from the blank of fig. 7;

fig. 9A, 9B, 10A, 10B, and 11 are perspective views of portions of the carton of fig. 8, illustrating a retaining structure;

fig. 12 is a top plan view of a blank for forming a carton according to a third embodiment;

fig. 13 is a top perspective view of the carton formed from the blank of fig. 12; and

fig. 14A and 14B are internal perspective views of portions of the carton of fig. 13 showing a retaining structure.

Detailed Description

Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of packages, blanks, and cartons are disclosed herein. It is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely exemplary of the ways in which certain aspects of the invention may be practiced and do not represent an exhaustive list of all of the ways in which the invention may be practiced. As used herein, the word "exemplary" is used broadly to refer to an embodiment that is used as a drawing, specimen, model, or pattern. Indeed, it will be understood that the packages, blanks, and cartons described herein can 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 have not necessarily been 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 present invention.

Referring to fig. 1, there is shown a plan view of a blank 10, the blank 10 being capable of being formed into a carton or carrier 90, as shown in fig. 2, for receiving and carrying a group of primary products, such as but not limited to flanged containers, cups, or yogurt cans, hereinafter referred to as articles B, as shown in fig. 2. The blank 10 forms a secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package. Fig. 7 and 12 show plan views of

alternative blanks

110, 210, the

alternative blanks

110, 210 being capable of forming the cartons or

carriers

190, 290 shown in fig. 8 and 13, respectively. The carton or

carrier

190, 290 is capable of receiving and carrying a group of primary products or articles B, such as, but not limited to, flanged containers, cups, or yogurt cans.

In the embodiments described in detail herein, for non-limiting purposes of illustrating various features of the invention, the terms "carton" and "carrier" refer to the

containers

90, 190, 290 for engaging and carrying the articles B, such as the primary product containers B. It is contemplated that the teachings of the present invention may be applied to a variety of product containers B, which may or may not be tapered and/or cylindrical. Other exemplary containers include bottles (e.g., metal, glass, or plastic bottles), cans (e.g., aluminum cans), cans, pouches, bags, and the like.

The blank 10, 110, 210 is formed from a sheet of suitable substrate. It should be understood that as used herein, the term "suitable substrate" includes all forms of foldable sheet material, such as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, and the like. It will be appreciated that one or other number of blanks may be employed where appropriate, for example, to provide a carrier structure described in more detail below.

The packaging structures or

cartons

90, 190, 290 described herein may be formed from a sheet of material (such as paperboard) that may be made or coated with a material to increase its strength an example of such sheet material is tear resistant NATRA L OCK paperboard made from West rock Company it should be noted that tear resistant material may be provided by more than one layer to help improve the tear resistance of the package.

In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 10 is configured to form a carton or carrier 90 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles B, in the embodiment shown in fig. 1-6, the arrangement is a m × n matrix or array having two rows (m 2) and two columns (n 2), in the illustrated embodiment, two rows of four articles B are provided and the articles B are individual 100 g cups with lids, in the embodiment shown in fig. 7-11, the arrangement is a3 × 2 matrix or array, in the illustrated embodiment, three rows of two articles B are provided and the articles B are individual 135 g cups with lids, in the embodiment shown in fig. 12-14B, the arrangement is a3 × 2 matrix or array, in the illustrated embodiment, three rows of two articles B are provided and the articles B are individual 170 g cups with film lids formed from a metal or plastic material, such as, but not limited to, a polyethylene terephthalate (polyester-terephthalate) blank, optionally, 10, 110, 210, and other arrangements configured for packaging different article types and/or carrier sizes.

Turning to fig. 1, a blank 10 for forming a carton 90 according to a first embodiment is shown. The blank 10 includes a plurality of

primary panels

12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 for forming a tubular structure. The plurality of

primary panels

12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 includes a first base panel 12, a first side panel 14, a first bevel or corner panel 16, a top panel 18, a second first bevel or corner 20, a second side panel 22, and a second base panel 24. A plurality of

panels

12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 may be arranged in a linear series, hinged to each other by

respective fold lines

13, 15, 17, 19, 21, 23.

The blank 10 is foldable to form a package 90, as shown in fig. 2. The first base panel 12 and the second base panel 24 can be joined to one another in an overlapping relationship to form the composite base wall 12/24 of the carton 90. The blank 10 may include a complementary locking mechanism for securing the second base panel 24 to the first base panel 12. The first base panel 12 may comprise at least one first portion F of a complementary locking mechanism. The second base panel 24 may comprise at least one second portion M of a complementary locking mechanism. In the illustrated embodiment, the first base panel 12 includes a plurality of female tabs F that define openings in the first base panel 12. The second base panel 24 comprises a plurality of male tabs M, and the opening in the first base panel 12 is configured to receive a respective one of the male tabs M. The female tab F is arranged to be displaced away from the first base panel 12 to form an opening and bear against the male tab M when received therein.

Optionally, the first base panel 12 and the second base panel 24 may include at least one first aperture a 1. In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first base panel 12 and the second base panel 20 includes two first apertures a 1. A first aperture a1 may be employed to facilitate construction of the carton 90. The packaging machine component may engage the first aperture a1 to enable the plurality of

panels

12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 to be secured around a group of articles B. The first aperture a1 may also be employed to facilitate alignment of the first base panel 12 and the second base panel 24 relative to each other, or to align a first portion of a complementary locking mechanism with a second portion of a complementary locking mechanism. The complementary locking mechanisms shown and described are entirely optional. The first base panel 12 may include a pair of cuts or recesses R made from its free end edge, opposite the hinged connection defined by the fold line 13 between the first base panel 12 and the first side panel 14. When the first base panel 12 and the second base panel 24 are aligned with one another in at least a partially overlapping relationship, the recess R is arranged to mate with the first aperture a1 provided in the second base panel 24.

The blank 10 may include at least one root engaging structure 40 for engaging a root or lower portion of the article B. The blank 10 shown in fig. 1 includes four root engaging structures 40, each provided for engaging a respective article B. Each of the root engagement structures 40 is substantially similar in construction and will be described with reference to the root engagement structure provided in the second side panel 22.

The root engaging structure 40 may include a first cut line or severable line 41. The first cut line 41 interrupts the fold line 23, which fold line 23 hingedly connects the second side panel 22 to the second base panel 24. The first cutting line 41 may be curved or arcuate in shape. A second cut or severance line 43 extends from the first cut line 41; a second cut or severance line 43 may extend from the middle or center of the first cut line 41. The second cut or severance line 43 may be arranged substantially perpendicular to the fold line 23. The root engagement structure 40 may comprise a pair of divergently arranged cutting

lines

45a, 45 b. The

cutting lines

45a, 45b are arranged to diverge towards the first cutting line 41. In this way, the cut lines 41, 43, 45a, 45b define a pair of tabs that are displaceable or foldable relative to the second side panel 22. It will be appreciated that the

cut lines

45a, 45b may be replaced by fold or score lines to provide a hinged connection between each tab and the second side panel 22. Each of the pair of tabs may be substantially triangular in shape.

The blank 10 includes at least one top engaging structure or article holder T for engaging a top or upper portion of an article B. The blank 10 shown in fig. 1 includes four top engaging structures T, each provided for engaging a respective article B. Each of the top engagement structures T is substantially similar in construction and will be described with reference to the top engagement structure T provided in the first bevel panel 16.

Each of the top engagement structures T includes an opening defined by a second aperture a 2. The second aperture a2 is formed from at least the first bevel panel 16. In the illustrated embodiment, the second aperture a2 is made partially from the first bevel panel 16, partially from the first side panel 14, and partially from the top panel 18. The second aperture a2 interrupts the fold line 17 between the top panel 18 and the first bevel panel 16. The second aperture a2 interrupts the fold line 15 between the first side panel 14 and the first bevel panel 16. The second aperture a2 includes a recess defining a central edge C1, which may be curved or arcuate in shape C1. The second aperture a2 includes a pair of engagement edges E1, E2 (see fig. 6A and 6B) disposed on opposite sides of a central edge C1. Each of the pair of engagement edges E1, E2 may be linear in shape.

The top engagement structure T includes a projection P that extends from and is integrally formed with a side edge of the top panel 18. The protrusion P is formed from a material that would otherwise form one of the first and

second bevel panels

16, 20. In this way, the protrusion P may be considered to be made from one of the first and

second bevel panels

16, 20. The protrusion forms a protective top cover over the portion of article B received in second aperture a2, see fig. 2.

The blank 10 includes at least one retaining

structure

50a, 50b made from the top panel 18 or defined within the top panel 18. In the embodiment shown in fig. 1, a pair of retaining

structures

50a, 50b are provided, the retaining

structures

50a, 50b being centrally located with respect to the top panel 18.

The retaining

structures

50a, 50b are spaced from the free end edges of the top panel 18 and from the side edges of the top panel 18 defined by the fold lines 17, 19.

The retaining structures 50a, 50B may be spaced from the side and end edges of the top panel 18 by a distance at least equal to or greater than half the maximum diameter of the packaged article B.

The retaining structures 50a, 50B may be spaced from the side edges (defined by fold lines 17, 19) of the top panel 18 by a distance at least equal to or greater than one quarter (1/2 n-where n is the number of columns of articles B) of the distance between the fold line 17 and the fold line 19 (the width of the top panel 18).

The retaining structures 50a, 50B may be spaced from each of the opposing free end edges of the top panel 18 by a distance at least equal to or greater than one quarter of the distance between the opposing free end edges of the top panel 18 (the length of the top panel 18) (1/2 m-where m is the number of rows of articles B).

The blank 10 includes a first retention structure 50a and a second retention structure 50 b. The first retaining structure 50a includes a first tab 52a/54a, which first tab 52a/54a is hingedly connected to the top panel 18 by fold line 51 a. First tab 52a/54a includes a central or longitudinal fold line 53a defining a first portion 52a and a second portion 54 a.

The second retaining structure 50b includes a second tab 52b/54b, which second tab 52b/54b is hingedly connected to the top panel 18 by fold line 51 b. Second tab 52b/54b includes a central or longitudinal fold line 53b defining a first portion 52b and a second portion 54 b.

The blank 10 includes two pairs of apertures A3, a4, the first pair of apertures A3, a4 partially defining the first tab 52a/54a of the first retention feature 50 a. Each of the first pair of apertures A3, A4 defines a recessed portion in the first tab 52a/54 a. Each of the first pair of apertures A3, a4 at least partially defines a lateral projection or

wing portion

56a, 58a, which lateral projection or

wing portion

56a, 58a provides a shoulder for engagement with an article B disposed in the carton 90.

The second pair of apertures A3, A4 defines, in part, the second tabs 52b/54b of the second retaining structure 50 b. Each of the second pair of apertures A3, A4 defines a recessed portion in the second tab 52b/54 b. Each of the second pair of apertures A3, a4 at least partially defines a lateral projection or shoulder 56B, 58B for engaging an article B disposed in the carton 90.

First tab 52a/54a and second tab 52b/54b may each include a pair of

fold lines

55a, 57a, as shown in fig. 3, the pair of

fold lines

55a, 57a being divergently arranged with respect to one another. The pair of

fold lines

55a, 57a may facilitate folding of the first tab 52a/54a relative to the top panel 18, and similar fold lines facilitate folding of the second tab 52b/54b relative to the top panel 18.

The pair of

fold lines

55a, 57a define a substantially triangular region of the first tab 52a/54a adjacent the top panel 18 and may facilitate folding of the first tab 52a/54a about the fold line 53a such that the first portion 52a and the second portion 54a define a valley or trough.

Turning to the configuration of the carton 90, as shown in fig. 2, the carton 90 may be formed by a series of sequential folding operations in a straight line machine such that the carton 90 is not required to be rotated or inverted to complete its configuration. The folding process is not limited to that described below and may be modified according to particular manufacturing requirements.

A group of articles B is assembled, four articles B are arranged in a2 × 2 array in the embodiment shown in fig. 2 the top panel 18 of the blank 10 is disposed over the group of articles B to provide the top wall 18 of the carton 90.

The first and

second bevel panels

16, 20 are folded about fold lines 17, 19, respectively, about opposite sides of a group of articles B relative to the top panel 18 so as to be disposed about the upper portions of said articles B, the flange or skirt L of each article B being received in a respective one of the second apertures a2 of the top engaging structure T.

The free edges of the first and

second side walls

14, 22 defined by the second aperture a2 are disposed below the flange L of the article B.

Fig. 6A and 6B illustrate erection of the carton 90 from below. Fig. 6A shows the second side wall 22 before folding about the fold line 21. Fig. 6B shows the second side wall 22 after folding about the fold line 21.

The recessed portion of the second aperture a2 enables or facilitates folding of the second side wall 22 and may provide sufficient clearance for the second side wall 22 to pass the flange L of article B.

The recessed portion of the second aperture a2 may also allow the second side wall 22 to be folded further about the fold line 21. In embodiments in which the article B is tapered in shape (i.e., its width or diameter decreases toward the base), the recessed portion of the second aperture a2 may allow the lower region of the second side wall 22 to be closer to the root of the article B for increased securement of the article B within the carton 90. The recess portion receives a portion of the article B.

The recessed portion of second aperture a2 may also allow a greater proportion of flange L to pass through second aperture a 2.

The engagement edges E1, E2 engage with a flange L of article B received in the second aperture and may support or secure article B, as shown in fig. 5B.

The first base panel 12 is folded about fold line 13 so as to be disposed adjacent the base of a group of articles B. The second base panel 24 is then folded about the fold line 23 into at least partially overlapping relationship with the first base panel 12. The first base panel 12 and the second base panel 24 are secured together. Each of the male tabs M is displaced inwardly out of the plane of the second base panel 24. In this case, each of the female tabs F is displaced inwardly, creating a corresponding opening in the first base panel 12. The male tabs M are received in respective ones of the openings, thereby locking the first and

second base panels

12, 24 together. In this way, a tubular structure is formed around a group of articles B.

The erected carton 90 is shown in fig. 2-5A.

Fig. 2 shows the carton 90 from above before the application of the retaining

structures

50a, 50 b. In fig. 3, portions of the top panel 18 of the carton 90 are shown with the retaining

structures

50a, 50b in the applied condition. The first tab 52a/54a and the second tab 52b/54b are folded inwardly with respect to the top panel 18. First tab 52a/54a and second tab 52b/54b are folded relative to each other about

fold lines

53a, 53 b.

The first wing portion 56a of the first tab 52a/54a engages the flange L of the first article B the second wing portion 58a of the first tab 52a/54a engages the flange L of the second article B adjacent to the first article B.

The first wing portion 56B of the second tab 52B/54B is engaged with the flange L of the third article B, which is opposite the first article B, the second wing portion 58B of the second tab 52B/54B is engaged with the flange L of the fourth article B, which is adjacent to the third article B and opposite the second article B.

Each retaining structure 50a, 50B secures or locks a pair of articles B within the carton 90. The retaining structures 50a, 50B engage the interior sides or edges of the article B (best shown in fig. 4).

The angled shape of first and second tabs 52a/54a, 52B/54B may be used to push or urge article B outwardly of engagement therewith, as indicated by directional arrows D1, D2 in fig. 4, in which case article B is securely retained in top engaging structure T. In this manner, the retention structures 50a, 50B may provide a stabilizer or support for the article B.

In normal use, the

wing portions

56a, 58a, 56b, 58b of the retaining

structures

50a, 50b engage or grip with the underside of the flange of the article. In this case, the

wing portions

56a, 58a, 56B, 58B hold the retaining structure 50a, 50B in place between a pair of articles B.

The angled shape of first and second tabs 52a/54a, 52B/54B may hinder or prevent inadvertent disengagement of article B from its respective top engagement structure T.

The opening created in the top panel 18 by folding the retaining

structures

50a, 50b internally to the carton 90 can be used as a handle aperture, and each of the first and second tabs 52a/54a, 52b/54b can be employed as a finger pad.

Referring now to fig. 7-14B, additional embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. In the second and third embodiments shown, similar reference numerals are used to denote similar components where possible, although the prefixes "100", "200" have been added to indicate that these features belong to the second and third embodiments, respectively. The additional embodiment shares many common features with the first embodiment, and therefore only the differences from the embodiment shown in fig. 1 to 6B will be described in detail.

Turning to fig. 7, a blank 110 for forming a carton 190 according to a second embodiment (see fig. 8) is shown.

The blank 110 includes a plurality of

primary panels

112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124 for forming a tubular structure. The plurality of

primary panels

112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124 includes a first base panel 112, a first side panel 114, a first bevel or corner panel 116, a top panel 118, a second first bevel or corner 120, a second side panel 122, and a second base panel 124. A plurality of

panels

112, 114, 116, 118, 120, 122, 124 may be arranged in a linear series, hinged to each other by

respective fold lines

113, 115, 117, 119, 121, 123.

The blank 110 is adapted to receive six articles b arranged in a3 × 2 matrix or array the blank 110 includes six top engaging structures T.

The blank 110 includes three

retention features

150a, 150b, 150c made from the top panel 118.

The first retaining structure 150a includes a first tab 152a/154a, which first tab 152a/154a is hingedly connected to the top panel 118 by fold line 151 a. The first tab 152a/154a includes a central or longitudinal fold line 153a defining a first portion 152a and a second portion 154 a.

The blank 110 includes three pairs of apertures A3, a4, a first pair of apertures A3, a4 partially defining the first tab 152a/154a of the first retention feature 150 a. Each of the first pair of apertures A3, A4 defines a recessed portion in the first tab 152a/154 a. Each of the first pair of apertures A3, a4 at least partially defines a lateral projection or

wing portion

156a, 158a that provides a shoulder for engaging one or more articles B disposed in the carton 190.

The second retaining structure 150b includes a second tab 152b/154b that is arranged similarly to the first tab 152a/154 a. The second tab 152b/154b is disposed opposite the first tab 152a/154a in a similar arrangement as the first embodiment. The first and second retaining structures 150a and 150B are disposed in vertical alignment with the interstices between the first set of four adjacent articles B. Four adjacent articles B may be formed from a pair of articles B in the central column and a pair of articles B in the endmost column adjacent the first end of the carton 190.

The third retaining structure 150c includes a third tab 152c/154c that is arranged similarly to the first tab 152a/154 a.

The third retaining structure 150c is disposed in vertical alignment with the interstices between the second set of four adjacent articles B. The second set of four adjacent articles B may be formed by a pair of articles B in the central column and a pair of articles B in the endmost column adjacent the second end of the carton 190. A pair of items B in the central column is shared by the first and second groups such that it belongs to either the first or second group of items.

Optionally, the blank 110 includes a handle flap or finger pad 160. The handle flap 160 includes a handle tab 162/164, the handle tab 162/164 including a first portion 162, the first portion 162 hingedly connected to a second portion 164 by a fold line 163. The handle flap 160 includes a pair of

fold lines

165, 167. The pair of fold lines 165, 167b are divergently arranged with respect to each other. The pair of

fold lines

165, 167 can facilitate folding of the handle tab 162/164 relative to the top panel 118.

The pair of

fold lines

165, 167 define a substantially triangular region of the handle tab 162/164 adjacent the top panel 118 and can facilitate folding of the handle tab 162/164 about the fold line 163 such that the first portion 162 and the second portion 164 define a valley or groove.

The handle flap 160 is disposed opposite the third retaining structure 150 c.

The handle flap 160 can be employed with the second retaining structure 150b to form a carrying handle. The user can engage the handle flap 160 with a thumb or finger and engage the second retaining structure 150b with another thumb or finger to grasp the carton 190 and transport the carton 190, as shown in fig. 8. It will be understood that the user may otherwise carry the carton 190 by engaging one or more of the first, second, or

third retaining structures

150a, 150b, 150c and/or the handle flap 160.

Fig. 9A shows the third retention feature 150c and the handle flap 160. As indicated by directional arrow D4, the third retaining structure 150c is partially folded inwardly into the interior of the carton 190 and into the void between the plurality of articles disposed with the carton 190.

Fig. 9B shows the third retaining structure 150c engaged with each of a pair of adjacent articles B within the carton 190-the third tab 152c/154c has been folded inwardly, as indicated by directional arrow D5, to engage the article B-the first wing portion 156c is shown below the flange L of one of the pair of articles B-the flange L is received in a recess in a side edge of the first portion 152c of the third tab 152c/154 c-the second wing portion 158c (not visible in fig. 9B) is similarly positioned-fig. 10A, 10B, and 11 show other views of the retaining structures 150A, 150B, 150c engaged with the articles B in the carton 190.

Turning to fig. 12, a blank 210 for forming a carton 290 according to a third embodiment (see fig. 13) is shown. The blank 210 includes a plurality of

primary panels

212, 214, 218, 222, 224 for forming a tubular structure.

The plurality of

primary panels

212, 214, 218, 222, 224 includes a first base panel 212, a first side panel 214, a top panel 218, a second side panel 222, and a second base panel 224. A plurality of

panels

212, 214, 218, 222, 224 may be arranged in a linear series, hinged to each other by

respective fold lines

213, 217, 219, 223.

The blank 210 is adapted to receive six articles b arranged in a3 × 2 matrix or array the blank 210 includes six top engagement structures T each of the top engagement structures T is substantially similar in construction and will be described with reference to the top engagement structures T provided in the second side panel 222.

Each of the top engagement structures T includes an opening defined by a cut line or severable line 230. Cut lines 230 are made from at least the second side panel 222. Optionally, the cut line 230 is curved or arcuate in shape. The cut line 230 interrupts the fold line 219 between the top panel 218 and the second side panel 222. A pair of

other cut lines

232, 234 may extend radially outward from cut line 230. When the second side panel 222 is folded about fold line 219 relative to the top panel 218, the cut line 230 opens to form an opening that can receive a portion of the article B.

The cut lines 230 each define a tab that extends from and is integrally formed with a side edge of the top panel 218. The protrusions are made of a material that would otherwise form the second side panel 222. In this manner, the protrusion may be considered to be made from one of the first and

second side panels

214, 222. The protrusions each form a protective top cover for the portion of article B received in the opening formed by folding the

side panels

214, 222, see fig. 13.

In the third illustrated embodiment, the bevel panels have been omitted, it being understood that the blank of figure 12 may employ bevel panels similar to those of the previously illustrated embodiments. It will also be understood that the

bevel panels

16, 20 of the embodiment of fig. 1 and 7 may be omitted; 116. 120, such an embodiment may employ the top engagement structure T of the embodiment of fig. 12.

The first and

second side panels

214, 222 include optional apertures A3, which apertures A3 may improve air flow or ventilation of the carton 290, for example, when in refrigeration.

The blank 210 includes four retaining structures arranged in pairs and generally indicated by

reference numerals

270a, 270 b. The retaining

structures

270a, 270b are fabricated from the top panel 218.

The first pair of retaining structures 270a includes a first tab 272/274 and a second tab 282/284.

The first tab 272/274 is hingedly connected to the top panel 218 by a fold line 273 and the second tab 282/284 is hingedly connected to the top panel 218 by a fold line 283.

The first tab 272/274 includes a first portion 272 hingedly connected to a second portion 274 by a central or longitudinal fold line 279.

The second tab 282/284 includes a first portion 282, the first portion 282 being hingedly connected to a second portion 284 by a central or longitudinal fold line 289.

The first tab 272/274 is separated from the second tab 282/284 by a cut or severable line 276.

The first tab 272/274 includes a first wing portion defined by the cut line 271 that defines a shoulder for engaging the article B. The cut line 271 is offset from the fold line 273. A cut line 271 is provided on a first side of the fold line 273. The first tab 272/274 includes a second wing portion defined by a cut line 277 that defines a shoulder for engaging the article B. Cut line 277 is offset from fold line 273. A cut line 277 is provided on a second side of the fold line 273, the second side being opposite to the first side.

The offset arrangement of the cut lines 271, 277 relative to the fold line 273 provides a recess between each wing portion and the top panel 218 when the first tab 272/274 is folded about the fold line 273 each recess can receive a flange L of an article B, securing the article B within the carton 290, as shown in fig. 14B and 14B, the side edges of the first tab 272/274 are shaped to complement the article B.

The second tab 282/284 includes a first wing portion defined by a cut line 281 that defines a shoulder for engaging the article B. Cut line 285 is offset from fold line 283. A cut line 281 is provided on a first side of the fold line 283. The second tab 282/284 includes a second wing portion defined by a cut line 287 that defines a shoulder for engaging the article B. The cut line 287 is offset from the fold line 283. A cut line 287 is provided on a second side of the fold line 283, the second side being opposite the first side.

The offset arrangement of the cut lines 281, 287 relative to the fold line 283 provides a recess between each wing portion and the top panel 218 when the second tab 282/284 is folded about the fold line 283 each recess can receive a flange L of an article B, thereby securing the article B within the carton 290.

The first pair of retaining structures 270a is disposed in vertical alignment with the gaps between the first set of four adjacent articles B. Four adjacent articles B may be formed from a pair of articles in the central column and a pair of articles in the endmost column adjacent the first end of the carton 290.

The second pair of retaining structures 270B is disposed in vertical alignment with the gaps between the second set of four adjacent articles B. A second set of four adjacent articles B may be formed by a pair of articles in the central column and a pair of articles in the endmost column adjacent the second end of the carton 290. A pair of items B in the central column is shared by the first and second groups such that it belongs to either the first or second group of items.

The present disclosure provides a carton 90, 190, 290 for packaging articles B, the carton including a top engaging means 50a, 50B, T, 150a, 150B, 150c, T, 270a, 270B for flanged articles such as flanged cups, cups being disconnectable or connectable to one another via their respective flanges, the carton 90, 190, 290 including a plurality of panels forming walls of a tubular structure including a top wall 18, 118, 218, a first side wall 14, 16, 114, 116, 214, a base wall 12/24, 112/124, 214/224 and a second side wall 22, 20, 122, 120, 222, the walls being optionally hingedly connected to one another in a linear series, the top engaging means may be in the form of a stabilizer 52a/54a, 52B/54B, 152a, 152B/154B, 152c/154c, 272/274, 282/284, the stabilizer being hingedly connected to the top panel 18, 118, 218B/54B, 152a, 152B/154B, 154B/154B, 152c/154, 152c, a stabilizer 52B, 154, 152B, 154B, 154, 152a, 154B, 154, a, B, a, B, a, B, a, B, a.

The top engaging means may be in the form of an article holder T comprising an article retaining aperture a2 made at least from one of the

side walls

14, 16, 22, 20, 114, 116, 122, 120, 214, 222 the article retaining aperture a2 is defined at least by a lower edge comprising a pair of engaging edges E1, E2 for engaging a flange L of a flanged article B, and a recess C1 extending between the engaging edges for receiving a portion of the flanged article B.

It will be appreciated that various changes can be made within the scope of the invention. For example, the size and shape of the panels and apertures may be adjusted to accommodate articles of different sizes or shapes.

It will be appreciated 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 orientations, but may merely serve to distinguish the panels from one another.

As used herein, the terms "hingedly connected" and "fold line" refer to lines in all of the following ways: the lines define hinge features of the blank that facilitate folding portions of the blank relative to one another, or otherwise indicate an optimal panel folding position for the blank. Any reference to "hinged connection" should not be construed as necessarily referring only to a single fold line; indeed, the hinged connection may be formed by two or more fold lines, wherein each of the two or more fold lines may be straight/linear or curved/curvilinear in shape. When the linear fold lines form a hinged connection, they may be disposed parallel to each other or at a slight angle relative to each other. The curvilinear fold lines may intersect one another when they form a hinged connection to define a shaped panel within the area surrounded by the curvilinear fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may include a pair of arcuate or arcuate fold lines that intersect at two points such that they define an oval-shaped panel therebetween. The hinged connection may be formed by one or more straight fold lines and one or more curved fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may comprise a combination of a straight fold line and an arcuate or bow fold line intersecting at two points such that they define a half-moon panel therebetween.

As used herein, the term "fold line" may refer to one of the following: score lines, embossed lines, debossed lines, a line of perforations, a line of short slits, a line of half cuts, a single half cut, interrupted cut lines, a line of aligned slits, a line of scores, and any combination of the foregoing options.

It should be understood that the hinged connections and fold lines may each comprise elements formed in the base panel of the blank, including perforations, a row of short slits, a row of half cuts, a single half cut, a cut line, an interrupted cut line, slits, scores, any combination thereof, and the like. The elements may be sized and arranged to provide the desired function. For example, a row of perforations may be sized or designed with a degree of weakness to define a fold line and/or a severance line. The row of perforations may be designed to facilitate folding and resist breaking, to facilitate folding and facilitate breaking with more force, or to facilitate breaking with less force.

As used herein, the phrase "matched with … …" refers to the alignment of two or more elements (such as an aperture formed in a first of two overlapping panels and a second aperture formed in a second of the two overlapping panels) in an upright carton. Those elements that match 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 "matches" a second aperture in a second panel 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 with the second aperture in a direction of a thickness of the first and second panels.

Claims

1. An article carrier for a plurality of flanged articles, the carrier comprising a top panel and a pair of side panels coupled to the top panel to define an interior space, for receiving at least a portion of each article, the carrier further comprising a first stabilizing member, the first stabilizing member being formed from the top panel, such that the first stabilizer at least partially defines a handle aperture in the top panel, the first stabilizer being hingedly connected to the top panel, so as to be foldable inwardly into the interior space to provide a finger pad, the first stabilizing member comprising a pair of hook panels, the hook panels are hingedly connected together along a central fold line, and each of the hook panels includes an engaging edge for engaging an underside of a flange of a respective one of a pair of adjacent flanged articles.

2. The article carrier of claim 1, wherein the top panel includes a second stabilizer, the second stabilizer being made from the top panel such that the second stabilizer partially defines the handle aperture in the top panel, the second stabilizer being hingedly connected to the top panel opposite the first stabilizer so as to be inwardly foldable into the interior space to provide a second finger pad, the second stabilizer including a second pair of hook panels, the hook panels being hingedly connected together along a central fold line, each of the second pair of hook panels including an engagement edge for engaging an underside of a flange of a respective one of a second pair of adjacently disposed flanged articles.

3. The article carrier of claim 1, wherein the first stabilizer comprises a triangular panel coupling the pair of hook panels to the top panel.

4. The article carrier of claim 1, wherein each of the hook panels includes a wing portion that at least partially defines one of the engagement edges.

5. The article carrier of claim 4, wherein each of the hook panels includes a recess along a side edge thereof, and the recess at least partially defines the wing portion.

6. The article carrier of claim 1, wherein each of the hook panels includes a recess along a side edge thereof, and the recess at least partially defines one of the engagement edges.

7. The article carrier of claim 5, wherein the recess is formed by an aperture made from the top panel.

8. The article carrier of claim 1, wherein the top panel includes a second finger pad formed therefrom such that the second finger pad partially defines the handle aperture in the top panel, the second finger pad being hingedly connected to the top panel opposite the first stabilizing member so as to be inwardly foldable into the interior space.

9. The article carrier of claim 2, wherein the top panel comprises a third stabilizer, the third stabilizer being made from the top panel such that the third stabilizer partially defines at least a portion of a second handle aperture in the top panel, the third stabilizer being hingedly connected to the top panel so as to be foldable inwardly into the interior space to provide a third finger pad, the second stabilizer comprising a third pair of hook panels hingedly connected together along a central fold line, each of the third pair of hook panels comprising an engagement edge for engaging an underside of a flange of a respective one of a third pair of adjacently disposed flanged articles.

10. The article carrier of claim 9, wherein the top panel includes a fourth finger pad made from the top panel such that the fourth finger pad partially defines the second handle aperture in the top panel, the fourth finger pad being hingedly connected to the top panel opposite the third stabilizer so as to be inwardly collapsible into the interior space.

11. An article carrier for at least one flanged article, the carrier comprising a top panel and a pair of side panels, the side panels coupled to the top panel to define an interior space for receiving at least a portion of the at least one flanged article, the carrier further comprising a first article holder comprising a first aperture made from at least one of the side panels, the first aperture defined by at least a lower edge, the lower edge comprising: a pair of engagement edges for engaging the flanges of the first flanged article; and a recess extending between the engagement edges for receiving a portion of the first flanged article.

12. The article carrier of claim 11, wherein the carrier includes a bevel panel interconnecting the one of the top panel and the side panel, and wherein the first aperture is made from the bevel panel.

13. The article carrier of claim 11, wherein the first article holder comprises a protrusion defined in part by the first aperture, and wherein the protrusion interrupts the hinged connection between the top panel and the one of the side panels, thereby being integral with the top panel, the protrusion being arranged to cover a portion of the first flanged article received in the first aperture.

14. The article carrier of claim 11, wherein the carrier further comprises a second article holder comprising a second aperture made from at least the other of the side panels, the second aperture being opposite the first aperture, the second aperture being defined by at least a lower edge, the lower edge comprising: a pair of engagement edges for engaging the flanges of the second flanged article; and a recess extending between the engagement edges for receiving a portion of the second flanged article.

15. The article carrier of claim 14, wherein the carrier further comprises a stabilizer made from the top panel such that the stabilizer defines a handle aperture in the top panel, the stabilizer being hingedly connected to the top panel so as to be foldable inwardly into the interior space to provide a finger pad, the stabilizer comprising a pair of hook panels hingedly connected together along a central fold line, the hook panels including engagement edges for engaging an underside of a flange of each of the first and second flanged articles, respectively.

16. The article carrier of claim 15, wherein the stabilizer urges each of the first and second flanged articles into engagement with a respective one of the first and second article holders.

17. The article carrier of claim 15, wherein the stabilizer maintains each of the first and second flanged articles in engagement with a respective one of the first and second article holders.

18. A blank for forming a carrier, the blank comprising a plurality of panels for forming walls of the carrier, the plurality of panels for defining an interior space for receiving at least a portion of each article, the plurality of panels comprising a top panel, a first side panel, and a second side panel, the first side panel and the second side panel coupled to the top panel, the blank comprising:

a first stabilizer formed from the top panel such that the first stabilizer at least partially defines a handle aperture in the top panel, the first stabilizer being hingedly connected to the top panel so as to be foldable inwardly into the interior space to provide a finger pad, the first stabilizer comprising a pair of hook panels hingedly connected together along a central fold line, the hook panels including engaging edges for engaging an underside of flanges, respectively, of a pair of adjacent flanged articles.

19. A blank for forming a carrier, the blank comprising a plurality of panels for forming walls of the carrier, the plurality of panels for defining an interior space for receiving at least a portion of each article, the plurality of panels comprising a top panel, a first side panel, and a second side panel, the first side panel and the second side panel coupled to the top panel, the blank comprising:

a first article holder comprising a first aperture made from at least one of the first side panel and the second side panel, the first aperture defined by at least a lower edge, the lower edge comprising: a pair of engagement edges for engaging the flanges of the first flanged article; and a recess extending between the engagement edges for receiving a portion of the first flanged article.