ARTICLE CARRIER AND BLANK THEREFOR

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to article carriers, a set of connected article carriers and to a set of connected blanks for forming the article carriers. 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.

It is desirable to efficiently apply the carriers to a group of articles in an automated manner using a packaging machine.

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 carrier of the top engaging type for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises a main panel having a plurality of article retention structures each comprising a receiving aperture defined through the main panel. The receiving apertures are arranged in rows and columns to form a rectangular array such that the receiving apertures include four corner apertures. The main panel defines a first notional footprint (or panel footprint). The arrangement of the receiving apertures defines a second notional footprint (or aperture footprint). The first notional footprint comprises a first footprint center. The second notional footprint comprises a second footprint center. The first footprint center is offset from the second footprint center.

Optionally, the first footprint center is laterally offset from the second footprint center.

Optionally, the first footprint center is offset from the second footprint center in a direction transverse to a longitudinal axis of the main panel.

Optionally, the first footprint center is longitudinally offset from the second footprint center.

Optionally, the first footprint center is offset from the second footprint center in a direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the main panel.

Optionally, the first footprint center is laterally and longitudinally offset from the second footprint center.

Optionally, the first footprint center is offset from the second footprint center in two orthogonal directions.

Optionally, the first notional footprint comprises a first rectangular or square area, the first footprint center being at the center of the first rectangular or square area, the second notional footprint comprises a second rectangle or square area, the second footprint center being at the center of the second rectangular or square area,

A second aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for packaging at least one article. The article carrier comprises a main panel having a plurality of article retention structures each comprising an aperture defined through the main panel. The apertures are arranged in rows and columns to form a rectangular array such that the apertures include four corner apertures. The main panel comprises four peripheral edges, including a pair of first and second opposing edges and a pair of third and fourth opposing edges. A first corner aperture is located at a corner of the main panel defined by the first and third edges. A second corner aperture is located at a corner of the main panel defined by the second and fourth edges. A first distance defined between the first edge and the center of the first corner aperture is substantially different from a second distance defined between the second edge and the center of the second corner aperture.

Optionally, the second distance is less than the first distance.

Optionally, the distance between the centers of each aperture and the centers of orthogonally adjacent apertures are equal, a dimension of the main panel along a longitudinal axis x is represented by the formula M×D1−a2, and wherein a dimension of the main panel along a transverse axis y is represented by the formula N×D1−a1, whrein the transverse axis is perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, “D1” is the distance between the centres of orthogonally adjacent apertures, ″″M is a first integer number equal to the number of rows of the array of apertures, ″″N is a second integer number equal to the number of the columns of the array of apertures, “a1” is a first numerical value greater than zero, and “a2” is a second numerical value no less than zero.

Optionally, “a2” is different to “a1”.

Optionally, “a2” is greater than “a1”.

Optionally, “a2” is twice “a1”.

Optionally, the main panel has a maximum width no greater than N×D1, the main panel has a maximum length less than M×D1, where “D1” is a maximum diameter of each article to be received in one of the plurality of article retention structures, is a first integer number equal to the number of rows of the array of apertures, “N” is a second integer number equal to the number of the columns of the array of apertures.

Optionally, the maximum width of the main panel is less than N×D1.

Optionally, the main panel further comprises one or more tabs formed about a periphery of each of the apertures in the main panel, the one or more tabs of each aperture being connected to the main panel, the tabs yield out of the plane of the main panel when an article is received in the aperture so as to bear against the article in an article-carrying configuration in which the main panel is applied to a group of articles.

Optionally, the article carrier further comprises a reinforcing panel hingedly connected to the main panel and secured to thereto in a face-contacting arrangement to form a two-ply structure, the reinforcing panel comprises a plurality of article receiving structures each having a receiving aperture defined through the reinforcing panel and in registry with a respective one of the apertures of the main panel.

Optionally, the main panel is an upper panel.

Optionally, the reinforcing panel is an upper panel.

Optionally, a third distance between the third edge and the center of the first aperture is substantially different from a fourth distance between the fourth edge and the center of the second aperture.

Optionally, a third distance between the third edge and the center of the first aperture is substantially equal to a fourth distance between the fourth edge and the center of the second aperture.

A third aspect of the invention provides a set of article carriers comprising at least two article carriers arranged next to each other. Each article carrier comprises a main panel having a plurality of article retention structures each comprising an aperture defined through the main panel. The main panels of the at least two article carriers are detachably connected together by a severance line to form a connected carrier group. The apertures of the connected carrier group are arranged in one or more rows. The connected carrier group comprises peripheral edges including a pair of first and second opposing edges disposed parallel to the severance line. The apertures in the connected carrier group include a first aperture disposed at an end of the one or more rows and adjacent to the first edge. The apertures in the connected carrier group further include a second aperture and a third aperture. The second aperture and the third aperture are disposed next to each other on the opposite sides of the severance line. A first dimension defined between the first edge and the center of the first aperture is less than a half of a second dimension defined between the centers of the second and third apertures.

Optionally, the one or more rows includes a first end row which includes the first, second and third apertures, the first aperture is at an end of the first end row, the first end row extends alongside a third edge of the connected carrier group, the third edge extends transversely with respect to the severance line, a third dimension defined between the third edge and the center of each of the apertures in the first end row is less than a half of the second dimension defined between the centers of the second and third apertures.

Optionally, the first end row includes a fourth aperture disposed at the other end of the first end row and adjacent to the second edge of the connected carrier group, and wherein a fourth dimension defined between the second edge and the center of the fourth aperture is less than a half of the second dimension defined between the centers of the second and third apertures.

Optionally, the one or more rows include a second end row extending alongside a fourth edge of the connected carrier group opposite to the third edge and extending transversely with respect to the severance line, and wherein a fifth dimension defined between the fourth edge and the center of each of the apertures in the second end row is less than a half of the second dimension defined between the centers of the second and third apertures.

Optionally, each article carrier further comprises a reinforcing panel hingedly connected to a respective one of the main panels and secured to the respective main panel in a face-contacting arrangement, each reinforcing panel comprises a plurality of article receiving structures each having a receiving aperture defined through the reinforcing panel and disposed in registry with a respective one of the apertures of the respective main panel, the reinforcing panels of the at least two article carriers are detachably connected together by a severance line to form the connected carrier group.

A fourth aspect of the invention provides a set of blanks each for forming an article carrier. The set of blanks comprises at least two blanks arranged next to each other. Each blank comprises a main panel having a plurality of article retention structures each comprising an aperture defined through the main panel. The main panels of the at least two blanks are detachably connected together by a severance line to form a connected blank group. The apertures of the connected blank group are arranged in one or more rows. The connected blank group comprises peripheral edges including a pair of first and second opposing edges disposed parallel to the severance line. The apertures in the connected blank group include a first aperture disposed at an end of the one or more rows and adjacent to the first edge. The apertures in the connected blank group further include a second aperture and a third aperture disposed next to each other on the opposite sides of the severance line. A first dimension defined between the first edge and the center of the first aperture is less than a half of a second dimension defined between the centers of the second and third apertures.

Optionally, each blank further comprises a reinforcing panel hingedly connected to a respective one of the main panels, each reinforcing panel comprising a plurality of article receiving structures, each having a receiving aperture defined through the reinforcing panel, wherein the reinforcing panels of the at least two blanks are detachably connected together by a severance line to form the connected blank group.

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:

FIG. 1 is a plan view from above of a plurality of connected blanks for forming a plurality of carriers according to a first embodiment;

FIG. 2 is an enlarged plan view from above of a portion of one of the blanks of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3A is a plan view from above of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3B is a plan view from below of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a plan view from above of a plurality of connected blanks for forming a plurality of carriers according to a second embodiment;

FIG. 5 is a plan view from above of a plurality of connected blanks for forming a plurality of carriers according to a third embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a plan view from above of a plurality of connected blanks for forming a plurality of carriers according to a fourth embodiment;

FIG. 7 is a plan view from above of a plurality of connected blanks for forming a plurality of carriers according to a fifth embodiment;

FIG. 8 is a plan view from above of a plurality of connected blanks for forming a plurality of carriers according to a sixth embodiment; and

FIG. 9 is a perspective view from below of an applicator for applying the plurality of connected blanks of FIG. 1 to a group of articles.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of the article engaging devices, packages, 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 article engaging devices, 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 FIG. 1, there is shown a plan view of a plurality of connected blanks 1, each blank 10A, 10B, 10C is capable of forming a carton or carrier 90, as shown in FIGS. 3A and 3B, for containing and carrying a group of primary products such as, but not limited to, bottles or cans, hereinafter referred to as articles. The articles may be generally cylindrical; the articles may comprise a circular cross-sectional shape, at least about a region of engagement with the carrier 90. Each blank 10A, 10B, 10C forms a secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package. Alternative connected blanks 101; 201; 301; 401; 501 are shown in FIGS. 4 to 8 for forming an alternative carton or carriers (not shown).

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 connected blanks 1; 101; 201; 301; 401; 501 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 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 connected blanks 1; 101; 201; 301; 401; 501 are configured to form cartons or carriers 90A, 90B, 90C for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 1, the arrangement is a 2×4 matrix or array—two rows of four articles are provided—and the articles are 12 US fl. oz. (approx. 355 ml) plastic bottles. In the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 6, the arrangement is a 2×3 matrix or array-two rows of three articles are provided-and the articles are 16.9 US fl. oz. (approx. 500 ml) plastic bottles and 24 US fl. oz. (approx. 710 ml) plastic bottles, respectively. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 5, the arrangement is a 2×2 matrix or array-two rows of two articles are provided-and the articles are 20 US fl. oz. (approx. 591 ml) plastic bottles. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 7, the arrangement is a 2×6 matrix or array-two rows of six articles are provided-and the articles are 12 US fl. oz. (approx. 355 ml) plastic bottles. In the embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8, the arrangement is a 3×4 matrix or array-three rows of four articles are provided-and the articles are 12 US fl. oz. (approx. 355 ml) plastic bottles. Alternatively, the connected blanks 1; 101; 201; 301; 401; 501 can be configured to form carriers for packaging other types, number, and size of articles and/or for packaging articles in a different arrangement or configuration.

Referring to FIG. 1 there is shown a plurality of connected blanks 1, each blank 10A, 10B, 10C comprises a first panel 12 for forming a lower panel of a carrier 90A, 90B, 90C (see FIG. 3B) and a second panel 14 for forming an upper panel of a carrier 90A, 90B, 90C (see FIG. 3A). The second panel 14 is hingedly connected to the first panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 13. The first and second panels 12, 14 form a two-ply engaging panel 12/14 in a setup carrier 90. The first panel 12 may be considered to form either one of a main panel and a reinforcing panel of a carrier 90A, 90B, 90C, the second panel 14 may be considered to form the other of the main panel and the reinforcing panel of said carrier 90A, 90B, 90C. In some embodiments, the second panels 14 may be omitted, in still other embodiments the first panels 12 may be omitted and the engaging panel may be single ply in construction.

Each blank 10A, 10B, 10C is severably connected to at least one of the other blanks 10A, 10B, 10C. The first panel 12 of a first blank 10A is severably connected to the first panel 12 of a second blank 10B by a severable connection in the form of a weakened line of severance, tear line or frangible line 15. The first panel 12 of the second blank 10B is severably connected to the first panel 12 of a third blank 10C by a severable connection in the form of a weakened line of severance, tear line or frangible line 15.

The second panel 14 of the first blank 10A is severably connected to the second panel 14 of the second blank 10B by a severable connection in the form of a weakened line of severance, tear line or frangible line 17. The second panel 14 of the second blank 10B is severably connected to the second panel 14 of the third blank 10C by a severable connection in the form of a weakened line of severance, tear line or frangible line 17.

The first panel 12 includes at least one article engaging structure RT1. In the illustrated embodiment, the first panel 12 comprises a plurality of article engaging structures RT1 specifically eight first or lower article engaging structures RT1 arranged in 2×4 matrix or array. The first panel 12 comprises two columns of first article engaging structures RT1, each column comprises four first article engaging structures RT1. The first panel 12 comprises four rows of first article engaging structures RT1, each row comprises two first article engaging structures RT1.

Each of the first article retention structures RT1 comprises an article receiving aperture defined in part by an aperture A1. The first article retention structures RT1 comprises a plurality of engaging teeth 40 disposed about the aperture A1 arranged in an annular series.

Each of the plurality of engaging teeth 40 are hinged to the first panel 12 by a hinged connection. The hinged connections may be defined by a plurality of first cutlines 43. The plurality of first cutlines 43 are spaced apart from each other to define the hinged connection between adjacent pairs of first cutlines 43. The plurality of first cutlines 43 may define or approximate a circle or at least a portion thereof. Each tooth 40 is defined in part by a pair of second cutlines 41 defining side edges thereof. Each second cutline 41 may be arranged to radially extend from the aperture A1. Each second cutline 41 may be configured to intersect or bisect one of the plurality of first cutlines 43.

The illustrated embodiment comprises eight engaging teeth 40 and the apertures A1 take the form of an octagon, in other embodiments more or less teeth may be provided and the apertures A1 may take other polygonal forms. In some embodiments, the apertures A1 may be circular in such embodiments a free end edge of each tooth 40 may be arcuate or curvilinear, the free end edge opposes the hinged connection to the first panel 12.

The second panel 14 includes at least one article engaging structure RT2. In the illustrated embodiment, the second panel 14 comprises a plurality of article engaging structures RT2 specifically eight second or upper article engaging structures RT2 arranged in 2×4 matrix or array. The second panel 14 comprises two columns of second article engaging structures RT2, each column comprises four second article engaging structures RT2. The second panel 14 comprises four rows of second article engaging structures RT2, each row comprises two second article engaging structures RT2.

Each of the second article engaging structures RT2 comprises an article receiving aperture defined in part by a second aperture A2. The second article engaging structures RT2 comprise a plurality of second engaging teeth 50 disposed about the second aperture A2 arranged in an annular series.

Each of the plurality of engaging teeth 50 are hinged to the second panel 14 by a hinged connection. The hinged connections may be defined by a plurality of third cutlines 53. The plurality of third cutlines 53 are spaced apart from each other to define the hinged connection between adjacent pairs of third cutlines 53. The plurality of third cutlines 53 may define or approximate a circle or at least a portion thereof. Each tooth 50 is defined in part by a pair of fourth cutlines 51 defining side edges thereof. Each fourth cutline 51 may be arranged to radially extend from the second aperture A2. Each fourth cutline 51 may be configured to intersect or bisect one of the plurality of third cutlines 53.

The illustrated embodiment comprises eight engaging teeth 50 and the second apertures A2 take the form of an octagon, in other embodiments more or less teeth may be provided and the second apertures A2 may take other polygonal forms. In some embodiments, the second apertures A2 may be circular in such embodiments a free end edge of each tooth 50 may be arcuate or curvilinear, the free end edge opposes the hinged connection to the second panel 14.

The second article engaging structures RT2 can be considered to be substantially similar to the first article engaging structures RT1 albeit rotated through an angle equivalent to half the angular width of one engaging tooth 40, 50. In the illustrated embodiment, the second article engaging structures RT2 are rotated through an angle of around 22.5° with respect to the first article engaging structures RT1.

Each first article engaging structure RT1 in the first panel 12 is configured to be disposed in vertical alignment with a respective one of the second article retention structures RT2 in the second panel 14.

The blank 10 may comprise a handle structure. The handle structure comprises at least one handle opening H1, H2, H3 defined in the second panel 14 and at least one handle aperture A3, A4 defined in the first panel 12 and configured to be in vertical registry with the at least one handle opening H1, H2, H3 defined in the second panel 14. The handle apertures A3, A4 are shaped complementary to the handle opening H1, H2, H3 with which they are arranged to be disposed in vertical registry in a set-up carrier 90A, 90B, 90C. The illustrated embodiment comprises three handle openings H1, H2, H3 in the second panel 14 and three handle apertures A3, A4 in the first panel 12. Each handle opening H1, H2, H3 is disposed centrally between a group of four second article retention structures RT2 in the second panel 14. Each handle aperture A3, A4 is disposed centrally between a group of four first article retention structures RT1 in the first panel 12.

The second panel 14 comprises a first handle opening H1 disposed between a first group of four second article retentions structures RT2, the first handle opening H1 comprises an aperture A5 and a pair of tabs 60. Each of the tabs 60 is struck from the second panel 14 and is hingedly connected thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 63. The pair of fold lines 60 are divergently arranged with respect to each other. The first handle opening H1 may be generally tear drop shaped.

The second panel 14 comprises a second handle opening H2 disposed between a second group of four second article retentions structures RT2, the second handle opening H2 is substantially similar in construction to the first handle opening H1, albeit inverted or a mirror image of the first handle opening H1, and will not be described in further detail.

The second panel 14 comprises a third handle opening H3 disposed between a third group of four second article retentions structures RT2, that is to say between a pair of second article retentions structures RT2 provided by the first group of four second article retentions structures RT2 and a pair of second article retentions structures RT2 provided by the second group of four second article retentions structures RT2. The third handle opening H3 is comprises, or is defined by, four tabs 62 struck from the second panel 14. Each of the four tabs 62 is generally triangular in shape and together define a kite or rhombus shaped opening. Each of the tabs 62 is hingedly connected to the second panel 14 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 63. Adjacent pairs of fold lines 63 are divergently arranged with respect to each other.

The center of each article retention structure RT1, RT2 is spaced apart from the center of its adjacent neighboring article retention structures RT1, RT2 by a first distance D1. First distance D1 may be equal to the maximum diameter or width of the articles B, see FIG. 2 in which the location of the articles B with respect to the second panel 14 is indicated by phantom lines (dot-dash lines).

The first and third blanks 10A and 10C are asymmetrical. The centers of the article retention structures RT1, RT2 disposed adjacent to free side edges SE1, SE2 are spaced apart from the free side edges SE1, SE2 by a second distance D2. The centers of the article retention structures RT1, RT2 disposed adjacent to the frangible connections 15, 17 to the second blank 10B are spaced apart from said frangible connections 15, 17 by a third distance D3. The second distance D2 is less than the third distance D3. The third distance D3 may be equal to half the first distance D1.

The second blank 10B is symmetrical. The centers of the article retention structures RT1, RT2 are spaced apart from the frangible connections 15, 17 by the third distance D3.

The centers of the article retention structures RT1, RT2 disposed adjacent to free end edges EE1, EE2 of the blanks 10A, 10B, 10C are spaced apart from the free end edges EE1, EE2 by the second distance D2. The centers of the article retention structures RT1, RT2 disposed adjacent to the fold lines 13 of the blanks 10A, 10B, 10C are spaced apart from the fold lines 13 by the second distance D2.

Referring to FIG. 2 there is shown a plan view of a first article carrier 90A separated from the second and third article carriers 90B, 90C shown in FIG. 3. A notional footprint of the second panel 14 and/or first panel 12 is shown by phantom line F1, which will hereinafter be referred to as the “first notional footprint”. A footprint of the second article retention structures RT2 is indicated by phantom line F2, which will hereinafter be referred to as the “second notional footprint”.

The first notional footprint F1 comprises a first rectangular or square area. The center of the first rectangular or square area is referred to as the “first footprint center” in this disclosure. The second notional footprint F2 comprises a second rectangle or square area. The center of the second rectangular or square area I referred to as the “second footprint center” in this disclosure.

The second notional footprint F2 is smaller than the first notional footprint F1. The second notional footprint F2 is offset with respect to the first notional footprint F1. The second footprint center C2 of the second notional footprint F2 is offset with respect to the first footprint center C1 of the first notional footprint F1. In the illustrated embodiment, the second footprint center C2 of the second notional footprint F2 lies on the vertex or intersection of cutlines 65, 67 separating the tabs 62 of the third handle opening H3. The first footprint center C1 of the first notional footprint F1 is indicated by crossed phantom lines. The first footprint center C1 of the first notional footprint F1 may be disposed within the perimeter of the third handle opening H3.

The second notional footprint F2 of the second article retention structures RT2 is offset in a lateral or transverse direction y with respect to the first notional footprint F1 of the second panel 14. In the embodiment of FIG. 2, there is no offset in the longitudinal direction x. In other embodiments, the first footprint center C1 of the first notional footprint F1 may be offset from the second footprint center C2 of the second notional footprint F2 in the longitudinal direction x in addition, or alternative, to being offset in the transverse direction y.

FIG. 2 also indicates the position of the first notional footprint F1 of the second panel 14 relative to the maximum diameter or width of the articles B. The articles B occupy a footprint which is bigger than the first notional footprint F1 of the second panel 14.

The first notional footprint F1 of the second panel 14 has a length dimension L2 and a width dimension W2. The articles B occupy a footprint having a length dimension L1 and a width dimension W1. The length dimension L1 is greater than the length dimension L2 by a distance a2. The width dimension W1 is greater than the width dimension W2 by distance a1. Distance a2 is greater than distance a1 and may be twice the size of distance a1.

It will be appreciated that the center of the footprint which the articles B occupy is offset with respect to the first notional footprint F1 of the second panel 14.

The carrier 90A comprises at least one corner article retention structure RT2 that is spaced the second distance D2 from an end edge EE2, 13 of the second panel 14 and is also spaced the second distance D2 from a first side edge SE1. The carrier 90A comprises at least one corner article retention structure RT2 that is spaced the second distance D2 from an end edge EE2, 13 of the second panel 14 and is also spaced the third distance D3 from a second side edge 17.

Turning to the construction of the article carriers 90A, 90B, 90C as illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3, the article carriers 90A, 90B, 90C can be formed by a series of sequential folding operations. The folding process is not limited to that described below and may be altered according to particular manufacturing requirements.

Glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to one or both of the first and second panels 12, 14 of each blank 10A, 10B, 10C in the plurality of connected blanks 1. The second panels 14 are folded with respect to the first panels 12, about fold lines 13, to be brought in to face contacting relationship with the first panels 12. In this way, each second panel 14 may be secured to the respective one of the first panels 14 to which it is hingedly connected.

FIG. 9 shows an applicator AP for applying the plurality of connected blanks 1 to groups of articles B. The applicator AP comprises a plate BW comprising plurality of orifices AP. The orifices AP may be open, that is to say define a hole through the plate BW, the orifices AP may be blind or partially blind CP, that is to say at least partially closed at one end, an outer end or upper end (in normal use).

The applicator AP comprises side and end walls SW1, SW2, EW1, EW2 extending from the plate BW, the side and end walls SW1, SW2, EW1, EW2 define an interior in which the plurality of connected blanks 1 is received. The interior surfaces of the side and end walls SW1, SW2, EW1, EW2 are shaped complementary to the outline shape of the plurality of connected blanks 1.

The applicator AP may comprise a blade or separator BL extending from the plate BW. The blade or separator BL may be mounted in a slot or groove GR defined in the plate BW and/or side wall SW1, SW2. The illustrated embodiment comprises projections PL in the form of pillars extending from the side walls SW1, SW2, each projection PL comprises a groove GR extending from a lower end or edge of the side wall SW1, SW2 to the plate BW for receiving the blade or separator BL.

Each of the end walls EW1, EW2 may comprises a recess or cutaway RC, the recess may extend from a lower edge of the end wall EW1, EW2 to the plate BW. The recess RC may facilitate access to the interior of the applicator AP for example, but not limited to, to allow engagement of the carriers 90A, 90C when received in the applicator AP.

The applicator AP comprises alignment posts PO1, PO2 extending from the plate BW, the alignment posts PO1, PO2 are configured to pass through the handle openings H1, H2, H3 and handle apertures A3, A4. The alignment posts PO1, PO2 align the carriers 90A, 90B, 90C with respect to the applicator AP and maintain said alignment whilst the applicator AP applies the carriers 90A, 90B, 90C to the groups or articles B ensuring alignment of the carriers 90A, 90B, 90C to the articles B.

The plurality of connected carriers 90A, 90B, 90C shown in FIGS. 3A, 3B are arranged such that the peripheral edge, the free edge of the plurality of connected carriers 90A, 90B, 90C is spaced apart from the interior surface of the side and end walls SW1, SW2, EW1, EW2 of the applicator AP to avoid or mitigate against interference therewith. The interior surface of the side and end walls SW1, SW2, EW1, EW2 is configured to form a close fit with the articles B to maintain their grouping and alignment whilst the applicator AP presses the plurality of connected carriers 90A, 90B, 90C thereon. The spacing may also reduce the risk of damage to, dislodgement or disengagement of, the carriers 90A, 90B, 90C when the applicator AP is withdrawn or removed following application of the carriers 90A, 90B, 90C to the articles B. In this way the plurality of connected carriers 90A, 90B, 90C may freely or readily be inserted and removed from the applicator AP.

Referring now to FIGS. 4 to 8, there are shown additional embodiments of the present disclosure. In the second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth illustrated embodiments like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix “100”, “200”; “300”; “400”, “500” to indicate that these features belong to the second, third, fourth, fifth, and sixth embodiment respectively. The additional embodiments share many common features with the first embodiment and therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 3B will be described in detail.

FIG. 4 shows a plurality of connected blanks 101 according to a second embodiment for forming a plurality of connected carriers, the plurality of connected blanks 101 comprises a group of four first panels 112 hingedly connected to a group of four second panels 114 by a fold line 113. Each first panel 112 is frangibly connected to adjacently disposed first panels 112 by a frangible connection 115, 117. Each second panel 114 is frangibly connected to adjacently disposed second panels 114 by a frangible connection 115, 117.

The first panels 112 each comprise six first article engaging structures RT1 in a 2×3 matrix or array, the first article engaging structures RT1 are substantially similar to the first article engaging structures RT1 of FIG. 1 and will not be described in further detail.

The second panels 114 each comprise six second article engaging structures RT2 in a 2×3 matrix or array, the second article engaging structures RT2 are substantially similar to the second article engaging structures RT2 of FIG. 1 and will not be described in further detail.

The second panels 114 each comprise first and second handle openings H1, H2, the first and second handle openings H1, H2 are substantially similar to the first and second handle openings H1, H2 of FIG. 1 and will not be described in further detail.

The first panels 112 each comprise a pair of handle apertures A3, the handle apertures A3 are substantially similar to the handle apertures A3 of FIG. 1 and will not be described in further detail.

The group of first panels 112 is folded about fold line 113 and adhesively secured to group of second panels 114 to form a plurality of connected carriers. Each of the carriers formed is asymmetric in shape. The second notional footprint F2 of the article retention structures RT1, RT2 is offset in a lateral or transverse direction y with respect to the first notional footprint F1 of the composite or two-ply panel formed from the first and second panels 112, 114. The second notional footprint F2 of the article retention structures RT1, RT2 is offset in a longitudinal direction x with respect to the first notional footprint F1 of the composite or two-ply panel formed from the first and second panels 112, 114.

In the embodiment of FIG. 4 all the article carriers formed from the plurality of connected blanks 101 are asymmetrical. The side edges of the carriers defined by the fold line 113 or by the free side edges SE1, SE2 are disposed a second distance D2 from the adjacent article retention structures RT1, RT2. The side edges of the carriers defined by or formed from the frangible lines 117 are disposed a third distance D3 from the article retention structures RT1, RT2 adjacent thereto. The second distance D2 is less than the third distance. The second notional footprint F2 of the article retention structures RT1, RT2 is offset in a lateral or transverse direction y with respect to the first notional footprint F1 of the first and second panels 112, 114.

The end edges of the carriers defined by the free end edges EE1, EE2 are disposed the second distance D2 from the adjacent article retention structures RT1, RT2. The end edges of the carriers defined by the frangible lines 115 are disposed the third distance D3 from the adjacent article retention structures RT1, RT2. The second distance D2 is less than the third distance. The second notional footprint F2 of the article retention structures RT1, RT2 is offset in a longitudinal direction x with respect to the first notional footprint F1 of the first and second panels 112, 114.

FIG. 5 shows a plurality of connected blanks 201 according to a third embodiment for forming a plurality of connected carriers, the plurality of connected blanks 201 comprises a group of six first panels 212 hingedly connected to a group of six second panels 214 by a fold line 213. The first and second panels 212, 214 form a 3×4 matrix or array having three columns of four panels 212, 214 or four rows of three panels 212, 214. Each first panel 212 is frangibly connected to adjacently disposed first panels 212 by a frangible connection 215, 217. Each second panel 214 is frangibly connected to adjacently disposed second panels 214 by a frangible connection 215, 217.

The second panels 214 each comprise a third handle openings H3, the third handle openings H3 are substantially similar to the third handle openings H3 of FIG. 1 and will not be described in further detail. The first panels 212 each comprise a handle aperture A4, the handle apertures A4 are substantially similar to the handle apertures A4 of FIG. 1 and will not be described in further detail.

The first panels 212 each comprise four first article engaging structures RT1 in a 2×2 matrix or array, the first article engaging structures RT1 are substantially similar to the first article engaging structures RT1 of FIG. 1 and will not be described in further detail.

The second panels 214 each comprise four second article engaging structures RT2 in a 2×2 matrix or array, the second article engaging structures RT2 are substantially similar to the second article engaging structures RT2 of FIG. 1 and will not be described in further detail.

In the embodiment of FIG. 5 all the article carriers formed from the plurality of connected blanks 201 are asymmetrical.

The article carriers formed from the middle or intermediate column of panels 212, 214 have a notional second footprint which is offset in a single direction with respect to the first notional footprint of the composite panel 212/214 in which they are formed. The second notional footprint of the article retention structures RT1, RT2 is offset in a lateral or transverse direction y with respect to the first notional footprint of the first and second panels 212, 214.

The side edges of the carriers (formed from the middle or intermediate column of panels 212, 214) defined by the fold line 213 or by the free side edges SE1, SE2 are disposed a second distance D2 from the adjacent article retention structures RT1, RT2. The side edges of said carriers defined by or formed from the frangible lines 217 are disposed a third distance D3 from the article retention structures RT1, RT2 adjacent thereto. The second distance D2 is less than the third distance D3.

The article carriers formed from the outer or endmost columns of panels 212, 214 have a second notional footprint which is offset in two orthogonal directions with respect to the first notional footprint of the composite panel 212/214 in which they are formed. The second notional footprint of the article retention structures RT1, RT2 is offset in a lateral or transverse direction y with respect to the first notional footprint of the first and second panels 212, 214, the second notional footprint of the article retention structures RT1, RT2 is also offset in a longitudinal direction x with respect to the first notional footprint of the first and second panels 212, 214.

The side edges of the carriers (formed from the outer or endmost columns of panels 212, 214) defined by the fold line 213 or by the free side edges SE1, SE2 are disposed the second distance D2 from the adjacent article retention structures RT1, RT2. The side edges of said carriers defined by or formed from the frangible lines 217 are disposed the third distance D3 from the article retention structures RT1, RT2 adjacent thereto.

The second distance D2 is less than the third distance D3.

FIG. 6 shows a plurality of connected blanks 301 according to a fourth embodiment for forming a plurality of connected carriers, the plurality of connected blanks 301 comprises a group of four first panels 312 hingedly connected to a group of four second panels 314 by a fold line 313. The plurality of connected blanks 301 is substantially similar to the plurality of connected blanks 101 shown in FIG. 4 albeit the first panels 312 comprises an alternative first article retention structure RT3 and the second panels 314 comprises an alternative second article retention structure RT4.

The alternative first article retention structure RT3 each comprise an aperture A6 about which a plurality of four engaging teeth 342 is disposed as an annular series. A “T” shaped cut 341, 343 separates each tooth 342 from its adjacent neighboring teeth 342. The “T” shaped cut 341, 343 comprises a radially extending portion 341 and a circumferential portion 343 at an outer terminal of the radially extending portion 341. Each tooth 342 comprises a fold line 345. The fold line 345 substantially bisects the tooth 342 and extends radially outward from the aperture A6 towards a fold line 347 hinging the tooth 342 to the first panel 312.

The alternative second article retention structures RT4 are similar to the second article retention structures RT2 of FIGS. 1 and 4 albeit the cutlines 53 at the end of the radial cut lines 51 have been omitted. The second alternative second article retention structures RT4 comprise a plurality of fourth cutlines 355 circumferentially arranged about the aperture A2. Each of the plurality of fourth cutlines 355 is disposed between outer terminal ends of the radial cut lines 351 and is spaced apart therefrom by connecting portions which form the hinged connection between the tabs 350 and the second panel 314. The plurality of fourth cutlines 355 may define or approximate a circle or at least a portion thereof.

FIG. 7 shows a plurality of connected blanks 401 according to a fifth embodiment for forming a plurality of connected carriers, the plurality of connected blanks 401 comprises a group of two first panels 412 hingedly connected to a group of two second panels 414 by a fold line 413. The first and second panels 412, 414 form a 1×4 matrix or array having one column of four panels 412, 414 or four rows of one panel 412, 414. The pair of first panels 412 are frangibly connected to each other by a frangible connection 417. The pair of second panels 414 are frangibly connected to each other by a frangible connection 417.

The second panels 414 each comprise a first, second, and third handle openings H1, H2, H3, the first, second, and third handle openings H1, H2, H3 are substantially similar to the first, second, and third handle openings H1, H2, H3 of FIG. 1 and will not be described in further detail. The first panels 412 each comprise three handle aperture A3, A4, the handle aperture A3, A4 are substantially similar to the handle aperture A3, A4 of FIG. 1 and will not be described in further detail.

The first panels 412 each comprise twelve first article engaging structures RT1 in a 2×6 matrix or array, the first article engaging structures RT1 are substantially similar to the first article engaging structures RT1 of FIG. 1 and will not be described in further detail.

The second panels 414 each comprise twelve second article engaging structures RT2 in a 2×6 matrix or array, the second article engaging structures RT2 are substantially similar to the second article engaging structures RT2 of FIG. 1 and will not be described in further detail.

In the embodiment of FIG. 7 all the article carriers formed from the plurality of connected blanks 401 are asymmetrical.

The article carriers formed from the plurality of connected blanks 401 have a second national footprint which is offset in a single direction with respect to the first notional footprint of the composite panel 412/414 in which they are formed. The second notional footprint of the article retention structures RT1, RT2 is offset in a lateral or transverse direction y with respect to the first notional footprint of the first and second panels 412, 414.

The side edges of the defined by the fold line 213 or by the free side edges SE1, SE2 are disposed a second distance D2 from the adjacent article retention structures RT1, RT2. The side edges of said carriers defined by or formed from the frangible lines 217 are disposed a third distance D3 from the article retention structures RT1, RT2 adjacent thereto. The second distance D2 is less than the third distance D3.

The end edges of the carriers defined by the free end edges EE1, EE2 are disposed the second distance D2 from the adjacent article retention structures RT1, RT2.

FIG. 8 shows a plurality of connected blanks 501 according to a sixth embodiment for forming a plurality of connected carriers, the plurality of connected blanks 501 comprises a group of two first panels 512 hingedly connected to a group of two second panels 514 by a fold line 513.

The first panels 512 each comprise twelve first article engaging structures RT1 in a 3×4 matrix or array, the first article engaging structures RT1 are substantially similar to the first article engaging structures RT1 of FIG. 1 and will not be described in further detail.

The second panels 514 each comprise twelve second article engaging structures RT2 in a 3×4 matrix or array, the second article engaging structures RT2 are substantially similar to the second article engaging structures RT2 of FIG. 1 and will not be described in further detail.

The first panels 512 comprise a first handle structure H4 and the second panels 514 comprise a second handle structure H5 arranged to be in vertical registry with the first handle structure H4 in a set-up carrier.

The first handle structure H4 comprises pair of finger or handle openings A7 provided in the first panel 512; the finger or handle openings A7 may be defined by an aperture struck from the first panels 512. A first one of the pair of finger openings A7 is disposed between a first group of four first article retention structures RT1. A second one of the pair of finger openings A7 is disposed between a second group of four first article retention structures RT1. The first and second groups of four first article retention structures RT1 may share a common pair of first article retention structures RT1. In this way the pair of finger openings A7 are disposed on opposing sides of a pair of first article retention structures RT1. A first cut line C1 extends generally longitudinally from each of the pair of finger openings A7 towards the free end edge EE1 of the first panels 512. A second cut line C2 extends generally longitudinally from each of the pair of finger openings A7 towards the hinged end edge 513 of the first panels 512. The first cut line C1 and second cut line C2 may be divergently arranged with respect to each other and may terminate in a “C” or “J” shaped cut.

The first cut lines C1, second cut lines C2, and pair of finger openings A7, in each first panel 512, define a region or strip of the first panel 512 therebetween, the strap is displaceable out of the plane of the first panel 512 to form first ply of a handle strap.

The second handle structure H5 comprises pair of second finger or handle openings T1 provided in the second panel 514; the second finger or handle openings T1 may be defined by tabs T1 struck from the second panels 514 and hingedly connected thereto by hinged connections in the form of fold lines FL. Each tab T1 is configured to be disposed in vertical registry with one of the apertures A7 in the second panels 514. A first one of the pair of second finger openings T1 is disposed between a first group of four second article retention structures RT2. A second one of the pair of second finger openings T1 is disposed between a second group of four second article retention structures RT2. The first and second groups of four second article retention structures RT2 may share a common pair of second article retention structures RT2. In this way the pair of second finger openings T1 are disposed on opposing sides of a pair of second article retention structures RT2. A third cut line C3 extends generally longitudinally from each of the pair of second finger openings T1 towards the hinged end edge 513 of the second panels 514. A fourth cut line C4 extends generally longitudinally from each of the pair of finger openings A7 towards the free end edge EE2 of the second panels 514. The third cut line C3 and fourth cut line C4 may be divergently arranged with respect to each other and may terminate in a “C” or “J” shaped cut.

Each third cut line C3 is coupled to a respective fourth cut line C4 by a tab cutline or severable line C5, the tab cutline or severable line C5 defines in part the tab T1. The tab cutline or severable line C5 may be generally “U” shaped.

The third cut lines C3, fourth cut lines C4, and pair of finger openings T1, in each second panel 514, define a region or strip of the second panel 514 therebetween, the strap is displaceable out of the plane of the second panel 514 to form second play of the handle strap.

In the embodiment of FIG. 8 all the article carriers formed from the plurality of connected blanks 501 are asymmetrical.

The article carriers formed from the plurality of connected blanks 501 have a second notional footprint which is offset in a single direction with respect to the first notional footprint of the composite panel 512/514 in which they are formed. The second notional footprint of the article retention structures RT1, RT2 is offset in a lateral or transverse direction y with respect to the first notional footprint of the first and second panels 512, 514.

The side edges of the article carriers defined by the free side edges SE1, SE2 are disposed a second distance D2 from the adjacent article retention structures RT1, RT2. The side edges of said carriers defined by or formed from the frangible lines 517 are disposed a third distance D3 from the article retention structures RT1, RT2 adjacent thereto. The second distance D2 is less than the third distance D3.

The end edges of the carriers defined by the fold lines 513 or by the free end edges EE1, EE2 are disposed the second distance D2 from the adjacent article retention structures RT1, RT2.

The present disclosure provides a carrier 90A, 90B, 90C of the top engaging type having a retention or engaging structure RT1, RT2, RT3, RT4, for engaging articles B.

The carrier 90A, 90B, 90C may comprise a two-ply engaging panel 12/14; 112/114; 212/214; 312/314; 412/414; 512/514. Each of the plies of the two-ply engaging panel 12/14; 112/114; 212/214; 312/314; 412/414; 512/514 comprises retention or engaging structure RT1, RT2, RT3, RT4. A retention or engaging structure RT1, RT2, RT3, RT4 in a first ply is aligned with a retention or engaging structure RT1, RT2, RT3, RT4 in a second ply.

The present disclosure also provides an article carrier 90A, 90B, 90C comprising a main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514. The main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 comprises a plurality of article retention structures RT1, RT2, RT3, RT4 each having a receiving aperture defined at least in part by an aperture A1, A2, A6 defined through the main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514. The receiving apertures are arranged in rows and columns to form a rectangular (rectangular includes square) matrix or array such that the receiving apertures include four corner apertures A1, A2, A6. The main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 defines a first national footprint F1. The arrangement of the receiving apertures defines a second notional footprint F2. The first notional footprint F1 comprises a first footprint center C1 and the second notional footprint F2 comprises a second footprint center C2, the first footprint center C1 is offset from the second footprint center C2.

The first footprint center C1 may be laterally offset from the second footprint center C2. The first footprint center C1 may be offset from the second footprint center C2 in a direction transverse to a longitudinal axis of the main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514. The first footprint center C1 may be longitudinally offset from the second footprint center C2, that is to say, offset in the direction parallel to the longitudinal axis of the main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514. The first footprint center C1 may be laterally and longitudinally offset from the second footprint center C2. The first footprint center C1 may be offset from the second footprint center C2 in two orthogonal directions.

The main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 comprises four (e.g., squared, rounded or beveled) corner portions. The first notional footprint F1 comprises a first rectangular or square area. The center of the first rectangular or square area is referred to as the “first footprint center” in this disclosure. The second notional footprint F2 comprises a second rectangular or square area. The center of the second rectangular or square area is referred to as the “second footprint center” in this disclosure.

The present disclosure also provides a carrier 90A, 90B, 90C comprising a main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 which comprises a plurality of article retention structures RT1, RT2, RT3, RT4 each having an aperture A1, A2, A6 defined through the main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514. The apertures A1, A2, A6 are arranged in rows and columns to form an array such that the apertures include four corner apertures. The main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 comprises four peripheral edges 17, SE1, 13, EE2 (see FIG. 2), including a pair of first and second opposing edges 17, SE1 and a pair of third and fourth opposing edges 13, EE2. A first corner aperture A2′ is located at a portion of the main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 defined by the intersection of the first and third edges 17, 13. A second corner aperture A2″ is located at a portion of the main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 defined by the intersection of the second and fourth edges SE1, EE2. A first distance D3 between the first edge 17 and the center of the first aperture A2′ is substantially different from a second distance D2 between the second edge SE2 and the center of the second aperture A2″. The second distance D2 may be less than the first distance.

The respective distances D1 between the centers of each aperture A1, A2, A6 and the centers of orthogonally adjacent apertures A1, A2, A6 are equal. The dimension of the main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 along a longitudinal axis or direction x is represented by the formula M×D1−a2. The dimension of the main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 along a transverse axis or direction y (the transverse axis being perpendicular to the longitudinal axis) is represented by the formula N×D1−a1. D1 is the distance between orthogonally adjacent apertures A1, A2, A6. “M ”is a first integer number of the rows of the apertures A1, A2, A6. “N” is a second integer number of the columns of the apertures A1, A2, A6. “a1” is a first numerical value greater than zero and “a2” is a second numerical value no less than zero and may be different from a1. a2 may be greater than a1 and may be twice a1.

The main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 may have a maximum width W2 equal to or less than N×D1, and the main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 may have a maximum length L2 less than M×D1, where “D1” is a maximum diameter of each article the article retention structures are configured to receive; “M” is a first integer number of the rows of the apertures A1, A2, A6; “N” is a second integer number of the columns of the apertures A1, A2, A6.

The maximum width W2 of the main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 may be less than N×D1.

The main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 may further comprise one or more tabs 40, 50; 342, 350; 540, 550 formed about a periphery of each of the apertures A1, A2, A6 in the main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514. The one or more tabs 40, 50; 342, 350; 540, 550 of each aperture A1, A2, A6 being connected to the main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514. The tabs 40, 50; 342, 350; 540, 550 yield out of the plane of the main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 upon receiving articles B in the apertures A1, A2, A6 so as to bear against articles B in an article-carrying configuration in which the main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 is applied to a grouping of articles B.

The article carrier 90A, 90B, 90C may further comprise a reinforcing panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 hingedly connected to the main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 and secured thereto in a face-contacting arrangement so as to form a two-ply structure of the two panels. The reinforcing panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 may comprise a plurality of article receiving structures RT1, RT2, RT3, RT4 each having a receiving aperture A1, A2, A6 defined through the reinforcing panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 and disposed in registry with a respective one of the apertures A1, A2, A6 of the main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514. In some embodiments, the main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 may be an upper panel, while in other embodiments the reinforcing panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 may be an upper panel.

In some embodiments, see FIGS. 4, 5, and 6 for example, a third distance D2 between the third edge 13 and the center of the first aperture A2′ is substantially different from a fourth distance D2″ (see FIG. 2) between the fourth edge EE2 and the center of the second aperture A2″. In the example shown in FIG. 2, the third distance D2 is substantially equal to the fourth distance D2″.

The present disclosure also provides a set of article carriers 90A, 90B, 90C comprising at least two article carriers 90A, 90B, 90C arranged next to each other and may be detachably connected together by a severance line 15, 17; 115, 117; 215, 217; 315, 317; 417, 515, 517 to form a connected carrier group. Each article carrier 90A, 90B, 90C comprises a main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 which comprises a plurality of article retention structures RT1, RT2, RT3, RT4 each having an aperture A1, A2, A6 defined through that main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514. The main panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 of the at least two article carriers 90A, 90B, 90C may be detachably connected together by a severance line 15, 17; 115, 117; 215, 217; 315, 317; 417, 515, 517 to form a connected carrier group 90A/90B/90C. The apertures A1, A2, A6 of the connected carrier group 90A/90B/90C are arranged in one or more rows. The connected carrier group 90A/90B/90C comprises peripheral edges SE1, SE2, 13, EE1/EE2 (see FIGS. 3A and 3B) including a pair of first and second opposing edges SE1, SE2, at least a portion of each of which is disposed parallel to the severance line 15, 17. The apertures A1, A2, A6 in the connected carrier group 90A/90B/90C include a first aperture A1; A2 disposed at an end of the one or more rows and adjacent to the first edge SE1. The apertures A1, A2, A6 in the connected carrier group further include a second aperture A1′; A2′ and a third aperture A1″; A2″ disposed next to each other on opposite sides of the severance line 15, 17 such that the severance line extends between the second and third apertures. A first distance D2 between the first edge SE1 and the center of the first aperture A1, A2 may be less than one half of a second distance (e. g., 2×D3) between the centers of the second and third apertures A1′, A1″; A2′, A2″ (i.e., D2<D3).

The one or more rows may include a first end row which includes the first, second and third apertures A1, A1′, A1″; A2, A2′, A2″. The first aperture A1, A2 is at an end of the first end row, the first end row extends alongside a third edge EE1/EE2 of the connected carrier group 90A/90B/90C. The third edge EE1/EE2 extends transversely with respect to the severance line 15, 17. A third distance D2′ (see FIG. 3B) between the third edge EE1/EE2 and the center of each of the apertures A1, A1′, A1″; A2, A2′, A2″ in the first end row may be less than one half of the second distance (e. g., 2×D3) between the centres of the second and third apertures A1′, A1″; A2′, A2″ (i.e., D′<D3).

The first end row may include a fourth aperture A1′″, A2′″ disposed at the other end of the first end row and adjacent to the second edge SE2 of the connected carrier group 90A/90B/90C, and a fourth distance D2′″ between the second edge SE2 and the center of the fourth aperture A1′″, A2′″ may be less than one half of the second distance (e. g., 2×D3) between the centres of the second and third apertures A1′, A1″; A2′, A2″ (i.e., D2′″<D3).

The one or more rows include a second end row extending alongside a fourth edge 13 of the connected carrier group 90A/90B/90C opposite to the third edge EE1/EE2 and extending transversely with respect to the severance line 15, 17, and a fifth distance D2⁴between the fourth edge 13 and the center of each of the apertures in the second end row may be less than one half of the second dimension (e. g., 2×D3) between the centres of the second and third apertures A1′, A1″; A2′, A2″ (i.e., D2⁴<D3).

Each article carrier 90A, 90B, 90C may further comprise a reinforcing panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 hingedly connected to a respective one of the main panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 and secured to the respective main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 in a face-contacting arrangement. Each reinforcing panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 comprises a plurality of article receiving structures RT1, RT2, RT3, RT4 each having a receiving aperture A1, A2, A6 defined through that reinforcing panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 and disposed in registry with a respective one of the apertures A1, A2, A6 of the respective main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514, the reinforcing panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 of the at least two article carriers 90A, 90B, 90C may be detachably connected together by a severance line 15, 17; 115, 117; 215, 217; 315, 317; 417, 515, 517 to form the connected carrier group 90A/90B/90C.

The present disclosure provides a set of blanks 1; 101; 201; 301; 401; 501 each of the blanks for forming an article carrier 90A, 90B, 90C. The set of blanks 1; 101; 201; 301; 401; 501 comprises at least two blanks 10A, 10B, 10C; 110A, 110B, 110C, 110D; 510A, 510B arranged next to each other and which may be detachably connected together by a severance line 15, 17; 115, 117; 215, 217; 315, 317; 417, 515, 517 to form a connected blank group 1; 101; 201; 301; 401; 501. Each blank 10A, 10B, 10C; 110A, 110B, 110C, 110D; 510A, 510B comprises a main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 which comprises a plurality of article retention structures RT1, RT2, RT3, RT4 each having an aperture A1, A2, A6 defined through that main panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514. The main panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 of the at least two blanks 10A, 10B, 10C; 110A, 110B, 110C, 110D; 510A, 510B may be detachably connected together by a severance line 15, 17; 115, 117; 215, 217; 315, 317; 417, 515, 517 to form a connected blank group 1; 101; 201; 301; 401; 501. The apertures A1, A2, A6 of the connected blank group 1; 101; 201; 301; 401; 501 are arranged in one or more rows. The connected blank group 1; 101; 201; 301; 401; 501 comprises peripheral edges SE1, SE2, EE1, EE2 including a pair of first and second opposing edges SE1, SE2 at least a portion of each of which may be disposed parallel to the severance line 17; 117; 217; 317; 417, 515, 517. The apertures A1, A2, A6 in the connected blank group 1; 101; 201; 301; 401; 501 include a first aperture A1, A2 disposed at an end of the one or more rows and adjacent to the first edge SE1. The apertures A1, A2, A6 in the connected blank group 1; 101; 201; 301; 401; 501 further include a second aperture A1′; A2′ and a third aperture A1″; A2″ disposed next to each other on opposite sides of the severance line 15, 17. A first distance D2 between the first edge SE1 and the center of the first aperture A1, A2 may be less than one half of a second dimension (e. g., 2>D3) between the centres of the second and third apertures A1′, A1″; A2′, A2″ (i.e., D2<D3).

The one or more rows may include a first end row which includes the first, second and third apertures A1, A1′, A1″; A2, A2′, A2″. The first aperture A1, A2 is at an end of the first end row, the first end row extends alongside a third edge EE1/EE2 of the connected blank group 1; 101; 201; 301; 401; 501. The third edge EE1/EE2 extends transversely with respect to the severance line 15, 17. A third distance D2′ (see FIG. 3B) between the third edge EE1/EE2 and the center of each of the apertures A1, A1′, A1″; A2, A2′, A2″ in the first end row may be less than one half of the second distance (e. g., 2×D3) between the centres of the second and third apertures A1′, A1″; A2′, A2″ (i.e., D2′<D3).

The first end row may include a fourth aperture A1′″, A2′″ disposed at the other end of the first end row and adjacent to the second edge SE2 of the connected blank group 1; 101; 201; 301; 401; 501, and a fourth distance D2′″ between the second edge SE2 and the center of the fourth aperture A1′″, A2′″ may be less than one half of the second distance (e. g., 2×D3) between the centres of the second and third apertures A1′, A1″; A2′, A2″ (i.e., D2′″<D3).

The one or more rows include a second end row extending alongside a fourth edge 13 of the connected blank group 1; 101; 201; 301; 401; 501 opposite to the third edge EE1/EE2 and extending transversely with respect to the severance line 15, 17, and a fifth distance D24 between the fourth edge 13 and the center of each of the apertures in the second end row may be less than one half of the second dimension (e. g., 2×D3) between the centres of the second and third apertures A1′, A1″; A2′, A2″ (i.e., D2⁴<D3).

Each blank 10A, 10B, 10C; 110A, 110B, 110C, 110D; 510A, 510B may further comprise a reinforcing panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 hingedly connected to a respective one of the main panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514. Each reinforcing panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 may comprise a plurality of article receiving structures RT1, RT2, RT3, RT4 each having a receiving aperture A1, A2, A6 defined through that reinforcing panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514. The reinforcing panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314; 412, 414; 512, 514 of the at least two blanks 10A, 10B, 10C; 110A, 110B, 110C, 110D; 510A, 510B may be detachably connected together by a severance line 15, 17; 115, 117; 215, 217; 315, 317; 417, 515, 517 to form the connected blank group 1; 101; 201; 301; 401; 501.

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. The shoulder panels may be omitted. The present invention is not limited to cartons of the top-engaging type, the invention may be employed with other carton styles such as, but not limited to, open top crates, lidded or closed top crates. The applicator AP of FIG. 9 can be adapted or modified to accommodate the connected carriers formed from the connected blanks 101; 201; 301; 401; 501 of FIGS. 4 to 8.

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/linear or curved/curvilinear 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.

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.

ARTICLE CARRIER AND BLANK THEREFOR

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