ARTICLE PACKAGING METHODS, AND BLANKS USED THEREFORE

FIELD

The present disclosure relates to packaging and, more particularly, to article packaging, packaging methods, and blanks for forming article packaging.

BACKGROUND

In the field of packaging, cartons are often used for packaging or otherwise containing one or more articles, such as a group of articles. Such cartons may also be used as carriers that are useful for enabling consumers to transport, store, and access the articles for use or consumption. Additionally, in some circumstances, the same carton may be used for shipping and/or display of the articles by a retailer. However, traditional cartons, or carriers, may permit the articles packaged therein to move relative to the carton. Such movement may result in the articles having an undesirable location or orientation relative to the carton.

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 a weight of grouped articles. It is desirable that the contents of the carton are securely held by the carton and that the cartons or carriers are easy for a consumer to grasp and carry.

Accordingly, those skilled in the art continue with research and development efforts in the field of packaging.

SUMMARY

Disclosed are article packaging, a packaging method, and a blank for forming article packaging. The following is a non-exhaustive list of examples, which may or may not be claimed, of the subject matter according to the present disclosure.

In an example, the disclosed article packaging includes a retention panel and a retention structure formed, at least in part, by the retention panel and configured to engage the article. The retention structure includes a retention surface configured to contact the article. The article packaging also includes a friction coating disposed on at least a portion of the retention surface of the retention structure. The friction coating impedes movement of the article relative to the retention panel.

In an example, the disclosed article packaging includes a retention panel. The retention panel includes a retention aperture configured to receive a portion of the article and a plurality of retention tabs arranged around the retention aperture and configured to engage the article. Each one of the plurality of retention tabs includes a retention surface configured to contact the article. The article packaging also includes a friction coating disposed on at least a portion of the retention surface of each one of the plurality of retention tabs. The friction coating impedes rotational movement of the article relative to the retention panel.

In an example, the disclosed article packaging includes a retention panel. The retention panel includes a panel surface. A portion of the panel surface is configured to contact an article. The article packaging also includes a friction coating disposed on at least the portion of the panel surface configured to contact the article to form a retention surface. The friction coating forming the retention surface impedes movement of the article relative to the retention panel.

In an example, the disclosed blank includes a retention panel and a retention structure formed, at least in part, by the retention panel. The retention structure includes a retention surface. The blank also includes a friction coating disposed on at least a portion of the retention surface of the retention structure.

In an example, the disclosed blank includes a retention panel. The retention panel includes a retention aperture and a plurality of retention tabs arranged around the retention aperture. Each one of the plurality of retention tabs includes a retention surface. The blank also includes a friction coating disposed on at least a portion of the retention surface of each one of the plurality of retention tabs.

In an example, the disclosed blank includes a retention panel. The retention panel includes a panel surface and a friction coating disposed on at least a portion of the panel surface to form a retention surface.

In an example, the disclosed packaging method includes steps of: (1) forming a retention structure, at least in part, by a retention panel of a blank, wherein the retention structure includes a retention surface; and (2) applying a friction coating on at least a portion of the retention surface.

In an example, the disclosed packaging method includes steps of: (1) engaging an article using a retention structure formed, at least in part, by a retention panel of an article carrier, wherein the retention structure includes a retention surface that contacts the article; and (2) impeding movement of the article relative to the retention panel using a friction coating disposed on at least a portion of the retention surface.

Other examples of the disclosed article packaging, packaging method, and blank used therefore will become apparent from the following detailed description, the accompanying drawings, and the appended claims.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a schematic, perspective view of an example of article packaging;

FIG. 2 is a schematic, elevation view, in section, of an example of a portion of the article packaging shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a schematic, plan view of an example of a blank used for forming the article packaging shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a schematic, plan view of another example of a blank used for forming the article packaging shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a schematic, plan view of another example of a blank used for forming the article packaging shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 6 is a schematic, perspective view of another example of the article packaging;

FIG. 7 is a schematic, plan view of an example of a blank used for forming the article packaging shown in FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a schematic, perspective view of another example of the article packaging;

FIG. 9 is a schematic, plan view of an example of a blank used for forming the article packaging shown in FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a schematic, perspective view of another example of the article packaging;

FIG. 11 is a schematic, plan view of an example of a blank used for forming the article packaging shown in FIG. 10;

FIG. 12 is a schematic, perspective view of another example of the article packaging;

FIG. 13 is a schematic, elevation view, in section, of an example of a portion of the article packaging shown in FIG. 12;

FIG. 14 is a schematic, perspective view of another example of the article packaging; and

FIG. 15 is a schematic, elevation view, in section, of an example of a portion of the article packaging shown in FIG. 14.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Referring to FIGS. 1-15, by way of examples, the present disclosure is directed to article packaging 100. The article packaging 100 contains at least one article 106. Generally, the article packaging 100 includes a friction coating 104 that contacts the article 106 contained by the article packaging 100. The friction coating 104 impedes (e.g., prevents, obstructs, or hinders) movement of the article 106 relative to the article packaging 100, thereby holding the article 106 in a set (e.g., desired) location and/or orientation relative to the article packaging 100.

Referring to FIGS. 3-5, 7, 9 and 11, by way of examples, the present disclosure is also directed to blanks 102 used for forming the article packaging 100. The blank 102 is formed into an assembled article packaging 100. In one or more examples, the blank 102 is formed from a sheet of suitable substrate. Generally, the blank 102 provides the packaging structure of the article packaging 100 before being applied to, formed on, installed on, or otherwise coupled to the articles 106 to which it contains.

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 packaging structure for the article packaging 100, as described in more detail herein below.

In the illustrative examples, the article packaging 100 is configured, or is suitable, to contain and/or carry a plurality, such as a group, of articles 106. However, in other examples, the article packaging 100 is configured to contain a single article 106.

In the illustrated embodiments, the article packaging 100 is configured for packaging an exemplary arrangement of articles 106. In the example illustrated in FIG. 1, the arrangement of articles 106 is four rows of two articles 106 (e.g., a 4×2 matrix or array), and the articles 106 are beverage cans. In other examples, the article packaging 100 is configured for packaging other types, numbers and/or sizes of articles 106 and/or for packaging the articles 106 in a different arrangement or configuration (e.g., 2×2, 2×3, etc.).

For the purpose of the present disclosure, the article 106 refers to a product or a primary product container for a product, which is packaged within or otherwise contained by the article packaging 100. As an example of the article 106, the product is a beverage, and the primary product container is a can. However, it is contemplated that the examples of the article packaging 100 described herein may be applied to various types of articles 106 (e.g., various types of products and/or product containers), which may be, but are not necessarily, cylindrical in shape, tapered in shape, or having any one of various other geometries. Exemplary articles 106 (e.g., product containers) include, but are not limited to, bottles (e.g., metallic, glass, or plastics bottles), cans (e.g., aluminum cans), tins, pouches, packets, other similar product containers, and the like.

Accordingly, in one or more examples, the article packaging 100 forms a secondary, or exterior, package for packaging the articles 106. The article packaging 100 may take the form of any one of various packaging configurations, such as, but not limited to a carton, a carrier, a display, a bin, a basket, or other packaging structure.

In one or more examples, the article packaging 100 is formed from a sheet material, such as a sheet of suitable substrate (e.g., paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, and the like). In one or more examples, the sheet material (e.g., paperboard) is made of, or is 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.

Generally, the sheet material (e.g., forming the article packaging 100 or the blank 102 used therefore) has a first surface 114 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) and a second surface 116 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3), which is opposite the first surface 114. In the illustrative examples, the first surface 114 of the sheet material faces outwardly or forms an exterior surface of the article packaging 100. Similarly, in the illustrated examples, the second surface 116 faces inwardly or forms an interior surface of the article packaging 100.

In one or more examples, one surface (e.g., the first surface 114) of the sheet material (e.g., forming the article packaging 100 or the blank 102 used therefore) has different characteristics to the other surface (e.g., the second surface 116). For example, the first surface 114 of the sheet material (e.g., that faces outwardly from a finished article packaging 100) may be particularly smooth and/or may have a coating, such as a clay coating or other surface treatment, to provide good printability. The second surface 116 of the sheet material (e.g., that faces inwardly) may 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. Additional functional coatings and/or barrier coatings that provide other properties, such as liquid-resistance, moisture-resistance, and the like, my also be applied to one or both surfaces of the sheet material (e.g., forming the article packaging 100 or the blank 102 used therefore).

Referring to FIGS. 1-3, in one or more examples, the article packaging 100 includes a retention panel 108. The article packaging 100 also includes a retention structure 110. The retention structure 110 is formed, at least in part, by the retention panel 108. The retention structure 110 is configured to engage the article 106. The retention structure 110 includes a retention surface 112 (e.g., as illustrated in FIGS. 2 and 3). The retention surface 112 is configured to contact the article 106. The friction coating 104 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3) is disposed on at least a portion of the retention surface 112 of the retention structure 110. The friction coating 104 impedes movement of the article 106 relative to the retention panel 108.

For the purpose of the present disclosure, the terms “disposed on,” “applied to,” and similar terms used in reference to the friction coating 104 refer to a situation where the friction coating 104 is located directly on a surface to which it is applied or to a situation where the friction coating 104 is located on an underlying or previously applied material coating formed on the surface to which it is applied (e.g., the friction coating 104 is located on the surface to which it is applied but a coating layer is located between the friction coating 104 and the surface).

In one or more examples, the friction coating 104 impedes rotational movement of the article 106 relative to the retention panel 108. In one or more examples, the friction coating 104 impedes linear movement of the article 106 relative to the retention panel 108.

FIG. 1 illustrates an example of the article packaging 100 having a group of the articles 106 contained therein. FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a portion of the article packaging 100 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 1), in section view, engaged with one of the articles 106. FIG. 3 illustrates an example of a blank 102 for forming the article packaging 100, such as shown in FIG. 1. In the illustrated examples, the article packaging 100, and the blank 102 used therefore, take the form of a top gripping clip article carrier. An example of such a carrier is a CanCallar® Eco article carrier made by WestRock Company.

Referring to FIG. 1-3, in these examples, the retention panel 108 forms an entirety of the packaging structure of the article packaging 100. The retention panel 108 includes the first surface 114 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) and the second surface 116 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3). The retention structure 110 is formed by the retention panel 108. The retention structure 110 secures, grips, or otherwise holds the article 106 within the article packaging 100.

In the examples illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 3, the article packaging 100 includes a plurality of retention structures 110. The retention structures 110 are arranged to accommodate the arrangement, or grouping, of the articles 106 to be contained by the article packaging 100. In the examples illustrated in FIGS. 1 and 3, the arrangement of retention structures 110 is four rows of two retention structures 110 (e.g., a 4×2 matrix or array), and the articles 106 are beverage cans. In other examples, the arrangement of the retention structures 110 is configured for packaging other types, numbers and/or sizes of articles 106 and/or for packaging the articles 106 in a different arrangement or configuration (e.g., 2×2, 2×3, etc.).

In one or more examples, the retention structure 110 is configured to engage, or grip, an upper portion (e.g., top end) of the article 106 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2). In one or more examples, the retention structure 110 engages, or grips, a feature of the article 106, such as from underneath the feature. In the illustrated example, the article 106 is a beverage can 118 (e.g., the primary product container). In this example, the retention structure 110 engages, or grips, a top end of the can 118 directly underneath a rim 120 of the can 118.

The retention surface 112 of the retention structure 110 is configured to directly contact a portion of a surface of the article 106. In the illustrated examples, the retention surface 112 directly contacts an upper portion of a side surface of the can 118, such as underneath the rim 120 of the can 118. With the retention structure 110 engaged with the article 106, the friction coating 104, disposed on at least a portion of the retention surface 112, impedes movement of the article 106 (e.g., the can 118) relative to the retention panel 108. As an example, the friction coating 104 impedes rotational movement of the article 106 about an axis 122 extending longitudinally though the article 106 (e.g., along a length or height of the can 118). As another example, the friction coating 104 impedes linear movement of the article 106 along the axis 122.

In one or more examples, the article 106 (e.g., the product or the primary product container) may include indicia 124 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2) related to the product. Examples of the indicia 124 include, but are not limited to, graphic displays (e.g., product branding), various other product information (e.g., nutrition fact label, product warnings, etc.), and the like.

Typically, during application of the article packaging 100, the article 106, such as a group of the articles 106, is rotationally oriented at a desired orientation, such that the indicia 124 is presented outwardly for view by a consumer when displayed by a retailer. It can be appreciated that there is a desire for, and a benefit to, maintaining the preferred orientation of the article 106 with the indicia 124 being outwardly presented. However, during application of the article packaging 100 to the group of the articles 106, during further processing of the article packaging 100 containing the articles 106, and/or throughout the supply chain (e.g., transport, delivery, and/or display) of the article packaging 100 containing the articles 106, external forces (e.g., vibrational forces, rotational forces, and the like) acting on one or more of the articles 106 may result in the article 106 (e.g., one or more of the group of the articles 106) being rotated (e.g., spun) to an undesirable orientation such that the indicia 124 is not properly presented. The friction coating 104, disposed on at least a portion of the retention structure 110, beneficially maintains the desired rotational orientation of the article 106 (e.g., each one of the group of the articles 106) such that the indicia 124 is maintained at the desired outwardly-presented direction.

Referring still to FIGS. 1-3, in one or more examples, the retention structure 110 includes a retention aperture 126 and a plurality of (e.g., at least two) retention tabs 128. The retention aperture 126 is formed through the retention panel 108 (e.g., of the article packaging 100 or the blank 102 used therefore). The retention aperture 126 is configured to receive a portion of the article 106. The retention tabs 128 are arranged around the retention aperture 126. The retention tabs 128 are configured to engage the article 106 to hold the article 106 within the retention aperture 126. Each one of the retention tabs 128 includes a portion of the retention surface 112. The friction coating 104 is disposed on at least a portion of the retention surface 112 of the retention tabs 128 (e.g., each one of the retention tabs 128).

In the illustrative examples in which the retention structure 110 includes the retention aperture 126 formed in the retention panel 108 and the retention tabs 128 arranged around the retention aperture 126, the retention tabs 128 are displaced out of the plane of the retention panel 108 when the article 106 is received in the retention aperture 126. The retention tabs 128 engage the article 106 generally about a feature thereof, such as a flange, a lip, a rim, or the like of the article 106.

In other examples (not explicitly illustrated), the retention structure 110 may take a different form, such as, but not limited to, a pair of spaced apart opposing cuts that define a displaceable region forming a cover over the article 106 and providing a pair of opposed engaging edges for engaging opposing sides of the article 106 below an engaging feature of the article 106, such as a flange, a lip, a rim, a chime, or other projection.

Referring to FIG. 3, in one or more examples, the friction coating 104 is applied (e.g., spot applied) only to at least a portion of the retention surface 112 of the retention structure 110 (e.g., of the retention tabs 128). In an example, the friction coating 104 is spot applied to a portion of the retention surface 112 of each one of the retention tabs 128, as shown by example on a first retention structure 110-1. In another example, the friction coating 104 is spot applied to at least a portion of the retention surface 112 of selected ones of the retention tabs 128 (e.g., at least two of but not all of the retention tabs 128), as shown by example on a second retention structure 110-2. In yet another example, the friction coating 104 is spot applied to an entirety of the retention surface 112 of (e.g., one or more of) the retention tabs 128, as shown by example on a third retention structure 110-3.

Referring to FIGS. 1 and 3, in one or more examples, the retention tabs 128 are arranged in an annular series around the retention aperture 126. In one or more examples, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, the retention tabs 128 extend substantially continuously around the retention aperture 126. For example, each one of the retention tabs 128 is located directly next to an adjacent one of the retention tabs 128.

In one or more examples (not explicitly illustrated), the retention tabs 128 are spaced apart around the retention aperture 126. For example, each one of the retention tabs 128 is spaced away from an adjacent one of the retention tabs 128.

In one or more examples, the retention tabs 128 are interrupted by a recess or cutaway (e.g., as shown in FIG. 9). The recess is provided at a location about the circumference of the retention aperture 126, for example, disposed in closest proximity to an adjacent retention aperture 126. In one or more examples, the recess extends from the retention aperture 126 towards an adjacent one of the retention apertures 126.

Referring to FIGS. 2 and 3, in one or more examples, the retention panel 108 includes a panel surface 130. The retention surface 112 extends from the panel surface 130. In these examples, the retention tabs 128 are formed from, or extend continuously from, the retention panel 108.

In one or more examples, the panel surface 130 of the retention panel 108 and, thus, the retention surface 112 of the retention structure 110 (e.g., of the retention tabs 128) are, or are formed by, at least a portion of the second surface 116 of the article packaging 100 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 3). However, in other configurations of the article packaging 100, the panel surface 130 of the retention panel 108 and, thus, the retention surface 112 of the retention structure 110 (e.g., of the retention tabs 128) may be, or may be formed by, at least a portion of the first surface 114 of the article packaging 100.

It can be appreciated that the position of the panel surface 130 of the retention panel 108, the position of the retention surface 112 of the retention structure 110 (e.g., of the retention tabs 128), and/or the position of the friction coating 104 relative to the first surface 114 and the second surface 116 of the article packaging 100 may depend on the configuration of the retention structure 110, the manner in which the retention structure 110 engages the article 106, the manner in which the article 106 is contained by the article packaging 100, and/or the manner in which the article packaging 100 is installed or applied to the article 106.

Referring now to FIGS. 4 and 5, which illustrate other examples of the article packaging 100 and/or the blank 102 for forming the article packaging 100. In one or more examples, the friction coating 104 is also disposed on at least a portion of the panel surface 130 of the retention panel 108.

Referring to FIG. 4, in one or more examples, the friction coating 104 is applied to a relatively large portion of the panel surface 130, such as within boundary lines 132. In these examples, applying the friction coating 104 to the portion of the panel surface 130, such within the boundary lines 132, consequently applies the friction coating 104 to the retention surface 112 of the retention structure 110 (e.g., of each one of the retention tabs 128). In the illustrated example, the boundary lines 132 are substantially straight lines, are substantially parallel to each other, and/or are substantially parallel to edges of the retention panel 108. However, in other examples, the boundary lines 132 may have other configurations, such as being curved lines, being oblique to each other, and/or being oblique to the edges of the retention panel 108.

Referring to FIG. 5, in one or more examples, the friction coating 104 is applied to a relatively small portion of the panel surface 130, such as within boundary lines 134. In these examples, applying the friction coating 104 to the portion of the panel surface 130, such within the boundary lines 134, consequently applies the friction coating 104 to the retention surface 112 of the retention structure 110 (e.g., of each one of the retention tabs 128). In these examples, the portion of the panel surface 130, on which the friction coating 104 is applied, forms a margin around the retention structure 110. In the illustrated example, the boundary lines 134 are substantially circular and circumscribe the retention structures 110 (e.g., the retention apertures 126 and the retention tabs 128 arranged around each of the retention apertures 126). However, in other examples, the boundary lines 134 may have other configurations, such as other two-dimensional geometries, and/or may form larger or smaller margins around the retention structures 110.

In one or more examples (not explicitly illustrated), the friction coating 104 is disposed on an entirety of the panel surface 130 of the retention panel 108. In these examples, applying the friction coating 104 to the entirety of the panel surface 130 consequently applies the friction coating 104 to the retention surface 112 of the retention structure 110 (e.g., of each one of the retention tabs 128).

Referring to FIGS. 1-5, in one or more examples, each one of the retention tabs 128 is integral with the retention panel 108. In one or more examples, each one of the retention tabs 128 is struck from the retention panel 108. In one or more examples, each one of the retention tabs 128 includes a hinged connection 136 to the retention panel 108. In other words, each one of the retention tabs 128 extends from and is hingedly connected to the retention panel 108. In one or more examples, each one of the retention tabs 128 includes a retention edge 138. or engaging edge, that is spaced away from the hinged connection 136. The retention edge 138 is configured to engage the article 106. For example, the retention edge 138 of each one of the retention tabs 128 engages the rim 120 of the can 118 from underneath, as illustrated in FIG. 2.

In one or more examples, the retention edge 138 is defined by a linear portion of a cut line defining the retention aperture 126. Each one of the retention tabs 128 may be defined, at least in part, by a pair of cuts 140 (e.g., cut lines), as shown by example in a fifth retention structure 110-5 in FIG. 3. In one or more examples, the cuts 140 extend generally radially outward from a center of the retention aperture 126. In the illustrated examples, the retention tabs 128 are arranged in an annular series about the retention aperture 126 to form part of the retention aperture 126. In one or more examples, each one of the retention tabs 128 also includes a pair of side edges extending from the retention edge 138.

In one or more examples, the retention edge 138 may define a part of a polygon. In the illustrated examples, the retention structure 110 includes sixteen retention tabs 128, which together define a hexadecagon. In one or more examples, the side edges are defined by the cuts 140 extending radially outward from respective vertices of the hexadecagon, for example, as illustrated in the fifth retention structure 110-5 in FIG. 3. For example, the cuts 140, or side edges of the retention tab 128, extend radially outward from a respective vertex between a pair of adjacent linear portions of the cut 140 defining the portion of a hexadecagon. In one or more examples, the cuts 140 are divergently arranged with respect to each other and define an angle therebetween, the angle may be about 22.5°.

In one or more examples, each one of the retention tabs 128 disposed about the retention aperture 126 has the same angular width as the other retention tabs 128 and/or the retention edges 138 of the retention tabs 128 are of equal length. Alternatively, in one or more examples, at least one of the retention tabs 128 disposed about the retention aperture 126 has a different angular width as at least one other retention tab 128 and/or the retention edge 138 of at least one of the retention tabs 128 has a different length than the retention edge 138 of at least one other retention tab 128.

In one or more examples, each one of the cuts 140 may be linear in shape. In one or more examples, each one of the cuts 140 may be arcuate or curved. In these examples, the cuts 140 (e.g., cut lines) may include a radius of curvature that is equal to half the diameter of the retention aperture 126. In other examples, the cuts 140 (e.g., cut lines) may include a radius of curvature that is greater than half the diameter of retention aperture 126.

In one or more examples, each one of the retention tabs 128 is hingedly connected to the retention panel 108 by the hinged connection 136 (e.g., as shown by example in the fourth retention structure 110-4 and the fifth retention structure 110-5 in FIG. 3). In one or more examples, the hinged connection 136 is defined by a plurality of cut lines 164 (e.g., as shown by example in the fifth retention structure 110-5 in FIG. 3). In one or more examples, the cut lines 164 is arranged as an annular series of cuts about the retention aperture 126. In one or more examples, the cut lines 164 define or approximate a portion of a circle.

In one or more examples, each of the cuts 140 (e.g., radial cut lines) is spaced apart from a corresponding one of the cut lines 164 (e.g., circumferential cut lines). Each of the cuts 140 is arranged with respect to one of the cut lines 164 so as to bisect the cut line 164. In this way, a connecting nick or bridge portion is provided between a pair of adjacently disposed retention tabs 128 sharing a common cut 140. In one or more examples, the cuts 140 and the cut lines 164 define disconnected T-shaped cuts.

Referring to FIG. 3, in one or more examples, the retention surface 112 of each one of the retention tabs 128 is formed between the hinged connection 136 and the retention edge 138. The friction coating 104 is disposed on at least a portion of the retention surface 112 located between the hinged connection 136 and the retention edge 138, as shown by example on a fourth retention structure 110-4.

In one or more examples, at least one of the retention tabs 128 has a different folding resistance compared to at least another one of the retention tabs 128. Providing retention tabs 128 about inner regions of the retention aperture 126 (e.g., portions of the retention aperture 126 disposed medially of the retention panel) with a hinged connection having an increased folding resistance facilitates folding of the retention tabs 128 about outer regions of the retention aperture 126 (e.g., portions of the retention aperture 126 proximate the side or end edges of the retention panel 108). It is believed that this arrangement of retention tabs 128 may concentrate or focus stress or forces on those retention tabs 128 proximate the side or end edges of the retention panel 108 (also referred to herein as outer retention tabs) when the article 106 is inserted into the retention aperture 126.

In one or more examples, the folding resistance is increased or decreased by the absence or presence of the at least one cut line 164 and/or selection of connected T-cuts (e.g., formed by cut 140 and cut line 164) or disconnected T-cuts. Alternatively, in one or more examples, the folding resistance may be controlled by employing alternative devices, such as, but not limited to, a score line or adjusting the length of the at least one cut line 164; shortening the cut lines 164 increases the length of the connecting bridges or nicks between adjacent ones of the retention tabs 128 and hence the fold resistance.

In one or more examples, the connected T-cuts (e.g., formed by cuts 140 and cut lines 164) reduce stress in a corner region of the retention panel 108 and/or reduce the likelihood of tear propagation in the retention panel 108. In one or more examples, the connecting nicks between adjacent ones of the retention tabs 128 may increase the security of the article 106 within the retention aperture 126 and/or may increase biasing of the retention tabs 128 against the article 106 so as to improve article retention.

Generally, the friction coating 104 may be applied to the retention surface 112 of the retention structure 110 (e.g., of the retention tabs 128) and/or at least a portion of the panel surface 130 of the retention panel 108 by any one of various application techniques. In an example, the friction coating 104 is applied to (e.g., printed on) the retention surface 112 of the retention structure 110 (e.g., of the retention tabs 128) and/or at least a portion of the panel surface 130 of the retention panel 108 using a commercial coating printer or other print tool. In another example, the friction coating 104 is applied to (e.g., wiped on) the retention surface 112 of the retention structure 110 (e.g., of the retention tabs 128) and/or at least a portion of the panel surface 130 of the retention panel 108 using a coating wiper or similar applicator tool. In yet another example, the friction coating 104 is applied to (e.g., sprayed on) the retention surface 112 of the retention structure 110 (e.g., of the retention tabs 128) and/or at least a portion of the panel surface 130 of the retention panel 108 using a coating sprayer or similar applicator tool.

The friction coating 104 is, or includes, any material coating that is suitable for application to the sheet material (e.g., of the article packaging 100 or the blank 102) or over an underlying material coating of the sheet material (e.g., a varnish coating) and that has characteristics and/or properties that provide a sufficient level of friction to impede movement of the article 106 relative to the retention panel 108. Generally, the level of friction is high enough to impede movement of the article 106 contained by the article packaging 100 but low enough to properly print and die cut the sheet material and run the coated sheet material (e.g., the blank 102) through automation without issues.

An exemplary range of the level of friction provided by the friction coating 104 is between approximately 0.4 and approximately 1.16 static coefficient of friction, such as approximately 0.81 static coefficient of friction, and/or between approximately 0.1 and approximately 0.4 kinetic (dynamic) coefficient of friction, such as 0.2 kinetic coefficient of friction, with a slip angle up to approximately 39 degrees. The ranges provided for the static coefficient of friction, kinetic (dynamic) coefficient of friction, and slip angle are provided merely as examples. Other values of static coefficient of friction, kinetic (dynamic) coefficient of friction, and slip angle may be implemented without departing from the intended structure and composition of the friction coating 104 and without departing from the principles of the present disclosure and purpose of the article packaging 100.

In one or more examples, the friction coating 104 is a food-safe coating. For example, the friction coating 104 is made of non-hazardous materials that are approved for indirect contact with food. In one or more examples, the friction coating 104 is, or includes, an intermediate plastic material. In one or more examples, the friction coating 104 is an aqueous polymer dispersion. In one or more examples, the friction coating 104 includes polyolefins. In one or more examples, the friction coating 104 also includes other additives. An example of the friction coating 104 is ACTGREEN® Barrier Coating AQ214X13CPCCI made by ACTEGA North America, Inc.

In one or more examples, the friction coating 104 is applied (e.g., printed, wiped, sprayed, and the like) along (e.g., parallel to) a grain direction of the sheet material.

Referring to FIGS. 1-11, in one or more examples, the article packaging 100 includes a handle structure 158 (e.g., as shown in FIGS. 1, 6, 8 and 10). In one or more examples, the handle structure 158 is formed, at least in part, by the retention panel 108. In one or more examples, the handle structure 158 includes at least one handle opening 160 (e.g., finger opening). In the illustrated examples, the article packaging 100, and the blank 102 used therefor, includes three handle openings 160. In one or more examples, the handle openings 160 are disposed on a longitudinal axis bisecting the retention panel 108. In one or more examples, the handle openings 160 lie, at least in part, between a first column of the retention aperture 126 and a second column of the retention apertures 126. In one or more examples, each one of the handle openings 160 is defined in, or struck from, a region of the retention panel 108 disposed centrally between the four of the retention apertures 126, arranged as two adjacent pairs of retention apertures 126.

FIG. 6 illustrates another example of the article packaging 100 having a group of articles 106 contained therein. FIG. 7 illustrates another example of the blank 102 for forming the article packaging 100, such as shown in FIG. 6. In the illustrated examples, the article packaging 100, and the blank 102 used therefore, take the form of a top gripping clip article carrier having a cover structure. An example of such a carrier is a CanCollar® Shield article carrier made by WestRock Company.

Referring to FIGS. 6 and 7, in these examples, the retention panel 108 forms a portion of the packaging structure of the article packaging 100. As an example, the retention panel 108 is one of a plurality of panels that form the article packaging 100 and/or the blank 102 used therefore.

In one or more examples, the retention panel 108 is, or forms, a main panel or central panel of the blank 102 or a lower, or bottom, wall of the packaging structure of the article packaging 100. The retention panel 108 includes the retention structures 110 for engaging and containing the articles 106.

In the examples illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the retention structures 110 formed by the retention panel 108 may be substantially the same as the retention structures 110 formed by the retention panel 108 described above and illustrated by example in FIGS. 1-5.

In one or more examples, each one of the retention structures 110 includes the retention surface 112. In another example, each one of the retention structures 110 includes the retention aperture 126 and the retention tabs 128 arranged around the retention aperture 126. Each one of the retention tabs 128 includes a portion of the retention surface 112. The friction coating 104 is disposed on at least a portion of the retention surface 112, as described above and illustrated by example in FIGS. 2-5. Additionally, the friction coating 104 may also be disposed on at least a portion of the panel surface 130 of the retention panel 108, as described above and illustrated by example in FIGS. 4 and 5.

In one or more examples, a first side panel 142 is hingedly connected to a first side of the retention panel 108 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 144. A first cover panel 146, which may also be referred to as a first top panel, is hingedly connected to the first side panel 142 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 148.

In one or more examples, a second side panel 150 is hingedly connected to a second side of the retention panel 108 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 152. A second cover panel 154, which may also be referred to as a second top panel, is hingedly connected to the second side panel 150 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 156.

In one or more examples, the first cover panel 146 and the second cover panel 154 are arranged to be disposed in at least partially overlapping relationship with each other (e.g., as shown in FIG. 6). The overlapping portions of the first cover panel 146 and the second cover panel 154 are provided with a locking structure 166 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 6) for locking the first cover panel 146 and the second cover panel 154. In one or more examples, the locking structure 166 cooperates with the handle openings 160 (e.g., shown in FIG. 7) in the retention panel 108 to secure the first cover panel 146 and the second cover panel 154 to the retention panel 108.

Referring to FIG. 7, in one or more examples, the locking structure 166 includes at least one receiver element, for example, in the form of a lock opening 168 in the first cover panel 146. In one or more examples, the first cover panel 146 includes a plurality of lock openings 168, more specifically three lock openings 168. However, in other examples, one, two or more than three lock openings 168 may be provided. Each one of the lock openings 168 is arranged to be in vertical registry or alignment with a corresponding one of the handle openings 160 provided in the retention panel 108.

In one or more examples, the locking structure also includes at least one locking element for being received in the receiver element. In one or more examples, the locking element includes at least one locking tab 170 struck from the second cover panel 154. In one or more examples, the second cover panel 154 includes a plurality of locking tabs 170, more specifically, three locking tabs 170. However, in other examples, one, two or more than three locking tabs 170 may be provided. Each one of the locking tabs 170 is arranged to be engageable with a corresponding one of the lock openings 168 and a corresponding one of the handle openings 160.

In one or more examples, each locking tab 170 is hinged to the second cover panel 157 by a hinged connection 172. In one or more examples, each locking tab 170 may include at least one fold line. In the illustrated example, the locking tab 170 includes a pair of fold lines. The pair of fold lines may be divergently arranged with respect to each other. Each of the pair of fold lines may be non-linear in shape for example but not limited to arcuate or curvilinear in shape. The nonlinear fold lines may encourage the locking tab 170 to return to a planar arrangement so as to increase security of the locking tab 170 within the lock opening 168 and the handle opening 160.

In one or more examples, the locking tab 170 may be substantially ‘arrow head’ shaped so as to define a pair of opposing shoulders or detents for securely engaging the handle opening 160 and/or the lock opening 168.

In one or more examples, the article packaging 100 includes the handle structure 158 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 6). In one or more examples, the locking structure 166 (e.g., lock openings 168 and locking tabs 170) cooperates with the handle openings 160 (e.g., shown in FIG. 7) in the retention panel 108 to form the handle structure 158.

Referring to FIG. 7, in one or more examples, one of the retention tabs 128 (e.g., retention tab 128-1 shown on a first one of the retention structures 110-1) is disposed proximate the hinged connection between the retention panel 108 and a respective one of the first side panel 142 and the second side panel 150. The retention tab 128-1 may be integral with the retention panel 108, that is to say it is free from any cuts 140 or hinged connection 136 to the retention panel 108. In one or more examples, the retention tab 128-is in sufficiently close proximity to one of the fold line 144 or the fold line 152, respectively hinging the first side panel 142 and the second side panel 150 to the retention panel 108, that the one of the fold line 144 or fold line 152 effectively serves as a hinged connection to the retention tab 128-1. The retention tab 128-1 may be defined by cuts 162, which include a ‘J’ or ‘C’ shaped cut proximate the one of the fold line 144 or the fold line 152. A portion of the ‘J’ or ‘C’ shaped cut may lie upon a notional circle defined by the plurality of cut lines 51, 53.

FIG. 8 illustrates another example of the article packaging 100 having a group of articles 106 contained therein. FIG. 9 illustrate another example of the blank 102 for forming the article packaging 100, such as shown in FIG. 8. In the illustrated examples, the article packaging 100, and the blank 102 used therefore, take the form of a top gripping clip article carrier having side and/or end structures. An example of such a carrier is a PremCollar® Pure article carrier made by WestRock Company.

Referring to FIGS. 8 and 9, in these examples, the retention panel 108 forms a portion of the packaging structure of the article packaging 100. As an example, the retention panel 108 is one of a plurality of panels that form the article packaging 100 and/or the blank 102 used therefore.

In one or more examples, the retention panel 108 is, or forms, a main panel or central panel of the blank 102 or an upper, or top, wall of the packaging structure of the article packaging 100. The retention panel 108 includes the retention structures 110 for engaging and containing the articles 106.

In the examples illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, the retention structures 110 formed by the retention panel 108 may be substantially the same as the retention structures 110 formed by the retention panel 108 described above and illustrated by example in FIGS. 1-5.

Referring to FIG. 9, in one or more examples, the first side panel 142 is hingedly connected to the first side of the retention panel 108 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 144. The second side panel 150 is hingedly connected to the second side of the retention panel 108 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 152.

In one or more examples, the article packaging 100, and the blank 102, includes a first end structure formed by a plurality a panels and fold lines. For example, a first upper end panel 214A is hingedly connected to a first end of the retention panel 108 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 213A. A first lower end panel 214B is hingedly connected to the first upper end panel 214A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 213B. A first corner panel 260A is hingedly connected to a first end of the first side panel 218 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 261A. A second corner panel 260B is hingedly connected to a first end of the second side panel 220 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 261B. A first securing panel 264A is hingedly connected to the first corner panel 260A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 263A. A second securing panel 264B is hingedly connected to the second corner panel 260B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 263B. A first web panel 268A is hingedly connected at one end to the first securing panel 264A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 269A and is hingedly connected at a second end to the first upper end panel 214A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 271A. A second web panel 268B is hingedly connected at one end to the second securing panel 264B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 269B and is hingedly connected at a second end to the first upper end panel 214A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 271B.

In one or more examples, the article packaging 100, and the blank 102, includes a second end structure, opposite the first end structure, formed by a plurality a panels and fold lines. For example, a second upper end panel 216A is hingedly connected to a second end of the retention panel 108 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 215A. A second lower end panel 216B is hingedly connected to the second upper end panel 216A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 215B. A third corner panel 262A is hingedly connected to a second end of the first side panel 218 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 265A. A fourth corner panel 262B is hingedly connected to a second end of the second side panel 220 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 265B. A third securing panel 266A is hingedly connected to the third corner panel 262A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 267A. A fourth securing panel 266B is hingedly connected to the fourth corner panel 262B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 267B.

It will be appreciated that the first side panel 142, the first corner panel 260A, the first securing panel 264A, the third corner panel 262A, and the third securing panel 266A form a first strap along a first side of the retention panel 108. The second side panel 150, the second corner panel 260B, the second securing panel 264B, the fourth corner panel 262B, and the fourth securing panel 266B form a second strap along a second side of the retention panel 108.

In one or more examples, the blank 102 includes a first flap 272 hingedly connected to the first lower end panel 214B by a hinged connection. The hinged connection is defined, at least in part, by a cut line V1. The cut line V1 defines a tab P1 extending from an outer or lower edge of the first lower end panel 214B. The cut line V1 forms a receiver, in the form of an opening, slot or slit, for receiving a locking tab or detent D1. Each of the first and second securing panels 264A, 264B includes a locking tab or detent D1 extending from a lower edge thereof. In one or more examples, the first flap 272 may include a pair of wing portions 274A, 274B hingedly connected by a respective fold line 277A, 277B to a central portion of the first flap 272. The fold lines 277A, 277B may be divergently arranged with respect to each other, the fold lines 277A, 277B diverge towards the first lower end panel 214B. In one or more examples, each of the first and second securing panels 264A, 264B includes a cutaway in the form of an aperture A9. Each aperture A9 forms a second receiver for receiving a respective second locking tab or detent D2. The first upper end panel 214A includes a pair of cut lines 201, each of which is substantially “U” shaped, each cut line 201 defines a respective detent D2.

In one or more examples, the blank 102 includes a second flap 276 hingedly connected to the second lower end panel 216B by a hinged connection. The hinged connection is defined, at least in part, by a cut line V2. the cut line V2 defines a second tab P2 extending from an outer or lower edge of the second lower end panel 216B. The cut line V2 forms a receiver, in the form of an opening, slot or slit, for receiving a locking tab or detent D2. Each of the third and fourth securing panels 266A, 266B includes a locking tab or detent D2 extending from a lower edge thereof. The second flap 276 may include a pair of wing portions 278A, 278B hingedly connected by a respective fold line to a central portion of the second flap 276. The fold lines 279A, 279B may be divergently arranged with respect to each other, the fold lines 279A, 279B diverge towards the second lower end panel 216B. In one or more examples, each of the third and fourth securing panels 266A, 266B includes a cutaway in the form of an aperture A9. Each aperture A5 forms a second receiver for receiving a respective second locking tab or detent D2. The second upper end panel 216A comprises a pair of cut lines 201, each of which is substantially “U” shaped, each cut line 201 defines a respective detent D2.

In one or more examples, a third web panel 270A is hingedly connected at one end to the third securing panel 266A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 273A and is hingedly connected at a second end to the second upper end panel 216A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 275A. A fourth web panel 270B is hingedly connected at one end to the fourth securing panel 266B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 273B and is hingedly connected at a second end to the second upper end panel 216A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 275B.

In one or more examples, the article packaging 100 includes the handle structure 158 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 8). The handle structure 158 includes at least one handle opening 160. In the illustrated example, the blank 102 includes two handle openings 160. Each handle opening 160 is defined in or struck from a region of the retention panel 108 disposed centrally between four retention structures 110 (e.g., retention apertures 126) arranged as two adjacent pairs. A first one of the handle openings 160 is disposed between a first pair of endmost retention apertures 126 and an adjacent pair of intermediate retention apertures 126. A second one of the handle openings 160 is disposed between a second pair of endmost retention apertures 126 and an adjacent pair of intermediate retention apertures 126.

In one or more examples, the end structures are folded to secure the first and second side panels 142, 150 about sides of a group of articles 106, as shown in FIG. 8. The blank 102 can be applied to the group of articles 106 in a flat form and folded thereabout.

FIG. 10 illustrates another example of the article packaging 100 having a group of articles 106 contained therein. FIG. 11 illustrates another example of the blank 102 for forming the article packaging 100, such as shown in FIG. 10. In the illustrated examples, the article packaging 100, and the blank 102 used therefore, take the form of a top gripping clip article carrier having side and/or end structures and a cover structure. An example of such as carrier is a CanCollar® Shield Plus article carrier made by WestRock Company.

Referring to FIGS. 10 and 11, in these examples, the retention panel 108 forms a portion of the packaging structure of the article packaging 100. As an example, the retention panel 108 is one of a plurality of panels that form the article packaging 100 and/or the blank 102 used therefore.

In the examples illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11, the retention structures 110 formed by the retention panel 108 may be substantially the same as the retention structures 110 formed by the retention panel 108 described above and illustrated by example in FIGS. 1-5.

In one or more examples, the first side panel 142 is hingedly connected to the first side of the retention panel 108 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 144. The first cover panel 146 is hingedly connected to the first side panel 142 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 148. The second side panel 150 is hingedly connected to the second side of the retention panel 108 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 152. The second cover panel 154 is hingedly connected to the second side panel 150 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 156.

In one or more examples, the first cover panel 146 and the second cover panel 154 are arranged to be disposed in at least partially overlapping relationship with each other (e.g., as shown in FIG. 10). The overlapping portions of the first cover panel 146 and the second cover panel 154 are provided with the locking structure 166 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 10) for locking the first cover panel 146 and the second cover panel 154. In one or more examples, the locking structure 166 cooperates with the handle openings 160 (e.g., shown in FIG. 11) in the retention panel 108 to secure the first cover panel 146 and the second cover panel 154 to the retention panel 108.

In one or more examples, the locking structure 166 includes at least one receiver element, such as in the form of the lock opening 168 in the first cover panel 146. The locking structure also includes at least one locking element for being received in the receiver element, such as in the form of at least one locking tab 170.

Generally, the first cover panel 146, second cover panel 154, first and second side panels 142, 150 and retention panel 108 form a tubular structure. Each end of the tubular structure is closed by an end closure structure. A first end closure structure includes a first end panel 324 hingedly connected to a first end of the retention panel 108 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 325. A first top end flap 326 is hingedly connected to the first end panel 324 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 327. A first anchor flap 322A is hingedly connected to a first end of the first side panel 318 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 323A. The first anchor flap 322A is hingedly connected to the first top end flap 326 by a pair of hinged panels 328A, 330A. The pair of hinged panels 328A, 330A form a gusset. A first connecting panel 328A is hingedly connected to the first anchor flap 322A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. A second connecting panel 330A is hingedly connected to the first connecting panel 328A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The second connecting panel 330A is hingedly connected to the first top end flap 326 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. A second anchor flap 322B is hingedly connected to a first end of the second side panel 320 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 323B. The second anchor flap 322B is hingedly connected to the first top end flap 326 by a pair of hinged panels 328B, 330B forming a second gusset. A third connecting panel 328B is hingedly connected to the second anchor flap 322B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. A fourth connecting panel 330B is hingedly connected to the third connecting panel 328B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The fourth connecting panel 330B is hingedly connected to the first top end flap 326 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The first end panel 324 is separated from each of the first and second anchor flaps 322A, 322B by an aperture A10. The apertures A10 separate each of the pair of hinged panels 328A/330A, 328B/330B from the respective one of the first and second side panels 314, 316.

A second end closure structure includes a second end panel 334 hingedly connected to a second end of the main panel 312 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 335. A second top end flap 336 is hingedly connected to the second end panel 334 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 337. A third anchor flap 332A is hingedly connected to a second end of the first side panel 318 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 333A. The third anchor flap 332A is hingedly connected to the second top end flap 336 by a pair of hinged panels 338A, 340A forming a third gusset. A fifth connecting panel 338A is hingedly connected to the third anchor flap 332A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. A sixth connecting panel 340A is hingedly connected to the fifth connecting panel 338A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The sixth connecting panel 340A is hingedly connected to the second top end flap 336 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. A fourth anchor flap 332B is hingedly connected to a second end of the second side panel 320 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 333B. The fourth anchor flap 332B is hingedly connected to the second top end flap 336 by a pair of hinged panels 338B, 340B forming a fourth gusset. A seventh connecting panel 338B is hingedly connected to the fourth anchor flap 332B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. An eighth connecting panel 340B is hingedly connected to the seventh connecting panel 338B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The eighth connecting panel 340B is hingedly connected to the second top end flap 336 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The second end panel 334 is separated from each of the third and fourth anchor flaps 332A, 332B by an aperture A10. The apertures A10 separate each of the pair of hinged panels 338A/340A, 338B/340B from the respective one of the first and second side panels 314, 316.

Generally, in the examples illustrated in FIGS. 1-11, the blank 102 is applied to a group of the articles 106. In one or more examples, the blank 102 is lowered with respect to the group of articles 106. Each one of the retention structures 110 of the retention panel 108 is aligned with a respective one of the articles 106 in the group. Portions (e.g., upper portions) of the articles 106 pass through the retention panel 108. The retention structures 110 engage the articles 106 and secure the retention panel 108 to the articles 106.

In one or more examples, the retention tabs 128 about each one of the retention apertures 126 may be folded out of the plane of the retention panel 108. Each one of the retention tabs 128 may be folded about one of the articles 106 received in a corresponding one of the retention apertures 126. The retention panel 108 may deform about the article 106, for example, but not limited, to a shoulder portion of the article 106. For example, where the article 106 is a can, the shoulder portion may be provided by the neck-in, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 2.

In one or more examples, the retention edges 138 of the retention tabs 128 engage beneath a feature or projection of the article 106. For example, the feature or projection may be located about the neck or chime of the article 106 (e.g., which may provide a flange) of the article 106. As an example, when the article 106 is a can 118, the projection may be provided by a canner's end seam. In other examples, the projection may be provided by a ridge or undercut shaping of the article 106 or by an end closure of the article 106, for example, but not limited, to a crown cork or closure. In this way, the retention edges 138 grip or hold the article 106 and prevent or inhibit the article 106 from unintentionally separating from the retention panel 108.

In one or more examples, the retention surface 112 of the retention tabs 128, having the friction coating 104, contact a portion of the exterior surface of the article 106. For example, the retention surface 112 of the retention tabs 128, having the friction coating 104, contact a portion of a side surface of the article 106 below the feature or projection engaged by the retention edges 138 of the retention tabs 128. As an example, when the article 106 is the can 118, the friction coating 104 of the retention surface 112 contacts a side surface of the neck of the article 106. In this way, the friction coating 104 of the retention surface 112 grips or holds the article 106 and impedes (e.g., prevents or inhibits) the article 106 from unintentionally moving (e.g., rotationally and/or linearly) relative to the retention panel 108.

In the examples of the blank 102 and the article packaging 100 described above and illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, after the retention panel 108 is lowered with respect to the group of articles 106, the blank 102 is folded about fold lines 144 and 152 to bring the first side panel 142 into substantially perpendicular relationship with the retention panel 108 and to bring the second side panel 150 into substantially perpendicular relationship with the retention panel 108. The blank 102 is folded about fold line 148 to fold the first cover panel 146 over the tops of the articles 106. The blank 102 is folded about fold line 156 to fold the second cover panel 154 over the tops of the articles 106 and into overlapping relationship with the first cover panel 146 to form a composite top panel.

In one or more examples, the locking tabs 170 are displaced out of the plane of the second cover panel 154, downwardly so as to pass through a corresponding one of the lock openings 168. The locking tabs 170 are engaged with the retention panel 108, passing through a corresponding one of the handle openings 160. Shoulders of the locking tab 170 engage with an underside of the retention panel 108, for example, the underside being the second surface 116 of the retention panel 108 opposing the first surface 114 through which the locking tab 170 was received.

In one or more examples, the locking structures 166 (e.g., the lock openings 168 and the locking tabs 170) and the handle openings 160 cooperate to form the handle structure 158 for carrying the article packaging 100. In one or more examples, the locking tabs 170 may also provide a cushioning that improves comfort when the article packaging 100 is carried by inserting one or more fingers into the aligned openings in the composite top panel and the retention panel 108.

In the examples of the blank 102 and the article packaging 100 described above and illustrated in FIGS. 8 and 9, after the retention panel 108 is lowered with respect to the group of articles 106, the first and second side panels 142, 150 are folded about opposing sides of the group of articles 106. The corner panels 260A, 260B, 262A, 262B are folded about the corners of the group of articles 106 and the securing panels 264A, 264B, 266A, 266B are folded about ends of the group of articles 106. The first and second upper end panels 214A, 216A are folded downwards about a respective end of the group of articles 106. The first and second lower end panels 214B, 116B are folded upwardly with respect to the first and second upper end panels 214A, 216A such that the detents D2 can be inserted into the apertures A9. The first and second lower end panels 214B, 216B are folded downwardly to return to a substantially coplanar relationship with the respective one of the first and second upper end panels 214A, 216A to which they are hinged. The first and second flaps 272, 276 are folded internally, the wing portions 274A, 274B, 278A, 278B are folded with respect to the central portion so as to pass the side walls of adjacently disposed articles B. The cut lines V1, V2 form an opening in which the locking tab D1 of each securing panel 264A, 264B, 266A, 266B is received. The wing portions 274A, 274B, 278A, 278B arc folded into coplanar relationship with the central portion of the respective flap 272, 276; in this way the flaps 272, 276 are held in position by the adjacently disposed articles B. The flaps 272, 276 are held in the folded condition by the articles B and thus inhibit disengagement of the locking tabs D1 from the receiver. The flaps 272, 276 in the folded condition are in face to face relationship with the portions of the detents D2 received in the apertures A9; and may inhibit disengagement of detents D2 from the apertures A9. The tabs P1, P2 may conceal or protect the locking tabs D1 so as to improve security of the locking tabs D1 in the receiver.

In the examples of the blank 102 and the article packaging 100 described above and illustrated in FIGS. 10 and 11, after the retention panel 108 is lowered with respect to the group of articles 106, the blank 102 may be partially folded about fold lines 144, 152 to bring the first and second side panels 142, 150 into non-coplanar relationship with the retention panel 108. The blank 102 is folded about fold lines 323A, 323B, 333A, 333B to fold the first, second, third and fourth anchor flaps 322A, 322B, 332A, 332B into substantially face to face relationship with the first or second side panels 142, 150 to which they are hinged. The blank 102 is folded about fold lines 325, 335 to fold the first and second end panels 324, 334 into substantially at least perpendicular relationship with the retention panel 108. In some examples, the first and second end panels 324, 334 may be folded through an angle greater than 90° so as to be inclined. The blank 102 is folded about fold lines 327, 337 to fold the first and second top end flaps 326, 336 with respect to the respective one of the first and second end panels 324, 334 to which they are hinged. The first and second top end flaps 326, 336 may be folded over an upper end of an article 106 or articles 106 disposed adjacent to the first and second ends of the retention panel 108. The first and second top end flaps 326, 336 may be folded to be substantially parallel to the retention panel 108. The first and second end panels 324, 334 and first and second top end flaps 326, 336 may be folded automatically in response to folding the first, second, third and fourth anchor flaps 322A, 322B, 332A, 332B into substantially face contacting relationship with the respective one of the first and second side panels 142, 150. The blank 102 is folded about fold lines 144, 152 to bring the first and second side panels 142, 150 into substantially perpendicular relationship with the retention panel 108. The blank 102 is folded about fold line 148 to fold the first cover panel 146 over the tops of the articles 106. The blank 102 is folded about fold line 156 to fold the second cover panel 154 over the tops of the articles 106 and into overlapping relationship with the first cover panel 146 to form a composite top panel. The locking tabs 170 are displaced out of the plane of the second cover panel 154, downwardly so as to pass through a respective one of the lock openings 168. The locking tabs 170 are engaged with the retention panel 108, passing through a corresponding one of the handle openings 160.

In one or more examples, the article packaging 100 may, advantageously, be assembled or constructed from the blank 102 without use of glue or adhesive to secure the panels (e.g., retention panel 108, first cover panel 146 and second cover panel 154) together in an erected condition.

In one or more examples, the article packaging 100 may, beneficially, conceal part of the articles 106 from view while maintaining another part of the article 106 in an outwardly presented orientation. As an example, the composite top panel (e.g., formed by the at least partially overlapping first cover panel 146 and second cover panel 154) may conceal and/or protect a top or upper region of the articles 106.

The principles of the retention panel 108 that forms at least a portion of the packaging structure of the article packaging 100 and that includes the retention structure 110 having a retention surface 112 with the friction coating 104 to impede movement of the article 106 or articles 106 relative to the article packaging 100 may also be applied to various other types of packaging, carriers, cartons, and the like.

FIG. 12 illustrates another example of the article packaging 100 having a group of articles 106 contained therein. FIG. 13 illustrates an example of a portion of the article packaging 100 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 12), in section view, engaged with one of the articles 106. In the illustrated examples, the article packaging 100, and the blank 102 used therefore (not shown), take the form or a wraparound carton or carrier.

Referring to FIG. 12, in these examples, the retention panel 108 forms a portion of the packaging structure of the article packaging 100. In one or more examples, the article packaging 100, and the blank 102 used therefore (not shown), include a plurality of panels, such as side panels 182 (or end panels), a bottom panel 184, and a top panel 186. The panels form, or define, an at least partially enclosed internal volume within which the articles 106 are held.

In one or more examples, as illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13, the retention panel 108 forms at least a portion of the bottom panel 184 of the article packaging 100. In other examples (not explicitly illustrated), the retention panel 108 forms at least a portion of the top panel 186 of the article packaging 100. In still other examples (not explicitly illustrated), the retention panel 108 forms at least a portion of the bottom panel 184 and a second retention panel 108 forms at least a portion of the top panel 186.

Referring to FIG. 13, in one or more examples, the panel surface 130 of the retention panel 108 forms an interior bottom surface of the article packaging 100. The retention structure 110 is formed by a portion of the retention panel 108. The retention surface 112 is formed by at least a portion of the panel surface 130. The retention surface 112 is configured to contact a portion of the article 106. For example, the retention surface 112 contacts a portion of a bottom surface of the article 106. The friction coating 104 is disposed on the retention surface 112 (e.g., a portion of the panel surface 130). The friction coating 104 contacts the surface of the article 106 to impede movement of the article 106 relative to the article packaging 100.

FIG. 14 illustrates another example of the article packaging 100 having a group of articles 106 contained therein. FIG. 15 illustrates an example of a portion of the article packaging 100 (e.g., as shown in FIG. 14), in section view, engaged with one of the articles 106. In the illustrated examples, the article packaging 100, and the blank 102 used therefore (not shown), take the form or a basket-type carton or carrier.

Referring to FIG. 14, in these examples, the retention panel 108 forms a portion of the packaging structure of the article packaging 100. In one or more examples, the article packaging 100, and the blank 102 used therefore (not shown), include a plurality of panels, such as side panels 182 (and/or end panels), a bottom panel 184, and one or more divider panels 188. The panels form, or define, an at least partially enclosed internal volume within which the articles 106 are held. The divider panels 188 divide the internal volume into a plurality of cells, in which each of the articles 106 is contained within a corresponding one of the cells.

In one or more examples, as illustrated in FIGS. 14 and 15, the retention panel 108 forms at least a portion of the bottom panel 184 of the article packaging 100.

Referring to FIG. 15, in one or more examples, the panel surface 130 of the retention panel 108 forms an interior bottom surface of the article packaging 100. The retention structure 110 is formed by a portion of the retention panel 108. The retention surface 112 is formed by at least a portion of the panel surface 130. The retention surface 112 is configured to contact a portion of the article 106. For example, the retention surface 112 contacts a portion of a bottom surface of the article 106. The friction coating 104 is disposed on the retention surface 112 (e.g., a portion of the panel surface 130). The friction coating 104 contacts the surface of the article 106 to impede movement of the article 106 relative to the article packaging 100.

It can be appreciated that the friction coating 104 may be disposed or applied on various other interior surfaces of the article packaging 100 that contact the articles 106.

By way of examples, the present disclosure is also directed to methods for forming the article packaging 100. In one or more examples, the method includes a step of forming the retention structure 110, at least in part, by the retention panel 108 of the blank 102. The retention structure 110 includes the retention surface 112. The retention structure 110 may take any one of various forms or configurations, as described herein above. The method also includes a step of applying the friction coating 104 to at least a portion of the retention surface 112.

By way of examples, the present disclosure is also directed to methods for packaging at least one article 106 using the article packaging 100. In one or more examples, the method includes a step of engaging the article 106 using the retention structure 110 formed, at least in part, by the retention panel 108 of the article packaging 100. The retention structure 110 includes the retention surface 112 that contacts the article 106. The method also includes a step of impeding movement of the article 106 relative to the retention panel 108 using the friction coating 104 disposed on at least a portion of the retention surface 112.

In one or more examples, the blank 102 and, thus, the article packaging 100 are formed from a sheet material, such as a paperboard substrate. The paperboard substrate may be, for example, a solid bleached sulfate (SBS) substrate, an uncoated natural kraft (UNC) substrate, or a coated natural kraft (CNK) substrate. The paperboard substrate may be formed from virgin fibers, recycled fibers, or combinations thereof.

In one or more examples, the blank 102 includes at least a paperboard substrate. The material of the paperboard substrate may be selected from any conventional paperboard, for example, ranging in weight upwardly from about 10 pt., preferably from about 16 pt. to about 28 pt. (0.028″/˜0.7 mm). An example of such a substrate is a 27-point (pt.) SBS board (solid bleached sulfate paperboard coated on one side, trade name PrintKote®) or CNK® board (Coated Natural Kraft®—an unbleached kraft paperboard having a clay coating on one side, trade name CarrierKote™) manufactured by WestRock® Company. The paperboard substrate may be a bleached or unbleached board. The board may be coated on at least one side, optionally the side opposite the lamination, with a conventional coating selected for compatibility with the printing method and board composition.

In one or more examples, the blank 102 may include a tear resistant layer laminated to the paperboard layer. It optionally includes an adhesive layer between the paperboard substrate and the tear resistant layer. The tear resistant layer may be disposed over the uncoated side of the paperboard substrate and may be formed of polymeric material and secured to the substrate. The tear resistant layer imparts toughness to the laminate structure. Suitable tear resistant materials may include, but not be limited to, tear resistant laminated sheet material, e.g., NATRALOCK®, which may include a layer of an n-axially oriented film, e.g. MYLAR®, which is a bi-axially oriented polyester, oriented nylon, cross-laminated polyolefin or high-density polyolefin. The orientation and cross-laminated structure of these materials contribute to the tear resistant characteristic. Also, tear resistance may be attributed to the chemical nature of the tear resistant material such as extruded metallocene-catalyzed polyethylene (mPE).

Alternatively, in one or more examples, the tear resistant layer may be a layer of linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE). In examples where linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) or mPE is used, it is not necessary to incorporate an adhesive layer. Other suitable materials having a high level of tear resistance may also be used. The adhesive layer may be formed of polyolefin material such as a low-density polyethylene (LDPE). The adhesive layer may be placed between the substrate and the tear resistant layer to secure the tear resistant layer to the substrate.

The preceding detailed description refers to the accompanying drawings, which illustrate specific examples of the disclosed article packaging, blanks, and methods described by the present disclosure. It will be understood that the disclosed examples are merely exemplary embodiments of the way in which certain aspects of the of the disclosed packaging system and method can be implemented and do not represent an exhaustive list of all of the ways the of the disclosed packaging system and method may be embodied. Other examples having different structures and operations do not depart from the scope of the present disclosure. Like reference numerals may refer to the same feature, element, or component in the different drawings. The figures are not necessarily to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components. Throughout the present disclosure, any one of a plurality of items may be referred to individually as the item and a plurality of items may be referred to collectively as the items. Moreover, as used herein, a feature, element, component, or step preceded with the word “a” or “an” should be understood as not excluding a plurality of features, elements, components or steps, unless such exclusion is explicitly recited.

Illustrative, non-exhaustive examples, which may be, but are not necessarily, claimed, of the subject matter according to the present disclosure are provided above. Reference herein to “example” means that one or more feature, structure, element, component, characteristic, and/or operational step described in connection with the example is included in at least one aspect, embodiment, and/or implementation of the subject matter according to the present disclosure. Thus, the phrases “an example,” “another example,” “one or more examples,” and similar language throughout the present disclosure may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same example. Further, the subject matter characterizing any one example may, but does not necessarily, include the subject matter characterizing any other example. Moreover, the subject matter characterizing any one example may be, but is not necessarily, combined with the subject matter characterizing any other example.

It is to be understood that not necessarily all objects or advantages may be achieved in accordance with any particular example described herein. Thus, for example, those skilled in the art will recognize that certain examples may be configured to operate in a manner that achieves or optimizes one advantage or group of advantages as taught herein without necessarily achieving other objects or advantages as may be taught or suggested herein.

It should be appreciated that, when used to modify a structure, an element, an item, a component or a feature described herein, the terms “front,” “back,” “rear,” “bottom,” “top,” “left,” “right,” “side,” “end,” “upper,” “lower,” “inner,” “outer,” as well as similar terms or other forms of such terms, are relative and refer to an example of a spatial relationship between structures, elements, items, components or features. As such, examples of the blank 102 and the article packaging 100, described herein and illustrated in the figures, are not intended to be limited by the specific relative terms used to describe any structure, element, item, component or feature thereof.

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 include 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.

As used herein, the phrase “in registry with” and similar terms or variations of such term refer 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.

As used herein, the terms “rotate,” “rotating,” “rotation,” and similar terms refer to movement of a body around an axis and includes a condition in which the axis extends through a center of mass of the body (e.g., rotate), a condition in which the axis extends through the body, but not through the center of mass of the body (e.g., gyrate or pivot), and a condition in which the axis does not extend through the body (e.g., revolve).

Conditional language such as, among others, “can” or “may,” unless specifically stated otherwise, are otherwise understood within the context as used in general to convey that certain examples include, while other examples do not include, certain features, elements and/or steps. Thus, such conditional language is not generally intended to imply that features, elements and/or steps are in any way required for one or more examples or that one or more examples necessarily include logic for deciding, with or without user input or prompting, whether these features, elements and/or steps are included or are to be performed in any particular example.

Unless otherwise indicated, the terms “first,” “second,” “third,” etc. are used herein merely as labels, and are not intended to impose ordinal, positional, or hierarchical requirements on the items to which these terms refer. Moreover, reference to, e.g., a “second” item does not require or preclude the existence of, e.g., a “first” or lower-numbered item, and/or, e.g., a “third” or higher-numbered item.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that not all elements described and illustrated in FIGS. 1-15 need be included in every example and not all elements described herein are necessarily depicted in each illustrative example. Unless otherwise explicitly stated, the schematic illustrations of the examples depicted in FIGS. 1-15 are not meant to imply structural limitations with respect to the illustrative example. Rather, although one illustrative structure is indicated, it is to be understood that the structure may be modified when appropriate. Additionally, modifications, additions and/or omissions may be made to the illustrated structure.

Further, references throughout the present specification to features, advantages, or similar language used herein do not imply that all of the features and advantages that may be realized with the examples disclosed herein should be, or are in, any single example. Rather, language referring to the features and advantages is understood to mean that a specific feature, advantage, or characteristic described in connection with an example is included in at least one example. Thus, discussion of features, advantages, and similar language used throughout the present disclosure may, but do not necessarily, refer to the same example.

The described features, advantages, and characteristics of one example may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more other examples. One skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the examples described herein may be practiced without one or more of the specific features or advantages of a particular example. In other instances, additional features and advantages may be recognized in certain examples that may not be present in all examples. Furthermore, although various examples of the article packaging 100, blanks 102, and methods have been shown and described, modifications may occur to those skilled in the art upon reading the specification. The present application includes such modifications and is limited only by the scope of the claims.

ARTICLE PACKAGING METHODS, AND BLANKS USED THEREFORE

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