Carrier For Containers

Abstract

A carrier for holding a plurality of containers includes a central panel having a plurality of container retention openings for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers, a plurality of container retention tabs positioned extending into respective container retention openings of the plurality of container retention openings, the plurality of container retention tabs positioned for engaging a respective container of the plurality of containers, at least one container retention tab of the plurality of container retention tabs foldably connected to the central panel at a fold line, and at least one deflection tab positioned extending away from the at least one container retention tab of the plurality of container retention tabs, the fold line intersecting a respective at least one deflection tab.

Description

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure generally relates to cartons or carriers for holding, displaying, and/or transporting containers.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

According to one aspect, the disclosure is generally directed to a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the carrier comprising a central panel comprising a plurality of container retention openings for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers, a plurality of container retention tabs positioned extending into respective container retention openings of the plurality of container retention openings, the plurality of container retention tabs positioned for engaging a respective container of the plurality of containers, at least one container retention tab of the plurality of container retention tabs foldably connected to the central panel at a fold line, and at least one deflection tab positioned extending away from the at least one container retention tab of the plurality of container retention tabs, the fold line intersecting a respective at least one deflection tab.

According to another aspect, the disclosure is generally directed to a blank for forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the blank comprising a central panel comprising a plurality of container retention openings for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers, a plurality of container retention tabs positioned extending into respective container retention openings of the plurality of container retention openings, the plurality of container retention tabs positioned for engaging a respective container of the plurality of containers when the carrier is formed from the blank, at least one container retention tab of the plurality of container retention tabs foldably connected to the central panel at a fold line, and at least one deflection tab positioned extending away from the at least one container retention tab of the plurality of container retention tabs, the fold line intersecting a respective at least one deflection tab.

According to another aspect, the disclosure is generally directed to a method of forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the method comprising obtaining a blank, the blank comprising a central panel comprising a plurality of container retention openings, a plurality of container retention tabs positioned extending into respective container retention openings of the plurality of container retention openings, at least one container retention tab of the plurality of container retention tabs foldably connected to the central panel at a fold line, and at least one deflection tab positioned extending away from the at least one container retention tab of the plurality of container retention tabs, the fold line intersecting a respective at least one deflection tab, and positioning the blank such that the plurality of container retention openings are arranged for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers and such that the plurality of container retention tabs are positioned for engaging a respective container of the plurality of containers.

According to another aspect, the disclosure is generally directed to a package, the package comprising a plurality of containers and a carrier holding the plurality of containers. The carrier comprises a central panel comprising a plurality of container retention openings at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers, a plurality of container retention tabs positioned extending into respective container retention openings of the plurality of container retention openings, the plurality of container retention tabs positioned engaging a respective container of the plurality of containers, at least one container retention tab of the plurality of container retention tabs foldably connected to the central panel at a fold line, and at least one deflection tab positioned extending away from the at least one container retention tab of the plurality of container retention tabs, the fold line intersecting a respective at least one deflection tab.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate the above stated advantages and other advantages and benefits of various additional embodiments reading the following detailed description of the embodiments with reference to the below-listed drawing figures. It is within the scope of the present disclosure that the above-discussed aspects be provided both individually and in various combinations.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

According to common practice, the various features of the drawings discussed below are not necessarily drawn to scale. Dimensions of various features and elements in the drawings may be expanded or reduced to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a plan view of an outer surface of a blank for forming a carrier according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 1A is an enlarged view of a portion of the blank of FIG. 1.

FIG. 1B is an enlarged view of another portion of the blank of FIG. 1.

FIG. 1C is an enlarged view of another portion of the blank of FIG. 1.

FIG. 1D is an enlarged view of another portion of the blank of FIG. 1.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a container of a type for use with carriers and packages according to the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a package and carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 1 according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 4 is an enlarged view of another portion of the package and carrier of FIG. 3.

FIG. 5 is an enlarged perspective view of another portion of the package and carrier of FIG. 3.

FIG. 6 is an enlarged perspective view of another portion of the package and carrier of FIG. 3.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the package and carrier of FIG. 3 being grasped by a user.

Corresponding parts are designated by corresponding reference numbers throughout the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure generally relates to carriers, packages, constructs, sleeves, cartons, or the like, for holding and displaying containers such as jars, bottles, cans, etc. The containers can be used for packaging food and beverage products, for example. The containers can be made from materials suitable in composition for packaging the particular food or beverage item, and the materials include, but are not limited to, glass; plastics such as PET, LDPE, LLDPE, HDPE, PP, PS, PVC, EVOH, and Nylon; and the like; aluminum and/or other metals; or any combination thereof.

Packages according to the present disclosure can accommodate containers of numerous different shapes. For the purpose of illustration and not for the purpose of limiting the scope of the disclosure, the following detailed description describes beverage containers (e.g., generally cylindrical containers such as aluminum cans) at least partially disposed within the package embodiments. In this specification, the terms “lower,” “bottom,” “upper” and “top” indicate orientations determined in relation to fully erected packages.

FIG. 1 is a plan view of an exterior surface 101 of a blank 103 for forming a carrier 105 (FIG. 3) according to a first exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. FIGS. 1A, 1B, 1C, and 1D are detail views of portions of the blank 103. As described further herein, the carrier 105 can be configured for holding/supporting/retaining/receiving a plurality of containers. The carrier 105 can be provided with one or more containers to form a package 107 (FIG. 3).

As shown in FIG. 3, the carrier 105 is sized to contain or support three containers C, with three containers B being attached to a front portion 106 of the carrier 105 and three containers C being attached to a back portion 108 of the carrier 105. With momentary reference to FIG. 2, in the illustrated embodiment, the containers C can be beverage cans having a lower base portion B, a top portion T generally comprising a neck N that tapers inwardly from the lower base portion B, a flange or flange portion F at the top of the neck portion that extends radially outward from the neck portion N, and a top surface TS below the flange portion that includes a pull-tab P. In some embodiments, the flange portion F can have the form of a rolled rim or chime for being engaged by one or more portions of the carrier 105/package 107, as described further herein.

In some embodiments, the containers C could be beverage cans or another suitable type and size of container. The carrier 105 can be provided together with one or more of the containers C as a package 107.

Still referring to FIGS. 1, 1A, 1B, IC, and 1D the blank 103 has a longitudinal axis L1 and a lateral axis L2. The blank 103 can also have an upper or exterior surface 101 and a lower or interior surface such that a thickness of the blank 103 and carrier 105 formed therefrom can be at least partially defined from the exterior surface 101 to the interior surface. In one embodiment, the axis L1 can be a lateral axis and the axis L2 can be a longitudinal axis.

The blank 103 comprises an attachment panel or central panel 121 that includes container retention features for engaging containers C when the carrier 105 is formed from the blank 103, as described further herein.

In the illustrated embodiment, the container retention features can include a plurality of container retention openings 123 at least partially defined by the central panel 121 and for at least partially receiving respective containers of the plurality of containers C when the carrier 105/package 107 is formed from the blank 103. The central panel 121 can at least partially define two rows of three container retention openings 123 (from the perspective of FIG. 1), as shown, though a different number of container retention openings 123 can be provided to accommodate a different number and/or arrangement of containers C.

A plurality of container retention tabs can also extend into the respective container retention openings 123 for at least partially engaging a respective container C of the plurality of containers C.

With additional reference to FIG. 1A, the container retention tabs can include a plurality of container retention tabs 125. Each container retention tab 125, as shown, can include a respective first edge or central edge 127 positioned protruding at least partially into the respective container retention opening 123, and respective oblique edges or respective second and third edges 129, 131 extending from respective endpoints of the central edge 127 away from the respective container retention opening 123.

The edges 129, 131 of the respective container retention tabs 125 can be at least partially defined by segments of cuts 133 so as to be at least partially separable from the central panel 121 and/or from adjacent container retention tabs, as described further herein.

Each cut 133 (broadly, “second cut”), as shown, can include a generally oblique segment 135 extending from the respective endpoint of the respective edge 127 to and intersecting a respective curved segment 137 of the respective cut 133. In some embodiments, the respective curved segments 137 of the cuts 133 can have a generally semicircular configuration such that the respective cuts 133 can have a generally J-shaped or generally hook-shaped configuration.

A respective curved line of weakening 139, can be positioned spaced away from the central edge 127 of the respective container retention tab 125. As shown, the respective container retention tabs 125 associated with the first and third container retention openings 123 in each row thereof (e.g., the corner container retention openings 123 of the central panel 121) can be provided with a respective curved line of weakening 139, while the container retention tabs 125 associated with the middle container retention openings 123 in each row can be devoid of the line of weakening 139. In some embodiments, a different arrangement could be provided.

At least one container retention tab 141 can be provided adjacent the respective container retention tab 125. As shown in FIG. 1B, each container retention tab 141 can have a respective first edge or central edge 143 with one or more oblique/angled portions positioned protruding at least partially into the respective container retention opening 123, and respective second and third edges 145, 147 extending from respective endpoints of the central edge 143 away from the respective container retention opening 123. A respective curved line of weakening 149, can be positioned spaced away from the central edge 143 of the respective container retention tab 141.

The edges 145, 147 of the respective container retention tabs 141 can be at least partially defined by the cut 133 and an oblique cut 151, respectively, so as to be at least partially separable from the central panel 121 and/or from adjacent container retention tabs, as described further herein.

In this regard, respective deflection regions 153 of the respective container retention tabs 141 can be at least partially defined between the respective segments 135, 137 of the respective cuts 133, and respective fourth curved edges 155 of the respective container retention tabs 141 can be at least partially defined by the respective curved segments 137 of the respective cuts 133. In this regard, the respective curved edges 155 can intersect the respective edges 129, 131 of the respective container retention tabs 125.

As shown, a container retention tabs 141 can be provided adjacent each container retention tabs 125 associated with the corner container openings 123 of the blank 103/carrier 105, and a pair of container retention tabs 141 can be provided adjacent the container retention tabs 125 associated with the respective second/middle container retention openings 123 associated with each row thereof, e.g., such that a container retention tab 141 is adjacent each side thereof.

A plurality of container retention tabs 157 can be positioned adjacent respective container retention tabs 141 associated with a respective container retention opening 123.

Each container retention tab 157, as shown in FIG. 1C, can have a generally oblique first edge or central edge 159 interrupted by a generally curved recessed notch 161, and a pair of oblique edges 163, 165 extending away from the respective container retention opening 123 and endpoints of the respective edge 159. The respective edges 163, 165 can be at least partially defined by respective oblique cuts 151 so as to be at least partially separable from a respective adjacent container retention tab 157 or container retention tab 141 at the respective cut 151.

A respective curved line of weakening 167, can be positioned spaced away from the central edge 159 of the respective container retention tab 157.

With continued reference to FIGS. 1, 1A, 1B, and 1C, and with particular reference to FIG. 1D, a respective container retention tab 169 can be positioned extending into the respective corner container retention openings 123 proximate the respective corners of the blank 103/carrier 105. Each container retention tab 169, as shown, can have a configuration generally similar to that described above with respect to the container retention tab 125, except that the cuts 133 are provided in a reversed orientation and the container retention tabs 169 can be at least partially bisected by an oblique line of weakening 171 (broadly, “third oblique line of weakening”) so as to form a respective first portion 173 and second portion 175 of the respective container retention tab 169.

Furthermore, instead of a respective line of weakening 139, a respective oblique line of weakening 177 associated with each container retention tab 169 can be positioned intersecting the line of weakening 171.

In this regard, each first portion 173 of the respective container retention tab 169 can have the respective portion of the central edge 127, the edge 129, the edge 155, and an edge 179 at least partially defined by the line of weakening 171.

Furthermore, the respective first portions 173 can have a respective deflection region 181 at least partially defined between the segments 135, 137 of the respective cuts 133, and a respective deflection region 183 at least partially defined between the lines of weakening 171, 177.

Similarly, each second portion 175 of the respective container retention tab 169 can have the respective portion of the central edge 127, the edge 131, the edge 155, and an edge 185 at least partially defined by the line of weakening 171.

Furthermore, the respective second portions 175 can have a respective deflection region 187 at least partially defined between the segments 135, 137 of the respective cuts 133, and a respective deflection region 188 at least partially defined between the lines of weakening 171, 177.

The container retention features of the blank 103 and carrier formed therefrom can also include a plurality of deflection tabs positioned extending away from a respective container retention tab.

In the illustrated embodiment, the deflection tabs can include respective deflection tabs 189 extending away from the respective container retention tabs 169 and respective adjacent container retention tabs 125. Each deflection tab 189, as shown, can include a curved cut 191 (broadly, “first cut”) having a generally larger concave segment 193 and a generally smaller convex segment 195, the respective convex segment 193 generally extending from an alignment with the respective container retention tab 125 to an alignment with the respective container retention tab 169 along and in spaced relation with the respective cut 133, and the respective concave segment 195 positioned spaced away from the respective edge 127 of the respective container retention tab 169.

In this regard, the respective deflection tabs 189 can be a point of attachment between respective portions of a container retention tab 169 and a respective adjacent container retention tab 125. In some embodiments, such attachment can allow for distribution of stresses between respective portions of a container retention tab 125 and an adjacent deflection tab 189/container retention tab 169.

Respective deflection tabs 197 can also extend away from the respective container retention tabs 125 and respective adjacent container retention tabs 141. Each deflection tab 197, as shown, can be at least partially defined by a respective curved cut 199 (broadly, “first cut”) having a convex configuration relative to the fold line 149 extending from an alignment with the respective container retention tab 125 to an alignment with the respective container retention tab 141 along and in spaced relation with the respective cut 133.

Deflection tabs 201 can also extend away from a respective container retention tab 157, the respective deflection tabs 201 at least partially defined by a respective cut 203 interrupting the respective line of weakening 167. In this regard, the cuts 203 can be generally aligned with and spaced away from the respective notches 161.

In some embodiments, one or more of the deflection tabs 189, 197, 201 can be considered a portion of a respective adjacent container retention tab.

As described herein, the container retention features of the blank 103 and carrier 105/package 107 formed therefrom can include one or more of the respective container openings 123 and/or one or more of the respective container retention tabs and/or deflection tabs, though the container retention features can include a greater or fewer number of components of the blank 103/carrier 105/package 107.

The blank 103 and carrier 105 formed therefrom can also include respective pairs of diverging oblique lines of weakening 205, 207 (broadly, “first oblique line of weakening” and “second oblique line of weakening”, respectively) positioned proximate respective corners thereof to form respective stress relief regions 209 of the blank 103/carrier 105 for facilitating stress distribution when the carrier 105 is engaged with at least one container C to form the package 107, as described further herein.

The blank 103 and carrier 105 formed therefrom can further include handle features for facilitating grasping of the package 107/carrier 105 formed from the blank 103. In some embodiments, the handle features can include a pair of longitudinally opposed handle openings 210 (FIG. 7) with respective handle reinforcement flaps 211, 213 positioned extending at least partially therein.

The respective handle reinforcement flaps 211 can be foldably connected to the central panel 121 at a respective oblique line of weakening 215, and can be at least partially separable therefrom at a curved line of weakening 217 that intersects the oblique line of weakening 215.

The handle reinforcement flaps 211 can be separably connected to the respective handle reinforcement flaps 213 at a respective longitudinal cut 219. Each handle reinforcement flap 213, as shown, can be foldably connected to the central panel 121 at a respective oblique line of weakening 221, and can be at least partially separable therefrom at a curved line of weakening 223 that intersects the oblique line of weakening 221.

In some embodiments, a lateral line of weakening, as shown, can extend from the cut 219 at least partially into the respective handle reinforcement flap 213. As shown, one or more oblique lines of weakening can extend from the respective lines of weakening 215, 221, for example, to facilitate engagement of the blank 103/carrier 105 by a user.

With additional reference to FIGS. 3-6, formation of the carrier 105 and package 107 from the blank 103 will be described according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. In some embodiments, the carrier 105 can be formed from the blank 103 upon activation of one or more container retention features. In some embodiments, the carrier 105 can be considered an activated or otherwise manipulated state of the blank 103 as shown in FIG. 1.

In some embodiments, the central panel 121 can be lowered onto a plurality of containers C such that at least the top portion T of a respective container C (including, but not limited to, the top surface TS and pull tab P, the flange portion F, and at least a portion of the neck portion N) can be at least partially received through a respective container opening 123.

Upon engagement of the flange portion F of a respective container C with the respective container retention tabs associated with a respective container opening 123, the flange portion F can at least partially cause the respective container retention tabs 125 to at least partially separate from the respective adjacent container retention tabs 141, 169 and from respective adjacent portions of the central panel 121 at the respective cuts 133 and fold at least partially upwardly relative to the central panel 121/remainder thereof at the respective line of weakening 139. Respective container retention tabs 125 that are devoid of the lines of weakening 139 can also at least partially fold and/or flex, bend, etc. relative to the remainder of the central panel 121.

Simultaneously or thereafter, the respective container retention 141 can at least partially separate from the respective adjacent container retention tabs 125, 157 at the respective cuts 133, 151. Upon contact by the flange portion F of a respective container C, the respective container retention tabs 135 can fold at least partially upwardly relative to the central panel 121/remainder thereof at the respective line of weakening 149.

Simultaneously or thereafter, the respective container retention tabs 157 can at least partially separate from the respective adjacent container retention tabs 141, 157 at the respective cuts 151. Upon contact by the flange portion F of a respective container C, the respective container retention tabs 157 can fold at least partially upwardly relative to the central panel 121/remainder thereof at the respective line of weakening 167.

Simultaneously or thereafter, the respective container retention tabs 169 can at least partially separate from the respective adjacent container retention tabs 125 at the respective cuts 133. Upon contact by the flange portion F of a respective container C, the respective container retention tabs 169 can fold, bend, flex, etc., at least partially upwardly relative to the central panel 121/remainder thereof. Furthermore, the respective portions 173, 175 of the respective container retention tabs 169 can at least partially separate from each other at the respective lines of weakening 171 and can at least partially separate from respective portions of the central panel 121 at the respective line of weakening 177.

In such an arrangement, the respective container retention tabs 125, 141, 157, 169 can extend at least partially upwardly from the central panel 121 to the respective flange portion F of a respective container C. In some embodiments, the respective container retention tabs 125, 141, 157, 169 can extend obliquely from the central panel 121 to the respective flange portion F to contact a lower surface or edge thereof in a bracing relationship. In some embodiments, one or more of the container retention tabs 125, 141, 157, 169 can be arranged so as to at least partially contour about the curvature of a respective neck portion N of a respective container C. For example, in some embodiments, the recessed notch 161 along the edge 159 of the respective container retention tabs 157 can facilitate such contouring of a respective container retention tab 157.

Accordingly, the respective edges 127, 129, 131 of the respective container retention tabs 125, the respective edges 143, 145, 147, 155 of a respective container retention tab 141, the respective edges 159, 163, 165 of a respective container retention tab 157, and respective edges 127, 129, 131, 155, 179, 185 of a respective container retention tab 169, and respective portions thereof, can be presented as exposed or free edges of the respective container retention tab that are separated from a respective adjacent container retention tab and respective adjacent portions of the central panel 121.

The aforementioned movement of the container retention tabs 141 can cause the respective deflection regions 153 to at least partially separate from the central panel 121 at the respective portions of the respective cuts 133 such that the respective deflection regions 153 can be free to move downwardly relative to the central panel 121 upon at least partial upward folding of the container retention tabs 141 at the respective lines of weakening 149.

In this regard, respective edges of the respective container retention tabs 141 can be exposed/freed upon separation thereof from the central panel 121 at the respective cuts 133, and can be positioned at least partially below the exterior surface 101 of the central panel 121. In some embodiments, the respective edges of the respective container retention tabs 141 at least partially defined by the respective cuts 133 can be positioned below an interior surface of the central panel 121.

Similarly, the aforementioned movement of the container retention tabs 169 can cause the respective deflection regions 181, 187, 183, 188 to at least partially separate from the central panel 121 at the respective portions of the respective cuts 133, 171, 177 such that the respective deflection regions 181, 187, 183, 188 can be free to move downwardly relative to the central panel 121 upon at least partial upward folding of the container retention tabs 169.

In this regard, respective edges of the respective container retention tabs 169 can be exposed/freed upon separation thereof from the central panel 121 at the respective cuts 133, 171, 177 and can be positioned at least partially below the exterior surface 101 of the central panel 121. In some embodiments, the respective edges of the respective container retention tabs 169 at least partially defined by the respective cuts 133, 171, 177 can be positioned below the interior surface of the central panel 121.

The movement of the respective deflection regions 153, 181, 183, 187, 188 of the respective container retention tabs 141, 169 out of the plane formed by the central panel 121, e.g., the exterior surface 101 thereof, can permit, for example, a closer engagement of the edges 143, 127 of the respective container retention tabs 141, 169 with the respective flange portions F of the respective containers C. In some embodiments, the movement of the respective container retention tabs 141, 169 out of the plane formed by the central panel 121 can provide the relief of stresses, e.g., stresses associated with the engagement of the carrier 105 with the respective containers C, transmitted across the central panel 121 and to the respective container retention tabs, for example, to avoid tearing or other unwanted strains. In this regard, the deflection regions 153, 181, 183, 187, 188 are for being positioned in nonplanar relation with the central panel 121 for such advantages.

Further, activation of the container retention features of the blank 103/carrier 105 can also cause one or more of the deflection tabs 197, 189, 201 to separate from the central panel 121 at a respective cut 199, 191, 203 so as to at least partially define a free edge thereof that can be positioned at least partially below the exterior surface 101 of the central panel 121. In some embodiments, the respective free edges of the respective deflection tabs 197, 189, 201 can be positioned below the interior surface of the central panel 121.

Such movement of the respective deflection tabs 197, 189, 201 out of the plane formed by the central panel 121 can provide the relief of stresses, e.g., stresses associated with the engagement of the carrier 105 with the respective containers C, transmitted across the central panel 121 and to the deflection tabs, for example, to avoid tearing or other unwanted strains. In this regard, the deflection tabs 197, 189, 201 are for being positioned in nonplanar relation with the central panel 121 for such advantages.

In some embodiments, one or more of the respective stress relief portions 209 of the blank 103/carrier 105 can at least partially deflect via movement relative to the remainder of the central panel 121 at one or both of the respective lines of weakening 205, 207. Such movement of the stress relief portion(s) 209 can, for example, facilitate distribution of stresses across the carrier 105, provide for a tighter engagement between the carrier 105 and respective containers C, etc.

Upon formation of the package 107, a user can engage the package 107/carrier 105 by pressing one or more of his or her fingers against the respective pairs of handle reinforcement flaps 211, 213 to cause at least partial separation thereof at the respective lines of weakening 219 and at least partial separation therefrom from the central panel 121 at the respective lines of weakening 217, 223 such that the handle reinforcement flaps 211, 213 can fold at least partially downwardly at the respective fold lines 215, 221 to expose handle openings 210. In this regard, the user can curl one or more of his or her fingers downwardly through the handle opening(s) 210 to contact an edge or underside of the central panel 121 to lift or otherwise move the package 107. In some embodiments, one or both of the handle reinforcement flaps 211, 213 can be positioned between a user's finger(s) and the central panel 121, for example, to provide cushioning, avoid pinching, add an additional ply of material to avoid tearing, etc.

In view of the foregoing, a blank 103 and carrier 105 formed therefrom are provided with container retention features in an arrangement that allows for a tight engagement about a respective container C, while providing a distribution of stresses associated therewith via the movement of the deflection regions 153, 181, 183, 187, 188 of the respective container retention tabs 141, 169 and movement of the deflection tabs 189, 197, 201 at least partially below the exterior surface 101 of the central panel 121.

It will be understood that one or more of the container retention features of the blank 103/carrier 105/package 107 can have a different configuration or arrangement without departing from the disclosure. It will be further understood that the blank 103/carrier 105 can have a different configuration without departing from the disclosure.

In general, the blank may be constructed from paperboard having a caliper so that it is heavier and more rigid than ordinary paper. The blank can also be constructed of other materials, such as cardboard, or any other material having properties suitable for enabling the carrier to function at least generally as described above. The blank can be coated with, for example, a clay coating. The clay coating may then be printed over with product, advertising, and other information or images. The blanks may then be coated with a varnish to protect information printed on the blanks. The blanks may also be coated with, for example, a moisture barrier layer, on either or both sides of the blanks. The blanks can also be laminated to or coated with one or more sheet-like materials at selected panels or panel sections.

As an example, a tear line can include: a slit that extends partially into the material along the desired line of weakness, and/or a series of spaced apart slits that extend partially into and/or completely through the material along the desired line of weakness, or various combinations of these features. As a more specific example, one type tear line is in the form of a series of spaced apart slits that extend completely through the material, with adjacent slits being spaced apart slightly so that a nick (e.g., a small somewhat bridging-like piece of the material) is defined between the adjacent slits for typically temporarily connecting the material across the tear line. The nicks are broken during tearing along the tear line. The nicks typically are a relatively small percentage of the tear line, and alternatively the nicks can be omitted from or torn in a tear line such that the tear line is a continuous cut line. That is, it is within the scope of the present disclosure for each of the tear lines to be replaced with a continuous slit, or the like. For example, a cut line can be a continuous slit or could be wider than a slit without departing from the present disclosure.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiments, a fold line can be any substantially linear, although not necessarily straight, form of weakening that facilitates folding therealong. More specifically, but not for the purpose of narrowing the scope of the present disclosure, fold lines include: a score line, such as lines formed with a blunt scoring knife, or the like, which creates a crushed or depressed portion in the material along the desired line of weakness; a cut that extends partially into a material along the desired line of weakness, and/or a series of cuts that extend partially into and/or completely through the material along the desired line of weakness; and various combinations of these features. In situations where cutting is used to create a fold line, typically the cutting will not be overly extensive in a manner that might cause a reasonable user to incorrectly consider the fold line to be a tear line.

The above embodiments may be described as having one or more panels adhered together by glue during erection of the carrier embodiments. The term “glue” is intended to encompass all manner of adhesives commonly used to secure carrier panels in place.

The foregoing description of the disclosure illustrates and describes various exemplary embodiments. Various additions, modifications, changes, etc., could be made to the exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. It is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Additionally, the disclosure shows and describes only selected embodiments of the disclosure, but the disclosure is capable of use in various other combinations, modifications, and environments and is capable of changes or modifications within the scope of the inventive concept as expressed herein, commensurate with the above teachings, and/or within the skill or knowledge of the relevant art. Furthermore, certain features and characteristics of each embodiment may be selectively interchanged and applied to other illustrated and non-illustrated embodiments of the disclosure.

Claims

1. A carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the carrier comprising: a central panel comprising a plurality of container retention openings for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers;a plurality of container retention tabs positioned extending into respective container retention openings of the plurality of container retention openings, the plurality of container retention tabs positioned for engaging a respective container of the plurality of containers, at least one container retention tab of the plurality of container retention tabs foldably connected to the central panel at a fold line; andat least one deflection tab positioned extending away from the at least one container retention tab of the plurality of container retention tabs, the fold line intersecting a respective at least one deflection tab.

2. The carrier of claim 1, wherein the at least one deflection tab is at least partially separable from the central panel at a curved cut such that the at least one deflection tab is at least partially separable from the central panel for being positioned in nonplanar relation with the central panel.

3. The carrier of claim 2, wherein the curved cut has a convex arrangement relative to the fold line.

4. The carrier of claim 3, wherein the at least one deflection tab interrupts the fold line.

5. The carrier of claim 4, wherein the at least one container retention tab defines a free edge interrupted by a recessed notch for facilitating reconfiguration of the at least one container retention tab when the plurality of container retention tabs engage a respective container of the plurality of containers.

6. The carrier of claim 5, wherein the recessed notch is aligned with the at least one deflection tab.

7. The carrier of claim 3, wherein the curved cut is a first cut, and a second cut at least partially defines a deflection region of the at least one container retention tab, the deflection region for being at least partially separated from the central panel for being positioned in nonplanar relation with the central panel.

8. The carrier of claim 7, wherein the second cut includes an oblique segment intersecting a curved segment.

9. The carrier of claim 8, wherein the second cut is spaced apart from the fold line.

10. The carrier of claim 3, wherein a plurality of stress relief regions are at least partially defined along the central panel between respective pairs of oblique lines of weakening intersecting a respective free edge of the central panel.

11. The carrier of claim 10, wherein at least one of the oblique lines of weakening intersects the first cut.

12. The carrier of claim 11, wherein the respective pairs of oblique lines of weakening are a respective first oblique line of weakening and a respective second oblique line of weakening, and the at least one container retention tab is at least partially bisected by a third oblique line of weakening so as to form a first portion and a second portion of the at least one container retention tab.

13. The carrier of claim 3, further comprising handle features for facilitating grasping of the carrier, the handle features comprising at least one handle opening at least partially defined in the central panel and at least one handle flap foldably connected to the central panel and positioned extending into the at least one handle opening.

14. A blank for forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the blank comprising: a central panel comprising a plurality of container retention openings for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers;a plurality of container retention tabs positioned extending into respective container retention openings of the plurality of container retention openings, the plurality of container retention tabs positioned for engaging a respective container of the plurality of containers when the carrier is formed from the blank, at least one container retention tab of the plurality of container retention tabs foldably connected to the central panel at a fold line; andat least one deflection tab positioned extending away from the at least one container retention tab of the plurality of container retention tabs, the fold line intersecting a respective at least one deflection tab.

15. The blank of claim 14, wherein the at least one deflection tab is at least partially separable from the central panel at a curved cut such that the at least one deflection tab is at least partially separable from the central panel for being positioned in nonplanar relation with the central panel.

16. The blank of claim 15, wherein the curved cut has a convex arrangement relative to the fold line.

17. The blank of claim 16, wherein the at least one deflection tab interrupts the fold line.

18. The blank of claim 17, wherein the at least one container retention tab defines a free edge interrupted by a recessed notch for facilitating reconfiguration of the at least one container retention tab when the plurality of container retention tabs engage a respective container of the plurality of containers.

19. The blank of claim 18, wherein the recessed notch is aligned with the at least one deflection tab.

20. The blank of claim 16, wherein the curved cut is a first cut, and a second cut at least partially defines a deflection region of the at least one container retention tab, the deflection region for being at least partially separated from the central panel for being positioned in nonplanar relation with the central panel.

21. The blank of claim 20, wherein the second cut includes an oblique segment intersecting a curved segment.

22. The blank of claim 21, wherein the second cut is spaced apart from the fold line.

23. The blank of claim 16, wherein a plurality of stress relief regions are at least partially defined along the central panel between respective pairs of oblique lines of weakening intersecting a respective free edge of the central panel.

24. The blank of claim 23, wherein at least one of the oblique lines of weakening intersects the first cut.

25. The blank of claim 24, wherein the respective pairs of oblique lines of weakening are a respective first oblique line of weakening and a respective second oblique line of weakening, and the at least one container retention tab is at least partially bisected by a third oblique line of weakening so as to form a first portion and a second portion of the at least one container retention tab.

26. The blank of claim 16, further comprising handle features for facilitating grasping of the carrier, the handle features comprising at least one handle opening at least partially defined in the central panel and at least one handle flap foldably connected to the central panel and positioned extending into the at least one handle opening.

27. A method of forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the method comprising: obtaining a blank, the blank comprising a central panel comprising a plurality of container retention openings, a plurality of container retention tabs positioned extending into respective container retention openings of the plurality of container retention openings, at least one container retention tab of the plurality of container retention tabs foldably connected to the central panel at a fold line, and at least one deflection tab positioned extending away from the at least one container retention tab of the plurality of container retention tabs, the fold line intersecting a respective at least one deflection tab; andpositioning the blank such that the plurality of container retention openings are arranged for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers and such that the plurality of container retention tabs are positioned for engaging a respective container of the plurality of containers.

28. The method of claim 27, wherein the at least one deflection tab is at least partially separable from the central panel at a curved cut such that the at least one deflection tab is at least partially separable from the central panel for being positioned in nonplanar relation with the central panel.

29. The method of claim 28, wherein the curved cut has a convex arrangement relative to the fold line.

30. The method of claim 29, wherein the at least one deflection tab interrupts the fold line.

31. The method of claim 30, wherein the at least one container retention tab defines a free edge interrupted by a recessed notch for facilitating reconfiguration of the at least one container retention tab when the plurality of container retention tabs engage a respective container of the plurality of containers.

32. The method of claim 31, wherein the recessed notch is aligned with the at least one deflection tab.

33. The method of claim 29, wherein the curved cut is a first cut, and a second cut at least partially defines a deflection region of the at least one container retention tab, the deflection region for being at least partially separated from the central panel for being positioned in nonplanar relation with the central panel.

34. The method of claim 33, wherein the second cut includes an oblique segment intersecting a curved segment.

35. The method of claim 34, wherein the second cut is spaced apart from the fold line.

36. The method of claim 29, wherein a plurality of stress relief regions are at least partially defined along the central panel between respective pairs of oblique lines of weakening intersecting a respective free edge of the central panel.

37. The method of claim 36, wherein at least one of the oblique lines of weakening intersects the first cut.

38. The method of claim 37, wherein the respective pairs of oblique lines of weakening are a respective first oblique line of weakening and a respective second oblique line of weakening, and the at least one container retention tab is at least partially bisected by a third oblique line of weakening so as to form a first portion and a second portion of the at least one container retention tab.

39. The method of claim 29, further comprising handle features for facilitating grasping of the carrier, the handle features comprising at least one handle opening at least partially defined in the central panel and at least one handle flap foldably connected to the central panel and positioned extending into the at least one handle opening.

40. A package, the package comprising: a plurality of containers; anda carrier holding the plurality of containers, the carrier comprising: a central panel comprising a plurality of container retention openings at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers;a plurality of container retention tabs positioned extending into respective container retention openings of the plurality of container retention openings, the plurality of container retention tabs positioned engaging a respective container of the plurality of containers, at least one container retention tab of the plurality of container retention tabs foldably connected to the central panel at a fold line; andat least one deflection tab positioned extending away from the at least one container retention tab of the plurality of container retention tabs, the fold line intersecting a respective at least one deflection tab.

41. The package of claim 40, wherein the at least one deflection tab is at least partially separated from the central panel at a curved cut such that the at least one deflection tab is at least partially separated from the central panel and positioned in nonplanar relation with the central panel.

42. The package of claim 41, wherein the curved cut has a convex arrangement relative to the fold line.

43. The package of claim 42, wherein the at least one deflection tab interrupts the fold line.

44. The package of claim 43, wherein the at least one container retention tab defines a free edge interrupted by a recessed notch facilitating reconfiguration of the at least one container retention tab engaged with a respective container of the plurality of containers.

45. The package of claim 44, wherein the recessed notch is aligned with the at least one deflection tab.

46. The package of claim 42, wherein the curved cut is a first cut, and a second cut at least partially defines a deflection region of the at least one container retention tab, the deflection region at least partially separated from the central panel and positioned in nonplanar relation with the central panel.

47. The package of claim 46, wherein the second cut includes an oblique segment intersecting a curved segment.

48. The package of claim 47, wherein the second cut is spaced apart from the fold line.

49. The package of claim 42, wherein a plurality of stress relief regions are at least partially defined along the central panel between respective pairs of oblique lines of weakening intersecting a respective free edge of the central panel.

50. The package of claim 49, wherein at least one of the oblique lines of weakening intersects the first cut.

51. The package of claim 50, wherein the respective pairs of oblique lines of weakening are a respective first oblique line of weakening and a respective second oblique line of weakening, and the at least one container retention tab is at least partially bisected by a third oblique line of weakening so as to form a first portion and a second portion of the at least one container retention tab.

52. The package of claim 42, further comprising handle features for facilitating grasping of the carrier, the handle features comprising at least one handle opening at least partially defined in the central panel and at least one handle flap foldably connected to the central panel and positioned extending into the at least one handle opening.