Carrier For Containers

Abstract

A carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the carrier includes a front portion, the front portion including a portion of at least one attachment panel for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers, a back portion, the back portion including a portion of the at least one attachment panel for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers, and a reinforcement portion extending from the front portion to the back portion for reinforcing the carrier.

Description

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

The disclosures of each of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/208,568, filed on Jun. 9, 2021, U.S. Design patent application Ser. No. 29/838,182, filed on May 11, 2022, U.S. patent application Ser. No. 17/835,127, filed on Jun. 8, 2022, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/532,527, filed on Aug. 14, 2023, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/537,328, filed on Sep. 8, 2023, are hereby incorporated by reference for all purposes as if presented herein in their entireties.

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 front portion, the front portion comprising a portion of at least one attachment panel for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers, a back portion, the back portion comprising a portion of the at least one attachment panel for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers, and a reinforcement portion extending from the front portion to the back portion for reinforcing the carrier.

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 portion of at least one attachment panel for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers for forming a front portion of the carrier formed from the blank, a portion of the attachment panel for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers for forming a back portion of the carrier formed from the blank, and a portion of the at least one attachment panel for extending from the front portion to the back portion of the carrier formed from the blank for reinforcing the carrier formed from the blank.

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 at least one attachment panel for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers, positioning a portion of the at least one attachment panel to form a front portion of the carrier, positioning a portion of the at least one attachment panel to form a back portion of the carrier, and positioning a portion of the at least one attachment panel to form a reinforcement portion of the carrier extending from the front portion of the carrier to the back portion of the carrier and reinforcing the carrier.

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 front portion, the front portion comprising a portion of at least one attachment panel at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers, a back portion, the back portion comprising a portion of the at least one attachment panel at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers, and a reinforcement portion extending from the front portion to the back portion for reinforcing the carrier.

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 package and carrier according to a first exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a formation of a package and carrier from the blank of FIG. 1 according to the exemplary embodiment.

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

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

FIG. 5 is a plan view of an outer surface of a blank for forming a package and carrier according to a second exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 5A is an enlarged view of a portion of the blank of FIG. 5.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a formation of a package and carrier from the blank of FIG. 5 according to the second exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of the package and carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 5 according to the second exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a plan view of an outer surface of a blank for forming a package and carrier according to a third exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 8A is an enlarged view of a portion of the blank of FIG. 8.

FIG. 9 is a perspective view of the package and carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 8 according to the third exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a plan view of an outer surface of a blank for forming a package and carrier according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 10A is an enlarged view of a portion of the blank of FIG. 10.

FIG. 10B is an enlarged view of another portion of the blank of FIG. 10.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a formation of a package and carrier from the blank of FIG. 10 according to the fourth exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of the package and carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 10 according to the fourth exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 13 is a plan view of an outer surface of a blank for forming a package and carrier according to a fifth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 13A is an enlarged view of a portion of the blank of FIG. 13.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the package and carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 13 according to the fifth exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a plan view of an outer surface of a blank for forming a package and carrier according to a sixth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 15A is an enlarged view of a portion of the blank of FIG. 15.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the package and carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 15 according to the sixth exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a plan view of an outer surface of a blank for forming a package and carrier according to a seventh exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of the package and carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 17 according to the seventh exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 19 is a plan view of an outer surface of a blank for forming a package and carrier according to an eighth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 19A is an enlarged view of a portion of the blank of FIG. 19.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of the package and carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 19 according to the eighth exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 21 is a plan view of an outer surface of a blank for forming a package and carrier according to a ninth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 22 is a plan view of an outer surface of a blank for forming a package and carrier according to a tenth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

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

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

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.

Carriers 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., aluminum cans) at least partially disposed within the carrier embodiments. In this specification, the terms “lower,” “bottom,” “upper,” “top,” “front,” and “back” indicate orientations determined in relation to fully erected carriers.

As described herein, carriers may be formed by multiple overlapping panels, end flaps, and/or other portions of blanks. Such panels, end flaps, and/or other portions of the blank can be designated in relative terms to one another, e.g., “first”, “second”, “third”, etc., in sequential or non-sequential reference, without departing from the disclosure.

FIG. 1 shows a plan view of an exterior side 101 of a blank 103 used to form a carrier 105 (FIG. 3) in accordance with a first exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. As shown in FIG. 3, the carrier 105 is sized to contain or support six containers, with three containers CA1, CA2, CA3 being attached to a front portion 106 of the carrier 105 and three containers CB1, CB2, CB3 being attached to a back portion 108 of the carrier 105. In the illustrated embodiment, the containers CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, CB3 can be beverage cans, or could be any other suitable type and size of container without departing from the disclosure. In some embodiments, the containers can have an upper rim or other top portion corresponding to a diameter of 53 mm, 58 mm, or 56 mm, or the like.

The carrier 105 can be sized and shaped to hold more or less than six containers. In one embodiment, the front portion 106 and the back portion 108 of the carrier 105 each have three containers, and in other embodiments, the front portion 106 and the back portion 108 of the carrier 105 can carry more or less than three containers without departing from the disclosure. The carrier 105 can be provided together with one or more containers as a package 110 (FIG. 3).

As shown in FIG. 1, the blank 103 has a longitudinal axis L1 and a lateral axis L2. The blank 103 has a front portion 107 for forming the front portion 106 of the carrier 105, a back portion 109 for forming the back portion 108 of the carrier 105, and a central or reinforcement portion 111 for forming a central or reinforcement portion 113 of the carrier 105 extending from the front portion 106 of the carrier 105 to the back portion 108 of the carrier 105 for reinforcing the carrier 105.

In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcement portion 111 of the blank 103 includes a reinforcement panel 115 interrupted by a laterally-spaced pair of handle apertures 130. The reinforcement panel 115 can have a width D along the longitudinal axis L1 defined between a pair of fold lines 133a, 133b to which the front portion 107 of the blank 103 and the back portion 109 of the blank 103 are foldably connected to the reinforcement portion 111, respectively.

While the reinforcement panel 115 is described in the illustrated embodiment as a single interrupted panel, it will be understood that such portion of the blank 103/carrier 105 can be formed from multiple cooperating panels/flaps/structures. The reinforcement portion 111 of the blank 103/reinforcement portion 113 of the carrier 105 can have a different configuration without departing from the disclosure. Furthermore, it will be understood that the reinforcement portion 111 of the blank 103/reinforcement portion 113 of the carrier 105 can be considered a central portion of the blank 103/carrier 105 and/or a portion of one of the front portion 107 of the blank 103/front portion 106 of the carrier 105 and the back portion 109 of the blank 103/back portion 108 of the carrier 105.

With continued reference to FIG. 1, the front portion 107 of the blank 103 can include a front container retention panel or front attachment panel 131a foldably connected to the reinforcement panel 115 at respective portions of a lateral fold line 133a that is interrupted by the handle apertures 130. As shown, handle reinforcement flaps 132 (broadly, “lower handle reinforcement flaps”) can be foldably connected to the reinforcement panel 115 at respective longitudinal fold lines 134, and can be positioned to extend into the respective handle apertures 130.

The front attachment panel 131a can also include a container retention portion 135a that is at least partially defined between a pair of longitudinally-spaced lateral fold lines 137a, 139a that are each interrupted by a respective pair of longitudinally-spaced cuts 141a that can each include one or more curved and/or angled portions. As shown, the longitudinally-spaced cuts 141a define container retention tabs 148a that extend outwardly from the container retention portion 135a. As also shown, respective oblique cuts can extend outwardly from one or more cuts 141a that interrupt the fold line 139a. Furthermore, longitudinal cuts can extend outwardly from respective central portions of the cuts 141a.

As shown, an interior marginal portion 136a of the attachment panel 131a is defined between the fold lines 137a, 133a, and an exterior marginal portion 138a of the attachment panel 131a is defined between the fold line 139a and a lateral fold line 157a adjacent the attachment panel 131a.

A bevel or front side panel 155a, as shown, is foldably connected to the front attachment panel 131a at the lateral fold line 157a, and a front top panel 159 is foldably connected to the front side panel 155a at a lateral fold line 161a. The lateral fold line 157a can be interrupted by a plurality of the cuts 141a so as to define container retention tabs 148a protruding from the top panel 159, as described further herein.

The top panel 159, as shown, includes a pair of laterally-spaced handle openings 163 (broadly, “upper handle openings”) that are generally aligned with the respective handle apertures 130 (broadly, “lower handle openings”). A respective handle reinforcement flap 165 (broadly, “upper handle reinforcement flap”) can be foldably connected to the top panel 159 at respective longitudinal fold lines 167 and positioned to extend into the respective handle openings 163. Each handle reinforcement flap 165, as shown, can include a base portion 169 foldably connected to the top panel 159 at the respective fold lines 167, and a respective distal portion 171 foldably connected to the respective base portion 169 at a respective longitudinal fold line 173 and including a pair of oblique lines of weakening 175 intersecting the respective longitudinal fold lines 173.

In the illustrated embodiment, the back portion 109 of the blank 103 includes a back container retention panel or back attachment panel 131b and a back side panel 155b having associated features that are generally a mirror-image of the corresponding portions of the front portion 107 of the blank 103. Corresponding components (e.g., panels, flaps, fold lines, cuts, etc.) have been designated by corresponding reference numbers that differ by the “a” or “b” suffix, with the “a” components corresponding to the front portion 107 of the blank 103 and the “b” components corresponding to the back portion 109 of the blank 103.

The back portion 109 of the blank 103 also includes a second top panel or attachment flap 177 foldably connected to the back side panel 155b at a lateral fold line 161b.

Any of the panels, flaps, fold lines, cuts, or other features could be otherwise shaped, arranged, and/or omitted from the blank 103 without departing from the disclosure. The blank 103 could be sized and/or shaped to accommodate more or less than six containers without departing from this disclosure.

As shown in FIG. 2, the blank 103 can be inverted such that the exterior surface 101 of the blank 103 can be placed atop the containers CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, CB3 such that the container retention portion 135a of the front attachment panel 131a overlies the containers CA1, CA2, CA3 and such that the container retention portion 135b of the back attachment panel 131b overlies the containers CB1, CB2, CB3. Further downward positioning of the attachment panels 131a, 131b over the plurality of containers CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, CB3 can activate the respective container retention portions 135a, 135b to engage respective containers.

For example, as the front attachment panel 131a is lowered or urged downwardly onto the containers CA1, CA2, CA3 the container retention portion 135a can at least partially separate from the remainder of the front attachment panel 131a at the cuts 141a. In such an arrangement, upper or top portions T of the respective containers CA1, CA2, CA3 can extend at least partially through respective openings formed by the respective cuts 141a such that the container retention tabs 148a can sit within recessed portions of the containers CA1, CA2, CA3, e.g., recessed tops of the containers CA1, CA2, CA3 below rolled upper rims thereof.

Such reconfiguration of the corresponding portions of the back attachment panel 131b can occur as the back attachment panel 131b is lowed or urged downwardly onto the containers CB1, CB2, CB3.

The marginal portions 136a, 138a of the attachment panel 131a can fold at least partially downwardly at the respective fold lines 137a, 139a in such a configuration, and, similarly, the marginal portions 136b, 138b of the attachment panel 131b can fold at least partially downwardly at the respective fold lines 137b, 139b. In this regard, the marginal portions 136a, 138a can be obliquely arranged relative to the attachment portion 135a of the attachment panel 131a and the marginal portions 136b, 138b can be obliquely arranged relative to the attachment portion 135b of the attachment panel 131b. Such movement can cause reconfiguration of the outer marginal portion 138a of the front attachment panel 131a to reconfigure at the respective cuts 143a, 145a, 146a to engage a rolled rim or other top structure of the respective containers CA1, CA2, CA3.

The back attachment panel 131b and corresponding container retention portion 135b can engage the containers CB1, CB2, CB3 in a manner similar to that described above with respect to the engagement of the front attachment panel 131a and container retention portion 135a with respect to the containers CA1, CA2, CA3.

Still referring to FIG. 2, the front side panel 155a can be folded upwardly at the fold line 157a, for example, to be at an oblique arrangement relative to the attachment portion 135a of the attachment panel 131a, and the top panel 159 (broadly, “first top panel”) can be folded at the fold line 161a into at least partial face-to-face contact with at least a portion of the attachment panels 131a, 131b. Such movement of the top panel 159 can cause the container retention tabs 148a to separate from the front side panel 155a at the respective cuts 141a, and can at least partially overlie the container retention tabs 148a associated with the attachment panel 131a. In this regard, the rolled rim or other top structure of the respective containers CA1, CA2, CA3 can be at least partially received through the cuts 141a along the fold line 161a such that the container retention tabs 148a extending from the top panel 159 can also sit within recessed upper portions of the containers CA1, CA2, CA3.

Similarly, the back side panel 155b can be folded upwardly at the fold line 157b into an oblique arrangement with the attachment portion 135b of the attachment panel 131b, and the attachment flap 177 can be folded at the fold line 161b into at least partial face-to-face contact with the top panel 159 and/or the attachment panel 131b. Such movement of the attachment flap 177 can cause engagement with the containers CB1, CB2, CB3 in a manner similar to that described above with regard to the engagement of the top panel 159 with the containers CA1, CA2, CA3.

This positioning of the top panel 159 can align the handle openings 163 with the respective handle apertures 130 therebelow to facilitate engagement with the carrier 105/package 110 by a customer or other user. The aforementioned arrangement of the carrier 105 can be maintained with one or more applications of an adhesive such as glue, or, in embodiments, the carrier 105 can be devoid of glue.

Accordingly, in the formed carrier 105 as shown in FIGS. 3 and 4, containers can be engaged by the respective attachment panels 131a, 131b and can extend below the respective container retention portions 135a, 135b in the assembled carrier 105/package 110. In such an arrangement, the containers CA1, CA2, CA3 extend below the container retention portion 135a in the front portion 106 of the carrier 105, and the containers CB1, CB2, CB3 extend below the container retention portion 135b in the back portion 108 of the carrier 105, with the top panel 159 and the attachment flap 177 overlying and in at least partial face-to-face contact with respective portions of the respective container retention portions 135a, 135b.

Furthermore, the positioning of the reinforcement panel 115 extending from the front portion 106 of the carrier 105 to the back portion 108 of the carrier 105 provides reinforcement to the carrier 105 in the course of movement or other loading, e.g., transportation, storage, carrying, incidental to use, etc. In this regard, the arrangement of reinforcement panel 115 spaced below the top panels 159, 177/attachment portions 135a, 135b and in generally parallel relation thereto provides the carrier 105 with an increased capacity to minimize, inhibit, avoid, prevent, and/or otherwise resist bending, bowing, flexing, buckling, curling, deflection, and/or other deformation.

In one embodiment, the arrangement of the reinforcement panel 115 extending from the obliquely-arranged interior marginal portion 136a of the front portion 106 of the carrier 105 to the obliquely-arranged interior marginal portion 136b of the back portion 108 of the carrier 105 can provide an arch-like construction that tends to resolve applied forces into compressive stresses outwardly away from the reinforcement panel 115, e.g., so as to favorably distribute stresses along the carrier 105.

Still referring to FIGS. 3 and 4, the carrier 105 can be grasped by inserting a user's fingers through the handle openings 163 and into the handle apertures 130 below to facilitate contact by the user's fingers of the underside of one or more of the reinforcement panel 115, the front attachment panel 131a, and the back attachment panel 131b. Such engagement of the carrier 105 by the user can cause one or both of the handle reinforcement flaps 165 to fold downwardly at the respective longitudinal fold lines 167, which in turn, can cause further downward folding of the respective handle reinforcement flaps 132 at the respective fold lines 134 to provide one or more additional plies of material between the user's fingers and the underside of the carrier 105, e.g., for comfort, to avoid pinching, etc. and/or to provide a reinforced structure for engagement by the user that is resistant to tearing or other deformation due to carrying stresses. In addition, the lines of weakening 175 in the handle reinforcement flaps 165 can permit at least partial reconfiguration thereof, e.g., to at least partially fold, flex, curl, etc. about a user's fingers to provide additional cushioning and support. In this regard, the handle apertures 130, the handle reinforcement flaps 132, the handle openings 163, and the handle reinforcement flaps 165, in combinations and subcombinations, can form handle features of the carrier 105.

The package 110/carrier 105 described above has a compact structure that can, for example, provide materials savings and waste reduction. Additionally, the positioning of the reinforcement panel 115 between the front portion 106 and the back portion 108 of the carrier 105 results in a robust structure for holding and carrying the containers CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, CB3. Further, the exposure of one or more portions of the containers CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, CB3 on exterior portions of the carrier 105/package 110 provides a consumer with a clear view of labeling or surface graphics associated with the containers CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, CB3 as well as providing convenient access to remove one or more of the containers CA1, CA2, CA3, CB1, CB2, CB3 from the carrier 105/package 110, for example, by withdrawing a respective container through the respective cuts 141a, 141b to disengage the container from the respective panel 131a, 131b, 159, 177.

FIG. 5 is a plan view of an exterior surface 201 of a blank 203 for forming a carrier 205 (FIG. 7) according to a second exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 5A is an enlarged view of a portion of the blank 203. The blank 203 and carrier 205 formed therefrom can have one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the blank 103 and carrier 105 formed therefrom, and like or similar features are designated with like or similar reference numerals.

As described further herein, the carrier 205 can be configured for holding/supporting/retaining/receiving a plurality of containers. The carrier 205 can be provided with one or more containers to form a package 210 (FIG. 7).

As shown in FIG. 7, the carrier 205 is sized to contain or support six containers, with three containers B being attached to a front portion 206 of the carrier 205 and three containers B being attached to a back portion 208 of the carrier 205. The carrier 205 can be sized and shaped to hold more or less than six containers. In one embodiment, the front portion 206 and the back portion 208 of the carrier 205 each have three containers, and in other embodiments, the front portion 206 and the back portion 208 of the carrier 205 can carry more or less than three containers without departing from the disclosure.

In the illustrated embodiment, the containers B can be bottles, e.g., plastic bottles formed of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or another polymer, and having upper portions that include an at least partially tapered neck portion N intersecting a flange F that at least partially supports a cap CP. In other embodiments, the containers B could be beverage cans or another suitable type and size of container.

With continued reference to FIG. 5 and the enlarged view of FIG. 5A, the blank 203 has a longitudinal axis L1 and a lateral axis L2. The blank 203 has a front portion 207 for forming the front portion 206 of the carrier 205, a back portion 209 for forming the back portion 208 of the carrier 205, and a central or reinforcement portion 211 for forming a central or reinforcement portion 213 of the carrier 205 extending from the front portion 206 of the carrier 205 to the back portion 208 of the carrier 205 for reinforcing the carrier 205.

The blank 203 and carrier 205 formed therefrom can include a plurality of panels and a plurality of end flaps foldably connected to a respective panel of the plurality of panels.

The front portion 207 of the blank 203 and the carrier 205 formed therefrom can include a front portion 221a of an attachment panel 221 (broadly, “central attachment panel”), a front panel 223a foldably connected to the attachment panel 221 at a lateral fold line 225a, a front top panel 227a foldably connected to the front panel 223a at a lateral fold line 229a, and a front reinforcement panel 231a foldably connected to the top panel 227a at a lateral fold line 233a.

As shown, the front reinforcement panel 231a can include an inner portion 235a foldably connected to the top panel 227a at the lateral fold line 233a, a central or reinforcement portion 237a foldably connected to the inner portion 235a at a lateral fold line 239a, and an attachment portion 241a foldably connected to the central portion 237a at a lateral fold line 243a.

In some embodiments, the front panel 223a can be an outer front panel, the inner portion 235a of the reinforcement panel 231a can be an inner front panel, the reinforcement portion 237a of the reinforcement panel 231a can be a reinforcement panel, and the attachment portion 241a of the reinforcement panel 231a can be a reinforcement flap of the blank/carrier.

The front portion of the blank 203 and the carrier 205 formed therefrom can also include a first gusset end flap 245a and a second gusset end flap 245a foldably connected to respective portions of the attachment panel 221 and the front panel 223a at opposite longitudinal ends of the blank 203/carrier 205. Each gusset end flap 245a, as shown, can include an inner portion 247a foldably connected to a respective portion of the attachment panel 221 at a longitudinal fold line 249a, a central portion 251a foldably connected to the inner portion 247a at an oblique fold line 253a, and an outer portion 255a foldably connected to the front panel 223a at an oblique fold line 257a and to the central portion 251a at an oblique fold line 259a.

The blank 203 and carrier 205 formed therefrom can also include a plurality of container retention features for at least partially receiving a respective container B of a plurality of containers B. In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment panel 221 can include a plurality of container retention openings 261, 263. As shown, the container retention openings 261 can be positioned adjacent longitudinal ends of the blank 203/carrier 205 and the container retention openings 263 can be positioned therebetween, though a different arrangement of container openings can be provided without departing from the disclosure.

Each container retention opening 261, as shown, can have a generally circular configuration, and a plurality of container retention tabs 265, 267, 269 can be foldably connected to the attachment panel 221 at respective fold lines and positioned extending into the respective container retention opening 261.

As shown, a pair of laterally-opposed container retention tabs 265 can be foldably connected to the attachment panel 221 at a respective portion of the lateral fold line 225a and a lateral fold line 271, and can be separated at a lateral cut 273. The container retention tabs 267 can be foldably connected to the attachment panel 221 at a respective portion of the respective fold lines 249a and separated from the container retention tabs 265 at a lateral cut 274. Similarly, the container retention tabs 269 can be foldably connected to the attachment panel 221 at respective longitudinal fold lines 275, and can be separated from the container retention tabs 265 at a cut 277.

With continued reference to FIGS. 5 and 5A, a plurality of container retention tabs 279 can be foldably connected to the attachment panel 221 at respective oblique fold lines 281 and positioned at least partially extending into the respective container retention openings 263. Abutting container retention tabs 279 can be separable from one another at a respective plurality of cuts 283. In some embodiments, one or more of the container retention tabs 279 can include a line of weakening at least partially formed along an interior region thereof, for example, to facilitate relative movement of portions thereof.

The container retention features can also include a container retention opening 285a at least partially interrupting the fold line 233a for at least partially receiving a respective portion of a container B of the plurality of containers B.

The blank 203 and carrier 205 formed therefrom can further include handle features for forming a handle 213 of the carrier 205. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle features can include a pair of laterally spaced apart handle openings 287 defined in a reinforcement portion 221c of the attachment panel 221 between the front portion 221a and a back portion 221b of the attachment panel 221.

In addition, a pair of laterally spaced apart handle openings 289a can be defined in the central portion 237a of the front reinforcement panel 231a, and a pair of handle reinforcement flaps 291a can be foldably connected to the front reinforcement panel 231 at respective longitudinal fold lines 293a and positioned extending into the respective handle openings 289a.

In the illustrated embodiment, the back portion 209 of the blank 203 can include a back portion 221b of the attachment panel 221, a back panel 223b, a back top panel 227b, a back reinforcement panel 231b, and gusset end flaps 245b having associated features that are generally a mirror-image of the corresponding portions of the front portion 207 of the blank 203. Corresponding components (e.g., panels, flaps, fold lines, cuts, etc.) have been designated by corresponding reference numbers that differ by the “a” or “b” suffix, with the “a” components corresponding to the front portion 207 of the blank 203 and the “b” components corresponding to the back portion 209 of the blank 203.

In some embodiments, the back panel 223b can be an outer back panel, the inner portion 235b of the reinforcement panel 231b can be an inner back panel, the reinforcement portion 237b of the reinforcement panel 231b can be a reinforcement panel, and the attachment portion 241b of the reinforcement panel 231b can be a reinforcement flap of the blank/carrier.

Any of the panels, flaps, fold lines, cuts, or other features could be otherwise shaped, arranged, and/or omitted from the blank 203 without departing from the disclosure. The blank 203 could be sized and/or shaped to accommodate more or less than six containers without departing from this disclosure.

As shown in FIG. 6, the blank 203 can be inverted such that the exterior surface 201 of the blank 203 can be placed atop the containers B such that the container retention openings 261, 263 of the attachment panel 221 overlie the containers B. Further downward positioning of the attachment panel 221 over the plurality of containers B can activate one or more container retention features to engage respective containers B.

For example, as the attachment panel 221 is lowered or urged downwardly onto the containers B, the respective cap CP and flange F, and, in some embodiments, a portion of the respective neck N, can be at least partially received through the respective container retention openings 261, 263. Such relative movement of the attachment panel 221 and the containers B can cause the respective container retention tabs 265, 267, 269 to separate from one another at the respective cuts 273, 274, 277 and to fold at least partially upwardly at the respective fold lines 225a, 271, 249a, 275 toward the respective cap CP and/or flange F.

Similarly, the respective container retention tabs 279 can separate from one another at the respective cuts 283 and can fold at least partially upwardly at the respective fold lines 281 toward the respective cap CP and/or flange F of a respective container B being at least partially received through the respective container retention opening 263.

In such an arrangement, the respective container retention tabs 265, 267, 269, 279 can be positioned extending upwardly from the attachment panel 221 to a portion of the respective container B. In some embodiments, the respective container retention tabs 265, 267, 269, 279 can contact an underside of a respective flange F of a respective container B in a bracing arrangement.

With continued reference to FIG. 6, the gusset end flaps 245a, 245b can be folded upwardly at the respective fold lines 249a, 257a, 249b, 257b into an at least partially upright arrangement relative to the attachment panel 221. In this regard, the gusset end flaps 245a can be positioned between the front top panel 227a and the front portion 221a of the attachment panel 221.

Simultaneously or thereafter, the front panel 223a and the back panel 223b can be folded upwardly relative to the attachment panel 221 at the respective fold lines 225a, 225b. Such movement of the panel 223a can cause the respective outer portions 255a of the respective gusset end flaps 245a to further fold at the respective fold lines 257a into overlapping and/or at least partial face-to-face contact with respective portions of the front panel 223a. The respective central portion 251a can fold at the respective fold lines 259a, 253a to extend obliquely from the respective outer portion 255a to the respective inner portion 247a.

Similarly, the respective outer portions 255b of the respective gusset end flaps 245b can be caused to further fold at the respective fold lines 257b into overlapping and/or at least partial face-to-face contact with respective portions of the back panel 223b. The respective central portion 251b can fold at the respective fold lines 259b, 253b to extend obliquely from the respective outer portion 255b to the respective inner portion 247b. In this regard, the gusset end flaps 245b can be positioned between the back top panel 227b and the back portion 221b of the attachment panel 221.

Simultaneously or thereafter, the top panel 227a can be folded at the fold line 229a into generally parallel and spaced relation with the attachment panel 221 so as to overlie the caps CP of respective containers B, and the reinforcement panel 231a can be folded at the fold line 233a toward the attachment panel 221.

Further movement of the reinforcement panel 231a can include positioning of the inner portion 235a extending downwardly from the top panel 227a, at least partial folding of the central portion 237a at the fold line 239a to lie in overlapping and generally parallel relation with the attachment panel 221, and at least partial folding of the outer portion 241a at the fold line 243a to extend partially upwardly relative to the central portion 231a.

Similarly, the top panel 227b can be folded at the fold line 229b into generally parallel and spaced relation with the attachment panel 221 so as to overlie the caps CP of respective containers B, and the reinforcement panel 231b can be folded at the fold line 233b toward the attachment panel 221.

Further movement of the reinforcement panel 231b can include positioning of the inner portion 235b extending downwardly from the top panel 227b, at least partial folding of the central portion 237b at the fold line 239b to lie in overlapping and generally parallel relation with the attachment panel 221 and/or the central portion 237a of the attachment panel 231a, and at least partial folding of the outer portion 241b at the fold line 243b to extend partially upwardly and obliquely relative to the central portion 231b. The inner portions 235a, 235b and outer portions 241a, 241b are thus positioned extending generally upwardly and obliquely away from the respective central portions 237a, 237b.

In some embodiments, the reinforcement panel 231b can be positioned with the central portion 237b thereof in at least partial face-to-face contact with the attachment panel 221 and with the reinforcement panel 231a in at least partial face-to-face contact and overlying the reinforcement panel 231b. In this regard, the outer portion 241a of the reinforcement panel 231a can be positioned overlying at least a portion of the inner portion 235b of the reinforcement panel 231b.

Such arrangement of the reinforcement panels 231a, 231b can provide the panels 231a, 231b in an at least partially enclosing arrangement around the caps CP, flanges F, and upper portions of the respective necks N of respective containers B.

Such arrangement of the reinforcement panels 231a, 231b can further position the respective container retention openings 285a, 285b to receive a respective portion of a respective container B therethrough, e.g., a cap CP and flange F thereof.

As shown in FIG. 7, the formed carrier 205 and package 210 including the containers B provides the front portion 206 and back portion 208 thereof, with the reinforcement portion 213 formed by the respective portion of the attachment panel 221 extending from the front portion 206 to the back portion 208 between respective containers B. Such an arrangement provides reinforcement to the carrier 205 in the course of movement or other loading, e.g., transportation, storage, carrying, incidental to use, etc. In this regard, the arrangement of reinforcement portion 221c of the attachment panel 221 provides the carrier 205 with an increased capacity to minimize, inhibit, avoid, prevent, and/or otherwise resist bending, bowing, flexing, buckling, curling, deflection, and/or other deformation.

The carrier 205 can be grasped by inserting a user's fingers through the overlapped and aligned handle openings 289a, 289b, 287. Such engagement of the carrier 205 by the user can cause one or more of the handle reinforcement flaps 291a, 291b to fold downwardly at the respective longitudinal fold lines 293a, 293b, to provide one or more additional plies of material between the user's fingers and the underside of the carrier 205, e.g., for comfort, to avoid pinching, etc. and/or to provide a reinforced structure for engagement by the user that is resistant to tearing or other deformation due to carrying stresses. In this regard, the handle openings 287, 289a, 289b and handle reinforcement flaps 291a, 291b and associated features can form handle features of the carrier 205.

The package 210/carrier 205 described above has a compact structure that can, for example, provide materials savings and waste reduction. Additionally, the positioning of the reinforcement portion 221c of the attachment panel 221/reinforcement portion 213 between the front portion 206 and the back portion 208 of the carrier 205 results in a robust structure for holding and carrying the containers B. Further, the exposure of one or more portions of the containers B on exterior portions of the carrier 205/package 210 provides a consumer with a clear view of labeling or surface graphics associated with the containers B as well as providing convenient access to remove one or more of the containers B from the carrier 205/package 210. Such an arrangement provides advantages similar to those described above with respect to the carrier 105/package 110 described above.

Turning to FIGS. 8 and 8A, an exterior surface 301 of a blank 303 for forming carrier 305

(FIG. 9) according to a third exemplary embodiment of the disclosure is illustrated. The blank 303 and carrier 305 formed therefrom can have one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the blanks 103, 203 and carriers 105, 205 formed therefrom, and like or similar features are designated with like or similar reference numerals. The carrier 305 can be provided with one or more containers B as a package 310.

As shown, the blank 303 can have the longitudinal axis L1, the lateral axis L2, a front portion 307 for forming a front portion 306 of the carrier 305, a back portion 309 for forming a back portion 308 of the carrier 305, and a reinforcement portion 311 extending from the front portion 307 to the back portion 309 for forming a reinforcement portion 313 of the carrier 305 extending from the front portion 306 of the carrier 305 to the back portion 308 of the carrier 305 for reinforcing the carrier 305. The blank 303 and carrier 305 formed therefrom can include the panels 221, 223a, 223b, 227a, 227b, 231a, 231b, as shown.

In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment panel 221 defines the container retention openings 261, 263. A plurality of container retention tabs 365, 367 can be foldably connected to the attachment panel 221 and positioned extending into the respective container retention opening 261. As shown, a pair of laterally-opposed container retention tabs 365 can be foldably connected to the attachment panel 221 at a respective portion of the lateral fold line 225a and a lateral fold line 371. The container retention tabs 367 can be foldably connected to the attachment panel 221 at respective longitudinal fold lines 375, and can be separated from the container retention tabs 365 at a pair of oblique cuts 377.

A similar arrangement of container retention tabs 365, 367 can be foldably connected to the attachment panel 221 and positioned extending into the respective container retention openings 263. In addition, a respective container retention tab 379 can be foldably connected to the attachment panel 221 at a respective longitudinal fold line 381, and can be separable from the respective container retention tabs 365 at a respective pair of oblique cuts 387 and from the container retention tabs 367 at a longitudinal cut 389.

As also shown, a plurality of laterally spaced container retention openings 285 are positioned in each of the reinforcement panels 231a, 231b, each corresponding to a respective container retention opening 261, 263 for at least partially receiving an associated container B when the carrier 305 is formed from the blank 303.

With continued reference to FIG. 8 and the enlarged view of FIG. 8A, the blank 303 and carrier 305 can be devoid of the gusset end flaps 245a, 245b, but gusset end flaps 345a can be foldably connected to opposite edges of the front top panel 227a at respective oblique fold lines 347a, and can be for cooperating with respective gusset sections 349a of the interior portion 235a of the reinforcement panel 231a at least partially defined by respective oblique fold lines 351a. The respective gusset end flaps 345a can be foldably connected to the respective gusset sections 349a at a respective portion of the fold line 233a.

Similarly, gusset end flaps 345b can be foldably connected to opposite edges of the back top panel 227b at respective oblique fold lines 347b, and can be for cooperating with respective gusset sections 349b of the interior portion 235b of the reinforcement panel 231b at least partially defined by respective oblique fold lines 351b. The respective gusset end flaps 345b can be foldably connected to the respective gusset sections 349b at a respective portion of the fold line 233b.

In some embodiments, one or more of the gusset sections 349a, 349b can be considered end flaps of the plurality of end flaps of the blank 303 and carrier 305 formed therefrom.

In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 303 and carrier 305 formed therefrom can have a plurality of end flaps foldably connected to a respective panel of the plurality of panels thereof. In addition to the gusset end flaps 345a, 345b, the plurality of end flaps can include a pair of attachment panel end flaps 323 foldably connected to opposite edges of the attachment panel 221 at respective longitudinal fold lines 325. As shown, each attachment panel end flap 323 can include a base portion 327 and a pair of tab portions 329 extending therefrom so as to interrupt the respective fold line 325.

The tab portions 329 of the attachment panel end flaps 323 can be positioned extending into the respective container retention openings 261, e.g., so as to interrupt the generally circular edge thereof, and can be separable from the container retention tabs 365 at a pair of oblique cuts 331 and can be separable from the container retention tabs 367 at a longitudinal cut 333.

The plurality of end flaps of the blank 303 and carrier 305 formed therefrom can also include a pair of reinforcement panel end flaps 335 foldably connected to opposite edges of the reinforcement panel 231a at respective longitudinal fold lines 337.

Handle features of the blank 303 and carrier 305 formed therefrom can include the handle openings 287, 289a, 289b, and handle reinforcement flaps 291a, 291b. However, an additional handle reinforcement flap 391a, 391b can be foldably connected to the respective reinforcement panel 231a, 231b at a respective longitudinal fold lines 393a, 393b and positioned extending into the respective handle opening 291a, 291b.

Turning to FIG. 9, formation of the carrier 305 from the blank 303 according to one exemplary embodiment will be described.

The blank 303 can be inverted such that the exterior surface 301 of the blank 303 can be placed atop the containers B such that the container retention openings 261, 263 of the attachment panel 221 overlie the containers B. Further downward positioning of the attachment panel 221 over the plurality of containers B can activate one or more container retention features to engage respective containers B.

For example, as the attachment panel 221 is lowered or urged downwardly onto the containers B, the respective cap CP and flange F, and, in some embodiments, a portion of the respective neck N, can be at least partially received through the respective container retention openings 261, 263. Such relative movement of the attachment panel 221 and the containers B can cause the respective container retention tabs 365, 367, 379 to separate from one another at the respective cuts 377, 387, 389 and to fold at least partially upwardly at the respective fold lines 225a, 371, 375, 381 toward the respective cap CP and/or flange F. In addition, the tab portions 329 of the attachment panel end flaps 323 can separate from the adjacent end flaps 365, 367 at the respective cuts 331, 333 and bend/flex upwardly toward the respective cap CP and/or flange F.

In such an arrangement, the respective container retention tabs 365, 367, 379 and tab portions 329 can be positioned extending upwardly from the attachment panel 221 to a portion of the respective container B. In some embodiments, the respective container retention tabs 365, 367, 379 and tab portions 329 can contact an underside of a respective flange F of a respective container B in a bracing arrangement.

With continued reference to FIG. 9, the attachment panel end flaps 323 can be folded downwardly at the respective fold lines 325 so as to extend at least partially downwardly away from the attachment panel 221.

The panels, 223a, 223b, 227a, 227b, 231a, 231b can be folded in a manner similar to that described above with respect to the blank 203 and carrier 205, e.g., at the respective fold lines 225a, 225b, 229a, 229b, 233a, 233b such that the panels 223a, 227a, 231a extend at least partially around upper portions of the respective containers B and such that the panels 223b, 227b, 231b extend at least partially around upper portions of the respective containers B.

Upon such movement of the panels of the blank 303/carrier 305, the respective gusset end flaps 345a can at least partially fold relative to the panel 227a at the respective fold line 347a, and the respective gusset portions 349a of the panel 231a can fold relative to the interior portion 235a thereof at the respective fold lines 351a and relative to the respective gusset end flaps 345a at the respective portion of the fold line 233a so as to extend from the interior portion 235a of the panel 231a to the respective gusset end flap 345a. In some embodiments, one or both of the gusset portions 349a can be positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the respective gusset end flap 345a and/or the interior portion 235a of the panel 231a. In this regard, the gusset end flaps 345a and gusset portions 349a can be positioned between the front top panel 227a and the front portion 221a of the attachment panel 221.

Similarly, the respective gusset end flaps 345b can at least partially fold relative to the panel 227b at the respective fold line 347b, and the respective gusset portions 349b of the panel 231b can fold relative to the interior portion 235b thereof at the respective fold lines 351b and relative to the respective gusset end flaps 345b at the respective portion of the fold line 233b so as to extend from the interior portion 235b of the panel 231b to the respective gusset end flap 345b. In some embodiments, one or both of the gusset portions 349b can be positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the respective gusset end flap 345b and/or the interior portion 235b of the panel 231b. In this regard, the gusset end flaps 345b and gusset portions 349b can be positioned between the back top panel 227b and the back portion 221b of the attachment panel 221.

Such arrangement of the reinforcement panels 231a, 231b can provide the panels 231a, 231b in an at least partially enclosing arrangement around the caps CP, flanges F, and upper portions of the respective necks N of respective containers B. Such arrangement of the reinforcement panels 231a, 231b can further position the respective container retention openings 285a, 285b to receive a respective portion of a respective container B therethrough, e.g., a cap CP and flange F thereof.

In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcement panel 231a can be overlapped in at least partial face-to-face contact with the reinforcement panel 231b such that the reinforcement panel end flaps 335 are presented overlapping the respective attachment end flaps 323 and extending away from the reinforcement portion 313 of the carrier 305.

In some embodiments, one or both of the reinforcement panel end flaps 335 can be pulled upwardly and/or away from the attachment panel 221, for example, to at least partially separate respective portions and/or otherwise deconstruct the carrier 305/package 310, for example, to facilitate access to one or more of the containers B.

In some embodiments, one or more of the reinforcement panel end flaps 335 and the attachment panel end flaps 333 can be grasped as a handle or user engagement feature to move and/or carry the carrier 305/package 310.

Still referring to FIG. 9, the carrier 305 can be grasped by inserting a user's fingers through the overlapped and aligned handle openings 289a, 289b, 287. Such engagement of the carrier 305 by the user can cause one or more of the handle reinforcement flaps 391a, 391b, 291a, 291b to fold downwardly at the respective longitudinal fold lines 393a, 393b, 293a, 293b, to provide one or more additional plies of material between the user's fingers and the underside of the carrier 305, e.g., for comfort, to avoid pinching, etc. and/or to provide a reinforced structure for engagement by the user that is resistant to tearing or other deformation due to carrying stresses. In this regard, the handle openings 287, 289a, 289b and handle reinforcement flaps 391a, 391b, 291a, 291b and associated features can form handle features of the carrier 305.

The formed carrier 305 and package 310 including the containers B provides the front portion 306 and back portion 308 thereof, with the reinforcement portion 313 formed by the respective portion of the attachment panel 221 extending from the front portion 306 to the back portion 308 between respective containers B. Such an arrangement provides advantages similar to those described above with respect to the carriers 105, 205/packages 110, 210.

FIG. 10 is a plan view of an exterior surface 401 of a blank 403 for forming a carrier 405 (FIG. 12) according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. FIGS. 10A and 10B are enlarged views of a portion of the blank 403. The blank 403 and the carrier 405 formed therefrom can have one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the blanks 103, 203, 303/carriers 105, 205, 305, and like or similar features are designated with like or similar reference numerals.

As described further herein, the carrier 405 can be configured for holding/supporting/retaining/receiving a plurality of containers. The carrier 405 can be provided with one or more containers to form a package 410 (FIG. 12).

In the illustrated embodiment, the front portion 406 and the back portion 408 of the carrier 405 each have four containers, though the carrier 405 can carry more or less than eight containers without departing from the disclosure. In an alternative configuration, the carrier 405 can be sized to contain or support six containers, with three containers B being attached to a front portion 406 of the carrier 405 and three containers B being attached to a back portion 408 of the carrier 405. The carrier 405 can be sized and shaped to hold a different number of containers B without departing from the disclosure.

With continued reference to FIG. 10, the blank 403 has a longitudinal axis L1 and a lateral axis L2. The blank 403 has a front portion 407 for forming the front portion 406 of the carrier 405, a back portion 409 for forming the back portion 408 of the carrier 405, and a central or reinforcement portion 411 for forming a central or reinforcement portion 413 of the carrier 405 extending from the front portion 406 of the carrier 405 to the back portion 408 of the carrier 405 for reinforcing the carrier 405.

The blank 403 and carrier 405 formed therefrom can include a plurality of panels and a plurality of end flaps foldably connected to a respective panel of the plurality of panels.

The front portion 407 of the blank 403 and the carrier 405 formed therefrom can include a front portion 421a of an attachment panel 421 (broadly, “central attachment panel”), an outer front panel 423a foldably connected to the attachment panel 421 at a lateral fold line 425a, a front top panel 427a foldably connected to the front panel 423a at a lateral fold line 429a, and an inner front panel 431a foldably connected to the top panel 427a at a lateral fold line 433a.

A front reinforcement panel 435a can be foldably connected to the inner front panel 431a at a lateral fold line 437a, and an attachment flap 439a can be foldably connected to the reinforcement panel 435a at a lateral fold line 441a.

In some embodiments, the inner front panel 431a, the front reinforcement panel 435a, and the attachment flap 439a can be considered a respective inner portion, reinforcement portion, and attachment portion of a reinforcement panel.

The front portion of the blank 403 and the carrier 405 formed therefrom can also include a first gusset 445a and a second gusset 445a foldably connected to respective portions of the attachment panel 421 and the front panels 423a, 431a at opposite longitudinal ends of the blank 403/carrier 405. Each gusset 445a, as shown, can include an inner portion 447a foldably connected to a respective portion of the outer front panel 423a at an oblique fold line 449a, a central portion 451a foldably connected to the front top panel 427a at a longitudinal fold line 453a and to the inner portion 447a at a respective portion of the fold line 429a, and an outer portion 455a foldably connected to the inner front panel 431a at an oblique fold line 457a and to the central portion 451a at a respective portion of the fold line 433a.

The blank 403 and carrier 405 formed therefrom can also include a plurality of container retention features for at least partially receiving a respective container B of a plurality of containers B. In the illustrated embodiment, the attachment panel 421 can include a plurality of container retention openings 461, 463. As shown, the container retention openings 461 can be positioned adjacent lateral ends of the blank 403/carrier 405 and the container retention openings 463 can be positioned therebetween, though a different arrangement of container openings can be provided without departing from the disclosure.

Each container retention opening 461, as shown, can have a generally circular configuration interrupted by an inwardly-extending generally V-shaped portion of the attachment panel 421, and a plurality of container retention tabs 465 can be foldably connected to the attachment panel 421 at respective curved fold lines 467 and positioned extending into the respective container retention opening 461.

Each container retention tab 465, as shown, can include a respective base portion 469 foldably connected to the attachment panel 421 at the respective fold line 467, and a respective distal portion 471 foldably connected to the respective base portion 469 at a respective oblique line of weakening 473.

Respective adjacent container retention tabs 465, as shown, can be separable from one another at a respective lateral cut 475. In some embodiments, one or more relief cuts can intersect the respective oblique line of weakening 473. In some embodiments, one or more relief cuts can intersect the respective curved fold line 467.

With continued reference to FIGS. 10, 10A, and 10B, a plurality of container retention tabs 477 can be foldably connected to the attachment panel 421 at respective curved fold lines 479 and positioned extending into the respective container retention openings 463. Each container retention tab 477, as shown, can include a respective base portion 481 foldably connected to the attachment panel 421 at the respective fold line 479, and a respective distal portion 483 foldably connected to the respective base portion 481 at a respective oblique line of weakening 485.

The container retention features can also include a plurality of laterally spaced container retention openings 487a at least partially interrupting each of the fold lines 429a, 433a for at least partially receiving a respective portion of a container B of the plurality of containers B.

The blank 403 and carrier 405 formed therefrom can further include handle features. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle features can include a pair of laterally spaced apart handle openings 489 defined in a reinforcement portion 421c of the attachment panel 421 between the front portion 421a and a back portion 421b of the attachment panel 421. In the illustrated embodiment, a handle opening 490 can be positioned between the handle openings 489.

In addition, a pair of laterally spaced apart handle openings 491a can be defined in the top panel 435a, and a pair of handle reinforcement flaps 493a can be foldably connected to the top panel 435a at respective longitudinal fold lines 495a and positioned extending into the respective handle openings 491a.

A pair of handle reinforcement flaps 497a can be foldably connected to the top panel 435a at respective longitudinal fold lines 499a and separable from one another at a longitudinal cut. The handle reinforcement flaps 497a can be positioned extending into a handle opening positioned between the handle openings 491a.

In the illustrated embodiment, the back portion 409 of the blank 403 can include a back portion 421b of the attachment panel 421, an outer back panel 423b, a back top panel 427b, an inner back panel 431b, a back reinforcement panel 435b, a back attachment flap 439b, and gussets 445b having associated features that are generally a mirror-image of the corresponding portions of the front portion 407 of the blank 403. Corresponding components (e.g., panels, flaps, fold lines, cuts, etc.) have been designated by corresponding reference numbers that differ by the “a” or “b” suffix, with the “a” components corresponding to the front portion 407 of the blank 403 and the “b” components corresponding to the back portion 409 of the blank 403.

Any of the panels, flaps, fold lines, cuts, or other features could be otherwise shaped, arranged, and/or omitted from the blank 403 without departing from the disclosure. The blank 403 could be sized and/or shaped to accommodate more or less than six containers without departing from this disclosure.

As shown in FIG. 11, the blank 403 can be inverted such that the exterior surface 401 of the blank 403 can be placed atop the containers B and such that the container retention openings 461, 463 of the attachment panel 421 overlie the containers B. Further downward positioning of the attachment panel 421 over the plurality of containers B can activate one or more container retention features to engage respective containers B.

For example, as the attachment panel 421 is lowered or urged downwardly onto the containers B, the respective cap CP and flange F, and, in some embodiments, a portion of the respective neck N, can be at least partially received through the respective container retention openings 461, 463. Such relative movement of the attachment panel 421 and the containers B can cause the respective container retention tabs 465 to separate from one another at the respective cuts 475 and to fold at least partially upwardly at the respective fold lines 467 toward the respective cap CP and/or flange F.

Such movement of the container retention tabs 465 can include relative movement of a respective base portion 469 and distal portion 471 thereof at a respective lines of weakening 473.

Similarly, the respective container retention tabs 477 can fold at least partially upwardly at the respective fold lines 479 toward the respective cap CP and/or flange F of a respective container B being at least partially received through the respective container retention opening 463.

Such movement of the container retention tabs 477 can include relative movement of a respective base portion 481 and distal portion 483 thereof at a respective lines of weakening 485.

In such an arrangement, the respective container retention tabs 465, 477 can be positioned extending upwardly from the attachment panel 421 to a portion of the respective container B. In some embodiments, the respective container retention tabs 465, 477 can contact an underside of a respective flange F of a respective container B in a bracing arrangement.

With reference to FIGS. 11-12, the gussets 445a, 445b can be activated, with the central portion 451a of the respective gusset 445a folded upwardly at the fold line 453a and with the respective portions 447a, 455a folded upwardly at the respective fold lines 449a, 457a and obliquely toward the central portion 451a at respective portions of the respective fold lines 429a, 433a.

Similarly, the central portion 451b of the respective gusset 445b can be folded upwardly at the fold line 453b, and the respective portions 447b, 455b can be folded upwardly at the respective fold lines 449b, 457b and obliquely toward the central portion 451b at respective portions of the respective fold lines 429b, 433b. In this regard, the gussets 445a can be positioned between the front top panel 427a and the front portion 421a of the attachment panel 421, and the gussets 445b can be positioned between the back top panel 427b and the back portion 421b of the attachment panel 421.

Simultaneously or thereafter, the inner front panel 423a and the inner back panel 423b can be folded upwardly relative to the attachment panel 421 at the respective fold lines 425a, 425b.

The top panel 427b can be folded at the fold line 429b into generally parallel and spaced relation with the attachment panel 421 so as to overlie the caps CP of respective containers B, and the inner back panel 431b can be folded at the fold line 433b toward the attachment panel 421.

The reinforcement panel 435b can be positioned to lie in overlapping and generally parallel relation with the attachment panel 421, and the attachment flap 439b can be folded at the fold line 441b to extend at least partially obliquely upwardly relative to the reinforcement panel 435b.

Similarly, the top panel 427a can be folded at the fold line 429a into generally parallel and spaced relation with the attachment panel 421 so as to overlie the caps CP of respective containers B, and the inner front panel 431a can be folded at the fold line 433a toward the attachment panel 421. In such an arrangement, the inner front panel 431a can at least partially overlie the attachment flap 439b.

The reinforcement panel 435a can be positioned to lie in overlapping and generally parallel relation with the reinforcement panel 435b, and the attachment flap 439a can be folded at the fold line 441a to extend at least partially obliquely upwardly relative to the reinforcement panel 435a to at least partially overlie the inner back panel 431b.

In some embodiments, the reinforcement panel 435a can be positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the attachment panel 421 and with the reinforcement panel 435b in at least partial face-to-face contact and overlying the reinforcement panel 435a.

Such arrangement of the panels 423a, 427a, 431a can be in an at least partially enclosing arrangement around the caps CP, flanges F, and upper portions of the respective necks N of respective containers B in the front portion 406 of the carrier 405, and such arrangement of the panels 423b, 427b, 431b can be in an at least partially enclosing arrangement around the caps CP, flanges F, and upper portions of the respective necks N of respective containers B in the back portion 408 of the carrier 405.

Such arrangement of the panels 423a, 431a can further position the respective container retention openings 487a to receive a respective portion of a respective container B therethrough, e.g., a cap CP and flange F thereof. Similarly, the panels 423b, 431b can be positioned such that the respective container retention openings 487b at least partially receive a respective portion of a respective container B therethrough.

The formed carrier 405 and package 410 including the containers B provides the front portion 406 and back portion 408 thereof, with the reinforcement portion 413 formed by the respective portion 421c of the attachment panel 421 and the respective reinforcement panels 435a, 435b overlapping the attachment panel 421 and extending from the front portion 406 to the back portion 408 between respective containers B. Such an arrangement provides reinforcement to the carrier 405 in the course of movement or other loading, e.g., transportation, storage, carrying, incidental to use, etc. In this regard, the arrangement of reinforcement portion 411 of the attachment panel 421 provides the carrier 405 with an increased capacity to minimize, inhibit, avoid, prevent, and/or otherwise resist bending, bowing, flexing, buckling, curling, deflection, and/or other deformation.

Still referring to FIGS. 11-12, the carrier 405 can be grasped by inserting a user's fingers through the overlapped and aligned handle openings 489, 491a, 491b and the handle opening 490 aligned with and overlapped by the handle openings into which the respective handle reinforcement flaps 497a, 497b extend.

Such engagement of the carrier 405 by the user can cause one or more of the handle reinforcement flaps 493a 493b, 497a, 497b to fold downwardly at the respective longitudinal fold lines 495a, 495b, 499a, 499b to provide one or more additional plies of material between the user's fingers and the underside of the carrier 405, e.g., for comfort, to avoid pinching, etc. and/or to provide a reinforced structure for engagement by the user that is resistant to tearing or other deformation due to carrying stresses. In this regard, the handle openings 489, 490, 491a, 491b and handle reinforcement flaps 493a, 493b, 497a, 497b and associated features can form handle features of the carrier 405.

The package 410/carrier 405 described above has a compact structure that can, for example, provide materials savings and waste reduction. Additionally, the positioning of the reinforcement portion 421c of the attachment panel 421/reinforcement portion 413 between the front portion 406 and the back portion 408 of the carrier 405 results in a robust structure for holding and carrying the containers B. Further, the exposure of one or more portions of the containers B on exterior portions of the carrier 405/package 410 provides a consumer with a clear view of labeling or surface graphics associated with the containers B as well as providing convenient access to remove one or more of the containers B from the carrier 405/package 410. Such an arrangement provides advantages similar to those described above with respect to the carriers 105, 205, 305/packages 110, 210, 310.

Turning to FIGS. 13 and 13A, an exterior surface 501 of a blank 503 for forming a carrier 505 (FIG. 14) according to a fifth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure is illustrated. The blank 503 and carrier 505 formed therefrom can have one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the blanks 103, 203, 303, 403 and carriers 105, 205, 305, 405 formed therefrom, and like or similar features are designated with like or similar reference numerals. The carrier 505 can be provided with one or more containers B as a package 510 (FIG. 14).

As shown, the blank 503 can have the longitudinal axis L1, the lateral axis L2, a front portion 507 for forming a front portion 506 of the carrier 505, a back portion 509 for forming a back portion 508 of the carrier 505, and a reinforcement portion 511 extending from the front portion 507 to the back portion 509 for forming a reinforcement portion 513 of the carrier 505 extending from the front portion 506 of the carrier 505 to the back portion 508 of the carrier 505 for reinforcing the carrier 505. The blank 503 and carrier 505 formed therefrom can include the panels 421, 423a, 423b, 427a, 427b, 431a, 431b, 435a, 435b, the attachment flaps 439a, 439b, and associated features, as shown.

The blank 503 and carrier 505 formed therefrom can also include the container retention openings 461 and container retention tabs 465, as shown. However, the attachment panel 421 of the blank 503/carrier 505 can at least partially define container retention openings 563 laterally positioned between respective container retention openings 461.

Each container retention opening 563, as shown in FIG. 13A, can have a generally circular configuration interrupted by laterally opposed and inwardly-extending generally V-shaped portions of the attachment panel 421, and a plurality of container retention tabs 565 can be foldably connected to the attachment panel 421 at respective curved fold lines 567 and positioned extending into the respective container retention opening 563.

Each container retention tab 565, as shown, can include a respective base portion 569 foldably connected to the attachment panel 421 at the respective fold line 567, and a respective distal portion 571 foldably connected to the respective base portion 569 at a respective oblique line of weakening 573.

In addition, the blank 503 and carrier 505 formed therefrom can have a dimension along the lateral axis L2 smaller than that of the blank 403/carrier 405, such that the blank 503 and carrier 505 can be devoid of the handle opening 490, handle reinforcement flaps 497a, 497b, and associated features. However, it will be understood that the blank 503 and carrier 505 formed therefrom can be configured and dimensioned so as to accommodate a desired number and arrangement of container B.

With additional reference to FIG. 14, the carrier 505 and package 510 can be formed from the blank 503 in a manner similar to that described above with respect to the formation of the carriers 105, 205, 305, 405 from the blanks 103, 203, 303, 403, to provide similar functionality and advantages.

Turning to FIGS. 15 and 15A, an exterior surface 601 of a blank 603 for forming a carrier 605 (FIG. 16) according to a sixth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure is illustrated. The blank 603 and carrier 605 formed therefrom can have one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the blanks 103, 203, 303, 403, 503 and carriers 105, 205, 305, 405, 505 formed therefrom, and like or similar features are designated with like or similar reference numerals. The carrier 605 can be provided with one or more containers B as a package 610 (FIG. 16).

As shown, the blank 603 can have the longitudinal axis L1, the lateral axis L2, a front portion 607 for forming a front portion 606 of the carrier 605, a back portion 609 for forming a back portion 608 of the carrier 605, and a reinforcement portion 611 extending from the front portion 607 to the back portion 609 for forming a reinforcement portion 613 of the carrier 605 extending from the front portion 606 of the carrier 605 to the back portion 608 of the carrier 605 for reinforcing the carrier 605. The blank 603 and carrier 605 formed therefrom can include the panels 421, 423a, 423b, 427a, 427b, 431a, 431b, 435a, 435b, the attachment flaps 439a, 439b, and associated features, as shown.

However, and as shown, the blank 603 can include a plurality of container retention openings 661 at least partially defined by the attachment panel 421, each container retention opening 661 having a generally octagonal-shaped profile.

A plurality of container retention tabs 665 can be foldably connected to the attachment panel 421 at respective longitudinal fold lines 667 and positioned extending into the respective container retention opening 661, and a plurality of container retention tabs 669 can be foldably connected to the attachment panel 421 at respective lateral fold lines 671 and positioned extending into the respective container retention opening 661.

However, and as shown, the laterally outermost container retention tabs 665 can be foldably connected to the attachment panel 421 at a respective portion of a respective fold line 649a, 649b, and the longitudinally outermost container retention tabs 665 can be foldably connected to the attachment panel 421 at respective portions of the respective fold lines 425a, 425b.

The pluralities of container retention tabs 665, 669 can be positioned extending into the respective container retention openings 661 such that the container retention tabs 665 are separable from adjacent container retention tabs 669 at a respective cut 673 having a longitudinal portion 673a and a pair of oblique portions 673b, 673c extending from the longitudinal portion 673a to the attachment panel 421. Adjacent container retention tabs 669 can be separable from one another at a lateral cut 675 that intersects the respective cuts 673.

In addition, the blank 603 and carrier 605/package 610 formed therefrom can include container retention openings 687a, 687b at least partially interrupting the respective fold lines 433a, 433b for at least partially receiving a respective portion of a respective container B of the plurality of containers B. As shown, the container retention openings 687a, 687b can have a generally boiling flask or keyhole-shaped configuration, though one or more of the container retention openings 687a, 687b can have a different configuration without departing from the disclosure.

The blank 603 and carrier 605 formed therefrom can also be devoid of the gussets 445a, 445b, but can instead include gussets 645a, 645b foldably connected to respective portions of the blank 603/carrier 605.

The gussets 645a can include an inner portion 647a foldably connected to the front portion 421a of the attachment panel 421 at a respective portion of the longitudinal fold line 649a, a central portion 651a foldably connected to the inner portion 647a at an oblique fold line 653a, and an outer portion 655a foldably connected to the outer front panel 423a at a respective portion of the fold line 649a and to the central portion 651a at an oblique fold line 657a.

Similarly, each gusset 645b can include an inner portion 647a foldably connected to the back portion 421b of the attachment panel 421 at a respective portion of a longitudinal fold line 649b, a central portion 651b foldably connected to the inner portion 647b at an oblique fold line 653b, and an outer portion 655b foldably connected to the inner back panel 431b at a respective portion of the fold line 649b and to the central portion 651b at an oblique fold line 657b.

Still referring to FIGS. 15 and 15A, the blank 603 and carrier 605 formed therefrom can include a pair of container reinforcement flaps 675a foldably connected to the front top panel 427a at a respective longitudinal fold line 677a, and a pair of container retention flaps 679a foldably connected to the inner front panel 431a at respective longitudinal fold lines 681a.

Similarly, a pair of container reinforcement flaps 675b can be foldably connected to the back top panel 427b at a respective longitudinal fold line 677b, and a pair of container retention flaps 679b can be foldably connected to the outer front panel 431b at respective longitudinal fold lines 681b.

Turning to FIG. 16, the blank 603 can be inverted such that the exterior surface 601 of the blank 603 can be placed atop the containers B and such that the container retention openings 661 of the attachment panel 421 overlie the containers B. Further downward positioning of the attachment panel 421 over the plurality of containers B can activate one or more container retention features to engage respective containers B.

For example, as the attachment panel 421 is lowered or urged downwardly onto the containers B, the respective cap CP and flange F, and, in some embodiments, a portion of the respective neck N, can be at least partially received through the respective container retention openings 661. Such relative movement of the attachment panel 421 and the containers B can cause the respective container retention tabs 665, 669 to separate from one another at the respective cuts 673, 675 and to fold at least partially upwardly at the respective fold lines 667, 671, 425a, 425b, 649a, 649b toward the respective cap CP and/or flange F.

In such an arrangement, the respective container retention tabs 665, 669 can be positioned extending upwardly from the attachment panel 421 to a portion of the respective container B. In some embodiments, the respective container retention tabs 665, 669 can contact an underside of a respective flange F of a respective container B in a bracing arrangement.

The gussets 645a, 645b can be activated, with the inner portion 647a of the gussets 645a folded upwardly at the respective portion of the fold line 649a, the central portion 651a folded relative to the inner portion 647a at the fold line 653a and/or relative to the outer portion 655a at the fold line 657a, and the outer portion 655a folded at least partially upwardly at the respective portion of the fold line 649a.

Similarly, the inner portions 647b of the gussets 645b can be folded upwardly at the respective portion of the fold lines 649b, the central portions 651b can be folded relative to the inner portion 647b at the fold line 653b and/or relative to the outer portion 655b at the fold line 657b, and the outer portion 655b can be folded at least partially upwardly at the respective portion of the fold line 649b. In this regard, the gussets 645a can be positioned between the front top panel 427a and the front portion 421a of the attachment panel 421, and the gussets 645b can be positioned between the back top panel 427b and the back portion 421b of the attachment panel 421.

In addition the respective container reinforcement flaps 675a, 675b, 679a, 679b can be folded at the respective fold lines 677a, 677b, 681a, 681b toward the respective panels 427a, 427b, 431a, 431b.

Simultaneously or thereafter, the outer front panel 423a and the outer back panel 423b can be folded upwardly relative to the attachment panel 421 at the respective fold lines 425a, 425b.

The top panel 427b can be folded at the fold line 429b into generally parallel and spaced relation with the attachment panel 421 so as to overlie the caps CP of respective containers B, and the inner panel 431b can be folded at the fold line 433b toward the attachment panel 421.

The reinforcement panel 435b can be positioned to lie in overlapping and generally parallel relation with the attachment panel 421, and the attachment flap 439b can be folded at the fold line 441b to extend at least partially obliquely upwardly relative to the reinforcement panel 435b. In such an arrangement, the inner panel 431b is also positioned extending at least partially obliquely upwardly away from the reinforcement panel 435b.

Similarly, the top panel 427a can be folded at the fold line 429a into generally parallel and spaced relation with the attachment panel 421 so as to overlie the caps CP of respective containers B, and the inner front panel 431a can be folded at the fold line 433a toward the attachment panel 421. In such an arrangement, the inner front panel 431a can at least partially overlie the attachment flap 439b.

The reinforcement panel 435a can be positioned to lie in overlapping and generally parallel relation with the reinforcement panel 435b, and the attachment flap 439a can be folded at the fold line 441a to extend at least partially obliquely upwardly relative to the reinforcement panel 435a to at least partially overlie the inner back panel 431b. The inner front panel 431a is also positioned extending at least partially obliquely upwardly away from the reinforcement panel 435a.

In some embodiments, the reinforcement panel 435a can be positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the attachment panel 421 and with the reinforcement panel 435b in at least partial face-to-face contact and overlying the reinforcement panel 435a.

Such arrangement of the panels 423a, 427a, 431a can be in an at least partially enclosing arrangement around the caps CP, flanges F, and upper portions of the respective necks N of respective containers B in the front portion 606 of the carrier 605, and such arrangement of the panels 423b, 427b, 431b can be in an at least partially enclosing arrangement around the caps CP, flanges F, and upper portions of the respective necks N of respective containers B of the back portion 608 of the carrier 605. The geometry and presence of the respective gussets 645a, 645b and container reinforcement flaps 675a, 675b, 679a, 679b within such enclosed portions can, for example, take up empty space and/or provide a tighter engagement of the carrier 605 with the containers B.

Such arrangement of the panels 423a, 427a can further position the respective container retention openings 687a to receive a respective portion of a respective container B therethrough, e.g., a cap CP and flange F thereof. Similarly, the panels 423b, 427b can be positioned such that the respective container retention openings 687b at least partially receive a respective portion of a respective container B therethrough.

The formed carrier 605 and package 610 including the containers B provides the front portion 606 and back portion 608 thereof, with the reinforcement portion 611 formed by the respective portion 421c of the attachment panel 421 and the respective reinforcement panels 435a, 435b overlapping the attachment panel 421 and extending from the front portion 606 to the back portion 608 between respective containers B. Such an arrangement provides reinforcement to the carrier 605 in the course of movement or other loading, e.g., transportation, storage, carrying, incidental to use, etc. In this regard, the arrangement of reinforcement portion 611 of the attachment panel 421 provides the carrier 605 with an increased capacity to minimize, inhibit, avoid, prevent, and/or otherwise resist bending, bowing, flexing, buckling, curling, deflection, and/or other deformation.

The package 610/carrier 605 described above has a compact structure that can, for example, provide materials savings and waste reduction. Additionally, the positioning of the reinforcement portion 611 of the attachment panel 421/reinforcement portion 613 between the front portion 606 and the back portion 608 of the carrier 605 results in a robust structure for holding and carrying the containers B. Further, the exposure of one or more portions of the containers B on exterior portions of the carrier 605/package 610 provides a consumer with a clear view of labeling or surface graphics associated with the containers B as well as providing convenient access to remove one or more of the containers B from the carrier 605/package 610. Such an arrangement provides advantages similar to those described above with respect to the carriers 105, 205, 305, 405, 505/packages 110, 210, 310, 410, 510.

Turning to FIG. 17, an exterior surface 701 of a blank 703 for forming a carrier 705 (FIG. 18) according to a seventh exemplary embodiment of the disclosure is illustrated. The blank 703 and carrier 705 formed therefrom can have one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the blanks 103, 203, 303, 405, 503, 603 and carriers 205, 305, 405, 505, 605 formed therefrom, and like or similar features are designated with like or similar reference numerals. The carrier 705 can be provided with one or more containers B as a package 710 (FIG. 18).

As shown, the blank 703 can be generally similar to the blank 603 described above, and has a front portion 707 for forming a front portion 706 of the carrier 705, a back portion 709 for forming a back portion 708 of the carrier 705, and a reinforcement portion 711 for forming a reinforcement portion 713 of the carrier 705 extending from the front portion 706 of the carrier 705 to the back portion 708 of the carrier 705 for reinforcing the carrier 705.

However, the container retention features of the blank 703 and carrier 705 formed therefrom can include container retention openings 787a, 787b interrupting the respective fold lines 433a, 433b for at least partially receiving respective containers B of the plurality of containers B.

As shown, the respective container retention openings 787a, 787b can each have a respective base portion at least partially between the respective fold lines 429a, 433a and fold lines 429b, 433b, and a generally square or rectangular distal portion extending away from the respective base portion.

With additional reference to FIG. 18, the carrier 705 and package 710 can be formed from the blank 703 in a manner generally similar to that described above with respect to the formation of the carrier 605 and package 610 from the blank 603, with similar advantages and functionality.

As shown, the carrier 705 and package 710 is configured and arranged such that at least the cap CP and flange F of the respective containers B can be at least partially received through the respective container retention openings 787a, 787b. In some embodiments, the base portion of the respective container retention openings 787a, 787b is configured to at least partially approximate and expose the respective caps CP of the respective containers B, and the respective distal portions of the respective container retention openings 787a, 787b is such to underlie and/or at least partially engage the respective flanges F of the respective containers C.

Such an arrangement of the container retention openings 787a, 787b about the respective containers B can be such that a desired amount of exposure of the containers B can be afforded, e.g., for product inspection, to display printed, textured, and/or colored surface information on the containers B, while further enhancing the engagement between the carrier 705 and the respective contains B.

Turning to FIG. 19, an exterior surface 801 of a blank 803 for forming a carrier 805 (FIG. 20) according to an eighth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure is illustrated. The blank 803 and carrier 805 formed therefrom can have one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the blanks 103, 203, 303, 405, 503, 603, 703 and carriers 205, 305, 405, 505, 605, 705 formed therefrom, and like or similar features are designated with like or similar reference numerals. The carrier 805 can be provided with one or more containers B as a package 810 (FIG. 20).

As shown, the blank 803 can be generally similar to the blank 703 described above, and has a front portion 807 for forming a front portion 806 of the carrier 805, a back portion 809 for forming a back portion 808 of the carrier 805, and a reinforcement portion 811 for forming a reinforcement portion 813 of the carrier 805 extending from the front portion 806 of the carrier 805 to the back portion 808 of the carrier 805 for reinforcing the carrier 805.

As shown in FIG. 19A, the blank 803 and carrier 805 formed therefrom can include the respective container retention openings 661, and a plurality of container retention tabs 869 positioned extending into the respective container retention openings 661. In the illustrated embodiment, a pair of laterally opposed container retention tabs 869 can be foldably connected to the attachment panel 421 at a respective longitudinal fold line 871 and positioned extending into each respective container retention opening 661, and a pair of longitudinally opposed container retention tabs 869 can be positioned extending into each respective container retention opening 661, with adjacent container retention tabs 869 in each respective container retention openings 661 at least partially separable at a respective oblique cut 873.

The longitudinally outermost container retention tabs 869 can be foldably connected to the attachment panel at respective portions of the respective fold line 425a, 425b, and the longitudinally innermost container retention tabs 869 can be foldably connected to the attachment panel 421 at respective lateral fold lines 875.

With additional reference to FIG. 20, the carrier 805 and package 810 can be formed from the blank 803 in a manner generally similar to that described above with respect to the formation of the carrier 705 and package 710 from the blank 703, with similar advantages and functionality.

Turning to FIG. 21, an exterior surface 901 of a blank 903 for forming a carrier according to a ninth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure is illustrated. The blank 903 and carrier formed therefrom can have one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the blanks 103, 203, 303, 405, 503, 603, 703, 803 and carriers 205, 305, 405, 505, 605, 705, 805 formed therefrom, and like or similar features are designated with like or similar reference numerals. The carrier formed from the blank 903 can be provided with one or more containers B as a package.

As shown, the blank 903 can be generally similar to the blank 703 described above, and has a front portion 907 for forming a front portion of a carrier, a back portion 909 for forming a back portion of carrier, and a reinforcement portion 911 for forming a reinforcement portion of the carrier extending from the front portion of the carrier formed from the blank 903 to the back portion of the carrier formed from the blank 903 for reinforcing the carrier.

The blank 903 and carrier formed therefrom can include the respective container retention openings 987a at least partially defined in the front top panel 427a and interrupting the fold lines 429a, 433a so as to extend at least partially into the outer front panel 423a and the inner front panel 431a.

Each container retention opening 987a, as shown, can have a generally bowtie-like configuration, with a generally circular central portion 989a proximate the front top panel 427a and a pair of generally boiling flask or keyhole-shaped portions 991a extending into the respective panels 429a, 433a. In some embodiments, the portions 991a of the container retention openings 987a can have generally tapering edges configured and dimensioned to engage a portion of a respective container B therethrough when a carrier/package is formed from the blank 903. For example, in some embodiments, the portions 991a of the container retention openings 987a defined by the respective adjacent panels 429a, 433a can be configured and dimensioned for frictional and/or interfering contact with one or more ribs or knurls formed on an outer surface of the cap CP of a respective container B of the plurality of containers B. Such contact can, for example, maintain a rotational position of a respective container B along a carrier and package formed from the blank 903, for example, so as to maintain a desired orientation of surface graphics or labeling for viewing by a customer.

Similarly, each container retention opening 987b, can have a generally bowtie-like configuration, with a generally circular central portion 989b proximate the back top panel 427b and a pair of generally boiling flask or keyhole-shaped portions 991b extending into the respective panels 429b, 433b. In some embodiments, the portions 991b of the container retention openings 987b can have generally tapering edges configured and dimensioned to engage a portion of a respective container B therethrough when a carrier/package is formed from the blank 903. For example, in some embodiments, the portions 991b of the container retention openings 987b defined by the respective adjacent panels 429b, 433b can be configured and dimensioned for frictional and/or interfering engagement with one or more ribs or knurls formed on an outer surface of the cap CP of a respective container B of the plurality of containers B.

A carrier and package can be formed from the blank 903 in a manner generally similar to that described above with respect to the formation of the carrier 705 and package 710 from the blank 703, with similar advantages and functionality.

Turning to FIG. 22, an exterior surface 1001 of a blank 1003 for forming a carrier according to a tenth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure is illustrated. The blank 1003 and carrier formed therefrom can have one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the blanks 103, 203, 303, 405, 503, 603, 703, 803, 903 and carriers 205, 305, 405, 505, 605, 705, 805, 905 formed therefrom, and like or similar features are designated with like or similar reference numerals. The carrier formed from the blank 1003 can be provided with one or more containers B as a package.

As shown, the blank 1003 can be generally similar to the blank 903 described above, and has a front portion 1007 for forming a front portion of a carrier, a back portion 1009 for forming a back portion of carrier, and a reinforcement portion 1011 for forming a reinforcement portion of the carrier extending from the front portion of the carrier formed from the blank 1003 to the back portion of the carrier formed from the blank 1003 for reinforcing the carrier.

A carrier and package can be formed from the blank 1003 in a manner generally similar to that described above with respect to the formation of the carrier 705 and package 710 from the blank 703, with similar advantages and functionality.

It will be understood that the blanks and carriers described herein can be provided in different configurations without departing from the disclosure. For example, the blanks and carriers described herein can be sized and provided with a corresponding number of features suitable to engage a desired number and configuration of containers.

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 front portion, the front portion comprising a portion of at least one attachment panel for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers;a back portion, the back portion comprising a portion of the at least one attachment panel for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers; anda reinforcement portion extending from the front portion to the back portion for reinforcing the carrier.

2. The carrier of claim 1, wherein the at least one attachment panel is a central attachment panel comprising a front portion, a back portion, and a reinforcement portion between the front portion and the back portion, the front portion of the carrier comprises the front portion of the central attachment panel, the back portion of the carrier comprises the back portion of the central attachment panel, and the reinforcement portion of the carrier comprises the reinforcement portion of the central attachment panel, the reinforcement portion of the carrier further comprises at least one reinforcement panel at least partially overlapping the reinforcement portion of the central attachment panel.

3. The carrier of claim 2, wherein the at least one reinforcement panel is a front reinforcement panel, and the reinforcement portion further comprises a back reinforcement panel, one of the front reinforcement panel and the back reinforcement panel in at least partial face-to-face contact with the reinforcement portion of the central attachment panel.

4. The carrier of claim 3, wherein each of the front portion of the central attachment panel and the back portion of the central attachment panel comprises a respective container retention opening for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers therethrough.

5. The carrier of claim 4, wherein a plurality of container retention tabs are foldably connected to the central attachment panel and positioned extending into a respective container retention opening for engaging a respective portion of a respective container of the plurality of containers.

6. The carrier of claim 4, wherein the front portion of the carrier comprises an outer front panel foldably connected to the central attachment panel, a front top panel foldably connected to the front panel, and an inner front panel foldably connected to the front top panel, the front reinforcement panel foldably connected to the inner front panel.

7. The carrier of claim 6, further comprising at least one gusset or at least one gusset end flap foldably connected to a respective portion of at least one of the inner front panel and the front top panel, the at least one gusset or the at least one gusset end flap positioned between the front top panel and the front portion of the central attachment panel.

8. The carrier of claim 6, further comprising at least one attachment end flap foldably connected to the central attachment panel and at least one reinforcement panel end flap foldably connected to the front reinforcement panel, the at least one attachment end flap and the at least one reinforcement panel end flap positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact extending away from the reinforcement portion of the carrier.

9. The carrier of claim 6, wherein the inner front panel comprises a plurality of container retention openings for at least partially receiving a respective portion of a respective container of the plurality of containers therethrough.

10. The carrier of claim 9, wherein the plurality of container retention openings of the inner front panel extend at least partially into each of the front top panel and the outer front panel.

11. The carrier of claim 9, wherein the front portion further comprises an attachment flap foldably connected to the front reinforcement panel, the inner front panel and the attachment flap extend obliquely upwardly and away from the front reinforcement panel.

12. The carrier of claim 11, wherein the back portion of the carrier comprises an outer back panel foldably connected to the central attachment panel, a back top panel foldably connected to the front panel, and an inner back panel foldably connected to the back top panel, the back reinforcement panel foldably connected to the inner back panel.

13. The carrier of claim 12, wherein the back portion further comprises an attachment flap foldably connected to the back reinforcement panel and in at least partial face-to-face contact with the inner front panel, the inner back panel and the attachment flap extend obliquely upwardly and away from the back reinforcement panel, the back reinforcement panel is in at least partial face-to-face contact with each of the reinforcement portion of the central attachment panel and the front reinforcement panel.

14. A blank for forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the blank comprising: a portion of at least one attachment panel for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers for forming a front portion of the carrier formed from the blank;a portion of the attachment panel for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers for forming a back portion of the carrier formed from the blank; anda portion of the at least one attachment panel for extending from the front portion to the back portion of the carrier formed from the blank for reinforcing the carrier formed from the blank.

15. The blank of claim 14, wherein the at least one attachment panel is a central attachment panel comprising a front portion, a back portion, and a reinforcement portion between the front portion and the back portion, the front portion of the central attachment panel is for forming the front portion of the carrier formed from the blank, the back portion of the central attachment panel is for forming the back portion of the carrier formed from the blank, and the reinforcement portion of the central attachment panel is for forming the reinforcement portion of the carrier formed from the blank, the blank further comprises at least one reinforcement panel for at least partially overlapping the reinforcement portion of the central attachment panel when the carrier is formed from the blank.

16. The blank of claim 15, wherein the at least one reinforcement panel is a front reinforcement panel, and the reinforcement portion further comprises a back reinforcement panel, one of the front reinforcement panel and the back reinforcement panel for being positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the reinforcement portion of the central attachment panel when the carrier is formed from the blank.

17. The blank of claim 16, wherein each of the front portion of the central attachment panel and the back portion of the central attachment panel comprises a respective container retention opening for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers therethrough.

18. The blank of claim 17, wherein a plurality of container retention tabs are foldably connected to the central attachment panel and positioned extending into a respective container retention opening for engaging a respective portion of a respective container of the plurality of containers.

19. The blank of claim 17, further comprising an outer front panel foldably connected to the central attachment panel, a front top panel foldably connected to the front panel, and an inner front panel foldably connected to the front top panel, the front reinforcement panel foldably connected to the inner front panel.

20. The blank of claim 19, further comprising at least one gusset or at least one gusset end flap foldably connected to a respective portion of at least one of the inner front panel and the front top panel, the at least one gusset or the at least one gusset end flap for being positioned between the front top panel and the front portion of the central attachment panel when the carrier is formed from the blank.

21. The blank of claim 19, further comprising at least one attachment end flap foldably connected to the central attachment panel and at least one reinforcement panel end flap foldably connected to the front reinforcement panel, the at least one attachment end flap and the at least one reinforcement panel end flap for being positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact extending away from the reinforcement portion of the carrier formed from the blank.

22. The blank of claim 19, wherein the inner front panel comprises a plurality of container retention openings for at least partially receiving a respective portion of a respective container of the plurality of containers therethrough.

23. The blank of claim 22, wherein the plurality of container retention openings of the inner front panel extend at least partially into each of the front top panel and the outer front panel.

24. The blank of claim 22, wherein the front portion of the central attachment panel further comprises an attachment flap foldably connected to the front reinforcement panel, the inner front panel and the attachment flap for extending obliquely upwardly and away from the front reinforcement panel when the carrier is formed from the blank.

25. The blank of claim 24, wherein the back portion of the carrier comprises an outer back panel foldably connected to the central attachment panel, a back top panel foldably connected to the front panel, and an inner back panel foldably connected to the back top panel, the back reinforcement panel foldably connected to the inner back panel.

26. The blank of claim 25, wherein the back portion further comprises an attachment flap foldably connected to the back reinforcement panel and for being positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the inner front panel when the carrier is formed from the blank, the inner back panel and the attachment flap for extending obliquely upwardly and away from the back reinforcement panel when the carrier is formed from the blank, the back reinforcement panel for being positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with each of the reinforcement portion of the central attachment panel and the front reinforcement panel when the carrier is formed from the blank.

27. A method of forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the method comprising: obtaining a blank, the blank comprising at least one attachment panel for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers;positioning a portion of the at least one attachment panel to form a front portion of the carrier;positioning a portion of the at least one attachment panel to form a back portion of the carrier; andpositioning a portion of the at least one attachment panel to form a reinforcement portion of the carrier extending from the front portion of the carrier to the back portion of the carrier and reinforcing the carrier.

28. The method of claim 27, wherein the at least one attachment panel is a central attachment panel comprising a front portion, a back portion, and a reinforcement portion between the front portion and the back portion, the blank further comprises at least one reinforcement panel, the method comprises positioning the front portion of the central attachment panel to at least partially form the front portion of the carrier, method comprises positioning the back portion of the central attachment panel to at least partially form the back portion of the carrier, the method comprises positioning the reinforcement portion of the central attachment panel to at least partially form the reinforcement portion of the carrier, and the method comprises at least partially overlapping the at least one reinforcement panel on the reinforcement portion of the central attachment panel.

29. The method of claim 28, wherein the at least one reinforcement panel is a front reinforcement panel, and the reinforcement portion further comprises a back reinforcement panel, and the method comprises positioning one of the front reinforcement panel and the back reinforcement panel in at least partial face-to-face contact with the reinforcement portion of the central attachment panel.

30. The method of claim 28, wherein each of the front portion of the central attachment panel and the back portion of the central attachment panel comprises a respective container retention opening for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers therethrough.

31. The method of claim 30, wherein a plurality of container retention tabs are foldably connected to the central attachment panel and positioned extending into a respective container retention opening for engaging a respective portion of a respective container of the plurality of containers.

32. The method of claim 30, wherein the blank further comprises an outer front panel foldably connected to the central attachment panel, a front top panel foldably connected to the front panel, and an inner front panel foldably connected to the front top panel, the front reinforcement panel foldably connected to the inner front panel, and the method further comprises positioning the outer front panel and the front top panel to at least partially form the front portion of the carrier.

33. The method of claim 32, wherein the blank further comprises at least one gusset or at least one gusset end flap foldably connected to a respective portion of at least one of the inner front panel and the front top panel, and the method further comprises positioning the at least one gusset or the at least one gusset end flap between the front top panel and the front portion of the central attachment panel.

34. The method of claim 32, wherein the blank further comprises at least one attachment end flap foldably connected to the central attachment panel and at least one reinforcement panel end flap foldably connected to the front reinforcement panel, and the method further comprises positioning the at least one attachment end flap and the at least one reinforcement panel end flap in at least partial face-to-face contact extending away from the reinforcement portion of the carrier.

35. The method of claim 32, wherein the inner front panel comprises a plurality of container retention openings for at least partially receiving a respective portion of a respective container of the plurality of containers therethrough.

36. The method of claim 35, wherein the plurality of container retention openings of the inner front panel extend at least partially into each of the front top panel and the outer front panel.

37. The method of claim 35, wherein the blank further comprises an attachment flap foldably connected to the front reinforcement panel, and the method further comprises positioning the inner front panel and the attachment flap extending obliquely upwardly and away from the front reinforcement panel.

38. The method of claim 37, wherein the blank further comprises an outer back panel foldably connected to the central attachment panel, a back top panel foldably connected to the front panel, and an inner back panel foldably connected to the back top panel, the back reinforcement panel foldably connected to the inner back panel, and the method further comprises positioning the outer back panel and the back top panel at least partially forming the back portion of the carrier.

39. The method of claim 38, wherein the blank further comprises an attachment flap foldably connected to the back reinforcement panel, the method further comprises positioning the attachment flap and in at least partial face-to-face contact with the inner front panel, positioning the inner back panel and the attachment flap extending obliquely upwardly and away from the back reinforcement panel, and positioning the back reinforcement panel in at least partial face-to-face contact with each of the reinforcement portion of the central attachment panel and the front reinforcement panel.

40. A package, the package comprising: a plurality of containers;a carrier holding the plurality of containers, the carrier comprising: a front portion, the front portion comprising a portion of at least one attachment panel at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers;a back portion, the back portion comprising a portion of the at least one attachment panel at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers; anda reinforcement portion extending from the front portion to the back portion for reinforcing the carrier.

41. The package of claim 40, wherein the at least one attachment panel is a central attachment panel comprising a front portion, a back portion, and a reinforcement portion between the front portion and the back portion, the front portion of the carrier comprises the front portion of the central attachment panel, the back portion of the carrier comprises the back portion of the central attachment panel, and the reinforcement portion of the carrier comprises the reinforcement portion of the central attachment panel, the reinforcement portion of the carrier further comprises at least one reinforcement panel at least partially overlapping the reinforcement portion of the central attachment panel.

42. The package of claim 41, wherein the at least one reinforcement panel is a front reinforcement panel, and the reinforcement portion further comprises a back reinforcement panel, one of the front reinforcement panel and the back reinforcement panel in at least partial face-to-face contact with the reinforcement portion of the central attachment panel.

43. The package of claim 42, wherein each of the front portion of the central attachment panel and the back portion of the central attachment panel comprises a respective container retention opening at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers therethrough.

44. The package of claim 43, wherein a plurality of container retention tabs are foldably connected to the central attachment panel and positioned extending into a respective container retention opening for engaging a respective portion of a respective container of the plurality of containers.

45. The package of claim 43, wherein the front portion of the carrier comprises an outer front panel foldably connected to the central attachment panel, a front top panel foldably connected to the front panel, and an inner front panel foldably connected to the front top panel, the front reinforcement panel foldably connected to the inner front panel.

46. The package of claim 45, further comprising at least one gusset or at least one gusset end flap foldably connected to a respective portion of at least one of the inner front panel and the front top panel, the at least one gusset or the at least one gusset end flap positioned between the front top panel and the front portion of the central attachment panel.

47. The package of claim 45, further comprising at least one attachment end flap foldably connected to the central attachment panel and at least one reinforcement panel end flap foldably connected to the front reinforcement panel, the at least one attachment end flap and the at least one reinforcement panel end flap positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact extending away from the reinforcement portion of the carrier.

48. The package of claim 45, wherein the inner front panel comprises a plurality of container retention openings at least partially receiving a respective portion of a respective container of the plurality of containers therethrough.

49. The package of claim 48, wherein the plurality of container retention openings of the inner front panel extend at least partially into each of the front top panel and the outer front panel.

50. The package of claim 48, wherein the front portion further comprises an attachment flap foldably connected to the front reinforcement panel, the inner front panel and the attachment flap extend obliquely upwardly and away from the front reinforcement panel.

51. The package of claim 50, wherein the back portion of the carrier comprises an outer back panel foldably connected to the central attachment panel, a back top panel foldably connected to the front panel, and an inner back panel foldably connected to the back top panel, the back reinforcement panel foldably connected to the inner back panel.

52. The package of claim 51, wherein the back portion further comprises an attachment flap foldably connected to the back reinforcement panel and in at least partial face-to-face contact with the inner front panel, the inner back panel and the attachment flap extend obliquely upwardly and away from the back reinforcement panel, the back reinforcement panel is in at least partial face-to-face contact with each of the reinforcement portion of the central attachment panel and the front reinforcement panel.