Construct With Article Engagement Features

Abstract

A construct for holding at least one article includes at least one panel positioned adjacent an interior of the construct, and attachment features for at least partially engaging one or more portions of the at least one article, the attachment features including at least one article engagement flap foldably connected to the at least one panel, the at least one article engagement flap for being positioned in a recessed portion of the at least one article.

Description

INCORPORATION BY REFERENCE

The disclosures of each of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63/347,617, filed on Jun. 1, 2022, and U.S. Design patent application Ser. No. 29/893,531, filed on May 31, 2023, are hereby incorporated for all purposes as if set forth in their entireties.

BACKGROUND OF THE DISCLOSURE

The present disclosure generally relates to constructs for holding one or more articles. In some embodiments, the present disclosure relates to constructs for holding one or more articles and which include article engagement features.

SUMMARY OF THE DISCLOSURE

According to one aspect, the disclosure is generally directed to a construct for holding at least one article, the construct comprising at least one panel positioned adjacent an interior of the construct; and attachment features for at least partially engaging one or more portions of the at least one article, the attachment features comprising at least one article engagement flap foldably connected to the at least one panel, the at least one article engagement flap for being positioned in a recessed portion of the at least one article.

According to another aspect, the disclosure is generally directed to a blank for forming a construct for holding at least one article, the blank comprising at least one panel for being positioned adjacent an interior of the construct formed from the blank, and attachment features for at least partially engaging one or more portions of the at least one article when the construct is formed from the blank, the attachment features comprising at least one article engagement flap foldably connected to the at least one panel, the at least one article engagement flap for being positioned in a recessed portion of the at least one article when the construct is formed from the blank.

According to another aspect, the disclosure is generally directed to a method of forming a construct for holding at least one article, the method comprising obtaining a blank comprising at least one panel and attachment features comprising at least one article engagement flap foldably connected to the at least one panel, and positioning the at least one panel adjacent an interior of the construct such that the at least one article engagement flap is arranged for being positioned in a recessed portion of the at least one article.

According to another aspect, the disclosure is generally directed to a package, the package comprising at least one article and a construct holding the at least one article, the construct comprising at least one panel positioned adjacent an interior of the construct, and attachment features at least partially engaging one or more portions of the at least one article, the attachment features comprising at least one article engagement flap foldably connected to the at least one panel, the at least one article engagement flap being positioned in a recessed portion of the at least one article.

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.

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 exterior surface of a blank used to form a construct and package according to a first exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a construct and package formed from the blank of FIG. 1 according to the first exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 3 is another perspective view of the construct and package of FIG. 2.

FIG. 4 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank used to form a construct and package according to a second exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of a construct and package formed from the blank of FIG. 4 according to the second exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 6 is another perspective view of a construct and package formed from the blank of FIG. 5 according to the second exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 7 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank used to form a construct and package according to a third exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of a construct and package formed from the blank of FIG. 7 according to the third exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

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

FIG. 10 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank used to form a construct and package according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of a construct and package formed from the blank of FIG. 10 according to the fourth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 12 is another perspective view of a construct and package formed from the blank of FIG. 11 according to the fourth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 13 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank used to form a construct and package according to a fifth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

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

FIG. 15 is another perspective view of a construct and package formed from the blank of FIG. 14 according to the fifth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 16 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank used to form a construct and package according to a sixth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of a construct and package formed from the blank of FIG. 16 according to the sixth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 18 is another perspective view of a construct and package formed from the blank of FIG. 17 according to the sixth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 19 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank used to form a construct and package according to a seventh exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 20 is a perspective view of a construct and package formed from the blank of FIG. 19 according to the seventh exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 21 is another perspective view of a construct and package formed from the blank of FIG. 20 according to the seventh exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 22 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank used to form a construct and package according to an eighth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 23 is a perspective view of a construct and package formed from the blank of FIG. 22 according to the eighth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

FIG. 24 is another perspective view of a construct and package formed from the blank of FIG. 23 according to the eighth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

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

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

Constructs according to the present disclosure can accommodate articles 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 articles such as articles containing food products. Such food products can be e.g., portioned retail food products that can include one or more of cookies, crackers, cakes, pastries, candies, nuts, popcorn, trail mix, gum, etc. Food products described herein can also include, for example, granulized or powdered food products such as cocoa or hot/cold chocolate mix, teas, seasonings such as salt, pepper, herbs, spices, etc., drink mix or flavoring, dehydrated food particles (e.g., soups or mashes), etc. The articles can include an outer or otherwise associated packaging that 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; aluminum and/or other metals; plastics such as PET, LDPE, LLDPE, HDPE, PP, PS, PVC, EVOH, and Nylon; composite materials; and the like, or any combination thereof.

The articles described herein can include different types of food or beverage products, packaging thereof, and/or having different shapes, without departing from the disclosure. In this specification, the terms “lower,” “bottom,” “upper,” and “top” indicate orientations determined in relation to fully erected and upright constructs. As described herein, constructs can be formed from blanks by overlapping multiple panels, portions, and/or end flaps. Such panels, portions and/or end flaps may be designated herein in terms relative to one another, e.g., “first”, “second”, “third”, etc., in sequential or non-sequential reference, without departing from the disclosure.

Referring momentarily to FIG. 2, example articles C that are suitable for use with the present disclosure can include at least one sidewall W, a recessed top portion T (FIG. 8) at least partially defined by an upper rim R1, and a recessed bottom portion B (FIG. 9) at least partially defined by a lower rim R2. It will be understood that the sidewall W, top portion T, and bottom portion B of the articles C can be formed by panels and flaps/end flaps, in overlapping or single arrangements. As also shown, the top portion T is at least partially separable from the at least one sidewall W to access an interior of the article for holding one or more food or beverage product as described above. In some embodiments, the articles C can be a composite-based container such as a Boardio® composite can available from Graphic Packaging International, LLC of Atlanta, GA.

FIG. 1 is a plan view of an exterior surface 101 of a blank, generally indicated at 103, used to form a carton or construct 105 (FIG. 2) according to a first exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. As described further herein, the blank 103 can include article engagement features for forming article engagement features of the construct 105 that are for engaging a portion of one or more articles C. In some embodiments, the article engaging features of the blank 103/construct 105 are for at least partially locking or securing the article(s) C to the construct 105. The construct 105 can be provided with one or more articles C to form a package 110 (FIG. 2).

As shown, the blank 103 has a longitudinal axis L1 and a lateral axis L2 and includes a plurality of panels for extending at least partially around an interior 107 of the construct 105 when the construct 105 is formed from the blank 103. The panels can include a bottom panel or attachment panel 121, a front panel 123 foldably connected to the attachment panel 121 at a lateral fold line 125, and a back panel 127 foldably connected to the attachment panel 121 at a lateral fold line 129. A top panel 131 can also be foldably connected to the front panel 123 at a lateral fold line 133, and a glue flap or attachment flap 135 can be foldably connected to the back panel 127 at a lateral fold line 137.

In the illustrated embodiment, article engagement features of the blank 103/construct 105 can include a pair of article engagement flaps 139, 141 foldably connected to the attachment panel 121 at respective curved fold lines 143, 145.

The article engagement flap 139 can include a base portion 147 foldably connected to the attachment panel 121 at the curved fold line 143, and a distal portion 149 foldably connected to the base portion 147 at a longitudinal fold line 151. Similarly, the article engagement flap 141 can include a base portion 153 foldably connected to the attachment panel 121 at the curved fold line 145, and a distal portion 155 foldably connected to the base portion 153 at a longitudinal fold line 157.

As described further herein, the article engagement flaps 139, 141 are configured to at least partially engage one or more articles C when the construct 105 is formed from the blank 103. In some embodiments, the article engagement flaps 139, 141 are configured for being at least partially received/positioned in the recessed bottom portion B of the one or more articles C. In some embodiments, the article engagement flaps 139, 141 can be configured for being at least partially received/positioned in the recessed top portion T of the one or more articles C.

With continued reference to FIG. 1, the blank 103 and construct 105 formed therefrom can include access features for at least partially accessing one or more articles C in/attached to the construct 105. In the illustrated embodiment, the access features can include a tear strip 159 separably connected to respective portions of the top panel 131 at a pair of lateral tear lines 161, 163 extending along at least a portion of the top panel 131.

With additional reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, formation of the construct 105 and package 110 from the blank 103 according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure will be described.

As shown, the plurality of panels of the blank 103 can be positioned to extend at least partially around an interior 107 of the construct 105 within which at least one article C is at least partially received such that the top panel 131 and the attachment panel 121 are positioned in generally parallel spaced relation, and such that the front panel 123 and the back panel 127 are positioned in generally parallel relation, with the front panel 123 and the back panel 127 extending from the top panel 131 to the attachment panel 121 in general parallel relation thereto. In this regard, the attachment panel 121 is positioned adjacent the interior 107 of the construct 105.

The attachment flap 135 can be folded at the fold line 137 into at least partial face-to-face contact with the top panel 131. In some embodiments, the attachment flap 135 can be attached to the top panel 131 via one or more applications of an adhesive such as glue. In some embodiments, the attachment flap 135 can be attached to the top panel 131 without the use of adhesives.

As shown in detail in FIG. 3, the article engagement flap 139 can be activated by at least partially folding the base portion 147 thereof relative to the attachment panel 121 at the fold line 143, and at least partially folding the distal portion 149 of the article engagement flap 139 relative to the base portion 147 of the article engagement flap 139 at the fold line 151 such that the article engagement flap 139 extends at least partially into the recessed bottom portion B of a respective article C. In such an arrangement, the base portion 147 of the article engagement flap 139 can obliquely extend from the attachment panel 121 to the distal portion 149 of the article engagement flap 139.

As shown, the arrangement of the activated article engagement flap 139 can be such that one or more free edges of the article engagement flap 139 are positioned in engagement with an interior surface of the lower rim R2 of the article C, and the base portion 147 of the article engagement flap 139 can be positioned such to maintain a bracing engagement of the distal portion 149 of the article engagement flap 139 with the lower rim R2.

Similarly, the article engagement flap 141 can be activated by at least partially folding the base portion 153 thereof relative to the attachment panel 121 at the fold line 145, and at least partially folding the distal portion 155 of the article engagement flap 141 relative to the base portion 153 of the article engagement flap 141 at the fold line 157 to position the article engagement flap 141 extending into the recessed bottom portion B of a respective article C. In such an arrangement, the base portion 153 of the article engagement flap 141 can obliquely extend from the attachment panel 121 to the distal portion 155 of the article engagement flap 141. Furthermore, the base portion 153 of the article engagement flap 141 can maintain a bracing engagement of the distal portion 155 thereof with an interior surface of the lower rim R2 of the respective article C similarly to that described above with respect to the article engagement flap 139.

After formation of the construct 105 and package 110 as described above, the one or more articles C can be accessed by at least separating the tear strip 159 from the top panel 131 at one or both of the tear lines 161, 163. Such at least partial removal of the tear strip 159 from engagement with a respective portion of the top panel 131 can at least partially bifurcate the top panel 131 into separated portions that can be moved away from the articles C to provide access to the interior 107 of the construct 105 and the articles C therein.

The article engagement flaps 139, 141 can be separated from the respective articles C by removing the article engagement flaps 139, 141 from the respective recessed bottom portions B thereof. Such removal of the article engagement flaps 139, 141 from engagement with the respective articles C can involve a predetermined amount of applied force on the part of the customer/user so as to avoid inadvertent separation of articles C from the construct 105/package 110. In some embodiments, the article engagement flaps 139, 141 can be provided with tamper evident features, e.g., tearable/deformable portions, audible or haptic feedback associated with disengagement of the flaps 139, 141 from a respective article C, etc.

The foregoing construct 105/package 110 formed from the blank 103 provides a secure packaging that is configured to at least partially attach/lock to the unique configuration of one or more articles C, e.g., a recessed end portion thereof.

Turning to FIG. 4, a plan view of an exterior surface 201 of a blank 203 for forming a construct 205 (FIG. 5) according to a second exemplary embodiment of the disclosure is illustrated. The blank 203 and construct 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 construct 105, and like or similar features are designated with like or similar reference numerals. The construct 205 formed from the blank 203 can be provided with one or more articles C as a package 210 (FIG. 5).

As shown, the blank 203 can be generally similar to the blank 103 described above, except that a product visibility opening 265 can be at least partially formed in respective portions of the front panel 123 and the top panel 131 so as to at least partially interrupt the fold line 133. Furthermore, the blank 203 can be devoid of the attachment flap 135 and can include a first handle panel 267 foldably connected to the back panel 127 at the fold line 137, and a second handle panel 269 foldably connected to the top panel 131 at a lateral fold line 271.

With additional reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, the blank 203 can be formed into the construct 205 and the package 210 in a manner similar to that described above with respect to the formation of the construct 105 and package 110 from the blank 103, with the additional step of positioning the first handle panel 267 and the second handle panel 269 in at least partial face-to-face contact to provide a handle 273. The handle 273 can be positioned generally upright relative to the remainder of the construct 205/package 210, as shown, though can be at least partially folded relative to the remainder of the construct 205/package 210 via folding at the overlapped fold lines 271, 137.

In some embodiments, the handle panels 267, 269 can be at least partially adhered to one another with an adhesive such as glue. In other embodiments, the construct 205/package 210 can be devoid of or minimize the use of glue.

The construct 205 and package 210 provides advantages similar to those described above with respect to the construct 105 and package 110, while additionally providing the handle 273, for example, for ease of use/carrying of the construct 205/package 210 by a customer/user. Furthermore, the presence of the opening 265 in respective portions of the front panel 123 and top panel 131 provides at least partial visibility into the interior 207 of the construct 205 for viewing the articles C, for example, for quality inspection, to view informational or symbolic graphics printed on the articles C, for product featuring/advertising, etc.

Turning to FIG. 7, a plan view of an exterior surface 301 of a blank 303 for forming a construct 305 (FIG. 8) according to a third exemplary embodiment of the disclosure is illustrated. The blank 303 and construct 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 constructs 105, 205 and like or similar features are designated with like or similar reference numerals. The construct 305 formed from the blank 303 can be provided with one or more articles C as a package 310 (FIG. 8).

As shown, the blank 303 can be generally similar to the blanks 103, 203 described above, with the attachment flap 135 foldably connected to the back panel 127, with the opening 265 positioned in respective portions of the front panel 123 and the top panel 131, and with an additional opening 265 positioned in respective portions of the back panel 127 and the attachment flap 135 so as to at least partially interrupt the fold line 137.

With additional reference to FIGS. 8 and 9, the blank 303 can be formed into the construct 305 and the package 310 in a manner similar to that described above with respect to the formation of the constructs 105, 205 and packages 110, 210.

The construct 305 and package 310 provides advantages similar to those described above with respect to the constructs 105, 205 and packages 110, 210, with the additional opening 265 provided in respective portions of the back panel 127 and the attachment flap 135 for enhanced visibility into the interior 307 of the construct 305.

Turning to FIG. 10, a plan view of an exterior surface 401 of a blank 403 for forming a construct according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure is illustrated. The blank 403 and construct 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 and constructs 105, 205, 305 and like or similar features are designated with like or similar reference numerals. The construct formed from the blank 403 can be provided with one or more articles C as a package 410 (FIG. 11).

As shown in FIG. 10, the blank 403 can have a bottom attachment panel 421 that is generally similar to the attachment panel 121 described above, e.g., having the article engagement flaps 139, 141 foldably connected thereto, except that the attachment panel 421 additionally includes a plurality of corner portions or corner end flaps 423 foldably connected to a central portion 425 of the attachment panel 421 at respective curved fold lines 427 that intersect respective free edges of the attachment panel 421. As described further herein, the corner end flaps 423 can be moveable relative to the central portion 425 of the attachment panel 421.

The blank 403 additionally includes a front panel 424 foldably connected to the bottom attachment panel 421 at a lateral fold line 429, a top panel 431 foldably connected to the front panel 424 at a lateral fold line 433, a back panel 435 foldably connected to the top panel 431 at a lateral fold line 437, and a second bottom panel or bottom reinforcement panel 439 foldably connected to the back panel 435 at a lateral fold line 441.

As shown, the top panel 431 can include a central portion 443, a first laterally outer marginal portion 445 foldably connected to the central portion 443 at a curved fold line 447, and a second laterally outer marginal portion 449 foldably connected to the central portion 443 at a curved fold line 451.

Furthermore, the bottom reinforcement panel 439 can include a central opening 453 at least partially defined by a generally continuous flap engagement edge 455. The engagement edge 455 can be at least partially defined by a central portion 456 of the bottom reinforcement panel 439 to which a first end flap 457 is foldably connected at a curved fold line 459 and to which a second end flap 461 is foldably connected at a curved fold line 463.

The plurality of panels of the blank 403 can also include a first top attachment panel 465 (broadly, “first top panel”) foldably connected to the laterally outer marginal portion 445 of the top panel 431 at a curved fold line 467, and a second top attachment panel 469 (broadly, “first top panel”) foldably connected to the laterally outer marginal portion 449 of the top panel 431 at a curved fold line 471.

The first top attachment panel 465, as shown, can include a base portion 473 foldably connected to the laterally outer marginal portion 445 of the top panel 431 at the curved fold line 467, and a distal portion 475 foldably connected to the base portion 473 at a longitudinal fold line 477. The distal portion 475 of the top attachment panel 465 can include a pair of the corner end flaps 423 at a laterally outer portion thereof.

Similarly, the second top attachment flap 469 can include a base portion 479 foldably connected to the laterally outer marginal portion 449 of the top panel 431 at the curved fold line 471, and a distal portion 481 foldably connected to the base portion 479 at a longitudinal fold line 483, with the distal portion 481 having a pair of the corner end flaps 423 at a laterally outer portion thereof.

The plurality of panels of the blank 403 and the construct formed therefrom can also include a first divider panel or front divider panel 485 (broadly, “first central panel”) foldably connected to the front panel 424 at a longitudinal fold line 487 interrupting a respective pair of cuts 489, 491 having one or more of straight, curved, and/or angled portions and separating respective portions of the front panel 424 from respective portions of the divider panel 485.

Similarly, a second divider panel or back divider panel 493 (broadly, “second central panel”) can be foldably connected to the back panel 435 at a longitudinal fold line 495 that interrupts a pair of cuts 497, 499 having one or more of straight, curved, and/or angled portions and separating respective portions of the back panel 435 from respective portions of the divider panel 493.

In addition to the article engagement flaps 139, 141, attachment features of the blank 403 and construct formed therefrom can include one or more of the corner end flaps 423, the top end panel 431 and associated features, the top attachment panel 465 and associated features, the top attachment panel 469 and associated features, and the bottom reinforcement panel 439 and associated features.

Moreover, divider features of the blank 403 and construct formed therefrom can include one or both of the divider panels 485, 493.

The construct 405 and package 410 formed from the blank 403 provides advantages similar to those described above with respect to the constructs 105, 205, 305 and packages 110, 210, 310, with divider features of the construct/package formed from the blank 403 additionally providing at least partial separation between articles C in the interior thereof.

With additional reference to FIGS. 11 and 12, the construct 405 can be formed from the blank 403 in a manner similar to that described above with regard to the constructs 105, 205, 305, and can be provided with one or more of the articles C to form the package 410.

According to some exemplary embodiments, the plurality of panels of the blank 403 can be folded and positioned such that the top panel 431 is positioned in spaced and generally parallel relation with the bottom panel 421, the front panel 424 and the back panel 435 are positioned in spaced and generally parallel relation and extending from the top panel 431 to the bottom panel 421, with the panels 424, 425 arranged in generally perpendicular relation to the panels 431, 421. In such an arrangement, the plurality of panels of the blank 403/construct 405 can extend at least partially around an interior 407 of the construct 405. In this regard, the attachment panel 421 is positioned adjacent the interior 407 of the construct 405.

One or both of the articles C can be positioned at least partially in the interior 407 of the construct 405 formed from the blank 403, and the article engagement flaps 139, 141 can be engaged with the bottom recessed portions B of the respective articles C in the manner described above.

Furthermore, the marginal portions 445, 449 of the top panel 431 can be at least partially folded at the respective fold lines 447, 451 to extend obliquely downwardly from the central portion 443 of the top panel 431 into the top recessed portion T of one of the articles C. The base portion 473 of the top attachment panel 465 can be at least partially folded at the fold line 467 to extend obliquely further into the recessed top portion T, and with the distal portion 475 of the top attachment panel 465 arranged in generally planar relation with a surface of the recessed top portion T. In such an arrangement, one or more free edges of the top attachment panel 465 can engage a respective interior surface of the upper rim R1 of the article C, and one or both of the corner end flaps 423 can at least partially fold at the respective fold lines 427 to be positioned in an oblique or parallel arrangement with a respective corner portion of the upper rim R1.

Similarly, the marginal portion 449 of the top panel 431 can be at least partially folded at the fold line 451 to extend obliquely into the top recessed portion T of the other of the articles C, with the base portion 479 of the top attachment panel 469 at least partially folded at the fold line 471 to extend obliquely further into the recessed top portion T, and with the distal portion 481 of the top attachment panel 469 arranged in generally planar relation with a surface of the recessed top portion T. In such an arrangement, one or more free edges of the top attachment panel 469 can engage a respective interior surface of the upper rim R1 of the respective article C, and one or both of the corner end flaps 423 can at least partially fold at the respective fold lines 427 to be positioned in an oblique or parallel arrangement with a respective corner portion of the respective upper rim R1.

Such edge-to-edge and/or surface-to-surface engagement of respective portions of the top attachment panels 465, 469 and respective portions of the top portions T of the respective articles C can contribute toward maintaining a locked/attached and secure engagement of the construct and the articles C.

In some embodiments, the bottom reinforcement panel 439 can be folded at the fold line 441 and positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the bottom attachment panel 421. Optionally, the bottom reinforcement panel 439 can be positioned between the bottom attachment panel 421 and the panels 424, 523, 485, 493, or the bottom reinforcement panel 439 can be positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with an exterior surface of the bottom panel 421. In some embodiments, the central opening 453 of the bottom reinforcement panel 439 can be at least partially aligned with the article engagement flaps 139, 141, e.g., such that the article engagement edge 455 of the bottom reinforcement panel 439 is at least partially aligned with the curved fold lines 143, 145 and one or more free edges of the article engagement flaps 139, 141. Such positioning of the bottom reinforcement panel 439 can contribute toward maintaining a locked/attached and secure engagement of the construct and the articles C

In order to provide divider features between the plurality of articles C in the interior 407 of the construct 405 formed from the blank 403, the divider panel 485 can be at least partially separated from the front panel 424 at the respective cuts 489, 491 and at least partially folded at the fold line 487 into the interior 407 of the construct 405 between the articles C. Similarly, the divider panel 493 can be at least partially separated from the back panel 435 at the respective cuts 497, 499 and at least partially folded at the fold line 495 into the interior 407 of the construct between the articles C. In such an arrangement, the divider panels 485, 493 can be positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact. It will be understood that the blank 403 and construct 405 formed therefrom can have a different arrangement and/or configuration of divider features without departing from the disclosure. For example, in some embodiments, the blank 403 and construct 405 formed therefrom can include only one of the divider panels 485, 493.

Turning to FIG. 13, a plan view of an exterior surface 501 of a blank 503 for forming a construct 505 (FIG. 14) according to a fifth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure is illustrated. The blank 503 and construct 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 constructs 105, 205, 305, 405 described above and like or similar features are designated with like or similar reference numerals. The construct 505 formed from the blank 503 can be provided with one or more articles C as a package 510 (FIG. 14).

As shown in FIG. 13, the blank 503 can have top attachment panels 465, 469 generally similar to those described above. A first central panel 521 and a second central panel 523 can be foldably connected to the top attachment panels 465, 469 at the respective curved fold lines 467, 471.

Each central panel 521, 523 can include a respective upper portion 529 foldably connected to the respective top attachment panel 465, 469 at the respective fold line 467, 471, and a respective lower potion 531 foldably connected to the respective upper portion 529 at a respective longitudinal fold line 533. Each upper portion 529, as shown, can be configured for at least partial reconfiguration via a plurality of curved fold lines 535, 537 extending therealong. The lower portions 531 of the respective back panels 521, 523 can be at least partially foldably connected at a respective lateral fold line 524.

The blank 503 can also include a respective pair of bottom attachment panels 541, 543 foldably connected to the respective lower portion 531 of the respective panels 521, 523 at respective longitudinal fold lines 545, 547. The bottom attachment panels 541, 543 can be generally similar to the top attachment panels 465, 469, except that a respective article engagement flap 139, 141 is foldably connected to the respective bottom attachment panels 541, 543 at the respective curved fold lines 143, 145.

In this regard, the article engagement features of the blank 503 and the construct 505 formed therefrom can include one or more of the article engagement flaps 139, 141 and associated features, the top attachment panels 465, 469 and associated features, and the bottom attachment panels 541, 543 and associated features.

The construct 505 can be formed from the blank 503 in a manner similar to that described above with regard to the constructs 105, 205, 305, 405 and can be provided with one or more of the articles C to form the package 510.

According to some exemplary embodiments, the plurality of panels of the blank 503 can be folded and positioned such that the top attachment panels 465, 469 are positioned in spaced and generally parallel relation with the bottom attachment panels 541, 543, with the panels 521, 523 positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact and extending from the respective top attachment panels 465, 469 to the respective bottom attachment panels 541, 543 such that the plurality of panels of the blank 503 and construct 505 formed therefrom extend at least partially around an interior 507 of the construct 505.

In the illustrated arrangement, one or both of the respective upper portions 529 of the back panels 521, 523 can be at least partially reconfigured, e.g., by having one or more portions at least partially folded relative to a respective adjacent portion at a respective curved fold line 535, 537, to facilitate a contoured or otherwise curved profile along a portion thereof. In the aforementioned arrangement, the front, side, and rear portions of the respective articles C are generally unobstructed by portions of the construct 505 between the top attachment panels 465, 469 and bottom attachment panels 541, 543, e.g., so as to enhance visibility for potential customers.

The top attachment panels 465, 469 can engage the recessed top portions T of the respective articles C in the manner described above with respect to the construct 305/package 310, and the article engagement flaps 139, 141 can engage the recessed bottom portions B of the respective articles C in the manner described above with respect to the constructs 105, 205, 305, 405 and packages 110, 210, 310, 410. The construct 505 and package 510 formed from the blank 503 thus provides advantages similar to those described above with respect to the constructs 105, 205, 305, 405 and packages 110, 210, 310, 410.

Turning to FIG. 16, a plan view of an exterior surface 601 of a blank 603 for forming a construct 605 (FIG. 17) according to a sixth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure is illustrated. The blank 603 and construct 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 constructs 105, 205, 305, 405, 505 and like or similar features are designated with like or similar reference numerals. The construct 605 formed from the blank 603 can be provided with one or more articles C as a package 610 (FIG. 17).

As shown in FIG. 16, the blank 603 can have the general form of the bottom attachment panel 421 as described above.

With additional reference to FIGS. 17 and 18, in order to form the construct 605 and package 610 from the blank 603, the bottom attachment panel 421 can be engaged with one or both of the articles C in the manner described above. Such engagement of the attachment panel 421 with the articles C can, for example, attach both articles C to one another as well as provide a protective barrier along the bottom portion B of the articles C, for example, to minimize, inhibit, prevent, and/or otherwise avoid contact with dirt or debris or scratching/deformation of the articles C. In some embodiments, the construct 605 can provide a surface for additional display of product or packaging information, e.g., printed graphics.

It will be understood that, in some embodiments, the construct 605 can be engaged with the recessed top portions T of the respective articles C in a manner similar to that described above with respect to the engagement of the construct 605 with the recessed bottom portions B of the articles C.

The construct 605 and package 610 formed from the blank 603 provides advantages similar to those described above with respect to the constructs 105, 205, 305, 405, 505 and packages 110, 210, 310, 410, 510. In some embodiments, the construct 605 formed from the blank 603 can be provided in conjunction with another construct or packaging.

Turning to FIG. 19, a plan view of an exterior surface 701 of a blank 703 for forming a construct 705 (FIG. 20) according to a seventh exemplary embodiment of the disclosure is illustrated. The blank 703 and construct 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, 403, 503, 603 and constructs 105, 205, 305, 405, 505, 605 and like or similar features are designated with like or similar reference numerals. The construct 705 formed from the blank 703 can be provided with one or more articles C as a package 710.

As shown in FIG. 19 the blank 703 can include a bottom attachment panel 121, a back panel 723 foldably connected to the bottom attachment panel 121 at a longitudinal fold line 725, a front panel 727 foldably connected to the bottom attachment panel 121 at a longitudinal fold line 729, a first side panel 731 foldably connected to the panel 727 at a lateral fold line 733 and having a plurality of reconfigurable portions 735 foldably connected to one another at respective lateral fold lines 737, and a second side panel 739 foldably connected to the panel 727 at a lateral fold line 741 and having a plurality of reconfigurable portions 743 foldably connected to one another at respective lateral fold lines 745.

The blank 703 and construct 705 formed therefrom can also include a plurality of end flaps foldably connected to a respective panel of the plurality of panels. In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 703 and construct 705 formed therefrom can include a first glue flap or first attachment flap 747 foldably connected to a respective portion 735 of the first side panel 731 at a lateral fold line 749, and a second glue flap or second attachment flap 751 foldably connected to a respective portion 743 of the side panel 739 at a lateral fold line 753.

Furthermore, a pair of attachment end flaps 755, 757 can be foldably connected to the bottom attachment panel 121 at respective curved fold lines 759, 761. As shown, the attachment end flap 755 can include a base portion 763 foldably connected to the attachment panel 121 at the fold line 759, and a distal portion 765 foldably connected to the base portion 763 at a lateral fold line 767.

Similarly, the attachment end flap 757 can include a base portion 769 foldably connected to the attachment panel 121 at the fold line 761, and a distal portion 771 foldably connected to the base portion 769 at a lateral fold line 773.

In some embodiments, the bottom attachment panel 121 and one or both of the attachment end flaps 755, 757 can be at least partially bisected by a line of weakening, for example, to facilitate folding of the blank 703 and/or the construct 705 formed therefrom into a collapsed or flattened configuration, e.g., for shipping, storage, etc.

With additional reference to FIGS. 20 and 21, the blank 703 can be formed into the construct 705/package 710 by positioning the articles C on the bottom attachment panel 121, folding the panels 723, 727 at the respective fold lines 725, 729 to be generally upright to the attachment panel 121, folding the side end flaps 755, 757 at the respective fold lines 759, 761 to be generally upright to the attachment panel 121, and at least partially curving/reconfiguring the side panels 731, 739 around the articles C so as to extend from the panel 723 to the panel 727 and such that the articles C are at least partially positioned in the interior 707 of the construct 705.

Such reconfiguration of the side panels 731, 739 can include relative folding of one or more reconfigurable portion 735, 743 relative to a respective adjacent reconfigurable portion 735, 743 at a respective fold line 737, 745. The attachment flaps 747, 751 can be at least partially overlapped, e.g., in at least partial face-to-face contact, with respective portions of the panel 723 to maintain an erected configuration of the construct 705.

The article engagement flaps 139, 141 can be engaged with the respective articles C as described above to form a secure engagement of the construct 705 to the articles C.

Furthermore, the attachment end flap 755 can be at least partially folded at the fold line 759 such that the base portion 763 extends obliquely downwardly from the attachment panel 121 into the recessed bottom B of a respective article C, and the distal portion 765 can be at least partially folded at the fold line 767 into a generally planar arrangement with respect to the recessed bottom B.

Similarly, the attachment end flap 757 can be at least partially folded at the fold line 761 such that the base portion 769 extends obliquely downwardly from the attachment panel 121 into the recessed bottom B of a respective article C, and the distal portion 771 can be at least partially folded at the fold line 773 into a generally plana arrangement with respect to the recessed bottom B.

Such arrangement of the attachment end flaps 755, 757 can be such that one or more free edges of the respective end flaps 755, 757 are positioned in engagement with an interior surface of the lower rim R2 of the respective article C, e.g., so as to maintain a bracing engagement therewith.

In this regard, the construct 705/package 710 can provide advantages similar to those described above with respect to the constructs 105, 205, 305, 405, 505, 605 and packages 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610.

Turning to FIG. 22, a plan view of an exterior surface 801 of a blank 803 for forming a construct 805 (FIG. 23) according to an eighth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure is illustrated. The blank 803 and construct 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, 403, 503, 603, 703 and constructs 105, 205, 305, 405, 506, 605, 705, and like or similar features are designated with like or similar reference numerals. The construct 805 formed from the blank 803 can be provided with one or more articles C as a package 810 (FIG. 23).

As shown in FIG. 22, the blank 803 can be generally similar to the blank 703 as described above, except that intermediate panels 821, 823 are foldably connected to the respective side panels 731, 739 at respective lateral fold line 825, 827, and panels 521 are foldably connected to the respective intermediate panels 821, 823 at respective lateral fold lines 829, 831, with the top attachment panels 465, 469 foldably connected to the respective panels 521 as described above. Furthermore, the blank 803 and the construct 805 formed therefrom can be devoid of the attachment end flaps 755, 757, though one or both of the attachment end flaps 755, 757 could be provided without departing from the disclosure.

With additional reference to FIGS. 23 and 24, the blank 803 can be formed into the construct 805 and the package 810 as described above with respect to the formation of the construct 705 and package 710 from the blank 703, except that the intermediate panels 821, 823 can be positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the respective articles C prior to folding the panel 723 at the fold line 825 into at least partial face-to-face contact with the panels 521, 523, and with the central panels 531 folded at the respective fold lines 829, 831 to extend between the articles C as described above with respect to the construct 505 and the package 510.

The top attachment panels 465, 469 can engage the recessed top portions T of the respective articles C in the manner described above with respect to the constructs 305, 505 and packages 310, 510 and the article engagement flaps 139, 141 can engage the recessed bottom portions B of the respective articles C in the manner described above with respect to the constructs 105, 205, 305, 405, 505, 605, 705 and packages 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710. The construct 805 and package 810 formed from the blank 803 thus provides advantages similar to those described above with respect to the constructs 105, 205, 305, 405, 505, 605, 705 and packages 110, 210, 310, 410, 510, 610, 710.

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

In accordance with the above-described embodiments of the present disclosure, 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 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.

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 spaced apart slits to be replaced with a continuous slit, a continuous score, 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. Also, a tear line can be a series of cut scores passing completely, or partially, through the material, that are separated by nicks.

The term “glue” is intended to encompass all manner of adhesives commonly used to secure tray 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 construct for holding at least one article, the construct comprising: at least one panel positioned adjacent an interior of the construct; andattachment features for at least partially engaging one or more portions of the at least one article, the attachment features comprising at least one article engagement flap foldably connected to the at least one panel, the at least one article engagement flap for being positioned in a recessed portion of the at least one article.

2. The construct of claim 1, wherein the at least one article engagement flap comprises a base portion foldably connected to a distal portion, the base portion for extending obliquely away from the at least one panel.

3. The construct of claim 2, wherein the base portion of the at least one article engagement flap is foldably connected to the at least one panel.

4. The construct of claim 3, wherein the at least one article is a first article of a plurality of articles for being held by the construct, the at least one article engagement flap is a first article engagement flap foldably connected to the at least one panel, and the attachment features further comprise a second article engagement flap foldably connected to the at least one panel and for being positioned in a recessed portion of another article of the plurality of articles.

5. The construct of claim 2, wherein the at least one panel is at least one bottom attachment panel.

6. The construct of claim 5, wherein the construct further comprises at least one top panel.

7. The construct of claim 6, wherein the construct further comprises a front panel and a back panel each extending from the at least one top panel to the at least one bottom attachment panel.

8. The construct of claim 7, wherein the construct further comprises at least one central panel extending from the at least one bottom attachment panel to the at least one top panel.

9. The construct of claim 6, wherein the construct further comprises at least one central panel extending from the at least one bottom attachment panel to the at least one top panel.

10. The construct of claim 9, wherein the at least one top panel is an at least one top attachment panel for being at least partially received in a recessed portion of the at least one article.

11. The construct of claim 9, wherein the attachment features further comprise at least one top attachment panel foldably connected to the at least one top panel for being at least partially received in a recessed portion of the at least one article.

12. The construct of claim 5, wherein the construct further comprises a front panel, a back panel, and at least one side panel extending from the front panel to the back panel.

13. The construct of claim 12, wherein the construct further comprises at least one top panel and at least one central panel extending from the at least one top panel to the at least one bottom attachment panel.

14. The construct of claim 13, wherein the at least one top panel is an at least one top attachment panel for being at least partially received in a recessed portion of the at least one article.

15. A blank for forming a construct for holding at least one article, the blank comprising: at least one panel for being positioned adjacent an interior of the construct formed from the blank; andattachment features for at least partially engaging one or more portions of the at least one article when the construct is formed from the blank, the attachment features comprising at least one article engagement flap foldably connected to the at least one panel, the at least one article engagement flap for being positioned in a recessed portion of the at least one article when the construct is formed from the blank.

16. The blank of claim 15, wherein the at least one article engagement flap comprises a base portion foldably connected to a distal portion, the base portion for extending obliquely away from the at least one panel when the construct is formed from the blank.

17. The blank of claim 16, wherein the base portion of the at least one article engagement flap is foldably connected to the at least one panel.

18. The blank of claim 17, wherein the at least one article is a first article of a plurality of articles for being held by the construct formed from the blank, the at least one article engagement flap is a first article engagement flap foldably connected to the at least one panel, and the attachment features further comprise a second article engagement flap foldably connected to the at least one panel and for being positioned in a recessed portion of another article of the plurality of articles when the construct is formed from the blank.

19. The blank of claim 16, wherein the at least one panel is at least one bottom attachment panel.

20. The blank of claim 19, wherein the blank further comprises at least one top panel.

21. The blank of claim 20, wherein the blank further comprises a front panel and a back panel each extending from the at least one top panel to the at least one bottom attachment panel.

22. The blank of claim 21, wherein the blank further comprises at least one central panel extending from the at least one bottom attachment panel to the at least one top panel.

23. The blank of claim 20, wherein the blank further comprises at least one central panel extending from the at least one bottom attachment panel to the at least one top panel.

24. The blank of claim 23, wherein the at least one top panel is an at least one top attachment panel for being at least partially received in a recessed portion of the at least one article when the construct is formed from the blank.

25. The blank of claim 23, wherein the attachment features further comprise at least one top attachment panel foldably connected to the at least one top panel for being at least partially received in a recessed portion of the at least one article when the construct is formed from the blank.

26. The blank of claim 19, wherein the blank further comprises a front panel, a back panel, and at least one side panel for extending from the front panel to the back panel when the construct is formed from the blank.

27. The blank of claim 26, wherein the blank further comprises at least one top panel and at least one central panel extending from the at least one top panel to the at least one bottom attachment panel.

28. The blank of claim 27, wherein the at least one top panel is an at least one top attachment panel for being at least partially received in a recessed portion of the at least one article when the construct is formed from the blank.

29. A method of forming a construct for holding at least one article, the method comprising: obtaining a blank comprising at least one panel and attachment features comprising at least one article engagement flap foldably connected to the at least one panel; andpositioning the at least one panel adjacent an interior of the construct such that the at least one article engagement flap is arranged for being positioned in a recessed portion of the at least one article.

30. The method of claim 29, wherein the at least one article engagement flap comprises a base portion foldably connected to a distal portion, and the method further comprises positioning the base portion extending obliquely away from the at least one panel.

31. The method of claim 30, wherein the base portion of the at least one article engagement flap is foldably connected to the at least one panel.

32. The method of claim 31, wherein the at least one article is a first article of a plurality of articles for being held by the construct, the at least one article engagement flap is a first article engagement flap foldably connected to the at least one panel, and the attachment features further comprise a second article engagement flap foldably connected to the at least one panel and for being positioned in a recessed portion of another article of the plurality of articles.

33. The method of claim 30, wherein the at least one panel is at least one bottom attachment panel.

34. The method of claim 33, wherein the blank further comprises at least one top panel.

35. The method of claim 34, wherein the blank further comprises a front panel and a back panel each extending from the at least one top panel to the at least one bottom attachment panel.

36. The method of claim 35, wherein the blank further comprises at least one central panel extending from the at least one bottom attachment panel to the at least one top panel.

37. The method of claim 34, wherein the blank further comprises at least one central panel extending from the at least one bottom attachment panel to the at least one top panel.

38. The method of claim 37, wherein the at least one top panel is an at least one top attachment panel, and the method further comprises positioning the at least one top attachment panel for being at least partially received in a recessed portion of the at least one article.

39. The method of claim 37, wherein the attachment features further comprise at least one top attachment panel foldably connected to the at least one top panel, and the method further comprises positioning the at least one top attachment panel for being at least partially received in a recessed portion of the at least one article.

40. The method of claim 33, wherein the blank further comprises a front panel, a back panel, and at least one side panel extending from the front panel to the back panel.

41. The method of claim 40, wherein the blank further comprises at least one top panel and at least one central panel extending from the at least one top panel to the at least one bottom attachment panel.

42. The method of claim 41, wherein the at least one top panel is an at least one top attachment panel, and the method further comprises positioning the at least one top attachment panel for being at least partially received in a recessed portion of the at least one article.

43. A package, the package comprising: at least one article; anda construct holding the at least one article, the construct comprising: at least one panel positioned adjacent an interior of the construct; andattachment features at least partially engaging one or more portions of the at least one article, the attachment features comprising at least one article engagement flap foldably connected to the at least one panel, the at least one article engagement flap being positioned in a recessed portion of the at least one article.

44. The package of claim 43, wherein the at least one article engagement flap comprises a base portion foldably connected to a distal portion, the base portion for extending obliquely away from the at least one panel.

45. The package of claim 44, wherein the base portion of the at least one article engagement flap is foldably connected to the at least one panel.

46. The package of claim 45, wherein the at least one article is a first article of a plurality of articles held by the construct, the at least one article engagement flap is a first article engagement flap foldably connected to the at least one panel, and the attachment features further comprise a second article engagement flap foldably connected to the at least one panel and positioned in a recessed portion of another article of the plurality of articles.

47. The package of claim 44, wherein the at least one panel is at least one bottom attachment panel.

48. The package of claim 47, wherein the construct further comprises at least one top panel.

49. The package of claim 48, wherein the construct further comprises a front panel and a back panel each extending from the at least one top panel to the at least one bottom attachment panel.

50. The package of claim 49, wherein the construct further comprises at least one central panel extending from the at least one bottom attachment panel to the at least one top panel.

51. The package of claim 48, wherein the construct further comprises at least one central panel extending from the at least one bottom attachment panel to the at least one top panel.

52. The package of claim 51, wherein the at least one top panel is an at least one top attachment panel at least partially received in a recessed portion of the at least one article.

53. The package of claim 51, wherein the attachment features further comprise at least one top attachment panel foldably connected to the at least one top panel and at least partially received in a recessed portion of the at least one article.

54. The package of claim 47, wherein the construct further comprises a front panel, a back panel, and at least one side panel extending from the front panel to the back panel.

55. The package of claim 54, wherein the construct further comprises at least one top panel and at least one central panel extending from the at least one top panel to the at least one bottom attachment panel.

56. The package of claim 55, wherein the at least one top panel is an at least one top attachment panel at least partially received in a recessed portion of the at least one article.