ARTICLE ENGAGING STRUCTURE, ARTICLE CARRIER, AND BLANK FOR FORMING THE SAME

Aspects of the disclosure relate to an article engaging device (390; 490; 590), an article carrier (90; 190) for packaging one or more articles and to a blank (10; 110; 210; 310; 410; 510) for forming the device or carrier. The device or carrier comprises a main panel (12; 112; 212; 312; 412; 512) including an article retention structure (RT; RT1, RT2) having an article receiving opening defined in part by a plurality of engaging teeth (40a, 40b, 40c, 40d, 40e; 140b, 140c, 140e; 240b, 246, 250; 340a, 340c, 340e; 440a, 440c, 440e; 540a, 540e, 540f). The article retention structures (RT; RT1, RT2) comprise a cover panel (14; 114; 214; 314; 414; 514) coupled to the main panel (12; 112; 212; 312; 412; 512) by at least one, two or more bridging strips (42; 142; 242; 342; 442; 542). Each bridging strip (42; 142; 242; 342; 442; 542) extends from an engaging or connecting tooth (40c, 40d; 140c; 240c; 340c; 440c; 540e) and is directly connected to the cover panel (14; 114; 214; 314; 414; 514).

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to article engaging structures, article carriers and blanks for forming the same. More specifically, but not exclusively, the invention relates to a carrier of the top-gripping type having one or more apertures for receiving and retaining an article therein.

BACKGROUND

In the field of packaging, it is known to provide cartons for carrying multiple articles. Cartons are well known in the art and are useful for enabling consumers to transport, store and access a group of articles for consumption. For cost and environmental considerations, such cartons or carriers need to be formed from as little material as possible and cause as little wastage in the materials from which they are formed as possible. Further considerations are the strength of the carton and its suitability for holding and transporting large weights of articles. It is desirable that the contents of the carton are secure within the carton.

It is well known to provide top gripping article carriers in which an aperture is formed in a panel of the carrier, wherein tabs are struck from said panel and are arranged about the aperture. The tabs are displaced out of the plane of said panel when an article is received in the aperture, wherein said tabs engage the article generally about a flange or lip of the article.

It is desirable to provide a cover to protect an upper end of the article or to provide a display panel for display of information.

The present invention seeks to provide an improvement in the field of packaging, of cartons, typically formed from paperboard or the like, and apparatus for assembly of said cartons.

SUMMARY

A first aspect of the invention provides an article engaging carrier for packaging at least one article. The carrier comprises a main panel having at least one article retention structure for engaging an article. The article retention structure has an article receiving opening defined in part by a plurality of engaging teeth and comprises a cover panel coupled to the main panel by at least one bridging strip. Each bridging strip extends from an engaging tooth and is directly connected to the cover panel.

Optionally, the article carrier comprises a stopper tab nested within at least a portion of the bridging strip.

Optionally, the bridging strip is directly connected in part to the main panel.

Optionally, the bridging strip extends radially outward of a notional circle defined by a hinged connection between the plurality of engaging teeth and the main panel.

Optionally, the bridging strip is disposed within a notional circle defined by a hinged connection between the plurality of engaging teeth and the main panel.

Optionally, the article carrier comprises at least one pair of diametrically opposed bridging strips.

A second aspect of the invention provides an article engaging carrier for packaging at least one article. The carrier comprises a main panel having at least two article retention structures for engaging an article. Each article retention structure has an article receiving opening defined in part by a plurality of engaging teeth and comprises a cover panel coupled to the main panel by at least one bridging strip. Each bridging strip extends from an engaging tooth and is directly connected to a respective cover panel. A bridging strip of a first one of the at least two article retention structures is disposed back-to-back with a bridging strip of a second one of the at least two article retention structures.

A third aspect of the invention provides an article engaging carrier for packaging at least one article. The carrier comprises a main panel having at least two article retention structures for engaging an article. Each article retention structure has an article receiving opening defined in part by a plurality of engaging teeth and comprises a cover panel coupled to the main panel by at least one bridging strip. Each bridging strip extends from an engaging tooth and is directly connected to a respective cover panel. The cover panel of a first one of the at least two article retention structures comprises a first stopper tab extending radially therefrom and the cover panel of a second one of the at least two article retention structures comprises a second stopper tab extending radially therefrom. The second stopper tab is disposed back-to-back with the first stopper tab.

A fourth aspect of the invention provides an article engaging carrier for packaging at least one article. The carrier comprises a main panel having at least one article retention structure for engaging an article. The article retention structure has a cover panel including at least one stopper tab for resting on an article rim and extending radially outward from the cover panel. The at least one stopper tab has an outer free end which is defined by a first end section of a first arcuate slit. The outer free end is adjoined by a bridging strip and is separated therefrom by the first end section.

A fifth aspect of the invention provides an article engaging carrier for packaging at least one article. The carrier comprises a main panel having at least one article retention structure for engaging an article. The article retention structure has a cover panel including at least one stopper tab having an outer free end defined by a first end section of a first arcuate slit. The outer free end is radially spaced apart from a second end section of a second opposing arcuate slit such that a bridging strip is defined between the first end section and the second end section.

A sixth aspect of the invention provides an article engaging carrier for packaging at least one article. The carrier comprises a main having a top engaging device comprising a pair of opposing, generally, arcuate slits. A first end section of the first slit is disposed at a position radially inside of a second end section of the second slit and a second end section of the first slit is disposed at a position radially outside of a first end section of the second slit.

A seventh aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a main panel having at least one article retention structure for engaging an article. The article retention structure has an article receiving opening defined in part by a plurality of engaging teeth and comprises a cover panel coupled to the main panel by at least one bridging strip. Each bridging strip extends from an engaging tooth and is directly connected to the cover panel.

An eighth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a main panel having at least two article retention structures for engaging an article. Each article retention structure has an article receiving opening defined in part by a plurality of engaging teeth and comprises a cover panel coupled to the main panel by at least one bridging strip. Each bridging strip extends from an engaging tooth and is directly connected to the cover panel. A bridging strip of a first one of the at least two article retention structures is disposed back-to-back with a bridging strip of a second one of the at least two article retention structures.

A ninth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a main panel having at least two article retention structures for engaging an article. Each article retention structure has an article receiving opening defined in part by a plurality of engaging teeth and comprises a cover panel coupled to the main panel by at least one bridging strip. Each bridging strip extends from an engaging tooth and is directly connected to the cover panel. The cover panel of a first one of the at least two article retention structures comprises a first stopper tab extending radially therefrom and the cover panel of a second one of the at least two article retention structures comprises a second stopper tab extending radially therefrom, the second stopper tab being disposed back-to-back with the first stopper tab.

A tenth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a main panel having at least one article retention structure for engaging an article. The article retention structure has a cover panel including at least one stopper tab for resting on an article rim and extending radially outward from the cover panel. The at least one stopper tab has an outer free end which is defined by a first end section of a first arcuate slit. The outer free end is adjoined by a bridging strip and is separated therefrom by the first end section.

An eleventh aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a main panel having at least one article retention structure for engaging an article. The article retention structure has a cover panel including at least one stopper tab having an outer free end defined by a first end section of a first arcuate slit. The outer free end is radially spaced apart from a second end section of a second opposing arcuate slit such that a bridging strip is defined between the first end section and the second end section.

A twelfth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a main panel having a top engaging device comprising a pair of opposing, generally, arcuate slits. A first end section of the first slit is disposed at a position radially inside of a second end section of the second slit and a second end section of the first slit is disposed at a position radially outside of a first end section of the second slit.

Optionally, the at least one bridging strip has an inner end which is connected to the cover panel, and wherein the inner end is disposed within a notional circle defined by a hinged connection between the plurality of engaging teeth and the main panel.

Optionally, the inner end adjoins one of the engaging teeth when the article carrier is in a blank form.

Optionally, the at least one bridging strip has an outer end opposite to the inner end, wherein the at least one bridging strip is connected at the outer end to the at least one of the engaging teeth and wherein the inner end is disposed closer to a centre of the article receiving opening than the outer end.

A thirteenth aspect of the invention provides an article engaging device for engaging at least one article. The device comprises a main panel having at least one article engaging structure for engaging at least one article. The at least one article engaging structure has an article receiving opening defined in part by a plurality of engaging teeth and comprises a cover panel coupled to the main panel by at least one bridging strip. The at least one bridging strip extends from at least one of the engaging teeth and is directly connected to the cover panel.

Optionally, the device forms a carrier for carrying at least one article.

Optionally, the device forms a tag wherein the at least one article engaging structure forms a cap for at least partially closing an orifice of an article.

Optionally, the cap is detachably mounted to the main panel such that upon detachment of the cap, the remainder of the main panel provides a collar surrounding the orifice of the article.

A fourteenth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming a device for engaging at least one article. The device comprises a main panel having at least one article engaging structure for engaging an article. The at least one article engaging structure has an article receiving opening defined in part by a plurality of engaging teeth and comprises a cover panel coupled to the main panel by at least one bridging strip. The at least one bridging strip extends from at least one of the engaging teeth and is directly connected to the cover panel.

A fifteenth aspect of the invention provides a dust cap for protecting a port of an article. The dust cap comprises a main panel having at least one article engaging structure for engaging the port. The at least one article engaging structure has an article receiving opening defined in part by a plurality of engaging teeth and comprises a cover panel coupled to the main panel by at least one bridging strip. The at least one bridging strip extends from at least one of the engaging teeth and is directly connected to the cover panel.

Optionally, the article is a keg for a beverage.

A sixteenth aspect of the invention provides an article engaging device for engaging at least one article. The article engaging device comprises a main panel having an engaging structure. The engaging structure comprises a top-receiving opening, defined in part by a plurality of engaging teeth disposed partially around the top-receiving opening, and a cover panel, struck from the main panel to define the top-receiving opening, at least in part. The engaging structure comprises at least a pair of first and second non-linear slits each comprising first and second opposite end sections and an intermediate section. The first end section of the first slit is disposed at a position radially inside of the second end section of the second slit (that is to say the first end section of the first slit is closer to the centre of the top-receiving opening than the second end section of the second slit). The intermediate section of each of the first and second non-linear slits defines a radially inner end of at least one of the engaging teeth.

Optionally, the first and intermediate sections of each of the first and second non-linear slits define part of the cover panel.

Optionally, an inner end of at least one of the engaging teeth is a free end edge distal from a hinged connection to the main panel.

Optionally, the first end section of the first slit and the second end section of the second slit extend alongside one another to define a bridging strip therebetween for connecting between the cover panel and one of the main panel and one of the engaging teeth.

Optionally, at least part of the bridging strip extends generally circumferentially with respect to the top-receiving opening.

Optionally, the at least one of the engaging teeth has a side edge defined by a radial cut extending radially with respect to the top-receiving opening, and wherein the radial cut extends from the intermediate section of a respective one of the first and second non-linear slits.

Optionally, the first non-linear slit comprises a branch section extending from the first end section of the first non-linear slit, at least part of the branch section being disposed at a position radially outside of the second end section of the second slit and extending therealongside.

Optionally, the cover panel comprises at least one stopper tab for resting on an article rim, the at least one stopper tab extending radially outward from the cover panel and being defined at least in part by the first end section of the first non-linear slit.

Optionally, the bridging strip comprises a first circumferential section defining a portion of the cover panel, and a second circumferential section disposed adjacent to the first circumferential section.

Optionally, the bridging strip comprises a radial section coupling the second circumferential section to the first circumferential section.

Optionally, the bridging strip comprises a recess for engaging a portion of an article.

Optionally, the bridging strip comprises a recess for receiving a radially projecting portion of an article.

Optionally, the recess is defined, at least in part, by the stopper tab.

Optionally, the recess is separated from the stopper tab by a portion of the first end section of a respective one of the first and second slit.

Further features and advantages of the present invention will be apparent from the specific embodiments illustrated in the drawings and discussed below.

Within the scope of this application, it is envisaged or intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings may be considered or taken independently or in any combination thereof.

Features or elements described in connection with, or relation to, one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments unless there is an incompatibility of features. One or more features or elements from one embodiment may be incorporated into, or combined with, any of the other embodiments disclosed herein, said features or elements extracted from said one embodiment may be included in addition to, or in replacement of one or more features or elements of said other embodiment.

A feature, or combination of features, of an embodiment disclosed herein may be extracted in isolation from other features of that embodiment. Alternatively, a feature, or combination of features, of an embodiment may be omitted from that embodiment.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of engaging structures, packages, blanks, and carriers are disclosed herein. It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the way in which certain aspects of the invention can be implemented and do not represent an exhaustive list of all of the ways the invention may be embodied. As used herein, the word “exemplary” is used expansively to refer to embodiments that serve as illustrations, specimens, models, or patterns. Indeed, it will be understood that the engaging structures, packages, blanks, and carriers described herein may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The Figures are not necessarily to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minimised to show details of particular components. Well-known components, materials or methods are not necessarily described in great detail in order to avoid obscuring the present disclosure. Any specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the invention.

Referring toFIG.1, there is shown a plan view of a blank10which is capable of forming a carton or carrier90, as shown inFIG.2, for containing and carrying a group of primary products such as, but not limited to, bottles or cans, hereinafter referred to as articles B, as shown inFIG.2. The articles B may be generally cylindrical; the articles B may comprise a circular cross-sectional shape, at least about a region of engagement with the carrier90. The blank10forms a secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package. Alternative blanks110;210are shown inFIGS.4and6for forming an alternative cartons or carriers190.

In the embodiments detailed herein, the terms “carton” and “carrier” refer, for the non-limiting purpose of illustrating the various features of the invention, to a container for engaging and/or carrying articles, such as primary product containers. It is contemplated that the teachings of the invention can be applied to various product containers, which may or may not be tapered and/or cylindrical. Exemplary containers include bottles (for example metallic, glass or plastics bottles), cans (for example aluminium cans), tins, pouches, packets, and the like.

The blanks10;110;210;310;410;510are formed from a sheet of suitable substrate. It is to be understood that, as used herein, the term “suitable substrate” includes all manner of foldable sheet material such as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, and the like. It should be recognised that one or other numbers of blanks may be employed, where suitable, for example, to provide the carrier structure described in more detail below.

The packaging structures or cartons described herein may be formed from a sheet material such as paperboard, which may be made of or coated with materials to increase its strength. An example of such a sheet material is tear resistant NATRALOCK® paperboard made by WestRock Company. It should be noted that the tear resistant materials may be provided by more than one layer, to help improve the tear-resistance of the package. Typically, one surface of the sheet material may have different characteristics to the other surface. For example, the surface of the sheet material that faces outwardly from a finished package may be particularly smooth and may have a coating such as a clay coating or other surface treatment to provide good printability. The surface of the sheet material that faces inwardly may, on the other hand, be provided with a coating, a layer, a treatment or be otherwise prepared to provide properties such as one or more of tear-resistance, good glue-ability, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties.

In the illustrated embodiments, the blanks10;110;210are configured to form a carton or carrier90;190for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles B. In the illustrated embodiment ofFIGS.1to3, the arrangement is a 2×2 matrix or array-two rows of two articles B are provided—and the articles B are beverage cans. In the illustrated embodiments ofFIGS.4to6, the arrangement is a 2×4 matrix or array-two rows of four articles B are provided—and the articles B are beverage cans of a sleek or slim design. Alternatively, the blanks10;110;210can be configured to form a carrier for packaging other types, number, and size of articles and/or for packaging articles in a different arrangement or configuration. The blanks310;410;510are configured to form a package or device390;490;590with a single article B in the form of a barrel or keg such as, but not limited to, the type of barrel or keg used in the brewing industry.

In the embodiments illustrated inFIGS.4to6the blanks110;210are configured to accommodate beverage cans of the sleek or slim design that may be 330 ml cans. The articles B are substantially of the same diameter over their entire height. An exemplary article B has a maximum diameter or lateral dimension (the diameter may be about 2.25 inches or about 58 mm). The article B comprises an upper portion or top closure which has a diameter or lateral dimension (the diameter may be about 2.125 inches or 54.8 mm).

The neck may provide an outwardly projecting flange, that is to say it may comprise an undercut for engaging with the carrier. A top closure may be attached to the side wall of the article B to form a seam or “chime” which provides the flange. In some embodiments the variation in diameter between the top closure and the main body of the article B is less than 7 mm, may be less than 5 mm and optionally is less than 4 mm.

As used herein the terms “sleek” or “slim” refer to articles B which have little or no variation in their lateral dimension between the top closure which engages with the carrier90;190and the main body of the article B. The articles B are substantially parallel sided or of substantially uniform diameter.

Referring toFIG.1there is shown a blank10comprising a main or engaging panel12for forming a top wall or an engaging panel of a carrier90(seeFIG.2).

The main panel12includes at least one article retention structure RT, also referred to herein as an article engagement structure. In the illustrated embodiment, the main panel12comprises a plurality of article retention structures RT specifically four article retention structures arranged in 2×2 matrix or array. The main panel12comprises two columns of article retention structures RT, each column comprises two article retention structures RT. The main panel12comprises two rows of article retention structures RT, each row comprises two article retention structures RT. Each of the article retention structures RT forms an opening for receiving a portion of an article B.

Each of the first article retention structures RT is substantially similar in construction and will therefore be described in detail with reference to one of the first article retention structures RT located adjacent to a first end of the blank10as shown inFIG.1.

The article retention structure RT comprises an article receiving opening defined in part by a cover panel14.

The article retention structure RT comprises a plurality of engaging teeth40a,40b,40c,40d,40edisposed about the cover panel14and defining a perimeter of the article receiving opening.

The plurality of teeth40a,40b,40c,40d,40eare hinged to the main panel12by a fold line. The fold line may be defined by a plurality of cut lines43,45. The plurality of cut lines43,45may define or approximate a circle or part thereof.

The article retention structure RT may comprise a plurality of first full teeth40aand a plurality of second full teeth40bdisposed about the cover panel14. Each first tooth40aand second tooth40bcomprises an engaging edge E1opposing a hinged edge. The engaging edges E1are defined by a linear portion of a cut line defining the cover panel14. Each engaging edge E1defines a part of a polygon such as but not limited to a hexadecagon. In some embodiments, the cut line defining the cover panel14may be arcuate, at least in part, in shape. Each full tooth40a,40bcomprises a pair of side edges, the side edges are defined by cut lines41extending radially outward from respective vertices of the polygon. That is to say from a respective vertex between a pair of adjacent linear portions of the cut line defining the cover panel14. The cut lines41are divergently arranged with respect to each other and define an angle therebetween, the angle may be about 22.5°.

The article retention structure RT may comprise a plurality of first circumferential cut lines43. Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines43is aligned with one of the radial cut lines41such that said one of the radial cut lines41or a notional extension thereof bisects a respective one of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines43.

The first full teeth40amay comprise a pair of first circumferential cut lines43that intersect with the respective radial cut line41bisecting it such that said first tooth40ais separated from its adjacent neighbours.

The second full teeth40bmay comprise at least one first circumferential cut line43that is spaced apart from a respective radial cut line41bisecting it so as to define a connecting nick or bridge portion N between a pair of adjacently disposed teeth40a,40b,40c,40d,40e.

Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines43may be linear in shape. Alternatively, each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines43may be non-linear or arcuate in shape.

The article retention structure RT may comprise a plurality of second circumferential cut lines45. Each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines45is disposed between a pair of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines43and is spaced apart therefrom so as to define a pair of connecting nick or bridge portions between a tooth40a,40c,40d,40eand the main panel12. The pair of connecting nick or bridge portions provide a hinged or foldable connection between each tooth40a,40b,40cand the main panel12. The second circumferential cut lines45are omitted from the second full teeth40b, which are generally disposed towards or in inner, or central, regions of the main panel12. The first full teeth40aare generally disposed in outer or marginal regions of the main panel12.

Each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines45may be linear in shape. Alternatively, each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines45may be non-linear or arcuate in shape.

The article retention structure RT comprises at least one, two or more connecting teeth40c,40d. The illustrated embodiment comprises a pair of connecting teeth40c,40d, each is coupled or connected to a bridging or connecting portion42. In the illustrated embodiment, a first or proximal end of the bridging or connecting portion42is coupled in part to a connecting tooth40c,40dand in part to the main panel12. The first end of the bridging or connecting portion42may be connected to a side edge of a connecting tooth40c,40d; the side edge being disposed adjacent to an engaging edge of the connecting tooth40c,40d. A second or distal end of the bridging or connecting portion42is coupled or connected directly to the cover panel14. The bridging or connecting portion42may be substantially “L” or “V” shaped. The bridging or connecting portion42comprises a generally radially extending section and a generally circumferential extending portion.

The cover panel14comprises at least one stopper tab44providing an end stop against which the article B may abut. The stopper tab44may abut or engage a rim or chime of the article B. In the illustrated embodiment, the blank10comprises a plurality of stopper tabs44, specifically, but not limited to, two stopper tabs44. The pair of stopper tabs44are arranged to be substantially opposite each other, that is to say they are diametrically opposed.

The bridging or connecting portion42may be arranged to extend beyond a notional circle defining the hinged connection between the plurality of teeth40a,40b,40c,40d,40eand the main panel12. That is to say the bridging or connecting portion42extends radially outward beyond the footprint of the plurality of teeth40a,40b,40c,40d,40e. A portion71a,73aof a cutline71,73defining an outermost edge of the connecting portion42is disposed outside the notional circle defining said hinged connection.

Optionally, the cutline defining an outermost edge of the connecting portion42may comprises a “J” or “C” shaped cut terminating an outer end thereof to provide a tear control feature. The cut may diverge away from the hinged connection of the connecting tab40c,40d.

At least a portion of a cutline71b,73bdefining an inner edge of the connecting portion42also defines, at least in part, the stopper tab44; the connecting portion42and the stopper tab44share a common cutline. The stopper tab44is nested or tessellated within the connecting portion42. The stopper tab44is disposed, at least in part, between a radially extending portion of the connecting portion42and the connecting tab40c,40dto which the connecting portion42is connected.

A partial tooth40emay abut, or be disposed adjacent to, the radially extending portion of the connecting portion42.

In the illustrated embodiment, the radius of curvature of each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines45is equal to the radius of curvature of each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines43however in other embodiments it may be different.

The blank10may comprise a handle structure H. The handle structure H may comprise a handle or finger opening disposed on a longitudinal axis bisecting the main panel12. The handle opening may be provided between the group of four article retention structures RT. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle opening is disposed centrally of the main panel12. The handle opening may be located at the centre of the group of four article retention structures RT.

The handle opening is defined by a plurality of tabs60,62. The handle opening comprises four tabs60,62. Each tab60,62is hinged to the main panel12by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. An arcuate or curvilinear cut line may be provided between each fold line to define a corner or vertex of the handle opening. The handle opening is substantially rhombus or diamond shaped, in other embodiments other shapes may be employed such as, but not limited to square. The handle opening comprises a pair of major tabs60and a pair of minor tabs62.

The pair of major tabs60are separated from each other by a first cut line or severable line. The pair of minor tabs62are separated from each other by the first cut line or severable line.

The pair of major tabs60are separated from the pair of minor tabs62by a second cut line or severable line.

The first cut line is colinear with a notional line bisecting the group of four article retention structures RT.

The first cut line may be linear in shape and may extend between a first pair of opposed vertices of the handle opening.

The second cut line may be non-linear in shape and may extend between a second pair of opposed vertices of the handle opening. The second cut line intersects the first cutline, the second cut line comprises a “V” or “U” shaped medial portion; a vertex of the “V” or “U” shaped portion intersects the first cutline.

One of the pair of major tabs60is hinged to the main panel12by a first fold line. The other one of the pair of major tabs60is hinged to the main panel12by a second fold line. The first fold line is divergently arranged with respect to the second fold line.

One of the pair of minor tabs62is hinged to the main panel12by a third fold line. The other one of the pair of minor tabs62is hinged to the main panel12by a fourth fold line. The third fold line is divergently arranged with respect to the fourth fold line.

The first fold line is divergently arranged with respect to the third fold line. The second fold line is divergently arranged with respect to the fourth fold line.

Each of the pair of major tabs60may comprise a fold line extending thereacross. The fold line may be substantially parallel to the fold line hinging the respective one of the pair of major tabs60to the main panel12. The fold line may extend between the first cut line or severable line and the second cut line or severable line. The fold lines across the pair of major tabs60may define a “V” shaped fold arranged in opposition to the V″ or “U” shaped medial portion of the second cut line.

Referring now toFIGS.4to6there is shown additional embodiments of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiments, like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix “100”; “200” to indicate that these features belong to the second and third embodiments respectively. The alternative embodiments share many common features with the embodiment ofFIGS.1to3, therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated inFIGS.1to3will be described in any greater detail.

FIG.4shows a blank110comprising a plurality of main panels112,116,118,120,122including a first main panel112for forming a top wall or engaging panel112of a carrier190(seeFIG.5).

The first main panel112comprises at least one article retention structure RT. The main panel112comprises a plurality of article retention structures RT, specifically eight article retention structures RT arranged in 2×4 matrix or array. Each of the article retention structures RT comprises a cover panel114.

The article retention structures RT ofFIG.4are substantially similar to those ofFIG.1albeit four connecting tabs140care provided and a bridging or connecting portion142is connected to, or integral with, a respective one of the connecting tabs140c. The connecting portions142are smaller in a radial direction or dimension such that the connecting portions142are disposed within the footprint of the plurality of teeth140b,140c. The plurality of connecting portions142are arranged in pairs of diametrically opposed connecting portions142. A second full tooth140band a partial tooth140eis disposed between a pair of adjacently disposed connecting portions142.

The connecting portions142are arranged such that a connecting portion142of a first article retention structures RT is back-to-back with, or adjacent to, a connecting portion142of a second, adjacently disposed (laterally or longitudinally) article retention structures RT. In this way no engaging teeth140b,140c,140eare provided on, or about, the circumference or perimeter of the article retention structures RT in the region between pairs of laterally or longitudinally adjacent article retention structures RT where the pairs of laterally or longitudinally adjacent article retention structures RT are in closest proximity.

A portion of the cut line defining an outer edge or perimeter of the connecting portions142may define, or lie upon, a notional circle defined by the hinged connection between the engaging teeth140b,140c,140eand the first main panel112.

In the embodiment ofFIG.4, the second circumferential cut lines145have been omitted.

A second main panel116forms a first end panel116and is hingedly connected to a first end of the first main panel112by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line113.

A third main panel122forms a second end panel118and is hingedly connected to a second, opposing, end of the first main panel112by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line115.

A fourth main panel120forms a first side panel120and is hingedly connected to a first side of the first main panel112by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line117.

A fifth main panel122forms a second side panel122and is hingedly connected to a second, opposing, side of the first main panel112by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line119.

The blank110comprises a first end structure. The first end structure comprises the first end panel116. The first end structure comprises a first corner panel124A hingedly connected to a first end of the first end panel116by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line121A. A second corner panel124B is hingedly connected to a second, opposing, end of the first end panel116by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line121B.

The first end structure comprises a first web panel126A hingedly connected at one end to the first corner panel124A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line12A and hingedly connected at a second end to the first side panel120by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line125A.

A second web panel126B is hingedly connected at one end to the second corner panel124B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line123B and is hingedly connected at a second end to the second side panel122by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line125B.

The blank110comprises a second end structure. The second end structure comprises the second end panel118. The second end structure comprises a third corner panel128A hingedly connected to a first end of the second end panel118by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line127A. A fourth corner panel128B is hingedly connected to a second, opposing, end of the second end panel118by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line127B.

The second end structure comprises a third web panel130A hingedly connected at one end to the third corner panel128A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line129A and hingedly connected at a second end to the first side panel120by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line131A.

A fourth web panel130B is hingedly connected at one end to the fourth corner panel128B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line129B and is hingedly connected at a second end to the second side panel122by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line131B.

It will be appreciated that the first end panel116, the first corner panel124A, and the second corner panel125A, form a first strap124A/116/24B along a first end of the main panel112. The second end panel118, the third corner panel128A, and the fourth corner panel124B form a second strap128A118/128B along a second end of the main panel112.

The blank110may comprise at least one alignment or registration device W1, W2; in some embodiments blank110may comprise at least two alignment or registration devices W1, W2. Each of the registration devices W1, W2takes the form of a cutaway or recess defining a registration edge of the blank110for receiving or engaging a reference pin (discussed in greater detail below). The blank110comprises a pair of first registration devices W1each defining a downstream or leading registration edge. The blank110may also comprise a pair of registration devices W2each defining an upstream or trailing registration edge. Each of the cutaways or recesses, defining a registration devices W1, W2, is struck from one of the first and second side panels120,122. The alignment or registration devices W1, W2may be employed during assembly of the blank110into an article carrier190and may be engaged by a suitable machine tool to align the blank with respect to a group of articles B.

The blank110may comprise at least one stabilisation device M. In the illustrated embodiment, the blank110comprises two stabilisation devices M. The stabilization device M takes the form of an opening struck from the blank110. A first stabilisation device M is disposed between first group of four article retention structures RT located proximate a first or leading end edge of the blank110and may be disposed centrally between said group of article retention structures RT. A second stabilisation device M is disposed between a second group of four article retention structures RT located proximate a second or trailing end edge of the blank110and may be disposed centrally between said group of article retention structures RT. The stabilisation devices M are configured to receive an abutment peg during application of the blank110to a group of articles B. The abutment peg stabilises or secures the blank110when the side and end panels120,122,116,118are folded about the group of articles B and the registration devices W1, W2are disengaged from their respective machine tool during assembly of the blank110into an article carrier190.

The opening of the stabilisation devices M may be non-circular in shape, and may be substantially square or diamond shaped. The opening may be defined by at least one tab194struck from the main panel112and hingedly connected thereto. In the illustrated embodiment, the opening is defined by a pair of tabs194each struck from the main panel112and hingedly connected to the main panel112in opposition to each other. The pair of tabs194may be separated from each other by a cut or severable line195.

In some embodiments, the stabilisation devices M may be arranged to provide an additional handle opening. In the embodiment ofFIG.4, the stabilisation devices M are generally too small in dimension to accept a finger or portion thereof of a user's finger. This may be advantageous in that a greater amount of substrate material is provided in the main panel112between the stabilisation devices M and the of article retention structures RT, whereby improving the robustness and integrity of the article carrier190.

The end structures of the blank110are folded to secure the first and second end panels116,118about sides of a group of articles B. The blank110can be applied to the group of articles B in a flat form and folded thereabout.

The main panel112is lowered with respect to a group of articles B. The first and second end panels116,118are folded about the opposing sides of the group of articles B. The corner panels124A,124B,128A,128B are folded about the corners of the group of articles B.

The first and second side panels120,122are folded downwards about a respective side of the group of articles B to be brought into face contacting relationship with a portion of the corner panels124A,124B,128A,128B and secured thereto by adhesive.

Referring now toFIG.6there is shown a blank210according to a third embodiment of the disclosure. The blank210comprises a plurality of main panels212,216,218,220,222in a substantially similar arrangement to the blank110ofFIG.4, and includes a first main panel212for forming a lower wall or engaging panel of a carrier (not shown).

The main panel212of the blank210includes at least one article retention structure RT1, RT2. The main panel212comprises a plurality of article retention structures RT1, RT2, specifically eight article retention structures RT1, RT2arranged in 2×4 matrix or array. Each of the article retention structures RT1, RT2comprises a cover panel214. The article retention structures RT1, RT2are substantially similar to those shown inFIG.1albeit the cover panel214comprises additional stopper tabs248,252,256.

The blank comprises four outer, or endmost, article retention structures RT1and four intermediate article retention structures RT2. The endmost article retention structures RT1comprise three additional stopping tabs248,252,256.

A first stopper tab248is disposed opposite a first engaging tab250, the first engaging tab250is disposed adjacent to one of the first and second side panels220,222. The first stopper tab248of a first endmost article retention structure RT1is disposed back-to-back with a first stopper tab248of a second, adjacent, endmost article retention structure RT1each defining a recess in the article receiving opening of the respective endmost article retention structure RT1. A second stopper tab252is disposed opposite a second engaging tab246, the second engaging tab246is disposed adjacent to one of the first and second end panels216,218. The second stopper tab252of a first endmost article retention structure RT1is disposed back-to-back with a second stopper tab252of a second, adjacent, intermediate article retention structure RT2each second stopper tab252defining a recess in the article receiving opening of the respective article retention structure RT1, RT2.

A third stopper tab256is disposed opposite a second full tooth240b.

The intermediate article retention structures RT2comprise four additional stopping tabs248,252,256.

A first stopper tab248is disposed opposite a first engaging tab250, the first engaging tab250is disposed adjacent to one of the first and second side panels220,222. The first stopper tab248of a first endmost article retention structure RT1is disposed back-to-back with a first stopper tab248of a second, adjacent, endmost article retention structure RT1each defining a recess in the article receiving opening of the respective endmost article retention structure RT1.

The intermediate article retention structures RT2comprise a pair of second stopper tabs252disposed diametrically opposite each other. Each of the pair of second stopper tabs252of a first intermediate article retention structure RT2is disposed back-to-back with a second stopper tab252of an adjacent article retention structure RT1, RT2(either an endmost article retention structure RT1or an intermediate article retention structures RT2) each second stopper tab252defining a recess in the article receiving opening of the respective retention structure RT1, RT2.

A third stopper tab256is disposed opposite a second full tooth240b.

Referring now toFIGS.7A to12there is shown further alternative embodiments of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiments, like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix “300”; “400” to indicate that these features belong to the fourth and fifth embodiments respectively. The alternative embodiments share many common features with the embodiment ofFIGS.1to6, therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated inFIGS.1to6will be described in any greater detail.

FIGS.7A and7Bshow a blank310comprising a main panel312forming an engaging panel312of an article engaging device390(seeFIG.8). The device ofFIG.8is an identification tag such as a keg collar. Optionally, the main panel312is hexagonal in shape, in other embodiments other shapes may be employed such as, but not limited to, square, pentagon, octagon, dodecagon, hexadecagon, and circle.

The main panel312comprises a single article engaging structure RT. The article engaging structure RT comprises an article receiving opening defined in part by a cover panel314.

The article engaging structure RT comprises a plurality of engaging teeth340a,340c,340edisposed about the cover panel314and defining a perimeter of the article receiving opening.

The plurality of teeth340a,340c,340eare hinged to the main panel312by a fold line. The fold line may be defined by a plurality of cut lines343,345. The plurality of cut lines343,345may define or approximate a circle or part thereof.

The article engaging structure RT may comprise a plurality of first full teeth340adisposed about the cover panel314. Each first tooth340acomprises an engaging edge E1opposing a hinged edge. The engaging edges E1are defined by a linear portion of a cut line defining the cover panel314. Each engaging edge E1defines a part of a polygon such as but not limited to a hexadecagon. In some embodiments, the cut line defining the cover panel314may be arcuate, at least in part, in shape. Each full tooth340acomprises a pair of side edges, the side edges are defined by cut lines341extending radially outward from respective vertices of the polygon. That is to say from a respective vertex between a pair of adjacent linear portions of the cut line defining the cover panel314. The cut lines341are divergently arranged with respect to each other and define an angle therebetween, the angle may be about 22.5°.

The article engaging structure RT may comprise a plurality of first circumferential cut lines343. Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines343is aligned with one of the radial cut lines341such that said one of the radial cut lines341or a notional extension thereof bisects a respective one of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines343.

The first full teeth340amay comprise a pair of first circumferential cut lines343that is spaced apart from a respective radial cut line341bisecting it so as to define a connecting nick or bridge portion N between a pair of adjacently disposed teeth340a,340c,340e. Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines343may be linear in shape. Alternatively, each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines343may be non-linear or arcuate in shape.

The article engaging structure RT may comprise a plurality of second circumferential cut lines345. Each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines345is disposed between a pair of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines343and is spaced apart therefrom so as to define a pair of connecting nick or bridge portions between a tooth340a,340c,340eand the main panel312. The pair of connecting nick or bridge portions provide a hinged or foldable connection between each tooth340a,340c,340eand the main panel312. Each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines345may be linear in shape. Alternatively, each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines345may be non-linear or arcuate in shape.

In the illustrated embodiment, the radius of curvature of each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines345is equal to the radius of curvature of each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines343however in other embodiments it may be different.

The article engaging structure RT comprises at least one, two or more connecting teeth340c. The illustrated embodiment comprises a four connecting teeth340c, each is coupled or connected to a bridging or connecting portion342. In the illustrated embodiment, a first or proximal end of the bridging or connecting portion342is coupled in part to a connecting tooth340cand in part to the main panel312. The first end of the bridging or connecting portion342may be connected to a side edge of a connecting tooth340c; the side edge being disposed adjacent to an engaging edge of the connecting tooth340c. A second or distal end of the bridging or connecting portion342is coupled or connected directly to the cover panel314. The bridging or connecting portion342may be substantially “Z” or ‘S″ shaped. The bridging or connecting portion342comprises a generally radially extending section and a generally circumferential extending portion.

The cover panel314comprises at least one stopper tab344providing an end stop against which the article B may abut. The stopper tab344may abut or engage a rim of a port of the article B. In the illustrated embodiment, the article B comprises a fill port C (also known as a “bung’), best shown inFIG.12. The port C comprises a self-closing valve; this may take the form of a ball bearing held in closed configuration by fluid pressure within the article B. The port C is adapted to receive a coupler for filling the article B with product and for dispensing the product from within the article B. In the illustrated embodiment, the blank310comprises a plurality of stopper tabs344, specifically, but not limited to, four stopper tabs344. Pairs of stopper tabs344are arranged to be substantially opposite each other, that is to say they are diametrically opposed.

The bridging or connecting portion342may be arranged to be contained within a notional circle NC defining the hinged connection between the plurality of teeth340a,340c,340eand the main panel312. That is to say the bridging or connecting portion342is contained within the footprint of the plurality of teeth340a,340c,340e. A portion371a,373aof a cutline371,373defining an outermost edge of the connecting portion342is offset with respect to the notional circle NC defining said hinged connection.

At least a portion of a cutline371b,373bdefining an inner edge of the connecting portion342also defines, at least in part, the stopper tab344; the connecting portion342and the stopper tab344share a common cutline. The stopper tab344is nested or tessellated within the connecting portion342. The stopper tab344is disposed, at least in part, between a radially extending portion of the connecting portion342and the connecting tab340cto which the connecting portion342is connected.

A partial tooth340emay abut, or be disposed adjacent to, the radially extending portion of the connecting portion342.

FIG.8shows the blank310mounted to an article B to form an engaging device such as a cap390. The cap390comprises a cover panel314to protect the port C of the article B which optionally is a beverage keg. This may prevent or inhibit ingress of dust, dirt, or other foreign objects into the port C. The cap390may also provide a surface for display of information, advertising, or branding.

When engaged with the port C, the cover panel314is displaced outwardly from the main panel312, along with the connecting portions or bridging strips342and the teeth340a,340c,340e. The teeth340a,340c,340eengage with a flange, projection, or lip of the port C to inhibit removal or separation of the cap390from the article B.

FIGS.9A and9Bshow a blank410, according to another embodiment, comprising a main panel412forming an engaging panel412of an article engaging device490(seeFIG.10) which may optionally be an identification tag having a cap incorporated into it. Optionally, the main panel412is hexagonal in shape, in other embodiments other shapes may be employed such as, but not limited to, square, pentagon, octagon, dodecagon, hexadecagon, and circle. The main panel412is larger in dimension than that of the embodiment ofFIGS.7A and7B.

The main panel412comprises a single article engaging structure RT substantially similar in construction to the article engaging structure RT ofFIGS.7A and7Band will not be described in further detail.

The article engaging structure RT is surrounded by a frangible or severable line409defining a detachable portion408of the main panel412. The detachable portion408and the article engaging structure RT provided therein form a cap or cover490for a port C of an article B as shown inFIGS.10and11. The article B may optionally be a beverage keg,

The portion of the main panel412outside the severable line409forms a collar412B. The collar412B is separable or detachable along the severable line409from the cap490as shown inFIGS.11and12. InFIG.12, the cap490has been removed from the port C.

Separation or detachment of the cap490along the severable line409from the main panel412creates an opening OP in the main panel412, the opening OP is sufficiently large to accommodate the port C such that the collar412B can sit upon a top panel T of the article B with the port C passing through the opening OP. The main panel412is dimensioned so as to be accommodated within a recess or orifice in the top of the article B. The recess in the article B provides upstanding annular wall having one or more handle openings H.

The severable line409may be shaped to provide a tab408T, the tab408T may provide a handle for facilitating removal of the cap490from the port C.

The collar412B may serve as an identification tag for providing an additional surface for display of information, advertising, or branding, advantageously the information remains mounted to the article B after removal of the cap490.

Referring now toFIGS.13and14there is shown an additional embodiment of the present disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix “500” to indicate that these features belong to the sixth embodiment respectively. The alternative embodiment shares many common features with the previous embodiments, therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated inFIGS.1to12will be described in any greater detail.

FIG.13shows a blank510comprising a main panel512forming an engaging panel512of an article engaging device590(seeFIG.14). The engaging panel512serves as an identification tag such as a keg collar while the cover panel514serves as a cap for covering the spout/valve/port of the keg as shown inFIG.14. Optionally, the main panel512is hexagonal in shape, in other embodiments other shapes may be employed such as, but not limited to, square, pentagon, octagon, dodecagon, hexadecagon, and circle.

The main panel512comprises a single article engaging structure RT. The article engaging structure RT comprises an article receiving opening defined in part by a cover panel514. The cover panel514is struck from the main panel512.

The article engaging structure RT comprises a plurality of engaging teeth540a,540e,540fdisposed about the cover panel514and defining a perimeter of the article receiving opening.

The plurality of teeth540a,540e,540fare hinged to the main panel512by a fold line. The fold line may be defined by a plurality of cut lines.

The article engaging structure RT comprises at least a pair of first and second non-linear slits580a,580beach comprising first and second opposite end sections581,583and an intermediate section582. The illustrated embodiment comprises four non-linear slits580,580a,580b. The first and intermediate sections581,583of each of the first and second non-linear slits580a,580bdefine part of the cover panel514. The first end section581of the first slit580ais disposed at a position radially inside of the second end section583of the second slit580b. The intermediate section582of each of the first and second non-linear slits580a,580bdefines a radially inner, distal, free, or engaging end edge of at least one of the engaging teeth540a,540e,540f.

The first end section581of the first slit580aand the second end section583of the second slit580bextend alongside one another, albeit spaced apart, to define a bridging strip542therebetween for connecting between the cover panel514and the main panel512or in alternative embodiments one of the engaging teeth540a,540e,540f.

The bridging strip542comprises a first part or section542athat extends generally circumferentially with respect to the article receiving opening. The bridging strip542comprises a second part or section542bthat extends generally circumferentially with respect to the article receiving opening and is disposed radially outwardly of the first section542a(that is to say the second part or section542bis further from the centre of the article receiving opening than the first part or section542a). The first section542aand the second section542bare coupled together by a third part or section542C, the third section542bextends generally radially with respect to the article receiving opening. This arrangement may be advantageous to allow the main panel512to be spaced further apart (at a lower, or upper, elevation) from the cover panel514when applied to the article without requiring the bridging strip542to extend significantly beyond the article receiving opening in a radial direction. In this way the article engaging structure RT has a compact footprint.

At least one of the engaging teeth540a,540e,540fhas a side edge defined by a radial cut585extending generally radially with respect to the article receiving opening. The radial cut585extends from the intermediate section582of a respective one of the first and second non-linear slits580a,580b.

The first non-linear slit580acomprises a branch section584extending from the first end section581of the first non-linear slit580a. At least part of the branch section584is disposed at a position radially outside of the second end section583of the second slit580aand extends therealongside.

The cover panel514comprises at least one stopper tab544for resting on an article rim R (seeFIG.15). The at least one stopper tab544extends radially outward from the cover panel514and is defined at least in part by the first end section581of the first non-linear slit580a. The illustrated embodiment comprises four stopper tabs544each defined by a first end section581of a non-linear slit580.

The stopper tab544defines a recess in the bridging strip542, the recess may engage with, or receive, a rim, ridge, projection, or lip extending radially outward from the port C and circumferentially, at least partially, thereabout. In this way the device590may be secured to the port C.

The main panel512of the device or keg collar590may be held above the top (not shown inFIG.15) of the article B, barrel, or keg. The main panel512may not be in direct contact with the article top, at least initially, this may change as the device or keg collar590ages or absorbs moisture.

The engaging teeth540a,540e,540fmay be configured to engage a sidewall of the port C to stabilise the device590.

The present disclosure provides a carrier90;190;390;490,590of the top engaging type having article retention or engaging structures RT; RT1, RT2for engaging articles B and a blank10;110;210;310;410;510for forming the article carrier90;190;390;490;590.

The carrier90;190;390;490;590comprises a main panel12;112;212;312;412;512having one or more article retention structures or engaging structures RT; RT1, RT2for receiving and securing the main panel12;112;212;312;412;512to a respective article B.

The present disclosure provides an article retention structure or engaging structure RT; RT1, RT2having an article receiving opening defined in part by a plurality of engaging teeth40a,40b,40c,40d,40e;140b,140c,140e;240b,246,250;340a,340c,340e;440a,440c,440e;540a,540e,540f. The article retention structures RT; RT1, RT2comprise a cover panel14;114;214;314;414;514coupled to the main panel12;112;212;312;412;512by at least one, two or more bridging strips42;142;242;342;442;542. Each bridging strip42;142;242;342;442;542extends from an engaging or connecting tooth40c,40d;140c;240c;340a,340c,340e;440a,440c,440e;540a,540e,540fand is directly connected to the cover panel14;114;214;314;414;514. This may be advantageous for maintaining the engaging or connecting tooth40c,40d;140c;240c;340a,340c,340e;440a,440c,440e;540a,540e,540fin engagement with an article B when received in the article engaging structure RT; RT1, RT2. This arrangement may prevent or mitigate against the engaging or connecting tooth40c,40d;140c;240c;340a,340c,340e;440a,440c,440e;540a,540e,540fbeing pulled radially outwards by the bridging strip42;142;242;342;442;542away from the article B and thus disengaged from the article B.

The present disclosure provides an article retention structure or engaging structure RT; RT1, RT2having a cover panel14;214;314;414;514and at least one stopper tab44;244,248,252,256;344;444;544(for resting on an article rim or ledge) having an outer free end which is defined by a first end section71b,73b;371b,373b,377b,379b;581of a first arcuate slit71,73;371,373,377,379;580a. The outer free end is adjoined by a bridging strip42;142;242;342;442;542and is separated therefrom by the first end section71b,73b;371b,373b,377b,379b;581.

The present disclosure provides an article retention structure or engaging structure RT; RT1, RT2having a cover panel14;214;314;414;514and at least one stopper tab44;244,248,252,256;34;444;544having an outer free end defined by a first end section71b;371b,373b,377b,379b;581of a first arcuate slit71,371,373,377,379;580a. The outer free end is radially spaced apart from a second end section73a;373a,377a,379a,371a;583of a second arcuate slit73;373,377,379,371;580bsuch that a bridging strip42;142;242;342;442;542is defined between the first end section71b;371b,373b,377b,379b;581and the second end section73a;373a,377a,379a,371a;583.

The present disclosure provides a top engaging device RT; RT1, RT2comprising a pair of opposing, essentially arcuate, slits71,73. A first end section71bof a first slit71is disposed at a position radially inside of a second end section73aof a second slit73. A second end section71aof the first slit71is disposed at a position radially outside of a first end section73bof the second slit73.

In some embodiments, there is provided an article carrier90;190comprising a main panel12;112;212having a top engaging device RT, RT1, RT2from which one or more articles B may be suspended.

In other embodiments, there is provided an article cover or cap390;490;590comprising a main panel312;412;512having an engaging device RT mounted to an article B for providing a display region or dust cap.

The present disclosure also provides an article engaging device90;190;390;490;590comprising an article retention structure or engaging structure RT; RT1, RT2for engaging at least one article B. The device90;190;390;490;590comprises a main panel12;112;212;312,412;512comprising the engaging structure RT; RT1, RT2. The engaging structure RT; RT1, RT2comprises a top-receiving opening defined in part by a plurality of engaging teeth40a,40b,40c,40d,40e;140b,140c,140e;240b,246,250;340a,340c,340e;440a,440c,440e;440a,440e,440fdisposed partially around the top-receiving opening. The device90;190;390;490;590comprises a cover panel14;114;214;314;414;514struck from the main panel12;112;212;312,412;512to define the top-receiving opening, at least in part. The engaging structure RT; RT1, RT2further comprises at least a pair of first and second non-linear slits71,73;371,373;580a,580beach comprising first and second opposite end sections71b,71a,73b,73a;371b,371a,373b,373a;581,583and an intermediate section71,73;371,373;582. The first and intermediate sections71b,71,73b,73;371b,371,373b,373;581,582of each of the first and second non-linear slits71,73;371,373;580a,580bdefine part of the cover panel514. The first end section71b,73b;371b,373b;581of the first slit71;371;580ais disposed at a position radially inside of the second end section73a;373a;583of the second slit73;373;580b. The intermediate section71,73;371,373;582of each of the first and second non-linear slits71,73;371,373;580a,580bdefines a radially inner or distal end of at least one of the engaging teeth40a,40b,40c,40d,40e;140b,140c,140e;240b,246,250;340a,340c,340e;440a,440c,440e;440a,440e,440f.

The blanks10;110;210;310;410;510include at least a paperboard substrate. The material of the paperboard substrate may be selected from any conventional paperboard, for example, ranging in weight upwardly from about 10 pt., preferably from about 16 pt. to about 28 pt. (0.028″/˜0.7 mm). An example of such a substrate is a 27 point (pt.) SBS board (solid bleached sulphate paperboard coated on one side, trade name PrintKote®) or CNK® board (Coated Natural Kraft®—an unbleached kraft paperboard having a clay coating on one side, trade name CarrierKote™) manufactured by WestRock® Company. The paperboard substrate may be a bleached or unbleached board. The board may be coated on at least one side, optionally the side opposite the lamination, with a conventional coating selected for compatibility with the printing method and board composition.

The blanks10;110;210;310;410;510may include a tear resistant layer laminated to the paperboard layer. It optionally includes an adhesive layer between the paperboard substrate and the tear resistant layer. The tear resistant layer may be disposed over the uncoated side of the paperboard substrate and may be formed of polymeric material and secured to the substrate. The tear resistant layer imparts toughness to the laminate structure. Suitable tear resistant materials may include, but not be limited to, tear resistant laminated sheet material, e.g., NATRALOCK®, which may include a layer of an n-axially oriented film, e.g., MYLAR®, which is a bi-axially oriented polyester, oriented nylon, cross-laminated polyolefin, or high-density polyolefin. The orientation and cross-laminated structure of these materials contribute to the tear resistant characteristic. Also, tear resistance may be attributed to the chemical nature of the tear resistant material such as extruded metallocene-catalysed polyethylene (mPE).

Alternatively, the tear resistant layer may be a layer of linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE). In embodiments where linear low-density polyethylene (LLDPE) or mPE is used, it is not necessary to incorporate an adhesive layer. Other suitable materials having a high level of tear resistance may also be used.

The adhesive layer may be formed of polyolefin material such as a low-density polyethylene (LDPE). The adhesive layer may be placed between the substrate and the tear resistant layer to secure the tear resistant layer to the substrate. It can be appreciated that various changes may be made within the scope of the present invention. For example, the size and shape of the panels and apertures may be adjusted to accommodate articles of differing size or shape. The shoulder panels may be omitted. The present invention is not limited to cartons of the top-engaging type, the invention may be employed with other carton styles such as, but not limited to, open top crates, lidded or closed top crates.

It will be recognised that as used herein, directional references such as “top”, “bottom”, “base”, “front”, “back”, “end”, “side”, “inner”, “outer”, “upper” and “lower” do not necessarily limit the respective panels to such orientation but may merely serve to distinguish these panels from one another.

As used herein, the terms “hinged connection” and “fold line” refer to all manner of lines that define hinge features of the blank, facilitate folding portions of the blank with respect to one another, or otherwise indicate optimal panel folding locations for the blank. Any reference to “hinged connection” should not be construed as necessarily referring to a single fold line only; indeed, a hinged connection can be formed from two or more fold lines wherein each of the two or more fold lines may be either straight/linear or curved/curvilinear in shape. When linear fold lines form a hinged connection, they may be disposed parallel with each other or be slightly angled with respect to each other. When curvilinear fold lines form a hinged connection, they may intersect each other to define a shaped panel within the area surrounded by the curvilinear fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may comprise a pair of arched or arcuate fold lines intersecting at two points such that they define an elliptical panel therebetween. A hinged connection may be formed from one or more linear fold lines and one or more curvilinear fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may comprise a combination of a linear fold line and an arched or arcuate fold line which intersect at two points such that they define a half moon-shaped panel therebetween.

As used herein, the term “fold line” may refer to one of the following: a scored line, an embossed line, a debossed line, a line of perforations, a line of short slits, a line of half-cuts, a single half-cut, an interrupted cutline, a line of aligned slits, a line of scores and any combination of the aforesaid options.

It should be understood that hinged connections and fold lines can each include elements that are formed in the substrate of the blank including perforations, a line of perforations, a line of short slits, a line of half-cuts, a single half-cut, a cutline, an interrupted cutline, slits, scores, embossed lines, debossed lines, any combination thereof, and the like. The elements can be dimensioned and arranged to provide the desired functionality. For example, a line of perforations can be dimensioned or designed with degrees of weakness to define a fold line and/or a severance line. The line of perforations can be designed to facilitate folding and resist breaking, to facilitate folding and facilitate breaking with more effort, or to facilitate breaking with little effort.

The phrase “in registry with” as used herein refers to the alignment of two or more elements in an erected carton, such as an aperture formed in a first of two overlapping panels and a second aperture formed in a second of two overlapping panels. Those elements in registry with each other may be aligned with each other in the direction of the thickness of the overlapping panels. For example, when an aperture in a main panel is “in registry with” a second aperture in a second panel that is placed in an overlapping arrangement with the main panel, an edge of the aperture may extend along at least a portion of an edge of the second aperture and may be aligned, in the direction of the thickness of the first and second panels, with the second aperture.