Carton and blank therefor

The disclosure relates to a top engaging carrier formed from a paperboard substrate having a first surface and an opposing second surface, with a polymer film laminated onto the first surface.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to cartons and to 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 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.

The present invention seeks to provide an improvement in the field of cartons, typically formed from paperboard or the like.

SUMMARY

A first aspect of the invention provides a top engaging carrier for packaging one or more articles, comprising a main panel which comprises at least one aperture for receiving a portion of an article. The main panel further comprises an annular series of tabs formed around the aperture, the aperture defining a first edge of the tabs. The tabs of the annular series are hingedly connected to the main panel such that the tabs yield out of the plane of the main panel when an article is received in the aperture so as to bear against the article. At least one tab of the annular series is defined at least in part by a first cutline extending from the aperture into the main panel. The first cutline separates at least a portion of the at least one tab from an adjacent tab. The main panel comprises a second cutline, the second cutline being spaced apart from the first cutline and defining a portion of a second edge of each of the at least one tab and the adjacent tab, wherein the second edge opposes the first edge.

Optionally, the first cutline extends substantially radially from the aperture.

Optionally, the second cutline is circumferentially arranged with respect to the aperture.

Optionally, the at least one tab is connected to the adjacent tab by a connecting portion proximate the second cutline.

Optionally, the second cutline forms a stress relief mechanism.

Optionally, at least two tabs of the annular series are spaced apart from one another by a cutout placed between each tab and a next adjacent tab. Each cutout is defined by a pair of opposing side edges and by a curved end edge extending between the side edges. The curved end edge is disposed at a location furthermost from the center of the respective aperture, wherein the opposing side edges are divergently arranged with respect to each other.

A second aspect of the invention provides a top engaging carrier for packaging one or more articles comprising a main panel, which comprises at least one aperture for receiving a portion of an article. The main panel further comprises an annular series of tabs formed around the aperture, the aperture defining a first edge of the tabs. The tabs of the annular series are hingedly connected to the main panel such that the tabs yield out of the plane of the main panel when an article is received in the aperture so as to bear against the article. At least one tab of the annular series is defined at least in part by a radial cutline defined in the main panel, the radial cutline separating at least a portion of the at least one tab from an adjacent tab. The main panel comprises a circumferential cutline, the circumferential cutline being spaced apart from the radial cutline and defining a portion of a second edge of the at least one tab and the adjacent tab. The second edge opposes the first edge.

A third aspect of the invention provides a top engaging carrier for packaging one or more articles comprising a main panel which comprises at least one aperture for receiving a portion of an article, and a plurality of tabs forming an annular series around the aperture. The aperture defines a first edge of the tabs; each of the plurality of tabs is hingedly connected to the main panel such that each tab yields out of the plane of the main panel when an article is received in the aperture so as to bear against the article. At least one first tab of the plurality of tabs is defined at least in part by a first cutline extending from the aperture into the main panel. The first cutline separates at least a portion of the one or more first tabs from an adjacent tab. The main panel comprises at least one second cutline. The at least one second cutline is spaced apart from a respective one of the first cutlines and defines a portion of a second edge of the at least one first tab and the adjacent tab. The second edge opposes the first edge. At least one second tab of the plurality of tabs is defined at least in part by a first cutline extending from the aperture into the main panel. The first cutline separates at least a portion of the at least one second tab from an adjacent tab. The main panel comprises at least one third cutline, the at least one third cutline being spaced apart from a respective one of the first cut lines and defining a portion of a second edge of the at least one second tab and the adjacent tab. The second edge opposes the first edge. The at least one third cutline is larger in dimension than the at least one second cutline.

Optionally, the at least one second cutline is arcuate in shape.

Optionally, the at least one third cutline is arcuate in shape.

Optionally, the radius of curvature of the at least one third cutline is greater than the radius of curvature of the at least one second cutline.

Optionally, the at least one third cutline is longer than the at least one second cutline.

Optionally, at least one first tab is defined in part by a fourth cutline defining a fold line about which the at least one first tab yields when folded out of the plane of the main panel by insertion of an article into the aperture.

Optionally, the top engaging carrier comprises an asymmetric cutline defined in the main panel, the asymmetric cutline being spaced apart from a first cutline separating one of the at least one first tabs from one of the at least one second tabs. The asymmetric cutline is spaced apart from said first cutline and defines a portion of a second edge of said one of the at least one first tabs and said one of the at least one second tabs. The second edge opposes the first edge.

A fourth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming a carrier. The blank comprises a main panel which comprises at least one aperture for receiving a portion of an article, the main panel further comprising an annular series of tabs formed around the aperture. The aperture defines a first edge of the tabs, the tabs of the annular series being hingedly connected to the main panel such that the tabs yield out of the plane of the main panel when an article is received in the aperture so as to bear against the article. At least one tab of the annular series is defined at least in part by a first cutline extending from the aperture into the main panel. The first cutline separates at least a portion of the at least one tab from an adjacent tab. The main panel comprises a second cutline, the second cutline being spaced apart from the first cutline and defining a portion of a second edge of each of the at least one tabs and the adjacent tab, wherein the second edge opposes the first edge.

A fifth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming a carrier. The blank comprises a main panel which comprises at least one aperture for receiving a portion of an article, the main panel further comprising an annular series of tabs formed around the aperture. The aperture defines a first edge of the tabs, the tabs of the annular series being hingedly connected to the main panel such that the tabs yield out of the plane of the main panel when an article is received in the aperture so as to bear against the article. At least one tab of the annular series is defined at least in part by a radial cutline defined in the main panel, the radial cutline separating at least a portion of the at least one tab from an adjacent tab. The main panel comprises a circumferential cutline, the circumferential cutline being spaced apart from the radial cutline and defining a portion of a second edge of the at least one tab and the adjacent tab. The second edge opposes the first edge.

A sixth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming a carrier. The blank comprises a main panel which comprises at least one aperture for receiving a portion of an article. A plurality of tabs forms an annular series around the aperture, wherein the aperture defines a first edge of the tabs. Each of the plurality of tabs is hingedly connected to the main panel such that each tab yields out of the plane of the main panel when an article is received in the aperture so as to bear against the article. At least one first tab of the plurality of tabs is defined at least in part by a first cutline extending from the aperture into the main panel. The first cutline separates at least a portion of the one or more first tabs from an adjacent tab. The main panel comprises at least one second cutline, the at least one second cutline being spaced apart from a respective one of the first cutlines and defining a portion of a second edge of the at least one first tab and the adjacent tab. The second edge opposes the first edge. At least one second tab of the plurality of tabs is defined at least in part by a first cutline extending from the aperture into the main panel. The first cutline separates at least a portion of the at least one second tab from an adjacent tab. The main panel comprises at least one third cutline, the at least one third cutline being spaced apart from a respective one of the first cutlines and defining a portion of a second edge of the at least one second tab and the adjacent tab, the second edge opposing the first edge. The at least one third cutline is larger in dimension than the at least one second cutline.

A seventh aspect of the invention provides a carrier for packaging one or more articles comprising a main panel which comprises at least one aperture for receiving a portion of an article. The main panel further comprises an annular series of tabs formed around the aperture, the tabs of the annular series being hingedly connected to the main panel such that the tabs yield out of the plane of the main panel when an article is received in the aperture so as to bear against the article. At least one first tab of the annular series comprises a first width dimension. At least one second tab of the annular series comprises a second width dimension, the second width dimension being greater than the first width dimension.

Optionally, the at least one second tab is disposed in closer proximity to a free edge of the main panel than the at least one first tab.

An eighth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming a carrier. The blank comprises a main panel which comprises at least one aperture for receiving a portion of an article, the main panel further comprising an annular series of tabs formed around the aperture. The tabs of the annular series are hingedly connected to the main panel such that the tabs yield out of the plane of the main panel when an article is received in the aperture so as to bear against the article. At least one first tab of the annular series comprises a first width dimension. At least one second tab of the annular series comprises a second width dimension, the second width dimension being greater than the first width dimension.

A ninth aspect of the invention provides top engaging carrier as described in the first aspect, formed from a paperboard substrate having a thickness between 20 to 35 mils, the paperboard substrate having a first surface and an opposing second surface, with a polymer film laminated onto the first surface, the polymer film having a thickness between 1 to 3 mils.

Optionally, the paperboard substrate comprises a wet strength additive.

Optionally, the first surface faces the lower portion of the articles.

Optionally, the polymer film is tear-resistant.

Optionally, the polymer film is polyethylene terephthalate.

Optionally, a second polymer film is attached to the second surface.

A tenth aspect of the invention provides a blank as in the fourth aspect, the blank formed from a paperboard substrate having a thickness between 20 to 35 mils, the paperboard substrate having a first surface and an opposing second surface, with a polymer film laminated onto the first surface, the polymer film having a thickness between 1 to 3 mils.

Optionally, the paperboard substrate comprises a wet strength additive.

Optionally, the polymer film is tear-resistant.

Optionally, the polymer film is polyethylene terephthalate.

Optionally, a second polymer film is attached to the second surface.

An eleventh aspect of the invention provides a carrier for engaging the top of at least one article, comprising a generally planar sheet comprising a paperboard substrate having a thickness between 20 to 35 mils and opposed first and second surfaces; a polymer film laminated onto the first surface, the polymer film having a thickness between 1 to 3 mils; and an aperture formed in the generally planar sheet for closely receiving the at least one article.

Optionally, the paperboard substrate comprises a wet strength additive.

Optionally, the first surface faces the lower portion of the article.

Optionally, the polymer film is tear-resistant.

Optionally, the polymer film is polyethylene terephthalate.

Optionally, a second polymer film is attached to the second surface.

Within the scope of this application it is envisaged 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 taken independently or in any combination thereof. For example, features described in connection with one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments unless there is incompatibility of features.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of the package, blanks and article 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 packages, blanks and article 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 blank10capable 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 blank10forms a secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package. Alternative blanks110,210,310are shown inFIGS. 4, 5 and 7.

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 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 blanks10,110,210,310are 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 recognized 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 blanks10,110are configured to form a carton or carrier90for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles B. In the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 1 and 4, the arrangement is a 2×2 matrix or array; in the illustrated embodiment two rows of two articles are provided, and the articles B are beverage cans. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 5, the arrangement is a 3×2 matrix or array; in the illustrated embodiment three rows of two articles are provided, and the articles B are beverage cans. In the embodiment illustrated inFIG. 7, the arrangement is a 4×2 matrix or array; in the illustrated embodiment four rows of two articles are provided, and the articles B are beverage cans. Alternatively, the blanks10,110,210,310can 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.

Referring toFIG. 1, the blank10comprises a main panel12for forming a top wall or engaging panel of a carrier90(seeFIG. 2).

The main panel12includes at least one article retention structure RT1, RT2, RT3, RT4. In the embodiment ofFIG. 1the main panel comprises a plurality of article retention structures RT1, RT2, RT3, RT4, specifically four article retention structures RT1, RT2, RT3, RT4arranged in 2×2 matrix or array.

Each of the article retention structures RT1, RT2, RT3, RT4is substantially similar in construction and will therefore be described in detail with reference to the first article retention structure RT1.

The first article retention structure RT1comprises an aperture A1. The first aperture A1is an eleven-sided polygon or hendecagon. In other embodiments, other polygonal shapes, circular shapes, or scalloped shapes may be employed.

A plurality of article engaging tabs16,18,20are arranged about the periphery of the aperture A1. Each tab16,18,20is hinged to the main panel12.

Each tab16,18,20is separated from its adjacent neighbors by a linear cutline11. In this way each tab16,18,20comprises a first side edge19and a second side edge21. Each tab16,18,20comprises a free end edge23opposing a hinged edge. The free end edges23form engaging edges for retaining an article B, or at least a portion thereof, within the aperture A1. The free end edges23each defines a side of the polygonal shape of the first aperture A1. Each of the linear cutlines11, which define the side edges of the tabs16,18,20, extend from a vertex or corner of the polygonal shape of the first aperture A1. The linear cutlines11may be substantially radially arranged with respect to a notional circle that passes through each of the vertices of the polygonal shape of the first aperture A1. The linear cutlines11comprise a first proximal end that intersects with a vertex or corner of the polygonal shape of the first aperture A1. The linear cutlines11comprise a second distal end.

The plurality of article engaging tabs16,18,20comprises a series or set of first article engaging tabs16, a series or set of second article engaging tabs18, and a series or set of third article engaging tabs20.

The set of first article engaging tabs16are located on the main panel12in a region in which the article engaging tabs are subject to the greatest stress or deformation when an article B is received in the first article retention structure RT1.

A first arcuate cutline26is disposed proximate each of the linear cut lines11defining the side edges of the first article engaging tabs16. Each first arcuate cutline26is spaced apart from the second distal end of the linear cutlines11so as to define a connecting portion28or “nick” between a pair of adjacent first article engaging tabs16.

The set of third article engaging tabs20are located on the main panel12in a region in which the article engaging tabs are subject to the least stress or deformation when an article B is received in the first article retention structure RT1.

A third arcuate cutline22is disposed proximate each of the linear cut lines11defining the side edges of the third article engaging tabs20. Each third arcuate cutline22is spaced apart from the second distal end of the linear cutlines11so as to define a connecting portion28or “nick” between a pair of adjacent third article engaging tabs20. Those connecting portions28or “nicks” are provided for maintaining a connection between a pair of adjacent tabs16,18,20even after an article B is inserted into the aperture A1, A2, A3, A4, seeFIGS. 3A, 3B. The connecting portions28connect the respective tab16,18,20with the next adjacent tab16,18,20, thereby preventing or inhibiting the respective tab16,18,20from wobbling or rotating about the axis denoted by notional line X-X′ (seeFIG. 1) or at least mitigating against such wobbling or rotation.

The set of second article engaging tabs18are located on the main panel12so as to provide a transition between one of the first article engaging tabs16and one of the third article engaging tabs20.

A second arcuate cutline24,25is disposed proximate a cut line11separating each of the second article engaging tabs18from an adjacent third article engaging tab20.

Each second arcuate cutline24,25is spaced apart from the second distal end of the linear cutlines11so as to define a connecting portion28or “nick” between a respective one of the second article engaging tabs18and the third article engaging tab20adjacent to it.

Each of the first and third arcuate cutlines22,26is arranged symmetrically about the linear cutline with which it is associated. Each of the second arcuate cutlines24,25is asymmetrically arranged about one of the linear cutlines11.

The first, second and third arcuate cutlines26,24,25,22provide stress relief in the main panel12when the first, second and third article engaging tabs16,18,20are displaced out of the plane of the main panel12.

The first and third arcuate cutlines26,22are arranged symmetrically about the respective linear cutline11with which they are associated. The first arcuate cutlines26are larger in dimension than the third arcuate cutlines22. The first arcuate cutlines26comprise a first radius of curvature, the third arcuate cutlines22comprise a second radius of curvature; the first radius of curvature is larger than the second radius of curvature.

Each of the second cutlines24,25is arranged asymmetrically about the respective linear cutline11with which it is associated. The second cutlines24,25comprise a first portion and a second portion contiguously arranged with each other. The first portion is disposed proximate the second article engaging tab18and the second portion is disposed proximate a third article engaging tab20. The first portion of each of the second cutlines24,25comprises a first radius of curvature, the second portion of each of the second cutlines24,25comprises a second radius of curvature; the first radius of curvature is larger than the second radius of curvature.

The second cutlines24,25may be considered to comprise one half of a first arcuate cutline26and one half of a third arcuate cutline22contiguously arranged with each other.

The second cutlines24,25form asymmetrical ‘C’-shaped cuts, whereas the first and third cutlines26,22form symmetrical ‘C’-shaped cuts. The second cutlines24,25are employed at the boundary between a first area of the main panel12that is subject to higher stress upon displacement of the first article engaging tabs16and a second area of the main panel12that is subject to lower stress upon displacement of the third article engaging tabs20. The higher stress area of the main panel12occurs where the first tabs16are located as these first tabs16undergo higher bending stress, when an article B is inserted into the respective aperture A1, A2, A3, A4, than the third tabs20disposed in the lower stress area of the main panel12.

Each of the third article engaging tabs20is defined in part by a second linear cutline17provided in the main panel12.

Each second linear cutline17is disposed between a pair of adjacent arcuate cutlines26,24,25,22in a spaced apart relationship with each of the pair of adjacent arcuate cutlines26,24,25,22. Each of the third article engaging tabs20adjacent to one of the second article engaging tabs18comprises a second linear cutline17disposed between a first arcuate cutline26and second arcuate cutlines24,25in a spaced apart relationship with respect to both the first arcuate cutline26and the second arcuate cutlines24,25. The remaining third article engaging tabs20comprise a second linear cutline17disposed between a pair of adjacent first arcuate cutlines26in a spaced apart relationship with each of the pair of adjacent first arcuate cutlines26.

The second linear cutline17facilitates folding of each of the third article engaging tabs20with respect to the main panel12.

The second linear cutline17defines at least in part a straight or linear fold line17by which each of the third article engaging tabs20is hinged to the main panel12.

In the illustrated embodiment the first article retention structure RT1comprises eleven tabs16,18,20arranged about the periphery of the aperture A1.

Optionally, the plurality of article engaging tabs16,18,20may vary in dimension according to their location on the main panel12. The first article engaging tabs16may have a first width, the second article engaging tabs18may have a second width and the third article engaging tabs20may have a third width. The third width may be greater than the second width which in turn may be greater than the first width. In this way the free end edge23, which forms an engaging edge E1, E2, of the first tabs16is smaller in dimension than the free end edge23or engaging edge of the second or third tabs18,20.

In the illustrated embodiment, the article engaging tabs16,18,20located in the region of the main panel12and subject to the greatest stress or deformation when an article B is received in the article retention structure RT1, RT2, RT3, RT4, are smaller in dimension than the article engaging tabs16,18,20located in the region of the main panel12subject to the least stress or deformation.

The main panel12may optionally comprise a handle structure. The handle structure may comprise a first handle aperture A5. The first handle aperture A5is struck from the main panel12and is located in a region disposed centrally between a first pair of article retention structures RT1, RT2and a second pair of article retention structures RT3, RT4. The first handle aperture A5may be defined in part by a cushioning tab14hinged to the main panel12by fold line15. The first handle aperture A5may be substantially crescent or “C” shaped.

The main panel12may optionally comprise one or more pull tabs T1, T2, T3, T4. The pull tabs T1, T2, T3, T4may be located substantially at the corners of the main panel12. The pull tabs T1, T2, T3, T4may be substantially triangular in shape. The pull tabs T1, T2, T3, T4may be arranged to extend the main panel12beyond the footprint of the group of articles B being packaged; in this way, a user may more readily disengage the carrier90from the articles B.

Optionally, the side edges of the main panel12may be arranged in a curvilinear or undulating shape. In this way, a first blank10may be arranged in a nested arrangement with a second blank10. The undulating shape provides that the first and second blanks10together define a width which is less than twice the maximum width of an individual blank10. This may have economic and environmental benefit by reducing the amount of substrate required to produce a given number of blanks10.

The main panel12includes at least a paperboard substrate and a tear resistant layer laminated together. It optionally includes an adhesive layer between the paperboard substrate and the tear resistant layer. 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 11 pt. to about 14 pt. An example of such a substrate is a 12-point SBS board or CNK board manufactured by WestRock Company. Higher weights of paperboard substrate may be used for heavier articles. The paperboard substrate may be at least 14 pt, or at least 20 pt, or at least 24 pt, or at least 28 pt, or at least 32 pt or greater. As a non-limiting example, for carrying 16 ounce cans, the paperboard substrate may be about 28 pt. The paperboard substrate may be a bleached or unbleached board. The paperboard substrate may contain a wet-strength additive. The paperboard 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 tear resistant layer may be disposed over the uncoated side of the paperboard substrate and may be formed of polymeric material and secured to the substrate. The tear resistant layer imparts toughness to the laminate structure. Suitable tear resistant materials may include, but not be limited to, tear resistant laminated sheet material, e.g., NATRALOCK®, which may include a layer of an n-axially oriented film, e.g. MYLAR®, which is a bi-axially oriented polyester, oriented nylon, cross-laminated polyolefin or high density polyolefin. The orientation and cross-laminated structure of these materials contribute to the tear resistant characteristic. Also, tear resistance may be attributed to the chemical nature of the tear resistant material such as extruded metallocene-catalyzed polyethylene (mPE).

Alternatively, 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.

Turning to the construction of the carrier90from the blank10, the blank10may be applied to a group of articles B. The blank10is lowered with respect to the group of articles B. Each of the article retention structures RT1, RT2, RT3, RT4of the blank10are aligned with a respective article B in the group. Portions of the articles B pass through the main panel12. The tabs16,18,20of each of the article retention structures RT1, RT2, RT3, RT4are folded out of the plane of the main panel12and engage beneath the chime C (which may provide a flange F) of an article B. In this way, the tabs16,18,20grip or hold the article B and prevent or inhibit the article B from unintentionally separating from the main panel12. The assembled carton90is shown inFIG. 2.

Referring in particular toFIG. 3Aand toFIGS. 2 and 3b, the blank10forms a top engaging carrier90comprising a main panel12which comprises first and second adjacent apertures A1, A3arranged side by side each for receiving a portion of an article B. The main panel12further comprises an annular series of tabs16,18,20formed around each of the first and second apertures A1, A3. The tabs16,18,20of each annular series are connected to the main panel12such that the tabs16,18,20yield out of the plane of the main panel12, about fold lines31, when an article B is received in the respective aperture A1, A3so as to bear against the article B.

Another optional feature of the carrier90is that the main panel12is defined by a perimeter to which no other part of the carrier90is connected. That is to say, the carrier90is free of connection to other panels for example, but not limited to, side or end wall panels which extend about the sides of the article group. The perimeter of the main panel12is therefore defined in its entirety by free, cut or unhinged edges.

Another optional feature of the carrier90is that the main panel12is defined by a perimeter including convexly curved edges and concavely curved edges, wherein the radius of curvature of the convexly curved edges is substantially equal to the radius of curvature of the concavely curved edges, thus allowing two similar blanks10to be placed in a nested or tessellated arrangement.

Referring now toFIG. 4, there is shown an additional embodiment of the present disclosure. In the second illustrated embodiment like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix “100” to indicate that these features belong to the second embodiment. The additional embodiment shares many common features with the first embodiment and therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 1 to 3Bwill be described in detail.

Each of the first article engaging tabs116is constructed substantially similarly to those of the embodiment ofFIGS. 1 to 3B.

Each of the third article engaging tabs120is spaced apart from its adjacent neighbors120,118by a cutaway or recess R1, R2. In this way, each of the third article engaging tabs120comprises a first side edge and a second side edge. Each of the third article engaging tabs120comprises a free end edge opposing a hinged end edge defined in part by second linear cutline117. The free end edges form engaging edges for retaining an article B, or at least a portion thereof, within the aperture A1, A2, A3, A4.

Each of the recesses R1, R2comprises a curvilinear portion. In the illustrated embodiment the recesses R1, R2comprise a rounded end. That is to say, the curvilinear portion can be defined by a portion of the circumference of a circle. A portion of the recesses R1, R2may be defined by a segment of a circle. A further portion of the recesses R1, R2may be defined by a trapezoid; the trapezoid may be an isosceles trapezoid. The trapezoid has convergent side edges. Each of the third article engaging tabs120may be hinged to the main panel112by a straight fold line defined in part by, or interrupted by, the second linear cutlines117which straight fold line is in tangential contact, or intersects, with the rounded end of the adjacent recess R1, R2.

The curvilinear portion or rounded end of the cutaways or recesses R1, R2may reduce the likelihood of tears propagating in the main panel112from the cutaway.

The curvilinear end of each cutaway R1, R2may be defined in part by a circle having a radius of curvature. In one embodiment, the radius of curvature of the rounded end of each cutaway R1, R2may be equal to or more than 1/16″ (1.6 mm).

Each of the second article engaging tabs118is spaced apart from its adjacent neighboring third article engaging tab120by a cutaway or recess R1, R2. Each of the second article engaging tabs118is spaced apart from its adjacent neighboring first article engaging tab116by a linear cutline111; a first arcuate cutline126is provided proximate the linear cutline111. The first arcuate cutline126is spaced apart from the linear cutline111so as to define, at least in part, a connecting portion or ‘nick’ between each second article engaging tabs118and said adjacent neighboring first article engaging tab116.

Referring now toFIGS. 5 to 10, there are shown additional embodiments of the present disclosure. In the third and fourth illustrated embodiments like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix “200”, “300” to indicate that these features belong to the third and fourth embodiment respectively. The additional embodiments share many common features with the first embodiment and therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 1 to 3will be described in detail.

Referring toFIGS. 5 and 6, there is shown a blank210comprising a main panel212for forming a top wall or engaging panel of a carrier290.

Each of the article retention structures RT1, RT2, RT3, RT4, RT5, RT6is substantially similar in construction to the first article retention structure RT1of the embodiment ofFIG. 1.

The main panel212comprises a handle structure. The handle structure comprises a first handle aperture A9and a second handle aperture A10. The first handle aperture A9is struck from the main panel212and is located in a region disposed centrally between a first pair of article retention structures RT1, RT2and a second pair of article retention structures RT3, RT4. The first handle aperture A9may be defined in part by a cushioning tab214hinged to the main panel212by fold line215. The first handle aperture A9may be substantially crescent or “C” shaped. The second handle aperture A10is struck from the main panel212and is located in a region disposed centrally between the second pair of article retention structures RT3, RT4and a third pair of article retention structures RT5, RT6. The second handle aperture A10may be defined in part by a cushioning tab214hinged to the main panel212by fold line215. The second handle aperture A10may be substantially crescent or “C” shaped.

Referring toFIGS. 8 to 10, there is shown a blank310comprising a main panel312for forming a top wall or engaging panel of a carrier390.

Each of the article retention structures RT1, RT2, RT3, RT4, RT5, RT6, RT7, RT8is substantially similar in construction to the first article retention structure RT1of the embodiment ofFIG. 1.

The main panel312comprises a handle structure. The handle structure comprises three handle apertures A9. A first handle aperture A9is struck from the main panel312and is located in a region disposed centrally between a first pair of article retention structures RT1, RT2and a second pair of article retention structures RT3, RT4. A second handle aperture A9is struck from the main panel312and is located in a region disposed centrally between the second pair of article retention structures RT3, RT4and a third pair of article retention structures RT5, RT6. A third handle aperture A9is struck from the main panel312and is located in a region disposed centrally between the third pair of article retention structures RT5, RT6and a fourth pair of article retention structures RT7, RT8. The handle apertures A9may be substantially circular in shape.

Referring now to the embodiment ofFIG. 5, the article retention structures RT3, RT4comprise more first article engaging tabs216than the article retention structures RT1, RT2, RT5, RT6which are disposed in the corners of the main panel212. In the illustrated embodiment the article retention structures RT3, RT4comprise two second article engaging tabs218disposed adjacent to one another; in the article retention structures RT3, RT4the third article engaging tabs220are omitted. This reflects the fact that more of the tabs of the article retention structures RT3, RT4are disposed in high stress regions of the main panel212than the corner most retention structures RT1, RT2, RT5, RT6.

Referring now to the embodiment ofFIG. 7, the article retention structures RT3, RT4, RT5, RT6comprise more first article engaging tabs316than the article retention structures RT1, RT2, RT7, RT8which are disposed in the corners of the main panel312. In the illustrated embodiment the article retention structures RT3, RT4, RT5, RT6comprise two second article engaging tabs318disposed on opposing side of a single third article engaging tabs320.

In this way it will be recognized that the proportion of the article engaging tabs of each type, first, second or third may be adjusted as desired in accordance with the stresses placed upon the carrier when loaded with articles.

Part 2—Strength Testing

Certain embodiments of the carriers were tested to evaluate their ability to securely hold articles.

Carriers of the 2×2 type were loaded with standard 16-ounce aluminum cans, then stored overnight in a cold room at a temperature of 5.0 C±0.3 C and a relative humidity of 30%±3%. Upon removal from the cold room, the loaded carriers were placed for two hours in a humidity room at a temperature of 40 C±1.5 C and a relative humidity of 90%±3%. These conditions are intended to simulate the environment around the package when it is removed from refrigeration into a humid environment. Once removed from the humidity room, each carrier was suspended by the handle aperture (e.g. A5) from a hook510provided on the device500ofFIG. 11. The hook is intended to simulate a customer holding the carrier by placing his thumb through aperture A5and a finger around the edge of the carrier. A motor520turns wheel522to which chain524is attached off-center. The eccentric attachment of the chain to wheel522causes hook510to move up and down with a two-inch amplitude, at approximately 90 times per minute. The number of cycles is counted until at least one article B comes loose from the carrier. This movement is intended to simulate the stresses imposed on the carrier when a customer carries it down a flight of stairs. This test was repeated four to six times for each test condition.

The retaining apertures of the HI-CONE® carrier are approximately rectangular openings that are stretched to accommodate the cans. The paperboard carriers tested here used either the design shown inFIG. 12A(for condition X2) or the design shown inFIG. 12B(for conditions X3-X9). The materials used are shown in cross-section inFIGS. 13A-13F). The results are shown in Table 1. The lowest three tests were averaged (“Low Average”), and the results in Table 1 are listed (approximately in order) from least to greatest number of cycles endured by the samples. If the carrier endured 100 test cycles, the test was concluded without further cycles.

Condition X1, a 15 mil thick HI-CONE® low density polyethylene (LDPE) can collar (marketed by Illinois Tool Works), and including no paperboard substrate, lasted two test cycles. The material used for condition X1 is represented by the structure shown in in cross section inFIG. 13A.

Condition X2, NATRALOCK® paperboard (marketed by WestRock Company) is a 28 pt CNK (0.028″ coated natural kraft) paperboard laminated with a 1.4 mil tear-resistant (TR) polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film. The retaining apertures used in this condition were of the style depicted inFIG. 12A. The material structure is shown in cross section inFIG. 13B. (A tie layer exists between the paperboard and PET.) Condition X2 lasted only about one test cycle.

Condition X3 used the same material (FIG. 13B) as X2, but with the improved retaining structure ofFIG. 12B. Condition X3 lasted 21 test cycles, compared to only one cycle for Condition X2. The retaining structure (FIG. 12Binstead ofFIG. 12A) is the only difference between the X2 and X3 conditions, and thus the retaining structure ofFIG. 12Bappears to greatly improve the performance of the carrier.

The remaining conditions, Conditions X4-X9 all used the improved retaining structure ofFIG. 12B. Materials are depicted by the cross sections shown inFIGS. 13C-13F, all based on a 27 pt CNK (0.027″ coated natural kraft) paperboard that contains a wet strength additive. This material is marketed by WestRock Company as CARRIERKOTE® paperboard. A 2.0 mil tear-resistant PET film was laminated onto the CARRIERKOTE. A tie layer exists between the paperboard and the PET film.

Condition X4 used the structure ofFIG. 13C, with an aqueous water-resistant coating on the surface opposite from the 2 mil PET film. Condition X4 lasted 25 test cycles, which was not as good as conditions X5/X6 without the added aqueous coating.

Conditions X5 and X6 were identical, and used the structure ofFIG. 13D. Conditions X5 and X6 lasted 33 test cycles, which is a modest improvement over the 25 test cycles of condition X4.

Condition X7 was similar to X5 and X6, excepting that a UV-curable varnish was applied to the surface of the paperboard opposite from the PET film, as depicted inFIG. 13E. This gave a further improvement with the carrier lasting about 43 test cycles.

Conditions X8 and X9 were identical, and similar to X7, except that a one mil LDPE layer was applied to the surface of the paperboard opposite from the 2 mil PET film, as depicted onFIG. 13F. Conditions X8 and X9 gave markedly better endurance, lasting at least 100 test cycles.

The carrier blanks used in the tests of Table 1 were cut in the lab using a plotter-type cutter with the knife cut being made from the PET side of the blank. For cutting in a production setting, the carrier blanks would likely be die-cut, probably from the PET side of the blank. For die cutting, the rules (knives) that make the cut may be either a dual bevel rule D1as shown inFIG. 14Aor single bevel rule D2as shown inFIG. 14B.

If the die cutting is done from the PET side of the blank, a dual bevel rule D1as shown inFIG. 14Amay result in the PET layer P being slightly rounded or slightly recessed with respect to the overall thickness of the teeth, for example teeth16A,20A inFIG. 14C.

If the die cutting is done from the PET side of the blank, a single bevel rule D2as shown inFIG. 14Bmay result in the PET layer P being more flush or giving a sharper poly edge with respect to the overall thickness of the teeth, for example teeth16B,20B inFIG. 14D.

When a can B is inserted into the carrier cut with a dual bevel rule, as shown inFIG. 14C, the PET edge of the teeth16A,20A may not engage the flange F as closely as the PET edge of teeth16B,20B cut with a single bevel rule, as shown inFIG. 14D. For this reason, it may be advantageous to use a single-bevel rule D2to die-cut the carrier blank as shown inFIG. 14B.

FIGS. 14C and 14Dalso show a difference between the teeth16A,16B toward the center of the carrier, and the teeth16B,20B toward the perimeter of the carrier. The perimeter teeth20A,20B may bend at an angle θ1with respect to the carrier perimeter material. The more center teeth16A,16B may bend at an angle θ2with respect to the carrier interior. Since the carrier interior is relative taut between adjacent cans B, while the carrier perimeter is free to lie against the shoulder of cans B, the angle θ2may be greater than the angle θ1, giving rise to higher shear stresses in center teeth16compared with perimeter teeth20. The particular designs of the center teeth16, as described earlier, help alleviate the stresses that might otherwise tend to delaminate center teeth16.

Referring toFIG. 15, there is shown a plan view of a blank410capable of forming a carton or carrier490, as shown inFIG. 16, for containing and carrying a group of primary products such as, but not limited to, necked or capped containers, which hereinafter are referred to as articles B, as shown inFIG. 16. The blank410forms a secondary package for packaging at least two articles B.

In the embodiment, 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 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 blank410is 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 recognized 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 structure or carrier 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 blank410is configured to form a carton or carrier490for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles B. In the embodiment illustrated inFIGS. 15 and 16, the arrangement is a 1×2 matrix or array, and the articles B are mouth wash bottles. Alternatively, the blank410can 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.

Referring toFIG. 15, the blank410comprises a main panel412for forming a top wall or engaging panel of a carrier90(seeFIG. 16).

The main panel12includes at least two engaging rings O1, O2having article retention structures RT1, RT2respectively. The two engaging rings O1, O2are interconnected by a bridging member H which provided a carrying handle structure for lifting the package of the two articles B when the engaging rings O1, O2are engaged with the respective articles B.

The handle structure H comprises a handle panel432extending between the engaging rings O1, O2and a pair of cushioning flaps414,414which are hingedly connected to the handle panel432by first and second hinged connections such as fold lines415,415respectively.

Those cushioning flaps415are folded down about their respective fold lines415to provide hand comfort when the handle structure H is grasped by a user. The handle panel432is provided with a center fold line430to allow the handle panel432to be folded therealong to some extent such that the structural rigidity of the handle structure H is increased.

Each engaging ring O1, O2is provided with three connecting tabs C1, C2, C3, C4, C5, CA. Those connecting tabs C1through C6each provide a convenient location for placing one or more connecting necks so that two or more similar blanks may be connected together for manufacturing purpose.

Each of the article retention structures RT1, RT2is substantially similar in construction and will therefore be described in detail with reference to the first article retention structure RT1.

The first article retention structure RT1comprises an aperture A1. The first aperture A1is a twelve-sided polygon or dodecagon. In other embodiments, other polygonal shapes may be employed.

A plurality of article engaging tabs416,418,420are arranged about the periphery of the aperture A1. Each tab416,418,420is hinged to the respective engaging ring of the main panel412.

Each tab416,418,420is separated from its adjacent neighbors by a linear (or radial) cutline411. In this way, each tab416,418,420comprises a first side edge and a second side edge. Each tab416,418,420comprises a free end edge opposing a hinged edge. The free end edges form engaging edges for retaining an article B, or at least a portion thereof, within the aperture A1. The free end edges each defines a side of the polygonal shape of the first aperture A1. Each of the linear cutlines411, which define the side edges of the tabs416,418,420, extend from a vertex or corner of the polygonal shape of the first aperture A1. The linear cutlines411may be substantially radially arranged with respect to a notional circle that passes through each of the vertices of the polygonal shape of the first aperture A1. The linear cutlines411comprise a first proximal end that intersects with a vertex or corner of the polygonal shape of the first aperture A1. The linear cutlines411comprise a second distal end.

The plurality of article engaging tabs416,418,420comprises a series or set of first article engaging tabs416and a series or set of second article engaging tabs418,420.

The set of first article engaging tabs416are located on the main panel412in a region in which the article engaging tabs are subject to the greatest stress or deformation when an article B is received in the first article retention structure RT1.

A first arcuate (or circumferential) cutline426is disposed proximate each of the linear cut lines411defining the side edges of the first article engaging tabs416. Each first arcuate cutline426is spaced apart from the second distal end of the linear cutlines411so as to define a connecting portion428or “nick” between a pair of adjacent first article engaging tabs416.

The second article engaging tabs418,420are located on the main panel412in a region in which the article engaging tabs are subject to the least stress or deformation when an article B is received in the first article retention structure RT1.

A third arcuate (or circumferential) cutline422is disposed proximate each of the linear cut lines411defining the side edges of the second article engaging tab420. Each third arcuate cutline422is spaced apart from the second distal end of the linear cutlines411so as to define a connecting portion428or “nick” between a pair of adjacent second article engaging tabs418,420. Those connecting portions428or “nicks” are provided for maintaining a connection between a pair of adjacent tabs416,418,420even after an article B is inserted into the aperture A1, A2. The connecting portions428connect the respective tab416,418,420with the next adjacent tab416,418,420, thereby preventing or inhibiting the respective tab416,418,420from wobbling or rotating about its center axis which when in a blank form, is aligned with a radius of the aperture A1or at least mitigating against such wobbling or rotation.

A third arcuate cutline422is disposed proximate a cut line411separating each of the second article engaging tabs418from the second article engaging tab420.

Each third arcuate cutline422is spaced apart from the second distal end of the linear cutlines411so as to define a connecting portion428or “nick” between a respective one of the second article engaging tabs418and the second article engaging tab420.

Each of the first and third arcuate cutlines426,422is arranged symmetrically about the linear cutline with which it is associated whereas each of second arcuate (or circumferential) cutlines425is asymmetrically arranged about one of the linear cutlines11.

The first, second and third arcuate cutlines426,425,422provide stress relief in the main panel412when the first and second article engaging tabs416,418,420are displaced out of the plane of the main panel412.

The first arcuate cutlines426are larger in dimension than the third arcuate cutlines422. The first arcuate cutlines426comprise a first radius of curvature, the third arcuate cutlines422comprise a second radius of curvature; the first radius of curvature is larger than the second radius of curvature.

Each of the second arcuate cutlines425are located on the main panel412so as to provide a transition between one of the first article engaging tabs416and the adjacent second article engaging tab418. Each of the second arcuate cutlines425is arranged asymmetrically about the respective linear cutline411with which it is associated. The second cutlines425comprise a first portion and a second portion contiguously arranged with each other. The first portion is disposed proximate the first article engaging tab416while the second portion is disposed proximate a second article engaging tab418. The first portion of each of the second cutlines425comprises a first radius of curvature while the second portion of each of the second cutlines425comprises a second radius of curvature. The first radius of curvature is larger than the second radius of curvature.

The second arcuate cutlines425may be considered to comprise one half of a first arcuate cutline426and one half of a third arcuate cutline422contiguously arranged with each other.

The second cutlines425form asymmetrical ‘C’-shaped cuts, whereas the first and third cutlines426,422form symmetrical ‘C’-shaped cuts. The second cutlines425are employed at the boundary between a first area of the main panel412that is subject to higher stress upon displacement of the first article engaging tabs416and a second area of the main panel412that is subject to lower stress upon displacement of the second article engaging tabs418,420. The higher stress area of the main panel412occurs where the first tabs416are located as these first tabs416undergo higher bending stress, when an article B is inserted into the respective aperture A1, A2, than the second tabs418,420disposed in the lower stress area of the main panel412.

Each of the second article engaging tabs418,420is defined in part by a second linear cutline417provided in the main panel412.

Each second linear cutline417is disposed between a pair of adjacent arcuate cutlines422,422; or422,425in a spaced apart relationship with each of the pair of adjacent arcuate cutlines422,422; or422,425.

The second linear cutlines417each serves as a fold line to facilitates folding of the respective one of the second article engaging tabs418,420with respect to the main panel412.

In the illustrated embodiment, all the article engaging tabs416,418,420are equal in size. Optionally, the article engaging tabs416,418,420may vary in dimension according to their location on the main panel412. The first article engaging tabs416may have a first width, the second article engaging tabs418may have a second width and the second article engaging tab420may have a third width. The third width may be greater than the second width which in turn may be greater than the first width. In this way, the free end edge, which forms an engaging edge, of each first engaging tab416is smaller in length than the free end edge or engaging edge of each second tab418,420. In such an optional embodiment, the article engaging tabs416located in the region of the main panel412and subject to the greater stress or deformation when an article B is received in the article retention structure RT1, RT2may be less in length than the article engaging tabs418,420located in the region of the main panel412subject to the lesser stress or deformation.

The main panel412may include at least a paperboard substrate and a tear resistant layer laminated together. It optionally includes an adhesive layer between the paperboard substrate and the tear resistant layer. 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 11 pt. to about 14 pt. An example of such a substrate is a 12-point SBS board or CNK board 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 tear resistant layer may be disposed over the uncoated side of the paperboard substrate and may be formed of polymeric material and secured to the substrate. The tear resistant layer imparts toughness to the laminate structure. Suitable tear resistant materials may include, but not be limited to, tear resistant laminated sheet material, e.g., NATRALOCK®, which may include a layer of an n-axially oriented film, e.g. MYLAR®, which is a bi-axially oriented polyester, oriented nylon, cross-laminated polyolefin or high density polyolefin. The orientation and cross-laminated structure of these materials contribute to the tear resistant characteristic.

Also, tear resistance may be attributed to the chemical nature of the tear resistant material such as extruded metallocene-catalyzed polyethylene (mPE).

Alternatively, 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.

Turning to the construction of the carrier490from the blank410, the blank410may be applied to two articles B. The blank410is lowered with respect to the articles B. Each of the article retention structures RT1, RT2of the blank410are aligned with the neck of the respective article B. The necks of the articles B pass through the respective engaging rings O1, O2of the main panel412. The tabs416,418,420of each of the article retention structures RT1, RT2are folded out of the plane of the main panel412and engage beneath the flange F of the respective article B. Such a flange F may be provided below the cap of the article and above the shoulder of the article. In this way, the tabs416,418,420grip or hold the respective article B and prevent or inhibit the article B from unintentionally separating from the main panel412. The assembled carton490is shown inFIG. 16.

The present disclosure provides a carrier of the top engaging type having improved article retention structures. In particular, the retention structures comprise article engaging tabs which yield upon insertion of an article. The tabs engage with an article to hold or secure the article within a panel of the carrier. The construction of the tabs is dependent upon the location of the tabs within the panel of the carrier. Those tabs subject to the greatest stress, typically those disposed in the interior regions of the panel or in close proximity to a tab of an adjacent retention structure, are provided with a stress relieving mechanism in the form of cutlines. The cutlines are provided proximate the side edge of the tabs and interrupt or define a fold line between the tab and the panel form which it is struck or formed.

The dimension of a tab may also be dependent upon its location in the panel of the carrier. Those tabs disposed in higher stress areas may be smaller in width than tabs subject to lesser stress.

It will be recognized 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, 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 “aligned with” or “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 first panel is “in registry with” a second aperture in a second panel that is placed in an overlapping arrangement with the first panel, an edge of the aperture may extend along at least a portion of an edge of the second aperture and may be aligned, in the direction of the thickness of the first and second panels, with the second aperture.