Patent Description:
In the field of packaging it is known to provide article carriers or 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 an object of the present invention to provide to a carrier having a partition structure for separating articles within an interior chamber of the carrier. It is desirable to minimise or reduce the material required to produce the carrier for economic or environmental benefit or both.

It is desirable that the blank from which the carrier is formed can be readily assembled into a carrier in a simple and efficient manner.

<CIT> discloses a carrier for holding a plurality of containers. The carrier can comprise a plurality of panels that extends at least partially around an interior of the carrier. The plurality of panels can comprise at least a front panel and a central panel. The interior of the carrier can be divided into a front portion and a back portion by at least the central panel. A divider flap can be foldably connected to the central panel. The divider flap can extend at least partially from the central panel to the front panel. An attachment feature can comprise a hinge panel and an attachment tab. The hinge panel can be foldably connected to the divider flap along a first fold line, and the attachment tab can be foldably connected to the hinge panel along a second fold line. The attachment tab and the front panel can at least partially overlap one another.

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

A first aspect of the invention provides an article carrier comprising a plurality of primary panels for forming a tubular structure and defining interior of an article carrier. The plurality of primary panels includes a first panel and a second panel opposing the first panel. The carrier further comprises a partition structure for dividing the interior into two or more article-receiving cells. The partition structure is formed from the first panel and comprises a lateral partition panel hingedly connected at a proximal end thereof to the first panel by a first fold line, a joint panel hingedly connected to a distal end portion of the lateral partition panel by a second fold line, and a glue panel hingedly connected to the joint panel by a third fold line. The joint panel is angled with respect to the distal end portion. The length of the joint panel is greater than the length of the end portion.

Optionally, the lateral partition panel has a length defined by a first distance extending between a first fold line and a distal end of the lateral partition panel and wherein the first distance is generally equal to a second distance between the first panel and a second panel.

Optionally, the second and third fold lines are substantially parallel to each other.

Optionally, the second fold line comprises a pair of intersecting tear stoppers and a weakened line disposed between the tear stoppers.

Optionally, the distal end of a lateral partition panel abuts against a second panel, so as to stabilise the position of the distal end, in cooperation with an angled joint panel.

Optionally, the lateral partition panel forms a brace between first and second panels.

Optionally, the carrier comprises at least two relief cuts, the relief cuts defining an area of a first panel therebetween, said area being a glue free area, unsecured to another panel of the carrier.

Optionally, the relief cuts and the glue free area create a displaceable region so as to create adjustability of the length of a lateral partition panel.

Optionally, the tubular structure is collapsible.

Optionally, the partition structure is automatically erected when the tubular structure is erected from a collapsed condition.

Optionally, the tubular structure comprises an end closed at least in part by one or more bottom panels.

Optionally, the second panel forms one of a pair of first and second opposed side panels for forming the tubular structure and wherein the first panel forms at least a part of a medial partition wall interposed parallel between the first and second side panels to divide the interior into two or more article-receiving cells, and a pair of end closure flaps which at least partially close one of opposed ends of the tubular structure, the end closure flaps comprising at least one press-activated locking feature for interconnecting the end closure flaps, wherein the medial partition wall comprises a backing edge extending alongside an inside surface of at least one of the end closure flaps, and wherein the backing edge of the medial partition wall has at least one recess defined therealong and arranged in registration with the at least one press-activated locking feature.

A press-activated locking feature may be received in a void between a first wall, such as a medial partition wall, and a second wall, such as an end closure flap. The first wall may define a first plane and the second wall may be define a second plane. The second plane may be orthogonal to the first plane. The void is defined in part by the at least one recess.

At least a portion of the press-activated locking feature may past through a cutaway in the first wall, medial partition wall, the cutaway defined in part by the at least one recess.

A third aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a plurality of primary panels for forming walls of a tubular structure defining an interior chamber. The plurality of primary panels includes a first panel and a second panel opposing the first panel. The blank further comprises a partition structure for dividing the interior into two or more article-receiving cells. The partition structure is formed from the first panel. The partition structure comprises a lateral partition panel hingedly connected at a proximal end thereof to the first panel by a first fold line, a joint panel hingedly connected to a distal end portion of the lateral partition panel by a second fold line, and a glue panel hingedly connected to the joint panel by a third fold line. The joint panel is configured to be angled with respect to the distal end portion in a setup carrier. The length of the joint panel is greater than the length of the end portion.

Optionally, the second panel forms one of a pair of first and second opposed side panels for forming the tubular structure; and wherein the first panel forms at least a part of a medial partition wall for being interposed parallel between the first and second side panels to divide the interior of the carrier into two or more article-receiving cells; and a pair of end closure flaps which at least partially close one of opposed ends of the tubular structure; the end closure flaps comprising at least one press-activated locking feature for interconnecting the end closure flaps, wherein the medial partition wall comprises a backing edge for extending alongside an inside surface of at least one of the end closure flaps in a setup condition, and wherein the backing edge of the medial partition wall has at least one recess defined therealong and arranged to be in registration with the at least one press-activated locking feature.

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

Features or elements described in connection with, or relation to, one embodiment may be applicable to all embodiments unless there is an incompatibility of features. The term "other embodiments" as used herein may refer to d article carriers of different configurations such as 1x <NUM>, 1x3, 1x4, 1x5, 2x2, 2x4, 2x5, etc..

Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of the package, blanks and cartons 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 cartons 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 to <FIG>, there is shown a plan view of a blank <NUM> capable of forming a carton or carrier <NUM>, as shown in <FIG>, for containing and carrying a group of primary products such as, but not limited to, bottles, hereinafter referred to as articles. The blank <NUM> forms a secondary package of the basket-carrier style for packaging at least one primary product container or package.

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 <NUM> 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. Other exemplary containers include bottles (for example metallic, glass or plastics bottles), cans (for example aluminium cans), tins, pouches, packets and the like.

The blank <NUM> is 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 structure or carton <NUM> 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 embodiment, the blank <NUM> is configured to form a carton or carrier <NUM> for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles. In the illustrated embodiments the arrangement is an m x n matrix or array, having two rows (m=<NUM>) and three columns (n=<NUM>); in the illustrated embodiment two rows of three articles are provided, and the articles are <NUM> bottles, the bottles may be formed from a suitable material such as, but not limited to, glass, Aluminium or PET (polyester - polyethylene terephthalate). Alternatively, the blank <NUM> can 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 for example, but not limited to, fully enclosed cartons or wrap-around carriers, the articles may be cups, pouches, pots or cans.

Turning to <FIG>, there is illustrated a blank <NUM> for forming a carton <NUM> (see <FIG>) according to a first embodiment. The blank <NUM> comprises a plurality of panels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> arranged in a linear series hinged one to the next by fold lines <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> respectively.

The blank <NUM> comprises a plurality of outer panels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> for forming a tubular structure. The plurality of outer panels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> comprises a first end panel <NUM>. A first side panel <NUM> is hingedly connected to the first end panel <NUM> by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line <NUM>. A second end panel <NUM> is hingedly connected to the first side panel <NUM> by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line <NUM>. A third end panel <NUM> is hingedly connected to the second end panel <NUM> by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line <NUM>. A second side panel <NUM> is hingedly connected to the third side panel <NUM> by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line <NUM> and a fourth end panel <NUM> is hingedly connected to the second side panel <NUM> by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line <NUM>.

The blank <NUM> comprises a first base panel 38a hinged to the first side panel <NUM> by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 37a. The blank <NUM> comprises a second base panel 38b hinged to the second side panel <NUM> by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 37b. The first and second base panels 38a, 38b are also referred to herein as end closure flaps since they close an end of the tubular structure formed by the plurality of outer panels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>.

The first and second base panels 38a, 38b are engageable with one another in an overlapping relationship to form a composite base wall 38a/38b of the carrier <NUM>. The blank <NUM> may comprise a complementary locking mechanism (also referred to as a press-activated locking feature) for securing the first base panel 38a to the second base panel 38b. The second base panel 38b may comprise at least one first part M of the complementary locking mechanism. The first base panel 38a may comprise at least one second part F of the complementary locking mechanism. In the illustrated embodiment, the second base panel 38b comprises four male tabs M struck therefrom so as to be defined within the f second base panel 38b. Each of the male tabs M is hingedly connected to the second base panel 38b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line.

The second part F of the complementary locking mechanism forms a receiver. The receiver comprises an opening or slot for receiving the male tab M.

The first base panel 38a comprises four optional female tabs each defining an opening or slot in the first base panel 38a; the female tabs forming at least part of the receiver.

The openings in the first base panel 38a are configured to receive respective ones of the male tabs M.

The female tabs F are arranged to be displaced out of the first base panel 38a to form said openings and to bear against the respective male tab M when received therein. In some embodiments the complementary locking mechanism M/F may be omitted, the first and second base panels 38a, 38b may be secured to each other by other means, such as but not limited to adhesive or staples.

Optionally, the first and second base panels 38a, 38b may comprise at least one first aperture A3. In the illustrated embodiment, the first base panel 38a comprises three first apertures A3 and the second base panel 38b comprises two first apertures A3.

Optionally, the second base panel 38b may comprise at least one second aperture A4. In the illustrated embodiment, the second base panel 38b comprises one second apertures A4.

The first and second apertures A3, A4 may be employed to facilitate construction of the carrier <NUM>. A packaging machine component or tool may engage with the first and second apertures A3, A4 to facilitate alignment of the first and second base panels 38a, 38b with respect to each other or to align the first part M of the complementary locking mechanism with the second part F of the complementary locking mechanism. The complementary locking mechanism illustrated and described is entirely optional.

The blank <NUM> may comprise a medial structure including a first medial panel <NUM> and a second medial panel <NUM>. Medial panels <NUM>, <NUM> are also referred to herein as intermediate panels.

The first medial panel <NUM> is hingedly connected at a first end of the plurality of outer panels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, to the first end panel <NUM>, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line <NUM>.

The second medial panel <NUM> is hingedly connected at a second, opposing, end of the plurality of outer panels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, to the fourth end panel <NUM>, by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line <NUM>.

The first and second medial panels <NUM>, <NUM> form a divider extending longitudinally between the end walls of the carrier <NUM>.

The first medial panel <NUM> provides a first handle panel portion 14A. The second medial panel <NUM> provides a second handle panel portion 28A. Together the first and second medial panels <NUM>, <NUM> provide a two-ply handle structure, the second ply reinforcing the first ply.

The first handle panel portion 14A comprises a first handle opening.

The first handle opening may be defined at least in part by a first handle aperture A2 struck from an upper portion of the first medial panel <NUM>.

The second handle panel portion 28A comprises a second handle opening.

The second handle opening may be defined at least in part by a second handle aperture A3 struck from, or defined within, an upper portion of the second medial panel <NUM>.

The second handle opening is arranged to be disposed in registry or alignment with the first handle opening in a setup condition.

The blank <NUM> comprises a securing panel in the form of a medial partition glue flap <NUM> hingedly connected to an end of the first medial panel <NUM> (said end opposes an opposing end of the first medial panel <NUM> to which the first end panel <NUM> is hingedly connected, defined by fold line <NUM>) by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line <NUM>. The fold line <NUM> may be interrupted by at least one cutaway in the form of an aperture A1, in the illustrated embodiment two apertures A1 interrupt fold line <NUM> so as to reduce the folding resistance.

Optionally, the blank comprises a handle reinforcing structure comprising a first and second handle reinforcing panels <NUM>, <NUM>.

The first handle reinforcing panel <NUM> is disposed adjacent to the second end panel <NUM> and to the first side panel <NUM>. First handle reinforcing panel <NUM> is separated from second end panel <NUM> by a first cutline. The first handle reinforcing panel <NUM> is separated from first side panel <NUM> by a second cutline.

The first handle reinforcing panel <NUM> is hingedly connected to second handle reinforcing panel <NUM> by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line <NUM>.

The second handle reinforcing panel <NUM> is disposed adjacent to the third end panel <NUM> and to the second side panel <NUM>. Second handle reinforcing panel <NUM> is separated from third end panel <NUM> by a third cutline. The second handle reinforcing panel <NUM> is separated from second side panel <NUM> by a fourth cutline. The second handle reinforcing panel <NUM> is connected to second end panel <NUM> at a first side edge of the second handle reinforcing panel <NUM> by a connecting portion in the form of a hinged connection collinearly arranged with fold line <NUM> and fold line <NUM>. The connecting portion <NUM> is sufficient to maintain the connection between the second handle reinforcing panel <NUM> and the second end panel <NUM> during handling of the blank <NUM> prior to assembly and optionally during at least a portion of the assembly process.

The handle structure comprises a first bridging panel <NUM>, the first bridging panel <NUM> is disposed adjacent to the first side panel <NUM> and is separated therefrom by the second cutline. A first side edge of the first bridging panel <NUM> is coupled to a side edge of the first handle reinforcing panel <NUM> by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line <NUM>. A second side edge of the first bridging panel <NUM> is coupled to a side edge of the first end panel <NUM> by a connecting portion in the form of a hinged connection collinearly arranged with fold line <NUM>. The connecting portion is sufficient to maintain the connection between the first bridging panel <NUM> and the first end panel <NUM> during handling of the blank <NUM> prior to assembly and optionally during at least a portion of the assembly process.

The handle structure comprises a second bridging panel <NUM>, the second bridging panel <NUM> is disposed adjacent to the second side panel <NUM> and is separated therefrom by the fourth cutline. A first side edge of the second bridging panel <NUM> is coupled to a side edge of the second handle reinforcing panel <NUM> by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line <NUM>. A second side edge of the second bridging panel <NUM> is coupled to a side edge of the fourth end panel <NUM> by a connecting portion in the form of a hinged connection collinearly arranged with fold line <NUM>. The connecting portion is sufficient to maintain the connection between the second bridging panel <NUM> and the fourth end panel <NUM> during handling of the blank <NUM> prior to assembly and optionally during at least a portion of the assembly process.

The first handle reinforcing panel <NUM> comprises a third handle opening. The third handle opening may be defined by an optional first cushioning flap <NUM> struck from the first handle reinforcing panel <NUM> and hinged thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line <NUM>. The first cushioning flap <NUM> defines at least a part of the third handle opening.

The second handle reinforcing panel <NUM> comprises a fourth handle opening. The fourth handle opening may be defined by an optional second cushioning flap <NUM> struck from the second handle reinforcing panel <NUM> and hinged thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line <NUM>. The second cushioning flap <NUM> defines at least a part of the first handle opening.

The third and fourth handle openings are arranged to be disposed in registry or alignment with the first and second handle openings in a setup carrier <NUM>.

Optionally, the blank <NUM> comprise a fold line <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> extending across a respective one of the end panel <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. Each fold line defines at least in part a foldable portion 16A, 20A, 22A, 26A disposed along a lower end of the respective one of the end panel <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. The foldable portion 16A, 20A, 22A, 26A may be defined in part by one or more cut lines 17A, 19A, 21A, 23A, 25A each of which is collinearly arranged with a respective one of the fold lines <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> hinging the outer panels together. In alternative embodiments, the fold lines <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> may be omitted.

The blank <NUM> may comprise a partition structure P1, P2 which defines or creates a plurality of cells disposed on one or both sides of the divider formed by first and second medial panels <NUM>, <NUM>.

The blank <NUM> comprises a first partition structure P1 best illustrated in <FIG>. The first partition structure P1 defines or creates a plurality of cells disposed between the first side panel <NUM> and the first medial panel <NUM>. The first partition structure P1 is defined in a first partition panel portion 14B provided by a lower portion of the first medial panel <NUM>.

The blank <NUM> comprises a second partition structure P2. The second partition structure P2 defines or creates a plurality of cells disposed between the second side panel <NUM> and the second medial panel <NUM>. The second partition structure P2 is defined in a second partition panel portion 28B provided by a lower portion of the second medial panel <NUM>.

The first side panel <NUM> and the second medial panel <NUM> along with the first and second end panels <NUM>, <NUM> define a tubular structure or first compartment on a first side of the medial structure or divider.

The second side panel <NUM>, the second medial panel <NUM> along with the third and fourth end panels <NUM>, <NUM> and a portion of the first medial panel <NUM> define a tubular structure or second compartment on a second side of the medial structure or divider.

The first compartment provides an interior for receiving at least a lower portion of one or more articles. The second compartment provides an interior for receiving at least a lower portion of one or more articles.

The first and second partition structures P1, P2 are substantially similar in construction, albeit the second partition structure P2 is a mirror image (in blank form) of the first partition structure P1. In this way the first and second partition structures P1, P2 are disposed substantially in registry with each other when the blank <NUM> is folded into a flat collapsed form (see <FIG>). The first and second partition structures P1, P2 will be described in further detail by reference to the first partition structure P1 as illustrated in <FIG>.

The first partition structure P1 comprises a first partition panel <NUM> struck from, or defined in, the first medial panel <NUM> and hingedly connected, at a first or proximal end, thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line <NUM>.

The first partition structure P1 comprises a second partition panel <NUM> struck from, or defined in, the first medial panel <NUM> and hingedly connected, at first or a proximal end, thereto by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line <NUM>.

The first and second partition panels <NUM>, <NUM> are dimensioned to extend, laterally, between the first medial panel <NUM> and the first side panel <NUM> in a set up condition.

The first partition structure P1 comprises a glue panel <NUM> to which the first and second partition panels <NUM>, <NUM> are each coupled by distal end joints.

The first partition panel <NUM> is hingedly connected, at a second or distal end, to a first end of the glue panel <NUM> by a hinged connection in the form of fold line <NUM>. Fold line <NUM> defines an outer end of the first partition panel <NUM>, fold line <NUM> defines an inner end of the first partition panel <NUM> a linear dimension is defined therebetween.

The second partition panel <NUM> is hingedly connected to a second end of the glue panel <NUM> by a hinged connection in the form of fold line <NUM>. The second partition panel <NUM> comprises an outer end, defined by a portion of cutline <NUM> which may be collinear, coincident or coextensive with the fold line <NUM> between the first medial panel <NUM> and the first end panel <NUM>. Fold line <NUM> is offset, inset from, the outer end of the second partition panel <NUM>. Fold line <NUM> defines an inner end of the second partition panel <NUM>. The outer end of the second partition panel <NUM> and the fold line <NUM> define a linear dimension L<NUM> therebetween.

The second partition panel <NUM> is separated from the glue panel <NUM> along or by a cut line or severance line <NUM>. The second partition panel <NUM> may be severably coupled to the glue panel <NUM> by one or more connecting portions or nicks which interrupt the cut line or severance line <NUM>.

The second partition panel <NUM> is separated from the glue panel <NUM> by a pair of cut lines or severance lines <NUM>, <NUM>. The glue panel <NUM> can be considered to be struck from or defined in, at least in part, the second partition panel <NUM>.

The glue panel <NUM> is defined in part by a further cutline <NUM> which is substantially 'C' or 'U' shaped. The further cutline <NUM> defines a part of the glue panel <NUM> which can be considered to be struck from or defined in, at least in part, the first partition panel <NUM>. The further cutline <NUM> defines a tab or extension of the glue panel <NUM> which interrupts the fold line <NUM> hinging the glue plane <NUM> to the first partition panel <NUM>.

The first partition structure P1 comprises a second substantially 'U' shaped cutline <NUM> defining a tab or projection <NUM> of the first medial panel <NUM> which is struck from or defined in the first partition panel <NUM>. The cutline <NUM> interrupts the fold line <NUM> hinging the first partition panel <NUM> to the first medial panel <NUM>.

Each end of the cutline <NUM> may extend beyond fold line <NUM> into the first medial panel <NUM> and may terminate with a "J' shaped cut.

A first end of cutline <NUM> may extend beyond fold line <NUM> into the first medial panel <NUM> and may terminate with a "J' shaped cut.

A second end of cutline <NUM> terminates in the second partition panel <NUM>, optionally the second end of cutline <NUM> terminates with a "C' shaped cut <NUM>.

The cut lines <NUM>, <NUM> form tear stoppers, structures which prevent or inhibit tears from propagating or initiating from the cut lines <NUM>, <NUM>.

A fold line <NUM> extends between the second end of cutline <NUM> and the second end of cutline <NUM>. The fold line <NUM> is arranged to be substantially parallel with fold line <NUM>. The fold line <NUM> is spaced apart from the outer end of the second partition panel <NUM>.

The glue panel <NUM> is hingedly connected to the second partition panel <NUM> by the fold line <NUM>. The glue panel <NUM> comprises further fold line <NUM>. The fold line <NUM> is arranged to be substantially parallel with fold line <NUM>, so as to define a connecting panel portion <NUM> (also referred to herein as joint panel <NUM>) coupling the glue panel <NUM> to the second partition panel <NUM>.

The first partition panel <NUM> and glue panel <NUM> are defined in part by cut line or severance line <NUM>.

The first partition panel <NUM> is separated from the first medial panel <NUM> by portions of the cut lines <NUM>, <NUM> and by cutline <NUM>.

The glue panel <NUM> is separated from the second partition panel <NUM> by portions of the cut lines <NUM>, <NUM>.

The second partition panel <NUM> is separated from the first medial panel <NUM> by the cut line <NUM>.

The fold line <NUM> defines, at least in part an end portion or region <NUM> of the second partition panel <NUM>. The end portion <NUM> may be defined between the fold line <NUM> and the portion of the cut line <NUM> which is coextensive with the fold line <NUM>.

In some embodiments, see <FIG>, the end portion <NUM> is disposed substantially perpendicular to the respective one of the first and second side panels (second side panel <NUM> is shown in <FIG>) to which the partition structure P1, P2 is secured.

The joint panel <NUM> is obliquely oriented, or non-parallel, with respect to the respective one of the first and second side panels (second side panel <NUM> is shown in <FIG>) to which the partition structure P1, P2 is secured.

In this way the joint panel <NUM> is divergently arranged with respect to the respective one of the first and second side panel.

In other embodiments, see <FIG>, the end portion <NUM>' is obliquely angled with respect to the respective one of the first and second side panels (second side panel <NUM>' is shown in <FIG>) to which the partition structure P1, P2 is secured. The end portion <NUM>' is obliquely angled with respect to the remainder of the second partition panel <NUM>'. The cut lines <NUM>, <NUM> (not shown in <FIG>) provide relief features enabling ends of the end portion <NUM>' to twist or otherwise deform. The relief features enable the end portion <NUM>' to transition, without tearing, between the obliquely angled section <NUM>' to an upper or lower limb 68A, 68B (see <FIG>) which is substantially perpendicularly oriented with respect to the respective one of the first and second side panels to which the partition structure P1, P2 is secured.

The joint panel <NUM>' is obliquely oriented with respect to the respective one of the first and second side panels (second side panel <NUM>' is shown in <FIG>) to which the partition structure P1, P2 is secured.

In some embodiments, see <FIG>, the joint panel <NUM> defines part of a right-angled triangle, the joint panel <NUM> defining the hypotenuse of the right-angled triangle.

The end portion <NUM> ha a length or width dimension W<NUM>, the width dimension W<NUM> may be <NUM> in some embodiments. The joint panel <NUM> has a first linear dimension, length or width, W<NUM> defined between fold line <NUM> and fold line <NUM>, the second linear dimension W<NUM> may be about <NUM>. The joint panel <NUM> and the side panel <NUM> define an angle θ<NUM> therebetween, in some embodiments the angle θ<NUM> may be <NUM>°, as illustrated in <FIG>.

The width dimension W<NUM> of the end portion <NUM> may define the distance of the fold line <NUM> from the side panel <NUM>, <NUM>.

The first linear dimension W<NUM> of the end portion <NUM> may be less than the second linear dimension W<NUM> of the joint panel <NUM>, (W<NUM> < W<NUM>).

The joint panel <NUM> and the end portion <NUM> define a second angle θ<NUM> therebetween. The side panel <NUM> and the end portion <NUM> define a third angle θ<NUM> therebetween.

The second angle θ<NUM> may be greater than, or not equal to, zero degrees (θ<NUM> > <NUM>°) (θ<NUM> ≠ <NUM>°). The third angle θ<NUM> may be greater than the first angle θ<NUM> (θ<NUM> > θ<NUM>).

In other embodiments, see <FIG>, the joint panel <NUM>' and side panel <NUM>' define an angle θ<NUM>' therebetween, the angle θ<NUM>' may be less than <NUM>°.

The joint panel <NUM> defines a glue-free region along an end edge of the glue panel <NUM>.

The second partition panel <NUM> is hinged to the first medial panel <NUM> by fold line <NUM>, fold line <NUM> and the portion of the cut line <NUM> which is coextensive with the fold line <NUM> define a third linear dimension, length or width, L<NUM> of second partition panel <NUM>.

The first end panel <NUM> comprises a fourth linear dimension, length or width, L<NUM> defined between fold line <NUM> and fold line <NUM>.

The third linear dimension L<NUM> is substantially equal to the fourth linear dimension L<NUM>.

The fold line <NUM> providing the hinged connection between the second partition panel <NUM> and the first medial panel <NUM> is spaced apart from, or located at, a distance the fold line <NUM> equal to the third linear dimension L<NUM>.

The fourth linear dimension L<NUM> substantially defines the distance separating the first medial panel <NUM> and the first sidewall <NUM> of the carrier <NUM>.

In other embodiments the tear stoppers, cut lines <NUM>, <NUM>, may be replaced by an alternative element. The element may take the form of a cutaway, extending in at least one of the second partition panel <NUM> and the glue panel <NUM>. The element may be a cutline. The element may be a nonlinear cutline or may be comprised of two or more divergently arranged linear cut lines. The element may be arcuate or curvilinear. In other embodiments the element may be an aperture, slot, slit, oval slot or frangible line. In the embodiment illustrated in <FIG> the element is a curved element and extends into both the second partition panel <NUM> and the glue panel <NUM>. The curved element comprises at least one terminal end which is spaced apart from an adjacent end edge of the end portion <NUM> provided by the end edge of the second partition panel <NUM>.

By providing a pair of elements spaced apart from each other, the joint panel <NUM> may rotate out of the plane of the second partition panel <NUM>. In this way, a hinge is created between the joint panel <NUM> and the second partition panel <NUM>.

The hinge may be resiliently biased, due to the inherent resilience of the substrate.

The hinge may provide resistance to tearing or severance of the joint panel <NUM> from the second partition panel <NUM>. For example, when load forces cause movement of the side walls <NUM>, <NUM> in an outward direction or to allow movement of the joint panel <NUM> towards a coplanar arrangement with the remainder of the glue panel <NUM>.

The second partition panel <NUM> may comprise an upper limb 68A and a lower limb 68B. The upper and lower limbs 68A, 68B extend from the first medial panel <NUM> to the first side wall in a set up carrier <NUM>. The upper and lower limbs 68A, 68B are coupled or interconnected by the end portion <NUM>. In this way the second partition panel <NUM> may be substantially 'C' shaped or 'U' shaped.

The cut lines <NUM>, <NUM> may provide stress relief elements which prevent or inhibit propagation or initiation of tears in the substrate when the end portion <NUM> is twisted or rotated with respect to the upper and lower limbs 68A, 68B.

The blank <NUM> is foldable to form a package <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG>.

Turning to the construction of the carton <NUM> as illustrated in <FIG>, the carton <NUM> can be formed by a series of sequential folding operations in a straight-line machine so that the carton <NUM> is not required to be rotated or inverted to complete its construction. The folding process is not limited to that described below and may be altered according to particular manufacturing requirements.

Glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to the third end panel <NUM> proximate the fold line <NUM>. Alternatively, glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to the medial partition glue flap <NUM>.

Glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to the glue panel <NUM> of the first partition structure P1, the joint panel <NUM> is glue free. Alternatively, glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to a corresponding region of the first side panel <NUM>.

Glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to the first bridging panel <NUM>. Alternatively, glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to a corresponding region of the first end panel <NUM>.

Glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to the first handle reinforcing panel <NUM>. Alternatively, glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to a corresponding region of the first handle panel portion 14A.

The first medial panel <NUM> and the first end panel <NUM> are folded, with respect to the first side panel <NUM> about fold line <NUM>, as indicated by direction arrow D1 shown in <FIG>. The first medial panel <NUM> is brought into face contacting relationship with a portion of the first side panel <NUM> and the second end panel <NUM>, the first end panel <NUM> is brought into face contacting relationship with a portion of the first side panel <NUM>. The medial partition glue flap <NUM> is secured to the third end panel <NUM> in face contacting relationship therewith.

The glue panel <NUM> of the first partition structure P1 is secured to the first side panel <NUM>.

The first bridging panel <NUM> is secured to the first end panel <NUM>. The first handle reinforcing panel <NUM> is secured to the first handle panel portion 14A.

Glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to the glue panel <NUM> of the second partition structure P2, the joint panel <NUM> is glue free. Alternatively, glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to a corresponding region of the second side panel <NUM>.

Glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to the second bridging panel <NUM>. Alternatively, glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to a corresponding region of the fourth end panel <NUM>.

Glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to the second handle reinforcing panel <NUM>. Alternatively, glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to a corresponding region of the second handle panel portion 28A.

The second medial panel <NUM> and the fourth end panel <NUM> are folded, with respect to the second side panel <NUM> about fold line <NUM>, as indicated by direction arrow D2 shown in <FIG>. The second medial panel <NUM> is brought into face contacting relationship with a portion of the second side panel <NUM> and the third end panel <NUM>, the fourth end panel <NUM> is brought into face contacting relationship with a portion of the second side panel <NUM>.

The glue panel <NUM> of the second partition structure P2 is secured to the second side panel <NUM>.

The second bridging panel <NUM> is secured to the fourth end panel <NUM>. The second handle reinforcing panel <NUM> is secured to the second handle panel portion 28A.

Glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to the first medial panel <NUM>, the first and second partition panel <NUM>, <NUM> and the glue panel <NUM> are glue free. Alternatively, glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to corresponding regions of the second medial panel <NUM>.

The second end panel <NUM>, together with the first side panel <NUM>, the first medial panel <NUM> and the first end panel <NUM>, are folded about the fold line <NUM> to bring the first medial panel <NUM> into face to face relationship with the second medial panel <NUM> as indicated by direction arrow D3 in <FIG>.

The first medial panel <NUM> is secured to the second medial panel <NUM>.

In this way a flat collapsed tubular structure is formed.

A flat collapsed carrier is thereby formed, as shown in <FIG>, the flat collapsed carrier can be readily shipped or distributed in the flat condition to a plant for erecting and loading with primary product containers.

The flat collapsed carrier can be opened into a basket-style article carrier by separating the first and second side panels <NUM>, <NUM> to form a tubular structure defined by the outer panels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. The outer panels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> define an interior chamber. The partition structures P1, P2 are automatically erected when the flat collapsed carrier is opened out or erected into the tubular form.

Once the carrier <NUM> is erected, the first and second medial panels <NUM>, <NUM> form a partition, that is disposed medially within the interior of the carrier <NUM> formed by the outer panels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. The partition divides the interior of the carrier <NUM> into two separate compartments on opposing sides of the first and second medial panels <NUM>, <NUM>.

The first partition structure P1 is automatically erected to form a first plurality of cells in a first compartment disposed on a first side of the first and second medial panels <NUM>, <NUM>.

The second partition structure P2 is automatically erected to form a second plurality of cells in a second compartment disposed on a second side of the first and second medial panels <NUM>, <NUM>.

The carrier <NUM> may be loaded with a group of articles; in the embodiment illustrated in <FIG> six articles (not shown) are arranged in a <NUM> x <NUM> array.

The group of articles may be loaded through a lower end of the tubular structure formed by the outer panels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> prior to folding the first and second base panel 38a, 38b. Alternatively, the group of articles may be loaded through an upper end of the tubular structure subsequent to assembly of the composite base panel 38a, 38b.

The first base panel 38A is folded with respect to the first side panel <NUM> about fold line 37A. The second base panel 38B is folded with respect to the second side panel <NUM> about fold line 37B. The second base panel 38B is brought into face contacting relationship with the first base panel 38A. The second base panel 38B is disposed in at least partial overlapping relationship with the first base panel 38A.

Each of the first parts M of the complementary locking mechanism is aligned with a respective one of the second parts F of the complementary locking mechanism. The first parts M of the complementary locking mechanism are folded inwardly of the interior of the carrier such that they are received by the second parts F of the complementary locking mechanism, when the second parts F of the complementary locking mechanism comprises female tabs these are also folded inwardly and may bear against the first parts M of the complementary locking mechanism.

The first and second medial partition panels <NUM>, <NUM> each comprise at least one recess or cutaway for enabling the complementary locking mechanism to be assembled. The first medial partition panel <NUM> comprise four recesses R1, R2, R3, R4 defined in a lower free edge thereof and includes: first recess R1, second recess R2, third recess R3 and fourth recess R4. The second medial partition panel <NUM> comprise three recesses R5, R6, R7 defined in a lower free edge thereof and includes fifth recess R5, sixth recess R6 and seventh recess R7.

Each of the recesses R1, R2, R3, R4 provided by the first medial panel <NUM> is arranged to be disposed in registry, or at least partially aligned, with one of the recesses R5, R6, R7 provided by the second medial panel <NUM>.

Fourth recess R4 is arranged to be disposed in registry with fifth recess R5. Sixth recess R6 is arranged to be disposed in registry with third recess R3 Seventh recess R7 is arranged to be at least partially aligned with second recess R2.

The second medial panel <NUM> may be shorter in length in the longitudinal direction of the carrier <NUM> than the first medial panel <NUM>. An end portion of the first medial panel <NUM> providing the first recess R1 may be single ply, the second medial panel <NUM> does not obstruct, obscure or otherwise interfere with the first recess R1.

In this way the divider <NUM>/<NUM> formed from the first and second medial partition panels <NUM>, <NUM> comprises at least one cutaway extending therethrough. The divider <NUM>/<NUM> comprises a plurality of cutaways, in the illustrated embodiment four cutaways are provided. <FIG> illustrate a first cutaway R4/R5, second cutaway R3/R6 and third cutaway R2/R7. The first recess R1 forms a fourth cutaway in the divider (not shown in <FIG>).

The cutaways define voids between the base wall 38A/38B and the divider <NUM>/<NUM>, the <NUM>/<NUM> is a wall orthogonally oriented with respect to the base wall 38A/38B.

The cutaways provide clearance for the complementary locking mechanism M/F to be set up. Each of the cutaways is arranged to be vertically aligned with one of the four male tabs M and with the corresponding female tab or receiver F when the first and second base panel 38A, 38B are folded about fold lines 37A, 37B to close the lower end of the tubular structure formed by the outer panels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. The cutaways enable the divider <NUM>/<NUM> to extend substantially from the base wall 38A/38B of the carrier <NUM> through the tubular structure formed by the outer panels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>. The lowermost edge of the divider <NUM>/<NUM> may be in contact, or at least in close proximity to the base wall 38A/38B.

The divider <NUM>/<NUM> may extend towards the base wall 38A/38B so as to be below the upper extremity of the male tabs M when folded into an engaged or securing condition, best illustrated in <FIG>.

The lowermost edge of the divider <NUM>/<NUM> may provide an end stop limiting travel of the first and or second base panel 38A, 38B when being folded into a closing condition.

The present disclosure provides an article carrier <NUM> comprising a plurality of primary panels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> forming a tubular structure defining an interior of the article carrier <NUM>. The plurality of primary panels includes: a first panel <NUM>, <NUM>; and a second panel <NUM>, <NUM> opposing the first panel <NUM>, <NUM>. The carrier <NUM> further comprises a partition structure P1, P2 dividing the interior into two or more article-receiving cells. The partition structure P1, P2 is formed from, or defined in, the first panel <NUM>, <NUM> and comprises: a lateral partition panel <NUM> hingedly connected at a proximal end thereof to the first panel <NUM>, <NUM> by a first fold line <NUM>, a joint panel <NUM> hingedly connected to a distal end portion <NUM> of the lateral partition panel <NUM> by a second fold line <NUM>; and a glue panel <NUM> hingedly connected to the joint panel <NUM> by a third fold line <NUM>. The joint panel <NUM> is angled with respect to the distal end portion <NUM> and wherein the length W<NUM> of the joint panel <NUM> is greater than the length W<NUM> of the end portion <NUM>.

The lateral partition panel <NUM> has a length defined by a first distance L<NUM> extending between the first fold line <NUM> and a distal end of the lateral partition panel <NUM> and wherein the first distance L<NUM> is generally equal to a second distance L<NUM> between the first panel <NUM>, <NUM> and the second panel <NUM>, <NUM>.

The second and third fold lines <NUM>, <NUM> are substantially parallel to each other.

The second fold line <NUM> comprises a pair of intersecting tear stoppers <NUM>, <NUM> and a weakened line <NUM> (a cut or half cut) disposed between the tear stoppers <NUM>, <NUM>.

Advantageously, the distal end of the lateral partition panel <NUM> (including the outer edge of the end portion <NUM> is operable to be in abutment against the second panel <NUM>, <NUM>. This stabilises the position of the distal end of the lateral partition panel <NUM> in cooperation with the angled joint panel <NUM>, which in turn enables the lateral partition panel <NUM> to effectively brace between the first panel <NUM>, <NUM> and the second panel <NUM>, <NUM>.

The severance or cut lines <NUM>, <NUM> and <NUM> comprise relief cuts in the form of cut lines extensions 73A, 61A, 61B 75A.

The cut lines extensions 73A, 61A define at least in part a first area GF<NUM> of the first panel <NUM>, <NUM>.

The cut lines extensions 75A, 61B define at least in part a second area GF<NUM> of the first panel <NUM>,.

The areas GF<NUM>, GF<NUM> of the first panel <NUM>, <NUM> between the relief cuts are not glued to other areas of the carton (e.g. another medial or handle panel). The combination of the relief cuts and the non-glued areas GF<NUM>, GF<NUM> may give effective tolerance/flexibility to the length L<NUM> of the lateral partition panel <NUM>.

The present disclosure may also provide an article carrier <NUM> comprising a plurality of primary panels <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM> defining an interior of the article carrier <NUM>. The plurality of primary panels include: first and second opposed side panels <NUM>, <NUM> for forming a tubular structure, a medial partition wall <NUM>, <NUM> interposed parallel between the first and second side panels to divide the interior into two or more article-receiving cells, and a pair of end closure flaps 38A, 38B which at least partially close one of opposed ends of the tubular structure. The end closure flaps 38A, 38B comprise at least one press-activated locking feature M for interconnecting the end closure flaps 38A, 38B. The medial partition wall <NUM>, <NUM> comprises a backing edge extending alongside an inside surface of at least one of the end closure flaps 38A, 38B. The backing edge of the medial partition wall <NUM>, <NUM> has at least one recess R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, R6, R7 defined therealong and arranged in registration with the at least one press-activated locking feature M, best illustrated in <FIG>.

An advantage of the present disclosure is that the first partition structure comprises a reduced footprint, that is to say, it occupies less area of the blank. The first partition structure may also comprise a reduced linear dimension, in the longitudinal direction. In this way the first partition structure may be struck from within the first medial panel, the second partition structure may be struck from within the second medial panel.

The first/second partition structure may extend up to an edge of the first/second medial panel without extending beyond the edge of the first/second medial panel. In some embodiments this has the benefit that a panel adjacent to the first/second medial panel and hinged thereto is not interrupted or broken by the first/second partition structure, this may have structural benefits or aesthetic benefits or both.

Additionally, or alternatively, this may be beneficial when constructing the blank into a carrier, in particular into the flat collapsed carrier, such as that illustrated in <FIG>. Construction of the blank into the carrier may be more readily automated. The reduction in size of the first/second partition structure may reduce the likelihood of the blank colliding with, catching upon, or otherwise unintentionally engaging with a part of a packaging machine, thus avoiding or mitigating against the blank becoming entangled, trapped, misfed or misaligned during the assembly process.

It can be appreciated that various changes may be made within the scope of the present invention which is defined by the appended set of claims. For example, the size and shape of the panels and apertures may be adjusted to accommodate articles of differing size or shape. The present invention is not limited to cartons of the basket carrier style, the invention may be employed with other carton styles such as, but not limited to, open top crates, lidded or closed top crates and fully enclosed cartons.

In one embodiment the medial panel may omitted, the partition structure may be formed from a first one of a pair of opposing wall panels, the opposing wall panels defining in part an interior of the carrier. The partition structure may divide the interior into two or more article receiving cells. The partition structure may comprise a lateral partition panel hingedly connected at a proximal end to said first one of the opposing wall panels by proximal end fold line and at its distal end to a glue panel by a distal end joint. The distal end connection between the lateral partition panel and the glue panel comprises a twistable end portion extending between and joined with the lateral partition panel and the glue panel. The lateral partition panel may have a length defined by a first distance defined between the proximal end fold line of the lateral partition panel and a distal end edge of the first lateral partition panel. The first distance may generally equal to a second distance defined between the first panel the second panel.

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, 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 or a severance line or both. 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.

Claim 1:
An article carrier (<NUM>) comprising a plurality of primary panels (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) for forming a tubular structure and defining interior of an article carrier (<NUM>), the plurality of primary panels (<NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>, <NUM>) including:
a first panel (<NUM>, <NUM>); and
a second panel (<NUM>, <NUM>) opposing the first panel (<NUM>, <NUM>);
wherein the carrier (<NUM>) further comprises a partition structure (P1, P2) for dividing the interior into two or more article-receiving cells, the partition structure (P1, P2) being formed from the first panel (<NUM>, <NUM>) and comprising:
a lateral partition panel (<NUM>) hingedly connected at a proximal end thereof to the first panel (<NUM>, <NUM>) by a first fold line (<NUM>); characterised by
a joint panel (<NUM>) hingedly connected to a distal end portion (<NUM>) of the lateral partition panel (<NUM>) by a second fold line (<NUM>); and
a glue panel (<NUM>) hingedly connected to the joint panel (<NUM>) by a third fold line (<NUM>);
wherein the joint panel (<NUM>) is angled with respect to the distal end portion (<NUM>) and wherein the length (W2) of the joint panel (<NUM>) is greater than the length (W1) of the end portion (<NUM>).