Patent ID: 12221254

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

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENTS

The present disclosure generally relates to constructs, wraps, carriers, sleeves, cartons, or the like, and packages for holding and displaying articles such as containers, product holding containers, trays, tubs, packets, pouches, bags, boxes, etc. The articles can be used for packaging food and beverage products, personal care products, hardware, and/or stationery items for example. The articles can be made from materials suitable in composition for packaging the particular food or beverage item, and the materials include, but are not limited to, plastics such as PET, LDPE, LLDPE, HDPE, PP, PS, PVC, EVOH, and Nylon; paperboard and/or other paper products; glass and the like; aluminum and/or other metals; or any combination thereof.

Constructs according to the present disclosure can accommodate articles of numerous different shapes. For the purpose of illustration and not for the purpose of limiting the scope of the disclosure, the following detailed description describes tubs (e.g., plastic trays sealed with plastic films) and/or packets at least partially disposed within the carrier embodiments. In this specification, the terms “lower,” “bottom,” “upper,” “top,” “outer,” and “inner” indicate orientations determined in relation to fully erected constructs or packages.

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

FIG.1is a plan view of a carton blank101used to form a construct or carton or wrap103(FIGS.2-7) of a first exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.FIG.1shows an exterior or printed side104of the blank101. As shown by way of example inFIGS.3-7, the wrap103can be used to hold one or more containers C (e.g., a first container C1and a second container C2) to form a package105that includes the wrap103and the containers C1, C2. For example, as shown inFIGS.4-7, the wrap103can be configured to hold two containers C. Alternatively, the wrap103can be configured to receive or hold any suitable number of containers C. In one embodiment, the containers C can be sealed trays or tubs that hold respective food products, such as sauces, dips, spreads, toppings, etc. and/or chips, pretzels, etc., or any other food products or other products that are to be stored, shipped, displayed, sold, dispensed, etc., together. As shown inFIGS.2-7, the wrap103can form at least a first or bottom portion106(e.g., a tray portion) with a first or bottom container holder107(e.g., a bottom compartment) and a second or top portion108(e.g., a cover portion) with a second or top container holder109(e.g., a top compartment) for at least partially retaining the respective containers C1, C2. In the illustrated embodiment, the features of the wrap103that form the bottom container holder107form a bottom compartment107for holding the first container C1and the features that form the top container holder109can at least partially retain the second container C2(e.g., against the top of the wrap103).

As shown inFIG.1, the carton blank101has a longitudinal axis L1and a lateral axis L2. The blank101includes a first or lower portion111for forming the tray portion106and the bottom compartment107and a second or upper portion113for forming the cover portion108and the top container holder109. As shown inFIG.1, the blank103can include a central panel or bottom panel121foldably connected to a first side panel123aalong a fold line125aand a second side panel123balong a fold line125b. A front panel127is foldably connected to the bottom panel121along a lateral fold line129and a back panel131is foldably connected to the bottom panel121along a lateral fold line133. In the illustrated embodiment, the blank101further can include a top panel135foldably connected to the back panel131along a lateral fold line137and a closure panel139foldably connected to the top panel135along a lateral fold line141. Any of the bottom panel121, the side panels123a,123b, the front panel127, the back panel131, the top panel135, and/or the closure panel139could be omitted or could be otherwise shaped, arranged, configured, and/or positioned without departing from the disclosure.

As shown inFIG.1, the blank101further includes a plurality of glue panels including a first front glue panel143aand a second front glue panel143bfoldably connected to opposite sides of the front panel127along respective longitudinal fold lines145a,145b. The plurality of glue panels further can include a first back glue panel147aand a first top glue panel149afoldably connected to the respective back panel131and top panel135along a longitudinal fold line151aand a second back glue panel147band a second top glue panel149bfoldably connected to the respective back panel131and top panel135along a longitudinal fold line151b. In the illustrated embodiment, the back glue panels147a,147bare foldably connected to the respective top glue panels149a,149balong respective lateral fold lines153a,153b. The first glue panels143a,147a,149aand the first side panel123aextend along a first marginal area of the blank101and the second glue panels143b,145b,147band the second side panel123bextend along a second marginal area of the blank101. The longitudinal fold lines145a,145b,151a,151bmay be, for example, at least partially straight (e.g., substantially, generally, somewhat, and/or approximately straight) or offset at one or more locations to account for blank thickness or for other factors.

As shown inFIG.1, the longitudinal fold lines145a,145bextend from respective ends of the lateral fold line129to an edge of the blank103and the longitudinal fold lines151a,151bextend from respective ends of the lateral fold line133to an opposing edge of the blank103. In the illustrated embodiment, the fold lines125a,125bare at least partially U-shaped (e.g., somewhat, substantially, generally, approximately U-shaped) fold lines. Accordingly, in one embodiment, the first side panel123ais foldably connected to the bottom panel121along a longitudinal segment of the U-shaped fold line125aand to the first front glue panel143aand the first back glue panel147aalong respective oblique segments of the U-shaped fold line125a, and the second side panel123bis foldably connected to the bottom panel121along a longitudinal segment of the U-shaped fold line125band to the second front glue panel143band the second back glue panel147balong respective oblique segments of the U-shaped fold lines125b. In one embodiment, the vertices formed at the intersections of the lateral fold line129and the longitudinal fold lines145a,145band at the intersections of the lateral fold line133and the longitudinal fold lines151a,151bare spaced apart from the U-shaped fold lines125a,125b. Any of the fold lines, the glue panels, and/or the side panels could be omitted or could be otherwise shaped, arranged, configured, and/or positioned without departing from the disclosure. For example, one or more of the fold lines129,133,145a,145b,151a,151bcould intersect with either or both of the U-shaped fold lines123a,123b.

In the illustrated embodiment, the blank103can include side or top flaps155a,155bfoldably connected to the respective top glue panels149a,149balong respective curved fold lines157a,157b. As shown inFIG.1, the top flaps155a,155bcan extend adjacent to respective cutouts159a,159bin the respective top glue panels149a,149band can be at least partially separable from the respective top glue panels149a,149balong respective cuts161, which can extend from the respective ends of the curved fold lines157a,157bto the respective cutouts159a,159b. Any of the top flaps155a,155band/or the cutouts159a,159bcould be omitted or could be otherwise shaped, arranged, configured, and/or positioned without departing from the disclosure.

In the illustrated embodiment, the blank103can include closure features for helping to retain the wrap103in a closed position or configuration (FIGS.5-7). As shown inFIG.1, the closure features can include the closure panel139, a closure tab163foldably connected to the closure panel139along a lateral fold line165, and a slit167interrupting the lateral fold line129, wherein the slit167can be at least partially defined between the front panel127and the bottom panel121. In one embodiment, the front panel127can be at least partially separable from the bottom panel121along the slit167and at least a portion of the slit167can be offset from the fold line129. In the illustrated embodiment, the slit167and the closure tab163can be sized so that the closure tab163can be inserted through the slit167when the wrap103is in a closed configuration. In one embodiment, edges of the closure tab163can engage the front panel127adjacent the slit167to help retain the wrap103in the closed configuration. Any of the closure features could be omitted or could be otherwise shaped, arranged, configured, and/or positioned without departing from the disclosure.

As shown inFIG.1, the blank103can include openings169in the bottom panel121, the back panel131, and the top panel135. In one embodiment, the openings169can form windows that allow the containers C1, C2to be visible from the exterior of the wrap103(e.g., so that the containers, labels on the containers, and/or product in the containers are visible such as for inspection by a potential consumer). For example, one or both of the containers C1, C2can be at least partially formed by transparent materials so that the contents of the containers are visible through the openings169and the transparent materials of the containers C1, C2. In addition, as shown inFIG.1, the blank101can include surface features, such as an embossed feature171in the top panel135. In one embodiment, the embossed feature171, the openings169, and/or other surface features can help distinguish the package105on a store shelf and/or can help accentuate text and/or graphics printed on the wrap103, for example. The openings169and/or the surface features on the blank101could be omitted or could be otherwise shaped, arranged, configured, and/or positioned without departing from the disclosure. For example, in one alternative embodiment, the opening169in the back panel131is omitted.

In one embodiment, the lower portion111can include at least a portion of at least the bottom panel121, the side panels123a,123b, the front panel127, and the front glue panels143a,143band the upper portion113can include at least a portion of at least the top panel135, the top glue panels149a,149b, and the top flaps155a,155b. The blank101could be otherwise shaped, arranged, configured, and/or positioned without departing from the disclosure.

Referring additionally toFIGS.2-7, formation of the wrap103from the blank101and the formation of the package105from the blank101and the wrap103and the containers C1, C2according to one embodiment of the disclosure will be described. In the illustrated embodiment, the blank101can be oriented with the exterior surface104facing downwardly and glue can be applied to the glue panels143a,147a,149a,143b,147b,149band/or to front panel127, the back panel131, and the top panel135. In one exemplary embodiment, the glue can be applied to the interior surface of the glue panels143a,147a,149a,143b,147b,149bin the form of glue strips G (shown in dashed lines inFIG.1since the glue strips G are hidden in this view). Alternatively, the glue could be otherwise positioned on the blank or omitted without departing from the disclosure.

As shown inFIG.2, the wrap103can be formed from the blank101by folding the side panels123a,123balong the longitudinal portions of the respective fold lines125a,125band folding the front glue panels143a,143b,147a,149a,147b,149balong the respective longitudinal fold lines145a,145b,151a,151bso that the side panels123a,123band the glue panels143a,143b,147a,147b,149a,149bat least partially overlap the bottom panel121, the front panel127, the back panel131, and the top panel135. In the illustrated embodiment, the front glue panels143a,143bcan be glued in face-to-face contact with the front panel127, the back glue panels147a,147bare glued in face-to-face contact with the back panel131, and the top glue panels149a,149bare glued in face-to-face contact with the top panel135with the glue strips G. In the illustrated embodiment at least a portion of each of the bottom panel121, the side panels123a,123b, the front panel127, and the back panel131can at least partially form the tray portion106, and the top panel135, the glue panels149a,149b, and the top panels155a,155bcan at least partially form the cover portion108. As shown inFIG.2, the wrap103is in a flat configuration that can facilitate stacking the formed wrap103for efficient storage and/or shipping prior to loading the containers C1, C2into the wrap103.

In the illustrated embodiment, the wrap103can be moved from the flat configuration (FIG.2) to an open configuration (FIGS.3and4), wherein the side panels123a,123bcan fold along the U-shaped fold lines125a,125bto pivot at least partially away from the bottom panel121and to at least partially form the bottom compartment107for receiving the container C1in the wrap103as shown inFIG.3. In one embodiment, the side panels123a,123bcan bend and/or flex along at least a portion of their lengths as they are folded upwardly from the bottom panel121(e.g.,FIGS.3-7). As shown inFIG.4, container C1can be positioned on the bottom panel121between the side panels123a,123b, which can at least partially engage/contact the sides of the container C1(e.g., extending under a rim R1of the container C1) to help retain the container C1in the bottom compartment107. In one embodiment, folding the side panels123a,123bupwardly from the bottom panel121can cause the front panel127and the back panel131to at least partially fold upwardly with respect to the bottom panel121. The front panel127and the back panel131further can help retain the container C1in the bottom compartment107when the wrap103is in the open configuration and/or in a closed configuration (FIGS.5-7). In one embodiment, the bottom panel121, the side panels123a,123b, and at least portion of the front panel127and the back panel131can at least partially form the bottom compartment107in the tray portion106.

As shown inFIGS.3and4, a rim R2of the container C2can be inserted at least partially between the top glue panels149a,149band the top panel135(e.g., between unglued portions of the top glue panels149a,149band the top panel135, outside the glue strips G). In one embodiment, the top flaps155a,155bcan be folded along the curved fold lines157a,157bat least partially away from the top panel135and can engage the sides of the container C2to help retain the container C2in the top compartment109. Accordingly, the top glue panels149a,149b, the top panel135, and the top flaps155a,155bcan at least partially form the top container holder109in the cover portion108. In an exemplary embodiment, the containers C1, C2can be inserted into the compartments after the glue panels143a,143b,147a,147b,149a,149bare glued to the panels127,131,135as described above or the containers C1, C2can be aligned with the respective bottom panel121and top panel135before the glue panels are folded and glued to the front panel, the back panel, and the top panel and the compartments/container holders107,109can be formed around portions of the respective containers C1, C2as the glue panels and the side panels123a,123bare folded into position to form the wrap103. The compartments/container holders107,109could be otherwise formed and/or the containers C1, C2could be otherwise loaded into the compartments/container holders107,109without departing from the disclosure.

As shown inFIGS.5-7, the wrap103can be moved to the closed configuration by folding along the lateral fold lines129,133,137153a,153band the oblique segments of the U-shaped fold lines125a,125bso that the front panel127and the back panel131extend at least partially upwardly from the bottom panel121and the top panel135extends opposite to the bottom panel121. The top container holder109can be positioned above the bottom compartment107and the bottom of the container C2can be positioned above the top of the container C1(e.g., so that the container C1at least partially supports the container C2). As shown inFIGS.5-7, the container C1can be at least partially received in and held by the bottom compartment107and the container C2can be at least partially received by the wrap103between the container C1and the top panel135and can be at least partially received in and held by the top container holder109. In some embodiments, the front panel127and/or the back panel131can be at least partially angled with respect to vertical and/or at least partially curved between the bottom panel121and the top panel135. As shown inFIG.6, the closure panel139can be folded downwardly from the top panel135along the lateral fold line141so that the closure panel139at least partially overlaps the front panel127. In the illustrated embodiment, the closure tab163can be folded along the lateral fold line165and inserted into the slit167as the closure panel139is folded against the front panel127(FIG.6). Edges of the closure tab163adjacent to the lateral fold line165can engage the interior of the front panel127to help retain the wrap103in the closed configuration.

In the illustrated embodiment, the wrap103retaining the containers C1, C2in the closed configuration inFIGS.5-7and/or in an open configuration inFIGS.3and4can form the package105. In one embodiment, the open configuration can be for inserting the containers C1, C2into the wrap103to form the package105and/or removing one or both of the containers C1, C2from the package105. As shown inFIGS.5-7, the wrap103can retain the containers C1, C2while providing visibility of the containers via the openings169and at partially open sides of the wrap103where the cover portion108(e.g., including at least the top panel135, the top glue panels149a,149band the top flaps155a,155b) is spaced apart from the side panels123a,123b. The wrap103and/or the package105could be otherwise formed without departing from the disclosure. For example, the containers C1, C2could be loaded into (e.g., captured and secured in) the glued wrap103manually or by a machine.

In an exemplary embodiment, the package105can be opened (e.g., moved from the closed configuration ofFIGS.5-7to the opened configuration (FIGS.3and4) for removing the containers C1, C2and/or for dispensing products from the containers C1, C2. For example, the closure tab163can be removed from the slit167and the wrap103can be folded along one or more of the lateral fold lines133,137,153a,153bto pivot the cover portion108(e.g., at least the top panel135and the top container holder109) away from the tray portion106(e.g., at least the bottom panel121, the side panels123a,123b, and the bottom compartment107). In one embodiment, the product in the container C1can be dispensed from the container C1while the container is retained in the bottom compartment107and/or the container C1can be removed from the bottom compartment107for dispensing product. The container C2can be pulled out of the top compartment109(e.g., by removing the rim R2from between the glue panels149a,149band the top panel135) and can be opened for dispensing product. The package105could be otherwise opened without departing from the disclosure. For example, one or more features of the wrap103could be cut or torn for allowing access to the containers C1, C2and/or the product in the containers C1, C2. After the containers C1, C2are removed from the wrap103, the wrap103can be moved to the flat configuration ofFIG.2in some embodiments.

Accordingly, the wrap103can hold the containers C1, C2in the package105for display and sale of the items contained in the sealed trays (e.g., food items, personal care items, hardware, stationery items, etc.). In one embodiment, the wrap103can provide a simple, inexpensive, sustainable, one-piece construct to contain and protect individual products by trapping the products in the overlapping glue features. In an exemplary embodiment, the folded-over glue panels143a,147a,149a,143b,147b,149bcan add strength to the wrap103to help protect the products (e.g., in the containers C1, C2) in addition to at least partially forming multiple trapping areas to secure different trayed products (e.g., for retail sale). In some embodiments, the blank101and the wrap103can comprise paperboard, which can be sustainable (e.g., made from renewable resources, recyclable, etc.) and can allow for high end graphic treatment, for example. In the illustrated embodiment, the openings169can form windows in the wrap103to allow for visibility of the products held by the wrap.

FIG.8shows a blank201for forming a wrap203and package205(FIG.9) according to a second embodiment of the disclosure. The second embodiment is generally similar to the first embodiment, except for variations noted and variations that will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. Accordingly, similar or identical features of the embodiments have been given like or similar reference numbers. In the second embodiment, the blank201is similar to the blank101ofFIG.1except that the opening269extending in the top panel135and the back panel131replaces the openings169in the top panel135and the back panel131of the first embodiment. The wrap203can be formed in the same manner or in a similar manner as the wrap103of the first embodiment, the containers C1, C2can be loaded into the wrap203in the same manner or in a similar manner as the wrap103of the first embodiment, and the package205can be moved to the closed configuration in the same manner or in a similar manner as the wrap103of the first embodiment. In addition, the wrap203can be opened in the same manner or in a similar manner as the wrap103of the first embodiment.

FIG.10shows a blank401for forming a wrap403and package405(FIGS.11-14) according to a third embodiment of the disclosure. The third embodiment is generally similar to the prior embodiments, except for variations noted and variations that will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. Accordingly, similar or identical features of the embodiments have been given like or similar reference numbers. In the third embodiment, the wrap403formed from the blank401is configured for holding the container C1(e.g., a sealed tray or tub) and a container C3(e.g., a packet, pouch, bag, or other suitable container). In the illustrated embodiment, the relative proportions of different aspects of the blank401can be adjusted for holding the containers C1, C3relative to the blanks of the prior embodiments configured for holding the containers C1, C2. As shown inFIG.10, the second or upper portion413forms the cover portion408with the top container holder409(FIGS.11-14), which can hold the packet C3. In the illustrated embodiment, the top glue panels449a,449beach can include two cutouts460, and the side or top flaps455a,455bcan be foldably connected to the top glue panels along respective longitudinal fold lines457a,457b. In one embodiment, the top flaps455a,455bcan be rectangular (e.g., generally, substantially, approximately, somewhat rectangular) and can be partially defined by the cutouts460in the respective top glue panels449a,449b. As shown inFIG.10, the top panel135can include an opening469. The blank401could be otherwise shaped, arranged, configured, and/or positioned without departing from the disclosure. For example, the opening469could be replaced by any suitable opening (e.g., the openings of the other embodiments).

The wrap403(FIGS.11-14) can be formed in the same manner or in a similar manner as the wraps103,203of the prior embodiments, and the container C1can be loaded into the wrap403(e.g., in the bottom compartment107) in the same manner or in a similar manner as the wraps of the prior embodiments. The packet or container C3can be loaded into the top container holder409by engaging the packet C3between the top panel135and at least the top flaps455a,455b(FIGS.11and14). Alternatively, the packet C3can be engaged in the top container holder409by aligning the packet C3with the top panel135on the blank401and engaging the packet C3between the top panel135and at least the top flaps455a,455bwhen the top glue panels449a,449bare folded over and glued to the top panel135by the glue strips G. In one embodiment, the package405(FIGS.11-14) and the wrap403with the containers C1, C3can be moved into the closed configuration in the same manner or in a similar manner as the wraps of the prior embodiments. In addition, the wrap403can be opened in the same manner or in a similar manner as the wraps of the prior embodiments.

FIG.15shows a blank501for forming a wrap503and package505(FIGS.16-19) according to a fourth embodiment of the disclosure. The fourth embodiment is generally similar to the prior embodiments, except for variations noted and variations that will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. Accordingly, similar or identical features of the embodiments have been given like or similar reference numbers. In the fourth embodiment, the wrap503formed from the blank501is configured for holding two containers C4(e.g., sealed trays or tubs and/or any other suitable containers) or any suitable number of containers. In the illustrated embodiment, the relative proportions of different aspects of the blank501can be adjusted for holding the containers C4relative to the blanks of the prior embodiments configured for holding the containers C1, C2, and/or C3.

As shown inFIG.15, the second or upper portion513can form the cover portion508(FIGS.16-19) with top glue panels549a,549bfoldably connected to the top panel135along respective longitudinal fold lines151a,151b. In one embodiment, the top panel135can include an opening569(e.g., a circular opening). Also, as shown inFIG.15, the first or lower portion511can form the tray portion506with the first or bottom compartment507(FIGS.16-19) with the side panels523a,523b, the front panel127, and the back panel131foldably connected to the bottom panel121along respective fold lines125a,125b,129,133. The side panels523a,523beach can include a cutout or a curved edge524(e.g., an edge that is arcuate, semicircular, or any other suitable shape) for viewing the containers C4in the wrap503(e.g., for inspecting the containers and/or their contents). The blank501could be otherwise shaped, arranged, configured, and/or positioned without departing from the disclosure. For example, the opening569could be replaced by any suitable opening (e.g., the openings of the other embodiments or an opening having any suitable shape).

The wrap503(FIGS.16-19) can be formed in the same manner or in a similar manner as the wraps103,203,403of the prior embodiments. For example, the top glue panels549a,549bcan be glued in face-to-face contact with the top panel135, the back glue panels147a,147bcan be glued in face-to-face contact with the back panel131, and the front glue panels143a,143bcan be glued in face-to-face contact with the front panel127as shown inFIG.16. As shown inFIG.16, the side panels523a,523bcan be folded upwardly along the U-shaped fold lines125a,125b, which can cause the front panel127and the back panel131to fold upwardly along the respective fold lines129,133(e.g., via the glued connection between the front glue panels143a,143band the front panel127and between the back glue panels147a,147band the back panel131). In the illustrated embodiment, the containers C4can be loaded into the wrap503by inserting the containers C4, one on top of the other, in the interior space of the bottom compartment507at least partially defined by the side panels523a,523b, the front panel127, the back panel131, and the bottom panel121. In one embodiment, the side panels523a,523bcan be wider in the L2direction (e.g., as shown inFIG.15) than the side panels123a,123bof the previous embodiments so that the side panels523a,523bcan contact at least a portion of the lower container C4(e.g., its rim) and/or at least a portion of the top container (e.g., its side) to help at least partially retain the containers C4in the bottom compartment507. As shown inFIG.16, the rim of the top container C4can extend above the side panels523a,523b, and a portion of the side panels523a,523bcan extend between the rim of the lower container C4and the rim of the upper container C4. In the illustrated embodiment, a support panel579(e.g.,FIGS.16-18) can be positioned between the two containers C4(e.g., the support panel579can be positioned on top of the rim of the lower container C4, the support panel579can be glued or otherwise attached to the rim or another portion of the lower container C4, the support panel579can be the lid or cover of the lower container C4, for example replacing the film cover of the lower container C4, and/or the support panel579could be attached to the bottom of the upper container C4). As shown inFIG.16, the upper container C4can have a film cover. The package505in the open configuration is shown inFIG.16. In exemplary embodiments, an unprotected film cover on the lower container C4could be damaged by the weight of the upper container C4(e.g., and its contents). However, the support panel579can comprise a sturdier material (e.g., paperboard and/or other suitable materials) for supporting the upper container C4above the lower container C4whether the support panel579extends over a film cover or is used in lieu of a film cover. The containers C4and/or the support panel579could be otherwise shaped, arranged, configured, and/or positioned without departing from the disclosure.

In one embodiment, the package505can be moved to the closed configuration (FIGS.17-19) by moving the wrap503with the loaded containers C4in the same manner or in a similar manner as the wraps of the prior embodiments. In addition, the wrap503can be opened in the same manner or in a similar manner as the wraps of the prior embodiments. The wrap503and/or package505could be otherwise formed, loaded, closed, and/or opened without departing from the disclosure.

FIG.20shows a blank601for forming a wrap603and package605(FIGS.21-24) according to a fifth embodiment of the disclosure. The fifth embodiment is generally similar to the prior embodiments, except for variations noted and variations that will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. Accordingly, similar or identical features of the embodiments have been given like or similar reference numbers. In the fifth embodiment, the wrap603formed from the blank601is configured for holding the two containers C4(e.g., sealed trays or tubs and/or any other suitable containers) or any suitable number of containers. In the illustrated embodiment, the relative proportions of different aspects of the blank601can be adjusted for holding the containers C4relative to the blanks of the prior embodiments configured for holding the containers C1, C2, and/or C3.

As shown inFIG.20, the second or upper portion613can form the cover portion608with the second or top container holder609(FIGS.21-24) with top glue panels649a,649band top side panels681a,681b(or top flaps681a,681b) foldably connected to the top panel135along respective longitudinal fold lines151a,151b. The top flaps681a,681bcan be foldably connected to the respective back glue panels147a,147balong respective fold lines653a,653b(e.g., at least partially curved fold lines), and the top flaps681a,681bcan be separable from the respective top glue panels648a,689balong respective tear or cut lines683a,683b. In one embodiment, the cut lines683a,683bcan be curved, and a free edge of the respective top flaps681a,681bcan at least partially continue along the curve of the respective cut lines683a,683b. Alternatively, the top flaps681a,681bcould have any suitable shape. In an exemplary embodiment, the cut lines683a,683bcan have one or more nicks (not shown) at least partially connecting the top flaps681a,681bto the respective top glue panels649a,649buntil the top flaps681a,681bare moved relative to the top glue panels649a,694bto at least partially break the nicks and separate the top flaps681a,681bfrom the top glue panels649a,694b. Alternatively, the nicks could be omitted and/or the lines683a,683bcould be tear lines or any suitable lines of weakening.

As shown inFIG.20, the first or lower portion611can be similar to the lower portion111of the previous embodiments and can form the tray portion606with the first or bottom compartment607(FIGS.21-24), which can be similar to the bottom compartment107of the previous embodiments. The blank501could be otherwise shaped, arranged, configured, and/or positioned without departing from the disclosure. For example, the opening569could be replaced by any suitable opening (e.g., the openings of the other embodiments or an opening having any suitable shape).

The wrap603(FIGS.21-24) can be formed in the same manner or in a similar manner as the wraps103,203,403,503of the prior embodiments. For example, the top glue panels649a,649bcan be glued in face-to-face contact with the top panel135, the back glue panels147a,147bcan be glued in face-to-face contact with the back panel131, and the front glue panels143a,143bcan be glued in face-to-face contact with the front panel127as shown inFIG.21. As shown inFIG.21, the bottom side panels123a,123bcan be folded upwardly along the U-shaped fold lines125a,125b, which can cause the front panel127and the back panel131to fold upwardly along the respective fold lines129,133(e.g., via the glued connection between the front glue panels143a,143band the front panel127and between the back glue panels147a,147band the back panel131). In addition, the top flaps681a,681bcan be folded away from the top panel135along the respective fold lines151a,653aand151b,653b, at least partially separating the top flaps681a,681bfrom the respective top glue panels649a,649balong the respective cut lines683a,683b.

In the illustrated embodiment, one of the containers C4(e.g., the container C4that is at least partially covered by the support panel579) can be positioned in the bottom compartment607between the bottom side panels123a,123b(FIG.21), and the other container C4can be positioned in the top container holder609between the top flaps681a,681band the top panel135. For example, the rim of the lower container C4can extend above the upper edges of the bottom side panels123a,123b, and the bottom side panels123a,123bcan at least partially contact the sides of the lower container C4. In the illustrated embodiment, the rim of the upper container C4can be positioned against or proximate the top panel135, and the upper container C4can be at least partially engaged between the top flaps681a,681b. In an exemplary embodiment, the top flaps681a,681bcan at least partially contact the sides of the upper container C4. In one embodiment, at least a portion of the rim of the upper container C4can extend between the top panel135and the top flaps681a,681b. In an exemplary embodiment, the bottom side panels123a,123band the top flaps681a,681bcan be at least partially pulled inwardly (e.g., can extend obliquely and/or along a curve) by their foldable connections to the glue flaps143a,143band/or147a,147bto help retain the containers C4in the interiors of the compartments607,609. The package605in the open configuration is shown inFIG.21.

In one embodiment, the package605can be moved to the closed configuration (FIGS.22-24) by moving the wrap603with the loaded containers C4in the same manner or in a similar manner as the wraps of the prior embodiments. In addition, the wrap603can be opened in the same manner or in a similar manner as the wraps of the prior embodiments. The wrap603and/or package605could be otherwise formed, loaded, closed, and/or opened without departing from the disclosure.

FIG.25shows a blank701for forming a construct703and package705(FIGS.26-29) according to a sixth embodiment of the disclosure. The sixth embodiment is generally similar to the prior embodiments, except for variations noted and variations that will be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art. Accordingly, similar or identical features of the embodiments have been given like or similar reference numbers. In the sixth embodiment, the blank701has a first or lower portion711and a second or upper portion713, and the construct703formed from the blank701can include a base portion or tray706formed from the lower portion111and a top portion or lid or cover708formed from the upper portion713. In the illustrated embodiment, the lower portion111and the tray706can include a central panel721(e.g., a bottom central panel721), two tray side panels723foldably connected to the central panel721along fold lines725, and a tray front panel727foldably connected to the central panel721along a fold line729. In one embodiment, the central panel721can include a tray opening769a(FIG.25) that receives the container C1(e.g., so that the rim R1of the container C1engages/contacts an interior surface of the central panel721and a portion of the container C1extends through the tray opening769apast an exterior surface of the central panel721). Accordingly, the central panel721and the tray opening769aat least partially form a bottom container holder707in the tray portion706. The tray side panels723and the tray front panel727can be folded downwardly with respect to the central panel721to support the central panel721and to provide clearance between the central panel721and a support surface for the container C1received in the central opening.

As shown inFIGS.25-29, the upper portion113and the lid708can include a top panel735(e.g., a top central panel735), two top side panels749foldably connected to the top panel735along fold lines751, and a top front panel739foldably connected to the top panel735along a fold line741. In the illustrated embodiment, the top panel735is foldably connected to the central panel721along a fold line773(e.g., one or more fold lines773and/or a folding area773) so that the lid708is pivotable with respect to the tray706along the fold lines773. As shown inFIGS.25-29, the lid708can include a closure flap763foldably connected to the top front panel739along a fold line765and two attachment flaps775can be foldably connected to the top front panel739along fold lines777. In the illustrated embodiment, the top side panels749and the top front panel739can be folded (e.g., upwardly in the open configuration of the construct shown inFIG.26or downwardly in the closed configuration of the construct shown inFIGS.27-29) with respect to the top panel735and the attachment flaps775can be glued to an interior surface of the top side panels749. In one embodiment, the top side panels749can include oblique fold lines proximate to where the attachment flaps775are glued to the top side panels749so that the ends of the top side panels749and the attachment flaps775form gussets that can allow the top front panel739, the top side panels749, and the attachment flaps775to fold inwardly against the top panel735. The top panel735can include a lid opening769bthat receives the container C2so that the rim R2of the container C2engages/contacts an interior surface of the top panel735(FIG.26) and the sides and bottom of the container C2protrude through the top of the construct703(e.g., a portion of the container C2extends through the lid opening769bpast an exterior surface of the top panel735) when the construct is in the closed configuration (FIGS.27-29). Accordingly, the top panel735and the lid opening769bcan at least partially form a top container holder709in the lid portion708.

In the illustrated embodiment, an inner support panel779can be cut from the bottom central panel721(e.g., when forming the tray opening769a). The inner support panel779could be otherwise formed without departing from the disclosure. In one embodiment, the inner support panel779can be separated from the blank731when forming the construct703and can be placed between the containers C1, C2for supporting the container C2above the container C1in the closed package705. Accordingly, the inner support panel779can help prevent the weight of the container C2from damaging the film cover of the lower container C1when the package705is in the closed, upright configuration (FIGS.27and29). The construct703and the package705could be otherwise shaped, arranged, configured, and/or positioned without departing from the disclosure.

Any of the features of the various embodiments of the disclosure can be combined with replaced by, or otherwise configured with other features of other embodiments of the disclosure without departing from the scope of this disclosure. The carrier styles and panel configurations described above are included by way of example.

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

As an example, a tear line can include: a slit that extends partially into the material along the desired line of weakness, and/or a series of spaced apart slits that extend partially into and/or completely through the material along the desired line of weakness, or various combinations of these features. As a more specific example, one type tear line is in the form of a series of spaced apart slits that extend completely through the material, with adjacent slits being spaced apart slightly so that a nick (e.g., a small somewhat bridging-like piece of the material) is defined between the adjacent slits for typically temporarily connecting the material across the tear line. The nicks are broken during tearing along the tear line. The nicks typically are a relatively small percentage of the tear line, and alternatively the nicks can be omitted from or torn in a tear line such that the tear line is a continuous cut line. That is, it is within the scope of the present disclosure for each of the tear lines to be replaced with a continuous slit, or the like. For example, a cut line can be a continuous slit or could be wider than a slit without departing from the present disclosure.

In accordance with the exemplary embodiments, a fold line can be any substantially linear, although not necessarily straight, form of weakening that facilitates folding therealong. More specifically, but not for the purpose of narrowing the scope of the present disclosure, fold lines include: a score line, such as lines formed with a blunt scoring knife, or the like, which creates a crushed or depressed portion in the material along the desired line of weakness; a cut that extends partially into a material along the desired line of weakness, and/or a series of cuts that extend partially into and/or completely through the material along the desired line of weakness; and various combinations of these features. In situations where cutting is used to create a fold line, typically the cutting will not be overly extensive in a manner that might cause a reasonable user to incorrectly consider the fold line to be a tear line.

The above embodiments may be described as having one or more panels adhered together by glue during erection of the carrier embodiments. The term “glue” is intended to encompass all manner of adhesives commonly used to secure carrier panels in place.

The foregoing description of the disclosure illustrates and describes various exemplary embodiments. Various additions, modifications, changes, etc., could be made to the exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. It is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Additionally, the disclosure shows and describes only selected embodiments of the disclosure, but the disclosure is capable of use in various other combinations, modifications, and environments and is capable of changes or modifications within the scope of the inventive concept as expressed herein, commensurate with the above teachings, and/or within the skill or knowledge of the relevant art. Furthermore, certain features and characteristics of each embodiment may be selectively interchanged and applied to other illustrated and non-illustrated embodiments of the disclosure.