EP4313795A1

EP4313795A1 - Article carrier and blank therefor

Info

Publication number: EP4313795A1
Application number: EP22718012.2A
Authority: EP
Inventors: Lauren N. CHESNET
Original assignee: WestRock Packaging Systems LLC
Current assignee: WestRock Packaging Systems LLC
Priority date: 2021-04-01
Filing date: 2022-03-31
Publication date: 2024-02-07
Also published as: KR20230162655A; CN117412906A; WO2022212623A1; CA3214053A1; US20240190631A1; AU2022252308A1; TW202248092A; JP2024512746A; MX2023011568A

Abstract

Aspects of the disclosure relate to a top engaging article carrier (90) for packaging one or more articles blanks (10A, 10B, 10C, 10D) for forming the carrier (90) and a method of forming the carrier (90). An aspect provides a plurality of connected blanks (1), comprising two or more blanks (10A, 10B, 10C, 10D) each for forming an article carrier (90). Each blank (10A, 10B, 10C, 10D) comprises an engaging panel (12) having at least one article-receiving device (RT1) and a pair of side or shoulder panels (20, 22) hingedly connected to opposing sides of the engaging panel (12). A first side panel (20) of a first one of the two or more blanks (10A, 10B, 10C, 10D) is frangibly connected to an adjacently disposed side panel (22) of a second one of the two or more blanks (10A, 10B, 10C, 10D) by one or more frangible connections (N). The frangible connections (N) are broken automatically in response to application of the plurality of connected blanks (1) to a group of articles (B).

Description

ARTICLE CARRIER AND BLANK THEREFOR

TECHNICAL FIELD

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

BACKGROUND

In the field of packaging, it is known to provide cartons for carrying multiple articles. Cartons are well known in the art and are useful for enabling consumers to transport, store and access a group of articles for consumption. For cost and environmental considerations, such cartons or carriers need to be formed from as tittle 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.

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

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

SUMMARY

A first aspect of the invention provides a plurality of connected blanks for forming two or more article carriers. Each blank comprises an engaging panel, having at least one article-receiving device, and at ieast one shoulder pane! hingedly connected to the engaging panel. At least one shoulder panel of a first one of the plurality of connected blanks is frangsbly connected to an adjacently disposed at least one shoulder pane! of a second one of the plurality of connected blanks by one or more frangible connections. Advantageously, the plurality of connected blanks does not require a cutting tool or step to be implemented when the blanks are applied to the articles to form a plurality of secondary packages about the primary product container or articles.

Optionally, the frangible connections are broken automatically in response to folding said shoulder panels with respect to the engaging panel to which it is hinged.

Optionally, the frangible connections are broken automatically in response to engagement or application of the plurality of connected blanks to a group of articles,

A second aspect of the invention provides a plurality of connected blanks for forming two or more article carriers. Each blank comprises an engaging panel, having at least one article-receiving device, and a pair of side panels hingedly connected to opposing sides of the engaging panel. The plurality of connected blanks comprises at least one pair of pair of frangib!y connected side panels. The at least one pair of pair of frangibiy connected side panels includes a first side pane! hingedly connected to an engaging pane! of a first one of the plurality of connected blanks and a second side panel hingedly connected to an engaging panel side panel of a second, adjacently disposed, one of the plurality of connected blanks.

Optionally, one or more frangible connections between the first side panel and the second side pane! are broken automatically in response to folding said side panels with respect to the engaging panel to which it is hinged.

Optionally, the frangible connections are broken automatically in response to engagement or application of the plurality of connected blanks to a group of articles.

Optionally, an article-receiving device in the first one of the plurality of connected blanks is spaced apart from an article-receiving device in the second one of the plurality of connected blanks by a first distance. The first distance is equal to or less than the maximum diameter of the articles receivable in the article-receiving devices of said first and second blanks,

A third aspect of the invention provides an article top-receiving device in a main panel of an article carrier. The article top-receiving device comprises an opening and a plurality of engaging tabs. The plurality of engaging tabs comprises at least one first tab connected to the main pane! by a linear fold line and at least one second tab partially connected from the main pane! by a non-linear cut.

Optionally, the plurality of engaging tabs comprises at least one third tab struck from the main panel and integral with a side pane! hingediy connected to the main panel.

Optionally, each of the plurality of engaging tabs is substantially trapezoidal in shape.

Optionally, a side edge of each of the plurality of engaging tabs abuts a side edge of an adjacent one of the plurality of engaging tabs.

Optionally, a free end edge of each of the plurality of engaging tabs provides an engaging edge for engaging an article.

Optionally, the article top-receiving device comprises a plurality of second tabs disposed substantially about a portion of the perimeter of the receiving aperture opposing the side panel from which the third tab extends.

Optionally, the at least one second tab is defined in part by at least one “T" shaped outline.

Optionally, the at least one second tab is defined in part by at least one “L” shaped cutline.

Optionally, the at least one second tab is defined in part by at least one ‘T shaped outline.

Optionally, the at least one second tab is defined in part by at least one outline having a first radial outline portion and a second circumferential outline portion.

Optionally, the first radial cutline portion extends along a notional radial line extending from a centre of the article top-receiving device.

Optionally, the second circumferential outline portion is linear.

Optionally, the circumferential outline portion comprises at least a part which is perpendicular to the first radial outline portion. Optionally, outermost ends of first radial outline portions define a notional circle centred at the intersection between notional extensions of two or more first radial outline portions.

Optionally, the second circumferential outline portions are tangential to said notional circle and comprise a terminal end disposed outside the notional circle.

Optionally, the non-linear cut is disposed inside the notional circle.

Optionally, a bridging connection is defined between a terminal end of the non-linear cut and a terminal end of an adjacent second circumferential cutline portion.

Optionally, outermost terminal ends of radial outlines defining the at least one first tab is disposed outside of the notional circle.

Optionally, an outermost terminal end of radial cutlines defining the at least one third tab is disposed outside of the notional circle.

Optionally, the linear fold line of the at least one first tab is disposed outside of the notional circle.

A fourth aspect of the invention provides a method of forming two or more article carriers from a plurality of connected blanks. The plurality of connected blanks comprises two or more blanks each forming an article carrier. Each blank includes an engaging panel, having at least one article- receiving device, and at least one side panel hinged ly connected to the engaging panel. A side pane! of a first one of the two or more blanks is frangibly connected to a side pane! of a second one of the two or more blanks by one or more frangible connections. The method comprises forming a group of articles, applying the plurality of connected blanks to the group of articles, and pressing the plurality of connected blanks about ends of the articles forming the group of articles. The method comprises folding the side panels of the first and second blanks with respect to the engaging pane! to which it is hinged. The frangible connections between the side panels of the first and second blanks are broken automatically in response to folding said side panels. The method comprises receiving an article in each of the at least one article-receiving devices such that two or more distinct article carriers are formed. Optionally, the method of forming two or more article carriers comprises packaging articles each comprising an upper end having an end diameter, a main body having a body diameter, and a shoulder portion disposed between the main body and upper end. The body diameter is greater than the end diameter such that when two articles are placed in juxtaposition a void exists therebetween in a region between shoulder portions of said articles. The method comprises displacing the side panels of the first and second blanks into the void, said displacement facilitating separation of the first blank from the second blank.

A fifth aspect of the invention provides an article carrier of the top engaging type comprising an engaging panel, having at least one article-receiving device struck from the engaging panel, and at least one side panel comprising a severed frangible connection along an edge of the at least one side pane! opposing its hinged connection to the engaging panel.

Optionally, the at least one side panel comprises a tab struck from the engaging pane! and interrupting the hinged connection between the at leas! one side panel and the engaging panel.

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

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

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

Exemplary embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

Figure 1 is a plan view from above of a plurality of connected blanks, each blank capable of forming a carrier, according to a first embodiment;

Figure 18 is an enlarged plan view of a portion of one of the blanks of Figure 1 showing an article retention structure;

Figure 1C is a plan view from above of the plurality of connected blanks showing the position of articles superimposed thereon; and

Figures 2 and 3 are a perspective views from above of a carrier formed from one of the blanks of Figure 1.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of packages, blanks, carriers, and methods are disclosed herein. It wiil 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, carriers, and methods described herein may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The Figures are not necessarily to scale arid 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 Figure 1 , there is shown a plan view of a plurality of connected blanks 1 each of which is capable of forming a carton or carrier 90, as shown in Figures 2 and 3, for containing and carrying a group of primary products such as, but not limited to, bottles or cans, hereinafter referred to as articles B. Each blank 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D forms a secondary package 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 for engaging and carrying articles, such as primary product containers. St is contemplated that the teachings of the invention can be applied to various product containers, which may or may not be tapered and/or cylindrical. Exemplary containers include bottles (for example metallic, glass or plastics bottles), cans {for example aluminium cans), tins, pouches, packets and the like.

The blanks 10A, 108, 10C, 1GD are formed from a sheet of suitable substrate. It is to be understood that, as used herein, the term “suitable substrate” includes ali manner of foldable sheet material such as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, and the like. It should be recognised that one or other numbers of blanks may be employed, where suitable, for example, to provide the carrier structure described in more detail below.

The packaging structures or cartons 90 described herein may be formed from a sheet materia! 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 MATRALQCK© 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 printabi!ity. The surface of the sheet material that faces inwardly may, on the other hand, be provided with a coating, a layer, a treatment or be otherwise prepared to provide properties such as one or more of tear-resistance, good glue-ability, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties, in the illustrated embodiments, the blanks 10A, 1QB, 10C, 1GD are configured to form a carton or carrier 90 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles B. In the embodiments illustrated the arrangement is a 2 x 3 matrix or array; two rows of three articles are provided, and the articles B are beverage cans. Alternatively, the blanks 1GA, 10B, 100, 10D 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.

Referring to Figure 1 there is shown a plurality of connected blanks 1, specifically there are four blanks IGA, 10B, 10C, 1GD arranged in a 2 x 2 matrix or array. Each blank 10A, 10B, 1QC, 10D comprises a main pane! 12 for forming a top wall or engaging pane! of a carrier 90 (see Figures 2 and 3). Each blank 10 A, 108, 10C, 10D is connected to at feast two adjacent blanks 10A, 10B. 10C, 10D by frangible connections 25, 27,

The blanks 1QA, 1GB, 10C, 10D comprise a first side or shoulder panel 20 hingediy connected to a first side edge of the main pane! 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 21.

The blanks 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D comprise a second side or shoulder pane! 22 hingediy connected to a second side edge of the main pane! 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 23. The second side edge opposes the first side edge.

A first blank 10A is frangibly connected to a second blank 108 by a first frangible connection 25, more specifically, a second side or shoulder panel 22 of the first blank 1 GA is frangibly connected to a first side or shoulder panel 20 of the second blank 10B. The first frangible connection 25 may comprise a plurality of cutlines spaced apart from each other by a connecting bridge or nick N. The first frangible connection 25 may comprise two or more connecting bridges or nicks N.

A third blank 10C is frangibly connected to a fourth blank 10D by a second frangible connection 25, more specifically, a second side or shoulder panel 22 of the third blank 10C is frangibly connected to a first side or shoulder panel 20 of the fourth blank 10D. The second frangible connection 25 may comprise a plurality of outlines spaced apart from each other by a connecting bridge or nick N. The second frangible connection 25 may comprise two or more connecting bridges or nicks N.

The first blank 1QA is frangibly connected to the third blank TOC by a third frangible connection 27, The third frangible connection 27 may comprise a plurality of outlines spaced apart from each other by a connecting bridge or nick N. An end edge of the main panel 12 of the first blank 10A is frangibly connected to an end edge of the main panel 12 of the third blank 10C by two or more connecting bridges or nicks N.

The second blank 10B is frangibly connected to the fourth blank 10D by a fourth frangible connection 27, The fourth frangible connection 27 may comprise a plurality of outlines spaced apart from each other by a connecting bridge or nick N. An end edge of the main pane! 12 of the second blank 10B is frangibiy connected to an end edge of the main pane! 12 of the fourth blank 1QD by two or more connecting bridges or nicks N.

The plurality of connected blanks 1 may comprise a cutaway in the form of an aperture. The cutaway interrupts or spaces apart the first frangible connection 25 from the second frangible connection 25. The cutaway interrupts or spaces apart the third frangible connection 27 from the fourth frangible connection 27. The cutaway separates a portion of each blank 1QA, 10B, 10C, 10D from each of the other blanks 10A, 108, 10C, 10D.

Each main panel 12 includes at least one article retention structure RT1 , see Figure IB. In the embodiment of Figure 1 the engaging panel 12 comprises a plurality of article retention structures RT 1 , specifically six article retention structures RT 1 arranged in 2 x 3 matrix or array.

The article retention structure RT1 comprises an article receiving opening defined in part by an aperture AP1 which is defined in, or struck from, the main panel 12. Each of the article retention structures RT1 comprises a plurality of teeth or tabs 14a, 14b, 18 disposed about the aperture API

Each of the teeth 14a, 14b, 18 is struck from the engaging panel 12 and is hingedly connected thereto. Each tooth 14a, 14b, 18 is defined, in part, by a pair of cut lines 13, 15. The cut lines 13, 15 extend substantially radially outward from the article receiving aperture API .

The illustrated embodiment comprises eight teeth 14a, 14b, 18 defined about the receiving aperture API , Each tooth 14a, 14b, 16 comprises a free engaging edge opposing a hinged connection between each tooth 14a. 14b, 18 and the main pane! 12. Each free engaging edge defines a portion the receiving aperture API The receiving aperture AP1 may be substantially octagonal in shape.

The retention structures RT 1 comprise at least one first tab 14a coupled or connected to the main or engaging panel 12 by a linear fold line 17, The linear foid line 17 may be defined, at least in part, by a linear cut line. The linear fold Sine 17 may be non-parallel to an opposing free engaging edge of the at least one first tab 14a, The retention structures RT1 comprise at least one second tab 14b coupled or connected to the main or engaging panel 12. The at least one second tab 14b is partially disconnected from the main pane! 12 by a non-linear, optionally arcuate, cut line 19. The non-linear cut line 19 defines a lobe 18 struck from the at least one second tab 14b.

The retention structure RT1 may comprise a plurality of second tabs 14b each having a lobe 18. The plurality of second tabs 14b may be arranged about the opening such that the lobes 18 encourage an article B, when received in the opening, toward the first or second side edges of the main panel 12.

Optionally, the radial cut lines 13, 15, defining side edges of the teeth 14a, 14b, 18, may terminate with a circumferential cut line 11. In the illustrated embodiment, the circumferential cut line 11 is linear in shape so as to form a “T shaped cut line. In other embodiments, the circumferential cut line 11 may be nonlinear or curved; the circumferential cut line 11 may define a portion of an “L“ or “J" shaped outline. In the illustrated embodiment, only those radial outlines 13, 15 disposed between a pair of second tabs 14b terminate with a circumferential cut tine 11. In other embodiments, the radial outline 13, 15 between a first tab 14a and a second tab 14b may, additionally or alternatively, terminate with a circumferential cut Sine 11,

Optionally, the retention structures RT1 comprise a third tab 18. The third tab 16 is integral with one of the first and second side panel 20, 22 and interrupts the hinged connection 21 , 23 between said one of the first and second shoulder panels 20, 22 and the main panel 12.

The third tabs 18 are arranged to fold simultaneously with the one of the first and second shoulder panels 20, 22 from which they extend.

The third tabs 18 may be displaced out of the plane of the main pane! 12 when the one of the first and second shoulder panels 20, 22 from which they extend is folded with respect to the main panel 12.

Alternatively, when the blanks IGA, 10B, 10C, 10D are lowered with respect to a group of articles B, and the articles 8 are received by the retention structures RT 1 , the articles B may displace the third tabs 16 out of the plane of the main panel 12 from which it is struck. The first and second shoulder panels 20, 22 may be folded in response to receipt of the articles B in the retention structures RT1.

In the illustrated embodiment, each retention structure RT1 comprises a pair of first tabs 14a disposed on opposing sides of the third tab 16,

In the illustrated embodiment, each retention structure RT1 comprises a plurality (specifically, but not limited to, five) of second tabs 14b disposed substantially about in inner half of the perimeter of the receiving aperture AP1.

Optionally, each blank 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D comprises a handle structure H. The handle structure H may comprise a pair of handle openings spaced apart from each other, in the illustrated embodiment, the handle openings are defined in part by a handle aperture A1 and in part by a one or more foldable tabs 60 struck from the engaging panel 12. Each of the one or more foldable tabs 60 is hlngediy connected thereto by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 81. In the illustrated embodiment, each handle opening comprises a pair of foldable tabs 60, A first pair of the foldable tabs 60 of a first handle opening is hinged substantially in opposition to a second pair of the foldable tabs 60 of a second handle opening. The first handle opening is disposed centrally of a first group of four article retention devices RT1. The second handle opening is disposed centrally of a second group of four article retention devices RT1.

The blanks 10A. 1GB, 10C, 1GD include at least a paperboard substrate. The material of the paperboard substrate may be selected from any conventional paperboard, for example, ranging in weight upwardly from about TOpt (0.G107~0,25mm), preferably from about 18pt. (0.0167-0.41 mm) to about 28pt. (0.0267-0.7mm). An example of such a substrate is a 27point (pi.) (0.0277 approximately 0,69 mm) SBS board {solid bleached sulphate paperboard coated on one side, trade name PrintKote©) or CMK® board (Coated Natural Kraft® -an unbleached kraft paperboard having a clay coating on one side, trade name CarrierKote™} manufactured by WestRock® Company. The paperboard substrate may be a bleached or unbleached board. The board may be coated on at least one side, optionally the side opposite the lamination, with a conventional coating selected for compatibility with the printing method and board composition.

The blanks 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D may include a tear resistant layer laminated to the paperboard layer. It optionally includes an adhesive layer between the paperboard substrate and the tear resistant layer. The tear resistant layer may be disposed over the uncoated side of the paperboard substrate and may be formed of polymeric material and secured to the substrate. The tear resistant layer imparts toughness to the laminate structure. Suitable tear resistant materials may include, but not be limited to, tear resistant laminated sheet material, e g , NATRAIOCK®, which may indude a iayer of an n-axiaiiy oriented film, e.g., MYLAR®, which is a bi-axially oriented polyester, oriented nylon, cross-iaminated polyolefin or high-density polyolefin. The orientation and cross-laminated structure of these materials contribute to the tear resistant characteristic. Also, tear resistance may be attributed to the chemical nature of the tear resistant material such as extruded metallocene-catalysed polyethylene (mPE).

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

The adhesive layer may be formed of polyolefin material such as a low-density polyethylene (LDPE). The adhesive layer may be placed between the substrate and the tear resistant layer to secure the tear resistant layer to the substrate.

Turning to the construction of the carrier 90 from the blanks 10A, 108, 10C, 10D, the plurality of connected blanks 1 may be applied to a group of articles B. The plurality of connected blanks 1 is lowered with respect to the group of articles 8. Each of the article retention structures RT of each the blank 10A, 108, 10C, 10D is aligned with a respective article B in the group. Portions of the articles B pass through the engaging panels 12.

The first and second side panels 20, 22 of the blanks IGA, 108, 10C, 10D are folded with respect to the main panel 12 to which they are hinged. The first and second side panels 20, 22 of the blanks 10A, 10B, 100, 10D are folded about sides or shoulders of the articles B,

The frangible connections or nicks N are broken automatically in response to folding of the first and second side panels 20, 22.

The first and second side panels 20, 22 of the blanks 10A. 1QB, 10C, 10D may be folded simultaneously with the third tabs 16. The articles B have a maximum diameter d, as indicated in Figure 1C. The article retention devices RT1 adjacent to the second side panel 22 of the first blank 10A are spaced apart from the article retention devices RT 1 adjacent to the first side panel 20 of the second blank 10B by a distance w, also shown in Figure 1C. The distance w is measured between a centre or middle of the article retention devices RT1 in the first blank 10A and a centre or middle of the article retention devices RT1 in the second blank 1QB.

The article retention devices RT1 adjacent to the second side panel 22 of the third blank 10C are spaced apart from the article retention devices RT 1 adjacent to the first side panel 20 of the fourth blank 10D by a distance w, again distance w is measured between centres of the article retention devices RT 1 ,

The centre or middle of the article retention devices RT1 may, but need not be, the coincident with the centre or midd!e of the aperture AP1 ,

The distance w may be equal to or less than the maximum article diameter d.

The teeth 14a, 14b, 18 of the article retention structures RT may be folded out of the plane of the main panels 12 as the main panels 12 are pushed or pressed over the articles B or immediately prior thereto.

Each tooth 14a, 14b, 16 is folded about a respective article B received in the respective one of the article retentions structures RT.

The engaging edges of the teeth 14a, 14b, 16 engage beneath a projection of the article B, The projection may be located about the neck or chime of the article B {which may provide a flange) of an article B. When the article B is a can the projection may be provided by a canner's end seam. When the article B is a bottle the projection may be provided by a cap or a tamper evident device attached thereto, or by a flange disposed below the cap. In other embodiments, it may be provided by a ridge or undercut shaping of the article B or by an end closure of the article B for example but not limited to a crown cork or closure, in this way, the engaging edges grip or hold the article 8 and prevent or inhibit the article 8 from unintentionally separating from the engaging panel 12. The assembled carrier 90 is shown in Figure 3. The present disclosure provides an article earner 90 of the top engaging type comprising an engaging pane! 12. The engaging pane! 12 comprises at least one article-receiving device RT1 struck from the engaging pane! 12. The article carrier 90 comprises a pair of side or shoulder panels hinged!y connected to opposing sides of the engaging panel 12.

The present disclosure provides a plurality of connected blanks 1 , comprising two or more blanks 10A, 108, 10C, 10D each for forming an article carrier 90. Each blank 10A, 108, IOC, 10D comprises an engaging panel 12, having at least one article-receiving device RT1 , and a pair of side or shoulder panels hinged!y connected to opposing sides of the engaging panel 12. A first side panel of a first one of the two or more blanks 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D is frangibly connected to an adjacently disposed side panel of a second one of the two or more blanks 10A, 10B, 10C, 10D by one or more frangible connections. The frangible connections are broken automatically in response to application of the plurality of connected blanks 1 to a group of articles.

In some embodiments, an article-receiving device RT1 in a first one of the two or more blanks 10A, 108, 10C, 10D is spaced apart from an article-receiving device RT1 in a second one of the two or more blanks 10A, 108, 1QC, TOD by a distance w. The distance w may be equal: to or iess than the maximum diameter cf of the articles B receivable in the article-receiving device RT1 of said blanks 1QA, 10B, 10C, 10D.

The top engaging article carrier 90 forms a package with two or more articles B. The articles B each comprise an upper end which may be provided by an end closure or cap, the upper end has an end diameter. The article 6 comprises a main body having a body diameter and a neck or shoulder portion disposed between the main body and upper end. The body diameter is greater than the end diameter. When two articles 8 are placed in juxtaposition a gap or void exist therebetween in a region between neck or shoulder portions of said articles B. The side or shoulder panels 20, 22 are displaceable into this region, said displacement facilitating separation of one blank 10A, 108, 1QC, lOD from another blank 10A, 108, 10C, TOD.

The present disclosure also provides an article top-receiving device in a main panel 12 and comprising an opening AP1 and a plurality of engaging tabs 14a, 14b, 16, The plurality of engaging tabs 14a, 14b, 16 comprises at least one first tab 14a connected to the main panel 12 by a linear fold line 17 and at least one second tab 14a partially connected from the main panel 12 by a non-iinear cut 19. The plurality of engaging tabs 14a, 14b, 18 may comprise at least one third tab 18 struck from the main pane! 12 and integral, that is to say free from a predefined hinged connection, with a side or shoulder pane! 20, 22 hingediy connected to the main panel 12.

Each of the plurality of engaging tabs 14a, 14b, 18 may be substantially trapezoidal in shape.

A side edge of each of the plurality of engaging tabs 14a, 14b, 16 may abut a side edge of an adjacent one of the plurality of engaging tabs 14a, 14b, 16,

A free end edge of each of the plurality of engaging tabs 14a, 14b, 16 may provide an engaging edge or support edge for engaging or supporting an article.

Embodiments of the disclosure provide an article retention structure RT1 having a plurality (specifically, but not limited to, five) of second tabs 14b disposed substantially about a portion of the perimeter of the receiving aperture AP1 opposing the side or shouider pane! 20, 22 from which the third tab 16 of said article retention structure RT1 extends.

The second tabs 14b may be defined in part by at least one T, “L" or “J" shaped outline. The second tabs 14b may be defined, at least in part, by at least one cutline having a first radial cutline portion and a second circumferential cutline portion. The first radial cut! me portion extends along a notional radial line extending from a centre of article retention structures RT1, The second circumferential cutline portion may be arcuate or linear. The circumferential outline portion may comprise at least a portion which is perpendicular to the first radial cutline portion.

The outermost ends of a plurality of first radial cutline portions define a notional circle NC centred at the intersection between notional extensions of two or more first radial outline portions. The second circumferential outline portions may be tangential to said notional circle NC and may comprise a terminal end disposed outside the notional circle NC.

The non-linear or arcuate cut lines 19 may be disposed inside the notional circle NC. A hinge or bridging connection is defined between a tormina! end of a non-linear or arcuate cut line 19 and a terminal end of an adjacent second circumferential outline portion. Outermost terminal ends of radial outlines 13, 15 defining the first and/or third tabs 14a, 18 may be disposed outside of the notional circle MC,

The iinear fold tine 17, and/or the linear cut defining said linear fold line 17, of the first tabs 14a may be disposed outside of the notional circie NC,

Free end edges of each of the plurality of engaging tabs 14a, 14b, 16 define an aperture AP1 having a polygonal shape. Free end edges of each of the plurality of engaging tabs 14a, 14b, 18 may provide at least two pairs of substantially or generally opposing free or engaging edges, A first pair of the at least two pairs of generally opposing free or engaging edges may be substantially orthogonal to a second pair of the at least two pairs of opposing free or engaging edges.

The present disclosure also provides a method of providing two or more article carriers 90 from a plurality of connected blanks 1. The plurality of connected blanks 1 comprises two or more blanks 10A, 108, 10C, 10D each forming an article carrier 90. Each blank 10A, 1QB, 100, 10D comprises an engaging panel 12, having at least one articSe-receiving device RT1 and at least one side or shoulder panel hingedfy connected to the engaging panel 12. A side pane! of a first one of the two or more blanks 10A, 10B, TOC, 10D is frangibly connected to a side panel of a second one of the two or more blanks T0A, 10B, 100, 10D by one or more frangible connections. The method comprises applying the plurality of connected blanks 1 to a group of articles B, applying the plurality of connected blanks 1 to a group of articles B comprises pressing the plurality of connected blanks 1 about ends of the articles B forming the group of articles B, and receiving an article B in each of the at least one article-receiving devices RT1, wherein the frangible connections between the side panels of the first and second blanks are broken automatically in response to folding said side or shoulder panels with respect to the engaging panel 12 to which it is hinged. In this way, the plurality of connected blanks 1 are separated to form distinct or separate article carriers 90.

If 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 alt manner of Sines that define hinge features of the biank, 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 Sines wherein each of the two or more fold Sines may be either straight/Sinear or curved/curvi!Snear in shape. When linear fold Sines form a hinged connection, they may be disposed parallel with each other or be slightSy 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 Sines, 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 Sines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may comprise a combination of a linear fold line and an arched or arcuate fold Sine 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 Sine, an embossed line, a debossed fine, a line of perforations, a line of short silts, a line of half-cuts, a single half- cut, an interrupted outline, a Sine of aligned slits, a Sine 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 Sine of short slits, a line of half-cuts, a single half-cut, a outline, an interrupted outline, siits, scores, embossed Sines, debossed lines, any combination thereof, and the like. The elements can be dimensioned and arranged to provide the desired functionality. For example, a line of perforations can be dimensioned or designed with degrees of weakness to define a fold line and/or a severance Sine. The line of perforations can be designed to facilitate folding and resist breaking, to facilitate folding and facilitate breaking with more effort, or to facilitate breaking with little effort.

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

Claims

1. A plurality of connected blanks for forming two or more article carriers, each blank comprising an engaging panel, having at least one article-receiving device, and at least one shoulder panel hinged!y connected to the engaging panel, wherein at least one shoulder panel of a first one of the plurality of connected blanks is frangibiy connected to an adjacently disposed at least one shoulder panel of a second one of the plurality of connected blanks by one or more frangible connections,

2. A plurality of connected blanks according to claim 1 wherein the one or more frangible connections are broken automatically in response to folding said shoulder panels with respect to the engaging panel to which it is hinged.

3. A plurality of connected blanks according to claim 1 wherein the one or more frangible connections are broken automatically in response to application of the plurality of connected blanks to a group of articles.

4. A plurality of connected blanks for forming two or more article carriers, each blank comprising an engaging panel, having at least one article-receiving device and a pair of side panels hingediy connected to opposing sides of the engaging panel, the plurality of connected blanks comprising at least one pair of pair of frangibiy connected side panels by one or more frangible connections, the at least one pair of frangibiy connected side panels including a first side pane! hinged!y connected to an engaging panel of a first one of the plurality of connected blanks and a second side panel hinged!y connected to an engaging panel of a second, adjacently disposed, one of the plurality of connected blanks.

5. A plurality of connected blanks according to claim 5 wherein one or more frangible connections between the first side pane! and the second side panel are broken automatically in response to folding said side panels with respect to the engaging pane! to which it is hinged.

6. A plurality of connected blanks according to claim 5 wherein the one or more frangible connections are broken automatically in response to application of the plurality of connected blanks to a group of articles.

7. A plurality of connected blanks according to claim 5 wherein an arise! e-receiving device in the first one of the p!ura!ity of connected bianks is spaced apart from an article-receiving device in the second one of the plurality of connected blanks by a first distance, and wherein the first distance is equal to or less than the maximum diameter of the articles receivable in the article-receiving devices of said first and second bianks,

8. An article top-receiving device in a main panel of an article carrier, the article top-receiving device comprising an opening and a plurality of engaging tabs, the plurality of engaging tabs comprising at least one first tab hingedly connected to the main pane! by a linear fold line and at least one second tab partially disconnected from the main panel by a non-linear cut.

Q. An article top-receiving device according to claim 8 wherein the plurality of engaging tabs comprises at least one third tab struck from the main panel and integral with a side panel hingedly connected to the main panel

10. An article top-receiving device according to claim 8 wherein each of the plurality of engaging tabs is substantially trapezoidal in shape.

11. An article top-receiving device according to claim 8 wherein a side edge of each of the plurality of engaging tabs abuts a side edge of an adjacent one of the plurality of engaging tabs,

12. An article top-receiving device according to claim 8 wherein a free end edge of each of the plurality of engaging tabs provides an engaging edge for engaging an article,

13. An article top-receiving device according to claim 9 wherein the at least one second tab comprises a plurality of second tabs disposed substantially about a portion of the perimeter of the receiving aperture opposing the side panel from which the third tab extends.

14. An articie top-receiving device according to claim 8 wherein the at least one second tab is defined in part by at least one “T shaped cutline.

15. An article top-receiving device according to claim 8 wherein the at least one second tab is defined in part by at least one “L” shaped outline.

18. An article top-receiving device according to claim 8 wherein the at least one second tab is defined in part by at least one "J" shaped outline .

17. An article top-receiving device according to claim 8 wherein the at least one second tab is defined in part by at least one outline having a first radial outline portion and a second circumferential outline portion.

18. An article top-receiving device according to claim 17 wherein the first radial outline portion extends along a notional radial line extending from a centre of the article top-receiving device.

19. An article top-receiving device according to claim 17 wherein the second circumferential outline portion is linear.

20. An article top-receiving device according to claim 17 wherein the second circumferential outline portion comprises at least a part which is perpendicular to the first radial cutline portion .

21. An article top-receiving device according to claim 17 wherein the at least one second tab comprises a plurality of second tabs and wherein the first radial outline portions define a notional circle.

22. An article top-receiving device according to claim 21 wherein outermost ends of the first radial outline portions lie on the notional circle, said notional circle having a centre disposed at the intersection between notional extensions of two or more first radia! outline portions,

23. An article top-receiving device according to claim 21 wherein the second circumferential outline portions are tangential to said notional circle and comprise a terminal end disposed outside the notional circle.

24. An article top-receiving device according to claim 21 wherein the non-linear cut is disposed inside the notional circle.

25. An article top-receiving device according to claim 23 wherein a bridging connection is defined between a terminal end of the non-linear cut and a terminal end of an adjacent second circumferential cutline portion.

28. An article top-receiving device according to claim 21 wherein an outermost terminal end of a radial outline defining the at least one first tab is disposed outside of the notional circle.

27. An article top-receiving device according to claim 21 wherein an outermost terminal end of a radial cutline defining the at least one third tab is disposed outside of the notional circle.

28. An article top-receiving device according to cSairn 21 wherein the linear fold line of the at least one first tab is disposed outside of the notionai circle,

28. An article top-receiving device according to claim 21 wherein the linear fold line of the at least one first tab comprises a linear cut which partially disconnects the at least one first tab from the main panel.

30. Ab article top-receiving device according to claim 29 wherein the linear cut of the at least one first tab is disposed outside of the notionai circle.

31. An article top-receiving device according to claim 8 wherein the linear fo!d !ine of the at least one first tab comprises a linear cut which partially disconnects the at least one first tab from the main panel.

32. A method of forming two or more article carriers from a plurality of connected blanks, the plurality of connected blanks comprising two or more blanks each forming an article carrier, each blank including an engaging panel having at least one article-receiving device and at least one side panel hinged!y connected to the engaging panel, a side panel of a first one of the two or more blanks being frangibly connected to a side panel of a second one of the two or more blanks by one or more frangible connections, the method comprising: forming a group of articles; applying the plurality of connected blanks to the group of articles; pressing the plurality of connected blanks about ends of the articles forming the group of articles ; folding the side panels of the first and second blanks with respect to the engaging pane! to which it is hinged, wherein the frangible connections between the side panels of the first and second blanks are broken automatically in response to folding said side panels; receiving an article in each of the at least one article-receiving devices such that two or more distinct article carriers are formed. , A method of forming two or more article carriers according to claim 32 wherein the articies each comprise an upper end having an end diameter, a main body having a body diameter and a shoulder portion disposed between the main body and upper end, the body diameter is greater than the end diameter such that when two articles are placed in juxtaposition a void exist therebetween in a region between shoulder portions of said articles, and wherein the method comprises displacing the side panels of the first and second blanks into the void, said displacement facilitating separation of the first blank from the second blank, ,An article carrier of the top engaging type comprising an engaging panel having at least one article-receiving device struck from the engaging panel and at least one side panel comprising a severed frangible connection aiong an edge of the at least one side panel opposing its hinged connection to the engaging panel. , An article carrier according to claim 34 wherein the at least one side panel comprises a tab struck from the engaging panel and interrupting the hinged connection between the at least one side panel and the engaging panel.