CN115279667A - Article carrier and blank therefor - Google Patents

Abstract

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to an article carrier 90 for packaging one or more articles B and a blank 10 for forming the carrier. The article carrier has at least a two-ply strap handle at one or both of its opposite ends. The article carrier comprises end bridging straps 12a, 12b hingedly connected along their respective upper edges to reinforcing straps 14, 16. The reinforcing strips are secured at their opposite ends to the side panels 18, 20 of the carrier.

Description

Article carrier and blanks therefor

Cross References to Related Applications

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. ‎‎‎62/967,382, filed January 29, 2020, the disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

technical field

The present invention relates to an article carrier and a blank for forming an article carrier. More particularly, but not exclusively, the present invention relates to a carrier having one or more apertures for receiving articles such that the carrier is generally centrally located between opposite ends of the articles.

Background technique

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

It is an object of the present disclosure to provide an item carrier for substantially cylindrical items that has a minimalist appearance and holds or holds a group of those items in a matrix or array arrangement.

The present invention seeks to provide improvements in the field of cartons generally formed from paperboard and the like.

Contents of the invention

A first aspect of the invention provides an item carrier for packaging one or more items. The item carrier has at least two layers of strap handles at one or both of its opposing ends. The article carrier includes end bridging straps hingedly connected to the reinforcement straps along their respective upper edges. The reinforcement straps are secured at their opposite ends to the side panels of the carrier.

Optionally, the article carrier is formed from a sheet material having a first finished surface and a second opposite surface opposite the first surface, the second opposite surface of the end bridging strip being arranged to face the side of the reinforcing strip Second reverse surface.

Optionally, the first finished surface of the end bridging strip is arranged to face inwards towards the interior of the carrier.

Optionally, the first finished surface of the reinforcing strip is arranged to face outwards to provide the outer face of the carrier.

Optionally, the item carrier includes a main panel having an opening for receiving at least one item and at least one joist for spacing or separating a pair of adjacent items.

Optionally, the keel structure includes: a pair of keel panels hingedly connected to each other by keel fracture lines; a pair of strut panels hingedly connected to a corresponding one of the pair of keel panels; The first of the strut panels is coupled to the other of the pair of strut panels.

Optionally, apertures are stamped in part from each of the pair of joist panels, the pair of strut panels and the bracket panel.

Optionally, the reinforcement strip includes a corner panel hingedly connected along a first fold line, and an end flap hingedly connected to the corner panel along a second fold line.

Optionally, at least one of the end flap and the corner panel is secured to an adjacent side panel of the carrier.

Optionally, corner panels are secured to adjacent side panels to form beveled or rounded corners of the carrier.

Optionally, end flaps are secured to adjacent side panels to form beveled or rounded corners of the carrier.

Optionally, glue is applied to the first finished surface of the end flap, and the first finished surface of the end flap is secured to the second opposite surface of the adjacent side panel.

Optionally, glue is applied to the first finished surface of the corner panel, and the first finished surface of the corner panel is secured to the second opposite surface of the adjacent side panel.

Optionally, end portions of adjacent side panels are secured to corner panels to form beveled or rounded corners of the carrier.

Optionally, the end portion is at least partially defined by a third fold line.

Optionally, the end bridging straps are hingedly connected to adjacent side panels by gusset panels and web panels interposed between the corner panels to provide the at least two-layer triple handle layer part.

Optionally, the gusset panel is hingedly connected to an adjacent side panel by a fourth fold line, the fourth fold line and the first fold line defining an obtuse angle therebetween.

Optionally, the lower edge of the reinforcing strap is contoured or indented to provide a non-linear or arcuate engagement edge for the carrying handle.

A second aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank includes at least two layers of handle panels formed at one or both of the opposed ends of the upright carrier, opposed side panels, and end bridging strips. The end bridging straps are hingedly connected to the reinforcement straps along their inner edges. The reinforcing straps may be secured at opposite ends thereof to opposing side panels in the erected carrier.

A third aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank includes a main panel and adjacent side panels. The main panels consist of end bridging straps and joist structures. The joist structure includes at least one joist panel. The blank includes gusset panels coupling the end bridging strips to adjacent side panels. The gusset panels are hingedly connected to the end bridging straps by a fourth fold line. The joist panels are joined to adjacent side panels by strut panels. The strut panels are hingedly connected to the joist panels by fifth fold lines. The fourth fold line is offset from or not collinear with the fifth fold line.

A fifth aspect of the invention provides an item carrier for packaging one or more items. The item carrier has rounded or beveled corners. The article carrier includes an end bridging strap having a corner panel hingedly connected thereto by a fourth fold line. The item carrier includes a connector panel hingedly connected to the corner panel by a sixth fold line. The connector panel is hingedly connected to the adjacent side strap by a seventh fold line. Corner panels are secured to adjacent side straps.

Optionally, the article carrier is formed from a sheet material having a first finished surface and a second opposite surface opposite the first surface, and wherein the second opposite surface of the corner panel is secured to the adjacent side The second opposite surface of the belt.

Optionally, the lower edge of the end bridging strap is contoured to provide a non-linear or arcuate engagement edge for the carrying handle.

Optionally, the lower edge of the end bridging strap is recessed to provide a non-linear or arcuate engagement edge for the carrying handle.

A sixth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier having rounded or beveled corners. The blank includes an end bridging strip having a corner panel hingedly connected thereto by a fourth fold line. The blank includes a connector panel hingedly connected to the corner panel by a sixth fold line. The connector panel is hingedly connected to the adjacent side strap by a seventh fold line. Corner panels can be secured to adjacent side straps in erected carriers.

Within the scope of this application, the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternatives contemplated or intended to be set forth in the preceding paragraphs, claims and/or the following description and drawings may be taken independently or in any combination thereof ways to consider or adopt.

Features or elements described in connection with or with respect to one embodiment apply 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 other embodiment disclosed herein, may include said features or elements extracted from said one embodiment in addition to or instead of said One or more features or elements of other embodiments described above.

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 the embodiment may be omitted from the embodiment.

Description of drawings

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

Figure 1 is a top plan view of a blank for forming a carrier according to a first embodiment;

Figure 2 is a top perspective view of a carrier formed from the blank of Figure 1;

Figure 3 is another perspective view of the carrier formed from the blank of Figure 1, showing the carrying handle in use;

Figure 4 is a top plan view of a blank for forming a carrier according to a second embodiment;

Figure 5 is a top plan view of a blank for forming a carrier according to a third embodiment;

Figure 6 is a top perspective view of a carrier formed from the blank of Figure 5;

7 is a top plan view of a blank for forming a carrier according to a fourth embodiment; and

FIG. 8 is a top perspective view of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 7 .

Detailed ways

Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of packages, blanks and carriers are disclosed herein. It is to be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of ways in which certain aspects of the invention may be practiced, and do not represent an exhaustive list of all ways in which the invention may be embodied. As used herein, the word "exemplary" is used in a broad sense to refer to an embodiment that serves as an illustration, sample, model, or style. Indeed, it will be appreciated that the packages, blanks and carriers described herein may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components. Well-known components, materials or methods have not necessarily been 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 present invention.

Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown a plan view of a blank 10 capable of forming a carton or carrier 90, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, for containing and carrying a group of primary products, such as but not Restricted to bottles or cans, hereinafter referred to as item B. Blank 10 forms a secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package. Alternative blanks 110 , 210 , 310 are shown in FIGS. 4 , 5 and 7 for forming a carton or carrier 290 ; 390 as shown in FIGS. 6 and 8 .

In the embodiments detailed herein, for the non-limiting purpose of illustrating various features of the invention, the terms "carton" and "carrier" refer to containers for engaging and carrying items, such as primary product containers ). It is contemplated that the teachings of the present invention may be applied to a variety of product containers, which may or may not be tapered and/or cylindrical. Exemplary containers include bottles (eg, metal, glass, or plastic bottles), cans (eg, aluminum cans), tins, bags, pouches, and the like.

The blank 10, 110, 210, 310 is formed from a sheet of a suitable substrate. It will be understood that, as used herein, the term "suitable substrate" includes a wide variety of foldable sheet materials, such as paperboard, corrugated cardboard, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, and the like. It will be appreciated that one or other number of blanks may be employed where appropriate, for example to provide the carrier structure described in more detail below.

The packaging structures or cartons described herein may be formed from a sheet material, such as cardboard, which may be made from or coated with various materials to increase its strength. An example of such a sheet material is tear resistant NATRALOCK® paperboard manufactured by WestRock Corporation. It should be noted that the tear resistant material may be provided by more than one layer to help improve the tear resistance of the package. Often, one surface of a sheet material may have different properties than the other surface. For example, the surface of the sheet material facing outward from the finished package may be particularly smooth and may have a coating such as a clay coating or other surface treatment to provide good printability. On the other hand, the inwardly facing surface of the sheet material may be provided with a coating, layer, treatment or otherwise prepared to provide properties such as tear resistance, good adhesion, heat sealability or other desired functional properties the nature of one or more of them.

In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 10 ; 110 ; 210 ; 310 is configured to form a carton or carrier 90 ; 290 ; 390 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary items B. As shown in FIG. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1-8, the arrangement is a 3x2 matrix or array; in an embodiment, three rows of two items each are provided, and item B is a beverage can. Alternatively, the blank 10; 110; 210; 310 may be configured to form a carrier for packaging other types, numbers and sizes of items and/or for packaging items in a different arrangement or configuration.

FIG. 1 illustrates a first embodiment and shows a blank 10 for forming the carrier 90 shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 . The carrier 90 takes the form of an intermediate band or clip; the carrier 90 includes openings configured to receive the items B, the openings being arranged to receive the necks and bodies of the items B. In this way, the carrier 90 can be located at any height relative to the items B. As shown in FIG. In some embodiments, the carrier 90 is centrally located between the upper and lower ends of the item B. As shown in FIG.

The blank 10 includes a main panel 12; the main panel 12 includes opposed border end portions 12a, 12b and a joist panel 40a, 40b, 42a, 42b disposed therebetween.

The blank 10 comprises a first boundary end portion 12a stamped from the main panel 12; the first boundary end portion 12a forms a first inner end wall of the carrier 90 in the erected state. The first boundary end portion 12a is also referred to herein as an end bridging strap and may be used to provide a carrying handle at the first end of the carrier 90 .

The blank 10 comprises a second boundary end portion 12b stamped from the main panel 12; the second boundary end portion 12b forms a second inner end wall of the carrier 90 in the erected state. The second boundary end portion 12b is also referred to herein as an end bridging strap and may be used to provide a carrying handle at the second end of the carrier 90 .

The blank 10 includes a first jog structure IS1 and a second joist structure IS2 each stamped from the main panel 12 .

The blank 10 includes a first pair of joist panels 40a, 40b. The first pair of joist panels 40a, 40b are stamped from the main panel 12 and are hingedly connected to each other by a fold line 41 . The first pair of joist panels 40a, 40b are disposed adjacent to the first boundary end portion 12a and separated therefrom by a cut or divisible line.

The blank 10 includes a second pair of joist panels 42a, 42b. The second pair of joist panels 42 a , 42 b are stamped from the main panel 12 and are hingedly connected to each other by fold lines 43 . The second pair of joist panels 42a, 42b are disposed adjacent to the second boundary end portion 12b and separated therefrom by a cut or divisible line. The second pair of joist panels 42a, 42b is disposed adjacent to the first pair of joist panels 40a, 40b and separated therefrom by a cut or separable line.

The blank 10 includes a first side panel 18 and a second side panel 20 disposed on opposite sides of the main panel 12 .

The first boundary end portion 12a is hingedly connected to the first side panel 18 and the second side panel 20 .

The first boundary end portion 12a is hingedly connected to the first gusset panel 22a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 21a. The first web panel 24a is hingedly connected to the first gusset panel 22a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 23a. The first web panel 24a is hingedly connected to the first side panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 17a.

The first boundary end portion 12a is hingedly connected to the second gusset panel 22b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 21b. The second web panel 24b is hingedly connected to the second gusset panel 22b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 23b. The second web panel 24b is hingedly connected to the second side panel 20 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 19a.

The second boundary end portion 12b is hingedly connected to the first side panel 18 and the second side panel 20 .

The second boundary end portion 12b is hingedly connected to the third gusset panel 34a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 33a. The third web panel 36a is hingedly connected to the third gusset panel 34a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 35a. The third web panel 36a is hingedly connected to the first side panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 17b.

The second boundary end portion 12b is hingedly connected to the fourth gusset panel 34b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 33b. The fourth web panel 36b is hingedly connected to the fourth gusset panel 34b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 35b. The fourth web panel 36b is hingedly connected to the second side panel 20 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 19b.

A first pair of joist panels 40 a , 40 b are hingedly connected to each of the first side panel 18 and the second side panel 20 . The first strut panel 44a is hingedly connected to the first end of the first joist panel 40a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 45a. The second strut panel 46a is hingedly connected to the second end of the first joist panel 40a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 45b.

The first strut panel 44a is hingedly connected to the first bracket panel 48a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 47a. The second strut panel 46a is hingedly connected to the second bracket panel 48b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 47b.

The third strut panel 44b is hingedly connected to the first end of the second joist panel 40b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 45c. The fourth strut panel 46b is hingedly connected to the second end of the second joist panel 40b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 45d.

The third strut panel 44b is hingedly connected to the first bracket panel 48a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 47c. The fold line 47c is arranged divergently with respect to the fold line 47a. The first bracket panel 48a is hingedly connected to the first side panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 17c. The first bracket panel 48a may be substantially triangular in shape. The first strut panel 44a and the second strut panel 46a may be substantially triangular in shape.

The fourth strut panel 46b is hingedly connected to the second bracket panel 48b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 47d. The fold line 47d is arranged divergently with respect to the fold line 47b. The second bracket panel 48b is hingedly connected to the second side panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 19c. The second bracket panel 48b may be substantially triangular in shape. The third strut panel 44b and the fourth strut panel 46b may be substantially triangular in shape.

A second pair of joist panels 42 a , 42 b is hingedly connected to each of the first side panel 18 and the second side panel 20 . Fifth strut panel 50a is hingedly connected to a first end of fourth keel panel 42a by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 49a. The sixth strut panel 52a is hingedly connected to the second end of the fourth keel panel 42a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 479b.

The fifth strut panel 50a is hingedly connected to the third bracket panel 54a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 51a. The sixth strut panel 52a is hingedly connected to the fourth bracket panel 54b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 49b.

The seventh strut panel 50b is hingedly connected to the first end of the third joist panel 42b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 49c. The eighth strut panel 52b is hingedly connected to the second end of the third joist panel 42b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 49d.

The seventh strut panel 50b is hingedly connected to the third bracket panel 54a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 51c. The fold line 51c is arranged divergently with respect to the fold line 51a. The third bracket panel 54a is hingedly connected to the first side panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 17d. The third bracket panel 54a may be substantially triangular in shape. The shape of the fifth strut panel 50a and the sixth strut panel 52a may be substantially triangular.

The eighth strut panel 52b is hingedly connected to the fourth bracket panel 54b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 51d. The fold line 49d is arranged divergently with respect to the fold line 51b. The fourth bracket panel 54b is hingedly connected to the second side panel 18 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 19d. The fourth bracket panel 54b may be substantially triangular in shape. The shape of the seventh strut panel 50b and the eighth strut panel 52b may be substantially triangular.

The blank 10 comprises a plurality of cutouts in the form of apertures A1 , A2 , A3 , A4 , A5 , A6 . The first aperture A1 separates the first gusset panel 22a and a portion of the first boundary end portion 12a from the first strut panel 44a. The second aperture A2 separates the second gusset panel 22b and a portion of the first boundary end portion 12a from the second strut panel 46a. The third aperture A3 separates the third strut panel 44b from the fifth strut panel 50a. The fourth aperture A4 separates the fourth strut panel 46b from the sixth strut panel 52a. The fifth aperture A5 separates the third gusset panel 34a and a portion of the second boundary end portion 12b from the seventh strut panel 50b. The sixth aperture A6 separates the fourth gusset panel 34b and a portion of the second boundary end portion 12b from the eighth strut panel 52b.

The first aperture A1 , the third aperture A3 and the fifth aperture A5 separate portions of the first side panel 18 from the main panel 12 . The second aperture A2 , the fourth aperture A4 and the sixth aperture A6 separate portions of the second side panel 20 from the main panel 12 .

The blank 10 includes a first outer end panel 14 (also referred to herein as a first reinforcement strip). A first outer end panel 14 is hingedly connected to the main panel 12 along a first end thereof by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 13 . The first outer end panel 14 is hingedly connected to the first boundary end portion 12a.

The free edge El of the first outer end panel 14 may be shaped or contoured to provide a comfortable carrying handle. In the illustrated embodiment, an arcuate recess R1 is defined in the free edge E1 opposite the edge hinged to the main panel 12 .

The blank 10 includes a second outer end panel 16 (also referred to herein as a second reinforcing strip). The second outer end panel 16 is hingedly connected to the main panel 12 along its second end by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 15 . The second outer end panel 16 is hingedly connected to the second boundary end portion 12b.

The free edge E2 of the second outer end panel 16 may be shaped or contoured to provide a comfortable carrying handle. In the illustrated embodiment, the arcuate recess R2 is defined at the free edge E2 opposite the edge hinged to the main panel 12 .

The first corner panel 26a is hingedly connected to the first end of the first outer end panel 14 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 25a. The first fixed panel 28a is hingedly connected to the first corner panel 26a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 27a.

The second corner panel 26b is hingedly connected to the second end of the first outer end panel 14 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 25b. The second fixed panel 28b is hingedly connected to the second corner panel 26b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 27b.

The third corner panel 30a is hingedly connected to the first end of the second outer end panel 16 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 29a. The third fixed panel 32a is hingedly connected to the third corner panel 30a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 31a.

The fourth corner panel 30b is hingedly connected to the second end of the second outer end panel 16 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 29b. The fourth fixed panel 32b is hingedly connected to the fourth corner panel 30b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 31b.

A cutout or recess separates the first corner panel 26 a from the first web panel 24 a , which separates the first fixed panel 28 a from the first side panel 18 .

A cutout or recess separates the second corner panel 26b from the second web panel 24b , which separates the second fixed panel 28b from the second side panel 20 .

A cutout or recess separates the third corner panel 30a from the third web panel 36a , which separates the third fixed panel 32a from the first side panel 18 .

A cutout or recess separates the fourth corner panel 30 b from the fourth web panel 36 b , which separates the fourth fixed panel 32 b from the second side panel 20 .

The fold line 25a is collinear with the fold line 21a. The fold line 33a is collinear with the fold line 29a. The fold lines 25a, 21a are collinear with the fold lines 33a, 29a.

The fold line 45a is collinear with the fold line 45c, the fold line 49a and the fold line 49c.

The fold lines 45a, 45c, 49a and 49c are offset and parallel to the fold lines 25a, 21a and 33a, 29a.

The fold line 25b is collinear with the fold line 21b. The fold line 33b is collinear with the fold line 29b. The fold lines 25b, 21b are collinear with the fold lines 33b, 29b.

The fold line 45b is collinear with the fold line 45d, the fold line 49b and the fold line 49d.

The fold lines 45b, 45d, 49b and the fold line 49d are offset and parallel to the fold lines 25b, 21b and the fold lines 33b, 29b.

In this way, the length of the joist panels 40a, 40b, 42a, 42b in the transverse direction is shorter than that of the first inner end panel 12a and the second inner end panel 12b and the first outer end panel 14 and the second outer end panel 16 is shorter.

Optionally, the first side panel 18 may include a first fold line F1 extending transversely therethrough. A first fold line F1 extends from the inner end of the fold line 17a at the point where the fold line meets the first aperture A1 and extends perpendicularly from there.

Optionally, the first side panel 18 may include a second fold line F2 extending transversely therethrough. A second fold line F2 extends from the inner end of the fold line 17b at the point where it meets the fifth aperture A5 and extends perpendicularly from there.

The first fold line F1 and the second fold line F2 each at least partially define side end portions 18a, 18b which are foldable about a respective one of the first fold line F1 and the second fold line F2 to wrap around corners or endmost articles. B tightens the carrier 90.

Optionally, the second side panel 20 may include a third fold line F3 extending transversely therethrough. A third fold line F3 extends from the inner end of the fold line 19a at the point where the fold line meets the second aperture A2 and extends perpendicularly from there.

Optionally, the second side panel 20 may include a fourth fold line F4 extending transversely therethrough. A fourth fold line F4 extends from the inner end of the fold line 19b at the point where the fold line meets the sixth aperture A6 and extends perpendicularly from there.

The third fold line F3 and the fourth fold line F4 each at least partially define side end portions 20a, 20b which are foldable about a respective one of the third fold line F3 and the fourth fold line F4 to wrap around corners or endmost articles B tightens the carrier 90.

In the erected state, the first side panel 18 is folded about the fold lines 17a, 17b, 17c, 17d with respect to the main panel 12 so that its first, printed or finished surface is disposed outermost and the second side panel 20 is opposite. The main panel 12 is folded about fold lines 19a, 19b, 19c, 19 so that its first, printed or finished surface is disposed outermost.

The first inner end panel 12a is folded about the fold lines 23a, 23b such that its second, opposite or unfinished surface is disposed outermost. The second inner end panel 12b is folded about the fold lines 35a, 35b such that its second, reverse or unfinished surface is disposed outermost.

First joist panel 40a and second joist panel 40b are folded relative to each other about fold line 41 into a substantially face-to-face relationship. The third keel panel 42a and the fourth keel panel 42b are folded relative to each other about the fold line 43 into a substantially face-to-face relationship.

The first bracket panel 48 a and the third bracket panel 54 a fold at an oblique angle to the first side panel 18 .

The second bracket panel 48b and the fourth bracket panel 54b are folded at an oblique angle to the second side panel 20 .

The first strut panel 44a and the third strut panel 44b extend divergently from the first joist panel 40a and the second joist panel 40b to the first bracket panel 48a. The second strut panel 46a and the fourth strut panel 46b extend divergently from the first joist panel 40a and the second joist panel 40b to the second bracket panel 48b.

The fifth strut panel 50a and the seventh strut panel 50b extend divergently from the third keel panel 42a and the fourth keel panel 42b to the third bracket panel 54a. The sixth strut panel 52a and the eighth strut panel 52b extend divergently from the third keel panel 42a and the fourth keel panel 42b to the fourth bracket panel 54b.

The first outer end panel 14 is folded about the fold line 13 relative to the first inner end panel 12a so as to be disposed in face-to-face relationship therewith.

The second outer end panel 16 is folded about the fold line 15 relative to the second inner end panel 12b so as to be disposed in face-to-face relationship therewith.

Glue G or other adhesive treatment (such as, but not limited to, hot melt glue) is applied to the inner surface of the first side panel 18 or alternatively to the outer surface of the first fixed panel 28a and the third fixed panel 32a. The first fixed panel 28 a and the third fixed panel 32 a are fixed to the first side panel 18 .

Glue G or other adhesive treatment (such as, but not limited to, hot melt glue) is applied to the inner surface of the second side panel 20 or alternatively to the outer surface of the second fixed panel 28b and the fourth fixed panel 32b. The second fixed panel 28 b and the fourth fixed panel 32 b are fixed to the second side panel 18 .

The first side panel and the second side panel may be secured directly to item B using short-release glue G2. An example of a specific glue is Swift 7044 manufactured by HB Fuller. The use of a short-acting glue is optional, the advantage of a short-acting glue is that it tends to remain attached to the carrier 90 when the item B is detached from the carrier 90 (this may be more desirable than keeping glue G2 attached to the item B) . In alternative embodiments, other adhesives such as, but not limited to, hot melt adhesives may be employed.

The carrier 90 is shown in FIGS. 2 and 3 ; Carrier 90 may be mounted to item B at any position along the cylindrical axis of item B such that when carrier 90 and item B are at rest (their cylindrical axes are approximately upright) as shown in FIG. 90 may be positioned at any height between the upper and lower ends of the article B. In the illustrated embodiment, the carrier 90 is centrally located.

FIG. 3 illustrates the carrier 90 being transported by the user U. As shown in FIG. The inner end wall 12b and outer end wall 16 are shown as carrying handles and can be bent upward or outward. A user may engage the inner end wall panel 12 b and the outer end wall panel 16 by inserting at least one finger into the gap between a pair of adjacent endmost items B and the carrier 90 .

Referring now to FIGS. 4 , 5 and 6 , additional embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. In the second and third illustrated embodiments, similar numerals have been used where possible to denote similar parts, but the prefix "100" has been added; "200" to indicate that these features belong to the second and third embodiment. These additional embodiments share many common features with the first embodiment, and therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 3 will be described in detail.

Figure 4 illustrates a second embodiment and shows a blank 110 for forming a carrier (not shown). FIG. 5 illustrates a third embodiment and shows a blank 210 for forming a carrier 290 as shown in FIG. 6 . The carrier 290 takes the form of an intermediate band or clip; the carrier 290 includes openings configured to receive the items B, the openings being arranged to accommodate the neck N and the body M of the item B.

The blank 110; 210 comprises a main panel 112; 212; the main panel 112; 212 comprises opposed border end portions 112a, 112b; 212a, 212b and a keel panel 140a, 140b, 142a, 142b; 242a, 242b.

The blank 110; 210 comprises a first boundary end portion 112a; 212a stamped from the main panel 112; 212; the first boundary end portion 112a; . The first boundary end portion 112 a ; 212 a is also referred to herein as an end bridging strap and may be used to provide a carrying handle at the first end of the carrier 290 .

The blank 110; 210 comprises a second boundary end portion 112b; 212b stamped from the main panel 112; 212; the second boundary end portion 112b; 212b forms a second inner end wall of the carrier 290 in the erected state . The second boundary end portion 112b ; 212b is also referred to herein as an end bridging strap and may be used to provide a carrying handle at the second end of the carrier 290 .

The blank 110; 210 comprises a first joist structure IS1 and a second joist structure IS2, each stamped from the main panel 112; 212.

The blank 110; 210 comprises a first pair of joist panels 140a, 140b; 240a, 240b. The first pair of keel panels 140a, 140b; 240a, 240b are stamped from the main panel 112; 212 and are hingedly connected to each other by fold lines 141; 241. The first pair of joist panels 140a, 140b; 240a, 240b are disposed adjacent to the first boundary end portion 112a; 212a and separated therefrom by a cut or separable line.

The blank 110; 210 comprises a second pair of joist panels 142a, 142b; 242a, 242b. The second pair of keel panels 142a, 142b; 242a, 242b are stamped from the main panel 112; 212 and are hingedly connected to each other by fold lines 143; 243. The second pair of joist panels 142a, 142b; 242a, 242b are disposed adjacent to the second boundary end portion 112b; 212b and separated therefrom by a cut or separable line. The second pair of joist panels 142a, 142b; 242a, 242b is disposed adjacent to the first pair of joist panels 140a, 140b; 240a, 240b and separated therefrom by a cut or separable line.

The blank 110 ; 210 comprises a first side panel 118 ; 218 and a second side panel 120 ; 220 disposed on opposite sides of the main panel 112 ; 212 .

The first boundary end portion 112a; 212a is hingedly connected to the first side panel 118; 218 and the second side panel 120; 220.

The blank 110; 210 comprises additional cut-outs in the form of orifices A7, A8, A9, A10. The blank 110 ; 210 comprises a seventh aperture A7 stamped from the main panel 112 ; 212 . The seventh aperture A7 is stamped from the first joist panel 140a; 240a, the second joist panel 140b; 240b, the first strut panel 144a; 244a, the first bracket panel 148a; 248a, and the third strut panel 144b; 244b.

The blank 110; 210 comprises an eighth aperture A8 stamped from the main panel 112; 212. The eighth aperture A8 is stamped from the first joist panel 140a; 240a, the second joist panel 140b; 240b, the second strut panel 146a; 246a, the second bracket panel 148b; 248b, and the fourth strut panel 146b; 246b.

The blank 110 ; 210 comprises a ninth aperture A9 stamped from the main panel 112 ; 212 . The ninth aperture A9 is stamped from the third keel panel 142a; 242a, the fourth keel panel 142b; 242b, the fifth strut panel 150a; 250a, the third bracket panel 154a; 254a, and the seventh strut panel 150b; 250b.

The blank 110 ; 210 comprises a tenth aperture A10 stamped from the main panel 112 ; 212 . The tenth aperture A10 is stamped from the third keel panel 142a; 242a, the fourth keel panel 142b; 242b, the sixth strut panel 152a; 250a, the fourth bracket panel 154b; 254b, and the eighth strut panel 152b; 252b.

The orifices A7, A8, A9, A10 may be substantially pentagonal in shape. One of the edges of the apertures A7, A8, A9, A10 may be curved or arcuate in order to be convex. The curved edges of the apertures A7, A8, A9, A10 define the upper edges of the first support panel 148a; 248a, the second support panel 148b; 248b, the third support panel 154a; 254a and the fourth support panel 154b; The edges are arched between adjacent pairs of bracket panels 144a/144b; 244a/244b, 146a/146b; 246a/246b, 150a/150b; 250a/250b, 152a/152b; 252a/252b.

The orifices A7, A8, A9, A10 stamped from the main panel 112 are larger in size than the orifices A7, A8, A9, A10 stamped from the main panel 212 such that the orifices A7 stamped from the main panel 212 , A8, A9, A10 extend further into the joist panels 140a, 140b, 142a, 142b; The fold lines 141 , 143 are shorter than the fold lines 241 , 243 .

The blank 110; 210 comprises a first outer end panel 114; 214 (also referred to herein as a first reinforcing strip). The first outer end panel 114; 214 is hingedly connected to the main panel 112; 212 along its first end by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 113; 213. The first outer end panel 114; 214 is hingedly connected to the first boundary end portion 112a; 212a.

The blank 110; 210 comprises a second outer end panel 116; 216 (also referred to herein as a second reinforcing strip). The second outer end panel 116; 216 is hingedly connected to the main panel 112; 212 along its second end by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 115; 215. The second outer end panel 116; 216 is hingedly connected to the second boundary end portion 112b; 212b.

The first corner panel 126a; 226a is hingedly connected to the first end of the first outer end panel 114; 214 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 125a; 225a. The first fixed panel 128a; 228a is hingedly connected to the first corner panel 126a; 226a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 127a; 227a.

The second corner panel 126b; 226b is hingedly connected to the second end of the first outer end panel 114; 214 by a hinge connection in the form of a fold line 125b; 225b. The second fixed panel 128b; 228b is hingedly connected to the second corner panel 126b; 226b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 127b; 227b.

The third corner panel 130a; 230a is hingedly connected to the first end of the second outer end panel 116; 216 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 129a; 229a. The third fixed panel 132; 232a is hingedly connected to the third corner panel 130a; 230a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 131a; 231a.

The fourth corner panel 130b; 230b is hingedly connected to the second end of the second outer end panel 116; 216 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 129b; 229b. The fourth fixed panel 132b; 232b is hingedly connected to the fourth corner panel 130b; 230b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 131b; 231b.

A cutout or recess separates the first corner panel 126a; 226a from the first web panel 124a; 224a. The cut-out separates the first fixed panel 128a; 228a from the first side panel 118; 218. The cutout or recess is stamped in part from the material that would otherwise form part of the first web panel 124a; 224a and the first gusset panel 122a; 222a so as to form the undercut.

A cutout or recess separates the second corner panel 126b; 226b from the second web panel 124b; 224b. The cut-out separates the second fixed panel 128b; 228b from the second side panel 120; 220. The cutout or recess is stamped in part from the material that would otherwise form part of the second web panel 124b; 224b and the second gusset panel 122b; 222b so as to form the undercut.

A cutout or recess separates the third corner panel 130a; 230a from the third web panel 136a; 236a. The cut-out separates the third fixed panel 132a; 232a from the first side panel 118; 218. The cutout or recess is stamped in part from the material that would otherwise form part of the third web panel 136a; 236a and the third gusset panel 134a; 234a so as to form the undercut.

A cutout or recess separates the fourth corner panel 130b; 230b from the fourth web panel 136b; 236b. The cut-out separates the fourth fixed panel 132b; 232b from the second side panel 120; 220. The cutout or recess is stamped in part from the material that would otherwise form part of the fourth web panel 136a; 236a and the fourth gusset panel 134a; 234a so as to form the undercut.

The undercuts in the blank 110 of FIG. 4 are larger than the undercuts in the blank 210 of FIG. 5 .

In the blank 210, the fold line 225a is arranged divergently with respect to the fold line 221a. The fold lines 225b are arranged divergently with respect to the fold lines 221b. The fold line 225a is arranged divergently with respect to the fold line 225b and is arranged to diverge towards the free edge of the first outer end panel 214 .

In the blank 210, the fold line 229a is arranged divergently with respect to the fold line 233a. The fold line 229 is arranged divergently with respect to the fold line 233b. The fold line 229a is arranged divergently with respect to the fold line 229b and is arranged to diverge towards the free edge of the second outer end panel 216 .

The free edge of the first outer end panel 114; 214, and each of the first and second corner panels 126a; 226a; 226b; 226b may be shaped or contoured to provide a comfortable carrying handle. In the illustrated embodiment, the arcuate recesses are stamped from or defined in the first outer end panel 14; 214 and the first and second corner panels 126a; 226a; 226a; 226b.

The free edge of the second outer end panel 116; 216, and each of the third and fourth corner panels 130a; 230a; 130b; 230b may be shaped or contoured to provide a comfortable carrying handle. In the illustrated embodiment, the arcuate recesses are stamped from or defined in the second outer end panel 116; 216 and the third and fourth corner panels 130a; 230a; 230a; 230b.

In the embodiment of FIG. 5, glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to both sides of the fixed panels 228a, 228b, 232a, 232b.

The first adhesive element G is applied to the first, printed or finished surface of the fixed panel 228a, 228b, 232a, 232b; the first adhesive element G may extend into the corner panel 226a, 226b, 230a, 230b on the adjacent one. A first adhesive element G secures the fixed panels 228a , 228b , 232a , 232b (and the corner panels 226a , 226b , 230a , 230b ) to a respective one of the first side panel 218 and the second side panel 220 .

The second adhesive element G2 is applied to the second, reverse or unfinished surface of the fixed panel 228a, 228b, 232a, 232b. The second adhesive element G2 secures the securing panels 228 a , 228 b , 232 a , 232 b to an adjacently disposed one of the items B packaged by the carrier 290 .

In the embodiment of FIG. 5 , the arrangement of the first adhesive element G results in the side end portions 218 a , 218 b forming rounded or beveled corners at opposite ends of the carrier 290 . Similarly, side end portions 220 a , 220 b form rounded or beveled corners at opposite ends of carrier 290 .

In the embodiment of FIGS. 1-4, the side end portions 18a, 18b; 118a, 118b may not be fixed or affected by: fixed panels 28a, 28b, 32a, 32b; 128a, 128b, 132a, 132b and corner panels 26a, 26b, 30a, 30b; 126a, 126b, 130a, 130b.

In the embodiment of Figures 1 to 5, each fixed panel 28a, 28b, 32a, 32b; Mixture elements G2 are bonded or otherwise secured to respective outwardly facing sides of article B. The fixed panels 28a, 28b, 32a, 32b; 128a, 128b, 132a, 132b, 228a, 228b, 232a, 232b may be bonded or secured at their outer surfaces to adjacent side panels by corresponding first adhesive elements G 18, 118, 218, 20, 120, 220 inner surfaces. This results in a bonded two-layer structure at locations at or near each corner of the carrier where the first or outer layer of material (e.g., side panels 18, 118, 218, 20, 120, 220) passes through the second An adhesive element G is bonded to the second or inner layer material (e.g., fixed panels 28a, 28b, 32a, 32b; 128a, 128b, 132a, 132b, 228a, 228b, 232a, 232b), and wherein the second or inner layer material (e.g., fixed panel 28a, 28b, 32a, 32b; 128a, 128b, 132a, 132b, 228a, 228b, 232a, 232b) is bonded to packaged item B (such as a can , bottle or brick-shaped package B). In some embodiments, the adhesive element G2 on each fixed panel 28a, 28b, 32a, 32b; , and at least one of the adhesive elements G on each side panel 18, 118, 218, 20, 120, 220 is positioned such that when the blank is constructed in its carrier form, all or all of the adhesive element G2 A portion overlaps at least a portion of the adhesive element G.

Referring now to FIGS. 7 and 8 , additional embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. In the fourth illustrated embodiment, like numerals have been used where possible to refer to like parts, but the prefix "300" has been added to indicate that these features belong to the fourth embodiment. This additional embodiment shares many common features with the first, second and third embodiments, and therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 6 will be described in detail.

The blank 310 includes a main panel 312; the main panel 312 includes opposed border end portions 312a, 312b and a keel panel 340a, 340b, 342a, 342b disposed therebetween.

The blank 310 includes a first border end portion 312a stamped from the main panel 312; the first border end portion 312a forms a first inner end wall of the carrier 390 in the erected state. The first boundary end portion 312a is also referred to herein as an end bridging strap and may be used to provide a carrying handle at the first end of the carrier 390 .

The blank 310 includes a second border end portion 312b stamped from the main panel 312; the second border end portion 312b forms a second inner end wall of the carrier 390 in the erected state. The second boundary end portion 312b is also referred to herein as an end bridging strap and may be used to provide a carrying handle at the second end of the carrier 390 .

Blank 310 includes a first joist structure IS1 and a second joist structure IS2 each stamped from a main panel 312 .

The blank 310 includes a first pair of joist panels 340a, 340b. The first pair of joist panels 340a, 340b are stamped from the main panel 312 and are hingedly connected to each other by a fold line 341 . The first pair of joist panels 340a, 340b are disposed adjacent to the first boundary end portion 312a and separated therefrom by a cut or separable line.

The blank 310 includes a second pair of joist panels 342a, 342b. The second pair of keel panels 342 a , 342 b are stamped from the main panel 312 and are hingedly connected to each other by fold lines 343 . The second pair of joist panels 342a, 342b are disposed adjacent to the second boundary end portion 312b and separated therefrom by a cut or separable line. The second pair of keel panels 342a, 342b is disposed adjacent to the first pair of keel panels 340a, 340b and separated therefrom by a cut or separable line.

The blank 310 includes a first side panel 318 and a second side panel 320 disposed on opposite sides of the main panel 312 .

The first boundary end portion 312a is hingedly connected to the first side panel 318 and the second side panel 320 .

In the embodiment of Figures 7 and 8, the first outer panel 14; 114; 214 and the second outer panel 16; 116; 216 of the previous embodiments have been omitted. Corner panels 26a, 26b, 30a, 30b; 126a, 126b, 130a, 130b; 226a, 226b, 230a, 230b and fixed panels 28a, 28b, 32a, 32b; 128a, 128b, 132a, 132b; 228a, 228b, 232a, 232b has also been omitted.

In the embodiment of Figures 7 and 8, the size of the first gusset panel 322a has been increased compared to the other disclosed embodiments; this has been achieved by reducing the first aperture compared to the other disclosed embodiments. Port A1 size to achieve. The dimensions of the second gusset panel 322b, the third gusset panel 334a, and the fourth gusset panel 334b are similarly increased compared to the other disclosed embodiments; The dimensions of the second orifice A2, the fifth orifice A5 and the sixth orifice A6 are realized.

This provides a larger area for securing the gusset panels 322a , 322b , 334a , 334b to the first side panel 318 and the second side panel 320 . Glue or adhesive treatment G is applied to the first side panel 318 and the second side panel 320 or gusset panels 322a, 322b, 334a, 334b.

Blank 310 may include a first, printed or finished surface and a second, reverse or unfinished surface.

The second, opposite surface of the gusset panels 322a , 322b , 334a , 334b is secured to the second, opposite surface of the first side panel 318 or the second side panel 320 .

The first gusset panel 322a and the third gusset panel 334a are separated from the first side panel 318 by cutouts in the form of cut lines, divisible lines, or grooves. The second gusset panel 322b and the fourth gusset panel 334b are separated from the second side panel 320 by cutouts in the form of cut lines, divisible lines or grooves.

The inner edges of the first border portion 312a and the second border portion 312b are shaped or contoured to complement an adjacent one of the joist panels 340a, 342a. The contoured edges provide the lower edges of the first end wall 312a and the second end wall 312b of the carrier 390 in the erect state.

The first border portion 312a and the second border portion 312b are flared at each end thereof so as to be similar in height to the gusset panels 322a, 322b, 334a, 334b.

The present disclosure provides a carrier 90; 190; 290 having a main panel 12; 112; 212; 312 having an opening for receiving at least one item B and for spacing a pair of adjacent items B apart. Open or separated at least one keel structure IS1, IS2.

The joist structures IS1, IS2 may comprise a pair of joist panels 40a/40b, 42a/42b; 140a/140b, 142a/142b; 240a hingedly connected to each other by fold lines 41, 43; /240b, 242a/242b; 340a/340b, 342a/342b. The joist structures IS1, IS2 may include hingedly connected to a respective one of the pair of joist panels 40a/40b, 42a/42b; 140a/140b, 142a/142b; 240a/240b, 242a/242b; A pair of strut panels 44a, 44b, 46a, 46b, 50a, 50b, 52a, 52b; 144a, 144b, 146a, 146b, 150a, 150b, 152a, 152b; , 252b; 344a, 344b, 346a, 346b, 350a, 350b, 352a, 352b. Frame panels 48a, 48b, 54a, 54b; 148a, 148b, 154a, 154b; 248a, 248b, 254a, 254b; 348a, 348b, 354a, 354b. 52a, 52b; 144a, 144b, 146a, 146b, 150a, 150b, 152a, 152b; 244a, 244b, 246a, 246b, 250a, 250b, 252a, 252b; 344a, 344b, 346a, 346b, 350a, 350b, 352a, The first of 352b is coupled to the pair of strut panels 44a, 44b, 46a, 46b, 50a, 50b, 52a, 52b; 144a, 144b, 146a, 146b, 150a, 150b, 152a, 152b; The other of 246b, 250a, 250b, 252a, 252b; 344a, 344b, 346a, 346b, 350a, 350b, 352a, 352b. The apertures may be partially stamped from each of: the pair of keel panels 40a/40b, 42a/42b; 140a/140b, 142a/142b; 240a/240b, 242a/242b; 340a/340b, 342a/342b, the pair of strut panels 44a, 44b, 46a, 46b, 50a, 50b, 52a, 52b; 144a, 144b, 146a, 146b, 150a, 150b, 152a, 152b; 250b, 252a, 252b; 344a, 344b, 346a, 346b, 350a, 350b, 352a, 352b, and bracket panels 48a, 48b, 54a, 54b; 148a, 148b, 154a, 154b; 248a, 248b, 254a, 254b; 348a , 348b, 354a, 354b.

The present disclosure provides an item carrier 90; 290 having at least two layers of strap handles at one or both of the opposing ends of the carrier 90; 290. The end bridging straps 12a, 12b; 112a, 112b; 212a, 212b are hingedly connected to the reinforcement straps 14, 16; 114, 116; 214, 216 along their respective upper edges. The reinforcing straps 14, 16; 114, 116; 214, 216 are secured at their opposite ends to the side panels or straps 18, 20; 118, 120; 218, 220 of the carrier 90; 290.

The article carrier 90; 290 may be formed from a material having a first, printed or finished surface and a second, reverse or unfinished surface opposite the first surface. The second, opposite surface of the end bridging strips 12a, 12b; 112a, 112b; 212a, 212b is arranged to face the second, opposite surface of the reinforcing strips 14, 16; 114, 116; 214, 216. The first, printed or finished surface of the end bridging strip 12a, 12b; 112a, 112b; 212a, 212b is arranged to face inwardly towards the interior of the carrier 90; 290. The first, printed or finished surface of the reinforcement strip 14 , 16 ; 114 , 116 ; 214 , 216 is placed facing outwardly to provide the outer face of the carrier 90 ; 290 .

The reinforcing strips 14, 16; 114, 116; 214, 216 may comprise or be connected to: along the fold lines 25a, 25b, 29a, 29b; 125a, 125b, 129a, 129b; 225a, 225b, 229a, 229b hingedly connected corner panels 26a, 26b, 30a, 30b; 126a, 126b, 130a, 130b; 226a, 226b, 230a, 230b; and along fold lines 27a, 27b, 31a, 31b; 227a, 227b, 231a, 231b are hingedly connected to the end flaps 28a, 28b, 32a, 32b of the corner panels 26a, 26b, 30a, 30b; 126a, 126b, 130a, 130b; 128a, 128b, 132a, 132b; 228a, 228b, 232a, 232b.

End flaps 28a, 28b, 32a, 32b; 128a, 128b, 132a, 132b; 228a, 228b, 232a, 232b and corner panels 26a, 26b, 30a, 30b; 126a, 126b, 130a, 130b; 226a, 226b, At least one of 230a, 230b is secured to adjacent side panels or straps 18, 20; 118, 120; 218, 220 of the carrier 90; 290.

The corner panels 26a, 26b, 30a, 30b; 126a, 126b, 130a, 130b; 226a, 226b, 230a, 230b may be secured to adjacent side panels or strips 18, 20; 118, 120; 218, 220 to form the carrier 90 ; 290 bevel or rounded corners.

The end flaps 28a, 28b, 32a, 32b; 128a, 128b, 132a, 132b; 228a, 228b, 232a, 232b may be secured to adjacent side panels or straps 18, 20; 118, 120; 218, 220 to form load bearing Bevel or rounded corners of device 90; 290.

Glue or adhesive treatment (such as, hot melt glue) can be applied to end flap 28a, 28b, 32a, 32b; or the surface has been refinished. The first, printed or finished surface of the end flap 28a, 28b, 32a, 32b; 128a, 128b, 132a, 132b; 228a, 228b, 232a, 232b may be secured to the adjacent side panel or strip 18, 20; 118, 120; the second, reverse surface of 218, 220.

A glue or adhesive treatment (such as hot melt) may be applied to the first, printed or printed corner panels 26a, 26b, 30a, 30b; Finish the surface. A first, printed or finished surface of a corner panel 26a, 26b, 30a, 30b; 126a, 126b, 130a, 130b; 226a, 226b, 230a, 230b may be secured to an adjacent side panel or strip 18, 20; 118, 120; 218, the second, reverse surface of 220.

End portions 18a, 18b, 20a, 20b; 118a, 118b, 120a, 120b; 218a, 218b, 220a, 220b may be secured (glue or adhesive treatment - such as but not limited to hot melt - may be employed) 126a, 126b, 130a, 130b; 226a, 226b, 230a, 230b to form beveled or rounded corners of the carrier 90; 290.

The end portions 18a, 18b, 20a, 20b; 118a, 118b, 120a, 120b; 218a, 218b, 220a, 220b may be at least partially defined by fold lines Fl, F2, F3, F4.

End bridging straps 12a, 12b; 112a, 112b; 212a, 212b may pass through gusset panels 22a, 22b, 34a, 34b; 122a, 122b, 134a, 134b; 222a, 222b, 234a, 234b and web panels 24a, 24b , 36a, 36b; 124a, 124b, 136a, 136b; 224a, 224b, 236a, 236b are hingedly connected to adjacent side panels or straps 18, 20; 118, 120; 218, 220. Corner panels 26a, 26b, 30a, 30b; 126a, 126b, 130a, 130b; 226a, 226b, 230a, 230b may be inserted into corner panels 22a, 22b, 34a, 34b; 122a, 122b, 134a, 134b; 222a, 222b, 234a, 234b and the web panels 24a, 24b, 36a, 36b; 124a, 124b, 136a, 136b; 224a, 224b, 236a, 236b, so as to provide a double-layer triple-layer section with handles.

Gusset panels 22a, 22b, 34a, 34b; 122a, 122b, 134a, 134b; 222a, 222b, 234a, 234b through fold lines 21a, 21b, 33a, 33b; 121a, 121b, 133a, 133b; 221a, 221b, 233a, 233b is hingedly connected to adjacent side panels or straps 18 , 20 ; 118 , 120 ; 218 , 220 . Lines 21a, 21b, 33a, 33b; 121a, 121b, 133a, 133b; 221a, 221b, 233a, 233b and lines 25a, 25b, 29a, 29b; 125a, 125b, 129a, 129b; 225a, 225b, 229a, 229b can be Define the obtuse angle between them.

The present disclosure provides a blank 10; 110; 210; 310 for forming an article carrier 90; 290; 390. The blank 10; 110; 210; 310 comprises a main panel 12; 112; 212; 312 and adjacent side panels 18, 20; 118, 120; 218, 220; The main panel 12; 112; 212; 312 comprises end bridging strips 12a, 12b; 112a, 112b; 212a, 212b; 312a, 312b and joist structures IS1, IS2. The joist structure IS1, IS2 comprises at least one joist panel 40a, 40b, 42a, 42b; 140a, 140b, 142a, 142b; 240a, 240b, 242a, 242b; 340a, 430b, 342a, 342b. The blank comprises gusset panels 22a, 22a, 218, 220; 22b, 34a, 34b; 122a, 122b, 134a, 134b; 222a, 222b, 234a, 234b; 322a, 322b, 334a, 334b. Gusset panels 22a, 22b, 34a, 34b; 122a, 122b, 134a, 134b; 222a, 222b, 234a, 234b; 322a, 322b, 334a, 334b through fold lines 21a, 21b, 33a, 33b; 121a, 121b, 133a, 133b; 221a, 221b, 233a, 233b; 321a, 321b, 333a, 333b are hingedly connected to the end bridging straps 12a, 12b; 112a, 112b; 212a, 212b; 312a, 312b. keel panels 40a, 40b, 42a, 42b; 140a, 140b, 142a, 142b; 240a, 240b, 242a, 242b; 52b; 144a, 144b, 146a, 146b, 150a, 150b, 152a, 152b; 244a, 244b, 246a, 246b, 250a, 250b, 252a, 252b; 344a, 344b, 346a, 346b, 350a, 350b, 352a, 352b connection to adjacent side panels 18, 20; 118, 120; 218, 220; 318, 320. Strut panels 44a, 44b, 46a, 46b, 50a, 50b, 52a, 52b; 144a, 144b, 146a, 146b, 150a, 150b, 152a, 152b; 244a, 244b, 246a, 246b, 250a, 250b, 252a, 252b; 344a, 344b, 346a, 346b, 350a, 350b, 352a, 352b through broken lines 45a, 45b, 45c, 45d, 49a, 49b, 49c, 49d; 145a, 145b, 145c, 145d, 149a, 149b, 149c, 149d; 245a , 245b, 245c, 245d, 249a, 249b, 249c, 249d; 345a, 345b, 345c, 345d, 349a, 349b, 349c, 349d are hingedly connected to the joist panels 40a, 40b, 42a, 42b; 140a, 140b, 142a, 142b; 240a, 240b, 242a, 242b; 340a, 430b, 342a, 342b. from the fold lines 21a, 21b, 33a, 33b; 121a, 121b, 133a, 133b; 221a, 221b, 233a, 233b; or not collinear with the polyline.

The present disclosure provides a blank 310 and an article carrier 390 having rounded or beveled corners. The article carrier 390 includes end bridging straps 312a, 312b having corner or gusset panels 322a, 322b, 334a, 334b hingedly connected thereto by fold lines 321a, 321b, 333a, 333b. The article carrier 390 includes connector or web panels 324a, 324b, 336a, 336b hingedly connected to corner or gusset panels 322a, 322b, 334a, 334b by fold lines 323a, 323b, 335a, 335b. The connector or web panels 324a, 324b, 336a, 336b are hingedly connected to adjacent side straps 318; 320 by fold lines 317a, 317b, 319a, 319b. The corner or gusset panels 322a, 322b, 334a, 334b are secured (by hot melt glue G at the second, reverse or unfinished surface) to the adjacent side strips 318; 320.

The lower edge of the reinforcing strap 14, 16; 114, 116; 214, 216 may be contoured or indented to provide a non-linear or arcuate engagement edge for the carrying handle.

The lower edges of the end bridging straps 312a, 312b may be contoured or indented to provide a non-linear or arcuate engagement edge for carrying handles.

It will be appreciated that as used herein, directional references (such as "top", "bottom", "base", "front", "rear", "end", "side", "inner" , "outer", "upper" and "lower") do not necessarily constrain the respective panels to this orientation, but may serve only to distinguish the panels from each other.

As used herein, the terms "hinge connection" and "fold line" refer to a hinge feature that defines a blank, facilitates folding of portions of a blank relative to each other, or otherwise indicates optimal panel folding of a blank Various lines for positions. Any reference to "hinged connection" should not be interpreted as necessarily referring to only a single fold line; indeed, a hinged connection may be formed by two or more fold lines, wherein each of the two or more fold lines The shape of a line can be straight/linear or curved/curved. When linear fold lines form hinged connections, they may be positioned parallel to each other or slightly angled relative to each other. When curved fold lines form hinged connections, they may intersect each other to define shaped panels in the area enclosed by these curved fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may include a pair of arcuate or arcuate fold lines that intersect at two points such that they define an elliptical panel therebetween. The hinged connection may be formed by one or more linear fold lines and one or more curved fold lines. Typical examples of such hinged connections may include a combination of linear fold lines and arcuate or arcuate fold lines that 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 score line, a ridge line, a concave line, a row of perforations, a row of short slits, a row of half-cuts, a single half-cut, Interrupted cut lines, a line of aligned slits, a line of notches, and any combination of the above options.

It should be understood that the hinged connection and the fold line may each comprise an element formed in the base material of the blank, including a perforation, a row of perforations, a row of short slits, a row of half-cuts, a single half-cut, a cut line, an interrupted cut line, a slit. Seams, notches, ridges, dimples, any combination thereof, etc. These elements may be sized and arranged to provide the desired function. For example, a row of perforations may be sized or weakened to define fold lines and/or divide lines. The row of perforations can be designed to promote folding and resist breaking, to promote folding and break with more effort, or to promote break with little effort.

As used herein, the phrase "aligned with" refers to two or more elements in an erected carton (such as an aperture formed in the first of two stacked panels, and Alignment of the second aperture formed in the second of the two superimposed panels). Those elements that are aligned with each other may be aligned with each other in the thickness direction of the stacked panels. For example, when an aperture in a first panel "aligns" with a second aperture in a second panel (which is placed in an overlying arrangement with the first panel), the edge of the aperture may follow the edge of the second aperture. At least a portion of the edge extends and is alignable with the second aperture along the thickness of the first panel and the second panel.

Claims (39)

1. An article carrier for packaging one or more articles, the article carrier comprising at least a two-ply strap handle at one or both of its opposite ends, wherein the end bridging straps are hingedly connected along their respective upper edges to reinforcing straps which are secured at their opposite ends to side panels of the carrier.

2. The article carrier of claim 1, formed from a sheet of material including a first finished surface and a second reverse surface opposite the first surface, the second reverse surface of the end bridging strip being arranged to face the second reverse surface of the reinforcing strip.

3. The article carrier of claim 2, wherein the first finished surface of the end bridge strip is arranged to face inwardly toward an interior of the carrier.

4. The article carrier of claim 2, wherein the first finished surface of the reinforcing tape is arranged to face outwardly to provide an outer face of the carrier.

5. The article carrier of claim 1, comprising a main panel having an opening for receiving at least one article and at least one keel structure for separating a pair of adjacent articles.

6. The article carrier of claim 5, wherein the keel structure comprises: a pair of keel panels hingedly connected to each other by a keel fold line; a pair of stud panels hingedly connected to a respective one of the pair of keel panels; and a brace panel coupling a first one of the pair of strut panels to the other one of the pair of strut panels.

7. The article carrier of claim 6, wherein an aperture is struck in part from each of the pair of keel panels, the pair of leg panels, and the brace panels.

8. The article carrier of claim 2, wherein the reinforcing strip comprises a corner panel hingedly connected along a first fold line, and an end flap hingedly connected to the corner panel along a second fold line.

9. The article carrier of claim 8, wherein at least one of the end flaps and the corner panels are secured to adjacent side panels of the carrier.

10. The article carrier of claim 9, wherein the corner panel is secured to the adjacent side panel to form a bevel or rounded corner of the carrier.

11. The article carrier of claim 9, wherein the end flaps are secured to the adjacent side panels to form a bevel or rounded corner of the carrier.

12. The article carrier of claim 11, wherein glue is applied to the first finished surface of the end flap, and the first finished surface of the end flap is secured to the second reverse surface of the adjacent side panel.

13. The article carrier of claim 10, wherein glue is applied to the first finished surface of the corner panel and the first finished surface of the corner panel is secured to the second opposing surface of the adjacent side panel.

14. The article carrier of claim 9, wherein end portions of the adjacent side panels are secured to the corner panels to form the beveled or rounded corners of the carrier.

15. The article carrier of claim 14, wherein the end portion is at least partially defined by a third fold line.

16. The article carrier according to claim 9 wherein the end bridging strap is hingedly connected to the adjacent side panel by a gusset panel and a web panel, the corner panel being interposed between the gusset panel and the web panel so as to provide the at least two-ply handled three-ply portion.

17. The article carrier of claim 16, wherein the gusset panel is hingedly connected to the adjacent side panel by a fourth fold line, the fourth fold line and the first fold line defining an obtuse angle therebetween.

18. The article carrier of claim 1, wherein a lower edge of the reinforcing band is contoured to provide a non-linear engagement edge of a carrying handle.

19. The article carrier of claim 1, wherein a lower edge of the reinforcing band is recessed to provide an arcuate engagement edge of a carrying handle.

20. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a panel for forming at least a double-ply handle at one or both of the opposite ends of an erected carrier, opposite side panels, and an end bridging strip hingedly connected along its inner edge to a reinforcing strip secured at its opposite ends to the opposite side panels in the erected carrier.

21. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a main panel and an adjacent side panel, the main panel comprising end bridging straps and a keel structure comprising at least one keel panel, the blank comprising a gusset panel coupling the end bridging straps to the adjacent side panel, the gusset panel being hingedly connected to the end bridging straps by a fourth fold line, the keel panel being coupled to the adjacent side panel by a brace panel, the brace panel being hingedly connected to the keel panel by a fifth fold line, wherein the fourth fold line is offset from the fifth fold line.

22. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a main panel and an adjacent side panel, the main panel comprising end bridging straps and a keel structure, the keel structure comprising at least one keel panel, the blank comprising a gusset panel coupling the end bridging straps to the adjacent side panel, the gusset panel being hingedly connected to the end bridging straps by a fourth fold line, the keel panel being coupled to the adjacent side panel by a pillar panel, the pillar panel being hingedly connected to the keel panel by a fifth fold line, wherein the fourth fold line is non-collinear with the fifth fold line.

23. An article carrier for packaging one or more articles, the article carrier comprising a rounded or bevelled corner and comprising an end bridging strip comprising a corner panel hingedly connected thereto by a fourth fold line, wherein the article carrier further comprises a connector panel hingedly connected to the corner panel by a sixth fold line, the connector panel being hingedly connected to the adjacent side strip by a seventh fold line, wherein the corner panel is secured to the adjacent side strip.

24. The article carrier of claim 23, wherein the article carrier is formed from a sheet material including a first trimmed surface and a second reverse surface opposite the first surface, and wherein the second reverse surface of the corner panel is secured to the second reverse surface of the adjacent side strap.

25. The article carrier of claim 23, wherein a lower edge of the end bridge strap is contoured to provide an arcuate engagement edge of a carrying handle.

26. The article carrier of claim 23, wherein a lower edge of the end bridge strap is contoured to provide a non-linear engagement edge of a carrying handle.

27. A blank for forming an article carrier comprising rounded or bevelled corners, the blank comprising an end bridging strip comprising a corner panel hingedly connected thereto by a fourth fold line, wherein the blank comprises a connector panel hingedly connected to the corner panel by a sixth fold line, the connector panel being hingedly connected to an adjacent side strip by a seventh fold line, wherein the corner panel is securable to the adjacent side strip in an erected carrier.

28. A package comprising the article carrier of claim 23 and one or more articles held by the article carrier.

29. A package according to claim 28 wherein the adjacent side strap comprises a free edge to which no other part of the article carrier is attached.

30. The package of claim 28, wherein the adjacent side band comprises a free edge beyond which at least a portion of the one or more articles extends.

31. The package of claim 28 wherein the adjacent side strip is secured at its end portions to at least a portion of the corner panels by an adhesive.

32. A package comprising the article carrier of claim 1 and one or more articles held by the article carrier.

33. The package of claim 32, wherein the side panels each include a free edge to which no other portion of the article carrier is attached.

34. The package of claim 32, wherein one or more of the side panels comprises a free edge beyond which at least a portion of the one or more articles extends.

35. A package comprising an article carrier formed from the blank of claim 21 or 22 and one or more articles held by the article carrier.

36. The package of claim 35, wherein the adjacent side panel comprises a free edge to which no other portion of the article carrier is attached.

37. The package of claim 35, wherein the adjacent side panel comprises a free edge beyond which at least a portion of the one or more articles extends.

38. The package of claim 35, wherein the adjacent side panel is secured at its end portion to at least a portion of an outer end panel of the article carrier by an adhesive.

39. The package of any of claims 28, 32 or 35, wherein at least one of the one or more articles is bonded to the article carrier by an adhesive.

Images