CN117836218A - Packaging arrangement - Google Patents

Abstract

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to a packaging system, an apparatus (400; 500;600; 700) for forming a package, an article carrier (90; 190;390; 490) for packaging one or more articles, a blank (10; 110;310; 410A-B) for forming a carrier, and a method of packaging one or more articles. The carrier (90; 190;390; 490) comprises a main panel (12; 112;312; 412) having one or more article retention structures (RT 1, RT 2) for receiving a respective article (B) and securing the main panel (12; 112;312; 412) to the respective article (B). The carrier (90; 190;390; 490) comprises at least one panel having a peripheral edge, a portion of which provides at least one alignment edge shaped to inhibit movement in two orthogonal directions when engaged by a reference device (440; 540;640; 740) of the packaging device (400; 500;600; 700).

Description

Packaging arrangement

Cross Reference to Related Applications

The present application claims the benefit of priority from U.S. provisional patent application No. 63/213,420 filed on 22 th 6 and 2021, and U.S. provisional patent application No. 63/287,476 filed on 8 th 12 and 2021, the entire contents of both of which are incorporated herein by reference.

Technical Field

The invention relates to a packaging system, a packaging machine and an apparatus therefor, an article carrier and a blank for forming the same, and a method of packaging articles. More particularly, but not exclusively, the present invention relates to a top gripping type carrier having one or more apertures for receiving and retaining items therein, and methods and apparatus for forming the same.

Background

In the packaging field, 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 articles for consumption. For cost and environmental reasons, such cartons or carriers need to be formed from as little material as possible and with as little loss of material from which they are formed as possible. A further consideration is the strength of the carton and its suitability for holding and transporting heavy weight articles. It is desirable that the contents of the carton be stationary within the carton.

It is well known to provide top gripping article carriers in which apertures are formed in a panel of the carrier, with tabs punched from the panel and arranged around the apertures. When an article is received in the aperture, the tab moves out of the plane of the panel, wherein the tab engages the article generally about the flange or lip of the article.

It is desirable to automate the formation of packages from an article carrier by employing a packaging machine that can operate at high throughput. In particular, it is desirable to package articles as they pass through the packaging apparatus in a continuous motion in a downstream direction.

The present invention seeks to provide improvements in the field of packaging, cartons typically formed of paperboard or the like, and apparatus for assembling such cartons.

Disclosure of Invention

A first aspect of the invention provides an article-engaging carrier for packaging at least one article. The carrier includes a main panel having at least one article retention feature for engaging an article. The carrier comprises at least one panel having a peripheral edge, a portion of which provides at least one alignment edge shaped to inhibit movement in two orthogonal directions when engaged by a reference device of the packaging apparatus.

Optionally, the article carrier comprises a side panel hingedly connected to the main panel by a hinged connection.

Optionally, the at least one alignment edge is provided by a peripheral edge portion of the side panel.

Optionally, the at least one alignment edge comprises a front alignment edge and a rear alignment edge.

Optionally, the article carrier comprises a lid panel hingedly connected to the side panel by a hinged connection.

Optionally, the at least one alignment edge is provided by a peripheral edge portion of the cover panel.

Optionally, the at least one alignment edge comprises a front alignment edge and a rear alignment edge.

Optionally, the article carrier comprises a pair of opposed side panels, each side panel being hingedly connected to the main panel by a hinge connection and comprising at least one alignment edge.

Optionally, the at least one alignment edge comprises a front alignment edge and a rear alignment edge.

Optionally, the article carrier comprises: a pair of opposed side panels, each side panel being hingedly connected to the main panel by a hinge connection; a cover panel hingedly connected to each of the pair of opposing side panels and including at least one alignment edge.

Optionally, the at least one alignment edge comprises a front alignment edge and a rear alignment edge.

Optionally, the article carrier comprises a pair of opposed end panels, each end panel being hingedly connected to the main panel by a hinge connection.

Optionally, the panel having a peripheral edge portion providing at least one alignment edge is hingedly connected to the main panel by a hinge connection.

Optionally, the panel having a peripheral edge portion providing at least one alignment edge is hingedly connected to the main panel by at least one hinge panel.

Optionally, the at least one panel comprises a pair of panels, each panel having an alignment edge, a linear notional line passing through the alignment edge in each of the pair of panels passing through an opening in the main panel defined by the at least one article retaining structure.

Optionally, the main panel comprises at least one stabilizing device providing an opening in the main panel and configured to inhibit movement in two orthogonal directions.

A second aspect of the invention provides an apparatus for packaging one or more items in an item carrier. The apparatus includes an article engaging tool for engaging an article and transporting the article in a downstream direction. The article-engaging tool includes a reference device for aligning at least one blank with one or more articles.

Optionally, the apparatus comprises an overhead conveyor for conveying the at least one blank onto the one or more articles.

Optionally, the reference means comprises an abutment pin extending upwardly from the article engaging tool beyond the upper extremity of the one or more articles.

Optionally, the article-engaging tool comprises a removable head to which the reference device is mounted.

Optionally, the head comprises a part of a tool-less attachment system.

Optionally, the tool-less attachment system comprises a bayonet fitting.

Optionally, the apparatus comprises a plurality of article engaging means, each article engaging means for engaging a respective article, metering and grouping the articles, and conveying the articles in a downstream direction as at least one metering group.

Optionally, each of the plurality of article engaging tools is independently driven about an endless track having a working range and a return range.

Optionally, the plurality of article engaging tools includes at least one preceding article engaging tool and at least one following article engaging tool.

Optionally, the at least one preceding article-engaging tool is configured to engage a respective preceding aligned edge of the at least one blank.

Optionally, the at least one subsequent article engaging tool is configured to engage a respective subsequent aligned edge of the at least one blank.

Optionally, the abutment pin is shaped to provide at least two points of contact with the aligned edges of the at least one blank to inhibit movement of the at least one blank parallel to and transverse to the direction of flow of the at least one blank through the apparatus.

Optionally, the apparatus comprises an applicator for pressing the at least one blank onto the at least one group of articles, the applicator comprising a plurality of article receiving apertures, each article receiving aperture for receiving a respective article of the at least one group of articles formed by the apparatus.

Optionally, the applicator comprises at least one stabilizing peg receivable in an opening of a stabilizing device provided in the main panel of the at least one blank, the at least one stabilizing peg being configured to constrain movement of the at least one blank relative to the applicator.

Optionally, at least one stabilizing peg prevents or inhibits movement of the at least one blank relative to the at least one group of articles in a direction parallel to a flow direction of the at least one blank through the apparatus and in a transverse direction perpendicular relative to the flow direction of the at least one blank through the apparatus.

Optionally, the applicator is mounted to an overhead conveyor in the form of wheels such that the applicator applies the at least one blank to the group of articles as the group of articles is conveyed downstream by the plurality of article engaging tools.

Optionally, the applicator comprises one or more creasing machines for folding at least one panel hinged to the main panel at least partially around the at least one group of articles, the panel comprising at least one alignment edge configured to engage a reference device.

Optionally, the apparatus includes one or more static folding guides for folding one or more panels of the at least one blank when the applicator is engaged with the at least one blank.

A third aspect of the invention provides a method of packaging a plurality of articles, the method comprising:

conveying a stream of articles through a packaging apparatus in a downstream direction;

engaging each article with an article engaging tool;

grouping into at least one group of articles; at the same time

Applying at least one blank to an upper end of the article;

engaging at least one previously aligned edge of the at least one blank with a reference pin mounted to a previous article-engaging tool;

metering the at least one group of items; and

a reference pin mounted to the subsequent article engaging tool is engaged with at least one of the subsequent aligned edges of the at least one blank.

Optionally, the method further comprises:

the at least one blank is applied to the at least one set of articles to engage each article in a respective article retention device provided in the main panel of the at least one blank.

Optionally, applying the at least one blank to the at least one group of articles comprises:

The stabilizing pegs are inserted into openings of a stabilizing device provided in the main panel of the at least one blank prior to pressing the main panel onto the at least one set of articles.

Optionally, applying the at least one blank to the at least one group of articles may further comprise:

one or more panels are at least partially folded, the one or more panels coupled to the main panel and including at least one of a front aligned edge and a rear aligned edge.

Optionally, the one or more panels are folded prior to engaging the main panel with the at least one group of articles.

Optionally, the one or more panels are folded while engaging the main panel with the at least one group of articles.

Optionally, the one or more panels are folded after engaging the main panel with the at least one group of articles.

A fourth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank includes a main panel having at least one article retention feature for engaging an article. The blank comprises at least one panel having a peripheral edge. A portion of the peripheral edge provides at least one alignment edge shaped to inhibit movement in two orthogonal directions when engaged by a reference device of the packaging apparatus.

A fifth aspect of the invention provides an applicator device for separating a plurality of connected blanks into discrete blanks and pressing each blank onto two or more groups of articles, the applicator comprising: a plurality of article receiving apertures, each article receiving aperture for receiving a respective article; and a breaking device for breaking the frangible connection between adjacently disposed blanks.

Optionally, the applicator comprises at least one stabilizing peg receivable in an opening of a stabilizing device provided in the main panel of each blank, the at least one stabilizing peg being configured to constrain movement of the blank relative to the applicator.

Optionally, the at least one stabilizing peg is removably mounted to the plate in which the article receiving aperture is disposed.

Optionally, the at least one stabilizing peg is keyed to a given receiving location on the plate.

Optionally, the at least one stabilizing peg is keyed to a given receiving orientation relative to the plate.

Optionally, the applicator comprises a plate and at least one guide depending from the plate for holding the groups of articles in a predefined arrangement.

Optionally, the disconnect device includes one or more blades mounted to a plate having an article receiving aperture disposed therein.

Optionally, the one or more blades are detachably mounted to the plate.

Optionally, the one or more blades include at least one detent for engaging a catch (catch) located in a slot provided in the plate.

Optionally, the plate comprises one or more release openings for enabling release of the pawl from the clasp.

Optionally, the panel includes a plurality of blade receiving locations and a plurality of blades that can be reconfigured into a desired arrangement to accommodate a connected blank of a given configuration.

A sixth aspect of the invention provides a disconnect apparatus for separating a plurality of connected article carriers engaged with a plurality of groups of articles, the disconnect apparatus comprising: a plate having a plurality of article receiving apertures, each for receiving a respective article, and a plurality of blade receiving locations, each blade receiving location being capable of detachably mounting a disconnect blade for breaking frangible connections between adjacently disposed carriers; and a plurality of blades removably mounted to the plate, the plurality of blades being reconfigurable into a desired arrangement to accommodate a given configuration of connected carriers.

Alternatively, the plurality of blades may be mounted to the plate in a first arrangement to separate the connected carriers of a first configuration, and may be mounted to the plate in a second, different arrangement to separate the connected carriers of a second, different configuration.

A seventh aspect of the invention provides a plurality of connected blanks for forming a plurality of article carriers. Each blank is frangibly connected to at least one adjacent blank by a frangible connection comprising at least one pair of connection notches. Each blank comprises an engaging panel having at least one article retaining means for receiving and hanging articles therefrom. The first article retention device in the first blank and the second article retention device in the second blank define an imaginary line passing through a center of each of the first article retention device and the second article retention device. The imaginary line is perpendicular to the frangible connection between the first blank and the second blank. A pair of attachment notches are disposed on opposite sides of the imaginary line. The imaginary line defines the region of closest proximity between the first article retention device and the second article retention device.

An eighth aspect of the invention provides an apparatus for packaging one or more items in an item carrier. The apparatus includes an article engaging tool for engaging an article and transporting the article in a downstream direction. The article-engaging tool includes a reference device for aligning the plurality of connected blanks with two or more sets of articles.

Optionally, the apparatus comprises an applicator for separating the plurality of connected blanks into discrete blanks and pressing each blank onto two or more groups of articles, the applicator comprising: a plurality of article receiving apertures, each article receiving aperture for receiving a respective article; and a breaking device for breaking the frangible connection between adjacently disposed blanks.

Optionally, the applicator comprises at least one stabilizing peg receivable in an opening of a stabilizing device provided in the main panel of each blank, the at least one stabilizing peg being configured to constrain movement of the blank relative to the applicator.

Optionally, the at least one stabilizing peg prevents or inhibits movement of the blank relative to the set of articles in a direction parallel to the flow direction of the blank through the apparatus and in a transverse direction perpendicular relative to the flow direction of the blank through the apparatus.

Optionally, the applicator is mounted to an overhead conveyor in the form of wheels such that the applicator applies blanks to groups of articles as the groups are conveyed downstream by the plurality of article-engaging tools.

Optionally, the apparatus comprises an overhead conveyor for conveying the plurality of connected blanks onto the one or more articles.

Optionally, the reference means comprises an abutment pin extending upwardly from the article engaging tool beyond the upper extremity of the one or more articles.

Optionally, the article-engaging tool comprises a removable head to which the reference device is mounted.

Optionally, the apparatus comprises a plurality of article engaging means, each article engaging means for engaging a respective article, metering and grouping the articles, and conveying the articles as a metered group in a downstream direction.

Optionally, the plurality of article engaging tools includes at least one preceding article engaging tool and at least one following article engaging tool.

Optionally, the at least one preceding article engagement tool is configured to engage a respective preceding aligned edge of the plurality of connected blanks.

Optionally, the at least one subsequent article engaging tool is configured to engage a respective subsequent aligned edge of the plurality of connected blanks.

A ninth aspect of the invention provides a method of packaging a plurality of articles, the method comprising:

at least two groups of articles are formed,

applying a plurality of connected blanks to an upper end portion of the article;

engaging a reference pin with the plurality of connected blanks and aligning the plurality of connected blanks to an article;

Lowering the applicator relative to the article and the plurality of connected blanks to insert stabilizing pins in openings in each of the blanks;

further lowering the applicator to cleave the frangible connection between adjacently disposed blanks;

contacting the plate of the applicator with each of the discrete blanks;

the applicator is further lowered to press the discrete blank over the upper end of the article and move the engagement tab upwardly out of the plane of the blank until the tab engages the flange around the upper end of the article.

A tenth aspect of the present invention provides a method of packaging a plurality of articles, the method comprising:

conveying a stream of articles through a packaging apparatus in a downstream direction;

engaging each article with an article engaging tool;

grouping into groups of articles; at the same time as the process is carried out,

applying a plurality of connected blanks to an upper end portion of the article;

engaging at least one of the previously aligned edges of the blank with a reference pin mounted to a previous article-engaging tool;

metering the plurality of groups of articles; and

a reference pin mounted to a subsequent article engagement tool is engaged with at least one subsequent aligned edge of the plurality of connected blanks.

Optionally, the method further comprises:

Separating the plurality of connected blanks into discrete blanks and applying the discrete blanks to the plurality of groups of articles to engage each article in a respective article retention device disposed in the main panel of the blank.

Optionally, applying the blank to the plurality of sets of articles comprises:

the stabilization pegs are inserted into openings of a stabilization device provided in the main panel of each blank prior to separating the plurality of connected blanks into discrete blanks.

An eleventh aspect of the invention provides a plurality of connected blanks for forming a plurality of article carriers. Each blank is frangibly connected to at least one adjacent blank by a frangible connection. Each blank of the plurality of connected blanks includes a main panel having at least one article retaining structure for engaging an article. The plurality of connected blanks includes at least one panel having a peripheral edge. A portion of the peripheral edge provides at least one alignment edge shaped to inhibit movement in two orthogonal directions when engaged by a reference device of the packaging apparatus.

A twelfth aspect of the invention provides a separator device for separating a plurality of connected article carriers into discrete article carriers. The separator comprises a disconnection means for breaking a frangible connection between adjacently arranged article carriers.

Optionally, the separator comprises at least one stabilizing peg receivable in an opening of a stabilizing device provided in the main panel of each article carrier, the at least one stabilizing peg being configured to constrain movement of the article carrier relative to the separator.

Optionally, the separator comprises at least one guide for aligning the plurality of connected article carriers therewith.

Optionally, the separator comprises a pair of opposed guides for aligning the plurality of connected article carriers therewith, the plurality of connected article carriers receivable between the pair of opposed guides.

Optionally, the separator is mounted to the overhead conveyor and is continuously transferred downstream through the working range of the packaging machine in synchronization with the article carrier.

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

Within the scope of the present application, it is contemplated or intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternatives set forth in the preceding paragraphs, claims and/or the following description and drawings may be considered or employed separately or in any combination thereof.

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

The features or combinations of features of the embodiments disclosed herein can be extracted independently of the other features of the embodiments. Alternatively, the features or combinations of features of the embodiments may be omitted from this embodiment.

Drawings

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

fig. 1 is a top plan view of a blank for forming a carrier according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

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

FIG. 3 is a top plan view of a blank for forming a carrier according to various embodiments of the disclosure;

FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 3;

fig. 5A is a top plan view of a blank for forming a carrier according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

FIG. 5B is an enlarged plan view of a portion of the blank of FIG. 5A;

FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 5A;

fig. 7 is a top perspective view of a packaging apparatus forming part of a packaging system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 8 is an end view of the packaging apparatus of FIG. 7;

FIG. 9 is a plan view of the packaging apparatus of FIG. 7;

FIG. 10 is a bottom perspective view of the packaging apparatus of FIG. 7;

FIG. 11 is a top perspective view of a packaging apparatus forming part of a packaging system according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure;

fig. 12 is a top side view of a packaging apparatus forming part of a packaging system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 13 is a top plan view of a pair of connected blanks, each connected blank for forming a carrier, according to an embodiment of the disclosure;

fig. 14-17 illustrate stages of constructing the connected blank of fig. 13 into a carrier by an applicator device;

FIG. 18 illustrates a disconnect blade for use with an applicator device in accordance with various embodiments;

fig. 19 is a side view of a packaging apparatus forming part of a packaging system according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 20 is a top perspective view of a separation device forming part of a packaging system according to an alternative embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 21 is an end view of the separation device of FIG. 20;

FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of the separation device of FIG. 20;

FIG. 23 is a cut-away view of the separating apparatus of FIG. 20 in operative engagement with a plurality of groups of articles of packaging; and

fig. 24 is a side view of the packaging apparatus showing various stages of operation of the separating apparatus according to the embodiment of fig. 20.

Detailed Description

Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of packaging systems, apparatus, methods, packages, blanks, and carriers are disclosed herein. It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of ways in which certain aspects of the invention may be practiced and are not intended to 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 embodiments that are illustrated, samples, models, or patterns. Indeed, it will be understood that the packaging systems, apparatus, methods, 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 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 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 fig. 2) for containing and carrying a set of primary products, such as, but not limited to, bottles or cans (hereinafter referred to as articles B, as shown in fig. 2). Article B may be generally cylindrical; the article B may comprise a circular cross-sectional shape (at least around the engagement area with the carrier 90). The blank 10 forms a secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package. An alternative blank 110;310;410A-B are shown in fig. 3-6 and 13-17 for forming an alternative carton or carrier 190;390;490.

in the embodiments detailed herein, for the non-limiting purpose of illustrating various features of the present 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 can be applied to a variety of product containers, which may or may not be tapered and/or cylindrical. Exemplary containers include bottles (e.g., metal, glass, or plastic), cans (e.g., aluminum cans), tiners, bags, packaging boxes, and the like.

A blank 10;110;310;410A-B are formed from a suitable substrate sheet. It will be appreciated that as used herein, the term "suitable substrate" includes a wide variety of foldable sheet materials such as paperboard, corrugated board, 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 a carrier structure described in more detail below.

The packaging structures or cartons described herein may be formed from sheet materials (such as paperboard) that may be made from or coated with a variety of materials to increase their strength. An example of such a sheet material is tear resistant manufactured by WestRock CompanyAnd (3) paper board. 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. In general, one surface of a sheet material may have different characteristics than another 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. Alternatively, the inwardly facing surface of the sheet material may be provided with A coating, layer, treatment, or otherwise prepared to provide properties such as one or more of tear resistance, good adhesion, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties.

In the embodiment illustrated in fig. 1-12, the blank 10;110;310 are configured to form a carton or carrier 90 for packaging exemplary articles B of the exemplary arrangement; 190;390. in the illustrated embodiment, the arrangement is a 2 x 4 matrix or array (two rows of four items B are provided) and the items B are beverage cans. Alternatively, blank 10;110;310 can be configured to form carriers for packaging other types, numbers, and sizes of articles and/or for packaging articles in different arrangements or configurations.

In the embodiment illustrated in fig. 1-6, the blank 10;110;310 are configured to accommodate beverage cans of smooth or elongated design, which may be 330ml cans. The article B has substantially the same diameter over its entire height. Exemplary article B has a maximum diameter or transverse dimension (which may be about 2.25 inches or about 58mm in diameter). Article B comprises an upper portion or top closure having a diameter or transverse dimension (which may be about 2.125 inches or 54.8mm in diameter).

The neck may provide an outwardly projecting flange, that is, it may include an undercut for engagement with the carrier. The top closure may be attached to the side wall of article B to form a seam or "bead" that provides a flange. In some embodiments, the diameter variation between the top closure and the body of article B is less than 7mm, may be less than 5mm, and optionally less than 4mm.

As used herein, the term "smooth" or "elongated" refers to an article B that is in contact with the carrier 90;190;390 with little or no change in lateral dimension between the engaged top closure and the body of article B. The article B is of substantially uniform diameter or has substantially parallel sides.

Referring to fig. 1, a blank 10 is shown that includes a plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, including a main panel 12 for forming a top wall or joining panel of a carrier 90 (see fig. 2).

The blank 10 comprises a first end panel 14 hingedly connected to a first end of the main panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 13. The blank 10 comprises a second end panel 16 which is hingedly connected to a second side of the main panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 15.

The blank 10 comprises a first side panel 18 hingedly connected to a first side portion of the main panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 17. The blank 10 comprises a second side panel 20 which is hingedly connected to a second side of the main panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 19.

The main panel 12 includes at least one article retention feature RT1, RT2. In the illustrated embodiment, the main panel 12 includes a plurality of article retention structures RT1, RT2, in particular eight article retention structures RT1, RT2 arranged in a 4 x 2 matrix or array. The main panel 12 includes two columns of article retention structures RT1, RT2, each column including four article retention structures RT1, RT2. The main panel 12 includes four rows of article retention features RT1, RT2, each row including two article retention features RT1, RT2. Each of the article retention structures RT1, RT2 may include apertures A1, A2.

The blank 10 includes four first article retention features RT1. The first article retention feature RT1 is positioned adjacent an end of the main panel 12. The blank 10 includes four second article retention features RT2. The second article retention feature RT2 is located between a first pair of first article retention features RT1 disposed proximate to a first end of the main panel 12 and a second pair of first article retention features RT1 disposed proximate to a second end of the main panel 12. The second article retention feature RT2 is also referred to herein as an intermediate article retention feature RT2. The first article retention feature RT1 is also referred to herein as an end article retention feature RT1.

Each of the first article retention features RT1 is substantially similar in construction and will therefore be described in detail with reference to a first one of the first article retention features RT1 positioned adjacent a first end of the blank 10 as shown in fig. 1.

The first article retention structure RT1 comprises an article receiving opening defined in part by aperture A1.

The first article retention feature RT1 includes a plurality of engagement teeth 40a, 40b, 40c disposed about the aperture A1.

The plurality of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c are hinged to the main panel 12 by fold lines. The fold line may be defined by a plurality of cut lines 43, 45. The plurality of cut lines 43, 45 may define or approximate a square or rounded square.

The first article retention structure RT1 may comprise a plurality of first or full teeth 40a disposed about the aperture A1. Each of the plurality of first teeth 40a includes an engagement edge E1 opposite the hinge edge. The engagement edge E1 is defined by a linear portion of the cutting line defining the aperture A1. Each engagement edge E1 defines a portion of a polygon. The illustrated embodiment includes four first teeth 40a. Each tooth 46 includes a pair of side edges defined by cut lines 41 extending radially outwardly from respective vertices of the polygon. That is, starting from the respective vertex between a pair of adjacent linear portions of the cutting line defining the orifice A1. The cut lines 41 are divergently disposed relative to each other and define an angle therebetween, which may be about 22.5 °.

The first article retention feature RT1 may comprise a plurality of first circumferential cut lines 43. Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 43 is aligned with one of the radial cut lines 41 such that the one of the radial cut lines 41, or an imaginary extension thereof, bisects the respective one of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 43.

Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 43 is spaced apart from the one of the radial cut lines 41 bisecting it so as to define a connecting gap or bridge portion between a pair of adjacently disposed teeth 40a, 40b, 40 c. The shape of each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 43 may be linear.

The first article retention feature RT1 may comprise a plurality of second circumferential cut lines 45. Each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 45 is disposed between and spaced apart from a pair of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 43 so as to define a pair of connection notches or bridge portions between each tooth 40a, 40b, 40c and the main panel 12. The pair of connection notches or bridge portions provide a hinged or foldable connection between each tooth 40a, 40b, 40c and the main panel 12.

The shape of each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 45 may be linear. In alternative embodiments, each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 43 may be arcuate or curved. In alternative embodiments, each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 45 may be arcuate or curved.

In the illustrated embodiment, the radius of curvature of each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 45 is equal to the radius of curvature of each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 43, however, in other embodiments, the two may be different.

Optionally, the plurality of teeth 40a, 40b, 40C are interrupted by a first recess or cut-out C1. The first concave portion C1 is located on a first virtual line. A first imaginary line extends radially from the center of the aperture A1 and passes through the center of the first recess C1. A first imaginary line extends transversely along the blank 10. The first imaginary line may extend along the texture of the blank 10. The first imaginary line may be oriented parallel with respect to the texture direction.

Optionally, the plurality of teeth 40a, 40b, 40C are interrupted by a second recess or cut-out C2. The second concave portion C2 is located on a second imaginary line. A second imaginary line extends radially from the center of the aperture A1 and passes through the center of the second recess C2. A second imaginary line extends longitudinally along the blank 10. The second imaginary line may extend across the texture of the blank 10. The second imaginary line may be oriented perpendicularly with respect to the texture direction.

The first recess C1 is dimensioned so as to occupy a first arc defined by a first small sector. The first small fan is defined in part by a first fan imaginary line extending radially from the center of the aperture A1 and passing through the side edges of the first partial teeth 40b disposed adjacent the first side of the first recess C1 and by a second fan imaginary line extending radially from the center of the aperture A1 and passing through the side edges of the second partial teeth 40b disposed adjacent the opposite second side of the first recess C1.

The second recess C2 is dimensioned so as to occupy a second arc defined by a second small sector. The second small fan is defined in part by a third fan phantom line extending radially from the center of the aperture A1 and passing through the side edges of the third partial tooth 40b disposed adjacent the first side of the second recess C2 and by a fourth fan phantom line extending radially from the center of the aperture A1 and passing through the side edges of the fourth partial tooth 40b disposed adjacent the opposite second side of the second recess C2.

The first and third sector imaginary lines define a first toothed sector or arc therebetween. The second and fourth sector imaginary lines define a second toothed sector or arc therebetween.

The first article retention feature RT1 may comprise at least one tab 42, 44. The illustrated embodiment includes a pair of tabs 42, 44. The tabs 42, 44 are positioned orthogonally to each other about the perimeter of the opening. The tabs 42, 44 may engage articles received in the first article retention structure RT1, the tabs 42, 44 not supporting or bearing the load of the article B (or a portion thereof).

The tabs 42, 44 facilitate folding of the side panels 18, 20 and end panels 14, 16 and/or retention of the side panels 18, 20 and end panels 14, 16 in the folded condition.

Each of the first article retention structures RT1 may include at least one first tab 42 integral with one of the first end panel 14 and the second end panel 16. The first tab 42 is disposed opposite the second recess C2. The center of the first tab 42 is located on the second imaginary line.

Each of the first article retention structures RT1 may include at least one second tab 44 integral with one of the first side panel 18 and the second side panel 20. The second tab 44 is disposed opposite the first recess C1. The center of the second tab 44 is located on the first imaginary line.

The first tab 42 and the second tab 44 are at least partially defined by cut lines. The cut line is substantially 'U' -shaped. The cut line is asymmetric. The cutting line includes a base portion defining a portion of the aperture A1 and a pair of leg portions extending from the base portion. The first one of the leg portions is longer than the second one of the leg portions. The first leg portion may terminate in a 'J' or 'C' shaped cutout. The first leg portion is disposed in closer proximity to the corner of the main panel 12 than the second leg portion.

The first article retention structure RT1 may include second partial teeth 40c disposed on opposite sides of each of the first tab 42 and the second tab 44. The second partial tooth 40c is separated from one of the first tab 42 or the second tab 44 by one of the first or second leg portions of the 'U' -shaped cut line.

The first tab 42 and the second tab 44 are longer or taller in height than the engagement teeth 40a, 40b, 40c. The first tab 42 and the second tab 44 can be considered to extend into the aperture A1 in order to reduce the width or radius of the aperture A1.

The plurality of first circumferential cut lines 43 and the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 45 define openings having a non-circular shape. The opening may be square or truncated.

The full teeth 40a may have a constant radial height dimension over the arc or sector they define. The hinged connection of each full tooth 40a may define a portion of a circle or may define a portion of a square circle.

The partial teeth 40b, 40c may have a radial height dimension that varies across their width. The height of the partial teeth 40b, 40C, the distance between the hinged connection to the main panel 12 and the opposing free edge defined by the aperture A1 may decrease toward the recesses C1, C2 or tabs 42, 44.

The first article retention structure RT1 may include discrete sets of teeth 40a, 40b, 40C defined between a pair of recesses C1, C2, between a pair of tabs 42, 44, or between one of the recesses C1, C2 and one of the tabs 42, 44. Each set of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c may include a full tooth 40a and a pair of partial teeth 40b, 40c. The partial teeth 40b, 40c may be disposed on opposite sides of the full tooth 40a and separated from the full tooth 40a by a radial cut line 41. The first article retention structure RT1 may comprise at least one group, discrete two groups, or more groups having at least two, three, or more teeth 40a, 40b, 40c.

Each set of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c is hinged to the main panel 12 by a hinged connection that is non-circular in shape and may be defined by a portion of a square, truncated circle, flattened circle or rounded square. The shape may be or approximate a super-ellipse or an over-ellipse.

Each of the second article-holding structures RT2 is substantially similar in construction, and thus will be described in detail with reference to a first one of the second article-holding structures RT2 positioned adjacent to a first one of the first article-holding structures RT1 as shown in fig. 1.

The second article holding structure RT2 comprises an article receiving opening defined in part by the second aperture A2.

The second article holding structure RT2 includes a plurality of teeth 50a, 50b, 50c disposed about the second aperture A2.

The plurality of teeth 50a, 50b, 50c are hinged to the main panel 12 by fold lines. The fold line may be defined by a plurality of cut lines 53, 55. The plurality of cut lines 53, 55 may define or approximate a square circle.

The second aperture A2 may include a plurality of first or full teeth 50a disposed about the second aperture A2. Each of the plurality of first teeth 50a includes an engagement edge E2 opposite the hinge edge. The engagement edge E2 is defined by a linear portion of the cutting line defining the second aperture A2. Each engagement edge E2 defines a portion or a side of a polygon. The illustrated embodiment includes four first teeth 50a that together define a portion of a polygon. Each tooth 50a includes a pair of side edges defined by cut lines 51 extending radially outwardly from respective vertices of the polygon. That is, starting from the respective vertex between a pair of adjacent linear portions of the cutting line defining the second orifice A2. The cut lines 51 are divergently disposed relative to one another and define an angle therebetween, which may be about 22.5 °.

The second article holding structure RT2 may include a plurality of first circumferential cut lines 53. Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 53 is aligned with one of the radial cut lines 51 such that the one of the radial cut lines 41, or an imaginary extension thereof, bisects the respective one of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 53.

Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 53 is spaced apart from the one of the radial cut lines 41 bisecting it so as to define a connecting gap or bridge portion between a pair of adjacently disposed teeth 50a, 50b, 50 c. The connection notch or bridge portion is disposed proximate the base of the teeth 50a, 50b, 50 c.

The shape of each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 53 may be linear.

The second article holding structure RT2 may comprise a plurality of second circumferential cut lines 55. Each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 55 is disposed between and spaced apart from a pair of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 53 so as to define a pair of connection notches or bridge portions between each tooth 50a, 50b, 50c and the main panel 12. The pair of connection notches or bridge portions provide a hinged or foldable connection between each tooth 50a, 50b, 50c and the main panel 12.

The shape of each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 55 may be linear.

The plurality of teeth 50a, 50b, 50C are interrupted by a first recess or resection port C1, a second recess or resection port C2, and a third recess or resection port C3. The second and third recesses C2, C3 are each located on a second notional line extending longitudinally along the blank 10. A second imaginary line extends radially from the center of the second orifice A2 and passes through the center of each of the second and third recesses C2 and C3.

The first and second recesses C1, C2 are substantially similar in construction and arrangement to the first and second recesses C1, C2 of the first article retention structure RT 1. The third recess is substantially similar in construction and arrangement to the second recesses C1, C2, but opposite thereto.

The second concave portion C2 and the third concave portion C3 are diametrically opposed to each other.

The first recess C1 is oriented or disposed substantially orthogonal to the second and third recesses C2, C3.

The centers of the second concave portion C2 and the third concave portion C3 of the second article holding structure RT2 are collinear with the center of the second concave portion C2 of the first article holding structure RT 1.

The third recess C3 of the second article holding structure RT2 is arranged close to and oriented opposite to the second recess C2 of the first article holding structure RT 1.

Each of the first concave portions C1 of the second article holding structure RT2 is disposed close to and oriented opposite to the first concave portions C1 of the second article holding structure RT2 disposed adjacently.

Each of the first recesses C1 of the first article holding structures RT1 is disposed proximate to and oppositely oriented from the first recesses C1 of the adjacently disposed first article holding structures RT 1.

Second article retention feature RT2 may comprise at least one tab 54. The illustrated embodiment includes a single tab 54. Tab 54 may engage an article received in second article retention structure RT2, and tab 54 does not support or bear the load of article B (or a portion thereof).

Tab 54 facilitates folding of side panels 18, 20 and/or retention of side panels 18, 20 in the folded condition.

Each of the second article holding structures 2 includes a tab 54 integral with one of the first side panel 18 and the second side panel 20. Tab 54 is disposed opposite first recess C1. The center of tab 54 is located on a first imaginary line.

Tab 54 is at least partially defined by a cut line. The cut line is substantially 'U' -shaped. The cut line is symmetrical. The cutting line includes a base portion defining a portion of the aperture A2 and a pair of leg portions extending from the base portion. A first one of the leg portions is equal in length to a second one of the leg portions.

Second article retention feature RT2 may include second partial teeth 50c disposed on opposite sides of tab 54. The second partial tooth 50c is separated from the tab 54 by one of the first or second leg portions of the 'U' -shaped cut line.

Tab 54 is longer or higher in height than engagement teeth 50a, 50b, 50c. Tab 54 can be considered to extend into aperture A2 in order to reduce the width or radius of aperture A2.

The plurality of first circumferential cut lines 53 and the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 55 define openings having a non-circular shape. The opening may be square or truncated.

The full teeth 50a may have a constant radial height dimension over the arc or sector they define. The hinged connection of each full tooth 50a may define a portion of a circle.

The partial teeth 50b, 50c may have a radial height dimension that varies across their width. The height of the partial teeth 50b, 50C, the distance between the hinged connection to the main panel 12 and the opposite free edge defined by the aperture A2 may decrease toward the recesses C1, C2, C3 or tab 54.

The second article retention feature RT2 may include discrete sets of teeth 50a, 50b, 50C defined between a pair of recesses C1, C2, C3 or between one of the recesses C1, C2, C3 and the tab 44. Each set of teeth 50a, 50b, 50c may include a full tooth 50a and a pair of partial teeth 50b, 50c. The partial teeth 50b, 50c may be disposed on opposite sides of the full tooth 50a and separated therefrom by radial cut lines 51. The second article holding structure RT2 may comprise at least one group, discrete two groups or more groups of at least two, three or more teeth 50a, 50b, 50c.

Each set of teeth 50a, 50b, 50c is hinged to the main panel 12 by a hinged connection that is non-circular in shape and may be defined by a portion of a square, truncated circle, flattened circle or rounded square. The shape may be or approximate a super-ellipse or an over-ellipse.

The fold line 13 that articulates the first end panel 14 to the main panel 12 is non-linear and may be curvilinear or arcuate. The fold line 13, which articulates the first end panel 14 to the main panel 12, extends substantially between a pair of adjacently disposed first article retention structures RT 1. The fold line 13 defines a convex hinge portion when seen from an external view.

The fold line 15 that articulates the second end panel 16 to the main panel 12 is non-linear and may be curvilinear or arcuate. The fold line 15, which articulates the second end panel 16 to the main panel 12, extends substantially between a pair of adjacently disposed first article retention structures RT 1. The fold line 15 defines a convex hinge portion when seen from an external perspective.

The fold line 17 that articulates the first side panel 18 to the main panel 12 is non-linear and may be curvilinear or arcuate. The fold line 17 hinging the first side panel 18 to the main panel 12 comprises a plurality of curved portions extending substantially between pairs of adjacently disposed article retaining structures RT1, RT 2. Fold line 17 defines a plurality of convex hinge portions when viewed from an exterior perspective.

The fold line 19 that articulates the second side panel 20 to the main panel 12 is non-linear and may be curvilinear or arcuate. The fold line 19 that articulates the second side panel 20 to the main panel 12 includes a plurality of curvilinear portions that extend substantially between pairs of adjacently disposed article retention structures RT1, RT 2. The fold line 19 defines a plurality of convex hinge portions when viewed from an exterior perspective.

Each curved hinge portion extends substantially between a pair of tabs 42, 44.

Each curved fold line 13, 15, 17, 19 faces a set of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c; the curvilinear articulation connection between 50a, 50b, 50c is curved and terminates at or in close proximity to the curvilinear articulation connection.

Each curved fold line 13, 15, 17, 19 and/or a set of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c; the curvilinear hinged connection between 50a, 50b, 50c terminates at or in close proximity to the end of the cut line defining the tab 42, 44.

In the embodiment illustrated in fig. 1, the fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 are defined by a plurality of spaced cut lines. A plurality of sets of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c; the curvilinear hinge connection between 50a, 50b, 50c and main panel 12 is defined by a plurality of spaced apart circumferential cut lines 43, 45, 53, 55. An imaginary extension defining the endmost or terminal cut line of the fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 and defining sets of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c; the imaginary extensions of the extreme ends or terminal cut lines of the curvilinear articulation connection between 50a, 50b, 50c and the main panel 12 intersect or converge; in the illustrated embodiment, this is provided by one of the second circumferential cut lines 45, 55.

Each curved fold line 13, 15, 17, 19 and a set of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c; the respective curvilinear hinge connections between 50a, 50b, 50c converge at or in close proximity to the tabs 42, 44 and may converge at the ends of the cut lines defining the tabs 42, 44.

This may provide the following benefits: directing load forces or stresses onto the sidewalls of article B so as to increase the structural integrity or rigidity of carrier 90; and may be particularly advantageous for impact forces directed at the ends or sides of the carrier 90.

The curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 may create tension or bias in the side or end walls 14, 16, 18, 20. This may increase the impact resistance of the side or end walls 14, 16, 18, 20.

The curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 may create tension or bias in the side or end walls 14, 16, 18, 20, which may have the effect of: an over-center or toggle mechanism is created, creating a bistable-two stable states or two stable positions: a folded stable position and an unfolded stable position. This may facilitate retention of the side or end walls 14, 16, 18, 20 relative to the main panel 12 in a folded condition to supplement or replace the tabs 42, 44. In this way, the need for adhesives or other such fastening means may be eliminated.

The fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 are non-linear such that at least one end portion thereof is bent around one of the article holding structures RT1, RT2 towards an adjacent annular fold line, wherein the annular fold line is defined by the plurality of circumferential cut lines 43, 45, 53, 55.

The fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 are non-linear such that at least one end portion thereof is curved towards the adjacent engagement tooth 40 c.

The fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 are non-linear such that at least one end portion thereof is curved towards an adjacent article receiving opening or aperture A1, A2.

The fold lines 17, 19 are curved such that a first distance d1 between the terminal ends of the fold lines 17, 19 and a second imaginary line Y-Y oriented longitudinally along the blank 10 and passing through the center of the receiving aperture A1, A2 is less than a second distance d2, wherein the second distance d2 is the maximum distance between the line Y-Y and the respective fold line 17, 19. It will be appreciated that the fold lines 13, 15 are similarly arranged relative to a first notional line X-X oriented transversely along the blank 10 and passing through the centre of the receiving aperture A1.

The first end panel 14 is hingedly connected to the main panel 12 at a first end and a second end by a first section and a second section of a hinged connection in the form of a pair of fold lines 13a, 13 b. The fold lines 13a, 13b are divergently arranged with respect to each other.

The first side panel 18 is hingedly connected to the main panel 12 at first and second ends by first and second sections of a hinged connection in the form of a pair of fold lines 17a, 17 b. The fold lines 17a, 17b are divergently arranged relative to each other.

The first end of the first end panel 14 and the first end of the first side panel 18 are hinged about the first corner 12a of the main panel 12. The first section 13a of the fold line 13 and the first section 17a of the fold line 17 are arranged convergently with respect to each other and are arranged tiltably. The first section 13a of the fold line 13 and the first section 17a of the fold line 17 at least partially define a substantially triangular corner portion of the main panel 12 adjacent to the first article retention structure RT 1.

The second end panel 16 is hingedly connected to the main panel 12 at first and second ends by first and second sections of a hinged connection in the form of a pair of fold lines 15a, 15 b. The fold lines 15a, 15b are divergently arranged with respect to each other.

The second side panel 20 is hingedly connected to the main panel 12 at a first end and a second end by a first section and a second section of a hinged connection in the form of a pair of fold lines 19a, 19 b. The fold lines 19a, 19b are divergently arranged relative to each other.

The main panel 12 comprises four corner regions 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d, each at least partially formed by a fold line section 13a, 17a arranged obliquely; 13b, 19a;15a, 17b;15b, 19 b.

The blank 10 may include a handle structure H.

The handle structure H includes a handle opening or finger opening disposed on a longitudinal axis bisecting the main panel 12.

The handle opening is disposed between a set of four article holding structures RT1, RT 2. The set of four article retention features RT1, RT2 is disposed in the middle of the main panel 12. The handle opening is disposed between the second row intermediate article holding arrangement RT2 and the third row intermediate article holding arrangement RT 2. The handle opening is located at the center of the second set of four article retention features RT 2.

The handle opening is at least partially located between the first column of article retention features RT1, RT2 and the second column of article retention features RT1, RT 2.

The handle opening is defined by a plurality of tabs 60, 62. The handle opening includes four tabs 60, 62. Each tab 60, 62 is hinged to the main panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. An arcuate or curvilinear cut line may be provided between each fold line to define a corner or vertex of the handle opening. The handle opening is substantially diamond or diamond-shaped, in other embodiments other shapes may be employed, such as, but not limited to, square. The handle opening includes a pair of primary tabs 60 and a pair of secondary tabs 62.

The pair of main tabs 60 are separated from each other by a first cut or severable line. The pair of secondary tabs 62 are separated from each other by a first cut or severable line.

The pair of primary tabs 60 are separated from the pair of secondary tabs 62 by a secondary cut or severable line.

The first cut line is collinear with an imaginary line passing transversely through the center of the set of four intermediate article retention structures RT 2.

The first cut line may be linear in shape and may extend between a first pair of opposing vertices of the handle opening.

The shape of the second cut line may be non-linear and may extend between a second pair of opposing vertices of the handle opening. The second cutting line intersects the first cutting line, the second cutting line comprising a "V" or "U" shaped intermediate portion; the apex of the "V" or "U" shaped portion intersects the first cut line.

One of the pair of primary tabs 60 is hinged to the main panel 12 by a first fold line. The other of the pair of primary tabs 60 is hinged to the main panel 12 by a second fold line. The first fold line is divergently disposed with respect to the second fold line.

One of the pair of secondary tabs 62 is hinged to the main panel 12 by a third fold line. The other of the pair of secondary tabs 62 is hinged to the main panel 12 by a fourth fold line. The third fold line is divergently disposed with respect to the fourth fold line.

The first fold line is divergently disposed with respect to the third fold line. The second fold line is divergently disposed with respect to the fourth fold line.

Each of the pair of primary tabs 60 may include a fold line extending thereacross. The fold line may be substantially parallel to the fold line that articulates the respective one of the pair of primary tabs 60 to the main panel 12. The fold line may extend between a first cut line or severable line and a second cut line or severable line. The fold line across the pair of primary tabs 60 may define a "V" shaped fold disposed opposite the "V" or "U" shaped intermediate portion of the second cut line.

The blank 10 may include one, two or more alignment or registration devices W1, W2. Each of the alignment devices W1, W2 takes the form of a cut-out or recess that defines an alignment edge of the blank 10 for receiving or engaging a reference pin (discussed in more detail below). The blank 10 includes a pair of first alignment devices W1, each defining a downstream or forward alignment edge. The blank 10 may also include a pair of alignment devices W2, each defining an upstream or trailing alignment edge. Each of the cut-outs or recesses defining the alignment devices W1, W2 is punched from one of the first side panel 18 and the second side panel 20.

The alignment devices W1, W2 are arranged so as to be offset from the end edges of the main panel 12-concave. The end edges of the main panel 12 are defined by fold lines 13, 13a, 13b, 15a, 15 b. Recessing the alignment devices W1, W2 is advantageous because it allows for a more compact tool carrying the reference pins, which do not extend beyond the footprint of the group of articles in the upstream or downstream direction. An imaginary line N1 passing through the alignment edges of the pair of first alignment devices W1 passes through the openings and/or apertures A1 of the first pair of first article retention features RT 1. An imaginary line N2 passing through the aligned edges of the pair of second alignment devices W2 passes through the openings and/or apertures A1 of the second pair of first article retention features RT 1.

The blank 10 may include at least one stabilization device M. In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 10 includes two stabilization devices M. The stabilizing means takes the form of an opening punched from the blank 10. The first stabilization device M is disposed between a first set of four article holding features RT1, RT2 positioned proximate to the first or front end edge of the blank 10 and may be centrally disposed between the set of article holding features RT1, RT 2. The second stabilization device M is disposed between a second set of four article holding features RT1, RT2 positioned proximate to the second or rear end edge of the blank 10 and may be centrally disposed between the set of article holding features RT1, RT 2. The stabilization device M is configured to receive an abutment peg or jaw (dog) (described in further detail below).

The shape of the opening of the stabilization device M may be non-circular and may be substantially square or diamond-shaped. The opening may be defined by at least one tab 94 stamped from and hingedly connected to the main panel 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the opening is defined by a pair of tabs, each tab stamped from the main panel 12 and hingedly connected to the main panel 12 in opposed relation to each other. The pair of tabs 94 may be separated from each other by a cut or severable line 95.

In some embodiments, the stabilization device M may be arranged to provide an additional handle opening. In the embodiment of fig. 1, the size of the stabilization device M is typically too small to accept a finger or a portion of a user's finger. This may be advantageous because a greater amount of substrate material is provided in the main panel 12 between the stabilizing device M and the openings of the article holding structures RT1, RT2, thereby improving the robustness and integrity of the article carrier 90.

In other embodiments, the handle opening may be configured to act as a stabilization device. A peg or pawl may be provided for engaging the blank 10 via the handle opening to prevent or inhibit linear or rotational movement of the blank 10 relative to the pawl. The jaws may be mounted to or integral with an applicator device (described in more detail below) for applying the blank 10 to a group of articles B.

The handle opening or the opening of the stabilizing means may comprise at least one flat or linear portion for engaging a complementary flat or linear portion of the jaws. In other embodiments, the stabilization device or handle opening may include at least one generally "V" or "U" shaped portion for engaging the complementary portion of the pawl.

The blank 10 is assembled around a group of articles B. The main panel 12 of the blank 10 is applied to the group of articles B. The main panel 12 is lowered relative to the article B. Each of the holding structures RT1, RT2 receives one of the articles B.

The blank 10 is folded about fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 about the sides and ends of the article groups so that the side and end panels are in face-to-face relationship with the sides and ends of the article groups.

The tabs 42, 44 are folded around the side walls of the respective article B. The tabs 42, 44 remain substantially coplanar with the side panels 18, 20 or end panels 14, 16 from which they extend. The inner faces of the tabs 43, 44 abut the side walls, edges or flanges of the article B.

Fig. 2 shows the assembled carrier 90 with the tabs 42, 44 abutting the side walls of article B to facilitate the side panels 18, 20 and end panels 14, 16 entering a folded condition.

The corner regions 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d of the main panel 12 adopt a non-coplanar arrangement with the main panel 12. Due to the pair of fold lines 13a/17a;13b/19a;15a/17b;15b/19b, the corner regions 12a, 12b, 12c, 12d slope upwardly as they extend outwardly. This may be beneficial to impart additional strength or rigidity to the carrier 90 and reduce the likelihood of deformation when the carrier 90 is wrapped in a sheet or film material, such as, but not limited to, a heat-seal plastic film package or shrink wrap.

In the assembled carrier 90, each of the curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 and an adjacent set of teeth 40a, 40b, 40c; the curvilinear hinge connection between 50a, 50b, 50c and main panel 12 is coupled or joined. The curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 and the curvilinear hinge connections may define or form converging folds or creases in the substrate forming the carrier 90. In other embodiments, each of the curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 may be coupled or joined to an adjacent curved hinge connection by a third fold or crease. The curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 and the curved hinge connection meet or join in a position disposed in close proximity to the article B.

In some embodiments, the curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 have the following effect: the side walls 18, 20 and/or end walls 14, 16 are encouraged to flex outwardly in the region between a pair of adjacent articles B-being convex when viewed from an externally vantage point.

In some embodiments, the curved fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19 have the following effect: the main panel 12 is encouraged to bend downwardly in the region between a pair of adjacent articles B-concave when viewed from an external vantage point above the main panel 112. In such embodiments, the side walls 18, 20 and/or the end walls 14, 16 may be substantially planar.

Referring now to fig. 3 and 4, alternative blanks for use in the packaging system of the present disclosure are shown. In the illustrated embodiment, like numerals have been used to denote like parts where possible, except that the prefix "100" has been added to indicate that these features belong to the second embodiment. The alternative embodiment shares many common features with the embodiments of fig. 1 and 2, and thus only differences from the embodiments illustrated in fig. 1 and 2 will be described in more detail.

Fig. 3 shows a blank 110 comprising a plurality of panels 112, 114A, 214B, 116A, 116B, 118, 120, including a main panel 112 for forming a top wall or joining panel of a carrier 190 (see fig. 4).

The main panel 112 includes at least one article retention feature RT1, RT2. The main panel 112 comprises a plurality of article holding structures RT1, RT2, in particular eight article holding structures RT1, RT2 arranged in a2 x 4 matrix or array. Each of the article retention structures RT1, RT2 includes an opening or aperture A1, A2

The article retention features RT1, RT2 of fig. 3 are substantially similar to the article retention features of fig. 1, except that the tabs 142, 144, 154 are smaller in height dimension relative to the teeth 140 than the tabs 42, 44, 54 of fig. 1.

The first side panel 118 is hingedly connected to a first side of the main panel 112 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 117.

The second side panel 120 is hingedly connected to the second side of the main panel 112 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 119.

The blank 110 comprises a first end structure. The first end structure includes a first upper end panel 114A that is hingedly connected to a first end of the main panel 112 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 113A. The first lower end panel 114B is hingedly connected to the first upper end panel 114A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 113B.

The first end structure includes a first corner panel 160A that is hingedly connected to a first end of the first side panel 118 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 161A. The second corner panel 160B is hingedly connected to the first end of the second side panel 120 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 161B.

The first end structure includes a first fixed panel 164A that is hingedly connected to a first corner panel 160A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 163A. The second fixed panel 164B is hingedly connected to the second corner panel 160B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 163B.

The first web panel 168A is hingedly connected at one end to the first fixed panel 164A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 169A and at a second end to the first upper end panel 114A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 171A.

The second web panel 168B is hingedly connected at one end to the second fixed panel 164B by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 169B and at a second end to the first upper end panel 114A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 171B.

The blank 110 comprises a second end structure. The second end structure includes a second upper end panel 116A that is hingedly connected to a second end of the main panel 112 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 115A. The second lower end panel 116B is hingedly connected to the second upper end panel 116A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 115B.

The second end structure includes a third corner panel 162A that is hingedly connected to the second end of the first side panel 118 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 165A. The fourth corner panel 162B is hingedly connected to the second end of the second side panel 120 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 165B.

The second end structure includes a third fixed panel 166A hingedly connected to the third corner panel 162A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 167A. The fourth stationary panel 166B is hingedly connected to the fourth corner panel 162B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 167B.

The third web panel 170A is hingedly connected at one end to the third fixed panel 166A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 173A and at a second end to the second upper end panel 116A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 175A.

The fourth web panel 170B is hingedly connected at one end to the fourth fixed panel 166B by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 173B and at a second end to the second upper end panel 116A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 175B.

It will be appreciated that the first side panel 118, the first corner panel 160A, the first securing panel 164A, the third corner panel 162A, and the third securing panel 166A form a first strap 164A/160A/118/162A/166A along a first side of the main panel 112. The second side panel 120, the second corner panel 160B, the second securing panel 164B, the fourth corner panel 162B, and the fourth securing panel 166B form a second strap 164B/160B/120/162B/166B along a second side of the main panel 112.

The blank 110 includes a first flap 172 that is hingedly connected to the first lower end panel 114B by a hinge connection. The hinged connection is at least partially defined by a cut line V1. The cut line V1 defines a tab P1 extending from the outer or lower edge of the first lower end panel 114B. The cutting line V1 forms a receptacle for receiving a locking tab or pawl C1 in the form of an opening, slot or slit. Each of the first and second securing panels 164A, 164B includes a locking tab or detent C1 extending from a lower edge thereof.

The first flap 172 can include a pair of wing portions 174A, 174B hingedly connected to a central portion of the first flap 172 by respective fold lines 177A, 177B. The fold lines 177A, 177B may be divergently arranged relative to each other, the fold lines 177A, 177B diverging toward the first lower end panel 114B.

Each of the first and second fixed panels 164A, 164B includes a cutout in the form of an aperture A5. Each aperture A5 forms a second receptacle for receiving a respective second locking tab or pawl C2. The first upper end panel 114A includes a pair of cut lines 101, each of which is substantially "U" shaped, each cut line 101 defining a respective detent C2.

The blank 110 includes a second flap 176 that is hingedly connected to the second lower end panel 116B by a hinged connection. The hinged connection is at least partially defined by a cut line V2. The cut line V2 defines a second tab P2 extending from the outer or lower edge of the second lower end panel 116B. The cutting line V2 forms a receptacle for receiving a locking tab or pawl C2 in the form of an opening, slot or slit. Each of the third and fourth securing panels 166A, 166B includes a locking tab or detent C2 extending from a lower edge thereof.

The second flap 176 can include a pair of wing portions 178A, 178B that are hingedly connected to a central portion of the second flap 176 by respective fold lines 178A, 178B. The fold lines 179A, 179B may be divergently disposed relative to each other, with the fold lines 179A, 179B diverging toward the second lower end panel 116B.

Each of the third and fourth securing panels 166A, 166B includes a cutout in the form of aperture A5. Each aperture A5 forms a second receptacle for receiving a respective second locking tab or pawl C2. The second upper end panel 116A includes a pair of cut lines 101, each of which is substantially "U" shaped, each cut line 101 defining a respective detent C2.

These end structures are folded to secure the first side panel 118 and the second side panel 120 around the sides of a group of articles B. The blank 110 can be applied to the group of articles B in a flat form and folded around it.

The main panel 112 is lowered relative to a group of articles B. The first side panel 118 and the second side panel 120 are folded about opposite sides of the group of articles B. Corner panels 160A, 160B, 162A, 162B are folded around the corners of the group of articles B, and securing panels 164A, 164B, 166A, 166B are folded around the ends of the group of articles B.

The first upper end panel 114A and the second upper end panel 116A are folded downwardly about the respective ends of the group of articles B. The first and second lower end panels 114B, 116B are folded upwardly relative to the first and second upper end panels 114A, 116A so that the pawl C2 can be inserted into the aperture A5. The first and second lower end panels 114B, 116B are folded downwardly to return to a substantially coplanar relationship with a respective one of the first and second upper end panels 114A, 116A to which they are hinged.

The first flap 172 and the second tab 176 are folded inwardly, folding the wing portions 174A, 174B, 176A, 176B relative to the central portion so as to pass through the side wall of the adjacently disposed article B, as shown in fig. 8.

The blank 110 may comprise at least one, and may comprise at least two, alignment or registration devices W1, W2. Each of the alignment devices W1, W2 takes the form of a cut-out or recess, thereby defining an aligned edge of the blank 110 for receiving or engaging a reference pin (discussed in more detail below). The blank 110 includes a pair of first alignment devices W1, each defining a downstream or forward alignment edge. The blank 110 may also include a pair of alignment devices W2, each defining an upstream or trailing alignment edge. Each of the cut-outs or recesses defining the alignment devices W1, W2 is punched from one of the first side panel 118 and the second side panel 120.

The blank 110 may include at least one stabilization device M. In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 110 includes two stabilization devices M. The stabilizing means takes the form of an opening punched from the blank 110. The first stabilization device M is disposed between a first set of four article holding features RT1, RT2 positioned proximate to a first or front end edge of the blank 110 and may be centrally disposed between the set of article holding features RT1, RT 2. The second stabilization device M is disposed between a second or rear set of four article holding features RT1, RT2 positioned proximate to the second or rear end edge of the blank 110 and may be centrally disposed between the set of article holding features RT1, RT 2. The stabilization device M is configured to receive an abutment peg or jaw (described in further detail below).

The shape of the opening of the stabilization device M may be non-circular and may be substantially square or diamond-shaped. The opening may be defined by at least one tab 194 punched from and hingedly connected to the main panel 112. In the illustrated embodiment, the opening is defined by a pair of tabs, each tab stamped from the main panel 112 and hingedly connected to the main panel 112 in opposed relation to each other. The pair of tabs 194 may be separated from each other by a cut line or severable line 195.

In some embodiments, the stabilization device M may be arranged to provide an additional handle opening. In the embodiment of fig. 3, the size of the stabilization device M is typically too small to accept a finger or a portion of a user's finger. This may be advantageous because a greater amount of substrate material is provided in the main panel 112 between the stabilizing device M and the openings of the article holding structures RT1, RT2, thereby improving the robustness and integrity of the article carrier 190.

Referring now to fig. 5A, 5B and 6, alternative blanks for use in the packaging system of the present disclosure are shown. In the illustrated embodiment, like numerals have been used to denote like parts where possible, except that the prefix "300" has been added to indicate that these features belong to the third embodiment. The alternative embodiment shares many common features with the embodiments of fig. 1-4, so only differences from the embodiments illustrated in fig. 1-4 will be described in more detail.

Referring to fig. 5A, a blank 310 is shown that includes a plurality of panels 312, 314, 316, 318, 320, including a main panel 312 for forming a lower wall or engagement panel of a carrier 390 (see fig. 6).

The first side panel 314 is hingedly connected to a first side of the main panel 312 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 313. The first top or cover panel 318 is hingedly connected to the first side panel 314 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 317.

The second side panel 316 is hingedly connected to a second side of the main panel 312 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 315. The second top or lid panel 320 is hingedly connected to the second side panel 316 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 319.

The main panel 312 of the blank 310 includes at least one article retention feature RT1, RT2. The main panel 312 includes a plurality of article retention structures RT1, RT2, specifically eight article retention structures RT1, RT2 arranged in a2 x 4 matrix or array. Each of the article retention structures RT1, RT2 includes an opening or aperture A1, A2. The article retention structures RT1, RT2 are substantially similar to the article retention structures shown in fig. 3 and 4 and will not be described in further detail.

The main panel 312 includes a handle structure. The handle structure may include at least one handle opening A3. In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 310 includes three handle openings A3. Each handle opening A3 is defined in or punched from a region of the main panel 312 centrally disposed between four apertures A1, A2 (which are arranged as two adjacent pairs of apertures A1, A2).

The first top panel 318 and the second top panel 320 are arranged in at least partially overlapping relation to each other. The overlapping portions of the first top panel 318 and the second top panel 320 are provided with a locking structure for locking the first top panel 318 and the second top panel 320. The locking structure cooperates with the handle opening in the main panel 312 to secure the first top panel 318 and the second top panel 320 to the main panel 312.

The locking structure includes at least one receiver RC in the form of an opening in the first top panel 318. The first top panel 318 includes a plurality of openings, more specifically three openings, although in other embodiments one, two, or more than three openings may be provided. Each of these openings is arranged in vertical alignment or registration with a handle opening A3 provided in the main panel 312. These openings may be defined by at least one tab 392, 394, 396 (also referred to herein as a female tab or receiver tab). In the illustrated embodiment, these openings are defined by three tabs 392, 394, 396. The openings may be substantially square or diamond shaped. In the illustrated embodiment, the corners of the opening are rounded or filleted. The first tab 396 is hinged to the first top panel 318 by a first hinged connection in the form of a first fold line 391. The second tab 392 is hinged to the first top panel 318 by a second hinged connection in the form of a second fold line 393. The second tab 392 is hinged to the first top panel 318 opposite the first tab 396. The first tab 396 is separated from the second tab 392, in part, by a first split or cut line 397 and in part by a third tab 394. The third tab 394 is defined by a second cut line or cut line 399. The second cut line 399 is substantially 'U' -shaped. The third tab 394 is hinged to the first top panel 318 by a third hinged connection in the form of a third fold line 395. The third hinge connection is disposed adjacent to and may be substantially orthogonal to the first and/or second hinge connection. The third tab 394 defines a cut-out or recess in each of the first tab 396 and the second tab 392. The cut-out or recess is punched from the free end edges opposite the first and second hinge connection, respectively.

The locking structure comprises at least one locking element L for being received in the receiver RC. The locking element L comprises a tab 380 stamped from the second top panel 320, the illustrated embodiment comprising three tabs 380, each tab being arranged to be engageable with one of the receiver openings and a respective one of the handle openings A3. Each tab 380 is hinged to the second top panel 320 by a hinged connection 381. Each tab 380 may include at least one fold line. In the illustrated embodiment, the tab 380 includes a pair of fold lines. The pair of fold lines may be divergently disposed with respect to each other. The shape of each of the pair of polylines may be non-linear, such as, but not limited to, arcuate or curvilinear in shape.

The non-linear fold line may facilitate restoration of the tab 380 to a planar arrangement to increase the safety of the tab 380 within the receptacle and handle opening A3.

The tab 380 may be substantially 'arrow' shaped so as to define a pair of opposing shoulders or detents for securely engaging the handle opening A3 and/or the receiver RC.

The first top panel 318, the second top panel 320, the first side panel 314 and the second side panel 316, and the main panel 312 form a tubular structure. Each end of the tubular structure is closed by an end closure structure. The first end closure structure includes a first end panel 324 hingedly connected to a first end of the main panel 312 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 325. The first top end flap 326 is hingedly connected to the first end panel 324 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 327.

First anchoring flap 322A is hingedly connected to a first end of first top panel 318 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 323A. First anchor flap 322A is hingedly connected to first top end flap 326 by a pair of hinge panels 328A, 330A. The pair of hinged panels 328A, 330A form a gusset. The first connection panel 328A is hingedly connected to the first anchor flap 322A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The second connection panel 330A is hingedly connected to the first connection panel 328A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The second connection panel 330A is hingedly connected to the first top end flap 326 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line.

The second anchor flap 322B is hingedly connected to the first end of the second top panel 320 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 323B. The second anchor flap 322B is hingedly connected to the first top end flap 326 by a pair of hinged panels 328B, 330B forming a second gusset. The third connecting panel 328B is hingedly connected to the second anchor flap 322B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The fourth connection panel 330B is hingedly connected to the third connection panel 328B by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The fourth connection panel 330B is hingedly connected to the first top end flap 326 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line.

The first end panel 324 is separated from each of the first and second anchor flaps 322A, 322B by an aperture a 10. The aperture a10 separates each of the pair of hinged panels 328A/330A, 328B/330B from a respective one of the first side panel 314 and the second side panel 316.

The second end closure structure includes a second end panel 334 hingedly connected to the second end of the main panel 312 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 335. The second top end flap 336 is hingedly connected to the second end panel 334 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 337.

The third anchor flap 332A is hingedly connected to the second end of first top panel 318 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 333A. The third anchor flap 332A is hingedly connected to the second top end flap 336 by a pair of hinged panels 338A, 340A forming a third gusset. The fifth connecting panel 338A is hingedly connected to the third anchor flap 332A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The sixth connection panel 340A is hingedly connected to the fifth connection panel 338A by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. The sixth connection panel 340A is hingedly connected to the second top end flap 336 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line.

The fourth anchor flap 332B is hingedly connected to a second end of the second top panel 320 by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 333B. The fourth anchor flap 332B is hingedly connected to the second top end flap 336 by a pair of hinged panels 338B, 340B that form a fourth gusset. The seventh connecting panel 338B is hingedly connected to the fourth anchor flap 332B by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 339B (see fig. 5B). Eighth connection panel 340B is hingedly connected to seventh connection panel 338B by a hinged connection in the form of fold line 355B. Eighth connection panel 340B is hingedly connected to second top end flap 336 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 359B.

The second end panel 334 is separated from each of the third and fourth anchor flaps 332A, 332B by an aperture a 10. The aperture a10 separates each of the pair of hinged panels 338A/340A, 338B/340B from a respective one of the first side panel 314 and the second side panel 316.

The blank 310 may include at least two alignment or registration devices W1, W2. Each of the alignment devices W1, W2 takes the form of a cut-out or recess, thereby defining an aligned edge of the blank 310 for receiving or engaging a reference pin (discussed in more detail below). The blank 310 includes a pair of first alignment devices W1, each defining a downstream or forward alignment edge. The blank 310 may also include second alignment devices W2, each defining an upstream or trailing alignment edge. Each of the cut-outs or recesses defining the alignment devices W1, W2 is punched from or defined in one of the first top panel 318 and the second top panel 320.

The blank 310 may include at least one stabilization device. In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 310 includes three stabilization devices. Each stabilization device includes an opening in at least one of the first top panel 318, the second top panel 320, and the main panel 312. Each stabilization device may include an opening in at least two or all of the first top panel 318, the second top panel 320, and the main panel 312. Each stabilization device is configured to receive an adjoining peg or jaw (described in further detail below).

The shape of the opening forming at least a portion of the stabilization device may be non-circular and may be substantially square or diamond-shaped. The one or more openings in the panel providing the stabilizing means may be defined by at least one tab stamped from the panel, the at least one tab being formed in the panel and hingedly connected thereto.

In the illustrated embodiment, the opening is defined in part by a pair of tabs 370, 372, each tab stamped from the first top panel 318 and hingedly connected to the first top panel 318 in opposed relation to one another. The pair of tabs 370, 372 may be separated from each other by a cut or severable line 377.

The first stabilization device is arranged to be disposed in vertical alignment with the gap or void between the first set of four items packaged within carrier 390. The second stabilizing device is arranged to be disposed in vertical alignment with the gaps or interstices between the second set of four articles. The third stabilizing device is arranged to be disposed in vertical alignment with the gaps or spaces between the third set of four articles.

Turning to constructing the carrier 390 from the blank 310, the blank 310 may be formed into an assembled carrier 390, as shown in fig. 6.

The blank 310 is applied to a group of articles B. The blank 310 is lowered relative to a group of articles B. Each of the article retention features RT1, RT2 of the blank 310 is aligned with a corresponding article B in the group. Part of the article B passes through the main panel 312. The toothed region of the main panel 312 surrounding each of the article retention structures RT1, RT2 may be folded out of the plane of the main panel 312.

Each toothed region of the main panel 312 may be folded around one of the articles B that is received in a respective one of the article retention structures RT1, RT 2. The main panel 312 may be deformed around an article B, such as, but not limited to, a shoulder portion of the article B, which may be provided by a neck-in the case of a can of the article B.

The blank 310 may be partially folded about fold lines 313, 315 to bring the first side panel 314 and the second side panel 316 into non-coplanar relationship with the main panel 312.

The blank 310 is folded about fold lines 323A, 323B, 333A, 333B to place the first, second, third and fourth anchor flaps 322A, 322B, 332A, 332B in a substantially face-to-face relationship with the first or second side panels 314, 316 to which they are hinged.

The blank 310 is folded about fold lines 325, 335 to fold the first end panel 324 and the second end panel 334 into a substantially at least perpendicular relationship with the main panel 312. In some embodiments, the first end panel 324 and the second end panel 334 may be folded at an angle greater than 90 ° so as to be angled.

The blank 310 is folded about fold lines 327, 337 to fold the first and second top end flaps 326, 336 relative to the respective one of the first and second end panels 324, 334 to which they are hinged.

The first and second top end flaps 326, 336 may be folded over the upper end of the article B or articles B disposed adjacent the first and second ends of the main panel 312.

The first and second top end flaps 326, 336 may be folded to be substantially parallel to the main panel 312.

In response to folding first, second, third, and fourth anchor flaps 322A, 322B, 332A, 332B into substantial face contacting relation with a respective one of first and second side panels 314, 316, first and second end panels 324, 334 and first and second top end flaps 326, 336 may be automatically folded.

The blank 310 is folded about fold lines 313, 315 such that the first side panel 314 and the second side panel 316 are in a substantially perpendicular relationship with the main panel 312.

The blank 310 is folded about fold line 317 to fold the first top panel 318 over the top of article B. The blank 310 is folded about fold line 319 to fold the second top panel 320 over the top of article B and into overlapping relationship with the first top panel 318 to form a composite top panel 318/320.

The locking tab 380 moves downwardly out of the plane of the second top panel 320 so as to pass through a corresponding one of the receiver openings. As a result, the receiver tabs 392, 394, 396 are moved out of the plane of the first top panel 318.

The locking tab 380 engages with the first receiver tab 396 and the second receiver tab 392. The shoulder of the locking tab 380 may engage not only with the perimeter of the corresponding handle opening A3, but also with the edges of each of the first receiver tab 396 and the second receiver tab 392. The shoulder of the locking tab 380 engages the edge of each of the first receiver tab 396 and the second receiver tab 392 defined by a cut-out or recess in the free edge opposite the hinged connections 391, 393 of these receiver tabs to the first top panel 318.

The recessed edges of the first receiver tab 396 and the second receiver tab 392 prevent or inhibit the lock tab 380 from disengaging from the locked condition with the first receiver tab 396 and the second receiver tab 392.

The locking tabs 380 and receiver tabs 396, 392 may also be used to act as a spacer between the composite top panel 318/320 and the main panel 312. The locking tab 380 may engage the main panel 312 along the perimeter of the handle opening A3 and/or the lower surface of the main panel 312 and may thereby act as a tension member for maintaining the spacing between the main panel 312 and the composite top panel 318/320 in order to prevent the spacing from increasing. Additionally, the receiver tabs 396, 392 and/or the locking tabs 380 may engage or abut an inner or upper surface of the main panel 312 and may be supported thereby between the composite top panel 318/320 and the main panel 312 to maintain a spacing therebetween to help prevent a reduction in the spacing. Accordingly, at least a portion of the locking tab 380 and/or at least a portion of one or more of the receiver tabs 396, 392 may be disposed between the first top panel 318 and the main panel 312 to maintain a spacing therebetween.

The locking tab 380 may also provide a buffer tab to improve comfort when carrying the package 390 by inserting one or more fingers into openings in the composite top panel 318/320 and main panel 312.

The first receiver tab 396 and the second receiver tab 392 may extend through the handle opening A3 when folded.

The locking tab 380 may also engage the main panel 312 to pass through a respective one of the handle openings A3. The shoulder of the locking tab 380 may engage the underside of the main panel 312; the underside is a second side of the main panel 312 opposite the first side through which the locking tab 380 is received.

The third tab 394 may provide a biasing mechanism. The third tab 394 has a natural or inherent tendency to return to the deployed state. This may provide or supplement the resilient bias of the locking tab 380 to return to the deployed state. The third tab 394 urges the locking tab 380 toward an end stop defined by the recessed edges of the first receiver tab 396 and the second receiver tab 392. The end stop inhibits or prevents the lock tab 380 from returning to the deployed state.

Fig. 7-12 illustrate an embodiment of a packaging apparatus 400, 500, 600 formed for assembling the blank 10 of fig. 1-6 around a group of articles B; 110; 310.

Fig. 7-10 illustrate views of a packaging apparatus 400 suitable for assembling the blank 110 of fig. 3. Fig. 11 shows a view of a packaging apparatus 500 suitable for assembling the blank 310 of fig. 5. Fig. 12 shows a view of a packaging apparatus 600 suitable for assembling the blank 10 of fig. 1.

Returning to fig. 7, a packaging apparatus 400 is shown that includes a grouping and metering apparatus and an applicator 420 for applying the blank 110 to a metered set of articles (not shown in fig. 7, fig. 8 shows article B, and fig. 9 shows the position of article B in phantom).

The metering device includes a first plurality of article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 for engaging, metering, and driving a first column of articles B through the packaging device 400. The metering device includes a second plurality of article engaging means 432A, 432B, 434 for engaging, metering, and driving a second column of articles B through the packaging device 400. The second plurality of article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 is disposed opposite the first plurality of article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434.

Each of the article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 is coupled to or includes a drive mechanism to advance each of the first and second plurality of article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 about a respective track or loop.

Each of the item engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 is coupled to or mounted to a respective track or loop (not shown) having a working range and a return range. The article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 may include magnets (not shown) for holding the article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 to the track. The track includes a drive mechanism for driving the article-engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 about the track. The drive mechanism may take the form of a linear motor. A stator including coils is mounted to the track and generates a propulsive force by acting on the magnets to drive the article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 about the track. Each of the article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 can be independently or individually controlled, in this way, the pitch between the article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 can be changed, and the article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 can be individually accelerated or decelerated.

Each article-engaging tool 432A, 432B, 434 of the first plurality of article-engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 is synchronously driven at least through the working range of the packaging apparatus 400, 500, 600 with a respective one of the article-engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 of the second plurality of article-engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434.

The packaging apparatus 400 may combine a first stream of articles B with a second stream of articles B, the first plurality of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 engaging articles from the first stream, and the second plurality of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 engaging articles from the second stream.

Each article engaging tool 432A, 432B, 434 includes a carriage 448 having at least one wheel or follower 446, in some embodiments, two, three, four, or more wheels or followers 446 may be provided on each carriage 448 and engage with the track.

Each carriage 448 includes a head 442 removably mounted thereto by a securing mechanism 444. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism 444 may take the form of a bayonet style fitting or mount. In this manner, the head 442 is easily separated from the carriage 448 and can be interchanged, exchanged, or replaced. This allows the head 442 to be replaced with a different head to accommodate a different carton blank 10;110;310 or article B or to enable replacement of a damaged or broken head.

Each of the heads 442 includes a clamp or scoop 443 to provide at least one engagement surface for engaging an article B. The clamp 443 includes a pair of fingers or protrusions (limb) defining a recess or channel arranged to receive a portion of the article B.

Each of the heads 442 may include a reference pin or post 440 extending upwardly therefrom. The reference pin 440 is mounted to the head 442 at a first proximal end and extends upwardly to a distal free end. The distal free end is disposed at a height above the upper end of the article B. In this manner, the reference pin 440 is configured to engage the blank 110 when placed on the upper end of an article B of the group of articles B. The heads 442 formed for the preceding article-engaging tool 432B and the following article-engaging tool 432A may include a first reference pin or post 440. The head 442 forming the intermediate article-engaging tool 434 may include an optional second reference pin or post 440'. The second reference pin or post 440' may be offset relative to the first reference pin 440 provided by the preceding article-engaging tool 432B and the following article-engaging tool 432A, best illustrated in fig. 8.

The reference pin 440 is arranged to be located between a forward portion of the head 442 and a rearward portion of the head 442. The reference pin 440 is located upstream of the downstream end, edge or wall of the article B engaged by the head 442 to which it is mounted, and the reference pin 440 is located downstream of the upstream end, edge or wall of the article B engaged by said head 442.

The reference pin 440 may be disposed within the footprint of the carriage 448 and/or the head 442. In this way, two adjacent carriages 448 or heads 442 can be brought into close proximity without interference from the reference pin 440 or its mounting. This enables two or more article-engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 to bring two or more articles B into close proximity or to engage two or more articles B disposed in close proximity.

To form a metered set of articles B, pairs of article-engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 group together pairs of articles B (one article from each of the first and second columns or streams of articles B).

Two or more pairs of article-engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 may be employed to form a set of articles B, in the illustrated embodiment, four pairs of article-engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 form a set of eight articles B in a 2 x 4 matrix or array.

To form the set, the former pair of article-engaging tools 432B may be retarded to allow the intermediate pair of article-engaging tools 434 and the latter pair of article-engaging tools 432A to catch up with the pair of article-engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 disposed downstream thereof. Once each upstream pair of article-engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 captures an adjacent downstream pair of article-engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434, they may likewise be delayed to match the speed of the downstream pair. In alternative embodiments, it will be appreciated that the speed of an upstream pair of article-engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 may be increased or accelerated to capture an adjacent downstream pair of article-engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434.

As the article-engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 form the group of articles B, the blank 110 is lowered onto the upper end of the articles B forming the group.

The blank 110 is lowered or fed from above by an overhead conveyor (not shown) and moved in a downstream direction with the articles B such that the previously aligned edges provided by a pair of first alignment devices W1 are brought into contact with a corresponding plurality of reference pins 440 in a previous pair of article engaging tools 432B.

When formation of the set of articles B is completed at the latter pair of article-engaging tools 432A, the reference pins 440 of the respective pluralities in the latter pair of article-engaging tools 432A are brought into contact with the latter alignment edges provided by the pair of second alignment devices W2. The blank 110 is restrained between the preceding article-engaging tool 432B and the reference pin 440 of the following article-engaging tool 432A. The reference pins 440 ensure proper alignment of the blank with respect to the group of articles B and maintain such alignment as the blank 110 and articles B move in a downstream direction through the packaging apparatus.

It will be appreciated that in some embodiments, only one of the latter pair of article-engaging tools 432A and one of the former pair of article-engaging tools 432B may include a reference pin 440; the reference pin 440 is disposed on diagonally opposite ones of the article engaging tools 432A and 432B of the preceding pair.

The reference pins 440' (when provided) of the intermediate pair of article-engaging tools 434 may contact or engage the side edges S1, S2 of the blank 110 to further support the alignment of the blank 110 with respect to the set of articles B.

The reference pins 440, 440' each engage a panel 118, 120 hingedly connected to the main or engagement panel 112. The panels 118, 120 are folded around the sides or ends of the article group and in so doing, the panels 118, 120 (particularly the aligned edges) disengage from the reference pins 440, 440'.

The packaging apparatus 400 includes an applicator 420 for effecting folding of the panels 118, 120 relative to the main or splice panel 112.

The applicator 420 includes a plate 421, and a lower or engagement surface of the plate 421 includes a plurality of recesses or apertures, each adapted to receive an upper portion of the article B. The illustrated embodiment includes eight wells arranged in a 2 x 4 matrix or array.

The plate 421 includes one or more folding die (or hemming die) or hemming machines 452A, 452B depending from a lower or engagement surface of the plate 421. The hemming dies or hemming machines 452A, 452B effect folding of the side panels 118, 120 relative to the main or splice panel 112.

The plate 421 includes one or more retaining or stabilizing pins or lugs 450 depending from a lower or engagement surface of the plate 421. The illustrated embodiment includes three stabilization pins 450, best shown in fig. 9.

Stabilization pin 450 is longer in length than hemming dies 452A, 452B so as to extend thereunder. The stabilization pin 450 is a first portion of the applicator 420 to engage the blank 110. Stabilization pins 450 (also referred to herein as abutment pegs) are received by respective stabilization devices M. The stabilization pin 450 is inserted into an opening of the stabilization device M and when the stabilization pin 450 is received, the tab 94 (when present) is folded out of the plane of the main panel 112. The stabilizing pins 450 prevent or inhibit movement of the blank 110 relative to the applicator 420 and maintain proper alignment of the blank 110 with the articles B when the side panels 118, 120 are folded about the sides of the article group.

The applicator 420 is lowered relative to the article B so as to press the blank 110 over the upper end of the article B. The applicator 420 is brought into contact with the blank 110, the stabilizing pins 450 are received by the stabilizing device M, the side panels 118, 120 are folded downwardly, the applicator 420 is further lowered and the applicator presses down on the blank 110 so that the article B is received in each of the article holding structures RT1, RT 2. The tabs 140, 142, 144, 154 are folded out of the plane of the engagement panel 112 and engage under a flange or other suitable projection provided on the article B.

Fig. 11 shows a view of a packaging apparatus 500 suitable for assembling the blank 310 of fig. 5. The packaging apparatus 500 includes a head 542 that has been adapted to accommodate the blank 310. In particular, the head 542 includes reference pins 540 that are disposed farther from the engagement surface 543 of the head 542 than the reference pins of the head 442 of the embodiment of fig. 7-10. In the illustrated embodiment, the securing mechanism 544 is disposed between the engagement surface 543 of the head 542 and the reference pin 540. In the embodiment of fig. 7-10, the reference pin 440 is disposed between the securing mechanism 444 and the engagement surface 443 of the head 442.

The head 542 of fig. 11 and the head 442 of fig. 7-10 may be interchangeable, that is, the head may be selected depending on the blank being packaged. The carriage 448 and the carriage 548 may be substantially similar such that either the head 542 or the head 442 can be mounted thereto.

Referring now to fig. 12, a view of a packaging apparatus 600 suitable for assembling the blank 10 of fig. 1 is shown.

The applicator 620 includes a pair of first stabilization pegs or pins 650 adapted to be received in openings of the stabilization device M.

The applicator 620 includes an optional second stabilizing peg or pin 654 adapted to be received in a handle opening of the handle structure H. The second stabilizing peg 654 is shaped and dimensioned to fit the handle opening and may be wider or larger in diameter than the first stabilizing peg 650.

In some embodiments, the pair of first stabilizing pegs or pins 650 may be omitted, and only a second stabilizing peg or pin 654 may be provided, the second stabilizing peg or pin 654 may be shaped to prevent or inhibit rotation of the blank relative to the applicator 620 when the second stabilizing peg or pin 654 is received in the stabilizing device provided by the blank 10.

The applicator 620 includes one or more first hemming dies or hemmers depending from the lower or engagement surface of the panel. The hemming die or hemming machine effects folding of the side panels 18, 20 relative to the main or splice panel 12.

The applicator 620 includes one or more second hemming dies or hemmers 652C, 652C depending from the lower or joining surface of the plate. The hemming die or hemming machine effects folding of the end panels 14, 16 relative to the main or splice panel 12.

The applicator 620 is mounted to an overhead wheel that is adapted to maintain the orientation of the applicator 620 relative to a conveyor (not shown). The applicator 620 is maintained substantially parallel to the conveyor such that the engagement surface of the plate faces the article B and/or the conveyor throughout the rotation of the overhead wheel.

Referring now to fig. 13-19, alternative embodiments of the packaging system, article carrier, and blank, apparatus, and applicator of the present disclosure are shown. The alternative embodiment shares many common features with the embodiments of fig. 1-12, so only differences from the embodiments illustrated in fig. 1-12 will be described in more detail.

Referring to fig. 13, a plan view of a pair of connected blanks 401 is shown, each of which is capable of forming a carton or carrier 490 (as shown in fig. 17) for containing and carrying a set of primary products, such as, but not limited to, bottles or cans (hereinafter article B), as shown in fig. 17.

In the illustrated embodiment, the blanks 410A, 410B are configured to form a carton or carrier 490 for packaging the exemplary article B of the exemplary arrangement. In the embodiment illustrated in fig. 13, each blank 410A, 410B is configured to package items in a 2 x 2 matrix or array arrangement (two rows of two items B are provided) and item B is a beverage can.

Alternatively, the blanks 410A, 410B may be configured to form carriers for packaging other types, numbers, and sizes of articles and/or for packaging articles in different arrangements or configurations.

Referring to fig. 13, a pair of connected blanks 401 is shown, including a first blank 410A and a second blank 410B. The second blank 410B is severable or is frangibly connected to the first blank 410A by a frangible connection 413. Each of the blanks 410A, 410B includes a main or joining panel 412 for forming a top wall or joining panel of the carrier 490.

The frangible connection 413 may take the form of a plurality of cut lines spaced apart to define connection gaps or bridging portions N1, N2, N3, N4 therebetween. The bridge portions N1, N2, N3, N4 couple the first blank 410A to the second blank 410B. In the illustrated embodiment, frangible connection 413 includes four connection notches or bridge portions N1, N2, N3, N4 arranged in pairs N1/N2, N3/N4. A first pair of connection notches N1/N2 is disposed between a first article retention feature RT in the first blank 410A and a second article retention feature RT in the second blank 410B. The second article-holding structures RT are disposed adjacent to the first article-holding structures RT and each lie on an imaginary longitudinal line or axis x-x that passes through the center of each of the first and second article-holding structures RT. The first pair of attachment notches N1/N2 are disposed on opposite sides of the longitudinal line x-x. The longitudinal line x-x may define or pass in the region of closest proximity between the article B received in the first blank 410A and the article B received in the second blank 410B. Frangible connection 413 includes a second pair of connection notches N3/N4 disposed between third article retention feature RT in first blank 410A and fourth article retention feature RT in second blank 410B. The second pair of attachment notches N3/N4 are disposed on opposite sides of an imaginary line (not shown) extending longitudinally along the pair of attached blanks 401 and through the center of each of the third and fourth article retaining structures RT.

The main panel 412 includes at least one article retention feature RT. In the illustrated embodiment, the main panels 412 each include a plurality of article retention structures RT, in particular four article retention structures RT arranged in a 2 x 2 matrix or array. Each of the main panels 412 includes two columns of article retention features RT, each column including two article retention features RT. Each of the article retention structures RT includes an aperture A1.

Each of the article retention features RT is substantially similar in construction and will therefore be described in detail with reference to a first one of the article retention features RT positioned adjacent a first end of a second blank 410B as shown in fig. 13.

The article retention structure RT includes an article receiving opening defined in part by aperture A1.

The article retention structure RT includes a plurality of engagement teeth 440 disposed about the aperture A1.

The plurality of teeth 440 are hinged to the main panel 412 by a fold line. The fold line may be defined by a plurality of cut lines 443, 445. The plurality of cut lines 443, 445 may define or approximate a circle.

Each of the plurality of teeth 440 includes an engagement edge E1 opposite the hinge edge. The engagement edge E1 is defined by a linear portion of the cutting line defining the aperture A1. Each engagement edge E1 defines a portion of a polygon. The illustrated embodiment includes sixteen teeth 440. Each tooth 440 includes a pair of side edges defined by cut lines 441 extending radially outwardly from respective vertices of the polygon. That is, starting from the respective vertex between a pair of adjacent linear portions of the cutting line defining the orifice A1. The cut lines 441 are divergently disposed relative to one another and define an angle therebetween, which may be about 22.5 °.

The article retention structure RT may include a plurality of first circumferential cut lines 443. Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 443 is aligned with one of the radial cut lines 441 such that the one of the radial cut lines 441, or an imaginary extension thereof, bisects the respective one of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 443.

Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 443 is spaced apart from the one of the radial cut lines 441 bisecting it so as to define a connection gap or bridge portion between a pair of adjacently disposed teeth 440.

The shape of each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 443 may be linear.

The article retention structure RT may include a plurality of second circumferential cut lines 445. Each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 445 is disposed between and spaced apart from a pair of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 443 so as to define a pair of connection notches or bridge portions between each tooth 440 and the main panel 412. The pair of connection notches or bridge portions provide a hinged or foldable connection between each tooth 440 and main panel 412.

The shape of each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 445 may be linear. In alternative embodiments, each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 443 may be arcuate or curved. In alternative embodiments, each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 445 may be arcuate or curved.

In the illustrated embodiment, the radius of curvature of each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 445 is equal to the radius of curvature of each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 443, however, in other embodiments, the two may be different.

The blanks 410A, 410B include a handle structure H. The handle structure H includes a handle opening or finger opening disposed on a longitudinal axis bisecting the main panel 412. The handle opening is disposed between a set of four article retention features RT. The handle opening is provided in the center or middle of the main panel 412.

Each handle opening is defined by a plurality of tabs 460, 462. The handle opening includes four tabs 460, 462. Each tab 460, 462 is hinged to the main panel 412 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line. An arcuate or curvilinear cut line may be provided between each fold line to define a corner or vertex of the handle opening. The handle opening is substantially diamond or diamond-shaped, in other embodiments other shapes may be employed, such as, but not limited to, square. The handle opening includes a pair of primary tabs 460 and a pair of secondary tabs 462.

The pair of primary tabs 460 are separated from each other by a first cut or severable line. The pair of secondary tabs 462 are separated from each other by a first cut line or a severable line. The pair of primary tabs 460 are separated from the pair of secondary tabs 462 by a secondary cut or severable line.

The first cut line is collinear with an imaginary line passing longitudinally through the center of the set of four article retention features RT.

The first cut line may be linear in shape and may extend between a first pair of opposing vertices of the handle opening. The shape of the second cut line may be non-linear and may extend between a second pair of opposing vertices of the handle opening. The second cutting line intersects the first cutting line, the second cutting line comprising a "V" or "U" shaped intermediate portion; the apex of the "V" or "U" shaped portion intersects the first cut line.

One of the pair of primary tabs 460 is hinged to the main panel 412 by a first fold line. The other of the pair of primary tabs 460 is hinged to the main panel 412 by a second fold line. The first fold line is divergently disposed with respect to the second fold line.

One of the pair of secondary tabs 462 is hinged to the main panel 412 by a third fold line. The other of the pair of secondary tabs 462 is hinged to the main panel 412 by a fourth fold line. The third fold line is divergently disposed with respect to the fourth fold line.

The first fold line is divergently disposed with respect to the third fold line. The second fold line is divergently disposed with respect to the fourth fold line.

The handle openings may form a stabilizing device during application of the blanks 410A, 410B to a group of articles B. The stabilization device is configured to receive an abutment peg or pawl (described in further detail below).

The shape of the opening of the stabilization device may be non-circular and may be substantially square or diamond-shaped.

A peg or pawl may be provided for engaging the blank 410A, 410B via the handle opening to prevent or inhibit linear or rotational movement of the blank 410A, 410B relative to the pawl. The jaws may be mounted to or integral with an applicator device (described in more detail below) for applying the blanks 410A, 410B to a group of articles B.

The opening of the stabilizing device or the handle opening may comprise at least one flat or linear portion for engaging a complementary flat or linear portion of the pawl. In other embodiments, the stabilization device or handle opening may include at least one generally "V" or "U" shaped portion for engaging the complementary portion of the pawl.

The blanks 410A, 410B are applied simultaneously to a pair of article groups. The main panel 412 of each blank 410A, 410B is applied to one of the sets of articles B. The pair of connected blanks 401 is lowered relative to the article B to rest thereon as shown in fig. 14.

An applicator device AP is provided to engage the blanks 410A, 410B with the article B. The applicator device AP includes a plate or body 450 from which a plurality of guides G may extend. Guides G depend downwardly from the panel 450 and ensure that the article B is maintained in a desired configuration or arrangement for receipt by the blanks 410A, 410B. The guides may also ensure or maintain the alignment of the pair of connected blanks 401 with the groups of articles B. In the illustrated embodiment, the guide G takes the form of a plurality of fingers or elongate members, however, in other embodiments the guide may take the form of vertical walls depending downwardly from the plate 450 so as to enclose at least the upper portion of the pair of article groups.

The applicator device AP includes a pair of posts P1, P2 that depend from a lower or engagement surface of the plate 450 as retaining or stabilizing pins or lugs. The illustrated embodiment includes two stabilizing pins, best shown in fig. 14. In fig. 14-17, a portion of the applicator device AP has been cut away for illustrative purposes, as indicated by hatching. As the applicator device AP is lowered over the pair of connected blanks 401 and article B, the first post P1 engages the stabilizing device provided by the handle opening of the first blank 410A. The second post P2 engages the stabilizing device provided by the handle opening of the second blank 410B, best shown in fig. 15. When the stabilizing pins are received, the tabs 460, 462 of the handle structure H are folded out of the plane of the main panel 412.

Depending from the lower surface of the plate 450 are disconnecting means BL which may take the form of blades mounted substantially perpendicularly with respect to the lower surface of the plate 450. The disconnection means BL extend transversely across the plate 450.

Upon further lowering of the applicator device AP relative to the pair of connected blanks 401 and articles B, the posts P1, P2 are further inserted through the handle openings, with the disconnecting means BL aligned with and moving downwardly relative to the frangible connection 413. In so doing, the disconnect BL splits or cleaves the connection notches or bridge portions N1, N2, N3, N4, thereby separating the first and second blanks 410A, 410B from one another.

Continued lowering of the applicator assembly AP relative to the pair of blanks 410A, 410B and article B brings the lower or engaging surface of the plate 450 into contact with the blanks 410A, 410B, as shown in fig. 16.

The lower OR engagement surface of plate 450 includes a plurality of recesses OR apertures OR, each adapted to receive an upper portion of article B. The illustrated embodiment includes eight apertures OR arranged in a 2 x 4 matrix OR array. The apertures OR may be at least partially bottom-closed, that is, they include end stops ES, thereby preventing the articles B from passing through the plate 450.

The stabilization pin is now fully inserted into the stabilization device to prevent or inhibit movement of the pair of blanks 410A, 410B relative to the applicator AP and to maintain proper alignment of each blank 410A, 410B with the article B.

The applicator AP is lowered still further relative to article B to press the blanks 410A, 410B over the upper end of article B. The applicator AP presses the blanks 410A, 410B downwardly so that the articles B are received in each of the article holding structures RT. The tab 440 is folded out of the plane of the engagement panel 412 and engages under a flange or other suitable projection provided on the article B (best shown in fig. 17) to form the package.

These assembled packages may be transported to further processing stations or points of sale, with respect to raising the applicator AP with respect to the packages.

Fig. 18 illustrates a number of alternative blade configurations BL1, BL2, BL3, BL4, BL5. The first blade BL1 includes a single breaking edge (CE) parallel to the mounting edge ME. When in use, the entire breaking edge CE simultaneously engages the frangible connection.

The second blade BL2 includes a pair of breaking edges CE1, CE2 that are divergently arranged with respect to each other to form a point or vertex. Each of the pair of breaking edges CE1, CE2 is non-parallel or divergently arranged with respect to the mounting edge ME.

A third blade BL3 is shown in fig. 18, which third blade BL3 is substantially similar to the second blade BL2, except that the pair of breaking edges CE1, CE2 are arranged such that a smaller interior angle is defined therebetween.

A fourth blade BL4 is shown in fig. 18, which fourth blade BL4 is substantially similar to the second and third blades BL2, BL3, except that the pair of breaking edges CE1, CE2 are arranged such that a smaller interior angle is defined therebetween. To achieve this without substantially increasing the height of the fourth blade BL4, each of the pair of breaking edges CE1, CE2 comprises a marginal portion arranged substantially parallel to the mounting edge ME.

In fig. 18 is shown a fifth blade BL5, which fifth blade BL5 comprises a recess, scalloped or serrated breaking edge. The fifth blade BL5 comprises four divergently arranged breaking edges CE1, CE2, CE3, CE4. The first and second breaking edges CE1, CE2 are divergently arranged with respect to each other to form a point or vertex substantially at the center or middle region of the fifth blade BL 5. The third breaking edge CE3 and the fourth breaking edge CE4 are provided at the marginal region of the fifth blade BL 5. The third breaking edge CE3 is divergently arranged with respect to the first breaking edge CE1 to define a recess R therebetween. The fourth breaking edge CE4 is divergently arranged with respect to the second breaking edge CE2 to define a recess R therebetween.

The third breaking edge CE3 may be arranged parallel to the second breaking edge CE2. The fourth breaking edge CE4 may be arranged parallel to the first breaking edge CE1.

The fifth blade BL5 may be considered to have a plurality of breaking edges or blades CE1, CE2, CE3, CE4 mounted to a common base or mounting body.

When separating a pair of blanks 410A, 410B, a fifth blade BL5 may be advantageous, wherein the articles B in the first group joined by the first blank 410A are in contact or close proximity to the articles B in the second group joined by the second blank 410B. The recesses R avoid areas of contact or close proximity between pairs or cylinders of articles B. In this way, the fifth blade BL5 is prevented from contacting or colliding with the article B.

Referring now to fig. 19, a packaging apparatus is shown that is configured to automatically apply the pair of connected blanks 401 to groups of articles B. The packaging apparatus includes a plurality of tool heads 702 mounted to an overhead wheel arrangement 754.

The overhead wheel arrangement 754 is adapted to maintain the orientation of the applicator 720 relative to the conveyor 753. For illustrative purposes, the applicator 720 is shown in cutaway view (as indicated by hatching) to illustrate the posts P1, P2 mounted thereto. The applicator 720 is maintained substantially parallel to the conveyor 753 such that the engagement surface of the plate 450 faces the article B and/or the conveyor through rotation of the overhead wheel.

The applicator 720 is movably mounted to the tool head 702 and is resiliently biased toward the conveyor 753 by a spring mount 758 depending from a mounting plate 756.

The applicator 720 differs from that shown in fig. 13-17 in that the guide G has been omitted and instead the pair of connected blanks 401 are aligned relative to the article B by the reference posts 740 mounted to the article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734.

The packaging apparatus includes grouping and metering apparatus and an overhead applicator for applying the pair of connected blanks 401 to metered sets of articles B.

The metering device includes a first plurality of article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 for engaging, metering, and driving the first column of articles B through the packaging device. The metering device includes a second plurality of article-engaging tools (not shown in fig. 19) configured in a similar manner to those shown in the embodiment of fig. 7-11 for engaging, metering, and driving a second column of articles B through the packaging device. The second plurality of article engaging tools is disposed opposite the first plurality of article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734.

Each of the article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 is coupled to or includes a drive mechanism to advance each of the first and second plurality of article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 about a respective track or loop.

Each of the article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 is coupled or mounted to a respective track or loop (not shown) having a working range and a return range. The article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 may include magnets (not shown) for holding the article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 to the track. The track includes a drive mechanism for driving the article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 about the track. The drive mechanism may take the form of a linear motor. A stator including coils is mounted to the track and generates a propulsive force by acting on the magnets to drive the article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 about the track. Each of the article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 can be independently or individually controlled in such a way that the pitch between the article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 can be varied and the article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 can be individually accelerated or decelerated.

Each article-engaging tool 732A, 732B, 734 of the first plurality of article-engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 is driven synchronously with a respective one of the article-engaging tools of the second plurality of article-engaging tools at least through the operating range of the packaging apparatus.

The packaging apparatus may combine a first stream of articles B with a second stream of articles B, the first plurality of article-engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 engaging articles from the first stream, and the second plurality of article-engaging tools engaging articles from the second stream.

Each article engaging tool 732A, 732B, 734 comprises a carriage having at least one wheel or follower 746, in some embodiments, two, three, four, or more wheels or followers 746 may be provided on each carriage and engaged with the track.

Each carriage includes a head detachably mounted thereto by a securing mechanism. In some embodiments, the locking mechanism may take the form of a bayonet style fitting or mount. In this way, the head is easily separated from the carriage and can be interchanged, exchanged or replaced. This allows the head to be replaced with a different head to accommodate a different carton blank or article B or to enable replacement of a damaged or broken head.

Each of the heads includes a clamp or scoop to provide at least one engagement surface for engaging the article B. The clamp includes a pair of fingers or protrusions defining a recess or channel arranged to receive a portion of the article B.

Each of the heads may include a reference pin or post 740 extending upwardly therefrom. A reference pin 740 is mounted to the head at the first proximal end and extends upwardly to a distal free end. The distal free end is disposed at a height above the upper end of the article B. In this manner, the reference pin 740 is configured to engage the connected pair of blanks 401 when placed on the upper ends of the articles B of the plurality of sets of articles B. The heads formed of the preceding article-engaging tool 732B and the following article-engaging tool 732A may include a first reference pin or post 740. The head forming the intermediate article-engaging tool 734 may include an optional second reference pin or post. The second reference pin or post may be offset in a direction transverse to the article flow direction F relative to the first reference pin 740 provided by the preceding and following article-engaging tools 732a,732 b.

The reference pin 740 is arranged to be located between the front portion of the head and the rear portion of the head. The reference pin 740 is located upstream of the downstream end, edge or wall of the article B engaged by the head to which it is mounted, and the reference pin 740 is located downstream of the upstream end, edge or wall of the article B engaged by the head.

The reference pin 740 may be disposed within the footprint of the carriage and/or head. In this way, two adjacent carriages or heads can be brought into close proximity without interference from the reference pin 740 or its mounting. This enables the two or more article-engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 to bring two or more articles B into close proximity or engage two or more articles B disposed in close proximity.

To form metered sets of articles B, pairs of article-engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 group together pairs of articles B (one article from each of the first and second columns or streams of articles B).

Two or more pairs of article-engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 may be employed to form at least two sets of articles B, in the illustrated embodiment, four pairs of article-engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 forming two sets of four articles B, each set in a 2 x 2 matrix or array.

To form these groups, the former pair of article-engaging tools 732B may be retarded to allow the intermediate pair of article-engaging tools 734 and the latter pair of article-engaging tools 732A to catch up with the pair of article-engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 disposed downstream thereof. In some embodiments, at least a first pair of intermediate article-engaging tools 734 catches up with a preceding pair of article-engaging tools 732B, at least a second pair of intermediate article-engaging tools 734 follows at least the first pair of intermediate article-engaging tools 734 by a predefined distance, and at least a second pair of intermediate article-engaging tools 734 a catches up with a following pair of article-engaging tools 732A. Once each upstream pair of article-engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 captures an adjacent downstream pair of article-engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734, they may likewise be retarded to match the speed of the downstream pair. In alternative embodiments, it will be appreciated that the speed of the upstream pair of article-engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 may be increased or accelerated to capture the adjacent downstream pair of article-engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734.

As the article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 form the groups of articles B, the connected blank 401 is lowered onto the upper ends of the articles B forming the groups.

The overhead wheel arrangement brings the applicator 720 into contact with the connected blank 401, which is substantially similar to the applicator AP of fig. 14-17 to apply the blanks 410A, 410B to the article B.

Referring now to fig. 20-24, a packaging apparatus 800 (best shown in fig. 24) is shown that is configured to automatically separate a pair of connected article carriers 491. A pair of connected blanks 401, such as those illustrated in fig. 13 and described above, have been applied to groups of articles B to form connected article carriers 491 at a previous station (not shown) of the packaging machine; this previous station may be similar in configuration to the apparatus of fig. 12 and described above, except that the second stabilizing peg or pin 654 is omitted and the hemming die or hemming machine may be omitted or replaced with an alignment guide. The packaging apparatus 800 includes at least one tool head 802 mounted to an overhead conveyor arrangement 854 that is disposed above an article conveyor (not shown). The tool head 802 is arranged to move in synchronization with the article conveyor within the operating range of the overhead conveyor arrangement 854. The attached article carrier 491 is diverted downstream (indicated by directional arrow F) on the article conveyor. The illustrated embodiment includes a plurality of tool heads 802 mounted to the track 803 and driven therearound by a drive mechanism. In some embodiments, the drive mechanism may take the form of a chain or belt arranged in an endless loop. In other embodiments, each tool head 802 may be independently driven about the track 803, each tool head 802 may include a drive motor, or the drive mechanism may take the form of a linear motor (similar to the linear motor described above with respect to the article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 of fig. 7).

Each tool head 802 includes a chassis or carriage that couples the separator SP to the track 803. The separator SP includes a plate or frame 850 from which a pair of guides G depend. The pair of guides G are spaced apart from each other and are arranged opposite to each other. The guides G engage opposite sides of the attached article carrier 491. The guide G prevents or inhibits movement of the attached article carrier 491 in a direction transverse to the flow direction F. In fig. 22 to 24, parts of the separator SP have been cut or removed for illustrative purposes, and only one guide G is shown.

The separator SP includes at least one stabilizing peg P1, P2 depending from the plate 850. The illustrated embodiment includes a pair of stabilizing pegs P1, P2 depending from the plate 850. Each of the pair of stabilizing pegs P1, P2 engages a respective one of the attached article carriers 491.

Each stabilizing peg P1, P2 is received in a handle opening or finger opening provided in the main panel 412 of each attached article carrier 491. The stabilizing pegs P1, P2 prevent or inhibit movement of the connected article carrier 491 when the separator SP divides the connected article carrier 491 into individual, discrete, disconnected article carriers 491. Each stabilization peg P1, P2 includes a fixture 811 that mounts the stabilization peg P1, P2 to the plate 850. The fixing device 811 is received in a mounting hole M provided in a lower or inner surface of the plate 850 _A1 、M _A2 Is a kind of medium. Mounting hole M _A1 、M _A2 And the fixtures 811 may be shaped so as to be coded or keyed to a particular mounting location or orientation. That is, the first post P1 is shaped to be mounted in the first mounting hole M _A1 And the second post P2 is shaped to be mounted in the second mounting hole M _A2 In (a) and (b); or each post P1, P2 is mounted in a predefined orientation relative to the plate 850.

The stabilizing pegs P1, P2 may be detachably or removably mounted to the applicator AP;720. orifice R _A1 、R _A2 May be disposed in an upper or outer surface of plate 850, aperture R _A1 、R _A2 And mounting hole M _A1 、M _A2 Is vertically aligned. Can provide an orifice R _A1 、R _A2 To secure the stabilization pegs P1, P2 to the plate 850, thereby enabling fasteners (such as, but not limited to, screws or bolts) to pass through the plate 850 and into the stabilization pegs P1, P2. In some embodiments, an orifice R may be provided _A1 、R _A2 To facilitate removal or replacement of the stabilizing pegs P1, P2, thereby enabling insertion of a tool through the plate 850 and providing access to the fixtures 811 to press or push the fixtures 811 of the stabilizing pegs P1, P2 out of the mounting holes M _A1 、M _A2 When the fixing device 811 is keyed and cannot be in the mounting hole M _A1 、M _A2 This may be advantageous when rotating internally.

The separator SP comprises at least one disconnecting or separating device BL. The at least one disconnecting or separating device BL may comprise one or more blades BL1, BL2, BL3, BL4 arranged to avoid collisions with the packaged item. The illustrated embodiment includes a pair of disconnecting or separating devices BL, each of which includes a pair of blades BL1/BL2, BL3/BL4, best shown in FIG. 21. The recess BLR separates the first blade BL1, BL3 from the second blade BL2, BL4 in each pair of paired blades BL1/BL2, BL3/BL 4. The recess is constructed and arranged to avoid collision of the separating apparatus BL with an article B in the article carrier 490. Each blade BL1, BL2, L3, BL4 is mounted to or integral with a bracket mounted to the plate 850. The stand includes a base or mounting foot 808 and a leg 807 extending therefrom, which may be disposed substantially perpendicular to the base 80 and the plate 850. The base 808 may be mounted within a recess or channel in the lower surface of the plate 850. In other embodiments, blades BL1, BL2, BL3, BL4 and support brackets may be integral with plate 850.

Fig. 24 illustrates the separator SP lowered relative to the connected article carrier 491 and in contact or engagement with the connected article carrier 491, the stabilizing pegs P1, P2 being received in the handle openings, and the separator device BL breaking the connection 413 between the article carriers 490. The separator SP is then raised (not shown) relative to the article carrier 490 and the tool head 802 returns to the beginning of the operating range of the apparatus 800 to separate a subsequent set of attached article carriers 491.

The present disclosure provides a top engagement type carrier 90;190;390;490 and a process for forming an article carrier 90;190;390;490, blank 10;110;310;410A-B having article retention features RT1, RT2 for engaging article B.

A carrier 90;190;390;490 includes a main panel 12;112;312;412 having a main panel 12 for receiving a respective article B; 112;312;412 are secured to one or more article retention structures RT1, RT2 of the respective article B. A carrier 90;190;390 may include being hingedly connected to the main panel 12 by a hinged connection; 112;312, a pair of opposed side panels 18, 20; 118. 120; 314. 316.

A carrier 90;190;390 may include being hingedly connected to the main or splice panel 12 by a hinged connection; 112;312, a pair of opposed end panels 14, 16;114A, 114B, 116A, 116B; 324. 334.

A blank 10;110;310;410A-B include a peripheral edge, a portion of which may provide at least one alignment edge shaped to be when formed by a reference device or pin 440;540;640, a base; 740, inhibit movement in two orthogonal directions when engaged.

A carrier 90;190;390 may include a hinge to the main panel 12;112;312, panels 18, 20; 118. 120; 318. 320, the panels 18, 20; 118. 120; 318. 320 includes an alignment edge shaped to inhibit movement in two orthogonal directions.

A carrier 90;190;390 may be included on the main panel 12;112; a pair of panels 18, 20 hinged thereto on opposite sides of 312; 118. 120; 318. 320, the pair of panels 18, 20; 118. 120; 318. 320 each include an alignment edge shaped to inhibit movement in two orthogonal directions.

Through the pair of panels 18, 20; 118. 120; 318. 320, a linear imaginary line N1, N2 of the aligned edges in each of the panels 320 passes through the main panel 12;112;312 defined by article retention features RT1, RT2 disposed therein.

A main or junction panel 12;112;312;412 may include at least one stabilization device M that provides the main panel 12;112;312; the openings in 412 and are arranged to inhibit movement in two orthogonal directions.

The present disclosure provides a method for packaging one or more items in an item carrier 90;190;390; device 400 in 490; 500;600;700. apparatus 400;500;600;700 includes article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 for engaging article B and transporting article B in a downstream direction; 532A, 532B, 534;632A, 632B, 634;732A, 732B, 734. Article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434;532A, 532B, 534;632A, 632B, 634;732A, 732B, 734 comprise a means for aligning the blank 10 relative to the article B; 110;310;410A-B in the form of an abutment pin or peg 440;540;640, a base; 740, form of the invention.

Article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434;532A, 532B, 534;632A, 632B, 634;732A, 732B, 734 may include a removable head 442;542 to which the reference device is mounted. A head 442;542 may include a portion of a tool-less attachment or mounting system, such as, but not limited to, a bayonet fitting.

Apparatus 400;500;600;700 may include a plurality of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434;532A, 532B, 534;632A, 632B, 634;732A, 732B, 734, each article-engaging tool being configured to engage a respective article B, meter and group the articles B, and convey the articles B as a metered group in a downstream direction. The plurality of article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434;532A, 532B, 534;632A, 632B, 634;732A, 732B, 734 are each independently driven about an endless track having a working range and a return range.

The plurality of article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434;532A, 532B, 534;632A, 632B, 634;732A, 732B, 734 may be configured to form a metered set of articles B and blank 10;110;310;410A-B are aligned therewith. The articles B may be formed into a metering group while the blank 10 is being formed; 110;310;410A-B are aligned with the blank when fed onto the upper end of article B. The blank 10 may be made; 110;310;410A-B and abutment pin 440;540;640, a base; 740 mounted to the plurality of article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 forming an article group; 532A, 532B, 534;632A, 632B, 634;732A, 732B, 734.

The blank 10 may be made; 110;310;410A-B and abutment pin 440;540;640, a base; 740 mounted to the plurality of article engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 forming an article group; 532A, 532B, 534;632A, 632B, 634;732A, 732B, 734.

When formation of the article group is completed, at least one abutment pin 440 may be made; 540;640, a base; 740 and blank 10;110;310;410A-B, the at least one abutment pin being mounted to the plurality of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434 forming an article group; 532A, 532B, 534;632A, 632B, 634;732A, 732B, 734.

An abutment pin 440;540;640, a base; 740 may be shaped to provide at least two points of contact with the aligned edges to restrain the blank 10;110;310;410A-B are parallel to blank 10;110;310;410A-B pass through the apparatus 400;500;600;700 and the blank is relative to the blank 10;110;310;410A-B pass through the apparatus 400;500;600;700 moves vertically or laterally.

Apparatus 400;500;600;700 may include a method for forming a blank 10;110;310;410A-B presses onto a group of articles B; 520;620;720, a step of selecting a specific part; and (5) an AP. An applicator 420;520;620;720, a step of selecting a specific part; the AP may include a plurality of article receiving apertures, each for receiving a respective article B in the group.

An applicator 420;520;620;720, a step of selecting a specific part; the AP includes a receiver that is configured to be received by the main panel 12;112;312; at least one stabilization peg 450 in an opening of the stabilization device M in 412; 650. 654; p1, P2. The at least one stabilizing peg 450; 650. 654; p1, P2 restrain the blank 10;110;310;410A-B relative to the applicator 420;520;620;720, a step of selecting a specific part; movement of the AP.

The at least one stabilizing peg 450; 650. 654; p1, P2 prevent or inhibit blank 10;110;310;410A-B are along with blank 10 relative to article B; 110;310;410A-B pass through the apparatus 400;500;600;700 and along a direction parallel to the flow direction of the blank 10;110;310;410A-B pass through the apparatus 400;500;600;700 in the direction of flow and in the transverse direction perpendicular thereto.

An applicator 420;520;620;720, a step of selecting a specific part; the AP is mounted to an overhead conveyor in the form of wheels as a group of articles B pass through the plurality of article engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434;532A, 532B, 534;632A, 632B, 634;732A, 732B, 734, the applicator pulls the blank 10 downstream; 110;310;410A-B are applied to or the blank is joined with the group of articles B.

An applicator 420;520;620;720, a step of selecting a specific part; the AP may include one or more hemming dies or hemming machines, each of which will hinge to the main panel 12;112;312; the panels of 412, which may include aligned edges, are folded at least partially around the group of articles B.

In some embodiments, at the applicator 420;520;620;720, a step of selecting a specific part; AP and blank 10;110;310;410A-B, when joined or contacted, allow blank 10 to be formed; 110;310;410A-B are in contact with the static folding guides.

The present disclosure provides a method of packaging a plurality of articles B. The method comprises the following steps: conveying a stream of articles B through the packaging apparatus in a downstream direction; associating each item B with an item engagement tool 432A, 432B, 434;532A, 532B, 534;632A, 632B, 634;732A, 732B, 734 are joined; grouping a plurality of items B; and at the same time, applying the blank to the upper end of article B. The method comprises the following steps: -joining the blank 10;110;310;410A-B with at least one of the front alignment edges and the front article-engaging tools 432A, 432B, 434 mounted thereto; 532A, 532B, 534;632A, 632B, 634;732A, 732B, 734; 540;640, a base; 740 are joined. The method comprises the following steps: metering the group of articles B; and to the subsequent item engagement tools 432A, 432B, 434;532A, 532B, 534;632A, 632B, 634;732A, 732B, 734; 540;640, a base; 740 and blank 10;110;310;410A-B are joined at least at the rear aligned edges.

The method further comprises the steps of: -joining the blank 10;110;310;410A-B are applied to the group of articles B to join each article B in place to the blank 10;110;310; 410A-B; 112;312;412 in respective article holding devices RT1, RT2. -joining the blank 10;110;310;410A-B applied to the group of articles B includes: a main panel 12;112;312;412 will stabilize the peg 450 prior to pressing onto the group of articles B; 650. 654; p1, P2 are inserted in openings of the stabilization device M provided in the main panel.

-joining the blank 10;110;310;410A-B may further comprise, applied to the group of articles B: at least partially folding one or more panels including front and/or rear aligned edges and coupled to the main panel 12;112;312;412. the one or more panels may be the main panel 12;112;312;412 are folded before, simultaneously with, or after engagement with the group of articles B.

The present disclosure provides a top-engaging type carrier 490 having article retention features RT, RT1, RT2 for engaging an article B and a blank 410A-B for forming the article carrier 490. The present disclosure provides a plurality of connected blanks 401 that can be applied to multiple groups of articles B simultaneously. Each of the blanks 410A-B of the plurality of connected blanks 401 is frangibly connected to at least one other blank 410A-B.

The present disclosure provides an apparatus 700 for packaging one or more items in an item carrier 490. The apparatus may include article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 for engaging article B and transporting article B in a downstream direction. The article engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 comprise reference means in the form of abutment pins or pegs 740 for aligning the plurality of connected blanks 401 with respect to the article B.

The plurality of article-engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 may be configured to form metered sets of articles B and align a plurality of connected blanks 401 therewith. The articles B may be formed into a metering group and simultaneously aligned with a plurality of connected blanks 401 as they are fed onto the upper end of the articles B. The plurality of connected blanks 401 may be brought into contact or alignment with an abutment pin 740 mounted to a preceding or downstream article-engaging tool of the plurality of article-engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 forming the article group.

The plurality of connected blanks 401 may be brought into contact or alignment with an abutment pin 740 mounted to each of a pair of preceding or downstream article-engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 of the plurality of article-engaging tools forming the article group.

When formation of the article group is completed, at least one abutment pin 740 may be brought into contact with the plurality of connected blanks 401, the at least one abutment pin being mounted to a subsequent or upstream article-engaging tool of the plurality of article-engaging tools 732A, 732B, 734 forming the article group.

The abutment pin 740 can be shaped to provide at least two points of contact with the aligned edges to inhibit movement of the plurality of connected blanks 401 parallel to the direction of flow of the plurality of connected blanks 401 through the apparatus 700 and movement of the blanks perpendicular or transverse to the direction of flow of the plurality of connected blanks 401 through the apparatus 700.

The present disclosure provides an applicator AP for pressing the plurality of connected blanks 401 onto groups of articles B; 720. an applicator AP;720 may include a plurality of article receiving apertures, each for receiving a respective article B in the group. The applicator 720 may form part of a tool head 702 mounted to the overhead wheel arrangement 754 for applying or engaging the plurality of connected blanks 401 to the plurality of sets of articles B as they are conveyed in a downstream direction on the conveyor. An applicator AP;720 include at least one severing or separating means for breaking the frangible connection 413 between adjacently disposed blanks 410A-B.

An applicator AP;720 may include at least one stabilizing peg P1, P2 receivable in an opening of a stabilizing device provided in the main panel 412 of at least one blank 410A-B forming the plurality of connected blanks 401. The at least one stabilizing peg P1, P2 constrains the plurality of connected blanks 401 relative to the applicator AP;720 movement.

The at least one stabilizing peg P1, P2 prevents or inhibits movement of the plurality of connected blanks 401 relative to the article B in a direction parallel to the flow direction of the plurality of connected blanks 401 through the packaging device and in a transverse direction perpendicular to the flow direction of the plurality of connected blanks 401 through the packaging device.

The stabilizing pegs P1, P2 may be detachably or removably mounted to the applicator AP;720. the stabilization pegs P1, P2 may be coded or keyed to a particular mounting location or orientation.

The disconnecting or separating means may comprise one or more blades CE1, CE2, CE3, CE4, BL arranged to avoid collisions with the packaged articles; BL1; BL2, BL3; BL4; BL5. The blades may be mounted to the common body in a spaced apart configuration. The blades may be arranged to be received in a gap or void between two or more articles B, the articles B being generally cylindrical in shape. The frangible connection 413 can include a connection notch or bridge portion N1, N2, N3, N4 that is vertically aligned with a gap or void between two or more articles B. The connection notches or bridge portions N1, N2, N3, N4 may be arranged in pairs to be disposed on substantially opposite sides of the region of closest proximity between the article B in the first blank and the article B in the second connected blank.

The blades BL, BL2, BL3 may be detachably or removably mounted to the applicator AP;720 such that the arrangement of blades BL, BL2, BL3 is reconfigurable depending on the arrangement and/or size of the blank applied to article B.

The present disclosure also provides a disconnect apparatus for separating a plurality of connected article carriers into discrete carriers. The disconnecting device may comprise a plurality of article receiving apertures, each for receiving a respective article B of a group. The disconnection device may comprise at least one blade BL; BL1; BL2, BL3; BL4; BL5, said at least one blade being detachably or removably mounted to the disconnecting device such that blade BL; BL1; BL2, BL3; BL4; the arrangement of BL5 is reconfigurable depending on the arrangement and/or size of the blank applied to article B.

The blade BL may be supported in the lateral direction by a support or an auxiliary blade; BL1; BL2, BL3; BL4; BL5. The blade and the support or auxiliary blade may each comprise a receiver for receiving a portion of the other, in the form of a recess or groove.

The present disclosure provides a method of packaging a plurality of articles B. The method comprises the following steps: conveying a stream of articles B through the packaging apparatus in a downstream direction; engaging each article B with an article engaging tool 732A, 732B, 734; grouping a plurality of items B; and simultaneously, a plurality of connected blanks 401 are applied to the upper end portion of article B. The method comprises the following steps: at least one of the previously aligned edges of the plurality of connected blanks 401 is engaged with a reference pin 740 mounted to a previous article engagement tool 732A, 732B, 734. The method comprises the following steps: metering the group of articles B; and engaging a reference pin 740 mounted to the subsequent article engagement tools 732A, 732B, 734 with at least one of the subsequent aligned edges of the plurality of connected blanks 401.

The method further comprises the steps of: separating the plurality of connected blanks 401 into discrete blanks 410A, 410B; and applying the discrete blanks 410A, 410B simultaneously to respective groups of articles B. Separating the plurality of connected blanks 401 includes: the stabilization pegs P1, P2 are inserted into openings of the stabilization device provided in the main panel 412 prior to splitting the frangible connection between the paired blanks 410A, 410B.

A blank 10;110;310;410A-B comprise at least a paperboard substrate. The material of the paperboard substrate may be selected from any conventional paperboard, for example, ranging in weight from about 10pt. up, preferably from about 16pt. up, to about 28pt. (0.028 "/-0.7 mm). Examples of such substrates are those made of27 Point (pt.) SBS board manufactured by Company (solid bleached sulfate board coated on one side, trade name +.>) Or->Board (CoatedNatural->Unbleached kraft board having clay coating on one side, trade name carrier kote ^TM ). The paperboard substrate may be a bleached or unbleached board. The plate may be coated on at least one side (optionally the side opposite the stack) with a conventional coating selected for compatibility with the printing process and the plate composition.

A blank 10;110;310;410A-B may include a tear resistant layer laminated to a paperboard layer. Optionally, it comprises 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 a polymeric material and secured to the substrate. The tear resistant layer imparts toughness to the laminate structure. Suitable tear resistant materials may include, but are not limited to, tear resistant laminate sheet materials, such asWhich may comprise a layer of n-axis oriented film (e.g.)>) The film is biaxially oriented polyester, oriented nylon, cross-laminated polyolefin or high density polymerAn olefin. The orientation and cross-laminate structure of these materials contributes to the tear resistance characteristics. Moreover, tear resistance can be attributed to the chemical nature of the tear resistant material, such as extruded metallocene catalyzed polyethylene (mPE).

Alternatively, the tear resistant layer may be a Linear Low Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) layer. In embodiments using Linear Low Density Polyethylene (LLDPE) or mPE, 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 a polyolefin material, such as Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE). An adhesive layer may be placed between the substrate and the tear-resistant layer to secure the tear-resistant layer to the substrate.

It will be appreciated that various modifications may be made within the scope of the invention. For example, the size and shape of the panels and apertures may be adjusted to accommodate articles of different sizes or shapes. The shoulder panels may be omitted. The invention is not limited to top-engaging type cartons and the invention may be employed with other carton types such as, but not limited to, open top crates, capped or closed top crates. In various embodiments, the separator device may be readily adapted to apply blanks to groups of articles B, and similarly, the applicator device may be readily adapted to separate a plurality of connected article carriers.

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 limit the respective panels to such orientations, but may only be used to distinguish the panels from one another.

As used herein, the terms "hinge connection" and "fold line" refer to various lines that define the hinge features of the blank, facilitate folding of portions of the blank relative to one another, or otherwise indicate the optimal panel folding position of the blank. Any reference to "hinged connection" should not be construed as necessarily referring to only a single fold line; in practice, the hinged connection can be formed by two or more fold lines, wherein the shape of each of the two or more fold lines can be either straight/linear or curved/curvilinear. When the linear fold lines form a hinged connection, they may be arranged parallel to each other or slightly angled with respect to each other. When the fold lines of the curves form the hinge connection, they may intersect each other to define a shaped panel in the area enclosed by the fold lines of the curves. Typical examples of such hinged connections may include a pair of arcuate or arched fold lines that intersect at two points such that they define an oval panel therebetween. The hinged connection may be formed by one or more linear fold lines and one or more curvilinear fold lines. Typical examples of such hinged connections may include a combination of linear fold lines and arcuate or arched fold lines that intersect at two points such that they define a half-moon panel therebetween.

As used herein, the term "polyline" may refer to one of the following: score lines, relief lines, recessed lines, a line of perforations, a line of short slits, a line of half cuts, a single half cut, interrupted cut lines, a line of aligned slits, a line of scores, and any combination of the foregoing.

It should be appreciated that the hinge connection and fold line can each include elements formed in the base panel of the blank, including perforations, a row of short slits, a row of half cuts, a single half cut, a cut line, a broken cut line, a slit, a score, a relief line, a recessed line, any combination thereof, and the like. These elements can be sized and arranged to provide the desired function. For example, a row of perforations can be sized or designed with a weakness to define a fold line and/or a split line. The row of perforations can be designed to facilitate folding and resist breakage, to facilitate folding and to facilitate breaking with more effort, or to facilitate breaking with less effort.

As used herein, the phrase "aligned with" refers to the alignment of two or more elements in an erected carton (such as an aperture formed in a first of two stacked panels and a second aperture formed in a second of two stacked 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 is "aligned" with a second aperture in a second panel (which is placed in a stacked 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 with the second aperture in a thickness direction of the first and second panels.

Claims (84)

1. An article engaging carrier for packaging at least one article, the carrier comprising a main panel having at least one article retaining structure for engaging an article, the carrier comprising at least one panel having a peripheral edge, a portion of the peripheral edge providing at least one alignment edge shaped to inhibit movement in two orthogonal directions when engaged by a reference device of a packaging apparatus.

2. The article carrier of claim 1, comprising a side panel hingedly connected to the main panel by a hinged connection.

3. The article carrier of claim 2, wherein the at least one alignment Bian Yuanyou is provided by a peripheral edge portion of the side panel.

4. The article carrier of claim 3, wherein the at least one alignment edge comprises a front alignment edge and a rear alignment edge.

5. The article carrier of claim 1, comprising a cover panel hingedly connected to the side panel by a hinged connection.

6. The item carrier of claim 4, wherein the at least one alignment Bian Yuanyou is provided by a peripheral edge portion of the cover panel.

7. The article carrier of claim 6, wherein the at least one alignment edge comprises a front alignment edge and a rear alignment edge.

8. The article carrier of claim 1, comprising a pair of opposing side panels, each side panel being hingedly connected to the main panel by a hinge connection and comprising at least one alignment edge.

9. The article carrier of claim 8, wherein the at least one alignment edge comprises a front alignment edge and a rear alignment edge.

10. The article carrier of claim 1, comprising: a pair of opposed side panels, each side panel being hingedly connected to the main panel by a hinge connection; a cover panel hingedly connected to each of the pair of opposing side panels and including at least one alignment edge.

11. The article carrier of claim 10, wherein the at least one alignment edge comprises a front alignment edge and a rear alignment edge.

12. The article carrier of claim 1, comprising a pair of opposing end panels, each end panel being hingedly connected to the main panel by a hinge connection.

13. The article carrier of claim 1, wherein the panel having a peripheral edge portion providing at least one alignment edge is hingedly connected to the main panel by a hinged connection.

14. The article carrier of claim 1, wherein the panel having a peripheral edge portion providing at least one alignment edge is hingedly connected to the main panel by at least one hinged panel.

15. The article carrier of claim 1, wherein the at least one panel comprises a pair of panels, each panel having an aligned edge, a linear imaginary line passing through the aligned edge in each of a pair of panels passing through an opening in the main panel defined by the at least one article retention feature.

16. The article carrier of claim 1, wherein the main panel comprises at least one stabilizing device providing an opening in the main panel and configured to inhibit movement in two orthogonal directions.

17. An apparatus for packaging one or more articles in an article carrier, the apparatus comprising an article engaging tool for engaging an article and transporting the article in a downstream direction, wherein the article engaging tool comprises a reference device for aligning at least one blank with one or more articles.

18. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the apparatus comprises an overhead conveyor for conveying the blanks onto the one or more articles.

19. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the reference device comprises an abutment pin extending upwardly from the article engagement tool beyond an upper end of the one or more articles.

20. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the article-engaging tool comprises a removable head, the reference device being mounted to the removable head.

21. The apparatus of claim 20, wherein the head comprises a portion of a tool-less attachment system.

22. The apparatus of claim 21, wherein the tool-less attachment system comprises a bayonet fitting.

23. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of article engaging tools, each article engaging tool for engaging a respective article, metering and grouping the articles, and conveying the articles in a downstream direction as at least one metering group.

24. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein each of the plurality of article engaging tools is independently driven about an endless track, the endless track having a working range and a return range.

25. The apparatus of claim 23, wherein the plurality of article-engaging tools comprises at least one preceding article-engaging tool and at least one following article-engaging tool.

26. The apparatus of claim 25, wherein the at least one preceding article-engaging tool is configured to engage a respective preceding aligned edge of the at least one blank.

27. The apparatus of claim 26, wherein the at least one subsequent article engaging tool is configured to engage a respective subsequent aligned edge of the at least one blank.

28. The apparatus of claim 19, wherein the abutment pin is shaped to provide at least two points of contact with an aligned edge of a blank to inhibit movement of the blank parallel to a flow direction of the blank through the apparatus and transverse to a flow direction of the blank through the apparatus.

29. The apparatus of claim 17, wherein the apparatus comprises an applicator for pressing the at least one blank onto the at least one set of articles, the applicator comprising a plurality of article receiving apertures, each article receiving aperture for receiving a respective article of the at least one set of articles formed by the apparatus.

30. The apparatus of claim 29, wherein the applicator comprises at least one stabilizing peg receivable in an opening of a stabilizing device provided in a main panel of the at least one blank, the at least one stabilizing peg configured to constrain movement of the at least one blank relative to the applicator.

31. The apparatus of claim 30, wherein at least one stabilizing peg prevents or inhibits movement of the at least one blank relative to the at least one group of articles in a direction parallel to a flow direction of the at least one blank through the apparatus and in a transverse direction perpendicular relative to a flow direction of the at least one blank through the apparatus.

32. The apparatus of claim 29 wherein the applicator is mounted to an overhead conveyor in the form of wheels such that the applicator applies the at least one blank to the at least one group of articles as the at least one group of articles is conveyed downstream by the plurality of article-engaging tools.

33. The apparatus of claim 30, wherein the applicator comprises one or more hemming machines for folding at least one panel hinged to the main panel at least partially around the at least one group of articles, the panel comprising at least one alignment edge configured to engage the reference device.

34. The apparatus of claim 30, comprising one or more static folding guides for folding one or more panels of the at least one blank when the applicator is engaged with the at least one blank.

35. A method of packaging a plurality of articles, the method comprising:

conveying a stream of articles through a packaging apparatus in a downstream direction;

engaging each article with an article engaging tool;

grouping into at least one group of articles; at the same time as the process is carried out,

applying at least one blank to an upper end of the article;

engaging at least one previously aligned edge of the blank with a reference pin mounted to a prior article engaging tool;

metering the at least one group of items; and

a reference pin mounted to the subsequent article engaging tool is engaged with at least one of the subsequent aligned edges of the at least one blank.

36. The apparatus of claim 30, wherein the method further comprises:

the at least one blank is applied to the at least one set of articles to engage each article in a respective article retention device provided in the main panel of the at least one blank.

37. The apparatus of claim 36, wherein applying the at least one blank to the at least one set of articles comprises:

before pressing the main panel onto the at least one set of articles, stabilizing pegs are inserted in openings of stabilizing devices provided in the main panel of the at least one blank.

38. The apparatus of claim 36, wherein applying the at least one blank to the at least one set of articles further comprises:

one or more panels are at least partially folded, the one or more panels being coupled to the main panel and including at least one of the front and rear aligned edges.

39. The apparatus of claim 38, wherein the one or more panels are folded prior to engaging the main panel with the at least one set of articles.

40. The apparatus of claim 38, wherein the one or more panels are folded while the main panel is engaged with the at least one set of articles.

41. The apparatus of claim 38, wherein the one or more panels are folded after engaging the main panel with the at least one set of articles.

42. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a main panel having at least one article retention feature for engaging an article, the blank comprising at least one panel having a peripheral edge, wherein a portion of the peripheral edge provides at least one alignment edge shaped to inhibit movement in two orthogonal directions when engaged by a reference device of a packaging apparatus.

43. An applicator device for separating a plurality of connected blanks into discrete blanks and pressing each blank onto two or more groups of articles, the applicator comprising: a plurality of article receiving apertures, each article receiving aperture for receiving a respective article; and a breaking device for breaking the frangible connection between adjacently disposed blanks.

44. The applicator device of claim 43, wherein the applicator comprises at least one stabilizing peg receivable in an opening of a stabilizing device provided in the main panel of each blank, the at least one stabilizing peg configured to constrain movement of the blank relative to the applicator.

45. The applicator device of claim 44, wherein the at least one stabilizing peg is removably mounted to a plate in which the article receiving aperture is disposed.

46. The applicator device of claim 45, wherein the at least one stabilizing peg is keyed to a given receiving location on the plate.

47. The applicator device of claim 45, wherein the at least one stabilizing peg is keyed to a given receiving orientation relative to the plate.

48. The applicator device of claim 43, wherein the applicator comprises a plate and at least one guide depending from the plate for holding the plurality of sets of articles in a predefined arrangement.

49. The applicator assembly of claim 43, wherein the disconnection assembly includes one or more blades mounted to a plate in which the article receiving aperture is disposed.

50. The applicator device of claim 49, wherein the one or more blades are removably mounted to the plate.

51. The applicator device of claim 50, wherein the one or more blades include at least one detent for engaging a catch located in a slot provided in the plate.

52. The applicator device of claim 50, wherein the plate includes one or more release openings for enabling release of the pawl from the clasp.

53. The applicator device of claim 50, wherein the plate includes a plurality of blade receiving locations and a plurality of blades that can be reconfigured into a desired arrangement to accommodate a connected blank of a given configuration.

54. A disconnect apparatus for separating a plurality of connected article carriers engaged with a plurality of groups of articles, the disconnect apparatus comprising: a plate having a plurality of article receiving apertures, each for receiving a respective article, and a plurality of blade receiving locations, each blade receiving location being capable of detachably mounting a disconnect blade for breaking frangible connections between adjacently disposed carriers; and a plurality of blades removably mounted to the plate, the plurality of blades being reconfigurable to a desired arrangement to accommodate a given configuration of connected carriers.

55. The disconnect device of claim 54, wherein the plurality of blades are mountable to the plate in a first arrangement to separate connected carriers of a first configuration and mountable to the plate in a second, different arrangement to separate connected carriers of a second, different configuration.

56. A plurality of connected blanks for forming a plurality of article carriers, each blank being frangibly connected to at least one adjacent blank by a frangible connection comprising at least one pair of connection notches, each blank comprising a joining panel having at least one article retention device for receiving and hanging articles therefrom, wherein a first article retention device in a first blank and a second article retention device in a second blank define an imaginary line passing through the centre of each of the first article retention device and the second article retention device, the imaginary line being perpendicular to the frangible connection between the first blank and the second blank, and wherein a pair of connection notches are provided on opposite sides of the imaginary line, the imaginary line defining a region of closest proximity between the first article retention device and the second article retention device.

57. An apparatus for packaging one or more articles in an article carrier, the apparatus comprising an article engaging tool for engaging an article and transporting the article in a downstream direction, wherein the article engaging tool comprises a reference device for aligning a plurality of connected blanks with two or more groups of articles.

58. The apparatus of claim 57, wherein the apparatus comprises an applicator for separating the plurality of connected blanks into discrete blanks and pressing each blank onto the two or more groups of articles, the applicator comprising: a plurality of article receiving apertures, each article receiving aperture for receiving a respective article; and a breaking device for breaking the frangible connection between adjacently disposed blanks.

59. The apparatus of claim 58, wherein the applicator comprises at least one stabilizing peg receivable in an opening of a stabilizing device provided in the main panel of each blank, the at least one stabilizing peg configured to constrain movement of the blank relative to the applicator.

60. The apparatus of claim 59, wherein the at least one stabilizing peg prevents or inhibits movement of the blank relative to the set of articles in a direction parallel to a flow direction of the blank through the apparatus and in a transverse direction perpendicular relative to a flow direction of the blank through the apparatus.

61. The apparatus of claim 58 wherein the applicator is mounted to an overhead conveyor in the form of wheels such that the applicator applies the blank to the plurality of groups of articles as the plurality of groups of articles are conveyed downstream by the plurality of article-engaging tools.

62. The apparatus of claim 57, wherein the apparatus comprises an overhead conveyor for conveying the plurality of connected blanks onto the one or more articles.

63. The apparatus of claim 57, wherein the reference device comprises an abutment pin extending upwardly from the article engagement tool beyond an upper extremity of the one or more articles.

64. The apparatus of claim 57 wherein the article-engaging tool comprises a removable head, the reference device being mounted to the removable head.

65. The apparatus of claim 57, wherein the apparatus comprises a plurality of article engaging tools, each article engaging tool for engaging a respective article, metering and grouping the articles, and conveying the articles as a metering group in a downstream direction.

66. The apparatus of claim 65 wherein the plurality of article-engaging tools includes at least one preceding article-engaging tool and at least one subsequent article-engaging tool.

67. The apparatus according to claim 66, wherein the at least one preceding article-engaging tool is configured to engage a respective preceding aligned edge of the plurality of connected blanks.

68. The apparatus of claim 67, wherein the at least one subsequent article engaging tool is configured to engage a respective subsequent aligned edge of the plurality of connected blanks.

69. A method of packaging a plurality of articles, the method comprising:

at least two groups of articles are formed,

applying a plurality of connected blanks to an upper end portion of the article;

engaging a reference pin with the plurality of connected blanks and aligning the plurality of connected blanks to the article;

lowering the applicator relative to the article and the plurality of connected blanks to insert stabilizing pins into openings in each of the blanks;

further lowering the applicator to cleave the frangible connection between adjacently disposed blanks;

contacting a plate of the applicator with each of the discrete blanks;

the applicator is further lowered to press the discrete blank over the upper end of the article and move the engagement tab upwardly out of the plane of the blank until the tab engages a flange around the upper end of the article.

70. A method of packaging a plurality of articles, the method comprising:

Conveying a stream of articles through a packaging apparatus in a downstream direction;

engaging each article with an article engaging tool;

grouping into groups of articles; at the same time as the process is carried out,

applying a plurality of connected blanks to an upper end portion of the article;

engaging at least one previously aligned edge of the blank with a reference pin mounted to a prior article engaging tool;

metering the plurality of groups of articles; and

a reference pin mounted to a subsequent article engagement tool is engaged with at least one subsequent aligned edge of the plurality of connected blanks.

71. The method of claim 70, wherein the method further comprises:

separating the plurality of connected blanks into discrete blanks and applying the discrete blanks to the plurality of groups of articles to engage each article in a respective article retention device disposed in the main panel of the blank.

72. The method of claim 71, wherein applying the blank to the plurality of sets of articles comprises:

before separating the plurality of connected blanks into discrete blanks, stabilizing pegs are inserted in openings of a stabilizing device provided in a main panel of at least one blank.

73. The method of claim 70, wherein the method further comprises:

applying the connected blanks to the plurality of groups of articles to engage each article in a respective article retention device provided in the main panel of each blank, thereby forming a plurality of connected article carriers;

separating the plurality of connected article carriers into discrete article carriers.

74. The method of claim 73, wherein separating the plurality of connected item carriers comprises:

before separating the plurality of connected article carriers into discrete article carriers, stabilizing pegs are inserted into openings of a stabilizing device disposed in a main panel of at least one article carrier.

75. A plurality of connected blanks for forming a plurality of article carriers, each blank being frangibly connected to at least one adjacent blank by a frangible connection, each blank of the plurality of connected blanks comprising a main panel having at least one article retention feature for engaging an article, the plurality of connected blanks comprising at least one panel having a peripheral edge, wherein a portion of the peripheral edge provides at least one alignment edge shaped to inhibit movement in two orthogonal directions when engaged by a reference device of a packaging apparatus.

76. A separator device for separating a plurality of connected article carriers into discrete article carriers, the separator comprising a breaking means for breaking frangible connections between adjacently arranged article carriers.

77. The separator apparatus of claim 76, wherein the separator comprises at least one stabilizing peg receivable in an opening of a stabilizing device provided in a main panel of each article carrier, the at least one stabilizing peg configured to constrain movement of the article carrier relative to the separator.

78. The separator apparatus of claim 76, wherein the separator comprises at least one guide for aligning the plurality of connected article carriers therewith.

79. The separator apparatus of claim 76, wherein the separator comprises a pair of opposed guides for aligning the plurality of connected article carriers therewith, the plurality of connected article carriers receivable between the pair of opposed guides.

80. The separator apparatus of claim 76, wherein the separator is mounted to an overhead conveyor and is transferred downstream through the operating range of the packaging machine in synchrony with the article carrier.

81. A blank for forming an article engaging carrier for packaging at least one article, the blank comprising a main panel having at least one article retaining structure for engaging an article, the main panel comprising at least one stabilizing device providing an opening in the main panel to inhibit movement of the blank in two orthogonal directions when the opening receives a stabilizing peg of an applicator for pressing the main panel onto the at least one article.

82. The blank of claim 81, wherein the blank further comprises at least one panel having a peripheral edge, a portion of the peripheral edge providing at least one alignment edge shaped to inhibit movement in two orthogonal directions when engaged by a reference device of a packaging apparatus.

83. The blank of claim 81, wherein the opening is defined by at least one tab stamped from the main panel and hingedly connected to the main panel.

84. The blank of claim 81, wherein the opening is non-circular in shape to inhibit rotational movement of the blank when the opening receives a stabilizing peg of an applicator having a non-circular cross-section.