JP2023511667A - Article upper engagement device, article carrier and blank for article carrier - Google Patents

Abstract

Aspects of the present disclosure relate to article top engagement devices, carriers for packaging one or more articles, and blanks for forming carriers. The article carrier includes an engagement panel having at least one upper receiving opening. The article top engagement device comprises at least four engagement members. The at least four engagement members comprise at least one pair of diametrically opposed engagement members. At least one of the at least four engagement members is hinged to the article carrier by a linear fold line. At least two of the at least four engagement members are hinged to the article carrier by respective non-linear fold lines.

Description

[Cross reference to related application]
This application claims the benefit of US Provisional Patent Application No. 62/964,467, filed January 22, 2020, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

The present invention relates to article top engagement devices, article carriers, and blanks for forming them. More specifically, but not exclusively, the present invention relates to a top grip-type carrier having one or more openings for receiving and holding articles therein.

In the field of packaging, it is known to provide cartons for carrying multiple items. Cartons are well known in the art and help consumers transport, store, and access groups of articles for consumption. Due to cost and environmental considerations, such cartons or carriers should be made from as little material as possible and waste of the material from which they are made should be minimized. A further consideration is the strength of the carton and its suitability for holding and transporting large quantities of items. The contents of the carton are preferably secured within the carton.

It is well known to provide a top grip article carrier having apertures formed in the panels of the carrier and tabs punched through said apertures. When an article is received in the opening, the tabs are displaced from the plane of the panel and the tabs generally engage the article around the article's flanges or lips.

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

A first aspect of the present invention provides an article top engagement device for an article carrier. The article carrier includes an engagement panel having at least one upper receiving opening. The article top engagement device comprises at least four engagement members. The at least four engagement members include at least a pair of diametrically opposed engagement members. At least one of the at least four engagement members is hinged to the article carrier by a linear fold line. At least two of the at least four engagement members are hinged to the article carrier by respective non-linear fold lines.

Optionally, at least one of the at least four engagement members is provided by a peripheral band portion of the engagement panel.

Optionally, at least one of the at least four engagement members is a first engagement member hinged to the carrier by a first linear fold line and hinged to the carrier by a second linear fold line. and a second engagement member.

Optionally, the second linear fold line is oriented perpendicular to the first fold line.

Optionally, at least two of the at least four engagement members are hinged to the carrier by a first non-linear fold line and a third engagement member hinged to the carrier by a second non-linear fold line. and a fourth engagement member.

Optionally, the first non-linear fold line comprises a first linear segment and the second non-linear fold line comprises a second linear segment.

Optionally, the first linear segment is oriented perpendicular to the second linear segment.

Optionally, at least two of the at least four engagement members comprise three engagement members hinged to the carrier by respective non-linear fold lines.

Optionally, each non-linear fold line comprises a linear segment.

Optionally, the first segment of the linear segments is oriented perpendicular to the second segment of the linear segments and the third segment of the linear segments is oriented perpendicular to the second segment of the linear segments be done.

Optionally, at least one upper receiving opening comprises at least two diametrically opposed linear edges.

Optionally, at least one upper receiving opening comprises at least one pair of diametrically opposed linear edges.

Optionally, at least one upper receiving opening comprises at least two pairs of diametrically opposed linear edges.

A second aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for packaging at least one article. The article carrier has a top panel including at least one top engagement device having at least one top receiving opening. The article upper engagement device consists of at least four engagement members. The at least four engagement members include at least a pair of diametrically opposed engagement members. At least one of the at least four engagement members is hinged to the article carrier by a linear fold line. At least two of the at least four engagement members are hinged to the article carrier by non-linear fold lines.

Optionally comprising a pair of opposing side walls hinged to the peripheral side portions of the top panel by a hinge connection.

Optionally, at least one of the at least four engagement members is provided by one of the peripheral side portions of the top panel.

Optionally comprising a pair of opposing end walls hinged to the peripheral edge of the top panel by a hinge connection.

Optionally, at least one of the at least four engagement members is provided by one of the peripheral edges of the top panel.

A third aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank has a main panel including at least one upper engagement device with at least one upper receiving opening. The article upper engagement device consists of at least four engagement members. The at least four engagement members comprise at least one pair of diametrically opposed engagement members. At least one of the at least four engagement members is hinged to the article carrier by a linear fold line. At least two of the at least four engagement members are hinged to the article carrier by non-linear fold lines.

Within the scope of this application, the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternatives set forth in the preceding paragraphs, claims, and/or the following description and drawings may independently or It is envisioned or intended that any combination of

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

Any feature, or combination of features, of an embodiment disclosed herein may be extracted separately from other features of that embodiment. Alternatively, a feature, or combination of features, of one embodiment may be omitted from that embodiment.

As used throughout this specification, the term "non-linear" refers to a curve, a series of two or more straight lines angled with respect to each other, or a series of one or more curves and angles with respect to each other. is defined to contain one or more straight lines

Exemplary embodiments of the invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

1 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a first embodiment; FIG. FIG. 2 is a top plan view of a portion of the blank of FIG. 1; 2 is a perspective view from above of a carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 1; FIG. FIG. 4 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a second embodiment; Figure 4 is a top perspective view of a carrier formed from the blank of Figure 3; FIG. 10 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carrier according to a third embodiment; Figure 6 is a top perspective view of a portion of a carrier formed from the blank of Figure 5;

Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of packages, blanks, and carriers are disclosed herein. It is understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of ways in which certain aspects of the invention may be implemented and do not represent an exhaustive list of all ways in which the invention may be implemented. let's be As used herein, the term "exemplary" is used broadly to refer to embodiments that serve as illustrations, specimens, models, or patterns. Indeed, it will be appreciated that the packages, blanks, and carriers described herein may be embodied in various alternative forms. The figures are not necessarily to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show detail of specific components. Well-known components, materials or methods have not necessarily been described in detail to avoid obscuring the present disclosure. Specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be construed as limiting but merely as a basis for the claims and the teachings of those skilled in the art to variously use the invention. should be construed as a representative basis for teaching the

Referring to FIG. 1, as shown in FIG. 2, a plane of a blank 10 capable of forming a carton or carrier 90 for containing and transporting a group of primary products such as bottles or cans, hereinafter referred to as Goods B A diagram is shown. Blank 10 forms a secondary package for packing at least one primary product container or package. Alternative blanks 110, 210 for forming cartons or carriers 190; 290 as shown in FIGS. 4 and 6 are shown in FIGS.

In the embodiments detailed herein, the terms "carton" and "carrier" are used for the non-limiting purposes of describing various features of the present invention to engage articles such as primary product containers. and containers for transportation. It is contemplated that the teachings of the present invention may be applied to a variety of product containers that may or may not be tapered and/or cylindrical. Exemplary containers include bottles (eg, metal, glass or plastic bottles), cans (eg, aluminum cans), TIN cans, pouches, packets, and the like.

Blanks 10, 110, 210 are formed from sheets of a suitable substrate. It should be understood that the term "suitable substrate" as used herein can include any type of collapsible sheet material such as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, and the like. be. It should be appreciated that one or other number of blanks may be used and where appropriate carrier structures may be provided, for example as described in more detail below.

The package structure or carton described herein may be formed from a sheet material, such as paperboard, which may be made of or coated with materials for added strength. An example of such a sheet material is the WestRock Company's tear resistant NATRALOCK® paperboard. Note that the tear resistant material may be provided by multiple layers to help improve the tear resistance of the package. Generally, one side of the sheet material can have different properties than the other side. For example, the surface of the sheet material facing outward from the finished package may be particularly smooth and have a coating such as a clay coating or other surface treatment to provide good printability. On the other hand, the surface of the sheet material facing inward is coated, layered, treated, or otherwise provided with one or more tear resistance, good adhesion, heat sealability, or other desirable functional properties. can be arranged to provide properties such as

210 are configured to form a carton or carrier 90; 190; 290 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles B, in the illustrated embodiment. In the embodiment shown in Figures 1-4, the arrangement is a 4x2 matrix or array, in the embodiment four columns of two items are provided and item B is a beverage can. In the embodiment shown in Figure 5, the arrangement is a 3x2 matrix or array, and in the embodiment three columns of two items are provided, item B being a beverage can. Alternatively, the blanks 10, 110, 210 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.

FIG. 1 shows a first embodiment and shows a blank 10 for forming the carrier 90 shown in FIG. Carrier 90 takes the form of an upper grip clip or carrier. Blank 10 includes a main panel 12 forming the top panel of carrier 90 .

Top panel 12 includes a pair of peripheral portions 18 , 20 extending longitudinally along opposite sides of top panel 12 . A first peripheral portion 18 is partially defined by a first longitudinal fold line 17 . A second peripheral portion 20 is partially defined by a second longitudinal fold line 19 .

A first side panel 22 is hinged to the first side of the main panel 12 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 21 . A second side panel 24 is hinged to the second side of the main panel 12 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 23 .

A first side panel 22 is hingedly connected to the first peripheral portion 18 of the main panel 12 . A second side panel 24 is hingedly connected to the second peripheral portion 20 of the main panel 12 .

The first peripheral portion 18 provides at least one engagement member T1, T5 (see FIG. 1B) and may take the form of beveled or angled panels when the carrier blank is applied to a group of articles. In the embodiment of FIG. 1, the first peripheral portion 18 provides four engagement members T1, T5. When the blank of FIG. 1 is applied to a group of articles, the first peripheral portion 18 has engaging members T1, T5 for engaging edges E1, E5 to engage, for example, the underside of a can top chime. is inclined downward toward the folding line 21 so as to be the upper end of the .

The second peripheral portion 20 provides at least one engagement member and may take the form of a beveled panel. In the embodiment of Figure 1, the second peripheral portion 20 provides four engagement members.

The blank is provided with first end straps 28A/26a/14/26B/28B. A first end strap 28A/26a/14/26B/28B comprises a first end panel 14. As shown in FIG. First corner panel 26A is hinged to the first end of first end panel 14 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 25A. A first fixed panel 28A is hinged to the end of the first corner panel 26A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 27A.

A second corner panel 26B is hinged to the second end of the first end panel 14 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 25B. A second fixed panel 28B is hinged to the end of the second corner panel 26B by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 27B.

A first end panel 14 is hinged to the first end of the main panel 12 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 13 . A first end panel 14 is hingedly connected to a first peripheral portion of the top panel 12 that extends laterally across the top panel 12 . The first peripheral portion extends between a pair of side peripheral portions 18,20. The first peripheral portion provides two engagement members T2.

The first corner panel 26A is separated from the main panel 12, particularly the first peripheral portion 18, by a cutout or recess.

The second corner panel 26B is separated from the main panel 12, particularly the second peripheral portion 20, by a cutout or recess.

A first end strap 28A/26a/14/26B/28B forms a first end wall of carrier 90. As shown in FIG.

The blank is provided with second end straps 32A/30A/16/30B/32B. A second end strap 32A/30A/16/30B/32B comprises a second end panel 16. As shown in FIG. A third fixed panel 32A is hinged to the end of the third corner panel 30A by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 31A.

A fourth corner panel 30B is hinged to the second end of the second end panel 16 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 29B. A fourth fixed panel 32B is hinged to the end of the fourth corner panel 30B by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 31B.

A second end panel 16 is hinged to the second end of the main panel 12 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 15 . A second end panel 16 is hinged to a second peripheral edge of the top panel 12 that extends laterally across the top panel 12 . The second peripheral edge extends between the pair of side peripheral portions 18,20. A second peripheral edge provides two engagement members.

The third corner panel 30A is separated from the main panel 12, particularly the first peripheral portion 18, by a cutout or recess.

The fourth corner panel 30B is separated from the main panel 12, particularly the second peripheral portion 20, by a cutout or recess.

A second end strap 32A/30A/16/30B/32B forms a second end wall of carrier 90. FIG.

The main panel 12 has a plurality of openings A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8. The openings form part of article holding structures RT1, RT2 including areas of the main panel 12 surrounding each of the openings A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8.

The article holding structures RT1, RT2 include a first pair of end article holding structures and a second pair of end article holding structures. A first pair of end article retention structures are provided on the main panel 12 adjacent the first end straps 28A/26a/14/26B/28B. A first peripheral edge of the top panel 12 is positioned between the fold line 13 and the first pair of scrap retaining structures. A second pair of offcut retention structures are provided on the main panel 12 adjacent the second end straps 32A/30A/16/30B/32B. A second peripheral edge of the top panel 12 is positioned between the fold line 15 and the second pair of scrap retaining structures.

Four intermediate article retaining structures are stamped from the main panel 12 and positioned between the first pair of end article retaining structures and the second pair of end article retaining structures.

Each of the article holding structures RT1, RT2 comprises four engagement members T1/T2/T3/T4, T5/T6/T7/T8.

Each end article retention structure is substantially identical in construction and is described in further detail by referring to the first end retention structure RT1 shown in FIG. 1B.

The first end retaining structure RT1 comprises a first engaging member T1 provided by a portion of the first peripheral portion 18 of the main panel 12. As shown in FIG. First engagement member T1 includes a first engagement edge E1 for engaging article B when received in opening A1. The first engagement member T1 is hinged to the blank 10 by a linear fold line provided by a portion of the fold line 21. FIG.

The first edge retaining structure RT1 comprises a second engaging member T2 provided by a portion of the first peripheral edge of the main panel 12. As shown in FIG. Second engagement member T2 includes a second engagement edge E2 for engaging article B when received in opening A1. Second engagement member T2 may be at least partially defined by fold lines 46a/46b. Fold lines 46a/46b are non-linear. The fold lines 46a/46b may be partially defined by two or more linear fold line elements 46a, 46b. The second engaging member T2 may be partially defined by a portion of the fold line 13. As shown in FIG. Fold lines 46a/13/46b are non-linear.

In some embodiments, the fold line that hinges the second engagement member T2 to the blank 10 is formed by two or more linear elements arranged divergently with respect to each other. The fold line may be concave when viewed from the second engagement edge E2. In some embodiments, the fold lines can be curved or arcuate. The folding line includes a plurality of linear elements that approximate curves or arcs, and the folding line when folded adopts a curved shape as indicated by the phantom line or conceptual line (one-dot chain line) in FIG. obtain.

The first end retaining structure RT1 comprises a third engaging element T3 provided by a portion of the inner portion of the main panel 12. As shown in FIG. Third engagement element T3 has a third engagement edge E3 for engaging article B when received in opening A1. The third engagement element T3 is arranged on the opposite side of the first engagement member T1.

The third engagement element T3 may be at least partially defined by fold lines 42a/42b/42c. Fold lines 42a/42b/42c are non-linear. The fold line 42a/42b/42c may be partially defined by two or more linear fold line elements 42a, 42b, 42c. In the illustrated embodiment, the fold lines 42a/42b/42c include three linear fold line elements 42a, 42b, 42c. One of the linear fold line elements 42c may be defined by a portion of the longitudinally extending fold line 40a/40b.

The linear fold line elements 42a, 42b, 42c of the third engagement element T3 are arranged diverging with respect to each other. Fold lines 42a/42b/42c may be concave when viewed from third engagement edge E3. In some embodiments, the fold lines 42a/42b/42c may be curved or arcuate. The fold lines 42a/42b/42c include a plurality of linear elements 42a, 42b, 42c that approximate curves or arcs, and the fold lines 42a/42b/42c when folded may adopt a curved shape.

The first end retaining structure RT1 includes a fourth engagement element T4 provided by a portion of the main panel 12 located between the pair of article receiving openings A1, A3. The fourth engagement element T4 has a fourth engagement edge E4 for engaging article B when received in opening A1. The fourth engagement element T4 is arranged on the opposite side of the second engagement member T2.

The fourth engagement element T4 may be at least partially defined by fold lines 48a/48b/48c. Fold lines 48a/48b/48c are non-linear. The fold line 48a/48b/48c may be partially defined by two or more linear fold line elements 48a, 48b, 48c. In the illustrated embodiment, fold line 48a/48b/48c includes three linear fold line elements 48a, 48b, 48c. One of the linear fold line elements 48c may be defined by a portion of the laterally extending fold lines 54a/54b.

The linear fold line elements 48a, 48b, 48c of the fourth engagement element T4 are arranged diverging with respect to each other. Fold lines 48a/48b/48c may be concave when viewed from fourth engagement edge E4. In some embodiments, the fold lines 48a/48b/48c may be curved or arcuate. Fold lines 48a/48b/48c include a plurality of linear elements 48a, 48b, 48c that approximate curves or arcs, and when folded, fold lines 48a/48b/48c may adopt a curved shape.

Each of the intermediate article holding structures are substantially identical in construction and are described in further detail with reference to the first intermediate holding structure RT2 shown in FIG. 1B.

The first intermediate retaining structure RT2 comprises a first engaging member T5 provided by a portion of the first peripheral portion 18 of the main panel 12. As shown in FIG. First engagement member T1 includes a first engagement edge E5 for engaging article B when received in opening A3. The first engagement member T5 is hinged to the blank 10 by a linear fold line provided by a portion of the fold line 21. FIG.

The first intermediate retaining structure RT2 includes a second engaging member T6 provided by a portion of the main panel 12 located between the pair of article receiving openings A1, A3. The second engagement member T6 has a second engagement edge E6 for engaging article B when received in opening A3. Second engagement member T6 may be at least partially defined by fold lines 50a/50b. Fold lines 50a/50b are non-linear. The fold line 50a/50b may be partially defined by two or more linear fold line elements 50a, 50b. The second engagement member T6 may be partially defined by a fold line element 48c that hinges the fourth engagement element T4 of the first end retaining structure RT1 to the blank 10. As shown in FIG. Fold lines 50a/48c/50b are non-linear. The second engaging member T6 of the first intermediate retaining structure RT2 and the fourth engaging element T4 of the first end retaining structure RT1 may share a common fold line 48c. This has the effect of hingedly connecting the intermediate or inner portion of the second engaging member T6 of the first intermediate retaining structure RT2 and the fourth engaging element T4 of the first end retaining structure RT1 to each other. have. In other embodiments, the second engaging member T6 of the first intermediate retaining structure RT2 and the fourth engaging element T4 of the first end retaining structure RT1 may be spaced apart from each other.

In some embodiments, the fold line that hinges the second engagement member T6 to the blank 10 is formed by two or more linear elements arranged divergently with respect to each other. The fold line may be concave when viewed from the second engagement edge E6. In some embodiments, the fold lines can be curved or arcuate. The fold line may include a plurality of linear elements that approximate curves or arcs, and the fold line when folded may adopt a curved shape.

The first intermediate retaining structure RT2 comprises a third engaging element T7 provided by a portion of the inner portion of the main panel 12. As shown in FIG. Third engagement element T7 includes a third engagement edge E7 for engaging article B when received in opening A3. The third engagement element T7 is arranged on the opposite side of the first engagement member T5.

The third engagement element T7 may be at least partially defined by the fold lines 44a/44b/44c. Fold lines 44a/44b/44c are non-linear. The fold line 44a/44b/44c may be partially defined by two or more linear fold line elements 44a, 44b, 44c. In the illustrated embodiment, fold line 44a/44b/44c includes three linear fold line elements 44a, 44b, 44c. One of the linear fold line elements 44c may be defined by a portion of the longitudinally extending fold line 40c/40d.

The linear fold line elements 44a, 44b, 44c of the third engagement element T7 are arranged diverging with respect to each other. Fold lines 44a/44b/44c may be concave when viewed from third engagement edge E7. In some embodiments, fold lines 44a/44b/44c may be curved or arcuate. Fold lines 44a/44b/44c include a plurality of linear elements 44a, 44b, 44c that approximate curves or arcs, and fold lines 44a/44b/44c may adopt a curved shape when folded.

The first intermediate retaining structure RT2 includes a fourth engagement element T8 provided by a portion of the main panel 12 located between the pair of article receiving openings A3, A5. The fourth engagement element T8 has a fourth engagement edge E8 for engaging article B when received in opening A3. The fourth engagement element T8 is arranged on the opposite side of the second engagement member T6.

The fourth engagement element T8 may be at least partially defined by fold lines 52a/52b/52c. Fold lines 52a/52b/52c are non-linear. The fold line 52a/52b/52c may be partially defined by two or more linear fold line elements 52a, 52b, 52c. In the illustrated embodiment, fold line 52a/52b/52c includes three linear fold line elements 52a, 52b, 52c. One of the linear fold line elements 52c may be defined by a portion of the laterally extending fold line 56a/56b.

The linear fold line elements 52a, 52b, 52c of the fourth engagement element T8 are arranged diverging with respect to each other. Fold lines 52a/52b/52c may be concave when viewed from fourth engagement edge E8. In some embodiments, the fold lines 52a/52b/52c may be curved or arcuate. Fold lines 52a/52b/52c include a plurality of linear elements 52a, 52b, 52c that approximate curves or arcs, and fold lines 52a/52b/52c may adopt a curved shape when folded.

The third engagement members T3 of the first end retaining structure RT1 may be arranged in a back-to-back relationship with the engagement members of the end retaining structures in adjacent columns of retaining structures. The third engagement member T3 is partially defined by the fold line element 42c. End retention engagement members in adjacent columns may be defined by fold lines and share a common fold line element 42c. In other embodiments, the engagement members may be spaced apart from each other and defined by separate fold line elements. A common fold line element 42c may be positioned inside between the openings A1, A2.

Optional longitudinal fold lines 40a, 40b may extend longitudinally between the first end retaining structure RT1 and adjacent end retaining structures in adjacent columns. Fold lines 40a, 40b may be collinear with a common fold line element 42c. Fold lines 40a, 40b may bisect the area of the blank between openings A1, A2. That is, it is arranged between the openings A1 and A2.

The third engaging members T7 of the first intermediate retaining structure RT2 may be arranged in a back-to-back relationship with the engaging members of adjacent end retaining structures in columns of adjacently disposed retaining structures. . The third engagement member T7 is partially defined by the fold line element 44c. End retention engagement members in adjacent columns may be defined by fold lines and share a common fold line element 44c. In other embodiments, the engagement members may be spaced apart from each other and defined by separate fold line elements. A common fold line element 44c may be positioned inside between the openings A3, A4.

Optional longitudinal fold lines 40c, 40c may extend longitudinally between the first intermediate retaining structure RT2 and adjacent intermediate retaining structures in adjacent columns. Fold lines 40c, 40c may be collinear with common fold line element 44c. Fold lines 40c, 40d may bisect the area of the blank between apertures A3, A4. That is, it is arranged between the openings A3 and A4.

In some embodiments, fold line elements or segments 46a, 46b, 42a, 42b, 48a, 48b, 44a, 44b, 50a, 50b, 52a, 52b may be non-linear in shape. The fold line elements or segments 46a, 46b, 42a, 42b, 48a, 48b, 44a, 44b, 50a, 50b, 52a, 52b may be curved or arcuate. The fold line elements or segments 46a, 46b, 42a, 42b, 48a, 48b, 44a, 44b, 50a, 50b, 52a, 52b may be formed from two or linear portions arranged diverging from each other. In such embodiments, the nonlinear fold lines 46a/13/46b, 42a/42c/42b, 48a/48c/48b, 50a/48c/48b, 44a/44c/44b, 52a/52c/52b are each: Includes straight or linear segments 13, 42c, 48c, 44c, 52c.

Non-linear fold lines 46a/13/46b, 42a/42c/42b, 48a/48c/48b, 50a/48c/48b, 44a/44c/44b, 52a/52c/52b that hinge the engagement members to the main panel 12 is continuous or uninterrupted.

Fold line elements 42b, 48b, 50b, 44a are one of the star-shaped regions located between groups of four apertures A1, A2, A3, A4 arranged to form a 2×2 matrix or array. Define the part. The star-shaped area is centrally located between the four apertures A1, A2, A3, A4.

Optional fold lines 40a/40b, 54a/54b, 40c/40d may pass through each one of the vertices of the star-shaped points. Portions 40a, 54a, 40d at fold lines 40a/40b, 54a/54b, 40c/40d may be positioned within the star-shaped region. Portions 40b, 54a, 40c at fold lines 40a/40b, 54a/54b, 40c/40d may be positioned outside the star-shaped region.

Apertures A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8 may be polygonal in shape. Apertures A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8 may be quadrilateral, square, or rectangular. Apertures A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8 can be hexagonal or octagonal.

In the exemplary embodiment, the apertures A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8 are substantially square shaped. The corners of apertures A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8 are rounded or filleted, in other embodiments the corners may be chamfered. In some embodiments, apertures A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8 can take the shape of a square ring. In other embodiments, the apertures A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8 take the shape of a truncated circle.

Each of the apertures A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8 includes a first pair of opposed linear edges and a second pair of opposed linear edges. The second pair of edges may be oriented perpendicular to the first pair of edges.

Each of the apertures A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8 of the blank is back-to-back with the engaging element of the adjacently arranged aperture A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8. with at least two engagement elements T3, T4, T6, T7, T8 arranged in the .

The intermediate retaining structure RT2 includes three engagement elements T6, T7, T8, each of which is associated with an adjacently arranged opening A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8. are placed back to back.

The end retaining structure RT1 includes two engaging elements T3, T4, each of which is associated with an adjacently arranged opening A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8. They are placed back to back.

Each of the apertures A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8 are at least partially non-linear fold lines 46a/13/46b, 42a/42c/42b, 48a/48c/48b, 50a/48c/ It includes at least two engagement elements T3, T4, T6, T7, T8 defined by 48b, 44a/44c/44b, 52a/52c/52b. The nonlinear fold lines 46a/13/46b, 42a/42c/42b, 48a/48c/48b, 50a/48c/48b, 44a/44c/44b, 52a/52c/52b are straight or linear segments 13, 42c, respectively. , 48c, 44c, 52c. A first one of the at least two engagement elements T3, T4, T6, T7, T8 comprises a first linear segment 13, 42c, 48c, 44c, 52c, the at least two engagement elements T3, T4, T6 , T7, T8 includes a second linear segment 13, 42c, 48c, 44c, 52c. The second linear segments are arranged substantially perpendicular to the first linear segments 13, 42c, 48c, 44c, 52c.

Intermediate retaining structure RT2 includes three linear segments 48c, 44c, 52c each disposed generally perpendicular to an adjacent one of the three linear segments 48c, 44c, 52c.

The end retaining structure RT1 includes two linear segments 13, 42c arranged substantially perpendicular to each other.

As shown in FIG. 1, an adhesive or other bonding treatment G is applied to the first side panel 22, second side panel 24, first fastening panel 28A, second fastening panel 28B, third fastening panel 28A, second fastening panel 28B, and third fastening panel 28B. It can be applied to panel 32A and fourth fixed panel 32B. Adhesives or adhesive treatments G1 may include temporary adhesives and the like, and adhesives or other adhesive treatments G2 may include hot melt adhesives and the like. An adhesive or adhesive treatment G1 is applied to the longitudinally inner portion of the first side panel 22 and the longitudinally inner portion of the second side panel 24, while an adhesive or adhesive treatment G2 is applied to the first side panel 22 and longitudinally inner portion of the second side panel 24. It can be applied to the longitudinally outer portion of the side panel 22 and the longitudinally outer portion of the second side panel 24 . An adhesive or bonding treatment G1 may also be applied to first fastening panel 28A, second fastening panel 28B, third fastening panel 32A, and fourth fastening panel 32B.

Adhesive G1 may help secure the side panels and securing panels to article B. An example of a particular temporary adhesive is Swift® Melt 7044 manufactured by HB Fuller. The use of temporary adhesives is optional. An advantage of temporary adhesives is that they tend to remain attached to the carrier when the article is removed from the carrier, which may be preferable to having the adhesive remain attached to the article. In alternate embodiments, other adhesives such as, but not limited to, hot melt adhesives may also be used.

3 and 4, additional embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. In the illustrated second embodiment, the prefix "100" has been added to indicate those features belonging to the second embodiment, since like numerals indicate like parts where possible. used for Since the additional embodiment shares many common features with the first embodiment, only the differences from the embodiment shown in Figures 1 and 2 will be described in detail.

FIG. 3 shows a second embodiment, showing a blank 110 for forming a carrier 190, as shown in FIG. Carrier 190 takes the form of an upper grip clip or carrier. Blank 110 includes a main panel 112 that forms the top panel of carrier 190 .

Top panel 112 includes a pair of peripheral portions 118 , 120 extending longitudinally along opposite sides of top panel 112 . A first peripheral portion 118 is partially defined by a first longitudinal fold line 117 . A second peripheral portion 120 is defined in part by a second longitudinal fold line 119 .

A first side panel 122 is hinged to the first side of the main panel 112 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 121 . A second side panel 124 is hinged to the second side of the main panel 112 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 123 .

A first side panel 122 is hingedly connected to the first peripheral portion 118 of the main panel 112 . A second side panel 124 is hingedly connected to the second peripheral portion 120 of the main panel 112 .

The main panel 112 has a plurality of openings A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8. The apertures form part of the article holding structure including the areas of the main panel 112 surrounding each of the apertures A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8. The article holding structures include a first pair of end article holding structures and a second pair of end article holding structures. A first pair of end article retention structures are provided on the main panel 112 adjacent the first end straps 128A/126a/114/126B/128B. A first peripheral edge of the top panel 112 is positioned between the fold line 113 and the first pair of edge article retaining structures. A second pair of end article retention structures are provided on the main panel 112 adjacent the second end straps 132A/130A/116/130B/132B. A second marginal edge of top panel 112 is positioned between fold line 115 and a second pair of edge article retaining structures.

Four intermediate article retaining structures are stamped from the main panel 112 and positioned between the first pair of end article retaining structures and the second pair of end article retaining structures.

In the embodiment of FIG. 3, each of the apertures A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8 includes a pair of opposing linear edges E1, E3 and a pair of opposing concave edges E2, E4. . Concave edges E2, E4 are substantially perpendicular to linear edges E1, E3. Linear edges E 1 , E 3 extend substantially longitudinally along blank 110 . Concave edges E2, E4 generally extend laterally across blank 110. As shown in FIG.

Each end retaining structure comprises four engaging elements each having an engaging edge E1, E2, E3, E4. The end retaining structures each comprise a pair of opposed linear engagement edges E1, E3. The end retaining structures each include a pair of opposing concave engaging edges E2, E4.

In the embodiment of FIG. 3, the fold line segments 46a, 46b are omitted from the end retention structure. A second engagement element is hinged to carrier 190 by linear fold line 115 and is provided by a portion of the first peripheral edge of main panel 12 .

The embodiment of Figure 3 comprises a retaining structure having two engaging elements hinged to carrier 190 or blank 110 by a linear fold line.

In the embodiment of FIG. 3, the longitudinal fold lines 40a/40b, 40c/40d are omitted.

In the embodiment of FIG. 3, the transversely extending fold lines 50a/50b, 54c/54d, 56a/56b are omitted.

Top engagement panel 112 (also referred to herein as top or main panel 112) includes a main portion and a peripheral portion that surrounds or circumscribes the main portion. The peripheral portion includes a pair of side peripheral strips or bands 118,120 and a pair of end peripheral strips or bands 106,108. The top panel 112 has a plurality of top receiving openings A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8 for receiving the top of a generally cylindrical article B, respectively. Each opening A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8 has a plurality of engaging edges disposed along the perimeter of the opening A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8. It has E1, E2, E3, E4. Each engagement edge E1, E2, E3, E4, E5, E6, E7, E8 is adapted to bear at least a portion of the load of the respective article B. The plurality of engaging edges E1, E2, E3, E4, E5, E6, E7, E8 includes at least a first pair of diametrically opposed edges E2/E4, E6/E8, E1/E3, E5/E7 and Contains the second pair.

At least one E4, E6, E8 in the first diametrically opposed pair E2/E4, E6/E8 is formed from a major portion of the top panel 112 and includes non-linear fold lines 148a/148c/148b, 150a/148c/ 148b, hinged thereto by 152a/152c/152b.

The other E6 in the first pair E6/E8 is provided by a hinge element T6 formed from the main portion of the upper engagement panel 112 and hinged thereto by non-linear fold lines 150a/148c/148b. ing.

The other E2 in the first pair E2/E4 is connected by one of the end perimeter strips 106, 108 hinged to the end panels 114, 116 of the carrier 190 by linear fold lines 113, 115, respectively. can be provided.

One E3, E7 in the second diametrically opposed pair E1/E3, E5/E7 is provided by a hinge element T3, T7 formed from the main portion of the top panel 112 to form a non-linear fold line 142a/142c/142b, It is hinged to it by 144a/144c/144b.

Another E1, E5 in the second pair E1/E3, E5/E7 is provided by one of the side perimeter strips 118, 120 hinged to the side panels 122, 124 by linear fold lines 121, 123 respectively. It is

The first pair of engaging edges E2, E4, E6, E8 may be curved while the second pair of engaging edges E1, E3; E5, E7 may be straight. Side peripheral strips 118, 120 may be hinged to the main portion by fold lines 117, 119, respectively. Each fold line 117, 119 can be interrupted by an aperture A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8.

5 and 6, additional embodiments of the present disclosure are shown. In the illustrated third embodiment, the prefix "200" has been added to indicate those features belonging to the third embodiment, since like numerals indicate like parts where possible. used for Since the additional embodiments share many common features with the first and second embodiments, only the differences from the embodiments shown in Figures 1-4 will be described in detail.

Referring now to FIG. 5, a third embodiment is shown showing blank 210 for forming carrier 290 shown in FIG. Carrier 290 takes the form of an upper grip clip or carrier. Blank 210 includes a main panel 212 that forms the top panel of carrier 290 .

Top panel 212 includes a pair of peripheral portions 218 , 220 that extend longitudinally along opposite sides of top panel 212 . A first peripheral portion 218 is partially defined by a first longitudinal fold line 217 . A second peripheral portion 220 is partially defined by a second longitudinal fold line 219 .

A first side panel 222 is hinged to the first side of the main panel 212 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 221 . A second side panel 224 is hinged to the second side of the main panel 212 by a hinge connection in the form of fold line 223 .

A first side panel 222 is hingedly connected to the first peripheral portion 218 of the main panel 212 . A second side panel 224 is hingedly connected to the second peripheral portion 220 of the main panel 212 .

The main panel 212 has a plurality of apertures A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8. The openings form part of the article holding structure including areas of the main panel 212 surrounding each of the openings A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8. The article holding structures include a first pair of end article holding structures and a second pair of end article holding structures. A first pair of end article retention structures are provided on the main panel 212 adjacent the first end straps 228A/226a/214/226B/228B. A first peripheral edge of top panel 212 is positioned between fold line 213 and the first pair of edge article retaining structures. A second pair of end article retention structures are provided on the main panel 212 adjacent the second end straps 232A/230A/216/230B/232B. A second peripheral edge of top panel 212 is positioned between fold line 215 and a second pair of edge article retaining structures.

Two intermediate article retaining structures are provided on the main panel 212 and positioned between the first pair of end article retaining structures and the second pair of end article retaining structures.

In the embodiment of FIG. 5, only the end retention structure includes openings A1, A2, A7, A8 with concave engagement edges E2. In the illustrated embodiment, only one edge of the apertures A1, A2, A7, A8 is recessed. Concave edge E2 is provided adjacent or proximate the first or second peripheral portion of top panel 212 . Edge E4 opposite concave edge E2 is linear in shape.

Figures 2, 4 and 6 show the carrier 90; 190; 290 in the assembled condition, the carrier 90; 190; A panel 12, 112, 212 is provided. The valley is formed by a pair of back-to-back engagement elements T3, T4, T6, T7, T8. At least one end of the valley portion is closed by a portion of the top panel 12; 112; 212, which portion may slope. Each end of the valley portion may be closed by a ramp portion.

A pair of back-to-back engagement elements T3, T4, T6, T7, T8 are joined or connected to each other at least at one end by a portion of the main panel 12; 112; 212 located therebetween.

A first end of one of the pair of back-to-back engagement elements T3, T4, T6, T7, T8 is held together by a portion of the main panel 12; 112; , T7, T8, said portion being substantially triangular or trapezoidal in shape.

A second end of one of the pair of back-to-back engagement elements T3, T4, T6, T7, T8 is held together by a portion of the main panel 12; 112; , T7, T8, said portion being substantially triangular or trapezoidal in shape. Said portion of the main panel 12;112;212 may be provided by a portion of one of the star-shaped regions of the main panel 12;112;212.

Common fold lines 48c, 52c; 148c, 152c; 248c, 252c which hinge one of the engagement elements T4, T6, T8 to one of the other engagement elements are indicated by arrow directions GR in FIG. so that it extends parallel to the grain direction of the material. 142c, 122c; 242c, 244c run perpendicular to the grain direction GR.

The joining portion of the main panel 12; 112; 212 may be partially defined by a pair of divergently arranged fold line segments. The divergently arranged fold line segment pairs are non-linear fold lines 46a/13/46b, 42a/42c/42b, 48a/48c/48b, 50a/48c/48b, 44a/44c/44b, 52a/52c. /52b, 142a/142c/142b, 148a/148c/148b, 150a/148c/148b, 144a/144c/144b, 152a/152c/152b, 242a/242c/242b, 248a/248c/248b, 250a/248c/248b , 244a/244c/244b, 252a/252c/252b.

The present disclosure provides top engagement type carriers 90; 190; 290 with improved article holding structures or article top engagement devices RT1, RT2.

The article top engagement device comprises an engagement panel 12; 112; 212 having at least one top receiving opening A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8.

As used herein, "top", "bottom", "base", "front", "back", "end", "side", "inner", "outer", "upper" and "Below" does not necessarily constrain each panel in such a direction, but is simply used to distinguish the panels from each other.

As used herein, the terms "hinged connection" and "fold line" refer to any type of line that defines the hinge mechanism of the blank and facilitates the folding of the blank relative to each other, or Otherwise, it indicates the optimal panel folding position of the blank. References to a "hinge connection" should not necessarily be construed to refer to only a single fold line, and indeed a hinge connection can be formed from two or more fold lines and can be formed from two or more fold lines. Each of the lines can be either straight/straight or curved/curved in shape. When the straight fold lines form a hinge connection, they can be arranged parallel to each other or slightly angled with respect to each other. When the curved fold lines form hinge connections, they may cross each other to define a molded panel within the area bounded by the curved fold lines. A typical example of such a hinge connection may include a pair of arcuate or arcuate fold lines that intersect at two points so that they define an elliptical panel therebetween. A hinge connection can be formed from one or more linear fold lines and one or more curved fold lines. Typical examples of such hinge connections may include a combination of linear fold lines and arcuate or arcuate fold lines that intersect at two points so that they define a half-moon shaped panel therebetween.

As used herein, the term "fold line" means any of the following: score lines, embossed lines, debossed lines, lines of perforations, lines of short slits, lines of half cuts, single It may refer to half cuts, interrupted cut lines, lines of aligned slits, lines of scores, as well as any combination of the aforementioned options.

Hinge connections and fold lines are respectively perforations, lines of perforations, lines of short slits, lines of half cuts, single half cuts, cut lines, interrupted cut lines, slits, scores, embossed lines , debossed lines, any combination thereof, and the like. The elements can be dimensioned and arranged to provide the required functionality. For example, perforation lines may be sized or designed with a degree of weakness to define fold lines and/or cut lines. The lines of perforation can be designed to facilitate folding and resist breakage, to facilitate folding such that more effort is required for breakage, or to facilitate breakage with less effort. .

As used herein, the term "aligned" refers to an assembled carton, such as a first formed opening in two overlapping panels and a second opening formed in a second of two overlapping panels. Refers to the alignment of two or more elements within a . These elements that are aligned with each other can be aligned with each other in the thickness direction of the overlapping panels. For example, if an aperture in a first panel is "aligned" with a second aperture in a second panel that is arranged in an overlapping arrangement with the first panel, then the edge of the aperture extends over at least a portion of the edge. The second opening may extend along and be aligned with the second opening in a direction of the thickness of the first and second panels of the second opening.

1 and 1B, the top engagement panel 12 includes a main portion and a peripheral portion surrounding or circumscribing the main portion. The peripheral portion includes a pair of side peripheral strips 18,20 and a pair of end peripheral strips 101,102. The top engagement panel has a plurality of top receiving openings A1-A8 each for receiving the top of a generally cylindrical article such as a can. Each opening has a plurality of engagement edges positioned along the perimeter of the opening. Each engaging edge is adapted to bear at least a portion of the load of the respective article. The plurality of engaging edges includes at least first and second pairs of diametrically opposed edges E1-E4 or E5-E8.

At least one E4, E8 in the first diametrically opposed pair E2 and E4 or E6 and E8 is provided by hinge elements T4, T8 formed from the main portion of the top panel 12, and non-linear fold lines 48a, 48b, 48c. hinged to the main portion by The other E2, E6 in the first pair E2 and E4; E6 and E8 are provided by a hinge element T6 formed from the main portion of the upper engagement panel 12 and joined thereto by non-linear fold lines 50a, 50b, 48c. It can be hinged to the main portion. Otherwise, the other E2, E6 in the first pair E2 and E4; E6 and E8 are hinged to the carrier end panels 14, 16 by linear fold lines 13, 15, respectively. It may be provided by one 101 of the edge perimeter strips 101,102.

One E3 or E7 in the second diametrically opposed pair E1, E3 or E5, E7 is provided by a hinge element T1 or T7 formed from the main portion of the upper engagement panel 12 and the non-linear fold lines 42a, 42b. , 42c or 44a, 44b, 44c to the main portion. The other E1 or E5 in the second pair E1, E3 or E5, E7 is one of the side peripheral strips 18, 20 hinged to the side panels 22, 24 respectively by linear fold lines 21, 23 respectively. established by

A first pair of diametrically opposed engaging edges E2, E4 or E6, E8 may be curved or straight, while a second pair of engaging edges E1, E3 or E5, E7 may be straight. Side peripheral strips 18, 20 may be hinged to the main portion by fold lines 17, 19, respectively. Each of the fold lines 17, 19 can be interrupted by adjacent openings A1, A3, A5, A7 or A2, A4, A6, A8.

10, 110, 210 Blank 13, 42, 44, 46, 48, 50, 52, 142, 144, 146, 148,
150, 152, 242, 244, 246, 248, 250, 252 fold line 90, 190, 290 carton or carrier 12, 112, 212 main panel 14, 114, 214 first end panel 16, 116, 216 second end panels 18, 118, 218 first peripheral portion, side peripheral portion 20, 120, 220 second peripheral portion, side peripheral portion 22, 122, 222 first side panel 24, 124, 224 second Side panel 26A First corner panel 26B Second corner panel 30A Third corner panel 30B Fourth corner panel 28A/26a/14/26B/28B First end strap 32A/30A/16/30B/32B Second end strap 28A First fastening panel 28B Second fastening panel 32A Third fastening panel 32B Fourth fastening panel A1, A2, A3, A4, A5, A6, A7, A8 Opening B Article E1, E2, E3, E4, E5, E6, E7, E8 Engagement edge G Adhesion treatment RT1, RT2 Article holding structure T1, T2, T3, T4, T5, T6, T7, T8 Engagement member

Claims (19)

An article top engagement device for an article carrier comprising an engagement panel having at least one top receiving opening, comprising:
The article top engagement device comprises at least four engagement members, including at least one pair of diametrically opposed engagement members;
At least one of the at least four engagement members is hinged to the article carrier by linear fold lines, and at least two of the at least four engagement members are hinged to the article carrier by non-linear fold lines. An article top engagement device, characterized in that: 2. An article top engagement device according to claim 1, wherein at least one of said at least four engagement members is provided by a peripheral band portion of said engagement panel. At least one of said at least four engaging members is a first engaging member hingedly coupled to said article carrier by a first linear fold line and hingedly coupled to said article carrier by a second linear fold line. 2. An article top engagement device according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a second engagement member. 4. An article top engaging device according to claim 3, wherein said second linear fold line is oriented perpendicular to said first linear fold line. at least two of said at least four engagement members, a third engagement member hinged to said article carrier by a first non-linear fold line and a third engagement member hinged to said article carrier by a second non-linear fold line; 2. An article top engagement device according to claim 1, characterized in that it comprises a fourth engagement member which is aligned with the fourth engagement member. 6. An article top engaging device according to claim 5, wherein said first non-linear fold line comprises a first linear segment and said second non-linear fold line comprises a second linear segment. 7. An article top engaging device according to claim 6, wherein said first linear segment is oriented perpendicular to said second linear segment. 2. The method of claim 1, wherein at least two of said at least four engagement members comprise three engagement members hinged to said article carrier by corresponding non-linear fold lines. Article upper engagement device. 9. An article top engaging device according to claim 8, wherein each of said non-linear fold lines comprises a linear segment. A first segment of the linear segments is oriented perpendicular to the second segment of the linear segments and a third segment of the linear segments is oriented perpendicular to the second segment of the linear segments. 10. An article top engaging device according to claim 9, characterized in that it is a. 2. An article top engaging device according to claim 1, wherein said at least one top receiving opening comprises at least two diametrically opposed linear edges. 2. An article top engaging device according to claim 1, wherein said at least one top receiving opening comprises at least a pair of diametrically opposed linear edges. 2. An article top engaging device according to claim 1, wherein said at least one top receiving opening comprises at least two pairs of diametrically opposed linear edges. 1. An article carrier for packaging at least one article, the article carrier comprising an upper panel including at least one upper engagement device having at least one upper receiving opening, comprising:
the article top engagement device comprises at least four engagement members, including at least one pair of diametrically opposed engagement members;
At least one of the at least four engagement members is hinged to the article carrier by a linear fold line, and at least two of the at least four engagement members are hinged to the article carrier by a non-linear fold line. An article carrier, characterized in that it is hinged. 15. The article carrier of claim 14, comprising a pair of opposing side walls hinged to the peripheral side portions of the top panel by hinge connections. 16. The article carrier of claim 15, wherein at least one of said at least four engagement members is provided by one of said top panel peripheral side portions. 15. The article carrier of claim 14, comprising a pair of opposed end walls hinged to the peripheral edge of said top panel by a hinge connection. 18. The article carrier of claim 17, wherein at least one of said at least four engagement members is provided by one of said top panel peripheral edges. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising a main panel including at least one upper engaging device having at least one upper receiving opening, comprising:
the article top engagement device comprises at least four engagement members, including at least one pair of diametrically opposed engagement members;
At least one of said at least four engaging members is hinged to an article carrier by a linear fold line and at least two of said at least four engaging members are hinged to said article carrier by non-linear fold lines. A blank characterized by being connected.

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