APPLICATOR FOR CAN CARRIERS

Abstract

A manually-operator applicator device for beverage container carriers is provided. The device comprises a base plate for receiving and aligning a plurality of containers, such as beverage cans. The device further comprises press interconnected to a lever arm and a linkage. The lever arm comprises a user interface and a movement of the lever arm is converted to a linear movement of the press to compressively apply at least one carrier to a plurality of containers.

Description

This U.S. Non-Provisional Patent Application claims the benefit of priority from U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/500,979, filed May 3, 2017, and U.S. Provisional Patent Application Ser. No. 62/561,880, filed Sep. 22, 2017, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference.

FIELD

The present disclosure relates generally to applicator devices for applying carriers and similar devices to containers. Specifically, certain embodiments of the present disclosure relate to a device for applying a can carrier to a plurality of beverage containers as a means of packing and transport for the plurality of beverage containers.

BACKGROUND

Beverage and drinks containers are provided in various different forms, including cans and bottles. These containers are typically packaged for ease of sale and transportation in various different packaging devices. These packaging devices include, for example, can carriers for securing a plurality of cans and facilitating transport of the cans. Known methods and systems for applying carriers to beverage containers include large-scale automated applicator devices and manual assembly methods. For example, commercial applicators include those provided by PAKTECH™. Such applicators are operable to feed a large number of containers and apply carriers to the containers in an automated manner. These applicators are useful for large-scale bottling and filling facilities that are processing and packaging large numbers of containers. Smaller scale operations such as independent breweries typically employ a time-consuming and labor-intensive process of having an individual manually insert each can into a carrier.

SUMMARY

Accordingly, there has been a long-felt and unmet need to provide methods, systems and devices that allow a user to more efficiently apply beverage container carriers without the provision of a large-scale, automated device. There has also been a long-felt and unmet need to provide small-scale, independent beverage manufacturers with a mechanical device for applying carriers and similar devices to beverage containers that is affordable, relatively compact, and easy to operate but which also provides enhanced efficiencies relative to simple manual installation of carriers.

Embodiments of the present disclosure are directed to a mechanical, human-powered device that is operable to align and orient beverage containers and container carrier devices. Such embodiments further comprise a manually-operated system for application of a carrier to a plurality of beverage containers.

In various embodiments, methods, devices and systems of the present disclosure relate to applicators for applying carrier devices to metal beverage cans. In preferred embodiments, for example, a device is provided that is operable to apply a can carrier device to at least two beverage cans. Such embodiments preferably comprise adjustment and alignment features such that the device can be used to apply carriers to different numbers of beverage cans (e.g. 2, 4, or 6 cans).

In preferred embodiments, devices of the present disclosure comprise a mechanical linkage and a lever arm, and wherein the linkage provide leverage and guidance to a movement required to install a carrier onto a plurality of containers without undue effort provided by a user.

Devices of the present disclosure are further contemplated as comprising a base plate for receiving and/or aligning a plurality of containers to be provided with a carrier. Guide members are provided to align a plurality of containers on the base plate and position the containers for proper alignment with a carrier to provided thereon. Reliable and rapid positioning of containers is thus achieved. In some embodiments, the guide members comprise bars, plates or extensions that guide the positioning of the containers on the base plate.

Although certain embodiments of the present disclosure contemplate a base member that comprises or is provided in the form of a plate, alternative embodiments contemplate an applicator device that does not comprise a base plate. For example, in some embodiments, it is contemplated that applicators of the present disclosure comprise a structure that is operable to be provided on a table or similar work surface, and the table or surface is operable to support containers that are to receive a carrier (for example). In such embodiments, the applicator may comprise horizontal and vertical support members to support the applicator including the lever arm and press member. Accordingly, as used herein, the terms “base” or “base member” are not limited to embodiments that comprise a plate.

In some embodiments, a method of providing a plurality of containers with a carrier is provided, wherein the method comprises providing a plurality of containers on a base plate, aligning the plurality of containers, providing a mandrel with at least one carrier, activating a lever arm to effect a downward motion of the mandrel and the carrier, and applying sufficient force to secure the carrier to each of the plurality of containers, and releasing the lever arm to allow the mandrel to return to or proximal to an initial position, and removing the secured carrier and containers.

In preferred embodiments, devices of the present disclosure comprise a mandrel guided by at least one linear bearing. Devices of the present disclosure require a minimal amount of bench-top or desk-top space and provide sufficient stability such that the devices are not tipped over during normal operation.

As used herein, the term “carrier” refers generally to devices for securing and supporting a plurality of beverage containers. Although some embodiments of the present disclosure are specifically contemplated for use with carriers that comprise a plurality of plastic caps that are operable to extend over and attach to an upper portion or double-seam of a beverage can, it will be recognized that the present disclosure is not limited to devices for use with such carriers or with any particular carrier. Applicator devices of the present disclosure are useful for applying various different carrier devices. Inventive aspects of applicator devices of the present disclosure are provided that are not dependent upon a particular type of carrier device.

In some embodiments, a mandrel or press is operable to receive a carrier and apply the carrier to a plurality of cans. In some embodiments, the mandrel is capable of modification such that it can receive a plurality of different kinds of carriers. Such modification is contemplated as being accomplished through the attachment and/or replacement of an insert or similar feature that is sized and operable to receive a specific carrier. In alternative embodiments, an entire press or mandrel is selectively removable from a remainder of the device in order to accommodate different carriers.

Although preferred embodiments of the present disclosure provide for an applicator that is manually-drive and hand-operated, it is also contemplated that some embodiments of the present disclosure provide for a powered device including, but not limited to, a pneumatically-powered device or a motor-driven device. For example, it is contemplated that various container-positioning and carrier-positioning devices as shown and described herein are provided in combination with a mandrel or press that is actuated by at least one pneumatic piston or an electric motor. It will therefore be recognized that inventions of the present disclosure include but are not limited to a human-powered or manually-driven lever arm.

In various embodiments, applicator devices of the present disclosure comprise frame members extending upwardly and/or outwardly from a base plate. In various embodiments, the frame members comprise modular frame members that are secured together through one or more connections means including, but not limited to, fasteners, welds, adhesives, lap joints, etc. Additionally, although various embodiments of the present disclosure comprise a base plate for receiving containers, alternative embodiments contemplate that the device is provided without a base plate. For example, it is contemplated that a linkage and/or lever arm may be provided with a mandrel or press to apply container carriers and wherein the device does not comprise a base plate. In such embodiments, the device may be used to apply carriers to containers that are positioned on a work-bench or table top (for example), and wherein the device is positioned on or above the work-bench, table top, or other work surface.

The Summary of the Invention is neither intended nor should it be construed as being representative of the full extent and scope of the present disclosure. The present disclosure is set forth in various levels of detail in the Summary as well as in the attached drawings and the Detailed Description and no limitation as to the scope of the present disclosure is intended by either the inclusion or non-inclusion of elements, components, etc. in this Summary. Additional aspects of the present disclosure will become more readily apparent from the Detailed Description, particularly when taken together with the drawings.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Those of skill in the art will recognize that the following description is merely illustrative of the principles of the disclosure, which may be applied in various ways to provide many different alternative embodiments. This description is made for illustrating the general principles of the teachings of this disclosure and is not meant to limit the inventive concepts disclosed herein.

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the disclosure and together with the general description of the disclosure given above and the detailed description of the drawings given below, serve to explain the principles of the disclosure.

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an applicator device for carriers according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an applicator device for carriers according to the embodiment of FIG. 1.

FIG. 3 provides top and side dimensioned views of a portion of an applicator device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 4 provides top, front and side views of a portion of an applicator device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 5 provides front elevation, bottom plan, and right side views of a gusset member according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 6 provides front and side elevation views of a portion of an applicator device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 7 provides front and side elevation views of a portion of an applicator device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 8 provides front, bottom and cross-sectional views of an applicator device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 9 provides front and side elevation views of a portion of an applicator device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 10 provides front and side elevation views of a portion of an applicator device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 11 provides front and side elevation views of a portion of an applicator device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 12 provides front and side elevation views of a portion of an applicator device according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an applicator device for carriers according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an applicator device for carriers according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an applicator device for carriers according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an applicator device according to another embodiment of the present disclosure.

It should be understood that the drawings are not necessarily to scale. In certain instances, details that are not necessary for an understanding of the disclosure or that render other details difficult to perceive may have been omitted. It should be understood, of course, that the disclosure is not necessarily limited to the particular embodiments illustrated herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 is a front left perspective view of an applicator device 2 for carriers according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The applicator 2 of FIG. 1 comprises a base member in the form of a base plate 4. The base plate 4 comprises a substantially planar and horizontal member that is operable to receive a plurality of containers 18 as shown. In some embodiments, the base plate 4 comprises a plurality of feet 6 to support, stabilize, and/or level the device. The feet 6 may comprise rubber feet that increase friction between the device 2 and a surface upon which the device 2 is provided. The device 2 further comprises an upwardly extending frame member or vertical support 8. The frame member 8 comprises a support and guide for a press 10 that is vertically displaceable as shown and described herein.

The press 10 is operable to receive a carrier device (not shown in FIG. 1). The press 10 and associated carrier are downwardly displaceable to apply a compressive force and apply the carrier to a plurality of containers 18 when the containers are appropriately positioned on the base plate 4. The press 10 is actuated by a lever arm 12 and associated linkage. The lever arm 12 comprises a user-interface at one end of the lever arm. The user-interface may comprise, for example, an ergonomic handle for grasping the end of the lever arm. A downward movement of the handle and lever arm 12 produces a downward, arcuate movement of a cross-bar 22, which is hingedly interconnected to the frame member 8 by at least one hinge 20. This movement further provides a downward movement of a second member 24. The second member 24 comprises a support member that is operable to resist compressive forces, and is hingedly connected to cross-bar 22 and the press 10 by a plurality of hinges. Non-linear movement of the cross-bar 22 and/or the second member 24 is converted to a vertical and substantially linear movement of the press 10 by means of the hinges and a linear bearing member 14. The linear bearing member 14 is provided as a connection between the press 10 and a vertical support member 15. The linear bearing member 14, and its communication with the vertical support member 15 allows for movement of the press 10 in a linear, vertical direction and substantially prevents a lateral movement of the press. Accordingly, a properly aligned plurality of containers 18 is operable to accurately and reliably receive a carrier provided on the press 10, which is achieved by simple manual movement of the lever arm 12 with sufficient force.

The device 2 of FIG. 1 is contemplated for use with press-on plastic can carriers, which are intended to snap-fit or press-fit onto the upper peripheral curl of a plurality of beverage cans. Devices of the present disclosure, including that shown in FIG. 1, are contemplated as providing an aural feedback mechanism wherein a user is provided with an audible snapping or clicking sound to confirm the proper and complete application of a carrier onto containers. In some embodiments, the press 10 comprises a transparent or translucent material (e.g. lucite) to provide a user with at least some visibility into the installation process of a carrier.

In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the guide member 16 and the press 10 are interconnected or joined such that an adjustment or movement of the guide member automatically aligns a plurality of containers 18 with the press 10. In such embodiments, a separate adjustment and alignment of the press 10 and lever arm 12 is not required and alignment of the containers 18 and the press and the press 10 is automatic.

In some embodiments, it is contemplated that the device 2 comprises indicia or markings to indicate to a user where certain features should be aligned. For example, in some embodiments it is contemplated that the base plate is provided with markings, indicia and/or graduations that provide information to a user related to where certain features should be aligned. For example, in one embodiment, it is contemplated that an upper surface of the base plate is provided with markings and information to convey to a user exactly where the guide member 16 should be positioned relative to the base plate 4 in order to properly align and orient a six-pack (for example) to be supplied with a carrier. Similarly, certain embodiments of the present disclosure contemplate that a horizontal mount to which the lever arm mechanism 12 is mounted is also provided with graduations or other markings to indicate where the lever arm 12 should be provided relative to the base plate.

In various embodiments, the guide member 16 is secured to a frame of the device by a gusseted fastener. The guide member 16 may be slidable received within a frame member by various means, and is preferably selectively securable in a desired position relative to at least one of the base plate 4 and the frame.

FIG. 2 is a front right perspective view of the applicator device 2 of FIG. 1. As shown in FIG. 2, the lever arm 12 is provided with a linkage including an elbow 30 to connect the lever arm to the cross-bar 22 (FIG. 1), and wherein at least a portion of the lever arm is laterally offset from a center of the press 10. This offset provides for a device with enhanced ergonomics, and wherein a user is provided with increased visibility of the containers 18 upon which a carrier is being applied. The lever arm 12 and associated linkage is selectively and slidably secured to a horizontal mount member 28 via at least one fastener 32. The fastener 32 is provided in a track to allow for movement and selective securement of the lever arm 12, press 10, and associated structure. The fastener(s) 32 may comprise various known fasteners including, for example, bolts as well as quick-connect features such as cam locks and similar fasteners. A pair of vertical support members 8 are provided to support the horizontal mount member 28. The vertical support members 8 are contemplated as comprising telescoping members (not shown in FIG. 2) to allow for a height adjustment of components of the device.

As further shown in FIG. 2, the press 10 comprises a gusset 36 connecting the press 10 to a linear bearing member 38, which is slidable communication with the vertical support member 15 (see FIG. 1). In some embodiments, the gusset 36 is selectively securable to the linear bearing member 38 such that the gusset 36 and associated press 10 may be removed for repair or replacement (for example).

FIG. 2 provides a device 2 with a lever arm 12 that is operable for manual use, wherein a user may apply or attach carriers to a plurality of containers 18 by simply aligning the containers 18 with the guide member 16 and a can spacer 25, and moving a press 10 comprising a carrier downwardly by grasping and moving the lever arm 12. The device 2 of the embodiment provided in FIG. 2 may be operated by either right or left-handed users, but is optimized for right-handed users. Devices of the present disclosure, including that shown in FIG. 2, are capable of modification such that they may also be optimized for left-handed use. In order to modify the device of FIG. 2, the lever arm 12 and elbow 30 are detached from the cross-bar 22 and are reattached at an opposing end of the cross-bar 22, proximal to the pivot mount member 40. In alternative embodiments, linkage members are provided that comprise an inversed structure as that shown in FIG. 2 and wherein the lever arm 12 is provided on the left side of the cross-bar to accommodate left-handed use. Additionally, the can guide member 16 can be repositioned to a right side of the device, regardless of the positioning of the lever arm 12. In preferred embodiments, the press 10 is biased upwardly by one or more coil springs attached to a spring mount 27 and to the horizontal mount member 28. The coil spring(s) is put into tension during use of the device, and serves to bias the press 10 back to an initial position.

FIG. 3-12 provide various dimensioned views of components of an applicator device 2 according to embodiments of the present disclosure. Dimensions are provided with these drawings to illustrate dimensions of certain features as contemplated by specific embodiments. It will be recognized, however, that the devices and inventions of the present disclosure are not limited to any of the dimensions provided in the drawings. These dimensions are provided as examples of dimensions that may be used with certain features. Modifications to the dimensions, sizes, and proportions of various features are contemplated as being within the scope of the present disclosure.

FIG. 3 comprises a top plan view and a side elevation view of a base plate 10 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 4 comprises front elevation, top plan, and right side views of a can spacer 25 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 5 comprises front elevation, bottom plan, and right side views of a gusset 36 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 6 comprises front elevation and right side views of a support member 24 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 7 comprises front elevation and right side views of a lever arm 12 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 8 comprises front elevation, bottom plan and cross-sectional elevation views of a press 10 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. As shown in FIG. 8, an underside of the press 10 comprises receiving portions or recesses 50 for receiving a carrier to be applied to a plurality of containers. FIG. 9 comprises front elevation and right side views of a horizontal mount member 28 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 10 comprises front elevation and right side views of a pivot mount member 40 (see FIG. 2, for example) that is operable to connect the cross-bar 22 of the linkage to the horizontal mount member 28. FIG. 11 comprises front elevation and right side views of a guide member 16 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. FIG. 12 comprises front elevation and right side views of a vertical support member 8 according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of an applicator 2 for can carriers according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The applicator 2 of FIG. 13 comprises a base plate 4. The applicator comprises various features already shown and described with respect to FIG. 1, and that discussion is incorporated in its entirety with respect to FIG. 13. The embodiment of FIG. 13 comprises first and second loading ramps 50, 52. Each of the loading ramps 50, 52 are operable to slide cans onto the base plate and/or off the base plate after a carrier has been applied to the cans (for example). The ramps 50, 52 comprise a sloped surface such that cans or similar items can be easily and quickly slid from a table or other work surface onto the base plate 4 for use with the device. The ramps 50, 52 also provide a means of egress for assembled can/carrier combinations to quickly slide off the device 2.

FIG. 14 is a perspective view of an applicator 2 for can carriers according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The applicator 2 of FIG. 14 comprises a base plate 4. The applicator comprises various features already shown and described with respect to FIG. 1, and that discussion is incorporated in its entirety with respect to FIG. 14. The embodiment of FIG. 14 comprises a first ramp 50 for sliding and loading cans onto the base plate 4. A container 54 is shown at an opposing end of the base plate 4 from the ramp 50. The container 54 is depicted as a rectilinear box for receiving, storing, and/or transporting a plurality of 6-pack containers, but may comprise various other containers as recognized by one of skill in the art. The base plate 4 is provided in an elevated position relative to a support surface by a plurality of feet 56. The feet 56 enable alignment and positioning of the base plate 4 with respect to the container 54 so that assembled cans may be slid directly in the container 54 after a carrier is applied. In some embodiments, the feet 56 also provide a guide or stop for aligning an edge of the container with an edge of the base plate 4. In additional embodiments, a lip or edge of the base plate 4 extends downwardly to provide a flush contact surface for an edge of the container 54. In operation, cans are positioned on the base plate 4 and positioned for carrier-application by sliding the cans up the ramp 50. After application of a carrier, as shown and described herein, assembled cans are slid into the container 54 and are ready for shipment or storage. In some embodiments, the feet 56 comprises threaded feet provided on threaded posts such that a height of the base plate 4 is adjustable and may be selectively positioned to accommodate containers 54 is different heights and sizes. Containers 54 for use with the present disclosure may comprise various different containers including but not limited to cardboard shipping containers and more permanent, durable goods.

The ramps 50, 52 preferably comprise a material with a relatively low coefficient of friction to enable sliding of cans and other objects. Such materials include, for example, aluminum, steel and certain plastics. It will be recognized, however, that no limitation with respect to ramp material is provided herewith.

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of an applicator device for carriers according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The embodiment of FIG. 15 comprises a ramp 50 for sliding and loading cans onto the base plate 4. The ramp 50 of FIG. 15 comprises guide members 64a, 64b. The guide members 64a, 64b comprise plates that extend substantially perpendicularly to a planar surface of the ramp 50. In some embodiments, the guide members 64a, 64b are tapered inwardly toward the base plate 4. The guide members or plates 64a, 64b are provided to and are operable to assist in guiding and funneling cans 60 to a desired position where a can carrier is applied by the applicator device 2 shown in FIG. 15. As further shown in FIG. 15, the base plate 4 comprises guide members 62a, 62b for aligning and positioning cans and containers that are to receive a carrier. A first guide member 62a is provided that comprises one or more bends 66 to constrict, narrow, or guide a transit path of cans.

In various embodiments, a relative spacing between the first guide member 62a and the second guide member 62b is adjustable such that different numbers and different sizes of containers can be accommodated. As shown in FIG. 15, for example, the guide members 62a, 62b are spaced to receive and align two adjacent standard 12-ounce aluminum cans. It is further contemplated that at least one leading edge of the first and second guide members 62a, 62b comprises a rounded or contoured edge to facilitate a transition of containers from the ramp 50 to the base plate 4. In some embodiments, it is contemplated that one or more guide members of the present disclosure comprises inward-facing bearings or rollers to facilitate movement of cans relative to the guide members.

The handle 12 of various embodiments of the present disclosure including, for example, the embodiment of FIG. 15 is contemplated as comprising a roller handle that comprises a body pivotable about an axis or axle. The roller handle 12 provides enhanced ergonomics and efficiencies.

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of an applicator device for carriers according to one embodiment of the present disclosure. The embodiment of FIGS. 16-19 comprises a ramp 50 for sliding and loading cans onto the base plate 4. The ramp 50 comprises guide members 64a, 64b. The guide members 64a, 64b comprise plates that extend substantially perpendicularly to a planar surface of the ramp 50. The guide members 64a, 64b comprises mirrored features that are tapered inwardly as they approach the base plate 4. The guide members or plates 64a, 64b are provided to and are operable to assist in guiding and funneling cans 60 to a desired position where a can carrier is applied by the applicator device 2. As further shown in FIG. 16, for example, the base plate 4 comprises guide members 62a, 62b for aligning and positioning cans and containers that are to receive a carrier. Various other features of the applicator 2 are shown and described with respect to other drawings and embodiments herein.

The embodiment of FIG. 16 comprises a device with a handle 12 that can be selectively positioned on either the right side (as shown in FIG. 16) or the left side of the applicator 2. The applicator 2 comprises fasteners or quick-release members 70 that are operable to selectively secure and release the handle 12 such that it may be positioned on either side of the device. The handle 2 applies a force and provides the same general function regardless of which side of the applicator 2 it is provided on.

As shown in various views, including the side elevation views, support members of the present disclosure comprise elongate slots or recesses extending along at least a portion of the length of the member. These slots are operable to receive at least one fastener and secure various features and devices at different locations along the length of the member(s). In some embodiments, cover members are provided to cover or conceal the slots, and prevent fluid from entering recesses in the members. The cover members provide for a cleaner device and limit the amount of surface area and crevices within which mold may grow, for example.

Various features of the present disclosure are shown and described with respect to one or more particular embodiments. It should be recognized, however, that devices and features shown and described herein are not limited to particular embodiment. Rather, features of the present disclosure may be interchanged and/or provided with any of the embodiments disclosed herein, even if not expressly contemplated or shown in a particular Figure.

While various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described in detail, it is apparent that modifications and alterations of those embodiments will occur to those skilled in the art. However, it is to be expressly understood that such modifications and alterations are within the scope and spirit of the present disclosure. Further, the invention(s) described herein are capable of other embodiments and of being practiced or of being carried out in various ways. In addition, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology used herein is for the purposes of description and should not be regarded as limiting. The use of “including,” “comprising,” or “adding” and variations thereof herein are meant to encompass the items listed thereafter and equivalents thereof, as well as, additional items.

Claims

1. An applicator for applying carrier devices to containers, the applicator comprising:

a base plate operable to receive and orient a plurality of containers in a vertical orientation;

at least one guide member for guiding and/or aligning the plurality of containers on the base plate;

a lever arm comprising a user-interface;

a press member extending in a plane that is substantially parallel to an upper surface of the base plate;

wherein the press member is hingedly connected to the lever arm and wherein the lever arm is operable to apply a force to the carrier-press member and apply a carrier to a plurality of containers provided on the base plate.

2. The applicator of claim 1, further comprising a frame member extending upwardly from the base plate.

3. The applicator of claim 2, wherein the lever arm is hingedly connected to the frame member.

4. The applicator of claim 2, wherein the frame member comprises at least one vertical support member and a linear bearing surface, wherein the carrier-press member is in force-transmitting communication with the linear bearing surface and wherein an arcuate movement of the lever arm produces a linear movement of the carrier-press member.

5. The applicator of claim 1, wherein the carrier-press member is selectively translatable relative to the base plate.

6. The applicator of claim 1, wherein the guide member is selectively translatable relative to the base plate.

7. The applicator of claim 1, wherein the press member comprises at least one recess for receiving a carrier.

8. An applicator comprising:

a base member operable to receive and orient a plurality of containers;

at least one guide member for guiding and/or aligning the plurality of containers on the base member;

a rotatable lever arm;

a press member extending in a plane that is substantially parallel to an upper surface of the base member;

wherein the press member is hingedly connected to the rotatable lever arm and wherein the rotatable lever arm is operable to apply a force to the press member and apply a force to an objected provided on the base member.

9. The applicator of claim 8, further comprising a frame member extending upwardly from the base member, and wherein the frame member provides structural support to the rotatable lever arm.

10. The applicator of claim 8, wherein the lever arm is hingedly connected to the frame member.

11. The applicator of claim 8, wherein the frame member comprises at least one vertical support member and a linear bearing surface, wherein the press member is in force-transmitting communication with the linear bearing surface and wherein an arcuate movement of the lever arm produces a linear movement of the press member.

12. The applicator of claim 8, wherein the press member comprises a receiving portion for selectively receiving a can-carrier to be applied to objects provided on the base plate.

13. The applicator of claim 8, wherein the base plate comprises a guide member that is selectively translatable relative to the base plate.

14. The applicator of claim 8, wherein the lever arm comprises a handle operable to receive the hand of a user.

15. A can-carrier applicator comprising:

a base member;

a rotatable lever arm;

a press member hingedly connected to the rotatable lever arm and wherein the rotatable lever arm is operable to displace the press member and apply a force to an object; and

wherein the press member comprises a receiving portion for selectively receiving an object to be applied by the press member.

16. The applicator of claim 15, further comprising a frame member extending upwardly from the base member, and wherein the frame member provides structural support to the rotatable lever arm.

17. The applicator of claim 15, wherein the rotatable lever arm is hingedly connected to the press member.

18. The applicator of claim 15, wherein the applicator comprises a frame member having at least one vertical support member and a linear bearing surface, wherein the press member is in force-transmitting communication with the linear bearing surface and wherein an arcuate movement of the lever arm produces a linear movement of the press member.

19. The applicator of claim 15, wherein the press member comprises a receiving portion for selectively receiving a can-carrier to be applied to a plurality of cans.

20. The applicator of claim 15, further comprising a base plate with a guide member that is selectively translatable relative to the base plate.