CARTON AND CARTON BLANK AND A HANDLE STRUCTURE THEREFORE

Abstract

A carton (90) comprises a substantially tubular structure including a top wall (16) and first and second side walls (14, 18) hingedly connected respectively to opposed edges of the top wall. The carton comprises a handle structure (H1) formed in the top wall (16) and in at least one of the first and second side walls (14, 18). The handle structure (H1) includes a first handle flap hinged to the top wall (16) and to the at least one of the first and second side walls (14, 18) by a hinged connection (31A). The first handle flap comprises a first main portion (30A) formed from part of the top wall (16); and a first end portion (32A/46A) formed at least in part by a part of the at least one of the first and second side walls (14, 18).

Description

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a carton and a blank for forming the carton more specifically, but not exclusively, to a carton having a handle structure for facilitating carrying of a package formed from the carton and one or more articles contained by the carton.

BACKGROUND

In the field of packaging it is often required to provide consumers with a package comprising a plurality of primary product containers such as cans, bottles and the like, together in a carton. Such packages are desirable for shipping and distribution, customer use, and display of promotional information. For cost and environmental considerations, the cartons or carriers used in such packages need to be formed from as little material as possible and cause as little wastage in the materials from which they are formed as possible. Another consideration is the strength of the package and its suitability for holding and transporting large weights of articles.

It is desirable to provide a carton having a handle structure for forming a carrying handle such that a user may deploy the handle structure to carry the package. It is desirable that the carrying handle is both strong enough to withstand the load of the carton and its contents. It is also desirable for the carrying handle to be simple and easy for a user to deploy. It is also desirable for the carrying handle to be comfortable to use.

SUMMARY

The various embodiments of the present disclosure seek to overcome or at least mitigate against the shortcomings of the prior art and/or provide an improvement in the field of packaging.

According to a first aspect of the disclosure for which protection is sought, there is provided a carton comprising: a top wall, a first side wall hingedly connected to the top wall, and a handle structure formed in the top wall and in the first side wall. The handle structure comprising a first handle flap hinged to the top wall and to the first side wall by a first hinged connection. The first handle flap may comprise a first end portion formed at least in part in the first side wall and a first intermediate portion. The first handle flap may also comprise a first main portion formed from part of the top wall and being hingedly connected to the first end portion by the first intermediate portion. The first handle flap may also comprise a first cutaway struck at least in part from the first handle flap and disposed adjacent to the first intermediate portion.

Optionally, the first end portion is formed in part in the top wall. The first cutaway may be disposed adjacent to the first main portion. In some embodiments, the first cutaway is disposed adjacent to the first end portion.

The first cutaway may be struck at least in part from the top wall. Optionally, the first cutaway is struck at least in part from the first side wall.

The first intermediate portion may be formed at least in part in the top wall. In some embodiments, the first intermediate portion may be formed in part in the first side wall.

In some embodiments, the carton further comprises a second side wall connected to an opposite edge of the top wall and first handle flap comprises a second end portion formed at least in part in the second side wall. The first handle flap may comprise a second intermediate portion and the first main portion may be hingedly connected to the second end portion by the second intermediate portion. The handle structure may further comprise a second cutaway struck at least in part from the first handle flap and disposed adjacent to the second intermediate portion.

Optionally, a third cutaway that is struck, at least in part, from the first main portion and that couples the first cutaway to the second cutaway.

In some embodiments, the first end portion is formed at least in part in the top wall. The second end portion may be formed at least in part in the top wall.

Optionally, the first cutaway extends from a free edge of the first handle flap toward the first hinged connection.

The carton may comprise at least one article disposed therein. The first end portion may engage with a portion of a first end of the at least one article when the handle structure is deployed. The second end portion may engage with a portion of a second end of the at least one article when the handle structure is deployed.

In some embodiments, the handle structure includes a second handle flap hinged by a second hinged connection to the top wall and to the first side wall in opposition to the first handle flap. The second handle flap may comprise a third end portion formed at least in part in the first side wall and a third intermediate portion. A second main portion formed from part of the top wall may be hingedly connected to the third end portion by the third intermediate portion. Additionally or alternatively, the second handle flap may comprise a fourth end portion formed at least in part in the second side wall, a fourth intermediate portion and the second main portion may be hingedly connected to the fourth end portion by the fourth intermediate portion. The handle structure may further comprise a third cutaway struck at least in part from the second handle flap and disposed adjacent to the third intermediate portion and/or a fourth cutaway struck at least in part from the second handle flap and disposed adjacent to the fourth intermediate portion.

Optionally, the first and third cutaways form a first aperture defined in the top wall. Additionally or alternatively, the second and fourth cutaways may form a second aperture defined in the top wall.

Optionally, a slot is struck from the top wall and couples the first aperture to the second aperture.

The top wall may further comprise a feature selected from the group comprising: a slot, a weakened line of separation, a frangible line and a cut line, which feature couples the first aperture to the second aperture.

Optionally, the feature that couples the first aperture to the second aperture extends into the first and/or second side walls and alongside the first and/or second end portions.

In some embodiments, the first handle flap is hinged to the top wall by a first curved fold line. Optionally, the first handle flap is hinged to the top wall by a second curved fold line. The second curved fold line may be curved in opposition to the first curved fold line. The first and second curved folds lines may be in touching contact at portions thereof and may diverge from each other at first ends thereof. Further optionally, the first intermediate portion is defined, at least in part by a portion of the top wall disposed between the first and second curved fold lines.

In some embodiments, the first handle flap is hinged to the top wall by a first curved fold line and the first handle flap is hinged to the top wall by a second curved fold line. The second curved fold line may be curved in opposition to the first fold line. The first and second curved folds lines may be in touching contact at the centre and diverging from each other at each of the ends thereof. Optionally, the first intermediate portion and the second intermediate portion are defined in part between respective diverging ends of the first and second curved fold lines.

Optionally, the first main portion comprises a fold line extending thereacross, from the first hinged connection to an opposing edge thereof, so as to define in part a web panel disposed adjacent to the first intermediate portion.

Optionally, the first intermediate portion is triangular, three-sided and/or trapezoidal in shape.

In some embodiments, a second intermediate portion and/or a third intermediate portion and/or a fourth intermediate portion may be triangular, three-sided and/or trapezoidal in shape.

In some embodiments, the carton comprises a plurality of walls forming a tubular structure including a top wall, first side wall, second side wall and a base wall.

According to another aspect of the disclosure for which protection is sought, there is provided a handle structure for a carton. The handle structure may be formed in a first wall and in a second wall hingedly connected thereto and may include a first handle flap hinged to the first wall and to the second wall by a hinged connection. The handle flap may comprise a main portion formed from a part of the first wall and a first end portion formed at least in part from a part of the second wall. The main portion may be hingedly connected to the first end portion by an intermediate portion and a recess may be struck at least in part from the first handle flap and disposed adjacent to the first intermediate portion.

According to another aspect of the disclosure for which protection is sought, there is provided a blank comprising a plurality of panels for forming a carton, the plurality of panels comprising: a top panel and a first side panel. The blank comprises a handle structure formed in the top panel and in the first side panel, the handle structure including a handle flap hinged to the top panel and the first side panel by a first hinged connection. The handle flap may comprise a first end portion formed at least in part from the first side panel; a first intermediate portion; and a first main portion formed from a part of the top panel and being hingedly connected to the first end portion by the first intermediate portion. The handle structure may comprise a first cutaway struck at least in part from the handle flap and disposed adjacent to the first intermediate panel.

Optionally, the first cutaway extends from a free edge of the handle flap toward the first hinged connection.

According to yet another aspect of the disclosure for which protection is sought, there is provided a carton comprising: a top wall, a first side wall hingedly connected to the top wall, and a handle structure formed in the top wall and in the first side wall. The handle structure comprising: a handle flap hinged to the top wall and to the first side wall by a hinged connection. The handle flap may comprise a main portion formed from a part of the top wall; a first end portion formed at least in part from a part of the first side wall; and an intermediate portion hingedly interconnecting the main portion to the first end portion. The main portion may have a maximum height dimension (h2) defined between the hinged connection and an opposing free end edge thereof. The intermediate portion may have a height dimension (h1) defined between the hinged connection and a free opposing end edge thereof. The height dimension (h1) of the intermediate portion may be less than the maximum height dimension (h2) of the main portion.

According to another further aspect of the disclosure for which protection is sought, there is provided a carton comprising: a top wall, a first side wall hingedly connected to the top wall, and a handle structure formed in the top wall and in the first side wall. The handle structure comprising a handle flap hinged to the top wall and to the first side wall by a hinged connection. The handle flap may comprise a main portion formed from a part of the top wall and a first end portion formed at least in part from the first side wall. Optionally an intermediate portion hingedly interconnects the main portion to the first end portion. The first end portion may be defined in part by a first cut line orientated substantially perpendicular to a hinged line between the top wall and the first side wall. The first end portion may be defined in part by a second cut line extending between the first cut line and the hinged connection between the first end portion and the first side wall, the second cut line comprising a substantially ‘C’ shaped portion commencing at a point of intersection between the second cut line and the hinged connection between the first end portion and the first side wall. Optionally, the first end portion has a maximum height dimension (‘Y’) and the substantially ‘C’ shaped section of the first cut line being disposed a linear dimension (‘X’) from the first cut line, wherein the height dimension (‘Y’) is greater that the linear dimension (‘X’).

Within the scope of this application it is intended that the various aspects, embodiments, examples, features and alternatives set out in the preceding paragraphs, in the claims and/or in the following description and drawings may be taken independently or in any combination thereof. For example, features described in connection with one embodiment are applicable to all embodiments unless there is incompatibility of features.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

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

FIG. 1 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carton according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is an enlarged plan view from above of the handle structure of the blank of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a perspective view from above of a carton formed from the blank of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view from above of the carton of FIG. 3 showing the handle structure in a deployed condition;

FIG. 5 is a cutaway perspective view from above of the carton of FIG. 3 showing the handle structure in a deployed condition;

FIG. 6 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carton according to another embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 is an enlarged plan view from above of the handle structure of the blank of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a perspective view from above of a carton formed from the blank of FIG. 6;

FIG. 9 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carton according to an embodiment of the present disclosure;

FIG. 10 is an enlarged plan view from above of the handle structure of the blank of FIG. 9; and

FIG. 11 is a perspective view from above of a carton formed from the blank of FIG. 9; and

FIG. 12 is a plan view from above of a portion of a blank including a handle structure according to a further embodiment of the present disclosure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of the packages, blanks, cartons and handle structures therefor are disclosed herein. It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the way in which certain aspects of the disclosure can be implemented and do not represent an exhaustive list of all of the ways the disclosure may be embodied. As used herein, the word “exemplary” is used expansively to refer to embodiments that serve as illustrations, specimens, models, or patterns. Indeed, it will be understood that the packages, blanks, cartons and handle structures therefor described herein may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The Figures are not necessarily to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minimised to show details of particular components. Well-known components, materials or methods are not necessarily described in great detail in order to avoid obscuring the present disclosure. Any specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the disclosure.

FIG. 1 shows a plan view of a blank 10 capable of forming a carton 90, as shown in FIG. 3. The carton 90 is used for containing a group (one or more) of primary product containers such as, but not limited to, cans, pouches, brick packs and bottles, hereinafter referred to as articles C.

In the embodiments detailed herein, the terms “carton” and “carrier” refer, for the non-limiting purpose of illustrating the various features of the invention, to a container for engaging, carrying, and/or dispensing articles, such as product containers. It is contemplated that the teachings of the disclosure can be applied to various primary product containers, which may or may not be tapered and/or cylindrical. Exemplary containers include bottles (for example metallic, glass or plastics bottles), cans (for example aluminium cans), sprayers or fluid dispensers such as a perfume bottle, tins, pouches, packets, and the like. It will be appreciated that the carton 90 may be employed, in some applications, to package primary products such as an alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverage held within primary product containers. In other embodiments the primary products are, for example, but without limitation, electrical goods that may be packaged directly within the carton 90.

The blanks shown and described herein are formed from a sheet of suitable substrate. It is to be understood that, as used herein, the term “suitable substrate” includes all manner of foldable sheet material such as paperboard, corrugated board, cardboard, plastic, combinations thereof, and the like. It should be recognized that one or other numbers of blanks may be employed, where suitable, for example, to provide the carton described in more detail below.

In various embodiments, the blanks are configured to form a carton or carrier for packaging an illustrative arrangement of optional articles. In the illustrated embodiments the arrangement is a 2×6 matrix or array of twelve articles C. In other embodiments other arrangements may be employed. The blank can be alternatively configured to form a carton for packaging other types, number and size of article and/or for packaging articles in a different arrangement or configuration.

Referring again to FIG. 1, the blank 10 comprises a plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18 and a securing panel 20 hinged together in a linear series. More specifically, the blank 10 comprises a base panel 12 hinged to a first side panel 14 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 13. The base panel 12 forms a base wall of the carton 90 and the first side panel 14 forms a first side wall of the carton 90. The first side panel 14 is hinged to a top panel 16 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 15. The top panel 16 forms a top wall of the carton 90. The top panel 16 is hinged to a second side panel 18 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 17. The second side panel 18 forms a second side wall of the carton 90. The second side panel 18 is hinged to the securing panel 20 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 19.

The plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18 and securing panel 20 form an open ended tubular structure (not shown) when in a partially set up condition. Each of the ends of the tubular structure is at least partially closed by end closure panels 22A, 24A, 26A, 28A; 22B, 24B, 26B, 28B. End closure panels 22A, 24A, 26A, 28A are configured to close a first end of the tubular structure and end panels 22B, 24B, 26B, 28B are configured to close a second end of the tubular structure.

A first end closure panel 22A is hinged to a first end of base panel 12 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 21A. A second end closure panel 24A is hinged to a first end of first side panel 14 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 23A. A third end closure panel 26A is hinged to a first end of top panel 16 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 25A. A fourth end closure panel 28A is hinged to a first end of the second side panel 18 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 27A.

A fifth end closure panel 22B is hinged to a second end of base panel 12 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 21B. A sixth end closure panel 24B is hinged to a second end of the first side panel 14 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 23B. A seventh end closure panel 26B is hinged to a second end of top panel 16 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 25B. An eighth end closure panel 28B is hinged to a second end of second side panel 18 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 27B.

The first end closure panel 22A and the fifth end closure panel 22B each form a minor lower end closure panel at opposing ends of the tubular structure. The third end closure panel 26A and the seventh end closure panel 26B each form a minor upper end closure panel at opposing ends of the tubular structure.

The second end closure panel 24A and the fourth end closure panel 28A each form a major side end closure panel at the first end of the tubular structure. The sixth end closure panel 24B and the eighth end closure panel 28B each form a major side end closure panel at the second end of the tubular structure.

The blank 10 comprises a handle structure H1 formed in part in the top panel 16 and in part in the first and second side panels 14, 18. An enlarged view of the handle structure H1 is shown in FIG. 2 along with parts of the top panel 16 and the first and second side panels 14, 18. It can be seen from FIG. 2 that the handle structure H1 of the presently illustrated embodiment comprises a first handle flap including a main portion 30A; a first end portion 32A/46A; a second end portion 34A/48A; a first intermediate portion 36A; and a second intermediate portion 38A.

The main portion 30A is defined within the top panel 16. The main portion 30A provides a comfort flap which a user may engage or press against when using the handle structure H1 as a carrying handle for carrying the carton 90. The first intermediate portion 36A and the second intermediate portion 38A are also each defined within the top panel 16.

A first part 32A of the first end portion 32A/46A is defined in the first side panel 14 and a second part 46A of the first end portion 32A/46A is defined in the top panel 16. As can be seen in FIG. 2, the first part 32A and the second part 46A of the first end portion 32A/46A are separated by part of fold line 15 between the top panel 16 and the first side panel 14.

A first part 34A of the second end portion 34A/48A is defined in the second side panel 18 and a second part 48A of the second end portion 34A/48A is defined in the top panel 16.

The first part 34A and second part 48A of the second end portion 34A/48A are separated by part of fold line 17 between the top panel 16 and the second side panel 18.

The handle structure H1 comprises a cutaway in the form of an aperture A1. The aperture A1 is struck from the top panel 16. The aperture A1 defines in part the first and second end portions 32A/46A, 34A/48A, the first intermediate portion 36A, the second intermediate portion 38A and main portion 30A.

The aperture A1 defines a first recess which separates the main portion 30A from the first end portion 32A/46A, and defines a second recess which separates the main portion 30A from the second end portion 34A/48A.

Providing the cutaway adjacent to the first and second intermediate portions 36A, 38A has the effect of reducing the height h1 of the first and second intermediate portions 36A, 38A. In the absence of the aperture A1 it would be necessary for the first and third cut lines 44A, 44B to extends across the top panel 16 so as to be continuous and for the intermediate portions first and second intermediate portions 36A, 38A to extend fully across the handle flap to separate the main portion 30A from the respective first and second end portions 32A/46A, 34A/48A.

The cutaway may also be formed adjacent to the main portion 30A and/or the first and second end portions 32A/46A, 34A/48A.

The main portion 30A is separated or spaced apart from the first end portion 32A/46A by the first intermediate portion 36A and by a recess defined by a first part of the aperture A1. The main portion 30A is separated or spaced apart from the second end portion 34A/48A by the second intermediate portion 38A and by a recess defined by a second part of the aperture A1.

The height dimension h1 of the first and second intermediate portions 36A, 38A is smaller than a height dimension h2 of the main portion 30A.

The first recess comprises a curved portion defining a maximum depth into the first handle flap to which the recess extends. The apex of the first intermediate portion 36A is in touching contact with the first recess, substantially at the point that the curved portion reaches its maximum depth.

In some embodiments the curved portions of the recesses may have a radius of curvature of about 0.155″ (or about 3.9 mm). It has been found that if the curved portion of the recess comprises a larger radius of curvature dimension then the handle strength and/or durability is improved; tear are less likely to propagate from the recess. If the radius of curvature is increased too much however this may lead to removal of too significant a portion of the main portion 30A (which provides a comfort flap for the user). This may have an effect upon the comfortableness of the handle perceived by the user. Therefore there is a balance to be struck between the strength of the handle and the comfort of the handle in use. The value of 0.155″ for radius of curvature of the curved portions of the recesses has been found to satisfy both requirements. It will be appreciated that in other embodiments different values for radius of curvature of the curved portions may be acceptable.

The first handle flap is hinged to the top panel 16 by a first hinged connection such as a first curved fold line 31A and by a second hinged connection such as a second curved fold line 33A. The first curved fold line 31A is curved in opposition to the second curved fold line 33A. The centre of first curved fold line 31A is in touching contact, overlaps with, or is otherwise in registry, with the centre of second curved fold line 33A. End portions of the first curved fold line 31A diverge away from respective end portions of the second curved fold line 33A.

The curved nature of the first fold line 31A, which in some embodiments may be formed by a fold line which is periodically interrupted by cut lines, may serve to maintain the first handle flap, in particular the main portion 30A thereof, in a folded condition and acts against the inherent, natural resilience of the sheet material from which the carton 90 is formed. The inherent, natural resilience of the sheet material tends to urge or cause the sheet material to unfold, but the provision of a curved or arcuate first fold line 31A mitigates against this.

In alternative embodiments either or both of the first fold line 31A and the second fold line 33A are non-linear. The first fold line 31A and/or the second fold line 33A may be formed from two or more linear sections arranged divergently with respect to each other.

The first intermediate portion 36A is defined in part by a first end portion of the first curved fold line 31A and in part by a first end portion of the second curved fold line 33A. Similarly, the second intermediate portion 38A is defined in part by a second end portion of the first curved fold line 31A and in part by a second end portion of the second curved fold line 33A.

The first intermediate portion 36A interconnects the main portion 30A to the first end portion 32A/46A. The first intermediate portion 36A is hinged to the main portion 30A by a first end portion of second curved fold line 33A. The first intermediate portion 36A is hinged to the first end portion 32A/46A by a hinged connection such as a fold line 39A. Fold line 39A extends between a first end of the first curved fold line 31A and a first end of the second curved fold line 33A. Fold line 39A is also curved; in other embodiments fold line 39A may be linear.

The second intermediate portion 38A interconnects the main portion 30A to the second end portion 34A/48A. The second intermediate portion 38A is hinged to the main portion 30A by a second end portion of second curved fold line 33A. The second intermediate portion 38A is hinged to the second end portion 34A/48A by a hinged connection such as a fold line 41A. Fold line 41A extends between a second end of the first curved fold line 31A and a second end of the second curved fold line 33A. Fold line 41A is also curved; in other embodiments fold line 41A may be linear.

The first part 32A of the first end portion 32A/46A is hinged to the first side panel 14 by a fold line 35A. Fold line 35A is contiguous with first curved fold line 31A and intersects the fold line 15 (between first side panel 14 and top panel 16) at the point the first curved fold line 31A intersects the fold line 17.

The first part 32A of the first end portion 32A/46A is further defined in part by a first cutline 44A. The second part 46A of the first end portion 32A/46A is also defined in part by the first cutline 44A. The first cut line 44A is orientated substantially perpendicularly to the fold line 15 and extends from the aperture A1 into the first side panel 14. A second cutline 40A extends from a terminal end of the first cutline 44A disposed in the first side panel 14 towards the fold line 35A. The first cut line 44A defines a free end edge of the first end portion 32A/46A.

The second cutline 40A comprises a “C” or “J” shaped section C1 at a one end thereof. The “C” or “J” shaped section C1 of the second cutline 40A is disposed proximate the fold line 35A. The “C” or “J” shaped section C1 of the second cutline 40A is arranged to be maximum linear dimension “X” from the first cutline 44A. The fold line 35A is arranged to be maximum linear dimension “Y” from the first cutline 44A. Optionally, the linear dimension “X” may be less than or equal to the linear dimension “Y” as shown in FIG. 2.

In this way the “C” or “J” shaped section C1 of the second cutline 40A is disposed between a first notional line defining a first edge of the first end portion 32A/46A and a second notional line defining a second, opposing, edge of the first end portion 32A/46A. The “C” or “J” shaped section C1 can be considered to be disposed within the width of the foot print of the first handle flap. That is to say the “C” or “J” shaped section C1 does not extend beyond the first handle flap in a longitudinal direction of the carton; the longitudinal direction being defined by the tubular axis of the carton.

The first part 34A of the second end portion 34A/48A is hinged to the second side panel 18 by a fold line 37A. Fold line 37A is contiguous with first curved fold line 31A and intersects the fold line 17 (between the top panel 16 and second side panel 18) at the point that the first curved fold line 31A intersects the fold line 17.

The first part 34A of the second end portion 34A/48A is defined in part by a third cutline 44B. The second part 48A of the second end portion 34A/48A is defined in part by the third cutline 44B. The third cut line 44B is orientated substantially perpendicularly to the fold line 17 and extends from the aperture A1 into the second side panel 18. A fourth cutline 42A extends from a terminal end of the third cutline 44B disposed in the second side panel 18, towards the fold line 37A. The third cut line 44B defines a free end edge of the second end portion 34A/48A.

The fourth cutline 42A comprises a “C” or “J” shaped section C3 at a one end thereof. The “C” or “J” shaped section C3 of the fourth cutline 42A is disposed proximate the fold line 37A. The “C” or “J” shaped section C3 of the fourth cutline 42A is arranged to be maximum linear dimension “X” from the third cutline 44B. The fold line 37A is arranged to be maximum linear dimension “Y” from the third cutline 44B. The linear dimension “X” is less than the linear dimension “Y”.

The handle structure H1 comprises a second handle flap including main portion 30B; a third end portion 32B/46B; a fourth end portion 34B/48B; a third intermediate portion 36B; and a fourth intermediate portion 38B.

The second handle flap is substantially the same in construction as the first handle flap albeit a mirror image thereof and only the differences will be described in greater detail. The second handle flap is hinged to the top panel 16 by a first curved fold line 31B and by a second curved fold line 33B. The second handle flap is hinged in opposition to the first handle flap.

The aperture A1 defines in part the third and fourth end portions 32B/46B, 34B/48B, the third intermediate portion 36B and the fourth intermediate portion 38B and the main portion 30B. The aperture A1 is substantially “dumbbell” shaped, that is to say it comprises a slot portion 50B at each end of which is a bulbous portion 50A, 50C, which in the illustrated embodiment is substantially conical.

By coupling the bulbous portions 50A, 50C to one another by the slot portion 50B the removal of the portion of sheet material defined by the aperture A1 is simplified. It may also serve as a visual cue for a user to guide them where to engage with the handle structure.

In other embodiments slot portion 50B may be formed as a weakened line of separation, cut line, perforate line or other frangible line that may be broken when the carrying handle H1 is deployed.

In some embodiments the slot portion 50B may be contiguous with the first cutline 44A and/or the third cutline 44B such that the slot portion 50B may be considered as extending into the first and/or second side walls 14, 18 and alongside the first and/or second end portions 32A/46A, 34A/48A.

The third end portion 32B/46B is defined in part by the first cutline 44A and in part by a fifth cutline 40B. Together the first cutline 44A, the second cutline 40A and the fifth cutline 40B define a substantially “T” shaped cut line 40 terminated at each end of the cross member of the “T” by a “C” shaped section C1, C2.

The fourth end portion 34B/48B is defined in part by the third cutline 44B and in part by a sixth cutline 42B. Together the third cutline 44B, the fourth cutline 42A and the sixth cutline 42B define a substantially “T” shaped cut line 42 terminated at each end of the cross member of the “T” by a “C” shaped section C3, C4.

The carton 90 can be formed by a series of sequential folding operations in a straight line machine so that the carton 90 may not be required to be rotated or inverted to complete its construction. The folding process is not limited to that described below and may be altered according to particular manufacturing requirements. During loading and assembly of the carton 90, the carton 90 may be orientated such that the first side panel 14 forms a loading surface. The bases of one or more articles C may be in sliding contact with the loading surface when being inserted into the carton 90. The articles C may be substantially cylindrical in shape and have a cylindrical axis. The cylindrical axis is orientated perpendicularly to the first side panel 14 and may also be orientated substantially vertically. The main panel 16 forms the top panel (top wall) 16 when the handle structure H1 is in use as a carrying handle by a user and this top wall 16 is optionally, disposed adjacent to the sides of the articles C. In this orientation the top wall 16 is not disposed substantially planar to the tops or bottoms of the articles C held within the carton 90 In other words the cylindrical axis of the articles C is substantially parallel with the plane of the top wall 16 of the carton 90 in which the main portion 30A, 30B is formed. The main panel 12 forms the base panel 12 when the handle structure is in use as a carrying handle by a user. The main panel 12 may also form the base panel 12 when the articles C are being dispensed from the carton 90 or when the carton 90 is at rest upon a surface such as a shelf. As such, it will be understood that descriptive terms “top”, “base”, and “side” do not necessarily limit the carton 90 to adopting a particular orientation but serve to distinguish those panels from one another, albeit the main portion 30A, 30B of the carrying handle H1 is formed in a wall or panel of the carton is substantially parallel with the cylindrical axis of the articles C. In other embodiments the cylindrical axis of the articles C may be orientated differently with respect to the top wall 16 of the carton 90. For example, but not limited to, the cylindrical axis of the articles C be may orientated substantially perpendicularly to the plane of the top wall 16 of the carton 90.

Turning to the construction of the carton 90 as illustrated in FIG. 3, the blank 10 is folded about the fold line 17 such that the second side panel 18 is disposed in overlying relationship with the top panel 16 and such that the securing panel 20 is disposed in face contacting relationship with the first side panel 14.

Glue G or other adhesive treatment is applied to an outer surface of the securing panel 20. Alternatively, glue G or other adhesive treatment may be applied to a corresponding edge portion of an inner surface of the base panel 12.

The blank 10 is folded about the fold line 13 such that the base panel 12 is disposed in overlying relationship with the securing panel 20 and part of the first side panel 14. The base panel 12 is thereby secured to the securing panel 20.

The blank 10 is thus formed into a flat collapsed tubular structure which can be readily shipped or distributed to a convertor plant, at which the flat collapsed tubular structure may be erected into an open ended tubular structure and loaded with articles C.

The flat collapsed tubular structure may be erected to form an open ended tubular structure by unfolding the first side panel 14 with respect to the base panel 12 such that the first side panel 14 is disposed substantially perpendicularly with respect to the base panel 12.

The carton 90, in its open ended tubular form, may be loaded with articles C through one or both open ends thereof. It will be appreciated that in some embodiments one of the open ends of the carton 90 may be closed before loading the interior with articles C through the remaining open end.

Once the carton 90 has been loaded with articles C the open ends of the carton 90 are closed.

The method for closing each of the open ends of the carton 90 is substantially the same and will be described by reference to closing the first open end.

A first end of the tubular structure is closed by folding the first end closure panel 22A about fold line 21A and by folding the third end closure panel 26A about fold line 25A.

Glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to a first portion of an inner surface of the second end closure panel 24A. In alternative embodiments glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to a corresponding portion of an outer surface of first end closure panel 22A.

Glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to a second portion of an inner surface of the second end closure panel 24A. In alternative embodiments glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to a corresponding portion of an outer surface of third end closure panel 26A.

The second end closure panel 24A is then folded about the fold line 23A to be brought into contact with the first and third end closure panels 22A, 26A. The second end closure panel 24A may be secured to each of the first and third end closure panels 22A, 26A.

Glue or other adhesive treatment is applied to a portion of an inner surface of the fourth end closure panel 28A. In alternative embodiments glue or other adhesive treatment may be applied to a portion of an outer surface of the second end closure panel 24A.

The fourth end closure panel 28A is then folded about the fold line 27A to be brought into contact with the second end closure panel 24A and optionally into contact with the first and third end closure panels 22A, 26A.

The fourth end closure panel 28A is secured to the second end closure panel 24A. The fourth end closure panel 28A may be secured to the first and third end closure panels 22A, 26A for example by glue or other adhesive treatment.

In alternative embodiments the second end closure panel 24A may be folded about fold line 23A after folding the fourth end closure panel 28A about fold line 27A. It will be appreciated that in such embodiments the second end closure panel 24A is disposed outermost.

In other embodiments alternative securing means may be employed to secure the end closure panels 22A, 24A, 26A; 28B, 22B, 24B, 26B, 28B, for example but not limited to mechanical locking devices such as staples or punch locks integrally formed within the end closure panels 22A, 24A, 26A, 28A; 22B, 24B, 26B, 28B.

The process described above in relation to the first end is replicated to close the second end of the carton 90 and is not further described.

A completed carton 90 is shown in FIG. 3. FIGS. 4 and 5 illustrate the handle structure H1, in a deployed condition, being used as a carrying handle for the carton 90. The carton 90 comprises an interior volume defined by the main panels 12, 14, 16, 18 and securing panel 20 forming the tubular structure and the end closure panels 22A, 24A, 26A, 28A; 22B, 24B, 26B, 28B. The interior volume is loaded with articles C. The articles C are arranged in rows. The handle structure H1 is located in the top panel 16 so as to be in registry with a space or void defined between two adjacent articles C. In the illustrated embodiment the handle structure H1 is located centrally in the top panel 16, such that it is disposed above the void between the central pair of articles C. In other embodiments where the handle structure H1 is applied to a different size or type of carton, the handle structure H1 is not located centrally. In some such applications, more than one handle structure H1 is provided.

The handle structure H1 is configured for one-handed use. So that the carton 90 can be easily picked up without a user having to correctly orientate the carton 90 the overall handle structure H1 effectively comprises two carrying structures that are mirror images of one another. How the handle structure H1 may be used is described and illustrated predominantly with respect to one side only, it being understood that a user could lift the carton 90 from the other side and the handle structure H1 would be deployed in the same manner.

To deploy the carrying handle H1, a user inserts one or more fingers into the carton 90 folding the main portion 30A internally of the carton 90. The main portion 30A is folded about fold line 31A by approximately 180 degrees.

The top panel of the carton 90 and the main portion 30A are deformed so as to be convex when viewed from an external vantage point. The first and second intermediate portions 36A, 38A are folded substantially about 90 degrees. This has the effect of pulling or folding the first end portion 32A/46A and the second end portion 34A/48A inwardly about the fold lines 35A, 37A respectively.

The first end portion 32A/46A and the second end portion 34A/48A each provide a gripping or engaging member. The first end portion 32A/46A and the second end portion 34A/48A each grip, press against and otherwise contact a respective end of the article C disposed adjacent thereto.

When the handle structure H1 is engaged by a user to lift the carton 90 as shown by direction arrow D in FIGS. 4 and 5, the load of the carton 90 is borne at least in part by the article C which acts as a brace between the first and second end portions 32A/46A, 34A/48A.

The “C” shaped cut lines C1, C2 (C3, C4) serve to redirect load forces into the first and second side walls 14, 18 of the carton 90 so as to increase the strength and durability of the handle structure H1 and to mitigate against a tear propagating into the first and second side walls 14, 18.

It is believed that providing the recesses in the first handle flap between the main portion 30A and each of the first and second end portions 32A/46A, 34A/48A respectively, so as to reduce the height h1 of the respective one of the first and second intermediate portions 36A, 38A, increases the handle strength when compared to a handle structure in which the recesses are omitted.

In some embodiments the height h1 of the first and second intermediate portions 36A, 38A is selected to be about 0.187″ (or about 4.7 mm). This has been found to provide a strong handle which is comfortable to use and in which first and second intermediate portions 36A, 38A are sufficiently dimensioned to enable the first and second intermediate portions 36A, 38A to pull on the first and second end portions 32A/46A, 34A/48A so as to transfer a tensile load or force into the first and second end portions 32A/46A, 34A/48A such that they engage with the ends of the article C.

It is believed that providing the top wall 16 of the carton 90 with aperture A1 provides a handle structure H1 which is intuitive to deploy for the end user. The user will understand that folding the main portion 30A will allow them to readily carry the carton 90.

Referring now to FIGS. 6 to 12, there are shown additional embodiments of the present disclosure. In the second, third and fourth illustrated embodiments, additional like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix “100”, “200” or “300” to indicate that these features belong to the second, third and fourth embodiments respectively. The additional embodiments share many common features with the first embodiment and therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 5 will be described in detail.

FIG. 6 illustrates a blank 110 for forming a carton 190, as shown in FIG. 8, according to a second illustrated embodiment.

The blank 110 comprises a plurality of main panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120 hinged together in a linear series. The plurality of main panels 112, 114, 116, 118, 120 form a tubular structure 190 in a setup condition.

Similarly to the blank 10 of the first embodiment, the blank 110 comprises a base panel 112 hinged to a first side panel 114 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 113. The first side panel 114 is hinged to a top panel 116 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 115. The top panel 116 is hinged to a second side panel 118 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 117. The second side panel 118 is hinged to a securing panel 120 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 119. Again a series of end closure panels 122A, 124A, 126A, 128A; 122B, 124B, 126B, 128B are provided for fully closing each end of the carton 190.

The blank 110 comprises a handle structure H2; FIG. 7 illustrates an enlarged view of the handle structure H2.

Blank 110 is configured for forming a fully enclosed carton 190 of the end loading type. The handle structure H2 is not limited in its application to such a carton 190 or carrier. It will be understood that one or more handle structures H2 may be applied to a carton or carrier and that the carton or carrier may be tubular, fully enclosed, partially enclosed, of the wraparound type and/or of the top gripping type.

The handle structure H2 comprises a first aperture A1 and a second aperture A2. The first aperture A1 is struck in part from the top panel 116 and in part from the first side panel 114. The second aperture A2 is struck in part from the top panel 116 and in part from the second side panel 118. A first cutline or weakened line of severance 144 extends across the top panel 116 between the first aperture A1 and the second aperture A2.

The handle structure H2 comprises a first handle flap disposed on a first side of the first weakened line of severance 144. The first handle flap is hinged to the top panel 116 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 131A, to the first side panel 114 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 135A; and to the second side panel 118 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 137A.

The first handle flap comprises a main portion 130A; a first end portion 132A/146A a second end portion 134A/148A; a first intermediate portion 136A; and a second intermediate portion 138A.

The first intermediate portion 136A interconnects the main portion 130A to the first end portion 132A/146A. The first intermediate portion 136A is hinged to the main portion 130A by a hinged connection such as a fold line 151A. The first intermediate portion 136A is hinged to the first end portion 132A/146A by a hinged connection such as a fold line 139A. Fold line 139A extends between a first end of the fold line 151A and a first end of the first curved fold line 131A.

The second intermediate portion 138A interconnects the main portion 130A to the second end portion 134A/148A. The second intermediate portion 138A is hinged to the main portion 130A by a hinged connection such as a fold line 153A. The second intermediate portion 138A is hinged to the second end portion 134A/148A by a hinged connection such as a fold line 141A. Fold line 141A extends between a second end of the first curved fold line 131A and a second end of the fold line 153A.

The first intermediate portion 136A and the second intermediate portion 138A are each substantially triangular in shape, albeit with a rounded corner and a slightly curved side (defined by fold line 139A).

The main portion 130A may comprise a first optional hinged connection such as a fold line 155A. Fold line 155A extends from the first weakened line of severance 144 to first curved fold line 131A. The fold line 155A defines an optional web panel 152A defined within the main portion 130A. The web panel 152A interconnects the first intermediate portion 136A to a central part of the main portion 130A.

The main portion 130A may comprise a second optional hinged connection such as a second optional fold line 157A. Fold line 157A extends from the first weakened line of severance 144 to first curved fold line 131A. The fold line 157A defines a second optional web panel 154A defined within the main portion 130A. The web panel 154A interconnects the second intermediate portion 138A to a central part of the main portion 130A.

The handle structure H2 comprises a second, optional, handle flap disposed on a second side of the first weakened line of severance 144. The second handle flap is hinged, in opposition to the first handle flap, to the top panel 116 by a hinged connection such as a curved fold line 131B; to the first side panel 114 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 135B; and to the second side panel 118 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 137B.

The second handle flap comprises a main portion 130B; a first end portion 132B/146B; a second end portion 134B/148B; a first intermediate portion 136B; and a second intermediate portion 138B.

The main portion 130A of the first handle flap is separable from the main portion 130B of the second handle flap by severing the first weakened line of severance 144.

The first end portion 132B/146B and the second end portion 134B/148B are each defined in part by a respective one of a second and third cutline or weakened line of severance 144A, 144B. The first weakened line of severance 144 is collinear with the second and third weakened lines of severance 144A, 144B such that the first weakened line of severance 144 may be considered as extending into the first and/or second side walls 114, 118 and alongside the first and/or second end portions 132A/146A, 134A/148A. In alternative embodiments the first weakened line of severance 144, second weakened line of severance 144A and third weakened line of severance 144B may each take the form of a slot or other cutaway.

The handle structure H2 is configured for one-handed use. So that the carton 190 as shown in FIG. 8 can be easily picked up without a user having to correctly orientate the carton 190 the overall handle structure H1 effectively comprises two carrying structures that are mirror images of one another.

FIG. 9 illustrates a blank 210 for forming a carton 290, as shown in FIG. 11, according to a third illustrated embodiment.

The blank 210 comprises a plurality of main panels 212, 214, 216, 218, 220 hinged together in a linear series. The plurality of main panels 212, 214, 216, 218, 220 form a tubular structure in a setup condition.

The blank 210 comprises a base panel 212 hinged to a first side panel 214 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 213. The first side panel 214 is hinged to a top panel 216 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 215. The top panel 216 is hinged to a second side panel 218 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 217. The second side panel 218 is hinged to a securing panel 220 a hinged connection such as a fold line 219.

The blank 210 comprises a handle structure H3; FIG. 10 illustrates an enlarged view of the handle structure H3.

The handle structure H3 comprises a first aperture A1 and a second aperture A2. The first aperture A1 is struck from the top panel 216. The second aperture A2 is struck from the top panel 216. A cutline or weakened line of severance 244 extends across the top panel 216 between the first aperture A1 and the second aperture A2.

The handle structure H3 comprises a first handle flap disposed on a first side of the weakened line of severance 244. The first handle flap is hinged to the top panel 216 by a first curved hinged connection such as a first curved fold line 231A; to the first side panel 214 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 235A; and to the second side panel 218 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 237A.

The first handle flap comprises a main portion 230A; a first end portion 232A/246A; a second end portion 234A/248A; a first intermediate portion 236A; and a second intermediate portion 238A.

The first intermediate portion 236A interconnects the main portion 230A to the first end portion 232A/246A. The first intermediate portion 236A is hinged to the main portion 230A by a hinged connection such as a straight fold line 251A. The first intermediate portion 236A is hinged to the first end portion 232A/246A by a hinged connection such as a straight fold line 239A. Fold line 239A extends between an edge of first aperture A1 and a first end of the fold line 231A.

The second intermediate portion 238A interconnects the main portion 230A to the second end portion 234A/248A. The second intermediate portion 238A is hinged to the main portion 230A by a hinged connection such as a fold line 253A. The second intermediate portion 238A is hinged to the second end portion 234A/248A by a hinged connection such as a fold line 241A. Fold line 241A extends between a second end of the first curved fold line 231A and an edge of second aperture A2.

The first intermediate portion 236A and the second intermediate portion 238A are each substantially trapezoidal in shape.

The first aperture A1 has the effect of reducing the maximum height dimension of the first intermediate portion 236A to be less than the maximum height dimension of the main portion 230A and of the first end portion 232A/246A.

The second aperture A2 has the effect of reducing the maximum height dimension of the second intermediate portion 238A to be less than the maximum height dimension of the main portion 230A and of the second end portion 234A/248A.

The “C” shaped section of the “T” shaped cut lines 240, 242 have been omitted in the third illustrated embodiment.

The handle structure H3 comprises a second, optional, handle flap disposed on a second side of the weakened line of severance 244. The second handle flap is hinged, in opposition to the first handle flap, to the top panel 216 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 231B; to the first side panel 214 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 235B; and to the second side panel 218 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 237B.

The second handle flap comprises a main portion 230B, a first end portion 232B/246B; a second end portion 234B/248B; a first intermediate portion 236B and a second intermediate portion 238B.

The main portion 230A of the first handle flap is separable from the main portion 230B of the second handle flap by severing the weakened line of severance 244.

The handle structure H3 is configured for one-handed use. So that the carton 290 as shown in FIG. 11 can be easily picked up without a user having to correctly orientate the carton 290 the overall handle structure H3 effectively comprises two carrying structures that are mirror images of one another.

FIG. 12 illustrates a portion of a blank 310 for forming a carton (not shown) according to a fourth illustrated embodiment.

The blank 310 comprises a plurality of main panels 314, 316, 318 hinged together in a linear series. The plurality of main panels 314, 316, 318 form a part of a tubular structure of a carton in a setup condition.

The blank 310 comprises a first side panel 314 is hinged to a top panel 316 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 315. The top panel 316 is hinged to a second side panel 318 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 317.

The blank 310 comprises a handle structure H4. The handle structure H4 comprises a first aperture A1 and a second aperture A2. The first aperture A1 is struck from the top panel 316. The second aperture A2 is struck from the top panel 316. A cutline or weakened line of severance 344 extends across the top panel 316 between the first aperture A1 and the second aperture A2.

The handle structure H3 comprises a first handle flap disposed on a first side of the weakened line of severance 344. The first handle flap is hinged to the top panel 316 by a curved hinged connection such as a first curved fold line 331A; to the first side panel 314 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 335A; and to the second side panel 318 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 337A. The fold line 331A extends into the first side panel 314.

The fold line 331A extends into the second side panel 314.

The first handle flap comprises a main portion 330A; a first end portion 332A/346A; a second end portion 334A/348A; a first intermediate portion 336A; and a second intermediate portion 338A.

The first intermediate portion 336A interconnects the main portion 330A to the first end portion 332A/346A. The first intermediate portion 336A is hinged to the main portion 330A by a hinged connection such as a straight fold line 351A. The first intermediate portion 336A is hinged to the first end portion 332A/346A by a hinged connection such as a straight fold line 339A. Fold line 339A extends between an edge of first aperture A1 and a first end of the fold line 331A. The fold line 339A extends into the first side panel 314 to meet an end of the fold line 331A disposed in the first side panel 314.

The second intermediate portion 338A interconnects the main portion 330A to the second end portion 334A/348A. The second intermediate portion 338A is hinged to the main portion 330A by a hinged connection such as a fold line 353A. The second intermediate portion 238A is hinged to the second end portion 334A/348A by a hinged connection such as a fold line 341A. Fold line 341A extends between a second end of the first curved fold line 331A and an edge of second aperture A2. The fold line 341A extends into the second side panel 318 to meet an end of the fold line 331A disposed in the second side panel 318.

The first intermediate portion 236A and the second intermediate portion 238A are each substantially trapezoidal in shape. The first intermediate portion 236A and the second intermediate portion 238A are each defined in part in the respective one of the first and second side panels 314,318. The first intermediate portion 236A can be considered to extend into the first side panel 314. The second intermediate portion 238A can be considered to extend into the second side panel 318.

The first aperture A1 has the effect of reducing the maximum height dimension of the first intermediate portion 336A to be less than the maximum height dimension of the main portion 330A and of the first end portion 332A/346A.

The second aperture A2 has the effect of reducing the maximum height dimension of the second intermediate portion 338A to be less than the maximum height dimension of the main portion 330A and of the second end portion 334A/348A.

The handle structure H4 comprises a second, optional, handle flap disposed on a second side of the weakened line of severance 344. The second handle flap is hinged, in opposition to the first handle flap, to the top panel 316 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 231B; to the first side panel 314 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 335B; and to the second side panel 318 by a hinged connection such as a fold line 337B.

The second handle flap comprises a main portion 330B, a first end portion 332B/346B; a second end portion 334B/348B; a first intermediate portion 336B and a second intermediate portion 338B.

The main portion 230A of the first handle flap is separable from the main portion 330B of the second handle flap by severing the weakened line of severance 344.

The handle structure H4 is configured for one-handed use. So that a carton (not shown) can be easily picked up without a user having to correctly orientate the carton (not shown) the overall handle structure H3 effectively comprises two carrying structures that are mirror images of one another.

It can be appreciated that various changes may be made within the scope of the present invention. For example, the size and shape of the panels and apertures may be adjusted to accommodate articles of differing size or shape. Whereas handle structures of the disclosure have been described and illustrated when applied to a fully enclosed carton of the end loading type, in other applications and embodiments one or more handle structures according to the disclosure may be applied to a carton or carrier that is fully enclosed, partially enclosed, of the wraparound type and/or of the top gripping type.

It will be recognised that as used herein, directional references such as “top”, “bottom”, “base”, “front”, “back”, “end”, “side”, “inner”, “outer”, “upper” and “lower” do not necessarily limit the respective panels to such orientation, but may merely serve to distinguish these panels from one another.

As used herein, the terms “hinged connection” and “fold line” each refers to all manner of lines that define hinge features of the blank, facilitate folding portions of the blank with respect to one another, or otherwise indicate optimal panel folding locations for the blank. A fold line is typically a scored line, an embossed line, or a debossed line. Any reference to “hinged connection” should not be construed as necessarily referring to a single fold line only; indeed a hinged connection can be formed from two or more fold lines without departing from the scope of the invention.

The term “fold line” as used herein refers to any line that defines a hinge line in a foldable sheet material, such as paperboard, for facilitating folding of portions of a blank of sheet material with respect to one another, or otherwise indicating optimal panel folding locations on the blank. A fold line may be formed by a single score, a single half cut, a line of perforations, a line of cuts, a line of short slits, a line of half cuts, a line of scores, any combination thereof, or the like.

As used herein, the term “weakened line of severance” refers to all manner of lines that facilitate separating portions of the substrate from one another or that indicate optimal separation locations. A weakened line of severance may be formed by a single cut, a single half cut, a line of perforations, a line of cuts, a line of short slits, a line of half cuts, any combination thereof, or the like.

It should be understood that hinged connections, weakened lines of severance and fold lines can each include elements that are formed in the substrate of the blank including perforations, a line of perforations, a line of short slits, a line of half-cuts, a single half-cut, a cut line, an interrupted cut line, slits, scores, any combination thereof, and the like. The elements can be dimensioned and arranged to provide the desired functionality. For example, a line of perforations can be dimensioned or designed with degrees of weakness to define a fold line and/or a weakened line of severance. The line of perforations can be designed to facilitate folding and resist breaking to provide a fold line, to facilitate folding and facilitate breaking with more effort to provide a weakened fold line, or to facilitate breaking with little effort to provide a weakened line of severance.

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

As used herein the term “cutaway” refers to all manner of recesses, apertures, cuts, slots, holes and gaps which may be circular, rectangular, capsule shaped, irregular shaped and many other shapes that are pre-formed or pre-defined. A “cutaway” may have a temporary cover thereon which temporary cover is frangibly connected to the carton or blank, optionally by a perforate line, nick connection or other weakened line of severance.

Claims

1. A carton comprising: a top wall, a first side wall hingedly connected to the top wall, and a handle structure formed in the top wall and in the first side wall, the handle structure comprising:

a first handle flap hinged to the top wall and to the first side wall by a first hinged connection, the first handle flap comprising: a first end portion formed at least in part in the first side wall; a first intermediate portion; and a first main portion formed from part of the top wall and being hingedly connected to the first end portion by the first intermediate portion;

and a first cutaway struck at least in part from the first handle flap and disposed adjacent to the first intermediate portion.

2. A carton according to claim 1 wherein the first end portion is formed in part in the top wall.

3. (canceled)

4. (canceled)

5. A carton according to claim 1 wherein the first cutaway is struck at least in part from the top wall.

6. A carton according to claim 5 wherein the first cutaway is struck at least in part from the first side wall.

7. (canceled)

8. (canceled)

9. A carton according to claim 1 wherein the carton further comprises a second side wall connected to an opposite edge of the top wall and wherein the first handle flap comprises:

a second end portion formed at least in part in the second side wall; and

a second intermediate portion;

the first main portion being hingedly connected to the second end portion by the second intermediate portion;

the handle structure further comprising a second cutaway struck at least in part from the first handle flap and disposed adjacent to the second intermediate portion.

10. A carton according to claim 9 wherein the handle structure comprises a third cutaway that is struck, at least in part, from the first main portion and that couples the first cutaway to the second cutaway.

11. (canceled)

12. A carton according to claim 1 wherein the first cutaway extends from a free edge of the first handle flap toward the first hinged connection.

13. A carton according to claim 1 comprising at least one article disposed therein, and wherein the first end portion engages with a portion of a first end of the at least one article when the handle structure is deployed.

14. (canceled)

15. A carton according to claim 1 wherein the handle structure includes a second handle flap hinged by a second hinged connection to the top wall and to the first side wall in opposition to the first handle flap, the second handle flap comprising:

a third end portion formed at least in part in the first side wall;

a third intermediate portion;

a second main portion formed from part of the top wall and being hingedly connected to the third end portion by the third intermediate portion;

a fourth end portion formed at least in part in the second side wall; and

a fourth intermediate portion;

the second main portion being hingedly connected to the fourth end portion by the fourth intermediate portion;

the handle structure further comprising: a third cutaway struck at least in part from the second handle flap and disposed adjacent to the third intermediate portion; and a fourth cutaway struck at least in part from the second handle flap and disposed adjacent to the fourth intermediate portion.

16. A carton according to claim 15 wherein the first and third cutaway form a first aperture defined in the top wall; and wherein the second and fourth cutaway form a second aperture defined in the top wall.

17. (canceled)

18. A carton according to claim 16 wherein the top wall further comprises a feature selected from the group comprising: a slot, a weakened line of separation, a frangible line and a cut line, which feature couples the first aperture to the second aperture.

19. A carton according to claim 18 wherein the feature that couples the first aperture to the second aperture extends into the first and/or second side walls and alongside the first and/or second end portions.

20. A carton according to claim 1 wherein the first handle flap is hinged to the top wall by a first curved fold line.

21. A carton according to claim 20 wherein the first handle flap is hinged to the top wall by a second curved fold line wherein the second curved fold line is curved in opposition to the first curved fold line, the first and second curved folds lines being in touching contact at portions thereof and diverging from each other at first ends thereof.

22. A carton according to claim 21 wherein the first intermediate portion is defined, at least in part by a portion of the top wall disposed between the first and second curved fold lines.

23. (canceled)

24. (canceled)

25. A carton according to claim 1 wherein the first main portion comprises a fold line extending thereacross, from the first hinged connection to an opposing edge thereof, so as to define in part a web panel disposed adjacent to the first intermediate portion.

26. A carton according to claim 1 wherein the first intermediate portion is triangular, three-sided and/or trapezoidal in shape.

27. (canceled)

28. A carton according to claim 1 comprising a plurality of walls forming a tubular structure including a top wall, first side wall, second side wall and a base wall.

29. A handle structure for a carton, the handle structure being formed in a first wall and in a second wall hingedly connected thereto, the handle structure including:

a first handle flap hinged to the first wall and to the second wall by a hinged connection;

the handle flap comprising: a main portion formed from a part of the first wall; and a first end portion formed at least in part from a part of the second wall; the main portion being hingedly connected to the first end portion by an intermediate portion;

a recess struck at least in part from the first handle flap and disposed adjacent to the first intermediate portion.

30. A blank comprising a plurality of panels for forming a carton, the plurality of panels comprising: a top panel and a first side panel;

the blank comprising a handle structure formed in the top panel and in the first side panel,

the handle structure including a handle flap hinged to the top panel and the first side panel by a first hinged connection;

the handle flap comprising: a first end portion formed at least in part from the first side panel; a first intermediate portion; and a first main portion formed from a part of the top panel and being hingedly connected to the first end portion by the first intermediate portion;

the handle structure comprising a first cutaway struck at least in part from the handle flap and disposed adjacent to the first intermediate portion.

31. (canceled)

32. (canceled)

33. (canceled)