ARTICLE CARRIERS AND BLANKS THEREFOR

Aspects of the disclosure relate to article carriers (90; 190; 290) for forming a package and blanks (10; 110; 210; 310) for forming the article carriers (90; 190; 290). The article carrier (90; 190; 290) comprises a first panel (12; 112; 212; 312) and a second panel (14; 114; 214; 314) hinged to the first panel (12; 112; 212; 312) and folded at an angle with respect to the first panel (12; 112; 212; 312). The article carrier (90; 190; 290) comprises an article-engaging feature (RT) formed from at least one of the first and second panels (12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314). The article carrier (90; 190; 290) comprises a locking feature (L; L1, L2) including a locking tab (50; 150; 250; 350) formed from the first and second panels (12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314) and a locking edge (56; 156; 256; 356) provided by one of the first and second panels (12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314). The locking tab (50; 150; 250; 350) is hinged to the other of the first and second panels (12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314). The locking tab (50; 150; 250; 350) engages with the engaging edge (56; 156; 256; 356) locking the first and second panels (12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314) in the folded position.

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Description
TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to packages, to article carriers, to blanks for forming article carriers, and to methods for forming the same. More specifically, but not exclusively, the invention relates to a package comprising a carrier having a main panel comprising one or more apertures for receiving an article and a wing panel for display of indicia.

BACKGROUND

In the field of packaging it is known to provide cartons for carrying multiple articles. Cartons are well known in the art and are useful for enabling consumers to transport, store and access a group of articles for consumption. For cost and environmental considerations, such cartons or carriers 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. Further considerations are the strength of the carton and its suitability for holding and transporting a weight of grouped articles. It is desirable that the contents of the carton are securely held by the carton and that the cartons or carriers are easy for a consumer to grasp and carry.

It is an object of the present disclosure to provide an article carrier for substantially cylindrical articles having a minimalistic appearance and having a display panel.

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

SUMMARY

A first aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for packaging a plurality of articles. The article carrier comprises a first panel and a second panel hingedly connected to the first panel. The article carrier is arranged in a folded position where the second panel is disposed at an angle with respect to the first panel. The article carrier comprises an article-engaging feature for engaging an article and formed from at least one of the first and second panels. The article carrier comprises a locking feature for locking the second panel in the folded position. The locking feature comprises a locking tab formed from the first and second panels and a locking edge provided by one of the first and second panels. The locking tab is hingedly connected to the other of the first and second panels and is disposed at an angle with respect to each of the first and second panels. The locking tab is in engagement with the locking edge such that the first and second panels are locked in the folded position.

Optionally, the locking tab is obliquely disposed with respect to the other of the first and second panels.

Optionally, the locking feature comprises a cushioning tab.

Optionally, the cushioning tab is hingedly connected to the said one of the first and second panels by a first hinged connection.

Optionally, the cushioning tab is detachably connected to the locking tab along a severance line.

Optionally, the severance line is broken before the tab is activated.

Optionally, the cushioning tab is fully separated from the locking tab by a cut.

Optionally, the cushioning tab is hingedly connected to the locking tab by a second hinged connection.

Optionally, the cushioning tab is folded upwards about the first hinged connection to the first or second panel so as to yield the locking tab.

Optionally, the cushioning tab is folded downwards about the first hinged connection to the first or second panel so as to yield the locking tab.

Optionally, the cushioning tab remains unfolded to provide a stopper edge on which the locking tab is brought into abutment to limit its pivotal movement.

Optionally, the locking feature comprises an engaging protrusion for engaging said one of the first and second panels.

Optionally, the locking feature comprises an opening defined at least in part by the locking tab, the opening comprises a receiving region, the receiving region is defined by a portion of the locking tab.

Optionally, the portion of the locking tab defines the receiving region is provided by a first end of the locking tab, the first end opposes a second end, the second end is defined by a hinged connection to the other of the first and second panels.

Optionally, the locking tab comprises an engaging region, the engaging region is provided by a portion of the locking tab which would otherwise form said one of the first and second panels and by a portion of the locking tab which would otherwise form the other of the first and second panels.

Optionally, the locking tab is hingedly connected to the other of the first and second panels by a third hinged connection, the third hinged connection is disposed a first distance from a fourth hinged connection between the first and second panels, and wherein the locking tab comprises a detent providing an edge for engaging said one of the first and second panels, the detent being disposed a second distance from the third hinged connection, the second distance is equal to or greater than the first distance.

Optionally, the opening comprises a constriction having a first width dimension, and the locking tab comprises an engaging region, the engaging region has a second width dimension, the second width dimension is greater than the first width dimension.

A second aspect of the invention provides a package comprising an article carrier and a plurality of articles arranged in a group. The article carrier comprises a first panel and a second panel hingedly connected to the first panel. The article carrier is arranged in a folded position where the second panel is disposed at an angle with respect to the first panel. The article carrier comprises a plurality of article-engaging features in engagement with a respective one of the plurality of articles. The plurality of article-engaging features is formed from at least one of the first and second panels. The second panel is folded about a side of the group of articles. The group of articles inhibits further folding of the second panel. The article carrier comprises a locking feature for locking the second panel in the folded position and inhibiting unfolding of the second panel away from the side of the group of articles. The locking feature comprises a locking tab formed from the first and second panels and a locking edge provided by one of the first and second panels. The locking tab is hingedly connected to the other of the first and second panels and is disposed at an angle with respect to each of the first and second panels. The locking tab is in engagement with the locking edge such that the first and second panels are locked in the folded position.

A third aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier. The blank comprises a first panel and a second panel hingedly connected to the first panel. The second panel is foldable to take a folded position where the second panel is disposed at an angle with respect to the first panel. The blank comprises an article-engaging feature for engaging an article and formed from at least one of the first and second panels. The blank comprises a locking feature for locking the second panel in the folded position. The locking feature comprises a locking tab formed from the first and second panels and a locking edge provided by one of the first and second panels. The locking tab is hingedly connected to the other of the first and second panels such that the locking tab is pivotable to a locking position in which the locking tab is disposed at an angle with respect to each of the first and second panels and is in engagement with the locking edge.

A fifth aspect of the invention provides a method of forming a package comprising:

    • applying an article carrier to a plurality of articles arranged in a group, the article carrier comprises a first panel and a second panel hingedly connected to the first panel, the first panel comprises a plurality of article-engaging features, each of the plurality of article-engaging features receives a respective one of the plurality of articles,
    • folding the second panel with respect to the first panel, to be disposed at an angle with respect to the first panel, about a side of the group of articles, the group of articles inhibits further folding of the second panel; and
    • engaging a locking feature, the locking feature comprises a locking tab formed from the first and second panels and a locking edge provided by one of the first and second panels, the locking tab is hingedly connected to the other of the first and second panels, the step of engaging the locking feature comprises:
      • folding the locking tab to be disposed at an angle with respect to each of the first and second panels.

Optionally, the step of engaging the locking feature comprises inserting an engaging portion of the locking tab into a receiving region of an opening in said one of the first and second panels such that the locking tab is in engagement with the locking edge thereby locking the second panel in the folded position and inhibiting unfolding of the second panel away from the side of the group of articles.

Optionally, the step of inserting the engaging portion of the locking tab comprises pressing the locking tab through a constriction in opening provided by said one of the first and second panels.

Optionally, the method further comprises pre-folding the locking tab prior to folding the second panel with respect to the first panel by at least temporarily displacing the locking tab out of the plane of the other of the first and second panels.

Optionally, the step of pre-folding the locking tab severs a frangible connection between the locking tab and a second tab struck from said one of the first and second panels and hingedly connected thereto.

Optionally, the step of pre-folding the locking tab creates the receiving region of the opening in the one of the first and second panel.

Within the scope of this application it is envisaged or 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 considered or taken independently or in any combination thereof.

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

A feature, or combination of features, of an embodiment disclosed herein may be extracted in isolation from other features of that embodiment. Alternatively, a feature, or combination of features, of an embodiment may be omitted from that embodiment.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

Exemplary embodiments of the invention 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 an article carrier according to a first embodiment;

FIGS. 1a and 1b are enlarged views of a portion of the blank of FIG. 1;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view from above of an article carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming an article carrier according to a second embodiment;

FIG. 4 is a perspective view from above of an article carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming an article carrier according to a third embodiment;

FIG. 6 is a perspective view from above of an article carrier formed from the blank of FIG. 5; and

FIG. 7 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming an article carrier according to a fourth embodiment.

 DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of the packages, blanks and carriers are disclosed herein. It will be understood that the disclosed embodiments are merely examples of the way in which certain aspects of the invention can be implemented and do not represent an exhaustive list of all of the ways the invention 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 and carriers described herein may be embodied in various and alternative forms. The Figures are not necessarily to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show details of particular components. Well-known components, materials or methods are not necessarily described in great detail in order to avoid obscuring the present disclosure. Any specific structural and functional details disclosed herein are not to be interpreted as limiting, but merely as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching one skilled in the art to variously employ the invention.

Referring to FIG. 1, there is shown a plan view of a blank 10 which is capable of forming a carton or carrier 90, as shown in FIG. 2. The carrier 90 is suitable for containing and carrying a group of primary products such as, but not limited to, bottles or cans, hereinafter referred to as articles B. The blank 10 forms a secondary package 90 that packages at least one primary product container B. Alternative blanks 110; 210; 310 are shown in FIGS. 3, 5, and 7 for forming an alternative carton or carriers 190; 290.

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 and carrying articles, such as primary product containers (articles B). It is contemplated that the teachings of the invention can be applied to various product containers, which may or may not be tapered and/or cylindrical. Exemplary containers may include bottles (for example metallic, glass or plastics bottles), cans (for example aluminum cans), tins, pouches, packets and the like.

The blanks 10, 110, 210, 310 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 carrier structure 90 described in more detail below.

The packaging structures or cartons 90; 190; 290, described herein, may be formed from a sheet material such as paperboard, which may be made of or coated with materials to increase its strength. An example of such a sheet material is tear-resistant NATRALOCK® paperboard made by WestRock Company. It should be noted that the tear resistant materials may be provided by more than one layer, to help improve the tear-resistance of the package. Typically, one surface of the sheet material may have different characteristics to the other surface. For example, the surface of the sheet material that faces outwardly from a finished package may be particularly smooth and may have a coating such as a clay coating or other surface treatment to provide good printability. The surface of the sheet material that faces inwardly may, on the other hand, be provided with a coating, a layer, a treatment or be otherwise prepared to provide properties such as one or more of tear-resistance, good glue-ability, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties.

In the illustrated embodiments, the blanks 10; 110; 210; 310 are configured to form a carton or carrier 90 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles B. In the embodiments illustrated, the arrangement is a 4×2 matrix or array. In the illustrated embodiments four rows of two articles are provided, and the articles B are beverage cans. Alternatively, the blanks 10; 110; 210; 310 can be configured to form a carrier for packaging other types, number and size of articles and/or for packaging articles in a different arrangement or configuration.

FIG. 1 illustrates a first embodiment and shows the blank 10 for forming the article carrier 90 shown in FIG. 2. The carrier 90 takes the form of a top gripping clip. The article carrier 90 comprises openings configured to receive the articles B. The openings are arranged to accommodate a neck or upper portion of an article B, above a main body and/or shoulders of the article B.

The blank 10 comprises a main or engaging panel 12. The engaging panel 12 comprises a plurality of article retention structures RT, each article retention structure RT provides an article receiving opening for receiving a respective article B. The article retention structures RT may comprise an article receiving aperture A1 about which a plurality of teeth or tabs 44 may be disposed. Each of the teeth 44 is struck from the engaging panel 12 and is hingedly connected thereto. Each tooth 44 may be defined, in part, by a pair of cut lines 43, 45. The cut lines 43, 45 extend radially outward from a centre of the article receiving aperture A1.

Each of the plurality of teeth 44 comprises an engaging edge opposing a hinged edge. The engaging edges are defined by a linear portion of a cut line defining the aperture A1.

The retention structures RT may each comprise sixteen tabs 44, and each tab 44 may comprise a linear engaging edge which defines a part of the article receiving aperture A1. The article receiving aperture A1 may be a polygon, in the illustrated embodiment a hexadecagon.

Each engaging edge defines a part of the hexadecagon.

The plurality of teeth 44, or at least free edges thereof, may define or approximate a notional circle.

The plurality of teeth 44 are hinged to the main panel 12 by a fold line. The fold line may be defined by a plurality of cut lines 47, 49. The plurality of cut lines 47, 49 may define or approximate a circle.

Each tooth 44 comprises a pair of side edges, the side edges are defined by the cut lines 43, 45 extending radially outward from respective vertices of the hexadecagon. That is to say from a respective vertex between a pair of adjacent linear portions of the cut line defining the aperture A1. The cut lines 43, 45 are divergently arranged with respect to each other and define an angle therebetween, the angle may be about 22.5°.

The article retention structures RT may comprise a plurality of first circumferential cut lines 47. Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 47 is aligned with one of the radial cut lines 43, 45 such that said one of the radial cut lines 43, 45 or a notional extension thereof bisects a respective one of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 47.

Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 47 may be spaced apart from said one of the radial cut lines 43, 45 bisecting it so as to define a connecting nick or bridge portion between a pair of adjacently disposed teeth 44.

Each of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 47 may be linear in shape. In other embodiments they may be arcuate or curvilinear.

The article retention structures RT may comprise a plurality of second circumferential cut lines 49. Each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 49 is disposed between a pair of the plurality of first circumferential cut lines 47 and is spaced apart therefrom so as to define a pair of connecting nick or bridge portions between each tooth 44 and the main panel 12. The pair of connecting nick or bridge portions provide a hinged or foldable connection between each tooth 44 and the main panel 12.

Each of the plurality of second circumferential cut lines 42 may be linear in shape. In other embodiments they may be arcuate or curvilinear.

The blank 10 may comprise a handle structure. The handle structure comprises one, two, three or more handle or finger openings spaced apart from each other.

The handle or finger openings are disposed on a longitudinal axis bisecting the engaging panel 12.

A first opening Ha1 is provided between a first group of four article retention structures RT. The first group of four article retention structures RT is provided adjacent a first end of the engaging panel 12. The first opening Ha1 is disposed between a first row of article retention structures RT and a second row of article retention structures RT. The first opening Ha1 is located at the centre of the first group of four article retention structures RT.

A second opening Ha2 is provided between a second group of four article retention structures RT. The second group of four article retention structures RT is provided medially of the engaging panel 12. The second opening Ha2 is disposed between the second row of article retention structures RT and a third row of article retention structures RT. The second opening Ha2 is located at the centre of the second group of four article retention structures RT.

A third opening Ha3 is provided between a third group of four article retention structures RT. The third group of four article retention structures RT is provided adjacent a second end of the engaging panel 12. The third opening Ha3 is disposed between the third row of article retention structures RT and a fourth row of article retention structures RT. The third opening Ha3 is located at the centre of the third group of four article retention structures RT.

The first, second and third openings Ha1, Ha2, Ha3 lie, at least in part, between a first column of article retention structures RT and a second column of article retention structures RT.

Each of the handle openings Ha1, Ha2, Ha3 is defined by a plurality of tabs 16, 18, 20, 22. The second and third handle openings Ha2, Ha3 are substantially similar in construction to each other. The first handle opening Ha1 is substantially similar in construction to the second and third handle openings Ha2, Ha3 albeit a mirror image thereof. The handle openings Ha1, Ha2, Ha3 will be described in further detail by reference to the second handle opening Ha2 shown in FIG. 1B.

Each handle opening Ha1, Ha2, Ha3 comprises four tabs 16, 18, 20, 22. Each tab 16, 18, 20, 22 is hinged to the engaging panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 17, 19, 21, 23. An arcuate or curvilinear cut line 31, 33, 35, 37 may be provided between each fold line 17, 19, 21, 23 to define a corner or vertex of the handle openings Ha1, Ha2, Ha3. Each of the handle openings Ha1, Ha2, Ha3 is substantially rhombus or diamond shaped, in other embodiments other shapes may be employed such as, but not limited to square. Each handle opening Ha1, Ha2, Ha3 comprises a pair of major tabs 16, 18 and a pair of minor tabs 20, 22.

A first major tab 16 is separated from a second major tab 18 by a first cut line or severable line 25. A first minor tab 20 is separated from a second minor tab 22 by the first cut line or severable line 25.

The first and second minor tabs 20, 22 are separated from the first and second major tabs 16, 18 by a second cut line or severable line 27.

The first cut line 25 may be linear in shape and may extend between a first pair of opposed vertices of the handle opening Ha1, Ha2, Ha3.

The second cut line 27 may be non-linear in shape and may extend between a second pair of opposed vertices of the handle opening Ha1, Ha2, Ha3. The second cut line 27 intersects the first cutline 25, the second cut line 27 comprises a “V” shaped medial portion; a vertex of the “V” shaped portion intersects the first cutline 25.

The first major tab 16 is hinged to the engaging panel 12 by a first fold line 17. The second major tab 18 is hinged to the engaging panel 12 by a second fold line 19.

The first minor tab 20 is hinged to the engaging panel 12 by a third fold line 21. The second minor tab 22 is hinged to the engaging panel 12 by a fourth fold line 23.

The first fold line 17 is divergently arranged with respect to the second fold line 19.

The first fold line 17 is divergently arranged with respect to the third fold line 21.

The second fold line 19 is divergently arranged with respect to the fourth fold line 23.

The third fold line 21 is divergently arranged with respect to the fourth fold line 23.

Optionally, the blank 10 comprises a first recess or cutaway R1 struck from a first side edge. The first recess or cutaway R1 lies upon a notional line extending laterally of the blank 10 and bisecting the blank 10. In this way the first recess or cutaway R1 lies between the second and third rows of article retention structures RT.

The blank 10 comprises a second or wing panel 14, also referred to herein as a front panel 14 or display panel 14. The wing panel 14 is hingedly connected to the main panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 13.

The wing panel 14 is configured to be folded to define a non-zero angle with respect to the main panel 12. In the illustrated embodiment the wing panel 14 is configured to be folded to be substantially perpendicular with respect to the main panel 12, although in other embodiments the wing panel 14 may adopt a different angle with respect to the main panel 12.

The blank 10 comprises a locking device or feature L. The locking device L comprises a locking tab 50 formed in part from the main panel 12 and in part from the wing panel 14. The locking tab 50 is hingedly connected to the wing panel 14 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 51.

The main panel 12 comprises a receiver or opening defined at least in part by the locking tab 50. The opening defines a pair of opposed edges in the main panel 12. A portion of each of the pair of opposed edges in the main panel 12 provides an engaging or locking edge 56. The receiver or opening may be defined at least in part by a second tab 52 (also referred to herein as a cushioning tab 52). The second tab 52 is hingedly connected to the main panel 12 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 55.

The second tab 52 may be frangibly connected to the locking tab 50 by a frangible line 57. The frangible line 57 may comprise two or more outlines separated by a connecting nick or bridge portion N. In other embodiments the second tab 52 may be separated from the locking tab 50 by a cutaway in the form of a cut line, aperture, slot or slit.

The opening is shaped so as to define a waist or constriction. The constriction has a first width dimension d1 as shown in FIG. 1b. The locking tab 50 comprises an engaging region 50a as shown by the shaded region in FIG. 1a.

The engaging region 50a has a second width dimension d2 as shown in FIG. 1b. The second width dimension d2 is equal to, or greater than (as illustrated in FIG. 1b), the first width dimension d1.

The opening comprises a receiving region R shown as a shaded region in FIG. 1a. The receiving region R comprises a maximum width dimension d4 which is greater than the first width dimension d1. The maximum width dimension d4 of the receiving region R may be equal to, or greater than (as illustrated in FIG. 1b), the second width dimension d2.

The opening in the main panel 12 is tapered in shape. The portion of the opening defined by the second tab 52 may be substantially trapezoidal in shape. The portion of the opening defined by the second tab 52 may be tapered towards a first end thereof, the first end is defined by the fold line 55. The second tab 52 comprises a free edge opposing a hinged edge defined by the fold line 55. The free edge may define a maximum width dimension of the second tab 52.

The free edge of the second tab 52 may be substantially equal in length to the second width dimension d2.

The receiving region R of the opening has a minimum width dimension which is substantially equal to the second width dimension d2. The receiving region R of the opening provides a first end stop limiting or inhibiting travel of movement of the locking tab 50. The first end stop is provided by a pair of shoulders 56 each of which provides an engaging or abutment edge in the main panel 12. The shoulders 56 of the opening are defined by a cutline 53, cutline 53 defines the shape of the tab 50, the cut line 53 is common to both the opening and tab 50. The cut line 53 defines a pair of opposed recesses in the tab 50 proximate a free end of the tab 50, the free end opposes a hinged end defined by fold line 51. In this way the locking feature L does not require any apertures or cut outs; the opening is entirely defined or filled by the tab 50. The opening is created by folding the blank 10. The tab 50 is shaped complementary to the opening.

An end portion of the tab 50 defines the receiving region R of the opening.

The receiving region R of the opening may provide a second end stop limiting or inhibiting travel of movement of the locking tab 50 away from the shoulders 56. The second end stop may be provided by opposing tapered edges of the main panel 12. The second end stop may be provided by the free edge of the second tab 52.

The engaging region 50a of locking tab 50 defines a waist. The first locking tab 50 comprises a tapered region on a first side of the engaging region 50a located between the fold line 51 and the engaging region 50a. The engaging region 50a, in the blank form, is disposed astride the fold line 13. The engaging region 50a is provided by a portion of the locking tab 50 which would otherwise form the wing panel 14 and by a portion of the locking tab 50 which would otherwise form the main panel 12. The tapered region narrows towards the engaging region 50a. The locking tab 50 comprises a pair of lugs or projections 54 each provide an edge to form a detent. The lugs 54 are arranged in opposition to each other and extend outwardly from opposing sides of the locking tab 50 adjacent to a second, opposing, side of the engaging region 50a. The lugs 54 are struck from material which would otherwise form part of the main panel 12. The lugs 54 define a third width dimension d3 which is greater than the maximum width dimension d4 of the region R.

The fold line 51 is spaced a first distance z from the fold line 13 between the main panel 12 and the wing panel 14. The detent (lugs 54) is spaced a second distance y from the fold line 51. The second distance y is greater than the first distance z.

The detent (lugs 54) is spaced a third distance w from the free end of the tab 50. The length of the tab 50 is defined by the sum of the third distance w and the second distance y.

The edges of the tab 50 defining the detent are struck from the main panel 12. The engaging or abutment edges of the opening are struck from the main panel 12 and are spaced a fourth distance x from the edges of the tab 50 defining the detent in the blank form.

The fourth distance x is less than the third distance w.

The free end of the tab 50 is spaced a fifth distance u from the fold line 13 between the main panel 12 and the wing panel 14. The engaging or abutment edges of the opening are spaced a sixth distance v from the fold line 13 between the main panel 12 and the wing panel 14. The sixth distance v is less than the fifth distance u.

The ratio of first distance z and the sixth distance v defines the angle of the tab 50 with respect to the main panel 12 and to the wing panel 14.

The difference between third distance w and fourth distance x defines a depth dimension of the engaging region R.

The locking tab 50, second handle opening Ha2 and recess R are collinearly arranged and may lie upon a notional line which bisects the main panel 12 in a transverse direction. The locking tab 50, is arranged to be aligned with a portion of the main panel 12 disposed medially of the second group of four article retention structures RT. That is to say between the second and third rows of article retention structures RT

The blank 10 forms a carrier 90, the blank 10 is lowered with respect to a group of articles B. Each article receiving opening of the retention structures RT receives one of the articles B forming the group of articles B. An end closure or upper end of the articles B passes through the article receiving openings. The tabs 44 fold out of the plane of the engaging panel 12. The tabs 44 fold upwardly. The tabs 44 engage an article B below a flange or projection extending radially outward of the article B. The tabs 44 support the article B and inhibit movement or withdrawal of the article B from the opening.

The locking tab 50 may be pre-folded or pre-broken by partially folding, at least temporarily, the locking tab 50 out of the plane of the blank 10.

The wing panel 14 is then folded with respect to the main panel 12, about fold line 13. The wing panel 14 is folded about a side of the group of articles B. The wing panel 14 may be folded to be substantially perpendicular with respect to the main panel 12. The locking tab 50 remains coplanar with the wing panel 14. The second tab 52 may be substantially coplanar with the main panel 12.

The locking tab 50 is then folded with respect to the wing panel 14 about fold line 51. The locking tab 50 is pressed or pushed inwardly into the opening in the main panel 12 created by folding wing panel 14 with respect to the main panel 12.

The locking tab 50 is pressed through the constriction in the opening into the receiving region R of the opening. The locking tab 50 and/or the main panel 12 may deform sufficiently to allow the locking tab 50 to pass through the constriction; subsequently the locking tab 50 and/or the main panel 12 substantially return to their undeformed position.

The second tab 52 may encourage the locking tab 50 into engagement with the abutment edges 56. The abutment edges 56 prevent or inhibit the locking tab 50 from returning or unfolding towards a coplanar arrangement with the wing panel 14.

The lugs 54 prevent or inhibit the locking tab 50 from sliding downwardly though the opening. The lugs 54 prevent or inhibit the wing panel 14 from unfolding or returning towards a coplanar arrangement with the main panel 12.

Referring now to FIGS. 3, to 7, there are shown additional embodiments of the present disclosure. In the second, third, and fourth illustrated embodiments like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix “100”, “200”, “300” to indicate that these features belong to the second, third, or fourth embodiment respectively. The additional embodiments share many common features with the first embodiment and therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 1, 1a, 1b and 2 will be described in detail.

FIG. 3 illustrates a second embodiment and shows a blank 110 for forming an article carrier 190 as shown in FIG. 4.

The blank 110 comprises an engaging panel 112. The engaging panel 112 comprises a plurality of retention structures RT, each retention structure RT provides an article receiving opening for receiving a respective article. The retention structures RT are substantially similar in construction to those described above in relation to the first illustrated embodiment and will not be described in further detail.

The blank 110 comprises a pair of wing panels 114a, 114b each hinged to the engaging panel 112 by a fold line 113a, 113b.

The wing panels 114a, 114b are hinged to opposing sides of the engaging panel 112. A first wing panel 114a is hinged to a first side of the engaging panel 112. A second wing panel 114b is hinged to a second side of the engaging panel 112.

Each of the first and second wing panels 114a, 114b extends partially along the respective side edge of the engaging panel 112 to which it is hinged. The first wing panel 114a is disposed adjacent to third and fourth rows of article retention structures RT. The second wing panel 114b is disposed adjacent to first and second rows of article retention structures RT. The first wing panel 114a diagonally opposes the second wing panel 114b.

In some embodiments the second wing panel 114b may be transversely opposite the first wing panel 114a.

In other embodiments the first wing panel 114a may diametrically oppose the second wing panel 114b, that is to say the first and second wing panels 114a, 114b are centrally or medially located with respect to the main panel 112 and transversely opposite.

The blank 110 comprises a pair of locking devices L1, L2. A first locking device L1 is configured to secure the first wing panel 114a in a folded condition with respect to the engaging panel 112. A second locking device L2 is configured to secure the second wing panel 114b in a folded condition with respect to the engaging panel 112.

Each of the first and second locking devices L1, L2 is substantially similar in construction to the locking device L described above in relation to the first illustrated embodiment and will not be described in further detail; albeit in the second illustrated embodiment a second tab 152 is separated from a locking tab 150 by a cut line and a tapered region of the locking tab 150 is flared in shaped towards a hinged connection 151 between the locking tab 150 and the respective one of the first and second wing panels 114a, 114b. The locking tabs 150 are flared to a greater extent than the first illustrated embodiment, and consequently the fold line 151 is longer in length.

The locking tab 150 of the first locking device L1 is collinearly arranged with a third handle opening Ha3 and may lie upon a notional line which bisects a third group of four article retention structures RT in a transverse direction. The locking tab 150 of the first locking device L1, is arranged to be aligned with a portion of the main panel 112 disposed medially of the third group of four article retention structures RT. That is to say between the third and fourth rows of article retention structures RT.

The locking tab 150 of the second locking device L2 is collinearly arranged with a first handle opening Ha1 and may lie upon a notional line which bisects a first group of four article retention structures RT in a transverse direction. The locking tab 150 of the second locking device L2, is arranged to be aligned with a portion of the main panel 112 disposed medially of the first group of four article retention structures RT. That is to say between the first and second rows of article retention structures RT.

The engaging panel 112 comprises a pair of recesses struck from, or defined in, opposing side edges thereof. The pair of recesses and a second handle opening Ha2 are collinearly arranged and may lie upon a notional line which bisects the main panel 112 in a transverse direction.

The blank 110 comprises a handle structure. The handle structure comprises a plurality of handle or finger openings Ha1, Ha2, Ha3 spaced apart from each other.

The handle or finger openings Ha1, Ha2, Ha3 are disposed on a longitudinal axis x-x bisecting the engaging panel 112.

The handle structure illustrated comprises three handle or finger openings Ha1, Ha2, Ha3.

A first opening Ha1 is provided between a first group of four article retention structures RT. The first group of four article retention structures RT is provided adjacent a first end of the engaging panel 112. The first opening Ha1 is disposed between a first row of article retention structures RT and a second row of article retention structures RT. The first opening Ha1 is located at the centre of the first group of four article retention structures RT.

A second opening Ha2 is provided between a second group of four article retention structures RT. The second group of four article retention structures RT is provided medially of the engaging panel 112. The second opening Ha2 is disposed between the second row of article retention structures RT and a third row of article retention structures RT. The second opening Ha2 is located at the centre of the second group of four article retention structures RT.

A third opening Ha3 is provided between a third group of four article retention structures RT. The third group of four article retention structures RT is provided adjacent a second end of the engaging panel 112. The third opening Ha3 is disposed between the third row of article retention structures RT and a fourth row of article retention structures RT. The third opening Ha3 is located at the centre of the third group of four article retention structures RT.

The first, second and third openings Ha1, Ha2, Ha3 lie between a first column of article retention structures RT and a second column of article retention structures RT.

Each of the handle openings Ha1, Ha2, Ha3 is defined by a plurality of tabs 180, 182, 184, 186. Each of the handle openings Ha1, Ha2, Ha3 may be substantially diamond shaped.

Each of the handle openings Ha1, Ha2, Ha3 comprise four tabs 180, 182, 184, 186. Each tab 180, 182, 184, 186 is hinged to the engaging panel 112 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 183. An arcuate or curvilinear cut line may be provided between adjacent pairs of the fold lines 183 to define corners or vertexes of the handle openings Ha1, Ha2, Ha3. The handle openings Ha1, Ha2, Ha3 comprises an aperture A2 struck from the engaging panel 112. The aperture A1 is centrally located between the tabs 180, 182, 184, 186 and defines a free edge of each tab 180, 182, 184, 186. The aperture A1 may be substantially diamond shaped. Each tab 180, 182, 184, 186 may be frangibly connected to the adjacently disposed tabs 180, 182, 184, 186.

FIG. 5 illustrates a third embodiment and shows a blank 210 for forming an article carrier 290 as shown in FIG. 6.

The blank 210 comprises an engaging panel 212. The engaging panel 212 comprises a plurality of retention structures RT, each retention structure RT provides an article receiving opening for receiving a respective article. The retention structures RT are substantially similar in construction to those described above in relation to the first illustrated embodiment and will not be described in further detail.

The blank 210 comprises a handle structure. The handle structure is substantially similar in construction to that described above in relation to the second illustrated embodiment and will not be described in further detail.

The blank 210 comprises a pair of wing panels 214a, 214b each hinged to the engaging panel 212 by a fold line 213a, 213b.

The wing panels 214a, 214b are hinged to opposing sides of the engaging panel 212. A first wing panel 214a is hinged to a first side of the engaging panel 212. A second wing panel 214b is hinged to a second side of the engaging panel 212.

Each of the first and second wing panels 214a, 214b extends substantially along the entire length of the respective side edge of the engaging panel 212 to which it is hinged.

The blank 210 comprises a plurality of locking devices L1, L2.

The blank 210 comprises a pair of locking devices L1 configured to secure the first wing panel 214a in a folded condition with respect to the engaging panel 212.

The blank 210 comprises a pair of locking devices L2 is configured to secure the second wing panel 214b in a folded condition with respect to the engaging panel 212.

Each of the first and second locking devices L1, L2 is similar in construction to the locking devices described above in relation to the foregoing embodiments, and only the differences will be described in further detail.

The locking tab 250 of the locking device L1, L2 is hingedly connected to a second tab 252 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 259. Fold 259 may comprise or may be defined by a cut line 259 partially extending across the locking tab 250. In the assembled condition, as shown in FIG. 6, the second tab 252 is folded out of the plane of the main panel 212.

The second tab 252 encourages the locking tab 250 towards or against the abutment edges 256.

FIG. 7 illustrates a fourth embodiment and shows a blank 310 for forming an article carrier (not shown).

The blank 310 comprises an engaging panel 312. The engaging panel 312 comprises a plurality of retention structures RT, each retention structure RT provides an article receiving opening for receiving a respective article. The retention structures RT are substantially similar in construction to those described above in relation to the first illustrated embodiment and will not be described in further detail.

The blank 310 comprises a handle structure. The handle structure is substantially similar in construction to that described above in relation to the first illustrated embodiment and will not be described in further detail.

The blank 310 comprises a second or wing panel 314, also referred to herein as a front panel 314 or display panel 314. The wing panel 314 is hingedly connected to the main panel 312 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 313.

The wing panel 314 extends partially along a side edge of the engaging panel 312 to which it is hinged. The wing panel 314 is disposed adjacent to second and third rows of article retention structures RT. The wing panel 314 is medially located along the side edge of the engaging panel 312.

The wing panel 314 is configured to be folded to define a non-zero angle with respect to the main panel 312. The wing panel 314 may be configured to be folded to be substantially perpendicular with respect to the main panel 312.

The blank 310 comprises a locking device or feature L. The locking device L comprises a locking tab 350 formed in part from the main panel 312 and in part from the wing panel 314. The locking device L comprises a second tab 352.

The locking device L is similar in construction to the locking device L described above in relation to the first illustrated embodiment albeit it has been inverted or reversed. The locking tab 350 is hingedly connected to the main panel 312 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 351 and the second tab 352 is struck from, or defined in, the wing panel 314. The second tab 352 is hingedly connected to the wing panel 314 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 355.

In an assembled condition the locking tab 350 extends through an opening in the wing panel 314 and engages or abuts shoulders 356 provided by the wing panel 314.

The present disclosure provides a carrier 90; 190; 290, and a blank 10; 110; 210; 310 for forming the carrier 90, having a main panel 12; 112; 212; 312 with openings for receiving at least one article B. A second panel 14; 114; 214; 314 is hingedly connected to the main panel 12; 112; 212; 312 and comprises a locking feature L; L1, L2 for securing the second panel 14; 114; 214; 314 in a folded condition with respect to the main panel 12; 112; 212; 312.

Embodiments provide an article carrier 90; 190; 290 comprising a first panel 12; 112; 212; 312 and a second panel 14; 114; 214; 314, hingedly connected to the first panel 12; 112; 212; 312, and disposed at a folded position where the second panel 14; 114; 214; 314 is disposed at an angle with respect to the first panel 12; 112; 212; 312. The article carrier 90; 190; 290 comprises an article-engaging feature RT for engaging an article B and formed from at least one of the first and second panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314. The article carrier 90; 190; 290 comprises a locking feature L; L1, L2 for locking the second panel 14; 114; 214; 314 in the folded position. The locking feature L; L1, L2 comprises a locking tab 50; 150; 250; 350 formed from the first and second panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314 and a locking edge 56; 156; 256; 356 provided by one of the first and second panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314. The locking tab 50; 150; 250; 350 is hingedly connected to the other of the first and second panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314 and is disposed at an angle with respect to each of the first and second panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314. The locking tab 50; 150; 250; 350 is in engagement with the engaging edge 56; 156; 256; 356 such that the first and second panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314 are locked in the folded position.

The locking tab 50; 150; 250; 350 may be obliquely disposed with respect to the other of the first and second panels 12, 14; 112, 114, 212, 214; 312, 314.

Embodiments provide a blank 10; 110; 210; 310 for forming an article carrier 90; 190; 290 comprising a first panel 12; 112; 212; 312 and a second panel 14; 114; 214; 314 hingedly connected to the first panel 12; 112; 212; 312. The second panel 14; 114; 214; 314 is foldable to take a folded position where the second panel 14; 114; 214; 314 is disposed at an angle with respect to the first panel 12; 112; 212; 312. The blank 10; 110; 210; 310 comprises an article-engaging feature RT for engaging an article B and formed from at least one of the first and second panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314. The blank 10; 110; 210; 310 comprises a locking feature L; L1, L2 for locking the second panel 14; 114; 214; 314 in the folded position. The locking feature L; L1, L2 comprises a locking tab 50; 150; 250; 350 formed from the first and second panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314 and a locking edge 56; 156; 256; 356 provided by one of the first and second panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314. The locking tab 50; 150; 250; 350 is hingedly connected to the other of the first and second panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314 such that the locking tab 50; 150; 250; 350 is pivotable to a locking position in which the locking tab 50; 150; 250; 350 is disposed at an angle with respect to each of the first and second panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314 and is in engagement with the locking edge 56; 156; 256; 356.

The locking feature L; L1, L2 may comprise a cushioning tab 52; 152; 252; 352. The cushioning tab 52; 152; 252; 352 may be detachably connected to the locking tab 50; 150; 250; 350 along a severance line 57; 357. The severance line 57; 357 may be broken before the tab 52; 152; 252; 352 is activated. Breaking the severance line 57; 357 may be automated in a packaging machine by providing a breaking tool prior to, upstream of, one or more folding guides for folding the second panel 14; 114; 214; 314 with respect to the first panel 12; 112; 212; 312.

The tab 52; 152; 252; 352 may be fully separated from the locking tab 50; 150; 250; 350 by a cut. The tab 52; 152; 252; 352 may be hingedly connected to the locking tab 50; 150; 250; 350 by a fold line 259. The tab 52; 152; 252; 352 may be folded upwards or downwards about its fold line 55; 155; 255; 355 to the first or second panel 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314 so as to yield to the locking tab 50; 150; 250; 350.

Alternatively, the tab 52; 152; 252; 352 may remain unfolded to provide a stopper edge on which the locking tab 50; 150; 250; 350 is brought into abutment to limit its pivotal movement.

The locking feature L; L1, L2 may comprise an engaging protrusion 54, 154; 254; 354 for engaging the first panel 12; 112; 212; 312.

The tab 52; 152; 252; 352 may encourage the locking tab 50; 150; 250; 350 into abutment with the locking edge 56; 156; 256; 356.

Embodiments provide a method of forming a package which method comprises applying a blank 10; 110; 210; 310 to a plurality of articles B arranged in a group to form an article carrier 90; 190; 290 thereabout. The article carrier 90; 190; 290 comprises a first panel 12; 112; 212; 312 and a second panel 14; 114; 214; 314 hingedly connected to the first panel 12; 112; 212; 312. The first panel 12; 112; 212; 312 comprises a plurality of article-engaging features RT, each of the plurality of article-engaging features RT receives a respective one of the plurality of articles B. The method comprises folding the second panel 14; 114; 214; 314 with respect to the first panel 12; 112; 212; 312, to be disposed at an angle with respect to the first panel 12; 112; 212; 312, about a side of the group of articles B. The group of articles B inhibit further folding of the second panel 14; 114; 214; 314. The method comprises engaging a locking feature L; L1, L2. The locking feature L; L1, L2 comprises a locking tab 50; 150; 250; 350 formed from the first and second panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314 and a locking edge 56; 156; 256; 356 provided by one of the first and second panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314. The locking tab 50; 150; 250; 350 is hingedly connected to the other of the first and second panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 312. Engaging the locking feature comprises folding the locking tab 50; 150; 250; 350 from a coplanar relationship with the other of the first and second panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314 to be disposed at an angle with respect to each of the first and second panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314 and inserting an engaging portion 50a of the locking tab 50; 150; 250; 350 into a receiving region R of an opening in said one of the first and second panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314 created by folding the second panel 14; 114; 214; 314 with respect to the first panel 12; 112; 212; 312 such that the locking tab 50; 150; 250; 350 is in engagement with the locking edge 56; 156; 256; 356, thereby locking the second panel 14; 114; 214; 314 in the folded position and inhibiting unfolding of the second panel 14; 114; 214; 314 away from the side of the group of articles B.

The step of inserting an engaging portion of the locking tab 50; 150; 250; 350 into the receiving region of the opening may comprise pressing the locking tab 50; 150; 250; 350 through a constriction provided by the opening.

The method may further comprise pre-folding the locking tab 50; 150; 250; 350 prior to folding the second panel 14; 114; 214; 314 with respect to the first panel 12; 112; 212; 312 by at least temporarily displacing the locking tab 50; 150; 250; 350 out of the plane of the other of the first and second panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314.

The step of pre-folding the locking tab 50; 150; 250; 350 may sever a frangible connection between the locking tab 50; 150; 250; 350 and a second tab 52; 152; 252; 352 struck from said one of the first and second panels 12, 14; 112, 114; 212, 214; 312, 314 and hingedly connected thereto.

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, a greater or lesser number of articles and/or arranged in different array configurations. Whilst the foregoing embodiments have been illustrated and described with article retention structures of the “sunburst” type in which a plurality of tabs are arranged about an opening other retention structures may be employed. In other embodiments, the article retention structures RT may take a different form, for example, but not limited to, an article receiving opening for receiving a portion of an article and providing a pair of opposed engaging edges for engaging opposing sides of an article below a flange, chime or other projection. It will be appreciated that in such embodiments the top panel or engaging panel may be disposed at an elevation below the upper end of the articles being packaged.

The article retention structures RT may take the form of a pair of spaced apart opposing cuts which define a displaceable region forming a cover over an article and providing a pair of opposed engaging edges for engaging opposing sides of an article below a flange, chime or other projection.

It will be recognized 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” refer 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. 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 wherein each of the two or more fold lines may be either straight/linear or curved/curvilinear in shape. When linear fold lines form a hinged connection, they may be disposed parallel with each other or be slightly angled with respect to each other. When curvilinear fold lines form a hinged connection, they may intersect each other to define a shaped panel within the area surrounded by the curvilinear fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may comprise a pair of arched or arcuate fold lines intersecting at two points such that they define an elliptical panel therebetween. A hinged connection may be formed from one or more linear fold lines and one or more curvilinear fold lines. A typical example of such a hinged connection may comprise a combination of a linear fold line and an arched or arcuate fold line which intersect at two points such that they define a half moon-shaped panel therebetween.

As used herein, the term “fold line” may refer to one of the following: a scored line, an embossed line, a debossed line, a line of perforations, a line of short slits, a line of half-cuts, a single half-cut, an interrupted cutline, a line of aligned slits, a line of scores and any combination of the aforesaid options.

It should be understood that hinged connections 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 cutline, an interrupted cutline, slits, scores, embossed lines, debossed lines, 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 severance line. The line of perforations can be designed to facilitate folding and resist breaking, to facilitate folding and facilitate breaking with more effort, or to facilitate breaking with little effort.

The phrase “in registry with” as used herein refers to the 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.

Claims

1. An article carrier for packaging a plurality of articles, the article carrier comprising:

a first panel and a second panel hingedly connected to the first panel and disposed at a folded position where the second panel is disposed at an angle with respect to the first panel;
an article-engaging feature for engaging an article and formed from at least one of the first and second panels; and
a locking feature for locking the second panel in the folded position, the locking feature comprising: a locking tab formed from the first and second panels; and a locking edge provided by one of the first and second panels, the locking tab being hingedly connected to the other of the first and second panels and disposed at an angle with respect to each of the first and second panels,
wherein the locking tab is in engagement with the locking edge such that the first and second panels are locked in the folded position.

2. An article carrier according to claim 1, wherein the locking tab is obliquely disposed with respect to the other of the first and second panels.

3. An article carrier according to claim 1, wherein the locking feature comprises a cushioning tab.

4. An article carrier according to claim 3, wherein the cushioning tab is hingedly connected to said one of the first and second panels by a first hinged connection.

5. An article carrier according to claim 3, wherein the cushioning tab is detachably connected to the locking tab along a severance line.

6. An article carrier according to claim 5, wherein the severance line is broken before the tab is activated.

7. An article carrier according to claim 3, wherein the cushioning tab is fully separated from the locking tab by a cut.

8. An article carrier according to claim 4, wherein the cushioning tab is hingedly connected to the locking tab by a second hinged connection.

9. An article carrier according to claim 4, wherein the cushioning tab is folded either upwards or downwards about the first hinged connection to the first or second panel so as to yield the locking tab.

10. (canceled)

11. An article carrier according to claim 3, wherein the cushioning tab remains unfolded to provide a stopper edge on which the locking tab is brought into abutment to limit its pivotal movement.

12. (canceled)

13. An article carrier according to claim 1, wherein the locking feature comprises an engaging protrusion for engaging said one of the first and second panels.

14. An article carrier according to claim 1, wherein the locking feature comprises an opening defined at least in part by the locking tab, the opening comprises a receiving region, the receiving region being defined by a portion of the locking tab.

15. An article carrier according to claim 14, wherein the portion of the locking tab defining the receiving region is provided by a first end of the locking tab, the first end opposing a second end, the second end being defined by a hinged connection to the other of the first and second panels.

16. An article carrier according to claim 1, wherein the locking tab comprises an engaging region, the engaging region being provided by a portion of the locking tab which would otherwise form said one of the first and second panels and by a portion of the locking tab which would otherwise form the other of the first and second panels.

17. An article carrier according to claim 1, wherein the locking tab is hingedly connected to the other of the first and second panels by a third hinged connection, the third hinged connection being disposed a first distance from a fourth hinged connection between the first and second panels, and wherein the locking tab comprises a detent providing an edge for engaging said one of the first and second panels, the detent being disposed a second distance from the third hinged connection, the second distance being equal to or greater than the first distance.

18. An article carrier according to claim 14, wherein the opening comprises a constriction having a first width dimension, and the locking tab comprises an engaging region, the engaging region having a second width dimension, the second width dimension being greater than the first width dimension.

19. (canceled)

20. A blank for forming an article carrier, the blank comprising:

a first panel and a second panel hingedly connected to the first panel, the second panel being foldable to take a folded position where the second panel is disposed at an angle with respect to the first panel;
an article-engaging feature for engaging an article and formed from at least one of the first and second panels; and
a locking feature for locking the second panel in the folded position, the locking feature comprising: a locking tab formed from the first and second panels; and a locking edge provided by one of the first and second panels, the locking tab being hingedly connected to the other of the first and second panels such that the locking tab is pivotable to a locking position in which the locking tab is disposed at an angle with respect to each of the first and second panels and is in engagement with the locking edge.

21. A method of forming a package comprising:

applying an article carrier to a plurality of articles arranged in a group, the article carrier comprising a first panel and a second panel hingedly connected to the first panel, the first panel comprising a plurality of article-engaging features, each of the plurality of article-engaging features receiving a respective one of the plurality of articles,
folding the second panel with respect to the first panel, to be disposed at an angle with respect to the first panel, about a side of the group of articles, the group of articles inhibiting further folding of the second panel; and
engaging a locking feature, the locking feature comprising a locking tab formed from the first and second panels and a locking edge provided by one of the first and second panels, the locking tab being hingedly connected to the other of the first and second panels, the step of engaging the locking feature comprises folding the locking tab to be disposed at an angle with respect to each of the first and second panels.

22. (canceled)

23. (canceled)

24. A method according to claim 21, further comprising pre-folding the locking tab prior to folding the second panel with respect to the first panel by at least temporarily displacing the locking tab out of the plane of the other of the first and second panels.

25. (canceled)

26. (canceled)

27. A blank according to claim 20, wherein the locking feature comprises a cushioning tab that is hingedly connected to said one of the first and second panels by a first hinged connection,

wherein the cushioning tab is: (i) detachably connected to the locking tab along a severance line, or (ii) fully separated from the locking tab by a cut, or (iii) hingedly connected to the locking tab by a second hinged connection.
Patent History
Publication number: 20240059467
Type: Application
Filed: Dec 14, 2021
Publication Date: Feb 22, 2024
Applicant: WestRock Packaging Systems, LLC (Atlanta, GA)
Inventors: Julien D. Merzeau (Chateauroux), Matthew E. Zacherle (Chesterfield, VA)
Application Number: 18/267,001
Classifications
International Classification: B65D 71/42 (20060101);