TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates to cartons and to blanks for forming the same. More specifically, but not exclusively, the invention relates to a carrier of the wrap-around type having an article retention structure for retention of an article therein.

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 large weights of articles. It is desirable that the contents of the carton are secure within the carton.

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 a carrier for packaging a plurality of flanged articles. The carrier comprises a top panel and a pair of side panels coupled to the top panel to define an interior space for receiving at least part of each article. The carrier may comprise a first stabilizer struck from the top panel such that the first stabilizer defines at least in part a handle aperture in the top panel. The first stabilizer is hingedly connected to the top panel so as to be foldable inwardly into the interior space to provide a finger cushion. The first stabilizer comprises a pair of hooking panels hingedly connected together along a center fold line. The hooking panels comprise engaging edges respectively for engaging an underside of a flanges of each of a pair of adjacent flanged articles.

Optionally, the top panel comprises a second stabilizer struck from the top panel such that the second stabilizer partially defines the handle aperture in the top panel, the second stabilizer is hingedly connected to the top panel, in opposition to the first stabilizer, so as to be foldable inwardly into the interior space to provide a second finger cushion, the second stabilizer comprises a second pair of hooking panels hingedly connected together along a center fold line, each of the second pair of hooking panels comprises an engaging edge for engaging an underside of a flange of a respective one of a second pair of adjacently disposed flanged articles.

Optionally, the first or second stabilizer comprises a triangular panel coupling the pair of hooking panels to the top panel.

Optionally, each of the hooking panels comprises a wing portion defining at least in part one of said engaging edges. Optionally, each of the hooking panels comprises a recess along a side edge thereof and the recess defines at least in part the wing portion.

Optionally, each of the hooking panels comprises a recess along a side edge thereof and the recess defines at least in part one of said engaging edges.

Optionally, the recess is formed from an aperture struck from the top panel.

Optionally, the top panel comprises a second finger cushion struck from the top panel such that the second finger cushion partially defines the handle aperture in the top panel, the second finger cushion is hingedly connected to the top panel, in opposition to the first stabilizer, so as to be foldable inwardly into the interior space.

Optionally, the top panel comprises a third stabilizer struck from the top panel such that the third stabilizer partially defines at least in part a second handle aperture in the top panel, the third stabilizer is hingedly connected to the top panel, so as to be foldable inwardly into the interior space to provide a third finger cushion, the second stabilizer comprises a third pair of hooking panels hingedly connected together along a center fold line, each of the third pair of hooking panels comprises an engaging edge for engaging an underside of a flange of a respective one of a third pair of adjacently disposed flanged articles.

Optionally, the top panel comprises a fourth finger cushion struck from the top panel such that the fourth finger cushion partially defines the second handle aperture in the top panel, the fourth finger cushion being hingedly connected to the top panel, in opposition to the third stabilizer, so as to be foldable inwardly into the interior space.

A second aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for at least one flanged article. The carrier comprises a top panel and a pair of side panels coupled to the top panel to define an interior space for receiving at least part of the at least one flanged article . The carrier may comprise a first article-retainer having a first aperture struck at least from one of the side panels. The first aperture is defined at least by a lower edge which comprises a pair of engaging edges for engaging a flange of a first flanged article and a recess extending between the engaging edges for receiving part of the first flanged article.

Optionally, the carrier comprises a bevel panel interconnecting the top panel and said one of the side panels and wherein the first aperture is struck from the bevel panel. Optionally, the first article-retainer comprises a protrusion defined in part by the first aperture and wherein the protrusion interrupts a hinged connection between the top panel and said one of the side panels so as to be integral with the top panel, the protrusion is arranged to cover a portion of the first flanged article received in the first aperture. Optionally, the carrier further comprises a second article-retainer having a second aperture struck at least from the other one of the side panels, the second aperture opposes the first aperture, the second aperture is defined at least by a lower edge which comprises a pair of engaging edges for engaging the flange of a second flanged article and a recess extending between the engaging edges for receiving part of the second flanged article.

Optionally, the carrier further comprises a stabilizer struck from the top panel such that the stabilizer defines a handle aperture in the top panel, the stabilizer is hingedly connected to the top panel so as to be foldable inwardly into the interior space to provide a finger cushion, the stabilizer comprises a pair of hooking panels hingedly connected together along a center fold line, the hooking panels comprise engaging edges respectively for engaging the undersides of the flanges of each of the first and second flanged articles.

Optionally, the stabilizer encourages each of the first and second flanged articles into engagement with the respective one of the first and second article retainers.

Optionally, the stabilizer maintains each of the first and second flanged articles in engagement with the respective one of the first and second article retainers.

A third aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming a carrier. The blank comprises a plurality of panels for forming walls of the carrier. The plurality of panels defines an interior space in a set-up carrier for receiving at least part of each article. The plurality of panels includes a top panel, a first side panel and a second side panel. The first and second side panels are coupled to the top panel. The blank comprises a first stabilizer struck from the top panel such that the first stabilizer defines at least in part a handle aperture in the top panel. The first stabilizer is hingedly connected to the top panel so as to be foldable inwardly into the interior space to provide a finger cushion . The first stabilizer comprises a pair of hooking panels hingedly connected together along a center fold line. The hooking panels comprise engaging edges respectively for engaging the undersides of the flanges of a pair of adjacent flanged articles.

A fourth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming a carrier. The blank comprises a plurality of panels for forming walls of the carrier. The plurality of panels defines an interior space in a set-up carrier for receiving at least part of each article. The plurality of panels includes a top panel , a first side panel and a second side panel . The first and second side panels are coupled to the top panel . The blank comprises a first article-retainer having a first aperture struck at least from one of the first and second side panels. The first aperture is defined at least by a lower edge which comprises a pair of engaging edges for engaging a flange of a first flanged article and a recess extending between the engaging edges for receiving part of the first flanged article.

Within the scope of this application it is envisaged 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

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

Figure 1 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carton according to a first embodiment;

Figure 2 is a perspective view from above of a carton formed from the blank of Figure 1 ;

Figure 3 is a further perspective view of a portion of the carton of Figure 2 illustrating a retention structure;

Figure 4 is a perspective view of an end of the carton of Figure 2;

Figure 5A is a side view of the carton of Figure 2;

Figure 5B illustrates a portion of a side of the carton shown in Figure 5A;

Figures 6A and 6B are perspective views illustrating stages of assembly of the carton formed from the blank of Figure 1 ; Figure 7 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carton according to a second embodiment;

Figure 8 is a perspective view from above of a carton formed from the blank of Figure 7; Figures 9A, 9B, 10A, 10B and 1 1 are perspective views of a portion of the carton of Figure 8 illustrating a retention structure;

Figure 12 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a carton according to a third embodiment;

Figure 13 is a perspective view from above of a carton formed from the blank of Figure 12; and

Figures 14A and 14B are internal perspective views of a portion of the carton of Figure

13 illustrating a retention structure.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODI MENTS

Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of the package, blanks and cartons 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 cartons 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 Figure 1 , there is shown a plan view of a blank 10 capable of forming a carton or carrier 90, as shown in Figure 2, for containing and carrying a group of primary products such as, but not limited to, flanged containers, cups or yoghurt pots, hereinafter referred to as articles B, as shown in Figure 2. The blank 1 0 forms a secondary package for packaging at least one primary product container or package. Figures 7 and 12 show a plan views of alternative blanks 1 10, 210 capable of forming a cartons or carriers 190, 290 respectively shown in Figures 8 and 13. The cartons or carriers 190, 290 are capable of containing and carrying a group of primary products or articles B such as, but not limited to, flanged containers, cups or yoghurt pots. 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 90, 190, 290 for engaging and carrying articles B, such as primary product containers B. It is contemplated that the teachings of the invention can be applied to various product containers B, which may or may not be tapered and/or cylindrical . Other exemplary containers include bottles (for example metallic, glass or plastics bottles), cans (for example aluminium cans), tins, pouches, packets and the like.

The blanks 10, 1 10, 210 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 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- re si stance, good glue-ability, heat sealability, or other desired functional properties.

In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 10 is configured to form a carton or carrier 90 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles B. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 6 the arrangement is an m x n matrix or array, having two rows (m=2) and two columns (n=2) ; in the illustrated embodiment two rows of four articles B are provided , and the articles B are individual 100g cups with a cover. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 7 to 1 1 the arrangement is a 3 x 2 matrix or array; in the illustrated embodiment three rows of two articles B are provided, and the articles B are individual 135g cups with a cover. In the embodiment illustrated in Figures 12 to 14B the arrangement is a 3 x 2 matrix or array; in the illustrated embodiment three rows of two articles B are provided, and the articles B are individual 170g cups with a film lid formed from a metallic or plastic material such as, but not limited to, Aluminium or PET (polyester - polyethylene terephthalate). Alternatively, the blanks 10, 1 10, 210 can be configured to form a carrier for packaging other types, number and size of articles B and/or for packaging articles B in a different arrangement or configuration.

Turning to Figure 1 , there is illustrated a blank 10 for forming a carton 90 according to a first embodiment. The blank 10 comprises a plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 for forming a tubular structure. The plurality of main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 comprises a first base panel 12, a first side panel 14, a first bevel or corner panel 16, a top panel 18, a second first bevel or corner 20, a second side panel 22, and a second base panel 24. The plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 may be arranged in a linear series hinged one to the next by corresponding fold lines 13, 15, 17, 19, 21 , 23.

The blank 10 is foldable to form a package 90 as illustrated in Figure 2. The first and second base panels 12, 24 are engageable with one another in an overlapping relationship to form a composite base wall 12/24 of the carton 90. The blank 10 may comprise a complementary locking mechanism for securing the second base panel 24 to the first base panel 12. The first base panel 12 may comprise at least one first part F of the complementary locking mechanism. The second base panel 24 may comprise at least one second part M of the complementary locking mechanism. In the illustrated embodiment, the first base panel 12 comprises a plurality of female tabs F defining openings in the first base panel 12. The second base panel 24 comprises a plurality of male tabs M, the openings in the first base panel 12 being configured to receive a respective one of the male tabs M. The female tabs F are arranged to be displaced out of the first base panel 12 to form the opening and to bear against the male tabs M when received therein.

Optionally, the first and second base panels 12, 24 may comprise at least one first aperture A1 . In the illustrated embodiment, each of the first and second base panels 12, 20 comprises two first apertures A1. The first apertures A1 may be employed to facilitate construction of the carton 90. A packaging machine component may engage with the first apertures A1 to enable the plurality of panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24 to be tightened about a group of articles B. The first apertures A1 may also be employed to facilitate alignment of the first and second base panels 12, 24 with respect to each other or to align the first part of the complementary locking mechanism with the second part of the complementary locking mechanism. The complementary locking mechanism illustrated and described is entirely optional. The first base panel 12 may comprise a pair of cutaways or recesses R struck from a free end edge thereof, the free end edge opposes the hinged connection defined by the fold line 13 between the first base panel 12 and the first side panel 14. The recesses R are arranged to be in registry with the first apertures A1 provided in the second base panel 24 when the first and a second base panels 12, 24 are aligned in an at least partially overlapping relationship with each other. The blank 10 may comprise at least one heel engagement structure 40 for engaging with a heel or lower portion of an article B. The blank 1 0 illustrated in Figure 1 comprises four heel engagement structures 40 each is provided for engaging a respective article B. Each of the heel engagement structures 40 is substantially similar in construction and will be described by reference to a heel engagement structure provided in the second side panel 22.

The heel engagement structure 40 may comprise a first cut line or severable line 41 . The first cut line 41 interrupts the fold line 23 hingedly connecting the second side panel 22 to the second base panel 24. The first cut line 41 may be curved or arcuate in shape. A second outline or severance line 43 extends from the first cut line 41 ; the second outline or severance line 43 may extend from the middle or center of the first cut line 41 . The second outline or severance line 43 may be arranged to be substantially perpendicular to the fold line 23. The heel engagement structure 40 may comprise a pair of divergently arranged cut lines 45a, 45b. The cut lines 45a, 45b are arranged to diverge toward the first cut line 41 . I n this way the cut lines 41 , 43, 45a, 45b define a pair of tabs, displaceable or foldable with respect to the second side panel 22. It will be appreciated that cut lines 45a, 45b may be replaced with fold or score lines to provide a hinged connection between each tab and the second side panel 22. Each of the pair of tabs may be substantially triangular in shape.

The blank 10 comprises at least one top engaging structure or article retainer T for engaging with a top or upper portion of an article B. The blank 10 illustrated in Figure 1 comprises four top engaging structures T each is provided for engaging a respective article B. Each of the top engaging structures T is substantially similar in construction and will be described with reference to a top engaging structure T provided in the first bevel panel 16. Each of the top engaging structures T comprises an opening defined by a second aperture A2. The second aperture A2 is struck from at least the first bevel panel 16. In the illustrated embodiment, the second aperture A2 is struck in part from the first bevel panel 16, in part from the first side panel 14 and in part from the top panel 1 8. The second aperture A2 interrupts the fold line 17 between the top panel 1 8 and the first bevel panel 16. The second aperture A2 interrupts the fold line 15 between the first side panel 14 and the first bevel panel 16. The second aperture A2 comprises a recessed portion defining a central edge C1 , the central edge C1 may be curved or arcuate in shape. The second aperture A2 comprises a pair of engaging edges E1 , E2 (see Figures 6A and 6B) disposed on opposing side of the central edge C1 . Each of the pair of engaging edges E1 , E2 may be linear in shape.

The top engaging structures T comprise a protrusion P extending from the side edges of the top panel 18 and integrally formed therewith . The protrusions P are formed from material which would otherwise form one of the first and second bevel panels 16, 20. In this way the protrusions P may be considered to be struck from one of the first and second bevel panels

16, 20. The protrusions form a protective top cover over a portion of the articles B which are received in the second apertures A2, see Figure 2.

The blank 1 0 comprises at least one retention structure 50a, 50b struck from or defined within the top panel 18. In the embodiment illustrated in Figure 1 there is provided a pair of retention structures 50a, 50b, the retention structures 50a, 50b are centrally disposed with the top panel 18.

The retention structures 50a, 50b are spaced apart from the free end edge of the top panel 1 8 and from the side edges of the top panel 18 defined by the fold lines 17, 19.

The retention structures 50a, 50b may be spaced from the side and end edges of the top panel 18 by a distance at least equal to or greater than one half the maximum diameter of the articles B being packaged.

The retention structures 50a, 50b may be spaced from the side edges (defined by fold lines

17, 19) of the top panel 18 by a distance at least equal to or greater than one quarter (1 /2n - where n is the number of columns of articles B) the distance between the fold line 1 7 and the fold line 19 - the width of the top panel 18.

The retention structures 50a, 50b may be spaced from each of the opposing free end edges of the top panel 18 by a distance at least equal to or greater than one quarter (1 /2m - where m is the number of rows of articles B) the distance between the opposing free end edges of the top panel 1 8 - the length of the top panel 18.

The blank 10 comprises a first retention structure 50a and a second retention structure 50b. The first retention structure 50a comprises a first tab 52a/54a hingedly connected to the top panel 1 8 by a fold line 51 a. The first tab 52a/54a comprises a center or longitudinal fold line 53a defining a first part 52a and a second part 54a. The second retention structure 50b comprises a second tab 52b/54b hingedly connected to the top panel 18 by a fold line 51 b. The second tab 52b/54b comprises a center or longitudinal fold line 53b defining a first part 52b and a second part 54b. The blank 10 comprises two pairs of apertures A3, A4, a first pair of apertures A3, A4 defines in part the first tab 52a/54a of the first retention structure 50a. Each of the first pair of apertures A3, A4 defines a recessed portion in the first tab 52a/54a. Each of the first pair of apertures A3, A4 defines at least in part lateral a protrusion or wing portion 56a, 58a which provides a shoulder for engaging with an article B disposed in the carton 90.

A second pair of apertures A3, A4 defines in part the second tab 52b/54b of the second retention structure 50b. Each of the second pair of apertures A3, A4 defines a recessed portion in the second tab 52b/54b. Each of the second pair of apertures A3, A4 defines at least in part a lateral protrusion or shoulder 56b, 58b for engaging with an article B disposed in the carton 90.

The first tab 52a/54a and the second tab 52b/54b may each comprise a pair of fold lines 55a, 57a, as shown in Figure 3, the pair of fold lines 55a, 57a are divergently arranged with respect to each other. The pair of fold lines 55a, 57a may facilitate folding of the first tab 52a/54a with respect to the top panel 18, similar fold lines facilitate folding of the second tab 52b/54b with respect to the top panel 18.

The pair of fold lines 55a, 57a defines a substantially triangular region of the first tab 52a/54a proximate the top panel 18 and may facilitate folding of the first tab 52a/54a about the fold line 53a such the first part 52a and the second part 54a define a valley or trough.

Turning to the construction of the carton 90 as illustrated in Figure 2, the carton 90 can be formed by a series of sequential folding operations in a straight-line machine so that the carton 90 is not 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.

A group of articles B is assembled; in the embodiment illustrated in Figure 2 four articles B are arranged in a 2 x 2 array. The top panel 18 of the blank 10 is disposed above the group of articles B to provide a top wall 18 of the carton 90. The first and second bevel panels 16, 20 are folded , with respect to the top panel 18 about fold lines 17, 19 respectively, about opposing sides of the group of articles B so as to be disposed about upper portions of said articles B. A flange or skirt L of each article B is received in a respective one of the second apertures A2 of the top engaging structures T.

The first and second side walls 14, 22 are folded about the opposing sides of the group of articles B. Free edges of the first and second side wall 14, 22, defined by the second apertures A2, are disposed below the flanges L of the articles B. Figures 6A and 6B illustrate, from below assembly of the carton 90. Figure 6A shows the second side wall 22 before folding about fold line 21 . Figure 6B shows the second side wall 22 after folding about fold line 21 .

The recessed portion of the second aperture A2 enables or facilitates folding of the second side wall 22 and may provide sufficient clearance for the second side wall 22 to pass the flange L of the article B.

The recessed portion of the second aperture A2 may also allow the second side wall 22 to be folded further about the fold line 21 . In embodiments in which the article B are tapered in shape, that is to say their width or diameter reduces towards the base, the recessed portion of the second aperture A2 may allow a lower region of the second side wall 22 to be brought closer to the heel of the article B for increased security of the article B within the carton 90. The recessed portion receives a portion of an article B. The recessed portion of the second aperture A2 may also allow a greater proportion of the flange L to pass through the second aperture A2.

The engaging edges E1 , E2 engage with the flange L of the article B received in the second aperture and may support or secure the article B as shown in Figure 5B.

The first base panel 12 is folded about the fold line 1 3 so as to be disposed adjacent the base of the group of articles B. The second base panel 24 is then folded about the fold line 23 so as to be in at least partial overlapping relationship with the first base panel 12. The first and second base panels 12, 24 are secured together. Each of the male tabs M is displaced inwardly out of the plane of the second base panel 24. In so doing , each of the female tabs F is displaced inwardly creating a corresponding opening in the first base panel 12. The male tabs M are received in respective ones of the openings so as to lock the first and second base panels 12, 24 together. I n this way, a tubular structure is formed about the group of articles B.

The assembled carton 90 is shown in Figures 2 to 5A.

Figure 2 illustrates the carton 90, from above, prior to deployment of the retention structures 50a, 50b. A portion of the top panel 18 of the carton 90 is shown in Figure 3, the retention structures 50a, 50b are in a deployed condition. The first and second tabs 52a/54a, 52b/54b are folded inwardly of the top panel 1 8. The first and second tabs 52a/54a, 52b/54b are folded with respect to each other about fold lines 53a, 53b.

A first wing portion 56a of the first tab 52a/54a engages with the flange L of a first article B. A second wing portion 58a of the first tab 52a/54a engages with the flange L of a second article B adjacent to the first article B.

A first wing portion 56b of the second tab 52b/54b engages with the flange L of a third article B. The third article B opposes the first article B. A second wing portion 58b of the second tab 52b/54b engages with the flange L of a fourth article B adjacent to the third article B and opposing the second article B.

Each retention structure 50a, 50b secures or locks a pair of articles B within the carton 90. The retention structures 50a, 50b engage with internal side or edges of the articles B, best shown in Figure 4. The angled shape of the first and second tabs 52a/54a, 52b/54b may serve to push or encourage the articles B with which it is in engagement outwardly, as indicated by direction arrow D1 , D2 in Figure 4, in doing so the articles B are securely held in the top engaging structures T. In this way the retention structures 50a, 50b may provide a stabilizer or brace for the articles B.

The wing portions 56a, 58a, 56b, 58b of the retention structures 50a, 50b engage or catch with the undersides, in normal use, of the flanges of the articles. In doing so the wing portions 56a, 58a, 56b, 58b hold the retention structures 50a, 50b in position between a pair of articles B.

The angled shape of the first and second tabs 52a/54a, 52b/54b may inhibit or prevent the articles B from unintentionally disengaging from its respective top engaging structure T. The opening in the top panel 18 created by folding the retention structures 50a, 50b internally of the carton 90 may serve as a handle aperture, each of the first and second tab 52a/54a, 52b/54b may be employed as a finger cushion .

Referring now to Figures 7 to 14B, there is shown additional embodiments of the present disclosure. I n the second and third illustrated embodiments like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix "100", "200" to indicate that these features belong to the second and third embodiments respectively. The additional embodiments share many common features with the first embodiment and therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 6B will be described in detail.

Turning to Figure 7, there is illustrated a blank 1 10 for forming a carton 190 according to a second embodiment (see Figure 8).

The blank 1 10 comprises a plurality of main panels 1 12, 1 14, 1 16, 1 18, 120, 122, 124 for forming a tubular structure. The plurality of main panels 1 12, 1 14, 1 16, 1 1 8, 120, 122, 124 comprises a first base panel 1 12, a first side panel 1 14, a first bevel or corner panel 1 16, a top panel 1 18, a second first bevel or corner 120, a second side panel 122 and a second base panel 124. The plurality of panels 1 12, 1 14, 1 16, 1 18, 120, 122, 124 may be arranged in a linear series hinged one to the next by corresponding fold lines 1 13, 1 15, 1 1 7, 1 1 9, 121 , 123.

The blank 1 10 is adapted to accommodate six articles B arranged in a 3x2 matrix or array. The blank 1 10 comprises six top engaging structures T.

The blank 1 10 comprises three retention structures 1 50a, 150b, 150c struck from the top panel 1 18. A first retention structure 1 50a comprises a first tab 152a/154a hingedly connected to the top panel 1 18 by a fold line 151 a. The first tab 152a/154a comprises a center or longitudinal fold line 153a defining a first part 152a and a second part 154a.

The blank 1 10 comprises three pairs of apertures A3, A4, a first pair of apertures A3, A4 defines in part the first tab 152a/1 54a of the first retention structure 150a. Each of the first pair of apertures A3, A4 defines a recessed portion in the first tab 152a/154a. Each of the first pair of apertures A3, A4 defines at least in part a lateral protrusion or wing portion 1 56a, 158a which provides a shoulder for engaging with one or more articles B disposed in the carton 190.

A second retention structure 150b comprises a second tab 152b/154b similarly arranged to the first tab 152a/154a. The second tab 152b/154b is disposed in opposition to the first tab 152a/154a in a similar arrangement to the first embodiment. The first and second retention structures 150a, 150b are disposed in vertical alignment with a void between a first group of four adjacent articles B. The four adjacent articles B may be formed from a pair of articles B in a central column and a pair of articles B in an endmost column proximate a first end of the carton 190.

A third retention structure 150c comprises a third tab 152c/154c similarly arranged to the first tab 152a/154a. The third retention structure 150c is disposed in vertical alignment with a void between a second group of four adjacent articles B. The four adjacent articles B of the second group may be formed from a pair of articles B in a central column and a pair of articles B in an endmost column proximate a second end of the carton 190. The pair of articles B in the central column are shared by the first and second groups such that they belong to either first or second group of articles.

Optionally, the blank 1 10 comprises a handle flap or finger cushion 160. The handle flap 160 comprises a handle tab 162/164 comprising a first part 162 hingedly connected to a second part 164 by a fold line 163. The handle flap 160 comprises pair of fold lines 165, 167. The pair of fold lines 165, 167b are divergently arranged with respect to each other. The pair of fold lines 165, 167 may facilitate folding of the handle tab 162/164 with respect to the top panel 1 18.

The pair of fold lines 165, 167 defines a substantially triangular region of the handle tab 162/164 proximate the top panel 1 18 and may facilitate folding of the handle tab 162/164 about the fold line 163 such the first part 162 and the second part 164 define a valley or trough.

The handle flap 160 is arranged in opposition to the third retention structure 150c. The handle flap 160 may be employed together with the second retention structure 150b to form a carrying handle. A user may engage the handle flap 160 with a thumb or finger and the second retention structure 150b with the other of the thumb or finger to grasp the carton 190 and transport the carton 190 as shown in Figure 8. It will be appreciated that the user may carry the carton 190 in other ways by engaging with one or more of the first, second or third retention structures 150a, 150b, 1 50c and/or handle flap 160. Figure 9A illustrates the third retention structure 1 50c and the handle flap 160. The third retention structure 150c is partially folded inwardly, as indicated by direction arrow D4, into the interior of the carton 190 and may be folded into a void between a plurality of articles disposed with the carton 190. Figure 9B illustrates the third retention structure 150c in engagement with each of a pair of adjacent articles B within the carton 1 90. The third tab 152c/154c has been folded inwardly, as indicated by direction arrow D5, to engage said articles B. A first wing portion 156c is shown located below the flange L of one of the pair of articles B. The flange L is received in a recess in the side edge of the first part 152c of the third tab 152c/154c. A second wing portion 158c, not visible in Figure 9B, is similarly located. Figures 1 0A, 10B and 1 1 show further views of the retention structures 150a, 1 50b, 150c in engagement with articles B in the carton 190.

Turning to Figure 12, there is illustrated a blank 210, for forming a carton 290 according to a third embodiment (see Figure 13) . The blank 210 comprises a plurality of main panels 212, 214, 218, 222, 224 for forming a tubular structure.

The plurality of main panels 212, 214, 218, 222, 224 comprises a first base panel 212, a first side panel 214, a top panel 218, a second side panel 222 and a second base panel 224. The plurality of panels 212, 214, 218, 222, 224 may be arranged in a linear series hinged one to the next by corresponding fold lines 213, 217, 21 9, 223.

The blank 210 is adapted to accommodate six articles B arranged in a 3x2 matrix or array. The blank 210 comprises six top engaging structures T. Each of the top engaging structures T is substantially similar in construction and will be described with reference to a top engaging structure T provided in the second side panel 222.

Each of the top engaging structures T comprises an opening defined by a cut line or severable line 230. The cut line 230 is struck from at least the second side panel 222. Optionally, the cut line 230 is curved or arcuate in shape. The cut line 230 interrupts the fold line 219 between the top panel 21 8 and the second side panel 222. A pair of further cut lines 232, 234 may extend radially outward from the cut line 230. When the second side panel 222 is folded with respect to the top panel 21 8, about fold line 219, the cut line 230 opens up to form an opening which can receive a portion of an article B.

The cut lines 230 each define a protrusion extending from the side edges of the top panel 21 8 and integrally formed therewith . The protrusions are struck from material which would otherwise form the second side panel 222. In this way protrusions may be considered to be struck from one of the first and second side panels 214, 222. The protrusions each form a protective top cover for a portion of an article B which is received in the opening formed by folding the side panels 214, 222, see Figure 13.

In the third illustrated embodiment, the bevel panels have been omitted , it will be appreciated that the blank of Figure 12 could employ bevel panels similar to the previous illustrated embodiments. It will also be appreciated that the bevel panel 16, 20; 1 16, 120 of the embodiments of Figures 1 and 7 could be omitted , such embodiments may employ the top engaging structures T of the embodiment of Figure 12.

The first and second side panels 214, 222 comprise optional apertures A3, which may improve air flow or ventilation of the carton 290 for example when in cold storage. The blank 210 comprises four retention structures arranged in pairs and denoted generally by references signs 270a, 270b. The retention structures 270a, 270b are struck from the top panel 218.

A first pair of retention structures 270a comprises a first tab 272/274 and a second tab 282/284.

The first tab 272/274 is hingedly connected to the top panel 21 8 by a fold line 273 and the second tab 282/284 is hingedly connected to the top panel 218 by a fold line 283.

The first tab 272/274 comprises a first part 272 hingedly connected to a second part 274 by a center or longitudinal fold line 279.

The second tab 282/284 comprises a first part 282 hingedly connected to a second part 284 by a center or longitudinal fold line 289. The first tab 272/274 is separated from the second tab 282/284 by a cut line or severable line 276. The first tab 272/274 comprises a first wing portion defined by a cutline 271 which defines a shoulder for engaging an article B. The cutline 271 is offset from the fold line 273. The cut line 271 is disposed on a first side of the fold line 273. The first tab 272/274 comprises a second wing portion defined by a cutline 277 which defines a shoulder for engaging an article B. The cutline 277 is offset from the fold line 273. The cut line 277 is disposed on a second side of the fold line 273 which second side opposes the first side.

The offset arrangement of the cut lines 271 , 277 with respect to the fold line 273 provides a recess between each wing portion and the top panel 218 when the first tab 272/274 is folded about fold line 273. Each recess can receive a flange L of an article B so as to secure the article B within the carton 290 as shown in Figures 14B and 14B. The side edges of the first tab 272/274 are shaped complementary to the articles B.

The second tab 282/284 comprises a first wing portion defined by a cutline 281 which defines a shoulder for engaging an article B. The cutline 285 is offset from the fold line 283. The cut line 281 is disposed on a first side of the fold line 283. The second tab 282/284 comprises a second wing portion defined by a cutline 287 which defines a shoulder for engaging an article B. The cutline 287 is offset from the fold line 283. The cut line 287 is disposed on a second side of the fold line 283 which second side opposes the first side.

The offset arrangement of the cut lines 281 , 287 with respect to the fold line 283 provides a recess between each wing portion and the top panel 218 when the second tab 282/284 is folded about fold line 283. Each recess can receive a flange L of an article B so as to secure the article B within the carton 290.

The first pair of retention structures 270a are disposed in vertical alignment with a void between a first group of four adjacent articles B. The four adjacent articles B may be formed from a pair of articles in a central column and a pair of articles in an endmost column proximate a first end of the carton 290.

The second pair of retention structures 270b are disposed in vertical alignment with a void between a second group of four adjacent articles B. The four adjacent articles B of the second group may be formed from a pair of articles in a central column and a pair of articles in an endmost column proximate a second end of the carton 290. The pair of articles B in the central column are shared by the first and second groups such that they belong to either first or second group of articles. The present disclosure provides a carton 90; 190; 290 for packaging articles B; the carton comprises a top engaging device 50a, 50b, T; 1 50a, 1 50b, 150c, T; 270a, 270b for flanged articles, such as flanged cups; the cups may be disconnected or may connected to each other via their respective flanges. The carton 90; 190; 290 comprises a plurality of panels forming walls of a tubular structure including a top wall 18; 1 18; 218, a first side wall 14, 16; 1 14, 1 16; 214, a base wall 12/24; 1 12/124; 214/224, and a second side wall 22, 20; 122, 120; 222, optionally hingedly connected to each other in a linear series. The top engaging device may take the form of a stabilizer 52a/54a, 52b/54b; 152a/154a, 152b/154b, 1 52c/154c; 272/274, 282/284 hingedly connected to the top panel 18; 1 18; 21 8 and folded into an interior of the carton 90; 190; 290. The stabilizer 52a/54a, 52b/54b; 152a/154a, 152b/154b, 152c/154c; 272/274, 282/284 when folded defines an opening which may form a handle aperture for carrying the carton 90; 1 90; 290. The stabilizer 52a/54a, 52b/54b; 152a/154a, 152b/154b, 152c/154c; 272/274, 282/284 may provide a finger cushion. The stabilizer 52a/54a, 52b/54b; 152a/1 54a, 152b/1 54b, 152c/154c; 272/274, 282/284 may be formed from a first part 52a, 52b; 152a, 152b, 152c; 272, 282 and a second part 54a, 54b; 154a, 154b, 154c; 274, 284 hingedly connected to each other, the first and second parts 52a, 54a, 52b, 54b; 152a, 154a, 152b, 1 54b, 152c, 154c; 272,274, 282,284 form hooking panels each having engaging edges for engaging undersides of flanges L of a pair of adjacent flanged articles B. The stabilizer 52a/54a, 52b/54b; 152a/154a, 152b/154b, 1 52c/154c; 272/274, 282/284 may be substantially "T" shaped.

The top engaging device may take the form of an article retainer T comprising an article retaining aperture A2 struck at least from one of the side walls 14, 16, 22, 20; 1 14, 1 16, 122, 120; 214, 222. The article retaining aperture A2 is defined at least by a lower edge which comprises a pair of engaging edges E1 , E2 for engaging the flange L of a flanged article B and a recess C1 extending between the engaging edges for receiving part of the flanged article B.

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.

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 outline, 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 outline, an interrupted outline, 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 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.