TECHNICAL FIELD

The present invention relates packages, article carriers and to blanks for forming the same. More specifically, but not exclusively, the invention relates to package comprising a carrier having one or more apertures for receiving an article such that the carrier is located between opposed ends of the article.

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.

It is an object of the present disclosure to provide an article carrier for substantially cylindrical articles having a minimalistic appearance and to retain or hold a group of those articles in a matrix or array arrangement.

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 package comprising a plurality of articles arranged in a group and a top-engaging device or carrier in engagement with tops or upper portions of the articles such that the tops of the articles are connected and held together by the top-engaging device. The package comprises a bundling device or carrier spaced apart from the top-engaging device and in engagement with portions of the articles below the tops or upper portions thereof such that the portions of the articles are held together by the bundling device. The bundling device comprises a pair of opposed side panels and a pair of opposite end panels. Each of the end panels is connected to the side panels by a pair of divergent fold lines respectively such that the side panels and the end panels together define a single band structure encircling the group of the articles.

Optionally, each of the end panels is folded with respect to the side panels about the respective pair of divergent fold lines such that opposed end portions of each end panel are in overlapping arrangement with the side panels.

Optionally, the opposed end portions of each end panel are adhesively secured to the side panels.

Optionally, the bundling device is formed from a single blank of sheet material having first and second opposed sides, wherein the first side of the blank is exposed to view by the side panels and wherein the second side of the blank is exposed to view by the end panels.

Optionally, each pair of divergent fold lines extends from an upper or lower edge of a respective one of the end panels divergently toward the side panels.

Optionally, the bundling device comprises at least a pair of keel panels hingedly connected to each other by a keel fold line, the at least pair of keel panels being disposed between at least two adjacent ones of the articles and connecting between the side panels.

Optionally, the bundling device is disposed at or below a medial portion of the articles.

Optionally, the bundling device is initially connected to the top-engaging device.

A second aspect of the invention provides an article carrier for packaging one or more articles. The article carrier comprises a top-engaging device for engagement with tops of the articles such that the tops of the articles are connected and held together by the top-engaging device and a bundling device spaced apart from the top-engaging device for engagement with portions of the articles below the tops thereof such that the portions of the articles are held together by the bundling device. The bundling device comprises a pair of opposed side panels and a pair of opposite end panels. Each of the end panels is connected to the side panels by a pair of divergent fold lines respectively such that the side panels and the end panels together define a single band structure for encircling the group of the articles.

Optionally, the bundling device is separate from the top-engaging device. Optionally, the bundling device is initially connected to the top-engaging device.

A third aspect of the invention provides a pair of blanks for forming an article carrier for packaging one or more articles. The pair of blanks comprises a first blank for forming a top-engaging device and a second blank for forming a bundling device for engaging with portions of the articles below the tops thereof such that the portions of the articles are held together by the bundling device. The first blank comprises an engaging panel having one or more retention structures for engaging with tops of the articles such that the tops of the articles are connected and held together by the top-engaging device. The second blank comprise a pair of opposed side panels and a pair of opposite end panels. Each of the end panels is connected to the side panels by a pair of divergent fold lines respectively such that the side panels and the end panels together define a single band structure for encircling the group of the articles.

A fourth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier comprising a top-engaging device-forming portion and a bundling or grouping device forming portion detachably connected to the top-engaging device-forming portion. The bundling device-forming portion comprises opposing end panels and opposing side panels. Each end panel is connected to a side panel by a pair of divergent fold lines such that the opposing end panels and opposing side panels define a single band structure for encircling the group of articles.

A fifth aspect of the invention provides a blank for forming an article carrier comprising a top-engaging device-forming portion and a bundling or grouping device-forming portion. The top-engaging device-forming portion comprises a main panel and a pair of opposed side panels hingedly connected to the main panel. The bundling device forming portion is detachably connected to each of the pair of opposed side or shoulder panels.

A sixth aspect of the invention provides an article top-receiving device in a main panel of an article carrier. The article top-receiving device comprising an opening and a plurality of engaging tabs. The plurality of engaging tabs comprising at least one first tab connected to the main panel by a linear fold line and at least one second tab partially connected from the main panel by a non-linear cut.

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:

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

Figure 2 is a plan view from above of a second blank for forming a second carrier according to embodiments of the present disclosure;

Figure 3 is a perspective view from above of a package formed from the first blank of Figure 1 and the second blank of Figure 2;

Figure 4 is a plan view from above of a first blank for forming a first carrier according to a second embodiment;

Figure 5 is a perspective view from above of a package formed from the first blank of Figure 4 and the second blank of Figure 2;

Figure 6 is a plan view from above of a blank for forming a package according to a second embodiment; Figure 7 and 8 illustrate stages of construction of a package from the blank of Figure 6; and

Figure 9 is a perspective view from above of a package formed from the blank of Figure 6.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of the package, 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 Figure 1 , there is shown a plan view of a first blank 10 which is capable of forming a first carton or carrier 92, as shown in Figure 3, 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 part of a secondary package 90 for packaging at least one primary product container or package. A plan view of a second blank 110 is shown in Figure 2 which is capable of forming a second carton or carrier 94. The blank 110 forms a part of the secondary package 90 shown in Figure 3. An alternative first blank 310 is shown in Figures 4, for forming an alternative first carton or carrier 392, as shown in Figure 5.

A further alternative blank 410 is shown in Figure 6, for forming an alternative first carton or carrier 492 and an alternative a second carton or carrier 494, as shown in Figure 9. In the embodiments detailed herein, the terms “carton” and “carrier” refer, for the nonlimiting purpose of illustrating the various features of the invention, to a container for engaging and carrying articles, such as primary product containers. 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 include bottles (for example metallic, glass or plastics bottles), cans (for example aluminum cans), tins, pouches, packets and the like.

The blanks 10; 110; 310; 410 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 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; 310; 410 are configured to form a carton or carrier 92; 94; 392; 492 for packaging an exemplary arrangement of exemplary articles B. In the embodiments illustrated, the arrangement is a 3 x2 matrix or array. In the embodiment of Figures 1 to 3 and the embodiment of Figures 6 to 9 three rows of two articles are provided, and the articles B are bottles. In the embodiment of Figures 4 and 5 three rows of two articles are provided, and the articles B are beverage cans. Alternatively, the blanks 10; 110; 310; 410 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.

Figure 1 illustrates a first embodiment and shows a first blank 10 for forming a first carrier 92 shown in Figure 3. The first carrier 92 takes the form of a top gripping clip. The first carrier 92 comprises openings configured to receive the articles B, the openings are arranged to accommodate a neck or upper portion of the articles B above a main body and/or shoulders of the articles B.

The first blank 10 comprises an engaging panel 12. The engaging panel 12 comprises a plurality of retention structures RT1, each retention structure RT1 provides an opening for receiving a respective article B. The retention structures RT1 comprise an article receiving aperture AP1 about which a plurality of teeth or tabs 14 are disposed. Each of the teeth 14 is struck from the engaging panel 12 and is hingedly connected thereto. Each tooth 14 is defined, in part, by a pair of cut lines 13, 15. The cut lines 13, 15 extend radially outward from the article receiving aperture AP1. The cut lines 13, 15 may be terminated by a transverse cut 17, a hinged connection is defined between pairs of cuts 17.

Optionally, the first blank 10 comprises a handle structure H. The handle structure H may comprise a pair of finger openings spaced apart from each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the finger openings are defined by a foldable tab 60 struck from the engaging panel 12 and hingedly connected thereto by hinged connections in the form of fold lines 61. A first of the foldable tabs 60 is hinged in opposition to a second one of the foldable tabs 60.

The first blank 10 forms a first carrier 92, the first blank 10 is lowered with respect to a group of articles B. Each opening of the retention structures RT1 receives one of the articles B forming the group. An end closure or upper end of the articles B passes through the openings. The tabs 14 fold out of the plane of the engaging panel 12. The tabs 14 fold upwardly, the tabs 14 engage an article B below a flange or projection extending radially outward from the neck of the article B. The tabs 14 support the article B and inhibit movement or withdrawal of the article B from the opening. The openings of the retention structures RT1 are dimensioned to be smaller than the main body and/or shoulders of the articles B so as to prevent the first carrier 92 moving downward about the main body of the articles B.

Figure 2 illustrates a first embodiment and shows a second blank 110 for forming a second carrier 94 shown in Figure 3. The second carrier 94 takes the form of a medial band or clip; the second carrier 94 comprises openings configured to receive the articles B, the openings are arranged to accommodate a neck and main body of the articles B. In this way the second carrier 94 can be located at any height with respect to the articles B. In some embodiments, the second carrier 94 is medially located between upper and lower ends of the articles B.

The second blank 110 comprises a main panel 112; the main panel 112 comprises opposed marginal end portions 112a, 112b and keel panels 140a, 140b, 142a, 142b disposed therebetween.

The second blank 110 comprises a first marginal end portion 112a struck from the main panel 112; the first marginal end portion 112a forms a first end wall of the second carrier 94 in a setup condition. The first marginal end portion 112a is also referred to herein as an end bridging strap and may serve to provide a carrying handle at a first end of the second carrier 94.

The second blank 110 comprises a second marginal end portion 112b struck from the main panel 112; the second marginal end portion 112b forms a second end wall of the second carrier 94 in a setup condition. The second marginal end portion 112b is also referred to herein as an end bridging strap and may serve to provide a carrying handle at a second end of the second carrier 94.

The second blank 110 comprises a first keel structure IS1 and a second keel structure IS2 each struck from the main panel 112.

The second blank 110 comprises a first pair of keel panels 140a, 140b. The first pair of keel panels 140a, 140b are struck from the main panel 112 and hingedly connected to each other by a fold line 141. The first pair of keel panels 140a, 140b is disposed adjacent to the first marginal end portion 112a and are separated therefrom by a cutline or severable line.

The second blank 110 comprises a second pair of keel panels 142a, 142b. The second pair of keel panels 142a, 142b are struck from the main panel 112 and hingedly connected to each other by a fold line 143. The second pair of keel panels 142a, 142b is disposed adjacent to the second marginal end portion 112b and are separated therefrom by a cutline or severable line.

The second pair of keel panels 142a, 142b are disposed adjacent to the first pair of keel panels 140a, 140b and are separated therefrom by a cutline or severable line 139.

The second blank 110 comprises a first side panel 118 and a second side panel 120 disposed on opposing sides of the main panel 112.

The first marginal end portion 112a is hingedly connected to the first side panel 118 and to the second side panel 120.

The first marginal end portion 112a is hingedly connected to a first gusset panel 122a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 121a. A first web panel 124a is hingedly connected to the first gusset panel 122a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 123a. The first web panel 124a is hingedly connected to the first side panel 118 (specifically to an end region 118a) by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 117a.

The first marginal end portion 112a is hingedly connected to a second gusset panel 122b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 121b. A second web panel 124b is hingedly connected to the second gusset panel 122b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 123b. The second web panel 124b is hingedly connected to the second side panel 120 (specifically to an end region 120a) by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 119a.

Fold line 121b is divergently arranged with respect to fold line 121a. The second marginal end portion 112b is hingedly connected to the first side panel 118 and to the second side panel 120.

The second marginal end portion 112b is hingedly connected to a third gusset panel 134a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 133a. A third web panel 136a is hingedly connected to the third gusset panel 134a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 135a. The third web panel 136a is hingedly connected to the first side panel 118 (specifically to an end region 118b) by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 117b.

The second marginal end portion 112b is hingedly connected to a fourth gusset panel 134b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 133b. A fourth web panel 136b is hingedly connected to the fourth gusset panel 134b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 135b. The fourth web panel 136b is hingedly connected to the second side panel 120 (specifically to an end region 120b) by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 119b.

Fold line 133b is divergently arranged with respect to fold line 133a.

Optionally, a fold line may extend across each end region 118a, 118b, 120a, 120b. An optional fold line may extend across end region 118a from an outer end of fold line 117a to an outer end of fold line F1. An optional fold line may extend across end region 120a from an outer end of fold line 119b to an outer end of fold line F3. An optional fold line may extend across end region 118b from an outer end of fold line 117b to an outer end of fold line F2. An optional fold line may extend across end region 120b from an outer end of fold line 119b to an outer end of fold line F4.

The first pair of keel panels 140a, 140b are hingedly connected to each of the first and second side panels 118, 120. A first strut panel 144a is hingedly connected to a first end of a first keel panel 140a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 145a. A second strut panel 146a is hingedly connected to a second end of the first keel panel 140a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 145b.

The first strut panel 144a is hingedly connected to a first brace panel 148a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 147a. The second strut panel 146a is hingedly connected to a second brace panel 148b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 147b.

A third strut panel 144b is hingedly connected to a first end of a second keel panel 140b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 145c. A fourth strut panel 146b is hingedly connected to a second end of the second keel panel 140b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 145d.

The third strut panel 144b is hingedly connected to the first brace panel 148a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 147c. The fold line 147c is divergently arranged with respect to the fold line 147a. The first brace panel 148a is hingedly connected to the first side panel 118 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 117c. The first brace panel 148a may be substantially triangular in shape. The first and second strut panels 144a, 146a may be substantially trapezoidal in shape.

The fourth strut panel 146b is hingedly connected to the second brace panel 148b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 147d. The fold line 147d is divergently arranged with respect to the fold line 147b. The second brace panel 148b is hingedly connected to the second side panel 118 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 119c. The second brace panel 148b may be substantially triangular in shape. The third and fourth strut panels 144b, 146b may be substantially trapezoidal in shape.

The second pair of keel panels 142a, 142b are hingedly connected to each of the first and second side panels 118, 120. A fifth strut panel 150a is hingedly connected to a first end of a fourth keel panel 142a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 149a. A sixth strut panel 152a is hingedly connected to a second end of the fourth keel panel 142a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 149b.

The fifth strut panel 150a is hingedly connected to a third brace panel 154a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 151a. The sixth strut panel 152a is hingedly connected to a fourth brace panel 154b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 149b.

A seventh strut panel 150b is hingedly connected to a first end of a third keel panel 142b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 149c. An eighth strut panel 152b is hingedly connected to a second end of the third keel panel 142b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 149d.

The seventh strut panel 150b is hingedly connected to the third brace panel 154a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 151c. The fold line 151c is divergently arranged with respect to the fold line 151a. The third brace panel 154a is hingedly connected to the first side panel 118 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 117d. The third brace panel 54a may be substantially triangular in shape. The fifth and sixth strut panels 150a, 152a may be substantially trapezoidal in shape.

The eighth strut panel 152b is hingedly connected to the fourth brace panel 154b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 151 d. The fold line 149d is divergently arranged with respect to the fold line 151b. The fourth brace panel 154b is hingedly connected to the second side panel 118 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 119d. The fourth brace panel 154b may be substantially triangular in shape. The seventh and eighth strut panels 150b, 152b may be substantially trapezoidal in shape.

The second blank 110 comprises a plurality of cutaways in the form of apertures A1 , A2, A3, A4, A5, A6. A first aperture A1 separates the first gusset panel 122a from the first strut panel 144a and separates a portion of the first marginal end portion 112a from the first strut panel 144a and a portion of the first keel panel 140a. A second aperture A2 separates the second gusset panel 122b from the second strut panel 146a and separates a portion of the first marginal end portion 112a from the second strut panel 146a and a portion of the first keel panel 140a. A third aperture A3 separates the third strut panel 144b from the seventh strut panel 150b, and separates a portion of the second keel panel 140b from a portion of the third keel panel 142b. A fourth aperture A4 separates the fourth strut panel 146b from the eighth strut panel 152b, and separates a portion of the second keel panel 140b from a portion of the third keel panel 142b. A fifth aperture A5 separates the third gusset panel 134a from the fifth strut panel 150a and separates a portion of the second marginal end portion 112b from the fifth strut panel 150a and a portion of the fourth keel panel 142a. A sixth aperture A6 separates the fourth gusset panel 134b from the sixth strut panel 152a and separates a portion of the second marginal end portion 112b from the eighth strut panel 152b and a portion of the fourth keel panel 142a. The first, third, and fifth apertures A1 , A3, A5 separate portions of the first side panel 118 from the main panel 112. The second, fourth, and sixth apertures A2, A4, A6 separate portions of the second side panel 120 from the main panel 112.

The fold lines 145a, 145c, 149a and the fold line 149c are offset with respect to the fold line 121a and the fold line 133a.

The fold line 145a is collinear with the fold line 145c, the fold line 149c and the fold line 149a.

The fold line 145b is collinear with the fold line 145d, the fold line 149d and the fold line 149b.

The fold lines 145b, 145d, 149b and the fold line 149d are offset with respect to the fold line 121b and the fold line 133b.

In this way the keel panels 140a, 140b, 142a, 142b are shorter in length in the transverse direction than the first and second end panels 112a, 112b.

Optionally, the first side panel 118 may comprise a first fold line F1 extending transversely thereacross. The first fold line F1 defines at least in part a first end region 118a of the first side panel 118. The first fold line F1 extends from an inner end of the fold line 117a, at the point it meets the fold line 123a.

Optionally, the first side panel 118 may comprise a second fold line F2 extending transversely thereacross. The second fold line F2 defines at least in part a second end region 118b of the first side panel 118. The second fold line F2 extends from an inner end of the fold line 117b, at the point it meets the fold line 135a.

The first and second fold lines F1 , F2 each define, at least in part, side end portions 118a, 118b which may fold about the respective one of the first and second fold lines F 1 , F2 to tighten the second carrier 94 about the corner or endmost articles B.

Optionally, the second side panel 120 may comprise a third fold line F3 extending transversely thereacross. The third fold line F3 defines at least in part a first end region 120a of the second side panel 120. The third fold line F3 extends from an inner end of the fold line 119a, at the point it meets the fold line 123b.

Optionally, the second side panel 120 may comprise a fourth fold line F4 extending transversely thereacross. The fourth fold line F4 defines at least in part a second end region 120b of the second side panel 120. The fourth fold line F4 extends from an inner end of the fold line 119b, at the point it meets the fold line 135b.

The third and fourth fold lines F3, F4 each define, at least in part, side end portions 120a, 120b which may fold about the respective one of the third and fourth fold lines F3, F4 to tighten the second carrier 94 about the corner or endmost articles B.

In a setup condition, the first side panel 118 is folded with respect the main panel 112 about fold lines 117a, 117b, 117c, 117d such that a first, printed, or finished surface thereof is disposed outermost and the second side panel 120 is folded with respect the main panel 112 about fold lines 119a, 119b, 119c, 119d such that a first, printed, or finished surface thereof is disposed outermost.

The first end panel 112a is folded about fold lines 123a, 123b such that a second, reverse, or unfinished surface thereof is disposed outermost. The second inner end panel 112b is folded about fold lines 135a, 135b such that a second, reverse, or unfinished surface thereof is disposed outermost.

The first and second keel panels 140a, 140b are folded, about fold line 141 , with respect to each other to be substantially in face-to-face relationship. The third and fourth keel panels 142b, 142a are folded, about fold line 143, with respect to each other to be substantially in face-to-face relationship.

The first and third brace panels 148a, 154a are folded at an oblique angle to the first side panel 118.

The second and fourth brace panels 148b, 154b are folded at an oblique angle to the second side panel 120. The first and third strut panels 144a, 144b extend divergently from the first and second keel panels 140a, 140b to the first brace panel 148a. The second and fourth strut panels 146a, 146b extend divergently from the first and second keel panels 140a, 140b to the second brace panel 148b.

The fifth and seventh strut panels 150a, 150b extend divergently from the fourth and third keel panels 142a, 142b to the third brace panel 154a. The sixth and eighth strut panels 152a, 152b extend divergently from the fourth and third keel panels 142a, 142b to the fourth brace panel 154b.

Glue G or other adhesive treatment, for example, but not limited to hot melt glue, is applied to an inner surface of the first side panel 118 (more specifically side end portions 118a, 118b), or alternatively to outer surfaces (reverse surfaces) of the first and third gusset panels 122a, 134a. The first and third gusset panels 122a, 134a are secured to the first side panel 118.

Glue G or other adhesive treatment, for example, but not limited to hot melt glue, is applied to an inner surface of the second side panel 120 (more specifically side end portions 120a, 120b), or alternatively to outer surfaces (reverse surfaces) of the second and fourth gusset panels 122b, 134b. The second and fourth gusset panels 122b, 134b are secured to the second side panel 120.

Optionally, a fugitive glue G2 may be employed to secure the first and second side panels 118, 120 directly to the articles B. An example of a specific glue is Swift 7044 manufactured by HB Fuller. Use of a fugitive glue is optional, an advantage of a fugitive glue is its tendency to remain attached to the second carrier 94 when the articles B are disengaged from the second carrier 94 (this may be more desirable than having the glue G2 remain attached to the articles B). In alternative embodiments other adhesives maybe employed such as, but not limited to, hot-melt glue.

The second carrier 94 is shown in Figure 3; the second carrier 94 is mounted to the articles B so as to be disposed about a main body of the article B, below a neck. The second carrier 94 may be mounted to the articles B at any position along the cylindrical axis of the articles B, such that when the second carrier 94 and articles B are at rest as shown in Figure 3, with their cylindrical axes generally upright, the second carrier 94 may be disposed at any height between upper and lower ends of the articles B. In the illustrated embodiment, the second carrier 94 is located below a medial portion of the articles B.

Together the first and second carriers 92, 94 and the articles B form a package 90. The first and second carriers 92, 94 are separate from each other or that is to say they are independent of one another. The second carrier 94 can be moved with respect to the articles B and the first carrier 92. The second carrier 94 is shown in Figure 3 disposed below a medial portion of the articles B, although in other embodiments the second carrier 94 may be located closer to the upper or lower ends of the articles B, and may be or disposed closer to, or further away from, the first carrier 92.

Referring now to Figure 4 and 5, there is shown an additional embodiment of the present disclosure. In the second illustrated embodiment like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix “300” to indicate that these features belong to the second embodiment. The additional embodiment shares many common features with the first embodiment and therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 3 will be described in detail.

Figure 4 illustrates a second embodiment and shows an alternative first blank 310 for forming an alternative first carrier 392 as shown in Figure 5. The first blank 310 is employed with the second blank 110 of Figure 2 to form a package 390 according to a second illustrated embodiment.

The first carrier 392 takes the form of a top gripping clip. The first carrier 392 comprises openings configured to receive the articles B which are beverage cans, the openings are arranged to accommodate a neck of the articles B above a main body and/or shoulders of the articles B.

The first blank 310 comprises an engaging panel 312. The engaging panel 312 comprises a plurality of retention structures RT2, each retention structure RT2 provides an opening for receiving a respective article B. The retention structures RT2 comprise an article receiving aperture AP2 about which a plurality of teeth or tabs 314 are disposed in an annular series. Each of the teeth 314 is struck from the engaging panel 312 and is hingedly connected thereto. Each tooth 314 is defined, in part, by a pair of cut lines 313, 315. The cut lines 313, 315 extend radially outward from the article receiving aperture AP2. A circumferential fold line 319 surrounds the annular series of tabs 314. The cut lines 313, 315 terminate at the circumferential fold line 319.

The end most retention structures RT2 disposed adjacent to corners of the engaging panel 312 each comprise eleven tabs 314, each tab 314 comprises a linear engaging edge which defines a part of the article receiving aperture AP2. The article receiving aperture AP2 is a polygon, in the illustrated embodiment, a hendecagon.

The intermediate or medial retention structures RT2 disposed between the end most retention structures RT2 each comprise twelve tabs 314, each tab 314 comprises a linear engaging edge which defines a part of the article receiving aperture AP2. The article receiving aperture AP2 is a polygon, in the illustrated embodiment, a dodecagon.

Optionally, the first blank 310 comprises a handle structure H. The handle structure H may comprise a pair of finger openings spaced apart from each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the finger openings are defined by apertures HA1 , HA2. The apertures HA1, HA2 may be substantially diamond shaped.

The first blank 310 forms a first carrier 392, the first blank 310 is lowered with respect to a group of articles B. Each opening of the retention structures RT2 receives one of the articles B forming the group. An upper end of the articles B passes through the openings. The tabs 314 fold out of the plane of the engaging panel 312. The tabs 314 fold upwardly, the tabs 314 engage an article B below a flange or projection extending radially outward from the neck of the article B. The flange may be provided by an end seam or chime of a can. The tabs 314 support the article B and inhibit movement or withdrawal of the article B from the opening.

Referring now to Figure 6 to 9, there is shown an additional embodiment of the present disclosure. In the third illustrated embodiment like numerals have, where possible, been used to denote like parts, albeit with the addition of the prefix “400” to indicate that these features belong to the third embodiment. The additional embodiment shares many common features with the previous embodiments and therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 5 will be described in detail.

Figure 6 illustrates a blank 410 for forming a first carrier 492 and a second carrier 494, together forming a package 490 as shown in Figure 9. The first carrier 492 takes the form of a top gripping clip. The first carrier 492 comprises openings configured to receive the articles B, the openings are arranged to accommodate a neck or upper portion of the articles B above a main body and/or shoulders of the articles B.

The blank 410 comprises a first portion for forming a first carrier 492, the first portion includes a main or engaging panel 412.

The first portion comprises a first side or shoulder panel 420 hingedly connected to a first side edge of the main panel 412 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 421.

The first portion comprises a second side or shoulder panel 422 hingedly connected to a first side edge of the main panel 412 by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 423.

The engaging panel 412 comprises a plurality of retention structures RT1 , each retention structure RT1 provides an opening for receiving a respective article B. The retention structures RT1 comprise an article receiving aperture AP1 about which a plurality of teeth or tabs 414a, 414b, 416 are disposed. Each of the teeth 414a, 414b, 416 is struck from the engaging panel 412 and is hingedly connected thereto. Each tooth 414a, 414b, 416 is defined, in part, by a pair of cut lines 413, 415. The cut lines 413, 415 extend radially outward from the article receiving aperture AP1.

The illustrated embodiment comprises eight teeth 414a, 414b, 416 defined about the receiving aperture AP1, each tooth 414a, 414b, 416 comprises a free engaging edge opposing a hinged connection between each tooth 414a, 414b, 416 and the main panel 412. Each free engaging edge defines a portion the receiving aperture AP1 , the receiving aperture AP1 may be substantially octagonal in shape. The retention structures RT 1 comprise at least one first tab 414a coupled or connected to the main or engaging panel 412 by a linear fold line 417. The linear fold line 417 may be defined in part by a linear cut line. The linear fold line 417 may be non-parallel to an opposing free engaging edge of the at least one first tab 414a.

The retention structures RT1 comprise at least one second tab 414b coupled or connected to the main or engaging panel 412. The at least one second tab 414b is partially disconnected from the main panel 412 by a non-linear, optionally arcuate, cut line 419. The non-linear cut line 419 defines a lobe 418 struck from the at least one second tab 414b.

The retention structure RT1 may comprise a plurality of second tabs 414b each having a lobe 418. The plurality of second tabs 414b may be arranged about the opening such that the lobes 418 encourage an article B, when received in the opening, towards the first or second side edges of the main panel 412.

Optionally, the retention structures RT1 comprise a third tab 416. The third tab 416 is integral with one of the first and second side panel 420, 422 and interrupts the hinged connection 421 , 423 between said one of the first and second side/shoulder panels 420, 422 and the main panel 412.

The third tabs 416 are arranged to fold simultaneously with the one of the first and second shoulder panels 420, 422 from which they extend.

The third tabs 416 may be displaced out of the plane of the main panel 412 when said one of the first and second shoulder panels 420, 422 from which they extend is folded with respect to the main panel 412.

Alternatively, when the blank 410 is lowered with respect to a group of articles B, and the articles B are received by the retention structures RT 1 , the articles B may displace the third tabs 416 out of the plane of the main panel 412. The first and second shoulder panels 420, 422 may be fold in response to receipt of the articles B in the retention structures RT1. Alternatively, the third tabs 416 are arranged to fold independently of the one of the first and second shoulder panels 420, 422 from which they extend. The third tabs 416 may be folded out of the plane of the main panel 412 while the one of the first and second shoulder panels 420, 422 remains in the plane of the main panel 412. When the third tabs 416 are folded, creases may be naturally formed between the one of the first and second shoulder panels 420, 422 and the third tabs 416. Alternatively, fold lines may be pre-formed between them to facilitate folding of the third tabs 416 along such fold lines.

In the illustrated embodiment, each retention structure RT1 comprises a pair of first tabs 414a disposed on opposing sides of the third tab 416.

In the illustrated embodiment, each retention structure RT1 comprises a plurality - specifically, but not limited to, five- of second tabs 414b disposed substantially about in inner half of the perimeter of the receiving aperture AP1.

Optionally, the first portion comprises a handle structure H. The handle structure H may comprise a pair of handle openings spaced apart from each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the handle openings are defined in part by a handle aperture AH and in part by a foldable tab 460 struck from the engaging panel 412 and hingedly connected thereto by hinged connections in the form of fold lines 461. A first of the foldable tabs 460 is hinged in opposition to a second one of the foldable tabs 460.

The blank 410 comprises a second portion including a plurality of panels for forming a second carrier 494 shown in Figure 9. The second carrier 494 takes the form of a medial band or clip. The second carrier 494 can be located at any height with respect to the articles B, about a main body portion thereof. In some embodiments, the second carrier 494 is medially located between upper and lower ends of the articles B.

The second portion comprises first and second end panels 482a, 482b and first and second side panels 480a, 480b extending therebetween.

The second portion is disposed about the first portion. The second portion surrounds the first portion. The second portion is frangibly connected to the first portion. The first and second end panels 482a, 482b are severably connected to the main panel 412 by frangible connections 483a, 483b respectively. The first and second side panels 480a, 480b are severably connected to a respective one of the first and second shoulder panels 420, 422 by frangible connections 481a, 481b respectively.

The frangible connections 481a, 481b may be oriented substantially parallel to the hinged connections 481a, 481b between the shoulder panels 420, 422 and the main panel 412.

The first portion defines, at least a part of, an opening in the second portion; said opening being dimensioned sufficient to accommodate the footprint of the article group -that is to say the opening is sufficient to allow the article group to pass therethrough, best shown in Figure 8.

The first end panel 482a is securable to the first side panel 480a by a first securing panel 486a. The first securing panel 486a may be hingedly connected to a first corner panel 484a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 487a. The first corner panel 484a is hingedly connected to a first side of the first end panel 482a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 485a. In some embodiments, the first end panel 482a is directly hinged to the first securing panel 486a.

A first web panel 488a may couple the first securing panel 486a to the first side panel 480a. The first web panel 488a may be hingedly connected to the first securing panel 486a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 489a. The first web panel 488a may be hingedly connected to the first side panel 480a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 491a.

The first end panel 482a is securable to the second side panel 480b by a second securing panel 486b. The second securing panel 486b may be hingedly connected to a second corner panel 484b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 487b. The second corner panel 484b is hingedly connected to a second side of the first end panel 482a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 485b. In some embodiments, the first end panel 482a is directly hinged to the second securing panel 486b.

A second web panel 488b may couple the second securing panel 486b to the second side panel 480b. The second web panel 488b may be hingedly connected to the second securing panel 486b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 489b. The second web panel 488b may be hingedly connected to the second side panel 480b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 491b.

The second end panel 482b is securable to the first side panel 480a by a third securing panel 486c. The third securing panel 486c may be hingedly connected to a third corner panel 484c by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 487c. The third corner panel 484c is hingedly connected to a first side of the second end panel 482b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 485c. In some embodiments, the second end panel 482b is directly hinged to the third securing panel 486c.

A third web panel 488c may couple the third securing panel 486c to the first side panel 480a. The third web panel 488c may be hingedly connected to the third securing panel 486c by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 489c. The third web panel 488c may be hingedly connected to the first side panel 480a by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 491c.

The second end panel 482b is securable to the second side panel 480b by a fourth securing panel 486d. The fourth securing panel 486d may be hingedly connected to a fourth corner panel 484d by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 487d. The fourth corner panel 484d is hingedly connected to a second side of the second end panel 482b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 485d. In some embodiments, the second end panel 482b is directly hinged to the fourth securing panel 486d.

A fourth web panel 488d may couple the fourth securing panel 486d to the second side panel 480b. The fourth web panel 488d may be hingedly connected to the fourth securing panel 486d by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 489d. The fourth web panel 488d may be hingedly connected to the second side panel 480b by a hinged connection in the form of a fold line 491 d.

The web panels 488a, 488b, 488c, 488d may be separated from the first portion, specifically, but not limited to, the shoulder panels 420, 422 by a cutaway in the form of an aperture AC. Each aperture AC defines a corner of one of the shoulder panels 420, 422. The corner may be beveled, chamfered or filleted.

Figure 7 illustrates a stage of construction of the blank 410 into a package 490. The blank 410 has been applied to a group of articles B. Upper ends -specifically, but not limited to, end closures- have been received in the article retention structures RT1. The tabs 414a, 414b, 416 engage an article B below a flange or projection extending therefrom. During the process of receiving the upper ends of the articles B in the retention structures RT 1 , the first and second portions of the blank 410 may yet be fully connected and thus may remain in the same plane. Alternatively, the shoulder panels 420, 422 may be folded downwards about their respective fold lines 421, 423 as the third tabs 416 are thrust aside by the upper ends of the articles B. Such downward movement of the shoulder panels 420, 422 may take place while the first and second side panels 480a, 480b are yet in the plane of the main panel 412, which may cause separation of the shoulder panels 420, 422 from the side panels 480a, 480b along the frangible connections 481a, 481b.

Referring to Figure 7, the second portion has been partially separated from the first portion in preparation for construction about the group of articles B below the first portion.

Upon separation of the second portion from the first portion the second portion is moved downwardly about the group of articles B, as shown in Figure 8.

The end panels 482a, 482b are folded such that an inner surface is brought into face- to-face relationship with a respective end of the article group. The corner panel 484a, 484b, 48c, 48d are folded about corners of the article group. The securing panels 486a, 486b ,486c, 486d are folded about respective sides of the article group. Glue or other adhesive is applied to the securing panels 486a, 486b ,486c, 486d. The side panels 480a, 480b are folded downwardly to bring inner faces thereof into face-to-face relationship with a respective side of the article group. The web panels 488a, 488b, 488c, 488d are tucked in between the securing panel 486a, 486b ,486c, 486d and the side panel 480a, 480b to which they are hinged. Portions of the side panels 480a, 480b are brought into face contacting relationship with the securing panels 486a, 486b ,486c, 486d and secured thereto, as shown in Figure 9.

The present disclosure provides a carrier 94 having a main panel 112 with openings for receiving at least one article B and at least one keel structure IS1 , IS2 for spacing apart or separating a pair of adjacent articles B.

The present disclosure provides a package 90; 390; 490 comprising a plurality of articles B arranged in a group. The package 90; 390; 490 comprises a top-engaging device 92; 392; 492 in engagement with tops of the articles B such that the tops of the articles B are connected and held together by the top-engaging device 92; 392; 492. The package 90; 390; 490 comprises bundling device 94; 494 spaced apart from the top-engaging device 92; 392; 492 and in engagement with portions of the articles B below the tops thereof. In this way the portions of the articles B engaged by the bundling device 94; 494 are held together by the bundling device 94; 494. The bundling device 94; 494 comprises a pair of opposed side panels 118, 120; 480a, 480b and a pair of opposite end panels 112a, 112b; 482a, 482b. Each of the end panels 112a, 112b; 482a, 482b is connected to each of the side panels 118, 120; 480a, 480b, via a pair of divergent fold lines 123a/123b, 135a/135b; 489a/491a, 489b/491b, 489c/491c, 489d/491d. A first one 123a, 135a; 489a, 489c of the pair of divergent fold lines 123a/123b, 135a/135b; 489a/491a, 489b/491b, 489c/491c, 489d/491d connects a first end of the end panels 112a, 112b; 482a, 482b to a first side panel 118; 480a. A second one 123b, 135b; 489b, 489d of the pair of divergent fold lines 123a/123b, 135a/135b; 489a/491a, 489b/491b, 489c/491c, 489d/491d connects a second end of the end panels 112a, 112b; 482a, 482b to a second side panel 120; 480b. The side panels 118, 120; 480a, 480b and the end panels 112a, 112b; 482a, 482b together define a single band structure encircling the group of the articles B.

Each of the end panels 112a, 112b is folded with respect to the side panels 118, 120 about the respective pair of divergent fold lines 123a/123b, 135a/135b such that opposed end portions of each end panel 112a, 112b are in overlapping arrangement with the side panels 118, 120. The opposed end portions of each end panel 112a, 112b may be adhesively secured to the side panels 118, 120.

The bundling device 94 is formed from a single blank 110 of sheet material having first and second opposed sides. The first side of the blank 110 is exposed to view by the side panels 118, 120 and the second side of the blank 310 is exposed to view by the end panels 112a, 112b. That is to say a first side or surface of the side panels 118, 120 is externally facing and a second opposing side or surface of the end panels 112a, 112b is externally facing.

Each fold line 123a, 123b, 135a, 135b of the pair of divergent fold lines 123a/123b, 135a/135b extends from an outer edge of a respective one of the end panels 112a, 112b divergently toward one of the side panels 118, 120.

The bundling device 94 may further comprise at least a pair of keel panels 140a/140b, 142a/142b hingedly connected to each other by a keel fold line 141 , 143. Each of the keel panels 140a, 140b, 142a, 142b connects between the side panels 118, 120.

The keel structure IS1 , IS2 may comprise a pair of keel panels 140a/140b, 142a/142b hingedly connected to each other by a fold line 141 , 143. The keel structure IS1 , IS2 may comprise a pair of strut panels 144a, 144b, 146a, 146b, 150a, 150b, 152a, 152b hingedly connected to a respective one of the pair of keel panels 140a/140b, 142a/142b. A brace panel 148a, 148b, 154a, 154b couples a first one of the pair of strut panels 144a, 144b, 146a, 146b, 150a, 150b, 152a, 152b to the other one of the pair of strut panels 144a, 144b, 146a, 146b, 150a, 150b, 152a, 152b. An aperture may be struck in part from each of the pair of keel panels 140a/140b, 142a/142b, the pair of strut panels 144a, 144b, 146a, 146b, 150a, 150b, 152a, 152b and the brace panel 148a, 148b, 154a, 154b.

The carrier 94 may be formed from material having a first, printed, or finished surface and a second, reverse, or unfinished surface opposing the first surface. The second, reverse, surface of the end bridging strap 112a, 112b is arranged to face outwardly to provide an external face of the carrier 94. The first, printed, or finished surface of the side panel or strap 118, 120 is arranged to face outwardly to provide an external face of the carrier 94. Glue or adhesive treatment (such as hot-melt glue) may be applied to the second, reverse, surface of the end bridging strap 112a, 112b. The second, reverse, surface of the end bridging strap 112a, 112b may be secured to the second, reverse, surface of the adjacent side panel or strap 118, 120.

The present disclosure also provides an article carrier 490 comprising a top-engaging device 492 and a bundling or grouping device 494. The bundling device 494 is initially connected to the top-engaging device 492.

Embodiments of the disclosure provide a blank 10, 110; 10, 310; 410 for forming an article carrier 90; 390; 490 comprising a top-engaging device-forming portion 92; 392; 492 and a bundling or grouping device-forming portion 94; 494 detachably connected to the top-engaging device-forming portion 92; 392; 492. The bundling device-forming portion 94; 494 comprises opposing end panels 112a, 112b; 482a, 482b and opposing side panels 118, 120; 480a, 480b. Each end panel 112a, 112b; 482a, 482b is connected to the side panels 118, 120; 480a, 480b by a pair of divergent fold lines 123a/123b, 135a/135b; 489a/489b, 489c/489d such that the opposing end panels 112a, 112b; 482a, 482b and opposing side panels 118, 120; 480a, 480b define a single band structure for encircling the group of articles B.

Various embodiments of the disclosure also provide a blank 10, 110; 10, 310; 410 for forming an article carrier 90; 390; 490 comprising a top-engaging device-forming portion 92; 392; 492 and a bundling or grouping device-forming portion 94; 494. The top-engaging device-forming portion 92; 392; 492 comprises a main panel 412 and a pair of opposed side or shoulder panels 420, 422 hingedly connected to the main panel 412. The bundling device-forming portion 94; 494 is detachably connected to each of the pair of opposed side or shoulder panels 420, 422.

The present disclosure also provides an article top-receiving device in a main panel 412 and comprising an opening AP1 and a plurality of engaging tabs 414a, 414b, 416. The plurality of engaging tabs 414a, 414b, 416 comprises at least one first tab 414a connected to the main panel 412 by a linear fold line 417 and at least one second tab 414a partially connected from the main panel 412 by a non-linear cut 419. 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 halfcuts, 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.