CARRIER FOR CONTAINERS

Abstract

A carrier for holding a plurality of containers includes an upper web, the upper web including a central panel at least partially defining a plurality of container retention openings for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers, a lower web, the lower web including a central panel at least partially defining a plurality of container retention openings for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers, the plurality of container retention openings of the upper web aligned with the plurality of container retention openings of the lower web, and reinforcement features including at least one reinforcement panel foldably connected to one of the central panel of the upper web or the central panel of the lower web, the at least one reinforcement panel positioned between the central panel of the upper web and the central panel of the lower web.

Claims

1. A carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the carrier comprising: an upper web, the upper web comprising: a central panel at least partially defining a plurality of container retention openings for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers; a lower web, the lower web comprising: a central panel at least partially defining a plurality of container retention openings for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers, the plurality of container retention openings of the upper web aligned with the plurality of container retention openings of the lower web; and reinforcement features comprising at least one reinforcement panel foldably connected to one of the central panel of the upper web or the central panel of the lower web, the at least one reinforcement panel positioned between the central panel of the upper web and the central panel of the lower web.

2. The carrier of claim 1, wherein the at least one reinforcement panel is in at least partial face-to-face contact with the one of the central panel of the upper web or the central panel of the lower web.

3. The carrier of claim 2, wherein the at least one reinforcement panel is in at least partial face-to-face contact with the other of the central panel of the upper web or the central panel of the lower web.

4. The carrier of claim 2, wherein the upper web comprises a plurality of container retention tabs foldably connected to the central panel of the upper web and positioned extending into a respective container retention opening of the upper web.

5. The carrier of claim 4, wherein the lower web comprises a plurality of container retention tabs foldably connected to the central panel of the lower web and positioned extending into a respective container retention opening of the lower web.

6. The carrier of claim 5, wherein the plurality of container retention tabs of the upper web are aligned with the plurality of container retention tabs of the lower web.

7. A combination of blanks for forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the combination of blanks comprising: an upper blank for forming an upper web of the carrier, the upper blank comprising: a central panel at least partially defining a plurality of container retention openings for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers; a lower blank for forming a lower web of the carrier, the lower blank comprising: a central panel at least partially defining a plurality of container retention openings for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers, the plurality of container retention openings of the upper web aligned with the plurality of container retention openings of the lower web; and reinforcement features comprising at least one reinforcement panel foldably connected to one of the central panel of the upper web or the central panel of the lower web, the at least one reinforcement panel for being positioned between the central panel of the upper blank and the central panel of the lower blank when the carrier is formed from the combination of blanks.

8. The combination of blanks of claim 7, wherein the at least one reinforcement panel is for being positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the one of the central panel of the upper web or the central panel of the lower web when the carrier is formed from the combination of blanks.

9. The combination of blanks of claim 8, wherein the at least one reinforcement panel is for being positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the other of the central panel of the upper web or the central panel of the lower web when the carrier is formed from the combination of blanks.

10. The combination of blanks of claim 8, wherein the upper blank comprises a plurality of container retention tabs foldably connected to the central panel of the upper blank and positioned extending into a respective container retention opening of the upper blank.

11. The combination of blanks of claim 10, wherein the lower blank comprises a plurality of container retention tabs foldably connected to the central panel of the lower blank and positioned extending into a respective container retention opening of the lower blank.

12. The combination of blanks of claim 11, wherein the plurality of container retention tabs of the upper blank are for being aligned with the plurality of container retention tabs of the lower blank when the carrier is formed from the combination of blanks.

13. A method of forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the method comprising: obtaining an upper blank, the upper blank comprising a central panel at least partially defining a plurality of container retention openings for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers; obtaining a lower blank, the lower blank comprising a central panel at least partially defining a plurality of container retention openings for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers, at least one reinforcement panel foldably connected to one of the central panel of the upper blank or the central panel of the lower blank; forming an upper web from the upper blank; forming a lower web from the lower blank; aligning the plurality of container retention openings of the upper web with the plurality of container retention openings of the lower web; and positioning the at least one reinforcement panel between the central panel of the upper blank and the central panel of the lower blank.

14. The method of claim 13, wherein the at least one reinforcement panel is in at least partial face-to-face contact with the one of the central panel of the upper web or the central panel of the lower web.

15. The method of claim 14, wherein the at least one reinforcement panel is in at least partial face-to-face contact with the other of the central panel of the upper web or the central panel of the lower web.

16. The method of claim 14, wherein the upper blank comprises a plurality of container retention tabs foldably connected to the central panel of the upper blank and positioned extending into a respective container retention opening of the upper blank.

17. The method of claim 16, wherein the lower blank comprises a plurality of container retention tabs foldably connected to the central panel of the lower blank and positioned extending into a respective container retention opening of the lower blank.

18. The method of claim 17, further comprising positioning the plurality of container retention tabs of the upper web in alignment with the plurality of container retention tabs of the lower web.

19. A package, the package comprising: a plurality of containers; a carrier holding the plurality of containers, the carrier comprising: an upper web, the upper web comprising: a central panel at least partially defining a plurality of container retention openings at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers; a lower web, the lower web comprising: a central panel at least partially defining a plurality of container retention openings at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers, the plurality of container retention openings of the upper web aligned with the plurality of container retention openings of the lower web; and reinforcement features comprising at least one reinforcement panel foldably connected to one of the central panel of the upper web or the central panel of the lower web, the at least one reinforcement panel positioned between the central panel of the upper web and the central panel of the lower web.

20. The package of claim 19, wherein the at least one reinforcement panel is in at least partial face-to-face contact with the one of the central panel of the upper web or the central panel of the lower web.

21. The package of claim 20, wherein the at least one reinforcement panel is in at least partial face-to-face contact with the other of the central panel of the upper web or the central panel of the lower web.

22. The package of claim 20, wherein the upper web comprises a plurality of container retention tabs foldably connected to the central panel of the upper web and positioned extending into a respective container retention opening of the upper web.

23. The package of claim 22, wherein the lower web comprises a plurality of container retention tabs foldably connected to the central panel of the lower web and positioned extending into a respective container retention opening of the lower web.

24. The package of claim 23, wherein the plurality of container retention tabs of the upper web are aligned with the plurality of container retention tabs of the lower web.

25. A pre-breaking assembly for a carrier for containers, the pre-breaking assembly comprising: an upper apparatus, the upper apparatus comprising: a body at least partially defining a plurality of apertures for at least partially receiving a portion of the carrier; and a lower apparatus, the lower apparatus comprising: a body and a plurality of forming members extending upwardly from the body of the lower apparatus, the upper apparatus and the lower apparatus movable relative to one another to position the plurality of forming members of the lower apparatus for engaging a respective portion of the carrier and for being at least partially received in a respective aperture of the plurality of apertures of the upper apparatus.

26. The pre-breaking assembly of claim 25, wherein the body of the upper apparatus comprises a plate at least partially defining the plurality of apertures.

27. The pre-breaking assembly of claim 26, wherein the body of the lower apparatus comprises a sidewall and a bottom wall extending at least partially around an interior, the plurality of forming members extending upwardly from the bottom wall.

28. The pre-breaking assembly of claim 27, wherein the at least one forming member of the plurality of forming members comprises a lower portion and a tapered upper portion.

29. The pre-breaking assembly of claim 28, wherein the lower portion of the at least one forming member of the plurality of forming members has a generally circular profile.

30. The pre-breaking assembly of claim 28, wherein the lower portion of the at least one forming member of the plurality of forming members has a generally polygonal profile.

31. The pre-breaking assembly of claim 25, wherein the body of the upper apparatus at least partially forms a wheel rotatably supported on a machine frame and at least partially defining the plurality of apertures.

32. The pre-breaking assembly of claim 31, wherein the plurality of apertures comprise a respective recess in the wheel.

33. The pre-breaking assembly of claim 32, wherein the body of the lower apparatus at least partially forms a wheel rotatably supported on a machine frame, the plurality of forming members extending radially outwardly from the wheel of the lower apparatus.

34. The pre-breaking assembly of claim 33, wherein at least one forming member of the plurality of forming members comprises a tapered sidewall.

35. A method of pre-breaking a carrier for containers, the method comprising: obtaining an upper apparatus, the upper apparatus comprising a body at least partially defining a plurality of apertures; obtaining a lower apparatus, the lower apparatus comprising a body and a plurality of forming members extending upwardly from the body of the lower apparatus; and arranging the upper apparatus and the lower apparatus in movable relation to position the plurality of forming members of the lower apparatus for engaging a respective portion of the carrier and for being at least partially received in a respective aperture of the plurality of apertures of the upper apparatus.

36. The method of claim 35, wherein the body of the upper apparatus comprises a plate at least partially defining the plurality of apertures.

37. The method of claim 36, wherein the body of the lower apparatus comprises a sidewall and a bottom wall extending at least partially around an interior, the plurality of forming members extending upwardly from the bottom wall.

38. The method of claim 37, wherein the at least one forming member of the plurality of forming members comprises a lower portion and a tapered upper portion.

39. The method of claim 38, wherein the lower portion of the at least one forming member of the plurality of forming members has a generally circular profile.

40. The method of claim 38, wherein the lower portion of the at least one forming member of the plurality of forming members has a generally polygonal profile.

41. The method of claim 35, wherein the body of the upper apparatus at least partially forms a wheel rotatably supported on a machine frame and at least partially defining the plurality of apertures.

42. The method of claim 41, wherein the plurality of apertures comprise a respective recess in the wheel.

43. The method of claim 42, wherein the body of the lower apparatus at least partially forms a wheel rotatably supported on a machine frame, the plurality of forming members extending radially outwardly from the wheel of the lower apparatus.

44. The method of claim 43, wherein at least one forming member of the plurality of forming members comprises a tapered sidewall.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0011] According to common practice, the various features of the drawings discussed below are not necessarily drawn to scale. Dimensions of various features and elements in the drawings may be expanded or reduced to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the disclosure.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a plan view of an exterior surface of an upper blank for at least partially forming a carrier according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 1A is an enlarged view of a portion of the blank of FIG. 1.

[0014] FIG. 1B is an enlarged view of another portion of the blank of FIG. 1.

[0015] FIG. 2 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a lower blank for at least partially forming a carrier according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 3 is an activated configuration of the blank of FIG. 2 forming a lower web of a carrier according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0017] FIG. 4 is a perspective view of a series of upper webs formed from blanks of the type of FIG. 1 assembled with a series of lower webs formed from blanks of the type of FIG. 2 forming a carrier according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an exemplary container for use with carriers according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 6 is a perspective view of a pre-breaking assembly for carriers prior to a pre-breaking operation according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0020] FIGS. 7-9 are sequential perspective views of a pre-breaking operation of a carrier with the pre-breaking assembly of FIG. 6 according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a pre-breaking assembly for a carrier prior to a pre-breaking operation according to an alternative exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0022] FIGS. 11-12 are sequential perspective views of a pre-breaking operation of a carrier with the pre-breaking assembly of FIG. 10 according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0023] FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a pre-breaking assembly for carriers according to another alternative exemplary embodiment of the disclosure and showing a pre-breaking of a carrier.

[0024] FIG. 14 is another perspective view of the pre-breaking assembly of FIG. 13.

[0025] FIG. 15 is an enlarged perspective view of a portion of the pre-breaking assembly of FIG. 13.

[0026] FIG. 16 is a plan view of an exterior surface of an upper blank for at least partially forming a carrier according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0027] FIG. 16A is an enlarged view of a portion of the blank of FIG. 16.

[0028] FIG. 16B is an enlarged view of another portion of the blank of FIG. 16.

[0029] FIG. 17 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a lower blank for at least partially forming a carrier according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0030] FIG. 18 is an assembly view of a top web and a bottom web of a carrier formed from the blanks of FIGS. 16 and 17.

[0031] FIG. 19 is a perspective view of a carrier formed from the blanks of FIGS. 16 and 17 according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0032] Corresponding parts are designated by corresponding reference numbers throughout the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] The present disclosure generally relates to carriers, packages, constructs, sleeves, cartons, or the like, for holding and displaying containers such as jars, bottles, cans, etc. The containers can be used for packaging food and beverage products, for example. The containers can be made from materials suitable in composition for packaging the particular food or beverage item, and the materials include, but are not limited to, glass; plastics such as PET, LDPE, LLDPE, HDPE, PP, PS, PVC, EVOH, and Nylon; and the like; aluminum and/or other metals; or any combination thereof.

[0034] Carriers and packages according to the present disclosure can accommodate containers of numerous different shapes. For the purpose of illustration and not for the purpose of limiting the scope of the disclosure, the following detailed description describes beverage containers (e.g., generally cylindrical containers such as aluminum cans) at least partially disposed within the package embodiments. In this specification, the terms lower, bottom, upper and top indicate orientations determined in relation to fully erected carriers and packages.

[0035] In some embodiments, carriers and packages described herein can be configured to receive containers in the form of beverage cans. With momentary reference to FIG. 5, such containers C can have a lower base portion B, a top portion T generally comprising a neck N that tapers inwardly from the lower base portion B, a flange F at the top of the neck portion N that extends radially outward from the neck portion, and a top surface TS below the flange F that includes a pull-tab P. In some embodiments, the flange F can have the form of a rolled rim or chime for being engaged by one or more portions of the carrier/package, as described further herein.

[0036] FIG. 1 is a plan view of an exterior surface 101 of a blank 103 for at least partially forming a carrier 105 according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. In some embodiments, the blank 103 can be for forming an upper web and/or a lower web of the carrier 105. FIGS. 1A and 1B are detail views of portions of the blank 103. It will be understood that the carrier 105 can be provided with one or more containers C as a package.

[0037] As shown, the blank 103 has a longitudinal axis L1 and a lateral axis L2. The blank 103 comprises an attachment panel or central panel 121 that includes container retention features for engaging containers C when the carrier 105 is formed from the blank 103, as described further herein.

[0038] In the illustrated embodiment, the container retention features can include a plurality of container retention openings 123 at least partially defined by the central panel 121 and for at least partially receiving respective containers C of the plurality of containers C when the carrier 105/package is formed from the blank 103. The central panel 121 can at least partially define container retention openings 123 proximate the corners thereof, as shown, though a different number of container retention openings 123 can be provided to accommodate a different number and/or arrangement of containers C.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 1A, each container retention opening 123, as shown, can have a plurality of container retention tabs 125 extending at least partially thereinto and foldably connected to the central panel 121 at respective curved fold lines 127. Adjacent container retention tabs 125 can be at least partially separable from one another at a respective cut. In the illustrated embodiment, respective pairs of container retention tabs 125 can be positioned at approximately 90 degree offsets relative to one another proximate respective free edges of the central panel 121.

[0040] Respective container retention tabs 129 can be foldably connected to the central panel 121 at respective oblique fold lines 131 and positioned extending into the container openings 123, a container retention tab 133 can be positioned extending into the container retention openings 123 and can be foldably connected to the central panel 121 at a curved fold line 135, a container retention tab 137 can be positioned extending into the container retention opening 123 and can be foldably connected to the central panel 121 at a respective longitudinal fold line 139, and a container retention tab 141 can be positioned extending into the container retention opening 123 and can be foldably connected to the central panel 121 at a respective lateral fold line 143.

[0041] Respective adjacent container retention tabs 125, 129, 133, 137, 141 can be at least partially separated from one another at a respective line of weakening that can include one or more of linear cuts, curved cuts, relief cuts, etc.

[0042] In some configurations of the blank 103, the container retention openings 123 can be at least partially obscured by a reinforcement panel 145 at least partially separably and/or at least partially foldably connected to the respective container retention tabs 125, 129, 133, 137, 141 at a line of weakening that is generally defined by the free edges thereof that are exposed to portions of the respective openings 123 positioned extending radially inwardly therefrom. In some embodiments, the reinforcement panels 145 can be provided with one or more lines of weakening extending at least partially thereacross.

[0043] Container retention openings 147 can also be longitudinally positioned between the respective container retention openings 123. As shown in FIG. 1B, opposed pairs of container retention tabs 133, 137, 141 and associated features can be provided extending into the container retention openings 147.

[0044] In some configurations of the blank 103, the container retention openings 147 can be at least partially obscured by a reinforcement panel 149 at least partially separably and/or at least partially foldably connected to the respective container retention tabs 129, 137, 141 at a line of weakening that is generally defined by the free edges thereof that are exposed to portions of the respective openings 147 positioned extending radially inwardly therefrom. In some embodiments, the reinforcement panels 149 can be provided with one or more lines of weakening extending at least partially thereacross.

[0045] The blank 103 and carrier 105 at least partially formed therefrom can also include handle features that include a plurality of handle tabs 151 foldably connected to the central panel 121 at respective fold lines 153 and at least partially separable therefrom at respective curved cuts 155. As shown, adjacent handle tabs 151 can be at least partially separable from another at respective longitudinal cuts 157.

[0046] Turning to FIG. 2, a plan view of an exterior surface 201 of a blank 203 for at least partially forming the carrier 105 according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. In some embodiments, the blank 203 can be for forming an upper web and/or a lower web of the carrier 105.

[0047] As shown, the blank 203 can have one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the blank 103, and like or similar reference features are designated with like or similar reference numerals.

[0048] As shown, the blank 203 can have the longitudinal axis L1, the lateral axis L2, the central panel 121, the container retention openings 123, 147, and associated features.

[0049] However, and as shown, the blank 203 and carrier 105 at least partially formed therefrom can include at least one reinforcement panel 245 at least partially obscuring a respective container retention opening 123. In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcement panel 245 can be generally similar to the reinforcement panel 145 described above, except that the reinforcement panel 245 can be foldably connected to a respective container retention tab 133 at respective oblique fold lines 247.

[0050] In addition, the at least one reinforcement panel 245 can include a handle opening 248 at least partially defined by an edge of the at least one reinforcement panel 245 that generally corresponds to an outline of a respective pair of the handle tabs 151.

[0051] Similarly, the blank 203 and carrier 105 at least partially formed therefrom can include at least one reinforcement panel 249 at least partially obscuring a respective container retention opening 147, with the at least one reinforcement panel 249 generally similar to the at least one reinforcement panel 149 described above. However, the at least one reinforcement panel 249 can be foldably connected to a respective container retention tab 133 at respective oblique fold lines 247 and can at least partially define a respective handle opening 248.

[0052] While the blank 203 is shown provided with a single reinforcement panel 245 and a single reinforcement panel 249, it will be understood that a different arrangement of reinforcement panels can be provided without departing from the disclosure.

[0053] With additional reference to FIGS. 3 and 4, activation of the reinforcement panels 245, 249 of the blank 203 is illustrated, in which the reinforcement panels 245, 249 are folded at the respective fold lines 247 into at least partial face-to-face contact with the central panel 121.

[0054] As shown, the respective reinforcement panels 245, 249 can be positioned overlying a portion of the central panel 121 between a series of four adjacent container retention openings, and such that the respective handle opening 248 is generally aligned so as to at least partially circumscribe respective pairs of the handle tabs 151.

[0055] In this regard, the reinforcement panels 245, 249 can be positioned at least partially overlying respective portions of the central panel 121 so as to provide a multi-ply, e.g., two-ply, structure at least partially therealong. In addition, the handle openings 248 in the reinforcement panels 245, 249 is such that movement of the handle tabs 151 therethrough upon activation by a user is generally unhindered, as described further below.

[0056] With additional reference to FIG. 4, according to one embodiment, one or more of the reinforcement panels 145, 149 of the blank 103 can be at least partially separated from the central panel 121 of the blank 103 to form an upper web 107 of the carrier 105, and the reinforcement panels 245, 249 can be folded at the respective fold lines 247 into at least partial face-to-face contact with the central panel 121 to form a lower web 109 of the carrier 105.

[0057] In the illustrated embodiment, the upper web 107 can be positioned with the exterior surface of the central panel 121 facing upwardly, and the lower web 109 can be positioned in an inverted orientation in which the exterior surface of the central panel 121 thereof can be positioned facing downwardly, e.g., such that the exterior surface of the reinforcement panels 245, 249 can be positioned facing the interior surface of the upper web 107.

[0058] The upper web 107, 109 can be brought into an at least partially overlapping relationship, e.g., along a machine path M in which one or more machine components can position the upper web 107 and the lower web 109 in at least partial face-to-face relation.

[0059] As shown, the carrier 105 can thus be formed as a laminate of the upper web 107 and the lower web 109, which can be at least partially maintained via one or more applications of an adhesive such as glue, and such that the carrier 105 can be an assembly of an upper web and a lower web.

[0060] In such an arrangement, at least a portion of the carrier 105 can have a triple-ply arrangement formed by a portion of the central panel 121 of the upper web 107, a respective reinforcement panel 245, 249, and the central panel 121 of the lower web 109. Such a robust laminate structure of multiple layers of material can provide enhanced strength, resistance to tear or other deformation, etc., as compared to, for example, a carrier that includes a single ply of material. In some embodiments, the carrier 105 and/or one of the upper web 107 and the lower web 109 can have a thickness between about 12 point and about 16 point, for example, about 14 point.

[0061] With additional reference to FIG. 5, in use, in some embodiments, the carrier 105 can be lowered onto a plurality of containers C such that at least the top portion of a respective container C (including, but not limited to, the top surface TS and pull tab P, the flange F, and at least a portion of the neck portion N) can be at least partially received through a respective container openings 123, 147 of the central panel 121 of the upper web 107 and the lower web 109, which are aligned upon formation of the carrier 105.

[0062] Upon engagement of the flange portion of a respective container C with the respective container retention tabs associated with a respective container opening 123, 147 the flange portion can at least partially cause the respective container retention tabs 125, 129, 133, 137, 141 to fold at least partially upwardly relative to the respective central panel 121/remainder thereof at the respective fold lines 127, 131, 135, 139, 143.

[0063] In such an arrangement, the respective container retention tabs 125, 129, 133, 137, 141 can extend at least partially upwardly from the respective central panel 121 to the respective flange F of a respective container C. In some embodiments, the respective container retention tabs 125, 129, 133, 137, 141 can extend obliquely from the respective central panel 121 to the respective flange F to contact a lower surface or edge thereof in a bracing relationship. In some embodiments, one or more of the container retention tabs 125, 129, 133, 137, 141 can be arranged so as to at least partially contour about the curvature of a respective neck portion of a respective container.

[0064] Such engagement of the carrier 105 with one or more containers C can also include at least partial reconfiguration thereof, for example, via relative movement of one or more portions of the carrier 105 relative to the remainder thereof. In some embodiments, one or both of the central panels 121 can be provided with one or more lines of weakening along a portion thereof, e.g., between respective container retention features, to facilitate such reconfiguration of the carrier 105.

[0065] It will be understood that the carrier 105 can be formed from a different arrangement of an upper web and a lower web. For example, in some embodiments, the blank 103 can form both an upper web and a lower web, and can be laminated to form the carrier 105. As another example, the blank 203 can form both the upper web and the lower web of the carrier 105. As yet another example, the blank 203 can form the upper web and the blank 103 can form the lower web of the carrier 105.

[0066] Furthermore, it will be understood that a different configuration of reinforcing features can be provided between a central panel of an upper web and a lower web to form a carrier. In some embodiments, other structures can provide reinforcement between an upper web and a lower web of a carrier, e.g., reinforcement panels 145, 149 or portions thereof, excess material from blanks/webs separate from an upper web and a lower web, etc.

[0067] Turning to FIG. 6, a pre-breaking assembly 205 for cooperating with the carrier 105 is illustrated according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0068] When the carrier 105 described above is formed, the container retention tabs 125, 129, 133, 137, 141 of the upper web 107 can be aligned with the respective container retention tabs 125, 129, 133, 137, 141 of the lower web 109. Such an at least partially overlapping arrangement of respective container retention tabs 125, 129, 133, 137, 141 can require an increased amount of force to at least partially urge the respective aligned container retention tabs 125, 129, 133, 137, 141 upwardly via folding at the respective aligned fold lines 127, 131, 135, 139, 143, for example, due to the two-, or, in some instances, three- or four-ply arrangement thereof, due to a reduction of tolerance between the carrier 105 and the respective container, etc.

[0069] Accordingly, it may be desirable to pre-break, or at least partially start the action of folding the respective aligned container retention tabs 125, 129, 133, 137, 141 upwardly relative to the remainder of the carrier 105 at the respective aligned fold lines 127, 131, 135, 139, 143 prior to the at least partial receipt of a container C through the respective container openings 123, 147 in the manner described above. In some embodiments, pre-breaking the respective container retention tabs can include at least partial separation of a respective container retention tab from a respective adjacent container retention tab and/or portion of the central panel 121. Such pre-breaking of the respective aligned container retention tabs 125, 129, 133, 137, 141 can facilitate the smooth, consistent attachment of carriers 105 to containers C to form packages.

[0070] In some embodiments, such pre-breaking of the respective aligned container retention tabs 125, 129, 133, 137, 141 of the carrier 105 can minimize, inhibit, prevent, and/or otherwise avoid excessive forces associated with attaching the carrier 105 to containers C that could cause unwanted tearing or other damage of the carrier 105.

[0071] Accordingly, and with additional reference to FIGS. 7-9, the pre-breaking assembly 205 can include a pressing apparatus 207 for being engaged with a forming apparatus 209. As described herein, the pressing apparatus 207 can be an upper apparatus of the pre-breaking assembly 205 that can be raised and lowered toward the lower apparatus or forming apparatus 209. The carrier 105 can be at least partially received in a portion of the forming apparatus 209 or can otherwise be positioned between the pressing apparatus 207 and the forming apparatus 209 such that the respective aligned container retention tabs 125, 129, 133, 137, 141 can be pre-broken.

[0072] As shown, the pressing apparatus 207 can have a body that includes a lower plate 211 at least partially defining an array of apertures 213 arranged therealong, and corresponding to an array of features on the forming apparatus 207, as described further herein. Furthermore, the array of apertures 213 can be such that the apertures 213 generally correspond to an arrangement of the aligned container openings 123, 147 of the carrier 105.

[0073] The pressing apparatus 207 can further defined a handle 215 attached to or otherwise extending upwardly from the plate 211. The handle 215 can have a generally U-shaped or bracketed configuration such that sufficient clearance is provided between the handle 215 and the plate 211 for a user or machine component to grasp portions of the handle 215 to move the pressing apparatus 207.

[0074] In some embodiments, the pressing apparatus 207 can be formed of a unitary body, for example, in the case of an injection-molded plastic. In other embodiments, the pressing apparatus 207 can be formed of multiple attached components.

[0075] The forming apparatus 209, as shown, can include a sidewall 217 extending at least partially around an interior 219 of the forming apparatus 209. In the illustrated embodiment, the sidewall 217 can include one or more discontinuities therealong. The forming apparatus 209 can also include a bottom wall 221 abutting one or more portions of the sidewall 217. As shown, the bottom wall 221 can extend between opposed portions of the sidewall 217 so as to provide an at least partially closed bottom arrangement of the forming apparatus 209.

[0076] Still referring to FIGS. 6-9, a plurality of forming members 223 can be provided in an arrangement similar to that described above with respect to the apertures 213 in the pressing assembly 207 and the container openings 123, 147 in the carrier 105.

[0077] As shown, the forming members 223 can be upstanding members extending upwardly from the bottom wall 221 of the forming apparatus 209 and at least partially positioned in the interior 219 thereof. Each forming member 223, as shown, can have a respective body at least partially defining a respective generally circular lower portion 227 and an generally curving and tapered upper portion 229, e.g., a conic section, extending from the respective lower portion 227 to a respective flap top end 231. It will be understood that the forming members 223 can have a different configuration, as described further herein.

[0078] In the illustrated embodiment, the forming apparatus 209 of the pre-breaking assembly 205 is arranged such that a carrier 105 can be at least partially received in the interior 219 thereof. As shown, the carrier 105 can be positioned such that the respective top end 231 and respective tapering portion 229 of the respective forming members 223 can be at least partially received through the respective aligned container openings 123, 147 of the carrier 105. In this regard, the carrier 105 can rest atop the plurality of forming members 223.

[0079] In order to pre-break the respective aligned container retention tabs 125, 129, 133, 137, 141 of the carrier 105, the carrier 105 can be positioned in the forming apparatus 209 and the pressing apparatus 207 can be lowered downwardly at least partially into the interior 219 of the forming apparatus 209. Such movement can be accomplished, in some embodiments, via engagement of the handle 215 by a user or machine element.

[0080] As the pressing apparatus 207 reaches the forming apparatus 209, the plate 211 of the pressing apparatus 207 can contact the outer surface of the upper web 107 of the carrier 105 to press the carrier 105 further downwardly into the interior 219 of the forming apparatus 209.

[0081] As the carrier 105 is pressed downwardly, increasingly wider portions of the respective tapering portions 229 of the forming members 223 can contact and cause the respective aligned container retention tabs 125, 129, 133, 137, 141 to fold at least partially upwardly at the respective aligned fold lines 127, 131, 135, 139, 143, e.g., to pre-break the respective aligned container retention tabs 125, 129, 133, 137, 141.

[0082] It will be understood that, in some embodiments, a desired amount of pre-breaking of the container retention tabs can correspond to a depth within the interior 219 of the forming apparatus 209 the carrier 105 is pressed by the pressing apparatus 207, for example, such that a maximum amount of pre-breaking thereof can occur as the respective lower portions 227 of the forming members 223 contacts the respective container retention tabs. In some embodiments, a shape and/or size of one or more of the forming members 223 can be preselected to correspond to a desired amount of pre-breaking of the container retention tabs.

[0083] It will be understood that the pre-breaking assembly 205 can be configured to cooperate with the carrier 105 or a portion thereof, e.g., the top web 107 and/or the bottom web 109 prior to assembly thereof. In some embodiments, a pre-breaking assembly 205 can be configured to cooperate with a carrier of a different configuration.

[0084] For example, with reference to FIGS. 10-12, a pre-breaking assembly 205A according to an alternative exemplary embodiment of the disclosure can have a configuration generally similar to that of the pre-breaking assembly 205, with exceptions noted herein. Accordingly, like or similar components between the pre-breaking assembly 205 and the pre-breaking assembly 205A can be designated with like or similar reference numerals.

[0085] In this regard, the pre-breaking assembly 205A can have a pressing apparatus 207A and a forming apparatus 209A.

[0086] The pressing apparatus 207A can be generally similar to the pressing apparatus 207 described above, except that the plate 211 at least partially defines apertures 213A having an at least partially polygonal profile, e.g., a generally octagonal profile, as compared to the generally circular apertures 213 of the pressing apparatus 207.

[0087] Further, the forming apparatus 209A can have a configuration generally similar to that described above with respect to the forming apparatus 209, except that the forming apparatus 209A can include forming members 223A having a respective body at least partially defining a respective generally polygonal, e.g., generally octagonal, lower portion 227A and respective polygonal/octagonal tapering upper portion 229A, extending from the respective lower portion 227A to the respective flap top end 231. In some embodiments, the generally polygonal/octagonal profile of the forming members 223A can be at least partially defined by one or more ribs or protrusions extending outwardly from a remainder thereof.

[0088] In this regard, the pre-breaking assembly 205A can have advantages and functionality similar to that described above with respect to the pre-breaking assembly 205. In some embodiments, the pre-breaking assembly 205A can be configured to provide a different amount and/or arrangement of pre-breaking with respect to the container retention tabs of the carrier 105. In some embodiments, the pre-breaking assembly 205A can be configured to cooperate with a carrier having a different configuration than the carrier 105.

[0089] Turning to FIGS. 13-15, a pre-breaking assembly 305 according to another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure is illustrated. As shown, the pre-breaking assembly 305 can include a machine frame F, e.g., an assembly of legs, arms, struts, bars, ties, other supports, etc., fastened or otherwise coupled to one another for supporting the remainder of the pre-breaking assembly 305.

[0090] The pre-breaking assembly 305, as shown, can include a pressing wheel 307 (broadly, pressing apparatus or upper apparatus) rotatably supported on the machine frame F, and a forming wheel 309 (broadly, forming apparatus or lower apparatus) rotatably supported on the machine frame F.

[0091] In the illustrated embodiment, the pressing wheel 307 and the forming wheel 309 can be rotatably supported on the machine frame F along generally parallel and vertically spaced axes, and can be arranged in proximity relative to one another such that a preselected gap or clearance therebetween is provided. In some embodiments, such clearance can correspond to the thickness of a carrier 105. In this regard, in some embodiments, the wheels 307, 309 can be arranged for receiving a carrier 105 therebetween such that at least a portion of the carrier 105 can extend along a path tangent to each of the outer surfaces of the wheels 307, 309.

[0092] The pre-breaking assembly 305 can also include a blank infeed assembly or carrier infeed assembly 311 for at least partially supporting the carrier 105 and guiding the carrier 105 to a location between the wheels 307, 309. Accordingly, the carrier infeed assembly 311 can include guide rails, bedplates, conveyors, or other supporting structure for directing a path of the carrier 105 between the wheels 307, 309. In some embodiments, the carrier infeed assembly 311 can include one or more motor actuated components, e.g., chains, moving lugs, slats, belts, etc., and/or the carrier infeed assembly 311 can be configured for slidably receiving the carrier 105 therealong.

[0093] In the illustrated embodiment, one or more nip rollers 312 can be positioned adjacent a path along which the carrier 105 can travel along the carrier infeed assembly 311, for example, so as to provide controlled movement thereof, to further guide the carrier 105 along such path, to flatten or otherwise position the carrier 105 for further processing, etc.

[0094] As shown best in FIG. 14, the pressing wheel 307 can have a generally circular disc or drum-shaped body 313 along which a plurality of forming cavities 315 (broadly, apertures) are at least partially defined. In the illustrated embodiment, the forming cavities 315 can be recessed portions of the body 313 of the pressing wheel 307 that each include a sloped or tapered sidewall or side 317 extending to a generally flat end 319. The sides 317 can be generally circular in profile, e.g., so as to have the form of a conic section, or can have one or more asymmetries, for example, so as to be at least partially elliptical.

[0095] The forming cavities 315 can be arranged in circumferentially spaced pairs about the body 313 of the pressing wheel 307 so as to be rotatably alignable with the respective container openings 123, 147 of the carrier 105, in succession, as the carrier 105 is advanced between the wheels 307, 309 and as the wheels 307, 309 are driven to rotate, as described further herein. It will be understood that the forming cavities 315 can be provided in a different arrangement on the pressing wheel 307 without departing from the disclosure.

[0096] With continued reference to FIGS. 16-19, the forming wheel 309 can have a generally circular disc or drum-shaped body 320 along which a plurality of forming members 321 are arranged extending radially outwardly. In the illustrated embodiment, the forming members 321 can each include a sloped or tapered sidewall or side 323 extending to a generally flat top end 325. The sides 323 can be generally circular in profile, e.g., so as to have the form of a conic section, or can have one or more asymmetries, for example, so as to be at least partially elliptical.

[0097] In the illustrated embodiment, the forming members 321 can be protruding portions of the body 320 of the forming wheel 309, however, in some embodiments, one or more of the forming members 321 can be a separate piece coupled to the body 320 of the wheel 309.

[0098] Similar to the cavities 315 of the pressing wheel 307, the forming members 321 can be arranged in circumferentially spaced pairs about the body 320 of the forming wheel 309 so as to be rotatably alignable with the respective container openings 123, 147 of the carrier 105, as well as the cavities 315 of the pressing wheel 307, in succession, as the carrier 105 is advanced between the wheels 307, 309 and as the wheels 307, 309 are driven to rotate, as described further herein. It will be understood that the forming members 315 can be provided in a different arrangement on the forming wheel 309 without departing from the disclosure.

[0099] According to some exemplary embodiments, a carrier 105 can be positioned on the carrier infeed assembly 311 and advanced, for example, manually or via an actuator such as a crank, motorized conveyor, etc., in the direction indicated by the arrow A1 between the pressing wheel 307 and the forming wheel 309. In some embodiments, the carrier 105 can pass beneath the nip roller 312/between a pair of nip rollers 312 to facilitate such movement in the direction of the arrow A1.

[0100] The pressing wheel 307 and the forming wheel 309 can be rotated relative to the machine frame F, for example, in the direction of the arrows A2, A3, such that a point along the respective surfaces of the bodies 313, 320 of the respective wheels 307, 309 that intersects a common tangent thereof, e.g., a line along the arrow A1, can move in the direction of the arrow A1. In this regard, the wheels 307, 309 can be rotated in opposite rotational directions.

[0101] It will be understood that the respective wheels 307, 309 can be rotated, for example, with one or more transmissions that include belts, chains, linkages, gearings, etc. In this regard, the motion of the respective wheels 307, 309 can by synchronized, for example, via a mechanical arrangement of such transmission, under the influence of a processor-driven controller configured to provide timing between the rotation of the wheels 307, 309, etc.

[0102] As described above, the cavities 315 can be arranged about the pressing wheel 307 and the forming members 321 can be arranged about the forming wheel 309 such that respective cavities 315 are positioned to align and at least partially receive respective forming members 321, e.g., at a location corresponding to a lowermost or proximate a lowermost point of the pressing wheel 307 and at an uppermost location or proximate an uppermost location of the forming wheel 309.

[0103] At such location(s), the carrier 105 can be positioned therebetween such that the respective forming member 321 can contact and cause the respective aligned container retention tabs 125, 129, 133, 137, 141 to fold at least partially upwardly at the respective aligned fold lines 127, 131, 135, 139, 143 into the respective cavity 315, e.g., to pre-break the respective aligned container retention tabs 125, 129, 133, 137, 141. Such engagement of the respective forming members 321 and respective cavities 315 can be such that the body 313 of the pressing wheel 307 can at least partially contact the outer surface of the upper web 107 of the carrier 105 maintain a generally flat, taught, etc., configuration of the carrier 305 while the container retention tabs 125, 129, 133, 137, 141 are pre-broken in the manner described above.

[0104] It will be understood that the wheels 307, 309 of the pre-breaking assembly 305 can be driven by one or more motors or other prime movers, manually, e.g., with an actuator wheel, crank, or level, etc., or by another method of imparting rotational motion.

[0105] The pre-breaking assembly 305 can thus be operable to provide pre-breaking of the respective aligned container retention tabs 125, 129, 133, 137, 141 of the carrier 105 to provide advantages similar to that describe above with respect to the pre-breaking assemblies 205, 205A, 305. It will be understood that the pre-breaking assembly 305 can be configured to provide pre-breaking to a carrier with a different configuration without departing from the disclosure.

[0106] It will be understood that one or more portions of the pre-breaking assembly 305 can have a different configuration without departing from the disclosure.

[0107] FIG. 16 is a plan view of an exterior surface 401 of a blank 403 for at least partially forming a carrier 405 (FIG. 19) according to another exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. In some embodiments, the blank 403 can be for forming an upper web 406 (FIG. 18) of the carrier 405. FIGS. 16A and 16B are detail views of portions of the blank 403. It will be understood that the carrier 405 can be provided with one or more containers C as a package.

[0108] As shown, the blank 403 has a longitudinal axis L1 and a lateral axis L2. The blank 403 comprises an attachment panel or central panel 421 that includes container retention features for engaging containers C when the carrier 405 is formed from the blank 403, as described further herein.

[0109] In the illustrated embodiment, the container retention features can include a plurality of container retention openings 123 at least partially defined by the central panel 421 proximate the corners and for at least partially receiving respective containers C of the plurality of containers C when the carrier 405/package is at least partially formed from the blank 403. Furthermore, the central panel 421 can at least partially define container retention openings 147 longitudinally between container retention openings 123. In the illustrated embodiment, the blank 403 can include two rows of four columns of container retention openings 123 for receiving a corresponding number of containers C, e.g., eight containers C, though a different number of container retention openings 123 can be provided to accommodate a different number and/or arrangement of containers C.

[0110] As shown in FIG. 16A, each container retention opening 123, as shown, can have a plurality of container retention tabs 125 extending at least partially thereinto and foldably connected to the central panel 421 at respective curved fold lines 127. Adjacent container retention tabs 125 can be at least partially separable from one another at a respective cut. In the illustrated embodiment, respective pairs of container retention tabs 125 can be positioned at approximately 90 degree offsets relative to one another proximate respective free edges of the central panel 421.

[0111] Respective container retention tabs 129 can be foldably connected to the central panel 421 at respective oblique fold lines 131 and positioned extending into the container openings 123, a container retention tab 133 can be positioned extending into the container retention openings 123 and can be foldably connected to the central panel 421 at a curved fold line 135, a container retention tab 137 can be positioned extending into the container retention opening 123 and can be foldably connected to the central panel 421 at a respective longitudinal fold line 139, and a container retention tab 141 can be positioned extending into the container retention opening 123 and can be foldably connected to the central panel 421 at a respective lateral fold line 143.

[0112] Respective adjacent container retention tabs 125, 129, 133, 137, 141 can be at least partially separated from one another at a respective line of weakening that can include one or more of linear cuts, curved cuts, relief cuts, etc.

[0113] As shown in FIG. 16B, the container retention openings 147 longitudinally positioned between the respective container retention openings 123 can include opposed pairs of container retention tabs 129, 137, 141 and associated features can be provided extending into the container retention openings 147.

[0114] The blank 103 and carrier 105 at least partially formed therefrom can also include handle features that include a plurality of handle tabs 151 foldably connected to the central panel 121 at respective fold lines 153 and at least partially separable therefrom at respective curved cuts 155. As shown, adjacent handle tabs 151 can be at least partially separable from another at respective longitudinal cuts 157.

[0115] Turning to FIG. 17, a plan view of an exterior surface 501 of a blank 503 for at least partially forming the carrier 405 according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. In some embodiments, the blank 503 can be for forming a lower web 505 (FIG. 18) of the carrier 405.

[0116] As shown, the blank 503 can have one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the blank 403, and like or similar reference features are designated with like or similar reference numerals.

[0117] As shown, the blank 503 can have the longitudinal axis L1, the lateral axis L2, the central panel 421, the container retention openings 123, 147, and associated features.

[0118] However, and as shown, the blank 503 and carrier 405 at least partially formed therefrom can include at least one reinforcement panel 545 at least partially obscuring a respective container retention opening 147. In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcement panel 545 can be at least partially separably and/or at least partially foldably connected to the respective container retention tabs 125, 129, 133, 137, 141 at a line of weakening that is generally defined by the free edges thereof that are exposed to portions of the respective openings 123 positioned extending radially inwardly therefrom. In the illustrated embodiment, the reinforcement panels 545 can be foldably connected to a respective container retention tab 129 at a respective oblique line of weakening or oblique fold line 532. In some embodiments, the reinforcement panels 545 can be provided with one or more lines of weakening extending at least partially thereacross so as to at least partially define a container retention tab-like feature extending from the container retention tabs 125, 129, 133, 137, 141.

[0119] In addition, the reinforcement panels 545 can include the handle tabs 151 and associated features at least partially defined therein.

[0120] With continued reference to FIG. 17, at least one reinforcement panel 549 can be foldably connected to a respective container engagement tab 129 at a respective 532 and positioned extending into a respective container retention opening 123. The reinforcement panel(s) 549, as shown, can have a handle feature that can include a recess 550 or notch at least partially defined therein.

[0121] While the reinforcement panel(s) 549 may be panel portions as indicated in FIG. 21, it will be understood that the reinforcement panel(s) 549 can fully or mostly obscure a respective container retention opening 123 without departing from the disclosure.

[0122] With additional reference to FIG. 18, activation of the reinforcement panels 545, 549 of the blank 503 is illustrated, in which the reinforcement panels 545 are folded at the respective fold lines 532 into at least partial face-to-face contact with the central panel 421.

[0123] As shown, the respective reinforcement panels 545 can be positioned overlying a portion of the central panel 421 between a series of four adjacent container retention openings, and such that the respective handle tabs 151 and associated features of the reinforcement panels 545 can be generally aligned with the handle tabs 151 of the central panel 421.

[0124] In addition, the respective reinforcement panels 549 can be folded at the respective fold lines 532 into at least partial face-to-face contact with respective marginal portions of the central panel 421 between adjacent container openings 123 such that the recesses 550 are generally aligned with a corresponding recess on a lateral free edge of the blank 503.

[0125] In this regard, the reinforcement panels 545, 549 can be positioned at least partially overlying respective portions of the central panel 421 so as to provide a multi-ply, e.g., two-ply, structure at least partially therealong.

[0126] In some embodiments, serially attached blanks 503 can be provided along a machine path or other processing line and separated at a respective line of weakening such that individual blanks 503 can be separated and at least partially formed into a carrier 405.

[0127] In such embodiments, the reinforcement panels 549 can have the form of a panel in size similar to that of the reinforcement panels 545, but can be devoid of the handle tabs 151 and associated features. In this regard, folding of the reinforcement panels 549 at the respective fold lines 532 can be such that the reinforcement panels 549 of a leading blank 503 along a machine path can at least partially overlap the central panel 421 of a trailing blank 503 along the machine path.

[0128] In this regard, when successive blanks 503 along the machine path are separated at a respective line of weakening, a respective reinforcement panel 549 can be at least partially bisected such that a portion thereof remains on the leading blank 503, and such that a portion remains on the trailing blank 503 to which such portion of the reinforcement panel 549 is foldably connected, as shown in FIG. 18.

[0129] Upon such activation of the reinforcement panels 545, 549 of the blank 503, the blank 503 can form the lower web 505 of the carrier 405 for cooperating with an upper web 406 formed from the blank 403 to form the carrier 405.

[0130] In some embodiments, the upper web 406 can be positioned with the exterior surface of the central panel 421 facing upwardly, and the lower web 505 can be positioned with the exterior surface of the central panel 421 thereof facing upwardly such that the reinforcement panels 445, 449 can be positioned facing the interior surface of the upper web 406. In other embodiments, the webs 406, 505 can be assembled in different orientations.

[0131] The webs 406, 505 can be brought into an at least partially overlapping relationship, e.g., along a machine path in which one or more machine components can position the upper web 406 and the lower web 505 in at least partial face-to-face relation, in a manner similar to that described above with respect to the carrier 105.

[0132] Accordingly, the carrier 105 can thus be formed as a laminate of the upper web 406 and the lower web 505, which can be at least partially maintained via one or more applications of an adhesive such as glue, and such that the carrier 405 can be an assembly of an upper web and a lower web.

[0133] In such an arrangement, at least a portion of the carrier 405 can have a triple-ply arrangement formed by a portion of the central panel 421 of the upper web 406, a respective reinforcement panel 445, 449, and the central panel 421 of the lower web 505. Such a robust laminate structure of multiple layers of material can provide enhanced strength, resistance to tear or other deformation, etc., as compared to, for example, a carrier that includes a single ply of material. In some embodiments, the carrier 405 and/or one of the upper web 406 and the lower web 505 can have a thickness of about 14 point.

[0134] Upon engagement of the flange portion of a respective container C with the respective container retention tabs associated with a respective container opening 123, 147 the flange portion can at least partially cause the respective container retention tabs 125, 129, 133, 137, 141 to fold at least partially upwardly relative to the respective central panel 421/remainder thereof at the respective fold lines 127, 131, 135, 139, 143.

[0135] In such an arrangement, the respective container retention tabs 125, 129, 133, 137, 141 can extend at least partially upwardly from the respective central panel 421 to the respective flange portion of a respective container. In some embodiments, the respective container retention tabs 125, 129, 133, 137, 141 can extend obliquely from the respective central panel 421 to the respective flange F to contact a lower surface or edge thereof in a bracing relationship. In some embodiments, one or more of the container retention tabs 125, 129, 133, 137, 141 can be arranged so as to at least partially contour about the curvature of a respective neck portion of a respective container.

[0136] Such engagement of the carrier 405 with one or more containers C can also include at least partial reconfiguration thereof, for example, via relative movement of one or more portions of the carrier 405 relative to the remainder thereof. In some embodiments, one or both of the central panels 421 can be provided with one or more lines of weakening along a portion thereof, e.g., between respective container retention features, to facilitate such reconfiguration of the carrier 105.

[0137] It will be understood that the carrier 405 can be formed from a different arrangement of an upper web and a lower web. For example, in some embodiments, the blank 403 can form both an upper web and a lower web, and can be laminated to form the carrier 405. As another example, the blank 503 can form both the upper web and the lower web of the carrier 405. As yet another example, the blank 503 can form the upper web and the blank 403 can form the lower web of the carrier 405.

[0138] In general, the blank may be constructed from paperboard having a caliper so that it is heavier and more rigid than ordinary paper. The blank can also be constructed of other materials, such as cardboard, or any other material having properties suitable for enabling the carrier to function at least generally as described above. The blank can be coated with, for example, a clay coating. The clay coating may then be printed over with product, advertising, and other information or images. The blanks may then be coated with a varnish to protect information printed on the blanks. The blanks may also be coated with, for example, a moisture barrier layer, on either or both sides of the blanks. The blanks can also be laminated to or coated with one or more sheet-like materials at selected panels or panel sections.

[0139] As an example, a tear line can include: a slit that extends partially into the material along the desired line of weakness, and/or a series of spaced apart slits that extend partially into and/or completely through the material along the desired line of weakness, or various combinations of these features. As a more specific example, one type tear line is in the form of a series of spaced apart slits that extend completely through the material, with adjacent slits being spaced apart slightly so that a nick (e.g., a small somewhat bridging-like piece of the material) is defined between the adjacent slits for typically temporarily connecting the material across the tear line. The nicks are broken during tearing along the tear line. The nicks typically are a relatively small percentage of the tear line, and alternatively the nicks can be omitted from or torn in a tear line such that the tear line is a continuous cut line. That is, it is within the scope of the present disclosure for each of the tear lines to be replaced with a continuous slit, or the like. For example, a cut line can be a continuous slit or could be wider than a slit without departing from the present disclosure.

[0140] In accordance with the exemplary embodiments, a fold line can be any substantially linear, although not necessarily straight, form of weakening that facilitates folding therealong. More specifically, but not for the purpose of narrowing the scope of the present disclosure, fold lines include: a score line, such as lines formed with a blunt scoring knife, or the like, which creates a crushed or depressed portion in the material along the desired line of weakness; a cut that extends partially into a material along the desired line of weakness, and/or a series of cuts that extend partially into and/or completely through the material along the desired line of weakness; and various combinations of these features. In situations where cutting is used to create a fold line, typically the cutting will not be overly extensive in a manner that might cause a reasonable user to incorrectly consider the fold line to be a tear line.

[0141] The above embodiments may be described as having one or more panels adhered together by glue during erection of the carrier embodiments. The term glue is intended to encompass all manner of adhesives commonly used to secure carrier panels in place.

[0142] The foregoing description of the disclosure illustrates and describes various exemplary embodiments. Various additions, modifications, changes, etc., could be made to the exemplary embodiments without departing from the spirit and scope of the disclosure. It is intended that all matter contained in the above description or shown in the accompanying drawings shall be interpreted as illustrative and not in a limiting sense. Additionally, the disclosure shows and describes only selected embodiments of the disclosure, but the disclosure is capable of use in various other combinations, modifications, and environments and is capable of changes or modifications within the scope of the inventive concept as expressed herein, commensurate with the above teachings, and/or within the skill or knowledge of the relevant art. Furthermore, certain features and characteristics of each embodiment may be selectively interchanged and applied to other illustrated and non-illustrated embodiments of the disclosure.