Carrier For Containers

Abstract

A carrier for holding multiple containers may include an upper carrier portion having several carrier sections. Each carrier section may include an attachment panel that at least partially defines multiple container openings for at least partially receiving respective containers and may include container retention tabs foldably connected to the attachment panel and extending into the container openings for at least partially engaging the containers. A handle panel may be foldably connected to each attachment panel. The carrier may further include a lower tray portion having panels that extend at least partially around an interior of the lower tray portion, including a bottom panel, at least one end panel, and at least one side panel. The interior of the lower tray portion may at least partially receive the containers, and each carrier section may be separably connected to at least one side panel of the lower tray portion.

Claims

1. A carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the carrier comprising: an attachment panel having a perimeter and arranged to at least partially receive an upper portion of each container of the plurality of containers within respective container openings; and a transport panel foldably attached to the perimeter and defining a handle opening.

2. The carrier of claim 1, wherein the attachment panel includes handle apertures.

3. The carrier of claim 1, wherein the carrier is a first carrier of a case and wherein the plurality of containers is a first plurality of containers, and wherein the case includes a second carrier for holding a second plurality of containers.

4. The carrier of claim 3, wherein the case includes a lower tray arranged to receive the first and second plurality of containers.

5. The carrier of claim 4, wherein the attachment panel is a first attachment panel, the perimeter has a first edge, the transport panel is a first transport panel foldably attached to the perimeter at the first edge, the container openings are first container openings, and wherein the first transport panel is foldably attached to the lower tray, and wherein the second carrier includes a second attachment panel having a second edge and arranged to at least partially receive an upper portion of each container of the second plurality of containers within respective second container openings, wherein the case further includes a second transport panel foldably attached to the second edge and defining a second handle opening, the second transport panel removably attached to the lower tray.

6. The carrier of claim 5, wherein the first transport panel is removably attached to the lower tray with a first removable tear strip and wherein the second transport panel is removably attached to the lower tray with a second removable tear strip.

7. The carrier of claim 5, wherein the first attachment panel is removably attached to the second attachment panel.

8. A case for holding a plurality of containers, the case comprising: a lower tray; a first carrier including a first attachment panel having a first edge and arranged to at least partially receive an upper portion of each container of a first set of containers of the plurality of containers within respective first container openings; a first transport panel foldably attached to the first edge and defining a first handle opening, the first transport panel removably attached to the lower tray; a second carrier including a second attachment panel having a second edge and arranged to at least partially receive an upper portion of each container of a second set of containers of the plurality of containers within respective second container openings; and a second transport panel foldably attached to the second edge and defining a second handle opening, the second transport panel removably attached to the lower tray.

9. The case of claim 8, wherein the first transport panel is removably attached to the lower tray with a first removable tear strip and wherein the second transport panel is removably attached to the lower tray with a second removable tear strip.

10. The case of claim 8, wherein the first attachment panel is removably attached to the second attachment panel.

11. The case of claim 8, wherein the lower tray includes a base panel and at least one sidewall, and wherein each of the first transport panel and the second transport panel are attached to the at least one sidewall.

12. The case of claim 8, wherein the lower tray includes a base panel, a first sidewall attached to the base panel, and a second sidewall attached to the base panel, the first sidewall opposite the second sidewall, wherein the first transport panel is attached to the first sidewall and wherein the second sidewall is attached to the second sidewall.

13. The case of claim 8, wherein the lower tray, the first carrier, and the second carrier are made from a unitary blank.

14. The case of claim 8, wherein the lower tray is made from a first blank and wherein the first and second carriers are made from a second blank.

15. A blank for forming a carrier for holding a plurality of containers, the blank comprising: an attachment panel having a perimeter and arranged to at least partially receive an upper portion of each container of the plurality of containers within respective container openings; and a transport panel foldably attached to the perimeter and defining a handle opening.

16. The blank of claim 15, wherein the carrier is a first carrier of a case, the attachment panel is a first attachment panel, the plurality of containers is a first plurality of containers, the perimeter is a first perimeter, the container openings are first container openings, the transport panel is a first transport panel, and the handle opening is a first handle opening, and wherein the blank further comprises a second attachment panel of a second carrier of the case, the second attachment panel having a second perimeter and arranged to at least partially receive an upper portion of each container of a second plurality of containers within respective second container openings, and wherein the blank further comprises a second transport panel foldably attached to the second perimeter and defining a second handle opening.

17. The blank of claim 16, wherein the blank is a first blank, and wherein the case is formed from the first blank and a second blank that forms a lower tray, wherein the first transport panel and the second transport panel are each removably attached to the lower tray when the first blank and the second blank form the case.

18. The blank of claim 16, the blank further comprising a lower tray removably attached to each of the first transport panel and the second transport panel.

19. The blank of claim 16, wherein the first attachment panel is removably attached to the second attachment panel.

20. The blank of claim 17, wherein the lower tray includes a base panel and at least one sidewall, and wherein each of the first transport panel and the second transport panel are attached to the at least one sidewall.

Description

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0009] 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.

[0010] FIG. 1 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank for forming a carrier for containers according to a first exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0011] FIG. 1A is an enlarged view of a portion of the blank of FIG. 1.

[0012] FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a bottle for use with carriers and packages according to exemplary embodiments of the disclosure.

[0013] FIG. 3 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank for forming a carrier for containers according to a second exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0014] FIGS. 4 and 5 are perspective views of a carrier and package formed from the blank of FIG. 3 according to the second exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0015] FIG. 6 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank for forming an upper carrier portion of a carrier for containers according to a third exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0016] FIG. 7 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank for forming a lower tray portion of a carrier for containers according to a third exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0017] FIGS. 8 and 9 are perspective views of a formation of a carrier and package from the blanks of FIGS. 6 and 7 according to the third exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0018] FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a carrier and package formed from the blanks of FIGS. 6 and 7 according to the third exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0019] FIG. 10A is a perspective view showing a user accessing containers in the carrier and package of FIG. 10.

[0020] FIG. 11 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank for forming an upper carrier portion of a carrier for containers according to an alternative configuration of the third exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0021] FIG. 12 is a perspective view of a carrier and package formed from the blanks of FIGS. 11 and 7 according to the alternative configuration of the third exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0022] FIG. 12A is a top plan view of the carrier and package of FIG. 12.

[0023] FIGS. 13-15 are perspective views showing a user accessing containers in the carrier and package of FIG. 12.

[0024] FIG. 16 is a plan view of an exterior surface of a blank for forming a carrier for containers according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0025] FIGS. 17-20 are perspective views of a formation of a carrier and package from the blank of FIG. 16 according to the fourth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0026] FIGS. 21-23 are views of a carrier and package from the blank of FIG. 16 according to the fourth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure.

[0027] FIGS. 24-25 are perspective views showing a user accessing containers in the carrier and package of FIGS. 21-23.

[0028] Corresponding parts are designated by corresponding reference numbers throughout the drawings.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0029] The present disclosure relates to packaging systems designed to hold and transport multiple containers such as bottles, jars, or cans in an organized and secure manner. These packaging systems may be particularly useful for consumer products that are sold in multi-container packages, such as beverage bottles or food jars. The carriers described herein may provide both structural support for the containers and convenient handling features for consumers.

[0030] The packaging system may include individual carriers that feature an attachment panel with multiple container openings arranged in a grid pattern. Each container opening may be sized and shaped to receive and retain the upper portion of a container, such as the neck and cap area of a bottle. The attachment panel may serve as the primary structural element that holds the containers in their designated positions during transport and storage. A transport panel may be foldably connected to the attachment panel along one or more edges, creating a handle structure that allows users to easily carry the loaded carrier.

[0031] Multiple carriers may be combined to form larger packaging cases that can hold greater quantities of containers. In such configurations, two or more carriers may be aligned side by side and connected to a lower tray structure. The lower tray may provide additional stability and support for the containers while also serving as a base platform for the entire case assembly. The transport panels of each carrier may be removably attached to the lower tray through various connection mechanisms, allowing the carriers to be separated from the tray when desired. This modular design may enable flexible packaging options and convenient access to individual containers or groups of containers within the larger case structure.

[0032] 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.

[0033] Carriers 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 food or beverage containers which can include, but are not limited to, generally cylindrical containers such as aluminum cans, glass or polymer (such as plastic) bottles. In this specification, the terms lower, bottom, upper and top indicate orientations determined in relation to fully erected carriers.

[0034] FIG. 1 is a plan view of an exterior surface 101 of a blank 103 for forming a carrier according to a first exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. FIG. 1A is an enlarged view of a portion of the blank 103. As described further herein, the carrier can be configured for holding/supporting/retaining/receiving a plurality of containers.

[0035] As shown in FIG. 2, the containers B can be bottles, e.g., plastic bottles formed of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or another polymer, and each container can have an upper portion that includes an at least partially tapered neck portion N intersecting a flange F that at least partially supports a cap CP. In other embodiments, the containers B could be beverage cans or another suitable type and size of container. The carrier can be provided together with one or more of the containers B as a package.

[0036] Still referring to FIGS. 1 and 1A, the blank 103 has a lateral axis L1 and a longitudinal axis L2. In one embodiment, the axis L1 can be a longitudinal axis and the axis L2 can be a lateral axis.

[0037] The blank 103 can include a top panel or central panel or attachment panel 121 that at least partially defines a plurality of container openings 123 arranged in a row and column arrangement, each container opening 123 laterally and longitudinally spaced apart from a respective adjacent container opening 123. A perimeter of the attachment panel 121 is formed along its boundaries. In the illustrated embodiment, container openings 123 can be arranged in four longitudinal rows and two lateral columns, though a different arrangement can be provided without departing from the disclosure. As described herein, the container openings 123 are provided for at least partially receiving a respective container of the plurality of containers B. Accordingly, a different configuration of container openings 123 could be provided for engaging a different number and/or arrangement of containers B.

[0038] A plurality of container retention tabs 125 can be provided for at least partially engaging a respective container B of the plurality of containers B, the container retention tabs 125 foldably connected to the attachment panel 121 and positioned extending into a respective container opening 123.

[0039] As shown in FIG. 1A, each container retention tab 125 can be at least partially foldably connected to the attachment panel 121 at a respective fold line 127, and can have an oblique free edge 129 exposed to a respective container opening 123.

[0040] Each container retention tab 125, as shown, can be at least partially separable from a respective container retention tab 125 at a respective oblique cut 131 such that each container retention tab 125 can have a respective generally trapezoidal shape, though a different shape (e.g., semicircular, triangular, polygonal, etc.) of the retention tab 125 could be provided without departing from the disclosure. In the illustrated embodiment, container retention tabs 125 can be generally circumferentially arranged about and extending into a respective container opening 123.

[0041] It will be understood that one or more of the container retention tabs 125 can have a different configuration and/or arrangement without departing from the disclosure.

[0042] With continued reference to FIGS. 1 and 1A, the blank 103 and carrier formed therefrom can include handle features for facilitating engagement, e.g., lifting carrying, movement, etc., of the carrier.

[0043] In the illustrated embodiment, the carrier formed from the blank 103 can include a handle panel 133 (or transport panel) foldably connected to the attachment panel 121 at an edge of the perimeter of the attachment panel 121 along a lateral fold line 135. In the illustrated embodiment, the fold line 135 can include at least one discontinuity therealong.

[0044] The handle panel 133 can extend longitudinally away from the attachment panel 121 and at least partially define a handle opening 137 for at least partially receiving a user's fingers and/or hand. The handle opening 137 can have an at least partially-rounded delta shape, though a different configuration of handle opening could be provided without departing from the disclosure.

[0045] A handle reinforcement flap 139 can be positioned extending into the handle opening 137 and can be foldably connected to the handle panel 133 at a lateral fold line 141. The handle reinforcement flap 139 can have a generally semicircular configuration, but could have a different configuration (e.g., circular, polygonal, etc.) without departing from the disclosure.

[0046] The handle features can also include a handle opening or handle aperture 143 at least partially defined in the attachment panel 121 for at least partially receiving a user's fingers, and a pair of handle reinforcement flaps 145 foldably connected to the attachment panel 121 at a respective lateral fold line 147. As described further herein, the handle reinforcement flaps 145 can be at least partially separable from the attachment panel 121 at a respective cut for exposing additional respective handle apertures in the attachment panel 121 for at least partially receiving a user's fingers. The handle aperture 143 can serve as a fiducial marker as part of a machining process when forming a carrier from the blank 103.

[0047] In order to form a carrier from the blank 103, the attachment panel 121 can be positioned above a plurality of containers B, for example, such that respective containers B are generally aligned with the container openings 123. The blank 103 can be lowered onto the containers B such that respective upper portions of the containers B, e.g., the cap CP, flange F, and at least a portion of the neck portions N of respective containers B are at least partially received through the respective container openings 121.

[0048] Such movement of portions of a respective container B through respective container openings 123 can cause respective container retention tabs 125 to fold upwardly at respective portions of the respective fold lines 127 such that the container retention tabs 125 extend from the attachment panel 121 to the underside of the respective flange F of a respective container B, e.g., in a bracing/tightening relationship. In some embodiments, the free edge 129 of the respective container retention tabs 125 can at least partially contact the underside of a respective flange F and/or neck portion N of a respective container B.

[0049] The container retention tabs 125 may be configured to undergo a specific folding motion when containers B are inserted through the container openings 123. During the insertion process, the upper portions of the containers B, including the cap CP and flange F, may contact the container retention tabs 125 as they pass through the respective container openings 123. The downward movement of the containers B may cause each container retention tab 125 to pivot upwardly about its respective fold line 127.

[0050] The upward folding motion of each container retention tab 125 may occur as the flange F of the container B applies a downward force against the oblique free edge 129 of the tab 125. This force may cause the container retention tab 125 to deflect upwardly from its initial position in the plane of the attachment panel 121. The container retention tab 125 may continue to fold upwardly until the oblique free edge 129 clears the flange F and the tab 125 may spring back to engage the underside of the flange F.

[0051] Once the container B has been fully inserted through the container opening 123, the container retention tab 125 may assume a position where it extends upwardly from the attachment panel 121 at an angle relative to the plane of the attachment panel 121. The oblique free edge 129 of the container retention tab 125 may contact the underside surface of the flange F, creating a mechanical interference that prevents the container B from being withdrawn upwardly through the container opening 123.

[0052] The generally trapezoidal shape of each container retention tab 125 may provide sufficient surface area for engagement with the flange F while allowing the tab 125 to flex during the insertion process. The oblique cut 131 that separates adjacent container retention tabs 125 may permit independent movement of each tab 125, allowing each tab to conform to the specific geometry of its respective container B.

[0053] The fold line 127 may serve as a hinge that allows the container retention tab 125 to pivot between a substantially flat position during container insertion and an angled retention position after insertion is complete. The resilient nature of the material forming the blank 103 may provide the spring force necessary for the container retention tab 125 to return to its retention position after the flange F has passed through the container opening 123.

[0054] A package can thus be formed by the containers B and the carrier formed from the blank 103, with a handle thereof presented by the handle panel 133 and associated features such that a user can lift, carry, move, etc., the carrier/package.

[0055] When it is desired to remove a respective container B from the carrier/package formed from the blank 103, the cap CP, flange F, and/or neck N portion of the respective container B can be withdrawn from the respective container opening 123 and away from the attachment panel 121. In some embodiments, manipulation of the container retention tabs 125 can facilitate such disengagement of the container B from the carrier/package. In some embodiments, one or more portions of the carrier/package can be torn to facilitate such disengagement of the container B therefrom.

[0056] Turning to FIG. 3, an exterior surface 201 of a blank 203 for forming a carrier 205 is illustrated according to a second exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. The carrier 205 can be provided with one or more containers B as a package 207.

[0057] The blank 203 and the carrier 205 formed therefrom can have one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the blank 103 and carrier formed therefrom, and like or similar features are designated with like or similar reference numerals.

[0058] As shown, the blank 203 can have the lateral axis L1 and the longitudinal axis L2, and can include the attachment panel 121. As shown, the attachment panel 121 can be generally shorter in the lateral direction so as to include three longitudinal rows of two lateral columns of container openings 123 and associated arrangements of container retention tabs 125 and associated features. In addition, in the illustrated embodiment, the attachment panel 121 can be devoid of the handle opening 143, handle reinforcement flaps 145, and associated features. It will be understood that the attachment panel 121 can have a different configuration and/or arrangement without departing from the disclosure.

[0059] The blank 203 and carrier 205 formed therefrom can include handle features that include a handle panel or transport panel 233 foldably connected to the attachment panel 121 at a longitudinal fold line 235 and positioned extending laterally away therefrom.

[0060] The handle panel 233 can at least partially define a pair of longitudinally spaced apart handle openings 237 having a rectangular or at least partially rounded rectangular configuration. The handle openings 237 can have a different shape (e.g., semicircular, circular, polygonal, etc.) or configuration without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. Respective handle reinforcement flaps 239 can be foldably connected to the handle panel 233 at a respective longitudinal fold line 241 and positioned extending into the respective handle opening 237.

[0061] With additional reference to FIGS. 4 and 5, the carrier 205/package 207 can be formed from the blank 203 in a manner generally similar to that described above with respect to the formation of the carrier/package from the blank 103, e.g., such that the attachment panel 121 is lowered onto a plurality of containers B for at least partially receiving the containers B and engaging the respective containers B.

[0062] A handle 209 can be formed by the handle panel 233 and associated features, and can be foldably connected to the remainder of the carrier 205/package 207 at the fold line 235. A user can curl his or her fingers through the respective handle opening 237 to engage the handle 209. In some embodiments, such contact with the handle 209 can cause the respective handle reinforcement flap 239 to fold at the respective fold line 241 to be positioned between a respective portion of a user's finger/hand and the handle panel 233, e.g., so as to provide an additional ply of material for resistance against tearing, for comfort, etc.

[0063] It will be understood that one or more containers B can be disengaged from the carrier 205/package 207 in the manner described above with respect to the carrier/package formed from the blank 103.

[0064] Turning to FIG. 6, an exterior surface 301 of a blank 303 (broadly, upper carrier portion of at least one blank) for forming an upper carrier or upper carrier portion or upper construct 304 of a carrier 305 is illustrated according to a third exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. The carrier 305 can be provided with one or more containers B as a package 307.

[0065] The blank 303 and the carrier 305 formed therefrom can have one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the blanks 103, 203 and respective carriers formed therefrom, and like or similar features are designated with like or similar reference numerals.

[0066] As shown, the blank 303 can have the lateral axis L1 and the longitudinal axis L2, and can include a plurality of separably-connected carrier sections 311, 313, 315, 317. The carrier sections can also be referred to as separate carriers. Thus, the upper carrier portion can be a collection of carriers removably attached to each other. Each of the carriers can be associated with a set of containers. Each carrier section can be generally similar to the blank 203 described above, except that each carrier section of the blank 303 can additionally include access features comprising a respective tear strip 349 separably connected to the respective handle panel 233 at a respective longitudinal line of weakening 351, and separably connected to a respective attachment panel 353 at a respective longitudinal line of weakening 355. The respective tear strips 349, as shown can at least partially define a respective access tab 357 protruding away from respective free edges of the attachment panel 353 and handle panel 233. In some examples, transport panel can refer to handle panel 233 as well as the tear strip 349 and attachment panel 353.

[0067] As described further herein, the respective attachment panels 353 are for being attached to a lower tray or other carrying structure. In this regard, the respective tear strips 349 are for facilitating the separation of each carrier section 311, 313, 315, 317 from a respective portion of such tray or carrying structure.

[0068] The carrier sections 311, 313, 315, 317 may be separably connected through a series of lines of weakening 312, 314, 316, 318 that may be strategically positioned between adjacent carrier sections. Each line of weakening may comprise a series of perforations, score lines, or reduced material thickness that may allow for controlled separation while maintaining structural integrity during normal handling and transport operations.

[0069] The lines of weakening 312, 314, 316, 318 may be configured to provide sufficient connection strength to maintain the carrier sections in proper alignment during assembly, filling, and initial handling operations. The perforations or score lines may be dimensioned to resist separation under normal handling forces while allowing intentional separation when a user applies a deliberate tearing force. The spacing and depth of the perforations may be calibrated to provide a predictable tear path that may separate cleanly along the intended line without propagating into adjacent areas of the carrier sections.

[0070] Each carrier section 311, 313, 315, 317 may include reinforcement features adjacent to the respective lines of weakening to prevent unintended structural failure. The attachment panels 121 of adjacent carrier sections may be connected through overlapping material regions that may extend across the lines of weakening. These overlapping regions may provide additional structural support while maintaining the separable connection functionality.

[0071] The mechanical connection between carrier sections may be further enhanced through interlocking features that may engage when the carrier sections are positioned in their assembled configuration. These interlocking features may comprise complementary tabs and slots that may be positioned along the edges of adjacent carrier sections. The tabs may extend from one carrier section and may be received within corresponding slots in the adjacent carrier section, creating a mechanical interlock that may resist lateral movement while permitting separation along the lines of weakening.

[0072] The lines of weakening 312, 314, 316, 318 may extend through multiple layers of the blank material where carrier sections overlap. The perforation pattern may be configured to maintain registration between layers, ensuring that the separation occurs uniformly across the full thickness of the material. The perforation depth may be controlled to penetrate a predetermined percentage of the material thickness, leaving sufficient material to maintain connection while facilitating clean separation when desired.

[0073] The structural integrity of the separable connection may be maintained through the distribution of stress across multiple connection points along each line of weakening. The perforations may be arranged in a staggered pattern that may prevent stress concentration at any single point. The remaining material between perforations may be sized to carry the anticipated loads during normal handling while allowing progressive failure during intentional separation.

[0074] Adjacent carrier sections may include alignment features that may maintain proper positioning during assembly and handling operations. These alignment features may comprise registration marks, tabs, or other geometric features that may ensure consistent spacing and orientation between carrier sections. The alignment features may work in conjunction with the lines of weakening to provide a stable connection that may be easily separated when required.

[0075] The tear strips 349 may be connected to the attachment panels 353 through additional lines of weakening 355 that may function similarly to the lines of weakening between carrier sections. These connections may allow the tear strips to be removed while maintaining the structural integrity of the attachment panels during normal use. The tear strips may provide a convenient gripping surface for initiating separation of the carrier sections from associated tray structures.

[0076] The tear strips 349 may be configured to provide a dual attachment mechanism that maintains structural integrity of the carrier assembly while enabling selective separation when desired. Each tear strip 349 may be separably connected to the handle panel 233 along the longitudinal line of weakening 351. This connection may be formed through a series of perforations or score lines that extend partially through the material thickness. The perforations may be spaced at predetermined intervals to provide sufficient holding strength during normal handling while allowing controlled separation when force is applied to the access tab 357.

[0077] The tear strips 349 may simultaneously be separably connected to the attachment panel 353 along the longitudinal line of weakening 355. This second connection may employ a similar perforation pattern or score line configuration that extends partially into the substrate material. The dual attachment configuration may create a bridging element that spans between the handle panel 233 and the attachment panel 353, thereby providing structural continuity across the joint.

[0078] The mechanical attachment between the tear strip 349 and the handle panel 233 may be achieved through a series of alternating cuts and nicks along the line of weakening 351. The cuts may extend completely through the material while the nicks may remain as small connecting bridges of material. These nicks may be sized to withstand normal handling forces while failing under deliberate tearing action. The spacing between cuts may be optimized to balance holding strength with ease of separation.

[0079] Similarly, the connection between the tear strip 349 and the attachment panel 353 may utilize a comparable perforation pattern along the line of weakening 355. The perforation depth may be controlled to maintain approximately 20-40% of the original material thickness as connecting material. This remaining material thickness may provide adequate strength to resist inadvertent separation while allowing intentional tearing when the access tab 357 is pulled.

[0080] The tear strip 349 may extend longitudinally between the two connection points, creating a continuous strip of material that mechanically links the handle panel 233 to the attachment panel 353. The width of the tear strip 349 may be dimensioned to provide sufficient material for reliable gripping via the access tab 357 while minimizing material usage. The tear strip 349 may maintain constant width along its length to ensure uniform stress distribution during separation.

[0081] The access tab 357 may be formed as an integral extension of the tear strip 349, protruding beyond the free edges of both the handle panel 233 and the attachment panel 353. This configuration may allow a user to grasp the access tab 357 and apply pulling force in a direction substantially parallel to the lines of weakening 351 and 355. The protruding geometry may facilitate finger engagement and provide mechanical advantage during the tearing operation.

[0082] During normal use, the dual attachment of the tear strips 349 may maintain the structural connection between the handle panel 233 and the attachment panel 353, thereby securing the carrier section to the lower tray 405. The tear strips 349 may transmit loads between these components, allowing the assembled carrier to function as a unified structure. The perforation patterns may be designed to withstand typical lifting, carrying, and handling forces without premature failure.

[0083] When separation is desired, tension applied to the access tab 357 may initiate failure along both lines of weakening 351 and 355 substantially simultaneously. The tear may propagate along the perforated lines, severing the connections between the tear strip 349 and both the handle panel 233 and the attachment panel 353. This dual separation may free the associated carrier section from the lower tray assembly while leaving the tear strip 349 attached to the access tab 357 for disposal

[0084] In the illustrated embodiment, the carrier section 311 can be separably connected to the carrier section 313 at a longitudinal line of weakening 312, the carrier section 313 can be separably connected to the carrier section 315 at a lateral line of weakening 314, the carrier section 315 can be separably connected to the carrier section 313 at a longitudinal line of weakening 316, and the carrier section 317 can be separably connected to the carrier section 311 at a lateral line of weakening 318. It will be understood that a different number and/or arrangement of carrier sections can be provided without departing from the disclosure.

[0085] In this regard, the carrier section 313 can generally be a mirror image of the carrier section 311 taken over an axis parallel to the longitudinal axis L2, and the carrier sections 315, 317 can generally be mirror images of the respective carrier sections 313, 311 taken over an axis parallel to the lateral axis L1.

[0086] With additional reference to FIG. 7, the exterior surface 401 of a blank 403 (broadly, lower tray portion of at least one blank) for forming a lower carrying structure or lower tray portion or tray 405 of the carrier 305 according to the third exemplary embodiment of the disclosure is illustrated. The lower tray 405 and the carrier 305 can be combined to form a case. The case can be formed using multiple blanks (e.g., blank 303 and blank 403). In some examples, the case can be formed from a single unitary blank.

[0087] The blank 403 and the tray 405 formed therefrom can have the lateral axis L1, the longitudinal axis L2, and a plurality of panels for extending at least partially around the interior 407 of the tray 405.

[0088] In the illustrated embodiment, the plurality of panels of the blank 403 and the tray 405 formed therefrom can include a bottom panel or base panel 421, a first side panel or sidewall 423 foldably connected to the bottom panel 421 at a longitudinal fold line 425, a second side panel or sidewall 427 foldably connected to the bottom panel 421 at a longitudinal fold line 429, a first end panel 431 foldably connected to the bottom panel 421 at a lateral fold line 433, and a second end panel 435 foldably connected to the bottom panel 421 at a lateral fold line 437.

[0089] The side panel 423, as shown, can include a central portion 439, a first corner portion 441 foldably connected to the central portion 439 at a lateral fold line 443, and a second corner portion 445 foldably connected to the central portion 439 at a lateral fold line 447.

[0090] Similarly, the side panel 427 can include a central portion 449, a first corner portion 451 foldably connected to the central portion 449 at a lateral fold line 453, and a second corner portion 455 foldably connected to the central portion 449 at a lateral fold line 457.

[0091] Each corner portion 441, 445, 451, 455, as shown, can include a respective plurality of foldably connected articulable segments 459, with adjacent segments 459 foldably connected to one another at a respective lateral fold line 461.

[0092] The blank 403 and the tray 405 formed therefrom can also include a plurality of end flaps foldably connected to a respective panel of the plurality of panels. In the illustrated embodiment, the end flaps can include an attachment end flap 463 foldably connected to the corner portion 441 at a lateral fold line 464, an attachment end flap 465 foldably connected to the corner portion 445 at a lateral fold line 467, an attachment end flap 469 foldably connected to the corner portion 451 at a lateral fold line 471, and an attachment end flap 473 foldably connected to the corner portion 455 at a lateral fold line 475.

[0093] With additional reference to FIGS. 8-9, in order to form the upper construct 304 of the carrier 305, the attachment panels 121 of the respective carrier sections 311, 313, 315, 317 of the blank 303 can be positioned above a plurality of containers B, for example, such that respective containers B are generally aligned with the container openings 123. The blank 303 can be lowered onto the containers B such that respective portions of the containers B, e.g., the cap CP, flange F, and at least a portion of the neck portions N of respective containers B are at least partially received through the respective container openings 121.

[0094] Such movement of portions of a respective container B through respective container openings 123 can cause respective container retention tabs 125 to fold upwardly at respective portions of the respective fold lines 127 such that the container retention tabs 125 extend from the attachment panel 121 to the underside of the respective flange F of a respective container B, e.g., in a bracing/tightening relationship. In some embodiments, the free edge 129 of the respective container retention tabs 125 can at least partially contact the underside of a respective flange F and/or neck portion N of a respective container B.

[0095] Simultaneously or thereafter, the tray 405 can be formed by inverting the blank 403, for example, such that the exterior surface 401 thereof is positioned on a supporting surface and such that an interior surface is positioned facing upwardly.

[0096] The side panels 423, 427 can be folded generally upwardly at the respective fold lines 425, 429, and the end panels 431, 435 can be folded generally upwardly at the respective fold lines 433, 437.

[0097] The corner portion 441 of the side panel 423 can be folded relative to the central portion 439 thereof at the fold line 443 and the plurality of segments 459 can be positioned into a generally curving arrangement (or some other arrangement, such as a straight linear arrangement, sloped linear arrangement, etc.) via relative folding at the respective fold lines 461 to form a corner 409 of the tray 405.

[0098] Similarly, the corner portion 445 of the side panel 423 can be folded relative to the central portion 439 thereof at the fold line 447 and the plurality of segments 459 can be positioned into a generally curving arrangement via relative folding at the respective fold lines 461 to form a corner 411 of the tray 405.

[0099] The corner portion 451 of the side panel 427 can be folded relative to the central portion 449 thereof at the fold line 453 and the plurality of segments 459 can be positioned into a generally curving arrangement via relative folding at the respective fold lines 461 to form a corner 413 of the tray 405.

[0100] Further, the corner portion 473 of the side panel 427 can be folded relative to the central portion 449 thereof at the fold line 457 and the plurality of segments 459 can be positioned into a generally curving arrangement via relative folding at the respective fold lines 461 to form a corner 415 of the tray 405.

[0101] Such arrangement of the corners 409, 411 of the tray 405 can position the respective attachment end flaps 463, 465 for at least partial face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the respective end panel 431, 435.

[0102] Similarly, the formation of the corners 413, 415 of the tray 405 can position the respective attachment end flaps 469, 473 for at least partial face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the respective end panel 431, 435.

[0103] Such arrangement of the tray 405 provides the plurality of panels thereof extending at least partially around the interior 407 thereof such that the upper carrier 304 can be at least partially lowered toward the tray 405 so that the lower portions of the respective containers B can be at least partially received therein.

[0104] Accordingly, the respective attachment panels 353 of the respective carrier sections 311, 317 of the upper carrier 304 can be positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the central portion 439 of the side panel 423. Similarly, the respective attachment panels 353 of the respective carrier sections 313, 315 of the upper carrier 304 can be positioned in at least partial face-to-face contact with the central portion 449 of the side panel 427.

[0105] Such an arrangement of the carrier 305 can be at least partially maintained via one or more applications of an adhesive such as glue. In some embodiments, glue can be applied to one or more of the attachment end flaps 463, 465, 469, 473 and the attachment panels 353.

[0106] It will be understood that the carrier 305 can include at least the upper carrier 304. In some embodiments, the carrier 305 can include both the upper carrier 304 and the tray 405. When the carrier includes both the upper carrier 304 and the tray 405, the carrier 305 can be referred to as a case.

[0107] When it is desired to access one or more containers B associated with the carrier 305/package 307, multiple options are provided to a user. The package can include the case and the containers B included in the case.

[0108] For example, with additional reference to FIGS. 10-11, a user can selectively access containers B associated with a selected carrier section 311, 313, 315, 317 of the blank 303/carrier 305 formed therefrom by separating the respective tear strip 349 from at least a respective handle panel 233. For example, in some embodiments, a user can engage a respective access tab 357 associated with a respective tear strip 349 and separate the tear strip 349 from the respective handle panel 233 along the respective line of weakening 351. In some embodiments, such separation of the tear strip 349 can also include separation from the respective attachment panel 353 attached to the tray 405 at the respective line of weakening 355.

[0109] In such an arrangement, the respective selected carrier section(s) 311, 313, 315, 317 are free from attachment to the tray 405. Accordingly, the respective carrier section(s) 311, 313, 315, 317 can be separated from one another at a respective line of weakening 312, 314, 316, 318 to provide a respective carrier section 311, 313, 315, 317 separated from the tray 305 and generally having the configuration of a carrier 205/package 207 as described above, with similar advantages and functionality.

[0110] It will be understood that, in some embodiments, multiple carrier sections 311, 313, 315, 317 can optionally remain at least partially attached at a respective line of weakening 312, 314, 316, 318 so as to provide a multipack-type structure.

[0111] Turning to FIG. 11, an exterior surface 301A of a blank 303A (broadly, upper carrier portion of at least one blank) for forming an upper carrier or upper carrier portion or upper construct 304A of a carrier 305A is illustrated according to an alternative configuration of the third exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. The carrier 305A can be provided with one or more containers B as a package 307A.

[0112] With additional reference to FIGS. 12-15, the blank 303A and the carrier 305A/package 307A formed therefrom can be generally similar to the blank 303 and carrier 305/package 307 formed therefrom described above, with the exception that the attachment panels 353 are generally shorter along the lateral axis L1.

[0113] In this regard, the carrier 305A/package 307A can be formed from the blank 303A in a manner generally similar to that described above with respect to the formation of the carrier 305/package 307 from the blank 303, with similar functionality and advantages. Accordingly, containers B attached to the upper carrier 304A formed from the blank 303A can be at least partially received in the interior 407 of the tray 405 to form the carrier 305A/package 307A. In some embodiments, the carrier 305A/package 307A can be provided without the tray 405.

[0114] Turning to FIG. 16, an exterior surface 501 of a blank 503 for forming a carrier 505 is illustrated according to a fourth exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. The carrier 505 can be provided with one or more containers B as a package 507. In some examples, the case is formed from blank 503 and can include a combination of a lower tray removably attached to several carriers.

[0115] The blank 503 and the carrier 505 formed therefrom can have one or more features that are the same or similar to those described above with respect to the blanks 103, 203, 303, 303A, 403 and respective carriers/trays formed therefrom, and like or similar features are designated with like or similar reference numerals.

[0116] As shown, the blank 503 can have the lateral axis L1 and the longitudinal axis L2, and can include a lower tray portion 509 for forming a lower tray portion 513 of the carrier 505 formed from the blank 503, and an upper carrier portion 511 for forming an upper carrier portion 515 of the carrier 505 formed from the blank 503. As shown, the lower tray portion 509 can be positioned between portions of the upper carrier portion 511 so as to at least partially interrupt the upper carrier portion 511.

[0117] In the illustrated embodiment, the lower carrier portion 509 of the blank 503 and the carrier 505 formed therefrom can generally have the configuration of the blank 403 and tray 405 formed therefrom, e.g., so as to include the bottom panel 421, the side panels 423, 427, the end panels 431, 435, the attachment end flaps 463, 465, 469, 473, and associated features.

[0118] As also shown, the portion of the upper carrier portion 511 of the blank 503 to the left of the lower tray portion 509 can generally have the configuration of the carrier sections 311, 317 of the blank 303, with the exception of being devoid of the attachment panels 353. In this regard, the respective tear strips 349 can be separably connected to the side panel 423 at the respective line of weakening 355.

[0119] Similarly, the portion of the upper carrier portion 511 of the blank 503 to the 315 of the lower tray portion 509 can generally have the configuration of the carrier sections 313, 317 of the blank 303, with the exception of being devoid of the attachment panels 353 such that the respective tear strips 349 can be separably connected to the side panel 427 at the respective line of weakening 355.

[0120] Accordingly, the carrier sections 311, 313 of the blank 503 can be separably connected to each other at the line of weakening 313 and to the side panel 423 of the lower tray portion 509 at the respective lines of weakening 355. Similarly, the carrier sections 315, 317 of the blank 503 can be separably connected to each other at the line of weakening 314, and to the side panel 427 of the lower tray portion 509 at the respective lines of weakening 355.

[0121] It will be understood that the blank 503 can have a different configuration without departing from the disclosure.

[0122] With additional reference to FIGS. 17-21, formation of the carrier 505 from the blank 503 will be described according to an exemplary embodiment of the disclosure. The blank 503 can be inverted, e.g., such that the exterior surface 101 thereof is positioned on a supporting surface and such that an interior surface thereof is positioned facing upwardly.

[0123] A plurality of containers B can be positioned on the bottom panel 421 of the tray portion 509 of the blank 503. The side panels 423, 427 can be folded at the respective fold lines 425, 429 into generally upright relation with the bottom panel 421. The end panels 431, 435 can be similarly folded at the respective fold lines 433, 437 into generally upright relation with the bottom panel 421.

[0124] The corner portion 441 of the side panel 423 can be folded relative to the central portion 439 thereof at the fold line 443 and the plurality of segments 459 can be positioned into a generally curving arrangement (or some other arrangement, such as a straight linear arrangement, sloped linear arrangement, etc.) via relative folding at the respective fold lines 461 to form the corner 409 of the lower tray portion 513.

[0125] Similarly, the corner portion 445 of the side panel 423 can be folded relative to the central portion 439 thereof at the fold line 447 and the plurality of segments 459 can be positioned into a generally curving arrangement (or some other arrangement, such as a straight linear arrangement, sloped linear arrangement, etc.) via relative folding at the respective fold lines 461 to form the corner 411 of the lower tray portion 513.

[0126] The corner portion 451 of the side panel 427 can be folded relative to the central portion 449 thereof at the fold line 453 and the plurality of segments 459 can be positioned into a generally curving arrangement (or some other arrangement, such as a straight linear arrangement, sloped linear arrangement, etc.) via relative folding at the respective fold lines 461 to form the corner 413 of the lower tray portion 513.

[0127] Further, the corner portion 473 of the side panel 427 can be folded relative to the central portion 449 thereof at the fold line 457 and the plurality of segments 459 can be positioned into a generally curving arrangement (or some other arrangement, such as a straight linear arrangement, sloped linear arrangement, etc.) via relative folding at the respective fold lines 461 to form the corner 415 of the lower tray portion 513.

[0128] Such arrangement of the corners 409, 411 of the lower tray portion 513 can position the respective attachment end flaps 463, 465 for at least partial face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the respective end panel 431, 435.

[0129] Similarly, the formation of the corners 413, 415 of the lower tray portion 513 can position the respective attachment end flaps 469, 473 for at least partial face-to-face contact with a respective portion of the respective end panel 431, 435.

[0130] In such an arrangement, the lower tray portion 513 of the carrier 505 is arranged so as to extend at least partially around the interior 407 thereof and presented with the corners 409, 411, 413, 415.

[0131] With continued reference to FIGS. 17-23, the respective attachment panels 121 can be folded relative to the respective handle panels 233 at the respective fold lines 235 so as to be positioned in generally planar spaced relation above the bottom panel 421 of the lower tray portion 513.

[0132] In order to form the upper carrier portion 515 of the carrier 505, the attachment panels 121 of the respective carrier sections 311, 313, 315, 317 can be lowered onto the containers B such that respective portions of the containers B, e.g., the cap CP, flange F, and at least a portion of the neck portions N of respective containers B are at least partially received through the respective container openings 121.

[0133] Such movement of portions of a respective container B through respective container openings 123 can cause respective container retention tabs 125 to fold upwardly at respective portions of the respective fold lines 127 such that the container retention tabs 127 extend from the attachment panel 121 to the underside of the respective flange F of a respective container B, e.g., in a bracing/tightening relationship. In some embodiments, the free edge 129 of the respective container retention tabs 125 can at least partially contact the underside of a respective flange F and/or neck portion N of a respective container B.

[0134] Such an arrangement of the carrier 305 can be at least partially maintained via one or more applications of an adhesive such as glue. In some embodiments, glue can be applied to one or more of the attachment end flaps 463, 465, 469, 473.

[0135] When it is desired to access one or more containers B associated with the carrier 505/package 507, multiple options are provided to a user.

[0136] For example, with additional reference to FIGS. 24 and 25, a user can selectively access containers B associated with a selected carrier section 311, 313, 315, 317 of the blank 503/carrier 505 formed therefrom by separating the respective tear strip 349 from at least a respective handle panel 233. For example, in some embodiments, a user can engage a respective access tab 357 associated with a respective tear strip 349 and separate the tear strip 349 from the respective handle panel 233 along the respective line of weakening 351. In some embodiments, such separation of the tear strip 349 can also include separation from the respective side panel 423, 427 attached to the lower tray portion 513 at the respective line of weakening 355.

[0137] In such an arrangement, the respective selected carrier section(s) 311, 313, 315, 317 are free from attachment to the lower tray portion 513. Accordingly, the respective carrier section(s) 311, 313, 315, 317 can be separated from one another at a respective line of weakening 314, 318 to provide a respective carrier section 311, 313, 315, 317 separated from the tray 505 and generally having the configuration of a carrier 205/package 207 as described above, with similar advantages and functionality.

[0138] It will be understood that, in some embodiments, multiple carrier sections 311, 313, 315, 317 can optionally remain at least partially attached at a respective line of weakening 314, 318 so as to provide a multipack-type structure.

[0139] 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.

[0140] 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 of 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.

[0141] 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.

[0142] 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.

[0143] 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.