BRPI0608396A2 - carrier package, and blanket to be erected in the form of a wrap-around carrier package - Google Patents

Abstract

A carrier package (150), comprising a carrier and containers located therein, said carrier (150) comprising a top panel (20), two side panels (50,60), a bottom panel (30), first and second upper (54a,64a) and lower (56a,66a) gussets at least partially closing an upper and a lower part of a first and a second end of the carrier (150) respectively, and a dispenser pattern (100) extending at least partially across each of the top panel (20), the bottom panel (30), and at least one of the side panels (50,60), with the dispenser pattern (100) defining a dispenser flap (70) that is at least partially removable from a remainder of the carrier (150) so that a dispenser opening through which the containers (C) can be dispensed is defined by the remainder of the carrier (150) in response to the dispenser flap (70) having been at least partially removed from the remainder of the carrier (150).

Description

CARRIER PACKAGING, AND BLANKET TO BE CORRECTED AS AN INVOLVING CARRIER PACKAGE

Fundamentals

Generally speaking, an enclosing carrier is conventionally formed by wrapping a carrier pad around a container assembly and connecting opposite ends of the blanket to each other with adhesive material or mechanical imprints. A conventional wrap-around carrier is typically separated at the ends of the connected blanket, or portions of the carrier are torn at the ends of the carrier to allow removal of containers held within the carrier. Such conventional enveloping carriers typically do not have a dispensing aspect that is defined as containers contained in a carrier may be dispensed in a controlled manner. As a result, conventional enveloping carriers suffer the disadvantage that once opened, they can no longer maintain the containers or the integrity of the entire carrier is compromised.

There is therefore a need when engaging carriers that have non-dispensing characteristics. More generally described, there is a need for wrap-around carriers that provide a new balance of properties.

summary

According to one aspect, the present invention is generally related to a wrap-around conveyor for articles with recessed projections, gussets and a dispensing feature. The conveyor is generally held together by a locking system and accommodates a plurality of containers to form a transport package. The inlay and gusset projections are in the. near the open ends of the wrapping carrier for articles to hold articles securely within the carrier package and to allow printed information about the articles such as product information, brand information, logos, and other information to be viewed by potential customers. In addition, the carrier package may occupy less area than conventional carrier packages. According to one example, when dispensing is desired, the carrier package is placed on its side panel and the dispensing feature is removed from the carrier package to form an opening from which the articles are dispensed. The integrity of the carrier is substantially preserved after the dispensing feature is removed. In addition, the flush projections and the remaining gussets can help keep the articles within the carrier package so that the articles can be dispensed in a controlled mode upon removal of the dispensing characteristic.

In one embodiment of the present invention, the wrap-around carrier package is constructed by engaging primary or secondary latches with a feature of preserving dividers to also restrict articles within the carrier from falling out of the carrier.

In one aspect of the present invention, the enveloping carrier in addition has tabs depressing at its rear end to also restrict articles within the conveyor from falling out of the conveyor. In another aspect of the present invention. The wrap-around carrier further comprises another aspect of the present invention, the wrap-around carrier additionally comprises a fold-down gusset at its rear end to also restrict articles within the carrier from falling off the carrier. Down-folding gussets provide an additional area for printed information or the like.

Those skilled in the art will appreciate that the above advantages and other advantages and benefits of the various additional aspects occur by reading the detailed description given below with reference to the Figures of the drawings listed below.

According to common practice, the various features of the drawings discussed below are not necessarily drawn to scale. The dimensions of the various features and elements in the drawings may be expanded or reduced to more clearly illustrate the embodiments of the invention.

Brief Description of the Drawings

Figure 1 is a plan view of a blank used to form a wrap-around carrier package having a dispensing feature according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

Figures 2-3 are perspective views of loading and partial building of the first mode of carrier packaging.

Figure 4 is a bottom view of the first type of erected carrier package.

Figure 5 is a front view of the first mode of carrier packaging.

Figure 6 is a rear view of the first carrier packaging mode.

Figure 7 is a perspective view of the first mode of carrier packaging.

Figure 8 is a bottom view of the first mode of the first carrier. Figure 9 is a perspective view of the first mode of carrier packaging.

Figure 10 illustrates a user opening the dispensing feature of the first mode of carrier packaging.

Figure 11 illustrates a user also opening the dispensing feature of the first mode of carrier packaging.

Figure 12 illustrates a first mode of carrier packaging with its dispensing feature removed.

Figure 13 is a plan view of a blank used to form a wrap-around carrier package having a first dispensing feature according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 14 is a plan view of a blank used for a wrap-around carrier package having a dispensing feature according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 15 is a bottom view of the third mode of carrier packaging.

Figure 16 is a front view of the third mode of carrier packaging.

Figure 17 is a rear view of the third mode of carrier packaging.

Figure 18 illustrates the third mode of carrier packaging with its dispensing feature removed.

Figure 19 is a plan view of a blank used to form a wrap-around carrier package which has a dispensing feature according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 20 is a rear view of the fourth mode of carrier package.

Figure 21 is a view of the fourth mode of carrier packaging.

Figure 22 is a perspective bottom view of that carrier carrier embodiment.

Figure 23 illustrates the fourth mode of carrier packaging with its dispensing feature removed.

Figure 24 is a plan view of a blank used to form a wrap-around carrier package which has a dispensing feature according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

Figure 25 is a rear view of the fifth mode of carrier package.

Figure 27 illustrates the fifth mode of carrier packaging with its dispensing feature removed.

Detailed Description

Figure 1 is a plan view of the blanket 8 used to form a carrier package 150 (shown in Figures 4-12) according to a first embodiment of the present invention. Blanking 8 comprises a first or bottom inner panel 30 that can be foldably connected to a first side panel 50 on a fold line 33, a foldable top panel 20 to the first side panel 50 on fold line 25, a second panel side 60 is connected to a foldable top panel 20 in a fold line 29, and a second or outer bottom panel 40 that can be connected to the second panel 60 in fold line 45. in total, blanket 8 is generally rectangular in shape. your form. The outer or printed side of the blanket 8 is shown in Figure 1, while the inner side of the blanket is partially shown in Figures 2-3.

The top panel 20 has a generally rectangular shape with jagged corners and curved cut outs 21a, 21b. Curved cut outs 21a, 21b may be shaped and sized such that the top panel 20 generally conforms to the shapes of the Cmantled containers within the finished carrier package 150 (Figure 7).

Inner bottom panel 30 includes cutouts forming primary female locking edges 38a, 38b, 38c that are adapted to respectively engage male primary locking projections 48a, 48b, 48c of outer bottom panel 40. Inner bottom panel 30 also includes slots 32a, 32b 32c adapted to respectively receive the locking male secondary projections 42a, 42b, 42c extending from the bottom outer panel40 includes a fold line 47 which is interrupted by the slots defining the male locking primary projections 48a, 48b, 48c . Male secondary locking projections 42a, 42b, 42c are connected along fold line 47 and each projection includes an intermediate fold line 43a-c. While the locking elements are illustrated to demonstrate a typical backplane locking arrangement suitable for use with the carrier package of the present invention, it should be understood that any desired shape of the backboard locking means may be employed. For example, glue or other adhesive material, or other suitable fastening means, may be used to secure the bottom panels 30, 40 together. For example, a description of an alternative locking system is discussed below with reference to Figure 14.

A first flush front panel 52a is pivotally connected to the front end of the first side panel 50 in a fold line 51a.

A first recessed back panel 52b is foldably connected to the rear end of the first side panel 50 in a fold line 51b. A second flush front panel 62a is connected to a foldable first end of the second side panel 60 in a fold line 61a. A second recessed back panel 62b is flexibly connected '*' - 'to the rear end of the second side panel 60 in a fold line 61b.

A first retaining front panel 56a is pivotally connected to a truncated front right corner of the inner bottom panel 30 in fold line 53a, and to the first flush front panel 52 in a fold line 55a. A first retaining rear panel 56b is pivotally connected to a truncated right rear corner of the deep inner panel 30 in a fold line 53b, and to the first recessed back panel 52b in a fold line 55b. A second retaining front panel 54a is connected to a foldable front panel 52a in a fold line 57a, and to a truncated left front corner of the top panel 20 in a fold line 59a. A second rear retaining panel 54b is foldably connected to the first black folding rear panel 52b in a folding line 57b, and to a truncated left rear corner of the top panel 20 in folding line 59b.

A third retaining front panel 64a is pivotally connected to a truncated front right corner of the top panel 20 in a fold line 63a, and to the second flush front panel 62 a fold line 65a. A third retaining rear panel 64b is pivotally connected to a truncated right rear corner of the top panel 20 on a fold line 63b, and to the second recessed rear panel 62b on a fold line 65b. A retaining rear panel 66b is foldably connected to the second recessed back panel 62b in a fold line 67b and to a truncated left rear corner of outer bottom panel 40 in fold line 69b.

One or more of the fold lines 55a, 57a, 55b, 57b, 65a, 67a, 65b, 67b may include, for example, one or more slots. The slots can be extended to the respective edges of the blanket 8 to facilitate folding of the recessed panels.

According to a representative aspect of the invention, a dispensing contour 100 is defined on the plate 8. The dispensing contour 100 may be defined by the tear lines 71 and 75. The illustrated dispensing contour 100 may be defined by the tear lines71 and 7 ". 100 shown extends along the length of each of the top panel 20, the second side panel 60 and the outer bottom panel 40 near the front end of the blanket 8.

The dispensing contour 100 defines a dispensing feature 70. The illustrated dispensing contour 100 also includes a fold line 73, a curved fold line 77, and slots 78 that extend respectively from both ends of the curved fold line77 to the tear line 75. Lines 73, 77 define a traction projection 74 in the dispense feature 70. The portion of the dispensing feature 70 which is surrounded by the cut lines 71 and the fold line 73 forms an extension traction projection 72 is an extension of the dispense projection. traction 74.

Cutouts 84a-g are respectively formed between each retaining panel and associated side panel. Compression cutouts 82a-f are respectively formed on inner bottom panel 30 and outer bottom panel40 along fold lines 33 and 45. Compression cutouts 82a -f may receive the bottom portions of the containers C retained on the erected conveyor 150. A viewing aperture 80 may be formed in the blanket 8 by removing a portion of the bottom outer panel 40. The apertures 80a, 80b may also be formed in the top panel 20 (shown in Figure 13) or the first side panel 50 (not shown).

A representative method of the transporter building 150 will now be discussed with reference to Figures 2-4. Figure 2 illustrates an initial step in building the carrier package 150, wherein the containers C are placed upside down on the inner side of the top panel 20 of the blanket 8. Referring to Figure 3, the side panels 50, 60 are then folded in the direction towards each other. towards the containers C. As the side panels 50, 60 are folded in the upward direction, the flush panels 52a, 52b, 62a, 62b are folded inwardly around the fold lines 51a, 51b, 61a, 61b, respectively. At the same time, and as a result, the retaining panels 54a, 54b, 56a, 64a, 64b, 66a, 66b are pulled inwardly to wrap around the container parts C and form gussets. After the deep outer panel 40 is secured to the inner bottom panel 30 as discussed below, the recessed panels 52a, 52b, 62a, 62b and retaining panels 54a, 54b, 56a, 64a, 64b, 66a, 66bs are held in place by of the recessed panels 52a, 52b, 62a, 62b being sandwiched respectively between the cans C and the side panels 50, 60.

Referring to Figure 4, the outer bottom panel 40 is secured to the inner bottom panel 30 by first engaging male locking projections 48a, 48b, 48c with primary female locking edges 38a, 38b, 38c respectively. Male locking projections 42a, 42b, 42c are respectively inserted through, and cooperatively interacting with, slots 32a, 32b, 32c to additionally secure outer bottom panel 40 to inner bottom panel 30. Inner bottom panel 30 and outer bottom panel 40 attached together form a bottom panel 125. The bottom portions of the Container containers respectively associated with the compression cutouts 82a-f to allow for a tighter wrapping of the carrier package 150 around the containers C.

Figure 5 is a front view of the carrier package 150 erected. As shown in Figure 5, when the flush panel 52a is folded inwardly around the fold line 51a, the retaining panels 54a, 56a respectively abut the adjacent containers and form a pair of gussets 54a, 56a. When the flush panel 62a is folded inwardly around the fold line 61a, the retaining panels 64a, 66 respectively abut the adjacent containers C and form a pair of gussets 64a, 66a. The gussets 54a, 64a secure the top part of the containers C by the front end.

The gussets 56a, 66a secure the bottom portion of the containers C from the front. Figure 6 is a rear view of the carrier package 150 erected. As shown in Figure 6, when the flush panel 52 is folded around the fold line 51b, the holding panels 54b, 56b respectively abut the adjacent containers C and form a pair of gussets 54b, 56b. When the flush panel 62b. is bent inwardly about folding line 61b, retaining panels 64b, 66 respectively abut the adjacent containers C and form a pair of gussets 64b, 66b. The upper gussets 54b, 64b secure to the top of the containers C by the rear end. The lower gussets 56b, 66b secure the bottom part of the containers C at the rear end.

Figures 7-9 are perspective views of the carrier package 150 erected. In Figure 7, the carrier package 150 rests on its bottom panel 125. In Figure 8, the carrier package 150 rests on its first side panel 50 with dispensing feature 70 facing upwards. Dispensing panel 70 is defined by dispenser contour 100. containers C are held by gussets64a, 66a, 54a, 56a by the front end, and gussets64b, 66b, 54b, 56b by the rear end.

A representative method of opening the dispensing feature 70 will now be discussed with reference to Figures 10-12. In Figure 10, the carrier package 150 rests on the first side panel50. A user begins to open the dispensing feature 70 by pulling the traction projection74 and the extension traction projection 72 outward. Figure 11 illustrates the dispensing characteristic 70 being completely removed with the containers C retained within the carrier package 150.

According to one aspect of the present invention, the carrier package 150 may be opened to allow dispensing of the individual containers in a controlled mode. In addition, because the conveyor is wrapped tightly around the containers, the packaging allows for efficient use of transport, storage, and display space.

Figure 13 is a plan view of a blanket 208 used to form a carrier package according to a second embodiment of the present invention. The second embodiment of the present invention is the same as the first embodiment of the present invention except for the indicated variations which will be apparent to those ordinarily reversed in the art in view of this disclosure. The dispensing panel of the second embodiment of the present invention is different from the dispensing panel in the first embodiment of the present invention. As shown in Figure 13, dispensing panel 270 has traction projection 274 but does not include extension traction projection 72 (Figure 1). The traction projection 274 is defined by a portion of the cutting line 275 and the hinge-curved line 277. Referring to Figure 13, in addition to opening 80, there are two additional openings 80a, 80b. The openings 80a, 80b are each shown to be removably obstructed by a tab, but the openings as well as the tabs covering them are optional.

Figure 14 is a plan view of a blanket 408 used to form a wrap-around carrier package 550 (shown in Figures 15-18) according to a third embodiment of the present invention. Blanking 408 of the third embodiment is identical to Blanking 8 of the first embodiment, which is illustrated in Figure 1, except for the indicated variations and variations that will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of this disclosure. Some of the characteristics of the third modality which have some general similarity to, or are identical to, characteristics of the first modality are respectively identified with the same reference numbers except that four hundred were added to the third reference numerals concerned.

The locking system of the third embodiment of the present invention is different from the locking system of the first embodiment of the present invention. In a related note, and for example, conveyor 550 formed from blanket 408 includes spacer guards 128a, 128b (Figures 16 and 17) which serve to additionally retain containers C within conveyor 550.

As shown in Figure 14, blanket 408 comprises a first or internal bottom panel 430 that can be folded to a first side panel 50 on a fold line 33, a top panel 20 that can be folded to the first side panel 50 on a line. folding 25, a second side panel 60 is foldably connected to the top panel 20 in a fold line 29, and a second or external bottom panel 440 is able to fold in to the second side panel 60 in a fold line 45.

Inner bottom panel 430 includes cutouts forming primary female locking edges 438a, 438b, 438c, which are adapted to engage primary male locking projections 448a, 448b, 448c, respectively over outer bottom panel 440. Deep inner panel 430 also includes slots 432a, 432b, 432c adapted to respectively receive secondary male locking tabs 442a, 442b, 442c extending from the outer bottom panel 440. The outer bottom panel 440 includes a fold line 447 that is interrupted by the slots that define the primary male projections of. locking 448a, 448b, 448c. Secondary male locking tabs 442a, 442b, 442c are connected along the interrupted folding line 447 and each tab includes an intermediate folding line 443a-c.

Primary female locking edges 438a near the front end of blanket 408 and primary locking edges 438b near the rear end of blanket 408 respectively have tabs 120a and 120b associated with them. Tabs 120a and 120b are separated from inner bottom panel 430 by cutting lines 127a and 127b, respectively, and are foldably connected to inner panel 430 in folding lines 121a and 121b, respectively. In tab 120a, two additional folding lines 123a and 125a converge into a slot 113a, generally forming a triangle with folding line 121a. On tab 120b, two additional folding lines 123b and 125b converge into slot 113b, generally forming a triangle with the folding line 121b. Male locking tab 442a has two asymmetrical edges 112a and114a. Locking tab 442b has two asymmetrical edges 112b and 114b.

When the conveyor 550 is erected, the tabs 120a, 120b are folded in such a way that each of them engages a respective outer pair of the containers C, and at least the locking tabs 442a, 442b are folded about ninety degrees about their folding lines. 443a, 443b such that the locking tabs 442a, 442b respectively extend between adjacent containers. Each of the tabs 120a, 120b will respectively engage lower portions of two adjacent cans, as illustrated in at least Figures 16 and 17. Typically, locking tab 442c is also folded about ninety degrees about its folding line 443c such that locking tab 442c extends between the inner pair of adjacent containers C. The erected conveyor 550 is kept partially closed by the flange 114b of the locking male flap 442b engaging the bottom inner panel 430 near a curved end portion of the slit 432b, the edges 115a, 115b of the locking male flange 442 respectively engaging the inner flange. 430 near the opposite curved end portions of slot 432c, and locking tongue 114aaba 442a engaging deep inner panel 430 near an end portion of slot 432. Edges 112a and 112b respectively of locking tabs 442a, 442b, respectively, engage with slots 113a and 113b of tabs 120a, 120b for tabbed firm in their upright positions and thereby form spacer protectors 128a (shown in Figures 16 and 18) and 128b (shown in Figure 17) respectively. The edges 110a and 112b of the locking tabs 442a, 442b may be at least one shape of a hook to improve their respective tabs supports 120a, 120b in their upright positions to thereby form the tabs 128a, 128b.

Figure 15 is a bottom plan view of a carrier package 550 raised from blanket408. The outer bottom panel 440 engages the inner bottom panel 430 to form a bottom panel 525. Edging the spacer protectors 128a and 128b leaves openings 88a and 88b respectively in the bottom panel 525.

Folding lines 443a, 443b, 443c are aligned with slots 432a, 432b, 432c to facilitate closing male flaps 442a, 442b, 442c to be upright or substantially perpendicular to bottom panel 525.

Figures 16 and 17 illustrate opposite ends of the carrier package 550 having protector tabs 128a and 128b, respectively. The tabs 128a and 128b in the carrier package 550 additionally retain containers C such that containers C can be dispensed in a controlled manner.

Figure 18 illustrates the carrier package 550 in its dispensing configuration. As shown in Figure 18, the edge 112a of the raised locking tab 442a extends into the slot 113a to engage and secure the tab 12.0a to thereby form the separating guard 128a. This arrangement illustrated in Figure 18 is representative of the manner in which the edge 112b of the erect male locking tab 442b engages with respect to the slots 113b in the tab 120b to form the separating guard 128b.

Figure 19 is a plan view of a blanket 608 used to form an enveloping carrier package 750 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention. The fourth embodiment of the present invention is the same as the first embodiment of the present invention, except for the noted variations and variations which will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of disclosure. Some aspects of the fourth modality which have some general similarity to, or are identical to, features of the first modality are respectively identified with the same reference numbers except that six hundred have been added to the selected reference numerals of the fourth modality.

The fourth embodiment of the present invention has cutting lines 23 and 43, respectively, on top panel 20 and bottom panel 40 of blanket 608, to define inwardly pressing projections 24 and 44. Carrier 750 formed from blanket 608 included projections to be pressed inwards 24 and 44 because they additionally retain the containers C within the conveyor 750.

According to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, the cut lines 23 and 43 do not extend all the way to the rear edge of the blanket608. That is, the opposite ends of each of the cutting lines 23 and 43 terminate near, yet far from, the rear edge of the blanket 608. According to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, fold lines 131, 133 extend respectively from opposite ends of the cutting line 23 to the trailing edge of blanket 608, and folding lines 135 and 137 extend respectively from the opposite ends of cutting line 43 to rear edge of the blanket 60.8. Recessed projection 24 is connected as a fold-up to top panel 20 on folding lines 131 and 133. Recessed projection 44 is connected to a foldable outer panel 40 on folding lines 135 and 137.

Figure 20 illustrates the two flush projections 24 and 44 which respectively hold the top and bottom portions of the containers C. Figure 21 is a rear view of a raised carrier package 750 showing two flush projections 24 and 44. Figure 22 illustrates carrier package 750 which rests on its first side panel 50, such that the flush projections 44 on the bottom panel 40 are seen. Figure 23 illustrates carrier packaging 750 after the dispensing feature 70 (see Figures 19, 21 and 22) has been removed.

Figure 24 is a plan view of a blanket 808 used to form a wrap-around carrier package 950 according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention. The fifth embodiment of the present invention is similar to the first embodiment of the present invention, except for the perceived variations and variations which will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art of such disclosure. Some of the features of that modality which have some general similarity to, or are identical to, features of the first embodiment are respectively identified with the same reference numbers except that eight hundred were added to select reference numbers of the fifth embodiment.

The fifth embodiment of the present invention includes a gusset 90. More specifically, the conveyor 950 formed from the blanket 808 includes the gusset 90 which folds downwardly to further retain the containers C inside the conveyor 950.

Blanking 808 comprises a first or bottom inner panel 30 foldably connected to a first side panel 50 on a fold line 33, a top panel 820 possibly folding to a first side panel 50 on fold line 25, a second side panel 60 can be flexibly connected to the top panel 820 in a fold line 29, and a second or outer bottom panel 40 can be flexibly connected to the second side panel 60 in a fold line 45. The top panel 820 has cantununctions. defined by fold lines 59a, 63a, 859b and 863b, respectively. A portion of the top panel 820 defined by the area between fold lines 859b and 863b is separated from the top panel 820 by means of a cut line 27 and forms the downwardly folding gusset 90. According to the fifth embodiment of the present invention, The cutting line 27 is a slot in the top panel 820 that extends continuously between the fold lines 25, 29 whereby the top panel 8.20 is flexibly connected to the side panels 50, 60.

A first recessed back panel 852b is pivotally connected to the rear end first side panel 50 at fold line 551b.

A second recessed back panel 862b is foldably connected to the rear end of the second side panel 60 in a fold line 661b.

The area between the first recessed back panel 852b and the down-folding gusset 90 is divided into two foldable connected portions92 and 94 along a fold line 91. Part 92 is foldable connected to the first recessed back panel 852b in a fold line 857b.Part 94 is possible to be connected to the fold down gusset 90 in the fold line 859. Similarly, the area between the gusset folding below 90 and the second rear panel 862b is divided into two reciprocating foldable portions 96 and 98 along a fold line 97. The portion 96 is foldably connected to the 90 fold fold in the fold line 863b. connected to the second recessed back panel 862 in a fold line 865b.

Section 884d is formed in an area that is generally between the first recessed rear panel852b, panels 92, 94 and the first side panel 50. The cutout 884f is formed in an area that is generally between the second recessed rear panel 862b, panels 96, 98 and the second side panel 60. In addition, the indentations 84a-c, and, g, h are respectively formed between retaining panel and associated side panel.

As part of lifting the carrier package 950 from the blanket 808, the recessed panels 852b, 862b are respectively recessed inwardly around the fold lines 551b, 661a. As part of this process. The folding occurs respectively along the folding lines 857b, 91, 859b, 863b, 97,865b such that the downward folding 90 and the portions 92, 94, 96, 98 become arranged as shown in Figures 25-27.

Figure 25 is a rear view of the carrier package 950 raised from the blanket 808 showing the folding down gusset 90. Figure 26 is a perspective rear view of the carrier packaging 950 showing the folding gusset 90. The folding gusset for Lower 90 travels along the length of the container tops C and thereby additionally retains the C containers. In addition, the downward folding gusset 90 as a unique design feature can be used to display information. Figure 27 is a top view of the carrier package 950 raised resting on its first side panel, and this view illustrates that the downward fold 90 functions to at least partially retain the containers C (see Figure 27) in the carrier package 950 upon removal. the dispensing feature 70 (e.g., Figures 24 and 27). Referring to Figure 26, the downwardly folding gusset 90 may also be bent inwards such that the outwardly facing side of the gusset 90 shown in Figure 26 abuts the containers C.

In the summary and generally described, Figures 1-12 illustrate a first aspect of the present invention which relates to the dispensing characteristic 70. Figure 13 illustrates a second aspect of the present invention, wherein the traction projection of the dispensing characteristic does not have a projection. of traction in extension. Figures 14-18 illustrate a third aspect of the present invention, where alternative types of locks are used to additionally form protector tabs. Figures 19-23 illustrate a fourth aspect of the present invention where projections to be pressed as a portion of the rear ends of the top panel and the bottom outer panel are used to additionally secure the containers within the carrier packages. Figures 24-27 illustrate a fifth aspect of the present invention where a low-folding gusset is used to further secure the containers within the carrier package and as a place for displaying information. While specific examples of the aspect of the present invention are identified in the foregoing, it is to be understood that there are other aspects of the present invention. In addition, these and other aspects of the present invention may be combined into various combinations to create other blankets and packages that are within the scope of the present invention. For example, a blanket utilizing latches disclosed on the blanket 408 (Figure 14) may be combined with the blanket dispensing feature208 (Figure 13) and may also have the downward folding characteristic of the blanket 808 (Figure 24), with rest of the characteristics being the same as nablanqueta 8 (Figure 1). As another example, a blank utilizing the gusset feature that folds down under blanket 808 (Figure 24) can be combined with a flush-in projection on the bottom outer panel with blanket 608 (Figure 19), with the remainder being the same as on the blanket 8.

It is also understood that while only representative types of locking systems are discussed in the specification, the inner bottom panel and the outer bottom panel may be locked together using other known locking systems. While plurality of cutouts, panels, gussets, fold lines, tabs, slits, cuts, or openings may appear identical in size in the accompanying drawings, it is to be understood that the sizes of cutouts, panels, gussets, folding lines, tabs, slits, cuts, or openings may vary.

In the above embodiments, the carrier packages are shown as accommodating beverage containers. Other types of containers, however, may be accommodated within a carrier package according to the present invention. The dimensions of the blanket 8 may also be changed, for example, to accommodate various container shapes. In addition, various container numbers C may be accommodated in a carrier package in accordance with the principles of the present invention, for example by adjusting the size of the tray 8. For example, the top panel 20 and the first and second bottom panel 50, 60 may can be enlarged or reduced in order to accommodate more or less C containers. In such an embodiment, a carrier can be constructed to accommodate four containers arranged in two columns and two rows (2x2). In another embodiment, a carrier may be constructed that accommodates containers arranged in two columns and four rows (2x4).

In a preferred embodiment, a carrier may be constructed that accommodates six containers arranged in two columns and three rows (2x3).

Blankets according to the present invention may be, for example, formed from coated paper and similar materials. For example, the inner and / or outer sides of the blankets may be coated with a clay coating. The clay coating can then be printed on its surface from product, advertising, price coding, and other information or images. The blankets can then be coated with a varnish to protect any information printed on the blankets. The blankets may also be coated with, for example, a moisture barrier layer on either or both sides of the blankets.

According to representative embodiments, blankets can be constructed of cardboard of a calibretal that is heavier and stiffer than the usual paper. The blankets may also be constructed of other materials, such as cardboard, rigid paper, or any other material which has properties suitable for allowing the carrier package to function at least in the general manner as described above. Blankets may also be laminated to, or coated with, one or more sheet material on selected panels or panel sections. Also, according to the first embodiment, the carrier may be constructed from a blanket which occupies less area than conventional conveyors, and the blanket can be safely balanced with similar blankets during production.

In accordance with representative embodiments of the present invention, a folding line may be any as of the type of line arranged, although not necessarily straight, a form of fragility that facilitates folding along its length; and a tear line may be any of the kind of line arranged, though not necessarily straight, a form of fragility that facilitates tearing along its length. More specifically, but not for the purpose of narrowing the scope of the present invention, conventional folding lines include: a fold, as formed by folding; a marking line, such as formed with a blind marking knife, or the like, which creates a compressed portion of the material along the desired line of brittleness; a crack that extends partially into the material along the desired line of fragility, and / or a series of separate slits that partially extend inward and / or completely through the material along the desired line of fragility; or combinations of these characteristics. More specifically, but not for the purposes of narrowing the scope of the present invention, conventional tear lines include: a slit that extends partially into the material along the desired fragility line, and / or a series of separate slits that partially extend inward and / or completely through the material along the desired line of fragility, or various combinations of these characteristics.

As a more specific example, a conventional tear line type is in the form of a series of separate defenses extending completely through the material, with adjacent slits being slightly separated such that an incision (e.g., a small piece similar to a bridge of the material) is defined between adjacent slots to typically temporarily connect material along the tear line extension. The incisions are broken during tearing along the tear line. The incisions are typically a relatively small percentage of the tear line, and alternatively, the incisions may be omitted from or torn into a tear line such that the tear line is a continuous line of cut. That is, it is within the scope of the present invention for each of the tear lines to be replaced with a continuous slot, or the like.

It will be understood by those of ordinary skill in the art that while the present invention has been discussed above with reference to representative embodiments, various additions, modifications, and alterations may be made thereto without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the following claims.

Claims (38)

CARRIER PACKAGING, characterized in that it comprises: a carrier comprising a top panel, a first side panel adjacent to the top panel, a second side panel adjacent to the top panel and disposed on one side of the carrier packaging opposite the first side panel, an adjacent bottom panel at each of the first and second side panels and the top panel, a first upper gusset that at least partially closes an upper part of a first carrier end, a first lower gusset that closes at least partially a lower part of the first carrier end, a second gusset upper part that closes at least partially an upper part of a second end of the conveyor, a second lower gusset that closes at least partially a lower part of the second end of the conveyor, and a dispensing contour extending less partially along the extension of at least one. panel selected from the group consisting of side panels and top panel, with the dispenser contour defining a dispenser tab that is at least partially removable from a remaining carrier such that a dispenser aperture is defined by the remaining carrier in response to the dispenser tab that was at least one. less partially removed from the carrier; A plurality of containers are located within the conveyor, where the dispenser flap is configured such that when the dispenser flap is at least partially removed such that the dispenser opening is defined through the conveyor, the containers may be dispensed through a dispenser opening in the conveyor. Conveyor package according to claim 1, characterized in that the dispensing contour comprises at least one tear line extending at least partially through at least one panel. Conveyor package according to claim 1, characterized in that the dispensing contour extends at least partially along the length of one of the side panels and the top panel. Conveyor packaging according to claim 1, further comprising a retaining panel, wherein the conveyor includes first and second opposite ends which are each open, the retaining panel extending completely along the extension of the first end, and the dispensing tab. is adjacent to the second end. Conveyor packaging according to claim 1, further comprising a retaining tab which is not in common or other contact with the first and second panels and extending downwardly from the top panel to partially obstruct an open end of the conveyor. . Conveyor packaging according to claim 1, further comprising a retaining tab which is not in common or other contact with the first and second side panels and extending upwards from the top panel to partially obstruct an open end of the carrier. . 7. BLANKET TO BE RIGID IN THE FORM OF AN INVOLVING CARRIER PACKAGING, THE BLANK is characterized by: a top panel, a first foldable connected side panel that is opposite the first side panel and is foldably connected to the top panel; a first bottom panel connected to a foldable mode to the first side panel; It is a second foldable bottom panel connected to the second side panel, where the first bottom panel and the second bottom panel are to be secured together when the blanket is erected in the form of a wrap-around carrier packaging, where a dispensing contour extends at least partially. along the length of at least two panels selected from the group consisting of side panels and the top panel, with the dispensing contour defining a dispensing tab to be at least partially removable from a remaining shelf. Blanket according to claim 7, characterized in that the dispensing contour comprises at least a tear line extending at least partially along the length of at least two panels. Blanket according to claim 7, characterized in that the dispensing contour extends at least partially along the length of each side panel and top panel. Blanking according to claim 7, characterized in that the first bottom panel includes fastening characteristics for operatively interacting with the fastening characteristics of the second bottom panel to fasten the first and second bottom panels together when the blanking is erected on the back. shape of the wrap around carrier. Blanking according to Claim 10, characterized in that the fastening characteristics of the first bottom panel include at least one locking tab, and the fastening characteristics of the second bottom panel include at least one opening for at least partially retaining the flap. locking. Blanking according to claim 11, characterized in that it further comprises at least one retaining tab in the second bottom panel, wherein the retaining tab is to be held in a configuration raised by the locking tab when the carrier is erected from the blanking. Blanket according to claim 7, characterized in that it further comprises a recessed projection defined by at least one cut in a rear end of the top panel. Blanket according to claim 7, characterized in that it further comprises a recessed projection defined by at least one cut in a rear end of the top panel. Blanket according to claim 7, characterized in that it comprises: a first recessed front panel connected to a front end of the first side panel, a first recessed rear panel connected to a rear end of the first side panel, a second recessed front panel connected to a a front end of the second side panel; a second recessed back panel connected to a rear end of the second side panel; a first retaining front panel pivotally connected between the first recessed front panel and a truncated front corner of the first bottom panel; a first retaining rear panelconnectably connected between the first recessed rear panel and a truncated right-hand corner of the first deep panel, a second retaining front panelconnectably connected between the first recessed front panel and a truncated left front corner of the panel a second rear retaining panel, which can be folded between the first recessed rear panel and a truncated left top corner of the top panel, a third front retaining panel, which can be folded between the second recessed front panel and a front corner truncated right of the top panel; a third rear retaining panel, which can be folded between the second recessed back panel and a truncated right top of the top panel; a fourth retaining front panel, which can be folded between the second recessed front panel; inlay and a truncated left cantofrontal of the second deep panel; and a fourth retaining rear panel, which can be folded in between the second recessed rear panel and a left rear corner of the second bottom panel. Blanking according to Claim 15, characterized in that it further comprises a dividing fold line dividing the second retaining back panel in the form of two foldable connected portions along the dividing fold line. Blanket according to claim 15, characterized in that it further comprises a dividing fold line dividing the third retaining back panel in the form of two foldable connected portions along the dividing fold line. Blanket according to claim 15, characterized in that it further comprises a cutting line separating a portion of the top panel defined by the area between the second retaining rear panel and the third rear panel retaining from the top panel to form a portion. gusset folding down. 19. CARRIER PACKAGING, characterized in that it comprises: a carrier comprising a top panel, a first side panel adjacent to the top panel, a second side panel adjacent to the top panel and disposed on one side of the carrier packaging opposite the first side panel, an adjacent bottom panel. at each of the first and second side panels and opposite to the top panel, the bottom panel comprising a first bottom panel is joined by a second bottom panel by means of at least one of the first gusset gaps at least partially a first end of the carrier, at least a second gusset at least partially closing a second end of the carrier, and a dispensing contour extending at least partially along the length of at least one of the side panels and the top panel, with the dispensing contour defining a dispensed tab wherein it is at least partially removable from a remaining conveyor such that a dispensing aperture is defined by the remaining conveyor in response to the dispenser flap which has been at least partially removed from the carrier; A plurality of containers are located within the carrier, where the dispenser flap is configured such that when the dispenser flap is at least partially removed, the containers may be dispensed through the dispenser opening. Conveyor package according to claim 19, characterized in that the first and second bottom panels are additionally secured by means of male and female secondary secondary locking elements. Conveyor packaging according to claim 19, characterized in that the dispensing contour comprises at least one tear line. Conveyor package according to claim 21, characterized in that the dispensing contour extends at least partially along the length of each side panel and top panel. Carrier package according to claim 21, characterized in that it further comprises a retaining panel, wherein the carrier includes first and second opposite ends which are each open, the retaining panel extending completely along the extension of the first end, and the dispensing tab being adjacent to the second end. Carrier package according to claim 21, further comprising a retaining tab which is not in common or other contact with the first and second side panels and extending downwardly from the top panel to partially block an open end of the carrier. Carrier package according to claim 21, further comprising a retaining tab which is not in common or other contact with the first and second side panels and extending upwardly from the bottom panel to partially block an open end of the carrier. Carrier packaging, characterized in that it comprises: a carrier comprising a top panel, a first side panel adjacent to the top panel, a second side panel adjacent to the top panel and disposed on one side of the carrier packaging opposite the first side panel, a bottom panel. adjacent to each of the first and second side panels and the top panel, the bottom panel comprising a first bottom panel is joined by a second bottom panel by means of at least one female primary and at least one first gusset that closes at least one. partially a first end of the carrier, at least a second gusset that at least partially closes a second end of the carrier, and a retaining panel, where the carrier includes first and second opposite ends which and each is open, and the retaining panel extends completely along the extension of the first end; a plurality of containers located within the container. Carrier packaging according to Claim 26, characterized in that the first and second bottom panels are additionally secured by the male secondary and female secondary locking elements. Carrier package, characterized in that it comprises: a conveyor comprising a top panel, a first side panel adjacent to the top panel, a second side panel adjacent to the top panel and arranged on one side of the carrier packaging opposite the first side panel, a bottom panel. adjacent to each of the first and second side panels and the opposite top panel, the bottom panel comprising a first bottom panel is joined by a second bottom panel by means of at least one female primary and at least one first gusset that closes at least one. partially a first end of the carrier, at least a second gusset that closes at least partially a second end of the carrier, a retaining tab that is not in contact with either of the first and second side panels and extends downwardly from the top panel to partially obstruct an open end of the carrier; a plurality of containers located within the container. Carrier packaging according to Claim 28, characterized in that the first and second bottom panels are additionally secured by means of male secondary and female secondary locking elements. Carrier packaging, characterized in that it comprises: a carrier comprising a top panel, a first side panel adjacent to the top panel, a second side panel adjacent to the top panel and disposed on one side of the carrier packaging opposite the first side panel, a bottom panel. adjacent to each of the first and second side panels and the top panel, the bottom panel comprising a first bottom panel is joined by a second bottom panel by means of at least one female primary and at least one first gusset that closes at least one. partially a first end of the carrier, at least a second gusset that closes at least partially a second end of the carrier, a retaining tab that is not in contact with either of the first and second side panels and extends upwardly from the bottom panel to partially obstruct an open end of the carrier; a plurality of containers located within the container. Carrier packaging according to Claim 30, characterized in that the first and second bottom panels are additionally secured by means of male secondary and female secondary locking elements. 32. Carrier Packing, characterized in that it comprises: a carrier comprising a top panel, a first side panel adjacent to the top panel, a second side panel adjacent to the top panel and arranged on one side of the carrier packaging opposite the first side panel, a bottom panel. adjacent each of the first and second side panels and the top panel, the bottom panel comprising a first bottom panel joined to a second bottom panel, and a dispensing contour extending less partially along the length of at least one panel selected from there. of the group consisting of side panels and top panel, with the dispensing contour defining a dispensing tab that is at least partially removable from a remaining carrier such that a dispensing opening is defined by the remaining carrier in response to the dispensing tab that has been at least partially removed from the present. the carrier; A plurality of containers are located within the conveyor, where the dispenser flap is configured such that when the dispenser flap is at least partially removed such that the dispenser opening is defined through the conveyor, the containers may be dispensed through a dispenser opening in the conveyor. 33. Carrier packaging according to claim 32, characterized in that the first and second bottom panels are secured by means of male primary and female primary interlocking elements. Conveyor packaging according to claim 33, characterized in that the first and second bottom panels are additionally secured by means of male and female secondary secondary locking elements. Conveyor packaging according to any one of claims 32 to 34, characterized in that the dispensing contour extends at least partially along the extension of the side panels and the detopic panel. Conveyor packaging according to any one of claims 32 to 35, further comprising a retaining panel, wherein the carrier includes first and second opposite ends which are each open, the retaining panel extending completely along the extension of the first end, and the dispenser flap is adjacent to the second end. Carrier package according to any one of claims 32 to 35, characterized in that it further comprises a retaining tab which is not in contact with one or the other of the first and second side panels and extends downwardly from the top panel to partially obstruct one end. of open conveyor. Carrier package according to any one of claims 32 to 34, characterized in that it further comprises a retaining tab which does not contact one of the first and second side panels and extends upwardly from the bottom panel to partially obstruct one end. opening the carrier.