ES2794803T3 - Packaging system and starting parts for it - Google Patents

Abstract

A container (94, 194, 294, 394, 494, 594, 694) comprising at least a first front basket (92, 192, 292, 392, 492, 590, 692a) and a second outer basket (90, 390, 490, 592, 690), the or each of the at least one inner basket having a first tubular shaft, the second outer basket having a second tubular shaft, and the second outer basket being arranged, at least in part, in the exterior of the first interior basket, such that the first and second tubular axes are substantially perpendicular, the container comprising a group of articles (B), wherein the, or each at least one, first interior basket (92, 192, 292 , 392, 492, 590, 692a) is of the wraparound type and comprises: a top panel (20, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, 620, 720), first and second side panels (16, 116, 216, 316 , 416, 516, 616, 716; 24, 124, 224, 324, 424, 524, 624, 724), a bottom wall (12, 112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612, 712; 28, 128, 228, 328, 428, 528, 628, 728) and two opposite ends, and n where the first tubular shaft extends between the two opposite ends; wherein the second outer basket (90, 390, 490, 592, 690) is of the wraparound type and comprises: a top panel (19, 319, 419, 519, 619, 719), first and second side panels (15, 315 , 415, 515, 615; 23, 323, 423, 523, 623), a bottom wall (13, 313, 413, 513, 613; 25, 325, 425, 525, 625) and two opposite open ends, where the second tubular shaft extends between the two opposite open ends; wherein the first inner basket (92, 192, 292, 392, 492, 590, 692a) is wrapped around the group of articles (B), wherein the second outer basket (90, 390, 490, 592, 690) is wrapped around the first inner basket (92, 192, 292, 392, 492, 590, 692a) and the group of articles (B), wherein the second outer basket (90, 390, 490, 592, 690) comprises the minus one locking tab (M3, M33, M43, M53, M63; M4, M54, M64) and where the first inner basket comprises an opening (R1 / R2, R11 / R12, R21 / R22, R31 / R32, R41 , R42, A55, A65, A75; A2, A54, A64, A74), the first and second baskets (92, 192, 292, 392, 492, 590, 692a; 90, 390, 490, 592, 690) being configured so that when the container is formed, the locking tab (M3, M33, M43, M53, M63; M4, M54, M64) of the second outer basket (90, 390, 490, 592, 690) is received in said opening (R1 / R2, R11 / R12, R21 / R22, R31 / R32, R41 / R42, A55, A65, A75; A2, A54, A64, A74) of the first inner basket (92, 19 2, 292, 392, 492, 590, 692a) for the connection of the first inner basket (92, 192, 292, 393, 492, 590, 629a) and the second outer basket (90, 390, 490, 592, 690 ) together, where the bottom wall (12/28, 112/128, 212/228, 312/328, 412/428, 512/528, 612/628, 712/728) of the first inner basket (92, 192 , 292, 392, 492, 590, 692a) is formed by a first lower panel (12, 112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612, 712) and a second lower panel (28, 128, 228, 328, 428 , 528, 628, 728), characterized in that the first and second lower panels are arranged in at least a partial overlapping relationship and where the opening (R1 / R2, R11 / R12, R21 / R22, R31 / R32, R41 / R42, A55, A65, A75; A2, A54, A64, A74) is defined in part by a first cutout (R1, R11, R21, R31, R41, A55, A65, A75) punched out from the first bottom panel (12, 112, 212, 312, 412 , 512, 612, 712) and a second cutout (R2, R12, R22, R32, R42, A54, A64, A74) stamped from the second bottom panel (28, 128, 228, 328, 428, 528, 628, 728).

Description

DESCRIPTION

Packaging system and starting parts for it

Field of the invention

The present invention relates to consumer packages comprising at least two wrap-around style baskets and more specifically, but not exclusively, to a package comprising at least two wrap-around style baskets oriented substantially perpendicularly, such that the package completed comprises four end walls.

Background of the invention

In the field of packaging it is often required to provide consumers with a package comprising multiple containers of primary products. Such multiple packages are desirable for transportation and distribution and for the display of promotional information. Wrap-around style baskets are known in which a blank is wrapped around a group of items to secure the group for easy transport, re-shelving, and sale. Such blanks may be wrapped over the top of the group of articles, or such blanks may comprise openings through which the necks of the articles pass when the blank is wrapped around the group. Two side panels extend along two sides of the group of items and a composite bottom wall is typically formed by locking two bottom panels together, in a tensioned fashion, so that the wrapped blank holds the items tightly in place. group.

Wrap-around type baskets are typically formed with only two sides and this results in a reduction in the costs of the baskets due to the reduced amount of material required. A disadvantage of this, however, is that two ends of the item group are exposed, less protected, and less "billboard" area available for printing and display of labeling, advertising, and other sales indicators. .

An additional advantage of wrap-around type baskets is that the assembly of the baskets can be automated at a high speed, because there is no requirement for significant manipulation of the blank or group of articles. However, disadvantageously, the wrap-around type structure relies on the tight fit of the blank around the group of articles to maintain structural integrity. This means that as soon as the consumer removes an item from the group, the "tight fit" and thus the structural integrity of the package are compromised. As a consequence, the useful life of the wrap-around-type basket is typically limited until such time as an item is removed, at which point the rest of the items in the group become more difficult to handle.

For cost and environmental considerations, it is still preferable if such basket and containers are formed from as small a material as possible and as little waste as possible of the materials from which they are formed occurs. Another consideration is the strength of the container and its suitability for holding and transporting large weights of items. One more consideration is the contribution that the basket makes to the appearance and total value of the packaged goods, particularly in relation to its branding and its ability to stand out on a display shelf and attract consumers to buy. grouped items.

US 2,828,009 issued to André describes a container for cans and has a cardboard structure that encloses and holds a plurality of groups of separately packaged cans. The enclosures for the separately packaged groups work in conjunction with a means to hold them together.

The present invention seeks to provide an improvement in the field of packaging, more specifically in wrap-around type packaging, by providing a container comprising at least two wrap-around-type baskets, which wrap-around-type baskets are oriented substantially perpendicular to each other, so so that the finished package comprises four side walls. The at least two wrap-around-type baskets may comprise cooperative features; for example, the baskets can be locked to each other.

Compendium of the invention

According to a first aspect of the present invention there is provided a container comprising at least a first inner basket and a second outer basket, the or each of the at least one first inner basket having a first tubular shaft, the second basket having outside a second tubular shaft, and the second outer basket being arranged, at least in part, outside the first inner basket, such that the first and second tubular axes are substantially perpendicular, the package further comprising a group of articles , wherein the or each at least one first inner basket is of the wraparound type and comprises: an upper panel, first and second side panels, a lower wall and two opposite open ends, wherein the first tubular shaft extends between the two opposite open ends; wherein the second outer basket is of the wrap-around type and comprises: an upper panel, first and second side panels, a lower wall and two open ends opposite, wherein the second tubular shaft extends between the two opposite open ends; wherein the first basket is wrapped around the group of articles, wherein the second outer basket is wrapped around the first preceding basket and the group of articles, wherein the second outer basket comprises at least one locking tab and wherein the The first inner basket comprises an opening, the first and second baskets being configured such that when the container is formed, the locking tab of the second outer basket is received in said opening of the first inner basket to connect the first inner basket together. and the second inner basket, wherein the lower wall of the first inner basket is formed by a first lower panel and a second lower panel, characterized in that the first and second lower panels are arranged in at least a partial overlapping relationship, and wherein the opening is defined in part by a first cutout from the first bottom panel and a second cutout from pull the second bottom panel.

Optionally, the second outer basket is formed from a material selected from the group comprising: cardboard, card stock, coated cardboard, plastic material and polymeric substances.

Brief description of the drawings

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

Figure 1 is a top plan view of a first inner wrap-type blank according to a first embodiment of the invention for use with a second wrap-type blank, such as, but not limited to, blank of Figure 2;

Figure 2 is a top plan view of a second wrap-type blank in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention for use with the first wrap-type blank of Figure 1; Figure 3 is a top perspective view of a package comprising a group of items wrapped within a composite basket formed from the first blank of Figure 1 and the second blank of Figure 2;

Figure 4 is an enlarged view of part of the container of Figure 3;

Figure 5 is a top perspective view of the container of Figure 3, wherein two items have been removed from the container and still the structural integrity of the composite basket formed from the first and second type blanks. envelope is not significantly compromised;

Figure 6 is a top plan view of a first wrap-type interior blank according to a second embodiment of the invention for use with a second exterior wrap-type blank, such as, but not limited to, the blank of Figure 2;

Figure 7 is a top perspective view of the wrap-around blank of Figure 6 in one form assembled as a wrap-around basket holding a group of six items;

Figure 8 is a top perspective view of a package comprising a group of items wrapped within a composite basket formed from the first blank of Figure 6 and the second dispenser member of Figure 2;

Figure 9 is a top perspective view of a first wrap-type interior blank according to a third embodiment of the invention for use with a second exterior wrap-type blank, such as, but not limited to, the blank of Figure 2;

Figure 10 is a top perspective view of a package comprising a group of items wrapped within a composite basket formed from the first blank of Figure 9 and the second blank of Figure 2;

Figure 11 is a top perspective view of the package of Figure 10, wherein two items have been removed from the package and still the structural integrity of the composite basket, formed from the first interior and second exterior blanks. wrap-around type of Figures 9 and 2, is not significantly compromised;

Figure 12 is an enlarged view of part of the container of Figure 11;

Figure 13 is a top plan view of a second wrap-type outer blank according to a fourth embodiment of the invention for use with the first wrap-type inner blank of Figure 14;

Figure 14 is a top plan view of the first wrap-type inner blank according to a fourth embodiment of the invention for use with a second wrap-type outer blank, such as, but not limited to, the blank of Figure 13;

Figure 15 is a top perspective view of a package comprising a group of items wrapped within a composite basket formed from the first blank of Figure 14 and the second blank of Figure 13;

Figure 16 is an interior view of part of the lower structure of the container of Figure 15, where part of a lower wall composed of a first inner basket of the wrap-around type formed from the first inner blank of Figure 14 It is shown locked in a bottom wall composed of a second wrap-around type outer basket formed from the second outer blank of Figure 13.

Figure 17 is a top plan view of a second wrap-type outer blank in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention for use with the first wrap-type inner blank of Figure 18;

Figure 18 is a top plan view of a first wrap-type inner blank according to a fifth embodiment of the invention for use with the second wrap-type outer blank, such as, but not limited to, the blank of Figure 17;

Figure 19 is a top perspective view of a package comprising a group of items wrapped within a composite basket formed from the first blank of Figure 18 and the second blank of Figure 17;

Figure 20 is a top plan view of a first wrap-type inner blank according to a sixth embodiment of the invention for use with a second wrap-type outer blank, such as, but not limited to, the blank of Figure 21;

Figure 21 is a top plan view of a second wrap-type outer blank according to a sixth embodiment of the invention for use with the first wrap-type inner blank of Figure 20;

Figure 22 is a top perspective view of a package comprising a group of items wrapped within a composite basket formed from the first blank of Figure 20 and the second blank of Figure 21;

Figure 23 is an enlarged view of part of the container of Figure 22;

Figure 24 is a top plan view of a first wrap-type inner blank according to a seventh embodiment of the invention for use with a second wrap-type outer blank, such as, but not limited to, the blank of Figure 25;

Figure 25 is a top plan view of a second wrap-type exterior blank according to a seventh embodiment of the invention for use with two baskets formed from two first wrap-type interior blanks of Figure 24;

Figure 26 is a top perspective view of a package comprising a group of items wrapped within a composite basket formed from the first blank of Figure 24 and the second blank of Figure 25;

Figure 27 is an enlarged view of part of the container of Figure 26;

FIG. 28 is a top plan view of a first wrap-type inner blank according to an eighth embodiment of the invention for use with the second wrap-type outer blank of various embodiments of the invention; and

Figure 29 is a top perspective view of the wrap-around blank of Figure 28 in an assembled form as a wrap-around basket holding a group of six items.

Detailed Description of Exemplary Embodiments of the Present Invention

Detailed descriptions of specific embodiments of the package, blanks, and baskets are described herein. It will be understood that the described embodiments are only examples of the way in which certain aspects of the invention can be implemented and do not represent an exhaustive list of all the ways in which the invention can be carried out. As used herein, the term "exemplary" is used extensively to refer to embodiments that serve as illustrations, samples, models, or patterns. Indeed, it will be understood that the packages, blanks and baskets described herein can be practiced in various and alternative ways. Figures are not necessarily to scale and some features may be exaggerated or minimized to show detail of particular components. Well known components, materials or methods are not necessarily described in great detail to avoid obscuring the present disclosure. Any structural details and Specific functionalities described herein are not to be construed as limiting, but only as a basis for the claims and as a representative basis for teaching those skilled in the art to variously employ the invention.

In the embodiments detailed herein, the terms "carton" and "basket" refer, for the non-limiting purpose of illustrating the various features of the invention, to a container for coupling, enclosing, housing, carrying, and / or dispense items, such as primary product containers. It is contemplated that the teachings of the invention may be applied to various product containers, which may or may not be conical and / or cylindrical. Examples of product containers that can be used include bottles (eg, metal, glass, or plastic bottles), cans, (eg, aluminum cans), jars, bags, packages, and the like.

The baskets and packages shown herein are formed from a suitable substrate sheet. It is to be understood that, as used herein, the term "suitable substrate" includes all forms of foldable sheet material such as cardboard, corrugated cardboard, card stock, plastic, combinations thereof, and Similar.

In the various embodiments, the blanks are shown configured to form a carton or basket for wrapping an optional array of proposed items. In a first illustrated embodiment, the arrangement is a 3 x 2 matrix and the articles are bottles. The blanks may alternatively be configured to form a basket for packaging other types, number and size of articles and / or for packaging articles in a different arrangement or configuration.

Referring now to Figure 1, there is shown a top plan view of a first interior blank 10 in accordance with a first embodiment of the invention. The first interior blank is optionally a wrap-around style blank 10. The first interior blank 10 is suitable to be paired with a second exterior blank, such as, but not limited to, the second exterior blank. 11 shown in Figure 2.

The first interior blank 10 comprises a series of main panels that form the major walls of the first interior basket 92 once the first interior blank 10 is assembled. The series of main panels includes: a first bottom panel 12, a first bevel panel 14, a first side panel 16, a second bevel panel 18, a top panel 20, a third bevel panel 22, a second side panel 24, a fourth bevel panel 26 and a second bottom panel 28. The main panels 12, 14, 16, 18, 20, 22, 24, 26, 28 are connected with a hinge line with the next in series along the fold lines 30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 80, 82 and 84.

Additionally, the first and second end panels 50, 52 are connected to the top panel 20 by fold lines 60, 64 respectively. To automatically hinge the first and second end panels 50, 52 into position when the blank 10 is assembled, four angle panels 54a, 54b, 54c, 54d and four strip panels 56a, 56b, 56c, 56d are connected with a hinge line between the first and second end panels 50, 52 and the first and second side panels 16, 24, respectively. As can be seen, each corner panel 54a, 54b, 54c, 54d is connected to a hinge line by a fold line 64a, 64b, 64c, 64d with the first or second side panel 16, 24; and each angle panel 54a, 54b, 54c, 54d is connected to a hinge line by a fold line 58a, 58b, 58c, 58d with an adjacent sheet panel 56a, 56b, 56c, 56d. Each sheet panel 56a, 56b, 56c, 56d is, in turn, connected by a hinge line to an adjacent first or second end panel 50, 52 along a fold line 57a, 57b, 57c, 57d. As described in more detail below, since the first and second side panels 16, 24 are folded relative to the top panel 20, the four angle panels 54a, 54b, 54c, 54d, and the four sheet panels 56a, 56b , 56c, 56d are bent and moved and cause the first and second end panels 50, 52 to also be bent relative to the top panel 20.

To facilitate mechanical interlocking of the first and second lower panels 12, 28, the first and second lower panels 12, 28 are provided with complementary locking means. Optionally, the illustrated complementary locking arrangement comprises two female tabs F1, F2 on the first bottom panel 12; and two male locking tabs M1, M2 on the second bottom panel 28.

Optional alignment openings A1, A3 are provided in the second lower panel 28. The alignment openings A1, A3 facilitate automated positioning of the second lower panel 28 relative to the first lower panel 12.

Optional Item Stub Attachment Features H1, H2, H3, H4 are arranged to engage and securely position the stub of an item. Each bead engagement feature H1, H2, H3, H4 is formed in part in a bevel panel 14, 26, in part in a bottom panel 12, 28, and in part in a side panel 16, 24. The presence of the H1, H2, H3, H4 heel coupling features is totally optional; and when arranged, the configuration of the bead engagement features H1, H2, H3, H4 can take many and varied forms. As such, the configuration of each bead engagement feature H1, H2, H3, H4 illustrated in Figure 1 is merely an example and is not intended to be limiting. Optionally, each of the four bead coupling features H1, H2, H3, H4 shown has the same configuration and therefore only one will be described.

The bead engagement feature H1 comprises the lower opening 40, a pair of inward foldable retaining tabs 46a, 44a, and an upper opening 42. The pair of inward foldable retaining tabs 46a, 44a is each bent connected to first bottom panel 12, first bevel panel 14, and first side panel 16 via arcuate fold lines 46, 44. Optionally each inwardly bendable retaining tab 46a, 44a it comprises an incision or cut through it to facilitate inward flexing when displaced during assembly of blank 10 around a group of articles.

The second and third bevel panels 18, 22 optionally comprise a weakened arrangement 68a, 72a, 70a adjacent to each most extreme opening 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d. Since the weakened arrangements 68a, 72a, 70a are optionally similar, only one is described. Aperture 2c is defined in part by a cut line that is collinear with fold line 38 and terminates at short, arcuate fold lines 4c and 4e respectively (see Figure 1). Adjacent to opening 2c extends a slit 72a from one edge of opening 2c below fold line 80. A first line of weakness 68a extends at an angle away from the joint of the cut line and the cut line. short bend, arched 4c toward, but not reaching, bend line 80. A second weakened line 70a extends at an angle away from the joint of the cut line and the short bend line, arched 4e toward, but without reaching, the fold line 80. The weakened arrangement 68a, 72a, 70a defines a tab 66a which can be moved out of the plane of the third bevel panel 22 (see Figure 4) once the first inner basket 92 is mounted. The four weakened arrangements can assist in the removal of an item B from the basket 92 when assembled.

The upper portion 20 comprises an article receiving arrangement that is defined by a series of movable flaps 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d, shaped to form four openings 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d in the shape of the blank. The movable flaps 20c, 20d are connected with a hinge line to the first and second adjacent end panels 50, 52 respectively by fold lines 60, 64. The movable flap 20d is connected to a hinge line by means of the fold lines short, arcuate 4a, 4c to the top panel 20. The movable flap 20c is hinged via the short, arched fold lines 4b, 4d to the top panel 20. The movable flaps 20a, 20b are connected with a hinge line each other along fold line 62; and each is connected with a hinge line to the top panel 20 along the short, arched fold lines 4h, 4g, 4e, 4f. The movable flaps 20d, 20a share a common cut line 66; and the movable flaps 20b, 20c share a common cut line 68.

To facilitate cooperation and locking together of the inner wrap-type basket 92 and the outer wrap-type basket 90, a mechanical interlock mechanism is provided. The mechanical interlock mechanism optionally comprises one or more locking openings in the inner wrap-type basket 92 and one or more corresponding and cooperating locking tabs disposed on the outer wrap-type basket 90. In the present embodiment, the blank 10 is optionally provided with a locking opening A2; and a pair of recesses R1, R2. The locking aperture A2 is formed in the second bottom panel 28. The aperture a 2 is sized and positioned to receive a locking tab from the wrap-around type outer basket 92. The first recess R1 is inserted from an edge of the first bottom panel 12; and the second recess R2 is inserted from an edge of the second bottom panel 28. The recesses R1, R2 are sized, positioned and arranged so that once the composite bottom wall structure 12/28 is formed, the recesses R1, R2 overlap to a sufficient extent that an additional opening or gap R1 / R2 is provided in the composite bottom wall structure 12/28, which additional opening or gap R1 / R2 is sized and positioned to receive a locking tab from the basket envelope-type exterior 92.

Returning to the construction of the first inner wrap-type basket 92 as illustrated in Figures 3, 4 and 5, the first inner basket 92 can be formed by a series of sequential bending operations on a straight line machine, so that the first inner basket 92 is not required to be rotated or inverted to complete its construction. The bending process is not limited to that described below and can be altered according to particular manufacturing requirements.

To prepare blank 10, each pair of inward bendable retaining tabs 46a, 44a of the bead engagement features H1, H2, H3, H4 is bent inward toward the adjacent first or fourth bevel panels. 14, 26.

The six B items are arranged in a 3 x 2 group that has two opposite ends (of three items) and two opposite sides (of two items). The top panel 20 is then aligned with the items B such that a top closure C, for example a crown closure, of each of the four items B on one side of the group of items is below one of the four openings. 2a, 2b, 2c, 2d. The blank 10 is then lowered and positioned over the tops of the articles B, so that an upper part C of the four articles B on one side of the group of articles B passes through one of the openings 2a, 2b , 2c, 2d. This action makes the movable flaps 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d fold upward, out of the plane of top panel 20, so that in two rows of three articles each sits within an elongated opening thus formed in top panel 20.

The second and third bevel panels 18, 22 are folded around the fold lines 36 and 38 respectively and the first and second side panels 16, 24 are folded around the fold lines 34 and 80 until the first and second panels The sides 16, 24 are each arranged along one side of the group of articles. As the first and second side walls 16, 24 are bent, the four angle panels 54a, 54b, 54c, 54d and the four sheet panels 56a, 56b, 56c, 56d automatically articulate the first and second end panels 50, 52, around fold lines 60, 64 respectively until first and second end panels 50, 52 are each disposed along one end of the group of articles.

The first bottom panel 12 and the first bevel panel 14 are then folded around the fold lines 30 and 32 until the first and second article bead engagement features H1, H2 are positioned around the beads of the B articles. along the side of the group and the first bottom panel 12 is disposed below part of the group of articles.

Similarly, the second bottom panel 28 and the fourth bevel panel 26 are folded around the fold lines 80 and 82 until the third and fourth bead engagement features H3, H4 are located around the bead stubs. the other two side items within the group. The second bottom panel 28 is then disposed under part of the group of articles until it partially overlaps the first bottom panel 12. The first and third openings A1, A3 (generally triangular shaped openings) within the second bottom panel 28 can be used through automated machining to ensure correct placement and relative alignment of the first and second bottom panels 12, 28.

Optionally, to form a bottom wall structure, the first and second bottom panels 12, 28 are mechanically locked together by piercing the first and second male tabs M1, M2 against the first and second female tabs F1, F2. This displaces the first and second female tabs F1, F2 and creates openings, through which the first and second male tabs M1, M2 are pierced. The shoulders that the first and second male tabs M1, M2 prevent the male locking tabs M1, M2 from coming back through the openings formed when the first and second female tabs F1, F2 are displaced. In this way, the first and second lower panels 12, 28 are mechanically locked together. The first and second lower panels 12, 28 are mechanically locked together so that the group of items B is tightly packed and held together in the basket 92. The ends of the group of items (not shown) are only partially covered by the first and second end panels 50, 52 but are otherwise exposed.

The inner wrap-type basket 92 formed from the blank 10 has a theoretical first tubular shaft that is defined to extend between the open ends of the basket 92, in other words, between the first end panel 50 and the second end panel. 52. The first theoretical tubular axis is parallel to the bottom wall structure 12/28.

The locking aperture A2 and further aperture or gap R1 / R2 formed from the overlapping recesses R1, ^r 2 are ready to receive a locking tab from the wrap-around type outer basket 90. The wrap-around type outer basket 90 it is compatible with the wrap-around type inner basket 92 and can take many different shapes. For example, the blank 11 shown in Figure 2 may be mounted in a suitable wrap-around type outer basket 90, it being recognized that the illustrative example provided is not limited to a particular or specific combination of the wrap-around type inner basket and the outer basket of the enveloping type.

In Figure 2 it can be seen that the blank 11 comprises a series of main papers that form the main walls of a second outer basket 92 once the second outer basket blank 11 is assembled. The series of main panels includes: a first bottom panel 25, a first side panel 23, a first bevel panel 21, an upper panel 19, a second bevel panel 17, a second side panel 15, a second bottom panel 13 The main panels 25, 23, 21, 19, 17, 15 and 13 are connected with a hinge line to the next in series along the following fold lines 37, 35, 33, 31, 29 and 27.

To facilitate mechanical interlocking of the first and second bottom panels 25, 13 of the wrap-around type outer basket 90 formed from the blank 11, the first and second bottom panels 25, 13 are provided with complementary locking means. Optionally, the illustrated complementary locking arrangement comprises two female tabs F3, F4 on the second bottom panel 13; and two male locking tabs M3, M4 on the first bottom panel 25.

The optional alignment apertures A4, A5, A6, A7, A8, A9 are arranged on the second bottom panel 13 and on the first bottom panel 25. The alignment apertures A4, A5, A6, A7, A8, A9 facilitate automated placement of the second lower panel 13 relative to the first lower panel 25.

The optional top item coupling features T1, T2 are arranged to securely engage and locate the top of the crown or closure "C" of an item B. Each item top coupling feature T1, T2 is formed in part on a bevel panel 21, 17 and partly on the upper panel 19. The presence of the coupling characteristics of the article T1, T2 is totally optional; and when arranged, the configuration of the upper coupling feature T1, T2 can take many and varied forms. As such, the configuration of each article upper coupling feature T1, T2 of Figure 2 is merely an example and is not limiting. Optionally, each of the article upper coupling features T1, T2 shown has the same configuration and therefore only one will be described.

The upper article engagement feature T1 comprises an upper opening 43 defined in part by a cutting edge 45 of the upper panel 19; a pair of outwardly movable, bendable retaining tabs 47a, 47b separated by a common cut line 51 and each connected with a hinge line to the first bevel panel 21 by means of fold lines 39a, 39b.

The blank 11 also comprises the transport feature that is structured and arranged to enable the user to comfortably and securely grip the outer basket 90 to carry and lift the container 94 (see Figure 3) formed from the Combination of the assembled blank 10, a group of articles B, and the assembled blank 11. The transport characteristic is symmetrical and therefore only one side will be described. A recessed region is defined in the top panel 19 and comprises a first tab 53a connected with a hinge line to a central tab 55a along an angled fold line 61a and a second tab 59a connected with a hinge line on the outer side of the central tab 55a along an angled fold line 63a. Center tab 55a is connected with a hinge line to top panel 19 along fold line 65a; and the first and second tabs 53a, 59a are separated from the top panel 19 by means of an optional cut line. In use, the center tab 55a can be displaced out of the plane of the top panel 19 when it is folded down around the fold line 65a. The first and second tabs 53a, 59a are also displaced out of the plane of the top panel 19 and bent down relative to the top panel 19 and slightly inward toward the center tab 55a. To carry the second wrap-around type outer basket 90 (once assembled) the user can grasp the top panel 19 using a punching action, pressing his thumb against the central tab 55a on one side of the carry feature and pressing any one or more, or all of its index, middle and ring fingers against the other central tabs 55b and adjacent the first and second tabs 53b, 59b.

Returning to the construction of the second wrap-around type outer basket 90 as illustrated in Figures 3, 4 and 5, the second wrap-around type outer basket 90 can be formed by a series of sequential bending operations on a straight line machine. so that the second wrap-around type outer basket 90 is not required to be rotated or inverted to complete its construction. The bending process is not limited to that described below and can be altered according to particular manufacturing requirements.

The top panel 19 is aligned with the items within the first inner basket 92, such that a top closure C, for example a crown closure, of each of the items B is below the top panel 19. The blank 11 is then lowered and positioned over the tops of items B such that a top C of each item B comes into contact with a bottom side of top panel 19. The first and second bevel panels 21, 17 are folded around of fold lines 33 and 31 respectively and the first and second side panels 23, 15 are then folded around fold lines 35 and 29 until the first and second side panels 23, 15 are each arranged along a end of the item group. When the first and second bevel panels 21, 17 are bent, the upper article coupling features T1, T2 are tightly fixed around the tops of the most central articles in the group. In this way, the second outer basket 90 comprises an article coupling structure T1, T2 and an upper part C of at least one of the articles B of the group is received in the first inner basket 92, at least in part, within the upper article coupling structure T1, T2 of the second outer tubular structure 90.

The second bottom panel 13 is folded around the fold line 27 until the second bottom panel 13 is disposed under part of the bottom frame 12/28 of the wrap-around type inner basket 92. Similarly, the first Bottom panel 25 is then folded around fold line 37 until first bottom panel 25 is disposed under part of second bottom panel 13 and part of bottom wall structure 12/28 of wrap-around inner basket 92. Alignment openings A4, A5, A6, A7, A8, A9 (generally triangular shaped openings) within second bottom panel 13 and first bottom panel 25 can be used by automatic machinery to ensure correct placement and relative alignment of the first and second lower panels 25, 13.

Optionally, to form a bottom wall structure of the wrap-around type outer basket 90, the first and second bottom panels 25, 13 are mechanically locked together by piercing the first and second male tabs M3, M4 against the first and second female tabs F3, F4. This displaces the first and second female tabs F3, F4 and creates openings, through which the first and second male tabs M3, M4 are pierced.

Advantageously, the male tabs M3, M4 of the mechanical locking mechanism of the second wrap-around type outer basket 90 are aligned with the locking opening A2 and the gap R1 / R2 of the first inner basket 92. When the male tabs M3 , M4 are pierced through the first and second female tabs F3, F4 of the second lower panel 13 of the outer wrap-around basket 90, the male tabs M3, M4 are also pierced through one of the locking opening A2 or the R1 / R2 gap of the inner basket 92. The shoulders of the first and second male tabs M3, M4 are pushed past the outer bottom wall structure and through and into the inner region of the first inner wrap-type basket 92 This prevents the male locking tabs M3, M4 from accidentally returning through the locking opening A2; the R1 / R2 gap of the first inner basket 92; and the openings formed when the first and second female tabs F1, F2 are displaced. In this manner, the first and second lower panels 25, 13 are mechanically locked together to form a lower wall structure composed of the second outer basket 90. The wrap-around inner basket 92 and the group of six items B are securely packed. tightened and further secured together in wrap-around type outer basket 90. The ends of the group of items (not shown) are now more fully covered by the first and second side panels and bevel panels 23/21, 17/15 of the second wrap-around type outer basket 90. In addition, the lower composite wall structure of the second outer basket 90 is mechanically locked with the lower wall structure composed of the first inner basket 92.

The envelope-type outer basket 90 formed from the blank 11 has a second theoretical tubular axis that is defined as extending between the open ends of the basket 90. The second theoretical tubular axis is parallel to the lower wall structure 25/13 .

As such, a container 94 is formed comprising a first inner basket 92 and a second outer basket 90 with the second outer basket 90 disposed, at least in part, on the outermost part of the first inner basket 92. The tubular shaft of the first basket The interior 92 is perpendicular to the second tubular axis of the second exterior basket 90. The two sets of transport features 53a / 55a / 59a and 53b / 55b / 59b, together provide a transport handle structure and individually provide a spacer between items. more adjacent centers B3, B4 of the article group.

The transport handle structure comprises, as described, one or more bendable tabs and optionally, in this arrangement, each set of carrying features comprises three tabs: the first tab 53a, 53b, the central tab 55a, 55b, and the second tab 59a, 59b. In Figure 5, the transport handle structure is in use, and only part of the transport control structure is thus visible. In use, the bendable tabs 53a / 55a / 59a, 53b / 55b / 59b have all been bent out of the plane of the top panel 19; and the first and second tabs 53a, 53b, and 59a, 59b have also been bent inward, out of the plane of the center tab 55a, 55b and toward the center tab 55a, 55b. The central tab 55a, 55b, together with the adjacent and angled first and second tabs 53a, 53b, 59a, 59b, form a generally "U" shaped structure that is sized and arranged to fit between the N necks of the two most central items, that is, between bottles B3 and B4 (see Figure 5).

Lar two folded carrying handle structures 53a / 55a / 59a, 53b / 55b / 59b are arranged on both sides and partially between the most central articles B3, B4. They can be gripped in a pierced-type grip, optionally between the user's thumb, which could come into contact with the center tab 55a, and the user's index and middle fingers, which could come into contact with the other center tab 55b.

In this manner, the carrying handle features 53a / 55a / 59a, 53b / 55b / 59b each provide, when folded down within the container 94, a spacer that is located between adjacent items B3, B4 and a carrying handle for the entire container 94.

The container 94 (see Figure 3) encloses at least a lower part of the group of articles due to the provision of the side walls 23/21, 15/17, of the second outer basket 90 around each of the sides of the group of articles and the provision of the side panels 16, 24 of the first inner basket 92 around each of the ends of the group of articles. To remove an item, the shoulder S of a more lateral bottle B can be pulled against the weakened arrangement 68a, 70a, 72a and pulled past the movable flaps 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d until a sufficiently dimensioned gap "O" is created. such that the bottle B can be lifted out of the wrap-around-type inner and outer baskets 90, 92 of the container 94 (see Figure 4).

Once the items have been removed (see Figure 5) the container 94 may comprise empty openings "O" where a bottle B was located, the container 94 still maintains much of its structural integrity. This is somewhat different than typical wrap-around type baskets, after removal of one or more items, the wrap-around type basket typically collapses. In the present arrangement, container 94 maintains structural integrity, even after removal of two or more or all of the bottles B5, B6 or shown. This is in part due to a keel structure or shoring structure formed by the combination of the displaceable tabs 20a, 20b, the fold line 62 and the short arched fold lines 4h, 4g, 4e, 4f at both ends of the same that engage the movable tabs 20a, 20b to the second and third bevel panels 18, 22 respectively.

This keel structure can provide bracing through the first inner basket 92 which helps preserve the structural rigidity of the first inner basket 92 even after the items have been removed.

This keel structure is optionally centrally arranged and as shown in Figure 3 has an inverted "V" shaped cross section. The keel structure can shore up or provide support between the first and second side panels 16, 24.

Referring now to Figures 6, 7, and 8, a second embodiment of the present invention is shown showing an alternate inner blank 110 that can be combined with a second outer blank to construct a different package 194. For example, but not limited to, the first inner blank 110 may be combined with the second outer blank 11 of Figure 2, as illustrated in Figures 7 and 8. In the second illustrated embodiment, serial numbers have been used. like reference, when possible, to designate like parts, while adding the prefix "100" to indicate that these features belong to the second embodiment. The second embodiment shares many common features with the first embodiment and therefore only the differences from the embodiments illustrated in Figures 1 to 5 will be described in greater detail.

The first interior blank 110 comprises a series of main panels that form the major walls of a first interior basket 192 once the first interior blank 110 is assembled. The series of main panels include: a first bottom panel 112, a first bevel panel 114, a first side panel 116, a top panel 120, a second side panel 124, a fourth bevel panel 126, and a second bottom panel 128. Main panels 112, 114, 116, 120, 124, 126, 128 are connected with one hinge line to the next one in series along fold lines 130, 132, 136, 180, 182, and 184.

Again, the first and second end panels 150, 152 are connected to the top panel 120 by fold lines 160, 164, and in this arrangement the first and second end panels 150, 152 are connected to the first and second side panels 116, 124 by means of four bracket panels 154a, 154b, 154c, 154d and four sheet panels 156a, 156b, 156c, 156d which are hingedly connected by fold lines 164a, 164b, 164c, 164d; 158a, 158b, 158c, 158d; and 157a, 157b, 157c, 157d respectively. The four bracket panels 154a, 154b, 154c, 154d and the four sheet panels 156a, 156b, 156c, 156d automatically hinge the first and second end panels 150, 152 into a configuration position when the blank 110 is assembled.

To facilitate mechanical interlocking of the first and second lower panels 112, 128, the first and second lower panels 112, 128 are provided with complementary locking means. Optionally, the illustrated complementary locking arrangement comprises two female tabs F11, F12 on the first bottom panel 112; and two male locking tabs M11, M12 on the second bottom panel 128.

Optional alignment apertures A11, A13 are provided in the second bottom panel 128 to facilitate automatic positioning of the second bottom panel 128 relative to the first bottom panel 112.

Optional article bead attachment features H11, H12, H13, H14 are also arranged and have a similar structure to the already described bead attachment features H1, H2, H3, H4.

Top panel 120 comprises a different article receiving arrangement compared to blank 10 of Figure 1. The article receiving arrangement is defined by a series of transversely arranged offset flaps 120, 120a, 120b, 120c, 120d, 120 running between end panels 150, 152 of blank 110. The six movable flaps 120, 120a, 120b, 120c, 120d, 120 are shaped to form six openings 102a, 102b, 102c, 102d, 102e, 102f in blank form. A first portion of the top panel 120 that is connected with a hinge line to the first side panel 116 along the fold line 136 forms a displaceable first flap having a shaped cutting edge defined by the cutting line 166. The Cut line 166 also defines a shaped cut edge of a second movable flap 120a. The second movable flap 120a is connected with a hinge line to the top panel 120 by means of a transversely extending fold line 162a and arcuate short fold lines 104a, 104b, 104c, 104d, which extend from the fold line extending transversely 162a to adjacent first and / or second end panels 150, 152 respectively.

A third movable flap 120b is also connected with a hinge line to the top panel 120 via the transversely extending fold line 162a and the arcuate short fold lines 104a, 104b, 104c, 104d, which extend from the line transversely extending fold 162a to the adjacent first and / or second end panel 150, 152 respectively. The third movable flap 120b has a shaped cutting edge defined by the cutting line 168. The cutting line 168 also defines a shaped cutting edge of a fourth movable flap 120c.

The fourth movable flap 120c is also connected with a hinge line to the top panel 120 by means of a further transversely extending fold line 162b and the arcuate short fold lines 104e, 104f, 104g, 104h, extending from the transversely extending fold line 162b to the adjacent first and / or second end panel 150, 152 respectively. The fourth movable flap 120d has a shaped cutting edge defined by the cutting line 169. The cutting line 169 also defines a shaped cutting edge of a fifth sliding flap 120, which is part of the top panel 120 and is connected to a hinge line to second side panel 124 along fold line 180.

To facilitate cooperation and joint locking of the inner wrap-around basket 192 formed from the blank 110 (see Figure 7) with an outer wrap-around basket 90, a mechanical interlocking mechanism is provided. The mechanical interlock mechanism optionally comprises one or more locking apertures provided in the inner wrap-around basket 192 and the cooperating locking tabs M3, M4 arranged on the outer wrap-around basket 90. In the present embodiment, the part of Item 110 is again optionally provided with a blocking aperture A12; and a pair of similarly shaped recesses R11, R12. The locking aperture A12 is formed in the second bottom panel 128 and is substantially octagonal in shape. The opening A12 is sized and positioned to receive a locking tab M3, M4 from the wrap-around type outer basket 90.

In the first embodiment of Figure 1, a first recess R11 that is inserted from an edge of the first bottom panel 112; and a second recess R12 that is inserted from one edge of the second bottom panel 128 are dimensioned and arranged so that once the bottom wall structure 112/128 is formed, the recesses R11, R12 overlap to a sufficient extent to that a further opening or gap R11 / R12 is provided in the lower wall structure 112/128, which further opening or gap R11 / R12 is dimensioned and positioned to receive a locking tab M3, M4 from the wrap-around type outer basket 90 .

The construction of the first wraparound-type inner basket 192 (see Figure 7) which is similar to that already described in relation to the first wraparound-type inner basket 92, although, when the top panel 120 is lowered and placed on the parts upper parts of articles B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B6, one upper part C of each article B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B6, passes through one of the openings 102a, 102c, 102e, 102b , 102d, 102f. This action causes the movable flaps 120, 120a, 120b, 120c, 120d, 120 each to fold upwards around the fold lines 136, 162a, 162b and 180 respectively so that three transverse rows, each comprising two articles B1 / B4, B2 / B5, B3 / B6, are arranged within a transverse aperture 102a / 102b, 102c / 102d, 102e / 103f formed therefrom.

The first and second side panels 116, 124 are then folded around fold lines 136 and 180 until they are each disposed along one side of the group of articles. Again, this action automatically articulates the first and second end panels 150, 152, around fold lines 160, 164 respectively until the first and second end panels 150, 152 are each disposed along part of one end. item group (see Figure 7).

The first bottom panel 112 and the first bevel panel 114 are folded as described above, with the first and second article bead engagement features H11, H12 being positioned around the heels of two articles B4, B1 along on a first side B1 / B4 of the group of articles and with the first bottom panel 112 being disposed below part of the group of articles.

Similarly, the second bottom panel 128 and the fourth bevel panel 126 are bent as described above with the third and fourth bead engagement features H13, H14 being positioned around the beads of two items B6, B3 along the way. along a second side B3 / B6 of the group of articles and with the second bottom panel 128 being disposed below part of the group of articles and in partial overlapping relationship with the first bottom panel 112. The mechanical interlock mechanism M11, M12, F11, F12 can then be operated to secure the first and second bottom panels 112, 128 together as previously described.

In this manner, the first and second bottom panels 112, 128 are mechanically locked together so that the group of items B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B6 is tightly packed and held together within the first basket 192. The ends B1 / B2 / B3, B4 / B5 / B6 of the group of articles (see Figure 7) are only partially covered by the first and second end panels 150, 152 but are otherwise exposed.

A keel structure or shoring structure is formed by the combination of the movable tabs 120a, 120b, the fold line 162a, and the short arched fold lines 104a, 104c, 104b, 104d at both ends thereof which connect with the movable tabs 120a, 120b of the top panel 120. The first keel structure forms a shoring between the first row of articles B1 / B4 and the second row of articles B2 / B5.

A second keel structure or shoring structure is formed by the combination of the movable tabs 120c, 120d, the fold line 162b, and the short arched fold lines 104e, 104g, 104f, 104h at both ends thereof connecting the movable tabs 120c, 120d to top panel 120. The The second keel structure forms a shoring between the second row of articles B2 / B5 and a third row of articles B3 / B6.

The keel structure can provide structural bracing through the first inner basket 92 which helps to preserve the structural rigidity of the first inner basket 92 even after the items have been removed. Optionally the keel structure has a substantially inverted "V" shaped cross section. The keel structure can shore up or provide support between the first and second side panels 15, 23 of the second outer basket 90.

The locking aperture A12 and the further aperture or gap R11 / R12 formed from the overlapping recesses R11, R12 are ready to receive a locking tab M3, M4 from the envelope-type outer basket 90.

The wrap-around type outer basket 90 compatible with the wrap-around type inner basket 92 can take many different forms. For example, the blank 11 shown in Figure 2 may be mounted to one such suitable wrap-around type outer basket 90, it being recognized that the illustrative example does not provide limitation to a particular or specific combination of the wrap-type inner basket and wrap-around type outer basket.

The second wrap-around type outer basket 90 may be mounted around the inner basket 92 and the group of items B1-B6 shown in Figure 7, in the same manner as previously described, with the top panel 19 being positioned over the upper parts of the articles B1-B6 and such that the first and second bevel panels 21, 17 and the first and second side panels 23, 15 are bent until the upper coupling features of articles T1, T2 are fixed so tight around the tops of the most central items B2, B5 the group.

The second lower panel 13 is folded around the fold line 27 until the second lower panel 13 is disposed under part of the lower wall structure 112/128 of the wrap-around type inner basket 192. Similarly, the first Bottom panel 25 is then folded around fold line 37 until first bottom panel 25 is disposed under part of second bottom panel 13 and part of bottom wall structure 112/128 of wrap-around inner basket 192.

Again, to form a bottom wall structure of the wrap-around type outer basket 90, the first and second bottom panels 25, 13 are mechanically locked together by piercing the first and second male tabs M3, M4 against the first and second female tabs F1 , F2. This displaces the first and second female tabs F1, F2 and creates openings, through which the first and second male tabs M3, M4 are pierced.

Advantageously, the female tabs M3, M4 of the mechanical locking mechanism of the second wrap-around type outer basket 90 are aligned with the lock aperture A12 and the gap R11 / R12 of the first inner basket 192. When the male tabs M3 , M4 are drilled through the first and second female tabs F1, F2 of the second lower panel 13 of the wrap-around type outer basket 90, the male tabs M3, M4 are also drilled through one of the blocking aperture A12 and the R11 / R12 separation of the inner basket 192.

The first and second lower panels 25, 13 are mechanically locked together to form a lower wall structure composed of the second outer basket 90. The inner wrap-around basket 192 and the group of six items B1-B6 are tightly packed and further fastened together in the wrap-around type outer basket 90. The ends of item group B1 / B2 / B3, B4 / B5 / B6 are now more completely covered by the first and second side and bezel panels 23/21, 17/15 of the second wrap-around type outer basket 90. In addition, the composite bottom wall structure 25/13 of the second outer basket 90 is mechanically locked to the composite bottom wall structure 112/128 of the first inner basket 192. As before, the wrap-around type outer basket 90 formed from the blank 11 has a second theoretical tubular axis that is defined to extend between the open ends of the basket 90. The second axis Theoretical tubular is parallel to the lower wall structure 112/128.

As such, a container 194 is formed comprising a first inner basket 192 and a second outer basket 90 with the second outer basket 90 disposed, at least in part, on the outside of the first inner basket 192. The tubular shaft of the first Inner basket 192 is perpendicular to the second tubular axis of the second outer basket 90.

As shown in Figure 8, the two sets of carry features 53a / 55a / 59a and 53b / 55b / 59b together provide a carry handle structure and individually provide a spacer between the adjacent most central items B2, B5 of the group Of articles.

Once the items have been removed (not shown) the container 194 may again comprise empty openings "O" where a bottle B1-B6 was located, the container 194 still retains much of its structural integrity. This is partly due to the transverse keel structure or the bracing structure formed by the combination of the displaceable tabs 120a, 120b, 120c, 120d, the fold lines 162a, 162b and the short arched fold lines 104a, 104b, 104c, 104d, 104e, 104f, 104g, 104h at both ends thereof which engage the movable tabs 120a, 120b, 120c, 120d to the end panels 150, 152 respectively.

This keel structure can provide bracing through the first inner basket 192 which helps to preserve the structural rigidity of the first inner basket 192 even after the items B1-B6 have been removed. The keel structures are optionally centrally arranged and as shown in Figure 6 provide two transverse structures with inverted "V" shaped cross sections. The keel structures can buttress or provide support between the first and second side panels 116, 124. Referring now to Figures 9, 10, 11 and 12, another embodiment of the present invention is shown in which a piece of alternative inner blank 210 that can be combined with the second outer blank 11 of Figure 2 in order to construct a different package 294. In the third illustrated embodiment, like reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate equal parts, although adding the prefix "200" to indicate that these characteristics belong to the third embodiment. The third embodiment shares many common features with the first embodiment and therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 5 will be described in greater detail.

Referring now to FIG. 9, there is shown a top plan view of a first interior blank 210 in accordance with the third embodiment of the invention. The first interior blank 210 is also optionally a wrap-around style blank 210 and is suitable to be paired with a second exterior blank, such as, but not limited to, the second exterior blank 11 shown in FIG. Figure 2.

The first interior blank 210 again comprises a series of main panels that form the main walls of a first interior basket 292 shown in Figures 10, 11 and 12. The series of main panels includes: a first bottom panel 212, a first bevel panel 214, first side panel 216, top panel 220, second side panel 224, fourth bevel panel 226, and second bottom panel 228. Main panels 212, 214, 216, 220, 224, 226 , 228 are connected with a hinge line one to the next in series along fold lines 230, 232, 236, 280, 282 and 284.

The first interior blank 210 does not comprise second and third bevel panels on either side of the top panel 220, nor does it comprise any end panels. Similar to the first interior blank 10 of Figure 1, the first interior blank 210 does not comprise mechanical interlocking means for the first and second bottom panels 212, 228. Optionally, the illustrated complementary locking arrangement comprises two female tabs F21, F22 on the first bottom panel 212; and two male locking tabs M21, M22 on the second bottom panel 228.

The first inner blank 210 also optionally comprises alignment apertures A21, A23; optional article bead engagement features H21, H22, H23, H24 which function in the same manner as the bead engagement features H1, H2, H3, H4 of blank 10; and a pair of recesses R21, R22 which are arranged, as before, to facilitate co-operation and joint locking of the inner wrap-type basket 292 and the outer wrap-type basket 90.

Top panel 220, as shown in Figure 9, also comprises an article receiving arrangement that is also optionally defined by a series of four longitudinally extending displaceable flaps 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d. In this arrangement however, the four displaceable flaps 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d are shaped to form six blanks 202a, 202b, 202c, 202d, 202e, 202f. A common cutting line 266 separates the movable flaps 220a, 220b; and similarly, a common cut line 268 separates the movable flaps 220c, 220d. Common break lines 266, 268 are interrupted by openings 202a, 202b, 202c, 202d, 202e, 202f respectively. In other embodiments, the optional openings 202a, 202b, 202c, 202d, 202e, 202f may be omitted, however beneficially, they provide a clear indication for the alignment of top panel 220 with the item group. Additionally, the outermost displaceable flaps 220a and 220d are connected with a hinge line to the top panel 220 via the curved or arcuate fold lines 204a, 204c, 204b and 204d respectively. The curved fold lines 204a, 204c, 204b, and 204d are longer in length than the short arched fold lines 4a, 4b, 4c, 4d of the first embodiment. This can ensure that the outermost movable flaps 220a, 220d are attached to the top panels 220 by a sufficiently strong connection since there are no end panels in this arrangement.

Similarly, the more centered displaceable flaps 220b, 220c, which are also connected with one hinge line to the other along a common fold line 262, are connected with a hinge line. hinge to top panel 220 by means of long arched fold lines 204e, 204f, 204g, 204h.

In this embodiment, however, the movable flaps 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d are folded down out of the plane of the top panel 220. Optionally this can be achieved by pushing the bottoms of the bottles B1, B2, B3, B4, B5 , B6 on the top panel 220 which causes the flaps 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d to bend to create an opening for the two rows of the three bottles B1 / B2 / B3, B4 / B5 / B6.

To complete the construction of the first wraparound-type inner basket 292, the first and second side panels 216, 224 are then disposed along the sides B1 / B2, B3 / B6 of the group of articles. The first bottom panel 212 and the first bevel panel 214 are then bent until the first and second article bead engagement features H21, H22 are positioned around the heels of the two articles B3, B6 on one side of the group and then the second bottom panel 228 and the fourth bevel panel 226 are bent until the third and fourth bead engagement features H23, H24 are positioned around the heels of the two items B1, B2 on the other side of the item group . Then, to form a bottom wall structure, the first and second bottom panels 212, 228 are mechanically locked together by piercing the first and second male tabs M21, M22 against the first and second female tabs F21, F22.

Alternatively, the movable flaps 220a, 220b, 220c, 220d can be folded down out of the plane of the top panel 220 in a pre-assembly step, after which the open top panel 220 is positioned over the tops of the items. B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B6, and by relative movement of blank 210 and articles, blank 210 is then pushed down the necks of articles B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B6 and the construction of the blank 210 around the group of articles is completed as described above.

However formed, the wrap-around type inner basket 292 formed from the blank 210 has a first theoretical tubular axis that is defined as extending between the open ends of the basket 292, in other words, along a line that It runs through the middle of the most central articles B2, B5. The first theoretical tubular axis is parallel to the bottom wall structure 212/228.

The locking aperture A22 and the further aperture or gap R21 / R22 formed from the overlapping recesses R21, R22 are again ready to receive a locking tab from the wrap-around type outer basket 90.

The wrap-around type outer basket compatible with the wrap-type inner basket 292 can take many different forms. For example, the blank 11 shown in Figure 2 may be mounted to a wrap-around type outer basket 90, it being recognized that the illustrative example is not limited to a particular or specific combination of the wrap-around type inner basket and the basket. envelope-type exterior.

The wrap-around type outer basket 90 and its assembly need not be described again and in Figures 10 and 12 the container 294 can be seen. Once the items have been removed (see Figure 11 for a partially emptied container 294) , the container 294 may comprise two empty openings "O" where the bottles B1-B6 were located, yet the container 294 maintains much of its structural integrity. The container 294 again retains structural integrity, even after removal of two bottles B4, B1 shown, or more bottles. This is partly due to the keel structure or the shoring structure formed by the combination of the movable flaps 220b, 220c, the fold line 262 and the arcuate fold lines 204h, 204g, 204e, 204f at the ends of the themselves.

This keel structure can again provide bracing through the first inner basket 292 which helps to preserve the structural rigidity of the first inner basket 292 even after the items have been removed. This keel structure is optionally arranged centrally and as shown in Figure 11 has a substantially "V" shaped cross section. The keel structure may butt or provide support between the first and second side panels 216, 224.

Referring now to Figures 13 through 16, a further embodiment of the present invention is shown in which an inner blank 310 may be combined with a second outer blank 311 to construct an alternative package 394. In the fourth illustrated embodiment Like reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate like parts, while adding the prefix "300" to indicate that these features belong to the fourth embodiment. This embodiment shares many common features with the previous embodiments and therefore only the differences of the illustrated embodiments with respect to Figures 1 to 12 will be described in greater detail.

A first interior blank 310 is shown in Figure 14 comprising a series of main panels that form the major walls of the first interior basket 392 once the first interior blank 310 is assembled. The series of main panels includes: a first bottom panel 312, a first bevel panel 314, a first side panel 316, a top panel 320, a second side panel 324, a second bevel panel 326, and a second bottom panel 328. The main panels 312, 314, 316 are connected with a hinge line one to the next in series along the fold lines 330 and 332. The main panels 324, 326, 328 be connected with a hinge line one to the next in series along fold lines 382 and 384.

First side panel 316 is connected to top panel 320 by a plurality of fold lines 304a, 304b and parts on fold lines 373a, 373b. Top panel 320 is connected to second side panel 324 by a plurality of fold lines 304c, 304d and portions of fold lines 373c, 373d.

To facilitate mechanical interlocking of the first and second lower panels 312, 328, the first and second lower panels 312, 328 are provided with complementary locking means. Optionally, the complementary locking arrangement illustrated comprises two female tabs F31, F32 on the first bottom panel 312; and two male locking tabs M31, M32 on the second bottom panel 328.

Optional alignment openings A33, A35 are provided in the first lower panel 312. Optional alignment openings A31, A32 are provided in the second lower panel 328. The alignment openings A31, A32 facilitate automated location of the second lower panel 328 in relation to the first bottom panel 312. The alignment apertures A31, A32, A33, A35 are shaped and configured to allow movement of a machine component in two directions during assembly of the container 394.

A machine component may be inserted into alignment openings A31, A32, A33, A35 to engage the first and second bottom panels 312, 328 during mounting of the first lower basket 392 around a group of items B1, B2, B3, B4. The alignment openings A31, A32, A33, A35 can facilitate tightening of the first inner basket 392 around the group of articles B1, B2, B3, B4. The machine component can be coupled to the first and second bottom panels 312, 328 via a first lobe of the coupling openings A31, A32, A33, A35, the movement of the machine component in a direction substantially transverse to the tubular axis of the first inner basket 392 allows the degree of overlap between the first and second bottom panels 312, 328 to be adjusted.

A machine component may be inserted into alignment openings A31, A32, A33, A35 during assembly of the second outer basket 390 around the first inner basket 392 and the group of articles B1, B2, B3, B4. The alignment openings A31, A32, A33, A35 can facilitate or enable the tightening of the second outer basket 390 around the first inner basket 392 and the group of articles B1, B2, B3, B4. The machine component can pass through the first and second lower panels 312, 328, the alignment openings A31, A32, A33, A35 each comprise a second lobe arranged to facilitate or allow movement of the machine component in a substantially parallel to the tubular axis of the first inner basket 392 during the assembly of the second outer basket 390. The machine component can optionally engage with the first and second bottom panels 312, 328 of the first inner basket 392 when the second outer basket 390 is being mounted around it, to align the first inner basket 392 with respect to the second outer basket 390.

Optionally, alignment apertures A33, A35 are substantially heart-shaped, although other shapes comprising two or more lobes may be employed, for example, but not limited to, a kidney shape. The optional item stub attachment features H31, H32, H33, H34 are arranged to attach and secure the location of an item plank. Each bead engagement feature H31, H32, H33, H34 is formed in one of the bevel panels 314, 326. Optionally, each of the four bead engagement features shown has the same configuration and therefore only the bead engagement feature will be described. first H32 bead attachment feature.

And the first bead engaging feature H32 comprises a first bead receiving opening 340a. The first bead receiving opening 340a is substantially "W" shaped along a first edge and sides and is substantially "U" shaped along a second edge, the second edge defining a boundary between the first bottom panel 312 and the first bevel panel 314.

The blank 310 is optionally provided with a pair of recesses R31, R32. A first recess R31 is inserted from an edge of the first bottom panel 312; and a second recess R32 is inserted from one edge of the second bottom panel 328. Recesses R31, R32 are sized, positioned and arranged so that once the 312/328 composite bottom wall structure is formed, recesses R31, R32 overlap to a sufficient extent that an R31 / R32 gap or gap is provided in the 312/328 composite bottom wall structure, the R31 / R32 gap or gap is sized and positioned to receive an M33 locking tab from the outer basket of envelope type 390.

Top panel 320 comprises one or more article receiving openings 302a, 302b, 302c, 302d. Each article receiving opening 302a, 302b, 302c, 302d is configured to receive a neck portion of a respective one of articles B1, B2, B3, B4. The illustrated embodiment comprises four article receiving openings 302a, 302b, 302c, 302d, in alternative embodiments a single or a plurality of article receiving openings may be provided.

The first side panel 316 comprises a plurality of fold lines that facilitate folding of the first side wall around the first side of the group of items B1, B2, B3, B4.

A first fold line 368a may be provided, the first fold line 368a extending substantially between a first article receiving opening 302a and the first bead receiving opening 340a.

A second fold line 368b may be provided, the second fold line 368b extending substantially between a second article receiving opening 302b and a second bead receiving opening 340b in the first bevel panel 314.

A third fold line 372a may be provided; the third fold line 372a extends from the fold line 332 towards the top panel 320. Optionally, the third fold line 372a extends through a substantial portion of the first side panel 316, that is, more than 50 percent of the height of the first side panel 316. The third fold line 372a may extend into the first bevel panel 314. The third fold line 372a is optionally parallel to each of the first and second fold lines 368a, 368b. A fourth fold line 373a extends from a first side edge of the first side panel 316 to the second article receiving opening 302b.

A fifth fold line 373b extends from a second side edge of the first side panel 316 to the first article receiving opening 302a.

Fifth fold line 373b and fourth fold line 373a intersect each other and portions thereof define in part a first diamond-shaped panel portion stamped from first side panel 316. A sixth fold line 375a extends from a first side edge of the first side panel 316 to the center of the first side panel 316.

A seventh fold line 375b extends from a second side edge of first side panel 316 to the center of first side panel 316 such that it meets or intersects sixth fold line 375a. Parts of the sixth fold line 375a and the seventh fold line 375b define in part the first diamond-shaped panel portion.

A fold line extends through the first diamond-shaped panel portion from an vertex between the sixth fold line 375a and the seventh fold line 375b and a vertex between the fifth fold line 373b and the fourth fold line. folded 373a. The fold line can in some embodiments be a part of the third fold line 372a. The fold line can, in some embodiments, be collinear with the third fold line 372a.

Two substantially diamond shaped panel portions are defined in part by fold lines 373a, 373b, 375a, 375b, 304a, and 304b. A second diamond-shaped panel part is arranged adjacent to the first diamond-shaped panel part; the second diamond-shaped panel portion is interrupted or partly limited by the first article receiving opening 302a. The second diamond-shaped panel part and the first diamond-shaped panel part share a part of the fold line 373a in common. The first fold line 368a extends through the second part of the diamond-shaped panel from an apex, defined by the fold lines 375a, 373a, to the first article receiving opening 302a.

A third diamond-shaped panel part is disposed adjacent to the first diamond-shaped panel part; the third diamond-shaped panel portion is interrupted or partially limited by the second article receiving opening 302b. The third diamond-shaped panel part and the first diamond-shaped panel part share a fold line part 373b in common. The second fold line 368b extends through the third diamond shaped panel portion from an apex, defined by the fold lines 375b, 373b, to the second article receiving opening 302b.

A pair of divergently disposed fold lines 370a, 370b extend downwardly from the apex between the sixth fold line 375a and the seventh fold line 375b. A first 370a of the pair of divergently arranged fold lines 370a, 370b converges with the first fold line 368a. A second 370b of the pair of divergingly arranged fold lines 370a, 370b converges with the second fold line 368b.

The blank 310 may comprise additional fold lines; a fold line may extend from the first fold line 368a to an inner edge of the first bead engagement opening 340a; a fold line may extend from the second fold line 368b to an inner edge of the second bead engagement opening 340b; a fold line may extend from the first article receiving opening 302a to the first side edge of the first side panel 316 so as to define in part a triangular square panel with the fold line 304a; a fold line can be extending from the second article receiving opening 302b to the second side edge of the first side panel 316 to define in part a triangular square panel with the fold line 304b.

Second side panel 324 comprises a plurality of fold lines 368c, 368d, 372b, 370c, 370d, 373c, 373d, 375c, 375d that facilitate folding of second side wall 324 around a second side of group of articles B1, B2, B3, B4. The arrangement of said plurality of fold lines 368c, 368d, 372b, 370c, 370d, 373c, 373d, 375c, 375d is substantially similar to that described above in relation to the first side panel 316 and will not be described in more detail.

A second outer blank 311 shown in Figure 13 comprises a series of main panels that form the main walls of the first inner basket 392 once the second outer blank 311 is assembled. The series of main panels includes: a first lower panel 325, a first side panel 323, an upper panel 319, a second side panel 315, and a second lower panel 313. The main panels 325, 323 are connected with a hinge line. one to the next by the fold line 337. The main panels 315, 313 are connected with a hinge line one to the next by the fold line 327.

First side panel 323 is connected to top panel 319 by a plurality of fold lines 305a, 305b and portions of fold lines 383a, 383b. Top panel 319 is connected to second side panel 315 by a plurality of fold lines 305c, 305d and parts of fold lines 383c, 383d.

To facilitate mechanical interlocking of the first and second lower panels 325, 313, the first and second lower panels 325, 313 are provided with complementary locking means. Optionally, the illustrated complementary locking arrangement comprises a female tab F33 on the first bottom panel 325; and an M33 male locking tab on the second bottom panel 313.

The optional alignment apertures A37, A38 are arranged in the first lower panel 325. The optional alignment apertures A34, A36 are arranged in the second lower panel 313. The alignment apertures A37, A38, A34, A36 facilitate automated placement of the second bottom panel 313 relative to first bottom panel 325.

A machine component can be inserted into alignment openings A34, A36, A37, A38 to engage the first and second bottom panels 325, 313 during assembly of the second outer basket 390. Alignment openings A34, A36, A37 , A38 can facilitate tightening of the second outer basket 390 around the first inner basket 392 and the group of articles B1, B2, B3, B4. The machine component can be coupled to the first and second lower panels 312, 328, via the alignment openings A34, A36, A37, A38, the movement of the machine component in a direction substantially transverse to the tubular axis of the second basket Exterior 390 allows the degree of overlap between the first and second bottom panels 325, 313 to be adjusted.

Optionally, the alignment apertures A34, A36, A37, A38 are substantially triangular in shape, although other shapes can be used.

Top panel 319 comprises one or more article receiving openings 302e, 302f, 302g, 302h. Each article receiving opening 302e, 302f, 302g, 302h is configured to receive a neck portion of a respective one of articles B1, B2, B3, B4. Each of the article receiving openings 302e, 302f, 302g, 302h in the top panel 319 is configured to be arranged in vertical registration with a respective one of the article receiving openings 302a, 302b, 302c, 302d in the top panel. 320 of the first inner basket 392.

The illustrated embodiment comprises four article receiving openings 302e, 302f, 302g, 302h, in alternative embodiments a single or a plurality of article receiving openings may be provided. The first side panel 323 comprises a plurality of fold lines that facilitate folding of the side panel 323 around a third side of the group of items B1, B2, B3, B4.

A first fold line 378a may be provided, the first fold line 378a extends downward from a first article receiving opening 302e toward the first bottom panel 325.

A second fold line 378b may be provided, the second fold line 378b extends downward from a second article receiving opening 302f toward the first bottom panel 325.

A third fold line 382a may be provided; the third fold line 382a extends from the fold line 337 towards the top panel 319. Optionally, the third fold line 382a extends through a substantial portion of the first side panel 323, that is, more than 50 percent of the height of the first side panel 323. The third fold line 382a is optionally parallel to each of the first and second fold lines 378a, 378b.

A fourth fold line 383a extends from a first side edge of the first side panel 323 to a second article receiving opening 302f.

A fifth fold line 383b extends from a second side edge of the first side panel 323 to the first article receiving opening 302e.

The fifth fold line 383b and the fourth fold line 383a intersect each other and portions thereof define a diamond shaped panel portion stamped from the first side panel 323.

A sixth fold line 385a extends from the first side edge of the first side panel 323 to the center of the first side panel 323.

A seventh fold line 385b extends from a second side edge of first side panel 323 to the center of first side panel 323 to meet or intersect with sixth fold line 385a. Parts of the sixth fold line 385a and the seventh fold line 385b define a part of the diamond-shaped panel. A fold line extends through the diamond-shaped panel from an vertex between the sixth fold line 385a and the seventh fold line 385b and a vertex between the fifth fold line 383b and the fourth fold line 383a. The fold line can in some embodiments be a part of the third fold line 382a. The fold line can in some embodiments be collinear with the third fold line 382a.

A pair of divergently disposed fold lines 380a, 380b extend downwardly from the apex between the sixth fold line 385a and the seventh fold line 385b. A first 380a of the pair of divergently arranged fold lines 380a, 380b converges with the first fold line 378a. A second 380b of the pair of convergently arranged fold lines 380a, 380b converges with the second fold line 378b.

The second side panel 315 comprises a plurality of fold lines 378c, 378d, 382b, 380c, 380d, 383c, 383d, 385c, 385d that facilitate folding of the second side wall 315 around a second side of the group of articles B1, B2, B3, B4. The arrangement of said plurality of fold lines 378c, 378d, 382b, 380c, 380d, 383c, 383d, 385c, 385d is substantially similar to that described above in relation to first side panel 323 and will not be described in more detail.

Referring now to Figure 15 the first inner blank 310 and the second outer blank 311 form a container 394. Figure 15 illustrates the second side panel 324 of the first inner basket 392 and the second side panel 315 of the second outer basket 390.

An upper portion of the second side panel 324 of the first inner basket 392 is bent or deformed around the shoulders of the items B1, B2. The first diamond-shaped panel part is offset inwardly in a gap between the articles B1, B2, so that it forms a recessed panel part. The recessed panel portion forms a valley depression.

The second and third diamond shaped panel parts can be deformed around a respective one of the articles B1, B2 to form a close fit therewith.

The second and third diamond-shaped panel parts can be folded around the shoulder of a respective one of the items B1, B2 such that the second and third diamond-shaped panel parts are coplanar with the remainder of the second side panel 324.

An upper part of the second side panel 315 of the second outer basket 390 is bent or deformed around the shoulders of the articles B1, B3. The first diamond-shaped panel part is offset inwardly in a gap between the articles B1, B3, so that it forms a recessed panel part. The recessed panel portion forms a valley depression.

The second and third diamond-shaped panel portions of the second side panel 315 may be deformed around a respective one of the items B1, B3 to form a close fit therebetween.

The second and third diamond-shaped panel parts of the second side panel 315 can be folded around the shoulder of the respective one of the items B1, B3 so that the second and third diamond-shaped panel parts are not coplanar with the remainder of second side panel 315.

Figure 16 illustrates a portion of the composite bottom panel 312, 328; items B1, B2, B3, B4 have been withdrawn for illustrative purposes.

The male tab M32 has passed through the first bottom panel 312, whereby the female tab F32 was displaced out of the plane of the first bottom panel 312. The female tab F32 abuts against the male tab M32. The inherent elasticity of the material from which the blank 310 is formed elastically biases the female barb F32 against the male barb M32, so that it is clamped in a position dubbed. Male barb M31 and female barb F31 are arranged similarly but not visible in Figure 16.

The male tab M33 of the second outer basket 390 has passed through the first bottom panel 325 of the second outer basket 390. In doing so, the female tab F33 was displaced out of the plane of the first bottom panel 325. The female tab F33 abuts against M33 male tongue. The inherent elasticity of the material from which the blank 311 is made elastically biases the female tab F33 against the male tab M33, so that it is held in a bent position. The male and female tabs M33, F33 have also passed through the lower composite panel 312/328 of the first inner basket 392. The male and female tabs M33, F33 are received in the opening in the lower composite panel 312/328 formed by the recesses R31, R32. The M33 male barb may be substantially arrowhead shaped and comprises mating shoulders, the mating shoulders may be in locking engagement with the 312/328 composite bottom panel of the first inner basket 392 so as to lock the composite bottom panel 312/328 of the first inner basket 392 with the composite bottom panel 325/313 of the second outer basket 390.

Figure 16 also illustrates the relationship between the alignment apertures A31, A32, A33, A35 in the first inner basket 392 and the alignment apertures A34, A36, A37, A38 in the second outer basket 390.

The alignment openings A31, A32, A33, A35 in the first inner basket 392 allow a machine tool to pass through the composite bottom panel 325/313 of the second outer basket 390 and the composite bottom panel 312/328 of the first Inner basket 392. The alignment openings A31, A32, A33, A35 in the first inner basket 392 are shaped and / or dimensioned so that the machine tool when inserted is free to move the first and second lower panels 325, 313 of the second outer basket 390 with respect to each other.

Referring now to Figures 17 through 19, a further embodiment of the present invention is shown in which an inner blank 410 may be combined with a second outer blank 411 to construct an alternative container 494. In the fifth embodiment illustrated, like reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate like parts, while adding the prefix "400" to indicate that these features pertain to the fifth embodiment. This embodiment shares many common features with the previous embodiments and therefore only the differences of the illustrated embodiments with respect to Figures 1 to 16 will be described in greater detail.

Figure 18 illustrates a first interior blank 410 comprising a series of main panels that form the major walls of a first interior basket 492 once the first interior blank 410 is assembled. The series of main panels includes: a first bottom panel 412, a first bevel panel 414, a first side panel 416, a top panel 420, a second side panel 424, a second bevel panel 426, and a second bottom panel 428. The main panels 412, 414, 416 are connected with a hinge line one to the next in series by respective fold lines. The main panels 424, 426, 428 are connected with a hinge line one to the next in series by respective fold lines.

The first side panel 416 is connected to the top panel 420 by a plurality of fold lines 473a, 473b, 436a, 436b. Top panel 320 is connected to second side panel 324 by a plurality of fold lines 438a, 438b, 473c, 473d.

To facilitate mechanical interlocking of the first and second lower panels 412, 428, the first and second lower panels 412, 428 are provided with complementary locking means. Optionally, the illustrated complementary locking arrangement comprises two female tabs F41, F42 on the first bottom panel 412; and two male locking tabs M41, M42 on the second bottom panel 428.

Optional alignment openings A43, A45 are provided on first bottom panel 412. Optional alignment openings A41, A42 are provided on second bottom panel 428. Optional alignment openings A41, A42 facilitate automated placement of second bottom panel 428 with relative to the first bottom panel 412. The alignment openings A41, A42, A43, A45 are shaped and configured to allow movement of a machine component in two directions during assembly of the container 494.

Optionally, alignment apertures A43, A45 are substantially heart-shaped, although other shapes comprising two or more lobes may be employed, for example, but not limited to, a kidney shape. Optional Item Stub Attachment Features H41, H42, H43, H44 are arranged to engage and securely position the stub of an item. Each bead engagement feature H41, H42, H43, H44 is formed in one of the bevel panels 414, 426. Optionally, each of the four bead engagement features shown has the same configuration and therefore only the bead engagement will be described. H42 first bead attachment feature.

The first bead engagement feature H42 comprises a first bead receiving opening 440a. The first bead receiving opening 440a is substantially "U" shaped.

The blank 410 is optionally provided with a pair of recesses R41, R42. A first recess R41 is inserted from an edge of the first bottom panel 412; and a second recess R42 is inserted from one edge of the second bottom panel 428. Recesses R41, R42 are sized, positioned and arranged so that once a composite bottom wall structure 412/428 is formed, recesses R41, R42 overlap to a sufficient extent so that an R41 / R42 opening or gap is provided in the 412/428 composite bottom wall structure, which R41 / R42 gap or gap is sized and positioned to receive an M43 locking tab from the basket envelope-type exterior 490.

Top panel 420 comprises one or more article receiving openings 402a, 402b, 402c, 402d. Each article receiving aperture 402a, 402b, 402c, 402d is configured to receive a neck portion of a respective one of the articles B1, B2, B3, B4, see Figure 19. The illustrated embodiment comprises four article receiving apertures 402a, 402b, 402c, 402d, in alternative embodiments a single or a plurality of article receiving openings may be provided.

The first side panel 416 comprises a plurality of fold lines that facilitate folding of the first side wall 416 around the first side of the group of articles B1, B2, B3, b4.

A first fold line 472a may be provided; the first fold line 472a extends substantially in between the first bevel panel 414 and the top panel 420. The first fold line bisects the first side panel 416.

The first fold line 472a may be collinear with a fold line 462 that extends transversely and bisects the top panel 420.

A second fold line 436a may be provided; the second fold line 436a extends from a first side edge of the first side panel 416 to the center of the first side panel 416 and intersects the first fold line 472a.

A third fold line 436b may be provided; The third fold line 436b extends from a second side edge of the first side panel 416 to the scepter of the first side panel 416 so that it meets or intersects with the second fold line 436a and the first fold line 472a.

A fourth fold line 473a extends from a first side edge of the first side panel 416 to the vertex defined by the intersection of the first, second, and third fold lines 472a, 436a, 436b. The fourth folding law 473a together with the second folding line 436a defines at least in part a first sheet panel which may have a substantially triangular shape.

A fifth fold line 473b extends from a second side edge of the first side panel 416 to the apex defined by the intersection of the first, second, and third fold lines 472a, 436a, 436b. The fifth fold line 473b together with the third fold line 436b defines at least in part a second sheet panel which may have a substantially triangular shape.

Second side panel 424 comprises a plurality of fold lines 438a, 438b, 472b, 473c, 473d that facilitate folding of second side wall 424 around a second side of group of items B1, B2, B3, B4. The arrangement of said plurality of fold lines 438a, 438b, 472b, 473c, 473d is substantially similar to that described above in relation to the first side panel 416 and will not be described in more detail.

A second outer blank 411 shown in Figure 17 comprises a series of main panels that form the main walls of a first inner basket 490 once the second outer blank 411 is assembled. The series of main panels includes: a first bottom panel 425, a first side panel 423, an upper panel 419, a second side panel 415, and a second bottom panel 413. The main panels 425, 423 are connected with a hinge line one to the next via fold line 437. Main panels 415, 413 are connected with a hinge line one to the next via fold line 427.

The first side panel 423 is connected to the top panel 419 by a plurality of fold lines 483a, 483b, 433a, 433b. Top panel 419 is connected to second side panel 415 through a plurality of fold lines 431a, 431b, 483c, 483d.

To facilitate mechanical interlocking of the first and second lower panels 425, 413, the first and second lower panels 425, 413 are provided with complementary locking means. Optionally, the complementary locking arrangement illustrated comprises a female tab F43 on the first bottom panel 425; and an M43 male locking tab on the second bottom panel 413.

Optional alignment openings A47, A48 are arranged in the first bottom panel 425. Optional alignment openings A44, A46 are arranged in the second bottom panel 413. Alignment openings A47, A48, A44, A46 facilitate automatic placement of the second bottom panel 413 relative to the first lower panel 425.

Optionally, the alignment apertures A47, A48, A44, A46 are substantially triangular in shape, although other shapes may be employed.

Top panel 319 comprises one or more article receiving openings 402e, 402f, 402g, 402h. Each article receiving opening 402e, 402f, 402g, 402h is configured to receive a neck portion of a respective one of articles B1, B2, B3, B4. Each of the article receiving openings 402e, 402f, 402g, 402h in the top panel 419 is configured to be arranged in vertical registration with a respective one of the article receiving openings 402a, 402b, 402c, 402d in the top panel. 420 of the first inner basket 492.

The illustrated embodiment comprises four article receiving openings 402e, 402f, 402g, 402h, in alternative embodiments a single or a plurality of article receiving openings may be provided. The first side panel 423 comprises a plurality of fold lines that facilitate folding of the first side panel 423 around the third side of the group of articles B1, B2, B3, B4.

A first fold line 482a may be provided; The first fold line 482a extends substantially between, that is, more than 50 percent of the height of the first side panel 425, the first bottom panel 425, and the top panel 419. The first fold line 482a bisects with the first side panel 423.

The first fold line 482a may be collinear with a fold line 486 that extends through and bisects the top panel 419.

A second fold line 433a may be provided; the second fold line 433a extends from a first side edge of the first side panel 423 to the center of the first side panel 423 and intersects the first fold line 482a.

A third fold line 433b may be provided; the third fold line 433b extends from a second side edge of the first side panel 423 to the center of the first side panel 423 so that it meets or intersects with the second fold line 433a and the first fold line 482a.

A fourth fold line 483a extends from a first side edge of the first side panel 423 to the vertex defined by the intersection of the first, second, and third fold lines 482a, 433a, 433b. The fourth fold line 483a together with the second fold line 433a defines at least in part a first sheet panel which may have a substantially triangular shape.

A fifth fold line 483b extends from a second side edge of the first side panel 423 to the apex defined by the intersection of the first, second, and third fold lines 482a, 433a, 433b. Fifth fold line 483b in conjunction with third fold line 433b defines at least in part a second sheet panel which may have a substantially triangular shape.

The second side panel 415 comprises a plurality of fold lines 431a, 431b, 482b, 483c, 483d that facilitate folding of the second side wall 415 around a second side of the group of articles B1, B2, B3, B4. The arrangement of said plurality of fold lines 431a, 431b, 482b, 483c, 483d is substantially similar to that described above in relation to the first panel 423 and will not be described in more detail.

Referring now to Figure 19 the first inner blank 410 and the second outer blank 411 form a container 494. Figure 19 illustrates the second side panel 424 of the first inner basket 492 and the first side panel 423 of the second outer basket 490.

An upper portion of the second side panel 424 of the first inner basket 492 bends or deforms around the shoulders of the items B1, B4. The second side panel 424 is folded around the fold line 472b so that it is moved into a gap between the items B1, B4, to form a recessed panel portion. The recessed panel portion forms a valley depression that extends substantially vertically between the upper panel 420 and comprises a lower panel 412/428.

The first and second sheet panels can be deformed around a respective one of the articles B1, B4 to form a close fit therebetween.

The first and second sheet panels may be folded around the shoulder of a respective one of the items B1, B4, such that the first and second sheet panels are not coplanar with the rest of the second side panel 424.

An upper portion of the first side panel 423 of the second outer basket 490 is bent or deformed around the shoulders of the items B4, B3. The first side panel 423 is moved inwardly into a gap between the items B4, B3, so that a recessed panel portion is formed. The recessed panel part forms a valley depression that extends substantially vertically between upper panel 419 and composite lower panel 425/413.

The first and second sheet panels of the first side panel 423 may be formed around a respective one of the items B4, B3 to form a close fit therebetween,

The first and second sheet panels of the first side panel 423 may be folded around the shoulder of the respective one of the items B4, B3 so that the first and second side panels are coplanar with the rest of the first side panel 423.

Referring now to Figures 20, 21, 22, and 23, additional embodiments of the present invention are shown, including a first wrap-type inner blank 510 for use with a second wrap-type outer blank 511, which forms a container 594 in accordance with a sixth embodiment. In the sixth illustrated embodiment, like reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate like parts, while adding the prefix "500" to indicate that these features belong to the sixth embodiment. The embodiment shown in Figures 20 to 23 share many common features with the previously described embodiments and therefore only the differences from the embodiment illustrated in Figures 1 to 19 will be described in detail.

Referring now to Figure 20, the first blank 510 again comprises a series of main panels that form the main walls of a first inner basket 590 shown in Figure 22. The series of main panels includes: a first bottom panel 512, a first bevel panel 514, a first side panel 516, a second bevel panel 518, a top panel 520, a third bevel panel 522, a second side panel 524, a fourth bevel panel 526, and a second panel bottom 528. Main panels 512, 514, 516, 518, 520, 522, 524, 526, 528 are connected with a hinge line one to the next in series along fold lines 530, 532, 534, 536 , 538, 580, 582 and 584.

The first interior blank 510 optionally comprises no end panels, no displaceable flaps, and no keel structure. Similar to the first interior blank 10 of Figure 1, the first interior blank 510 comprises mechanical interlocking means for the first and second bottom panels 512, 528. Optionally, the complementary locking arrangement illustrated comprises two female tabs F51, F52 on second bottom panel 528; and two male locking tabs M51, M52 on the first bottom panel 512.

The first inner blank 510 also optionally comprises alignment apertures A51, A53; and optional article bead coupling characteristics H51, H52, H53, H54 which function in the same way as the bead coupling characteristics H1, H2, H3, H4 of blank 10. In this configuration, the torque of Recesses R1, R2 is replaced by a locking aperture A55 which is formed in the first bottom panel 512 and is arranged to facilitate cooperation and joint locking of the inner wrap-type basket 590 and the outer wrap-type basket 592.

The second locking aperture A55 optionally has a generally hexagonal shaped edge and may comprise two opposite fold lines 509a, 509b and two opposite tabs 507a, 507b. The two opposed tabs 507a, 507b are connected with a hinge line around the fold lines 509a, 509b. The two opposing tabs 507a, 507b may be offset by one or more locking tabs M53, M54 of the second outer basket 592. The presence of the two offset opposing tabs 507a, 507b in the locking arrangement can improve the security with which the first basket 590 is interlocked with the second basket 592.

In the second bottom panel 528 an additional locking opening A52 is provided, which will be superimposed or aligned with the locking opening A55 of the first bottom panel 512 and the locking tabs 507a, 507b can assist in locking the first and second bottom panels 512, 528 with each other.

The second and third bevel panels 518, 522 optionally comprise a weakened arrangement 570a, 570b, 570c, 570d adjacent each most extreme opening 502a, 502b, 502e, 502f. Since the weakened arrangements 570a, 570b, 570c, 570d are optionally similar, only one is described.

Opening 502e is defined in part by a circular cut line that lies adjacent to fold line 538. Adjacent to opening 502e a slit 570c extends at an angle in third bevel panel 522. The weakened arrangements 570a, 570b, 570c, 570d can be broken to aid in the removal of an item B from basket 590 when assembled.

Top panel 520, as shown in Figure 20, also comprises an article receiving arrangement, but unlike the embodiment of Figures 1 to 5, the article receiving arrangement does not comprise movable flaps. In this arrangement six openings 502a, 502b, 502c, 502d, 502e, 502f are arranged in the top panel 520, each to receive a top and neck of an article B1, B2, B3, B4, B5, B6. The article receiving arrangement also optionally comprises a series of brittle lines 504a, 504b, 504c, 504d, 506a, 506b, 506c, 506d emanating radially outward from one edge of an opening 502a, 502b, 502c, 502d, 502e, 502f as shown in Figure 20. Brittle lines 504a, 504b, 504c, 504d, 506a, 506b, 506c, 506d are sized, shaped, positioned, and otherwise arranged to facilitate removal of an item by pulling it upward and causing a tear to propagate along one or more of the brittle lines 504a, 504b, 504c, 504d, 506a, 506b, 506c, 506d such that the opening 502a, 502b, 502c, 502d, 502e, 502f associated with the item being removed is increased in size to allow the shoulder of that bottle is lifted through the opening thus created.

To preserve the integrity of the top panel 520, at least to some extent after one or more items have been so removed, the item receiving arrangement may also comprise one or more terminations or cutting edges E1, E2, E3, E4 , the terminations of which are optionally arranged at the end of one, some or all of the brittle lines 504a, 504b, 504c, 504d, 506a, 506b, 506c, 506d in order to limit the extent to which the tear can propagate along top panel length 520.

The illustrated article receiving arrangement may differ in some embodiments to accommodate articles of different size, shape, number, and / or arrangement and / or the illustrated article receiving arrangement may differ in terms of disposed brittle lines and terminations that control the how, and the ease with which, an item can be pulled free from the basket 590.

The first wrap-around type inner basket 590 of the present embodiment (see Figure 22) is assembled by first placing the top panel 520 over the tops of a group of six items arranged in a 3 x 2 group, such that a neck One item of the group is received at each of the openings 502a, 502b, 502c, 502d, 502e, 502f. The construction of the basket 590 is completed as described with respect to the previous embodiments with the second and third bevel panels 518, 522 and the first and second side panels 516, 524 that are arranged along one of the sides. B1 / B4, B3 / B6 of the article group. The first bottom panel 512 and the first bevel panel 514 are then bent until the first and second item bead engagement features H51, H52 are positioned around the beads of the two items B3, B6 on one side of the group and then the second bottom panel 528 and the fourth bevel panel 526 are bent until the third and fourth bead engagement features H53, H54 are positioned around the heels of the two items B1, B4 on the other side of the item group . Then, to form a bottom wall structure, the first and second bottom panels 512, 528 are mechanically locked together by piercing the first and second male tabs M51, M52 against the first and second female tabs F51, F52.

Locking openings A54 and A55 overlap together with locking aperture A52, the bottom wall of the inner basket is ready to interlock with the outer basket 592 by the wrap-around type outer basket locking tabs 592 that are inserted in the lock openings A54 / A55, A52.

The wrap-around type outer basket 592 compatible with the wrap-around type inner basket 590 can take many different forms. For example, the blank 511 shown in Figure 21 may be assembled into one such suitable wrap-around type outer basket 592, it being recognized that the illustrated example is not limited to a particular or specific combination of the wrap-type inner basket and the outer basket of the enveloping type.

In Figure 21 it can be seen that the blank 511 is similar to the blank 11 of Figure 2, but instead has the first and second bevel panels 521, 517 shaped differently, which provides the the cardboard box completes an asymmetrical appearance. Each first and second bevel panel 521, 517 has a slanted shape defined by sloping side edges. Unlike blank 11 of Figure 2, blank 511 of Figure 21 further comprises first and second insert panels 527a, 527b that are bent connected to an edge of the first and second side panels 523 , 515 respectively by means of fold lines 539a, 539b.

To allow the insert panels 527a, 527b to bend freely, the first and second lower panels 525, 513 are disconnected from the insert panels 527a, 527b.

A further difference between blank 511 of Figure 21 and blank 11 of Figure 2 is the provision of "female" shaped locking tabs F53, F54 which in this arrangement have a greater width than female tabs. rectangles of blank 11. Locking tabs F53, F54 have shoulders and a leading edge that is narrower in width than the width of the lock tabs transverse to their shoulders.

Still a further difference between blank 511 and blank 11 is that the carrying handle features are formed within and surrounded by part of the top panel 519 rather than being formed and a recessed region at one edge of the top panel 519. Fully surrounded by the remainder of the top panel, each carrying handle feature comprises a first tab 553a connected with a hinge line to a central Y-shaped tab 555a along a shaped fold line 561a and the second tab 559a connected with a hinge line to the other side of the central Y-shaped tab 555a by a shaped fold line 563a (see Figures 21 and 23).

As before, in use the center tab 555a may be displaced out of the plane of the top panel 519 when it is folded down around the fold line 565a. The first and second tabs 553a, 559a are also offset out of the plane of the top panel 519 and bent down relative to the top panel 519 and slightly inward toward the center tab 555a. To carry the second wrap-around type outer basket 592 (once it is assembled) the user can grasp the top panel 519 using a punching action, pressing with the thumb against the central tab 555a of a transport feature opera and pressing with one or more or with all of the index, middle and ring fingers against the other center tab 555b and adjacent the first and second tabs 553b, 559b.

Otherwise, blank 511 comprises a similar series of panels including: a first bottom panel 525, a first side panel 523, a first bevel panel 521, a top panel 519, a second bevel panel 517, a second side panel 515, and a second bottom panel 513.

Returning to the construction of the container 594 as illustrated in Figure 22, the second wrap-around type outer basket 592 is aligned with the items within the first inner basket 590, is lowered and placed on the tops of the items B1-B6 . The first and second bevel panels 521, 517 are folded around fold lines 533 and 531 respectively and the first and second side panels 523, 515 are then folded around fold lines 535 and 529 until the first and second Side panels 523, 515 are each disposed along one end B1 / B2 / B3 of the group of articles. As the first and second bevel panels 521, 517 are bent, the upper article engagement features T1, T2 are tightly fitted around the tops of the most central articles B2, B5 in the group. In this way, the second outer basket 592 comprises an article coupling structure T1, T2 and an upper part C of at least one of the articles B2, B5 of the group is received in the first inner basket 590, at least in part, within the entire article coupling structure T1, T2 of the second outer tubular structure 592.

The first and second insert panels 527a, 527b are folded inward toward the group of articles.

The second lower panel 513 is arranged under part of the lower wall structure 512/528 of the inner basket of wrap-around type 590. In this way, the locking tabs F53, F54 are aligned and positioned under the locking openings A52 , A54 / A55. The first bottom panel 525 is then folded around the fold line 537 until the first bottom panel 525 is disposed under part of the second bottom panel 513 and part of the bottom wall structure 512/528 of the wrap-around inner basket. 590. The male locking tabs M53, M54 are thus arranged below both the female locking tabs F53, F54 and the locking apertures A52, A54 / A55. The first and second male tabs M53, M54 are then pushed against the female tabs F53, F54 respectively. This moves the female tabs F53, F54 into and through a respective one of the locking openings and allows the male tabs to also be pushed into a respective one of the locking openings F53, F54. With respect to the locking aperture A54 / A55, this action also moves the locking tabs 507a, 507b inward to form a secure interlock of both the first and second panels 512, 528 with one another and to ensure interlocking of the first and second. panels 525, 513 of the outer basket 592 with the first and second panels 512/528 of the inner basket 590.

Once the shoulders of both the first and second male tabs M53, M54 and the first and second "female" tabs F53, F54 are pushed past the outer bottom wall structure 513/525 and through and into the region. inside the first wrap-around type inner basket 590, the return of the male and female tabs M53, M54, F53, F54 is prevented and the wrap-around type inner basket 590 and the wrap-around type outer basket 592 are secured locked joints, and The ends of the item group B1 / B2 / B3, B4 / B5 / B6 are now more completely (though still partially) covered by the first and second side and bevel panels 523 / 521,517 / 515 than the second outer basket of envelope type 592.

The container 594 thus formed comprises a first inner basket 590, or a second outer basket 592 and can be easily transported by the transport features 553a / 555a / 559a and 553b / 555b / 559b, which as shown in Figure 23 provide a carrying handle structure and individually provide a spacer between the more centered adjacent items B2, B5 of the item group.

Referring now to Figures 24, 25, and 26, a further embodiment of the present invention is shown, including a first wrap-type inner blank 610 for use with a second wrap-type outer blank 611, which forms a container 694 according to a seventh embodiment. In the seventh illustrated embodiment, like reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate like parts, while adding the prefix "600" to indicate that these features pertain to the sixth embodiment. The wrap-around inner blank 610 and wrap-around inner basket 692 share many features in common with the embodiment shown in Figures 20 to 23; and the wrap-around outer blank 611 and the wrap-around outer basket 690 share many features in common with the embodiment shown in Figures 2 to 21 and therefore only the differences from the embodiments described above will be described in more detail. .

Referring now to Figure 24, the first interior blank 610 is configured to hold four items in a 2x2 arrangement and again comprises a series of main panels that form the main walls, though which do not first comprise and fourth bevel panels, include: a first bottom panel 612, a first side panel 616, a second bevel panel 618, and a top panel 620, a third bevel panel 622, a second side panel 624, and a second bottom panel 628.

Similar to the first interior blank 510, the first interior blank 610 does not comprise any end panels, displaceable flaps, and keel structure and further, similarly to the first interior blank 510 of Figure 20 , the first inner blank 610 comprises mechanical interlocking means for the first and second lower panels 612, 628. Optionally, the illustrated complementary locking arrangement comprises two female tabs F61, F62 which optionally are generally rectangular in shape on the second panel lower 628; and two male locking tabs M61, M62 on the first bottom panel 628.

In this arrangement, a second locking opening A65 is again formed in the first bottom panel; and like blank 510 of Figure 20, second lock aperture A65 has a generally hexagonal shaped edge and comprises two opposing fold lines 609a, 609b and two tabs connected with opposing hinge line 607a, 607a . The two opposed tabs 607a, 607b can be folded around the fold lines 609a, 609b. The two opposing tabs 607a, 607a may be offset by a locking tab M63, M64 of a second outer basket 690. The presence of two offset opposing tabs 607a, 607b in the locking arrangement can increase the security with which the first basket 692 is interlocked with the second basket 690.

Disposed on the second bottom panel 628 is a further locking aperture A64, which overlaps or is aligned with the locking aperture A65 of the first bottom panel 612 and the locking tabs 607a, 607b can help lock the first and second panels 612 , 628 with each other and / or with the outer basket 692.

In this arrangement, the blank 610 optionally comprises additional openings A32, A34 formed so that an edge of the opening A32, A34 is coincident with the fold line 632, 684 between the first or second bottom panel 612, 628 and adjacent first or second side panels 616, 624. Openings A32, A34 can be used as alignment openings for use during construction of basket 692, to ensure, for example, that first and second bottom panels 612, 628 they are aligned correctly. The openings A32, A34 can also receive interlocking features from the other basket 690.

The top panel 620, as shown in Figure 24 comprises an article receiving arrangement, but unlike the embodiment of Figures 1 to 5, the article receiving arrangement does not comprise movable flaps. In this arrangement four openings 602a, 602b, 602c and 602d are arranged in the top panel 620, each to receive a top and neck portion of an article B1, B2, B3, B4. The article receiving arrangement also optionally comprises a series of four brittle lines 604a, 604b, 604c, 604d each emanating radially outward from one edge of an opening 602a, 602b, 602c and 602d as shown in Figure 24. Brittle lines 604a, 604b, 604c, 604d are sized, shaped, positioned, or otherwise arranged to facilitate removal of an item by pulling it upward and causing a tear to propagate into top panel 620 so that the Opening 602a, 602b, 602c, 602d associated with the item being removed increases in size to allow the shoulder of that bottle to be lifted through the opening thus created.

As before, the second and third bevel panels 618, 622 optionally comprise a weakened arrangement 668a, 668b, 670a, 670b adjacent each of the four article receiving openings 602a, 602b, 602c, 602d which are arranged in the top panel 620. Since the weakened arrangements 668a, 668b, 670a, 670b are optionally similar, only one is described. Adjacent to aperture 602a a brittle line 604a extends at an angle toward first bevel panel 618; and toward a slit 668b formed at a cooperating angle in the first bevel panel 618. The slit 668b and brittle line 604a can be broken and used to tear the top panel 620 and first bevel panel 618 to aid in removal of an item B from basket 692 when assembled.

The first wrap-around type inner basket 692 of the present embodiment (see Figure 22) is assembled by first placing the top panel 690 over the tops of a group of four items arranged in a 2 x 2 group, such that a neck One item of the group is received in each of the openings 602a, 602b, 602c, 602d. The construction of the basket 692 is completed as described with respect to the previous embodiments with the second and third bevel panels 618, 622 and the first and second side panels 616, 624 that are arranged along one of the sides. B1 / B2, B3 / B4 of the article group. The first bottom panel 612 is then folded until the first and second article bead engagement features H61, H62 are positioned around the heels of the two articles B1, B2 on one side of the group and then the second bottom panel 628 is bent until the third and fourth bead engagement features H63, H64 are located around the heels of the two items B3, B4 on the other side of the item group. Then, to form the bottom wall structure, the first and second bottom panels 612, 628 are mechanically locked together by piercing or pressing the first and second M61, M62 male tabs against the first. and second female tabs F61, F62.

Locking openings A64 and A65 line and prepare the inner basket bottom wall for interlocking with the 690 outer basket using a locking tab (M63 or M64) from the 690 wrap-around outer basket. The 690 wrap-around outer basket Compatible with the 692 wrap-around inner basket, it can take many different shapes. In this arrangement, two inner baskets 692a, 692b are supported by a single outer basket 690, so that the complete package 694 contains 8 items B1, B2, b3, B4, B1 B2 ', B3', B4 'packed in two baskets 692a, 692b, each comprising a 2x2 group of four items. An example of a basket 690 suitable for combination with two inner baskets 692a, 692b is shown in Figure 26. The basket 690 is formed from a blank 611 as shown in Figure 25. It will be recognized that the Illustrative example provided is not limited to a particular or specific combination of wrap-type inner basket and wrap-type outer basket.

In Figure 25 it can be seen that the starting piece 611 is similar to the starting piece 11 of Figure 2, although with panels dimensioned more than large to accommodate a greater number of articles B1, B2, B3, B4, B1 ' , B2 ', B3', B4 '. Additionally, the top panel 619 is formed similarly to the top panel 520 of the blank shown in Figure 21 in that the carrying handle features are formed within and surrounded by part of the top panel 619 rather than being formed at a recessed region in one edge of the top panel 619. Completely surrounded by the remainder of the top panel, each carry handle feature again comprises a first tab connected with a hinge line to a central Y-shaped tab 655a along of a shaped fold line and a second tab connected to a hinge line on the other side of the Y-shaped center tab 655a by a shaped fold line (see Figures 25 and 26).

As before, in use, the center tab 655a can be displaced out of the plane of the top panel 619 as it is folded down. The first and second tabs are also displaced out of the plane of the top panel 619 and bent down relative to the top panel 619 and slightly inward toward the center tab 655a. To carry the second wrap-around type outer basket 690 (once assembled) the user can grasp the top panel 619 using a punching action, pressing with the thumb against the center tab 655a on one side of the carry feature and pressing with one or more or all of the index, middle and ring fingers against the other center tab 655b and adjacent the first and second tabs.

Otherwise, blank 611 comprises a similar series of main panels to blank 11 of Figure 2, including: a first bottom panel 625, a first side panel 623, a first bevel panel 621, the top panel 619, a second bevel panel 617, a second side panel 615, and a second bottom panel 613. To interlock the outer basket 690 formed from that of the blank 611 with the two inner baskets 692a, 692b the first and Second panels 625, 613 are provided with shaped and wide locking tabs M63, M64, F63, F64 which cooperate as described above. Furthermore, the first lower panels comprise one or more optional male tabs M65, M66 cooperating with one or more corresponding female tabs F65, F66. This locking mechanism is arranged to interlock the first and second bottom panels 625, 613 of the outer basket 690 together and increase the security with which the bottom structure of the container 694 is held together. As can be seen, the additional lower locking features M65, M66, F65, F66 interlocking the first lower panel 625 of the outer basket 690 with the second lower panel 613 of the outer basket 690 with each other, are optionally arranged in the region center of blank 611. This can offer increased strength in the region where the two separate inner baskets 692a, 692b meet.

An optional series of alignment apertures A61, A62, A63, A54; A55, A66, A67, A68 are arranged on the first and second lower panels 625, 613, again to aid in the correct alignment of the first and second lower panels 625, 613 with each other to interlock the outer basket 690 together and with the bottom walls 612/628, 612 '/ 628' of the inner baskets 692a, 692b.

Container 694 formed from two inner baskets 692a, 692b and the single outer basket 690 C is shown in Figure 26. Container 694 is constructed by placing two inner baskets 692a, 692b next to each other so that the second Side panel 624 of the first of the inner baskets 692a is disposed below and possibly in a face contact relationship with the first side panel 616 'of the second of the inner baskets 692b. This results in a 2 x 4 item arrangement being formed.

The top panel 619 is then placed on top of the group of eight bottles B1, B2, B3, B4; B1 ', B2', B3 ', B4' and the first and second bevel panels 621, 617 are folded down against the "open ends" of the inner baskets 692a, 692b. The first bevel panel 621 is disposed along a first end B2, B4, B2 ', B4' of the group of articles; and the second bevel panel 617 is disposed along a second end B1, B3, B1 ', B3' of the group of articles. The upper mating features T1a, T1b are coupled and positioned with the more central items B4, B2 '; and the upper coupling features T2a, T2b are coupled and positioned with the more central articles B3, B1 '.

After folding the first and second side panels firmly against the ends of the inner baskets 692a, 692b, the first and second lower panels 625, 613 of the outer basket are folded in turn, under the inner baskets 692a, 692b. The second lower panel 613 is folded first and comes into contact with the underside of the lower wall structures of the inner baskets 692a, 692b, so that the female locking tab F64 is disposed below the locking opening A64 / A65 of the first inner basket 692a; and so that the female locking tab F63 is disposed below the locking opening A64 '/ A65' of the second inner basket 692b.

The first bottom panel 625 is then bent so that it contacts the underside of the bottom wall structures of the inner baskets 692a, 692b; and partially covers the second bottom panel 613. In this way, the male locking tab M64 is aligned with, and disposed below, the female locking tab F64 and the locking opening A64 / A65 of the first inner basket 692a; the male locking tab M63 is aligned and disposed below the female locking tab F63 and the locking opening A64 ', A65' of the second inner basket 692b; and the additional male locking tabs M65, M66 are arranged below and aligned with the female tabs F66, F65 and the openings A32, A34.

To interlock the first and second panels 625, 613 with each other, and to interlock the bottom wall 625/613 of the outer basket 690 to the inner basket 692a; the M64 male tab is forced against the F64 female tab, which pushes both the F64 female tab and the M64 male tab up into the A64 / A65 locking opening, which in turn pushes the tabs 607a, 607b up into the the first inner basket 692a. The tabs 607a, 607b are arranged below the female tab F64 and the male tab M64 respectively and the shape and size of all the tabs M64, F64, 607a, 607b are such that once drilled up to a position of locking, the return of the tabs to their initial position is in fact very difficult. In this manner, outer basket 690 is securely attached to inner basket 692a. The M64, F64 male and female lugs may rest against the edge of the A65 / A64 opening which may be shaped such that the shoulders of the M64 male lug protrude from the edge of the A65 / A64 opening and sit in, or just above, the inner surface of the second bottom panel 628 of the first inner basket 692a.

This is shown in Figure 27, which illustrates an interior view of part of the container with bottles removed. The first inner basket 692a is shown with its first side panel 616 on the right side of the image. The bead lock features H62, H61, with its bending retention tabs 644a, bent as can be seen. Similarly, on the left side of the image, the second side panel 624 can be seen with its H63, H64 bead lock features shown. Through the gaps created by the inward bending of the bendable retention tabs 644a, the second inner basket 692b can be seen, in particular the first side panel thereof 616 '(on a far left side from image). As can be seen, the second lower panel 628 of the inner basket 692a partially sits on top of the first lower panel 612.

Similarly, to further interlock the first and second bottom panels 625, 613 with each other, and to interlock the bottom wall 625/613 of the outer basket 690 with the inner basket 692b: the M63 male tab is forced against the F63 female tab, which pushes both the female tab F63 and the male tab M63 up into the opening A64 '/ A65', which in turn pushes the tabs 607a ', 607b' up into the second inner basket 692b. The tabs 607a ', 607b' are arranged behind the female tab F63 and the male tab M63 and the shape and size of all the tabs M63, F63, 607a ', 607b' are such that once drilled up to a position locking, the return of the tabs to their original position is in fact very difficult. In this manner, the outer basket 690 is securely attached to the second inner basket 692b. The male and female tabs M63, F63 can be supported on the edge of the A65 '/ A64' opening which can be shaped such that the shoulders of the M63 male tongue cover the edge of the A65 '/ A64' opening and sit on or just above the inner surface of the second bottom panel 628 'of the second inner basket 692b.

Furthermore, to interlock the first and second lower panels 625, 613 with each other, the male tabs M66, M65 are forced against the female tabs F66, F65. The male and female tabs can be located in the openings A34, A32 'respectively and can therefore provide additional interlocking of the inner and outer baskets 692a, 692b, 690.

To remove an item, the weakened arrangement 668a, 668b, 670a, 670b adjacent each of the four item receiving openings 602a, 602b, 602c, 602d can be broken; and even once one or more of the items have been removed, the structural integrity of the container 694 is maintained.

Referring now to Figures 28 to 29, a further alternative embodiment of the present invention is shown wherein an inner blank 710 may be combined with a second outer blank for example the blank 611 of Figure 25 to build a container. In the eighth illustrated embodiment, the same reference numerals have been used, where possible, to designate equal parts, while adding the prefix "700" to indicate that these features belong to the eighth embodiment. The Alternate embodiment shares many common features with previous embodiments and therefore only the differences from the embodiments illustrated in Figures 1 to 27 will be described in greater detail.

The first interior blank 710 comprises a series of main panels that form the major walls of a first interior basket 792 once the first interior blank 710 is assembled. The series of main panels includes: a first bottom panel 712, first side panel 716, an upper panel 720, a second side panel 724, a second bottom panel 728. The main panels 712, 716, are connected with a hinge line one to the next via fold line 732. Main panels 724, 728 are connected with a hinge line one to the next via fold line 784.

A first end panel 750 is connected to the top panel 720 via fold lines 760a. A second end panel 152 is connected to the top panel 720 via fold lines 760b. The blank 710 is configured to automatically hold the first and second end panels 750, 752 in a configured position when the blank 710 is assembled. The blank comprises four anchor panels 754a, 754b, 754c, 754d and four sheet panels 756a, 756b, 756c, 756d and four angle panels 764a, 764b, 764c, 764d.

The first anchor panel 754a is connected with a hinge line to a first side of the first side panel 716 by a fold line 753a. The first anchor panel 754a is connected with a hinge line, along one end thereof, to a first angle panel 764a by a fold line 758a. The first angle panel 764a is connected with a hinge line to the first sheet panel 756a by a fold line 763a. The first sheet panel 756a is connected with a hinge line to the first end panel 750 by a fold line 757a.

A second anchor panel 754b is connected with a hinge line to a second side of the first side panel 716 by a doubled line 753b. The second anchor panel 754b is connected with a hinge line, along one end thereof, to a second angle panel 764b via a fold line 758b. The second angle panel 764b is connected with a hinge line to a second sheet panel 756b by a fold line 763b. The second sheet panel 756b is connected with a hinge line to the second end panel 752 via a fold line 757b.

A third anchor panel 754c is connected with a hinge line to a first side of the second side panel 724 by a fold line 753c. The third anchor panel 754c is connected with a hinge line, along one end thereof, to the third angle panel 764c by a fold line 758c. The third angle panel 764c is connected with a hinge line to the first sheet panel 756c via a fold line 763c. The third sheet panel 756c is connected with a hinge line to the first end panel 750 by a fold line 757c.

A fourth anchor panel 754d is connected with a hinge line to a second side of the second side panel 724 by a fold line 753d. The fourth anchor panel 754d is connected with a hinge line, along one end thereof, to a fourth angle panel 764d by a fold line 758d. The fourth angle panel 764d is connected with a hinge line to a fourth sheet panel 756d by a fold line 763d. The fourth sheet panel 756d is connected with a hinge line to the second end panel 752 via a fold line 757d.

To facilitate mechanical interlocking of the first and second lower panels 712, 728, the first and second lower panels 712, 728 are provided with complementary locking means. Optionally, the illustrated complementary locking arrangement comprises two female tabs F71, F72 on the second bottom panel 728; and two M11, M12 male locking tabs on the first bottom panel 712.

An optional alignment aperture A71 is provided in the second bottom panel 728 to facilitate automated positioning of the second bottom panel 728 relative to the first bottom panel 712. The optional alignment aperture A72 is provided in the first bottom panel 712 to facilitate location automation of the second bottom panel 728 relative to the first bottom panel 712. Openings A71 and A72 can also receive locking tabs from an outer basket, such as outer basket 690.

Optional item stub attachment features H71, H72, H73, H74 are also arranged and have a similar structure to the H1, H2, H3, H4 stub attachment features already described, albeit with the addition of an opening separating at part one of the pair of inward bending retention tabs from the other of the pair of inward bending retention tabs, and the inclusion of an additional fold line in each of the retention tabs, defining the further fold line partly a substantially triangular sheet part.

To facilitate cooperation and locking together of the wrap-around type inner basket 792 formed from the blank 710 (see Figure 29) with the other wrap-around type outer basket, a mechanical interlocking mechanism is provided. The mechanical interlocking mechanism optionally comprises one or more openings provided in the wrap-around inner basket 792 to cooperate with the locking tabs provided in the Surround-type outer basket. In the present embodiment, the blank 710 is provided with a first locking aperture A74 punched out from the second panel 728 and the second locking aperture A75 punched out from the first bottom panel 712. Optionally, the locking apertures A74, A75 have a substantially hexagonal shape. The first and second openings A74, A75 are each sized and positioned to receive a locking tab from the wrap-around type outer basket. The first and second openings A74, A75 are configured such that they are arranged in vertical registration when the basket 792 is assembled.

The second locking aperture A75 is defined in part by one or more tabs 709a, 709b, connected with a hinge line to the first bottom panel 712 by the doubled line 707a, 707b respectively. The illustrated embodiment comprises a pair of oppositely disposed tabs 709a, 709b. The tabs 709a, 709b are bent inward of the basket 792, the first lower panel 712 being arranged externally of the second lower panel 728, such that they pass through the first locking aperture A74 thereby holding the first and second panels. lower 712, 728 in position while the second outer basket is mounted around them.

Top panel 120 comprises an article receiving arrangement. The article receiving arrangement comprises a pair of transversely disposed movable flaps 720b, 720c, which extend between the top panel portions 720 connected with a hinge line to the end panels 150, 152. The article receiving arrangement comprises a by elongated slot openings 720a, 720d extending between end panels 750, 752. A first opening 720a defines an upper edge 766a of first side panel 716. A second opening 720d defines an upper edge 766b of second side panel 724.

The pair of transversely disposed movable flaps 720b, 720c are connected with a hinge line to each other by a fold line 762b. The fold line 762b ends at each end with a "V" shaped portion.

A first leg 704a of a first "V" shaped part connects with a hinge line a first end of a first movable flap 720b with the top panel 720. A second leg 704c of the first "V" shaped part connects a first end of a second movable flap 720d is hinged with the top panel 720.

A first leg 704b of a second "V" shaped part connects with a hinge line a second end of the first movable flap 720b to the top panel 720. A second leg 704d in the "V" shaped part connects with a hinge line a second end of the second movable flap 720c to the top panel 720.

The first movable flap 720a comprises one or more recesses 769a each being shaped to receive a portion of the respective article B1, B2, B3, B4. The illustrated embodiment comprises a pair of recesses 769a.

The second movable flap 720b comprises one or more recesses 769b each shaped to receive a portion of the respective article B1, B2, B3, B4. The illustrated embodiment comprises a pair of recesses 769b.

The first side panel 716 comprises a first fold line 770b extending between an upper edge of the first side panel 716 and a first side edge; defined by a fold line 753a, of the first side panel 716 so that it is disposed obliquely.

The first side panel 716 comprises the second fold line 768b that extends between an upper edge of the first side panel 716 and a second side edge; defined by the fold line 753b, of the first side panel 716 so that it is arranged obliquely.

The second side panel 724 comprises a third creased line 770a extending between an upper edge of the second side panel 724 and a first side edge; defined by the fold line 753c, of the second side panel 724 so that it is disposed obliquely.

The second side panel 724 comprises a second fold line 768a extending between an upper edge of the second side panel 724 and a second side edge; defined by the fold line 753d, of the second side panel 724 so that it is arranged obliquely.

Optionally, the first, second, third and fourth fold lines 770b, 768b, 770a, 768a can be composed of two or more linear sections arranged divergent from each other.

The construction of the first wrap-around type inner basket 792 is similar to that already described in relation to the first wrap-around type inner basket 92, although, when the top panel 120 is lowered and placed on the tops of the items B1, B2 , B3, B4, a pair of articles B1, B2, B3, B4, pass through each of the apertures 720a, 720d. This causes the movable flaps 720b, 720c to each fold up around the fold line 762b, so that two transverse rows, each comprising two articles, are disposed within a transverse opening formed therefrom.

The first and second side panels 716, 724 are then folded around the group of articles until they are each disposed along one side of the group of articles. Anchor panels 754a, 754b, 754c, 754d are bent into a face contact relationship with a respective one of the first and second side panels 716, 724, as the first and second side panels 716, 724 are bent around the group of articles. Consequently, the first and second end panels 750, 752 are automatically lifted around the respective ends of the group of articles.

The first and second bottom panels 712, 728 are folded around the base of the group of articles. The bead engagement features H71, H72, H73, H74 which are each positioned around a bead of an article along respective sides of the article group and with the first bottom panel 712 being disposed externally relative to and at overlapping relationship with, second lower panel 728.

The M71, M72, F71, F72 mechanical interlock mechanism can be operated to secure the first and second bottom panels 712, 728 together by moving the M71, M72 male tabs inward to move the F71, F72 female tabs and through the respective openings. in the second lower panel 728 formed in this way.

In this manner, the first and second bottom panels 712, 728 are mechanically locked together so that the group of items B1, B2, B3, B4 are tightly packed and held together within the first basket 792. The ends of the Group of articles (see Figure 29) are only partially covered by the first and second end panels 750, 752 but are otherwise exposed.

A keel structure or shoring structure is formed by the combination of the movable tabs 720b, 720c, the fold line 762b, and the fold lines 704a, 704c, 704b, 704d at both ends thereof which engage the movable tabs. 720b, 720c to top panel 720. The keel structure forms a shoring between the first row of articles B1 / B4 and the second row of articles B2 / B3.

The first, second, third and fourth fold lines 770a, 768a, 770b, 768b facilitate the folding of the upper end portions of the first and second side panels 716, 728 around the shoulder of an adjacently arranged article B1, B2, B3 , B4. In this way, the first basket forms a tight fit with the group of articles. The first, second, third and fourth fold lines 770a, 768a, 770b, 768b can facilitate the folding of said parts of the first and second side panels 716, 728 at least partially over the shoulder of an article B1, B2, B3, B4 thereby increasing the retention of the articles therein. Constructed inner basket 792 is shown in Figure 29.

To complete a package (not shown) one or more, for example two such inner baskets 792 can be housed inside and locked and attached to an outer basket, for example the outer basket 690 of the previous embodiment.

It can be appreciated that various changes can be made within the scope of the present invention, for example the size and shape of the panels and openings can be adjusted to accommodate items of different size or shape.

It will be recognized that, as used herein, directional references such as "top", "front", "rear", "end", "side", "inside", "outside", "top" and "bottom" does not necessarily limit the respective panels to such orientation, but only serves to distinguish these panels from others. As used herein, the terms "connection with a hinge line" and "fold line" refer to all line shapes that can define structures with a hinge line of the blank, facilitate bending. parts of the blank relative to each other, or otherwise indicate optimal panel bending locations for the blank. A fold line is typically a notched line, a positive embossed line, or a negative embossed line. Any reference to the connection to a hinge line or to the bend line should not be construed as necessarily referring only to a single bend line; in fact it is envisaged that the connection to a hinge line can be formed from one or more of the following, a short slit, a brittle line or a bend line without departing from the scope of the invention.

As used herein, the term "breakline" refers to all line shapes that facilitated separation of parts of the substrate from each other or that indicate optimal separation locations. The tear lines can be brittle or otherwise weakened lines, tear lines, cut lines, or indentations.

It is to be understood that the connection to a hinge line, the break lines and the bend lines may each include elements that are formed in the substrate of the blank including perforations, a perforation line, a line of short slits, a half-cut line, a single half-cut, a cut line, an interrupted cut line, slits, notches, any combination thereof, and the like. The elements can be sized and arranged to provide the desired functionality. For example, A line of perforations can be dimensioned or designed with degrees of weakness to define a fold line and / or a break line. The perforation line can be designed to facilitate bending and resist breakage, facilitate bending and facilitate breakage with more effort, or facilitate breakage with little effort.

Claims (2)

1. A container (94, 194, 294, 394, 494, 594, 694) comprising at least a first front basket (92, 192, 292, 392, 492, 590, 692a) and a second outer basket (90, 390, 490, 592, 690), the or each of the at least one inner basket having a first tubular shaft, the second outer basket having a second tubular shaft, and the second outer basket being arranged, at least in part, on the outside of the first inner basket, so that the first and second tubular axes are substantially perpendicular, the container comprising a group of articles (B), where the, or each at least one, first inner basket (92, 192 , 292, 392, 492, 590, 692a) is of the wraparound type and comprises: a top panel (20, 120, 220, 320, 420, 520, 620, 720), first and second side panels (16, 116, 216 , 316, 416, 516, 616, 716; 24, 124, 224, 324, 424, 524, 624, 724), a bottom wall (12, 112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612, 712; 28, 128, 228, 328, 428, 528, 628, 728) and two opposite ends , wherein the first tubular shaft extends between the two opposite ends; wherein the second outer basket (90, 390, 490, 592, 690) is of the wraparound type and comprises: a top panel (19, 319, 419, 519, 619, 719), first and second side panels (15, 315 , 415, 515, 615; 23, 323, 423, 523, 623), a bottom wall (13, 313, 413, 513, 613; 25, 325, 425, 525, 625) and two opposite open ends, where the second tubular shaft extends between the two opposite open ends; wherein the first inner basket (92, 192, 292, 392, 492, 590, 692a) is wrapped around the group of articles (B), wherein the second outer basket (90, 390, 490, 592, 690) is wrapped around the first inner basket (92, 192, 292, 392, 492, 590, 692a) and the group of articles (B), wherein the second outer basket (90, 390, 490, 592, 690) comprises the minus one locking tab (M3, M33, M43, M53, M63; M4, M54, M64) and where the first inner basket comprises an opening (R1 / R2, R11 / R12, R21 / R22, R31 / R32, R41 , R42, A55, A65, A75; A2, A54, A64, A74), the first and second baskets (92, 192, 292, 392, 492, 590, 692a; 90, 390, 490, 592, 690) being configured so that when the container is formed, the locking tab (M3, M33, M43, M53, M63; M4, M54, M64) of the second outer basket (90, 390, 490, 592, 690) is received in said opening (R1 / R2, R11 / R12, R21 / R22, R31 / R32, R41 / R42, A55, A65, A75; A2, A54, A64, A74) of the first inner basket (92, 19 2, 292, 392, 492, 590, 692a) for the connection of the first inner basket (92, 192, 292, 393, 492, 590, 629a) and the second outer basket (90, 390, 490, 592, 690 ) together, where the bottom wall (12/28, 112/128, 212/228, 312/328, 412/428, 512/528, 612/628, 712/728) of the first inner basket (92, 192 , 292, 392, 492, 590, 692a) is formed by a first lower panel (12, 112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612, 712) and a second lower panel (28, 128, 228, 328, 428 , 528, 628, 728), characterized in that the first and second lower panels are arranged in at least a partial overlapping relationship and where the opening (R1 / R2, R11 / R12, R21 / R22, R31 / R32, R41 / R42, A55, A65, A75; A2, A54, a 64, A74) is defined in part by a first cutout (R1, R11, R21, R31, R41, A55, A65, A75) punched out from the first bottom panel (12, 112, 212, 312, 412, 512, 612, 712) and a second cutout (R2, R12, R22, R32, R42, A54, A64, A74) stamped from the second bottom panel (28, 128, 228, 328, 428, 528, 628 , 728). 2. A container (94, 194, 294, 394, 494, 594, 694) according to claim 1, wherein the second outer basket (90, 390, 490, 592, 690) is formed from a material selected from the group consisting of: cardboard, cardboard, coated cardboard, plastic material and polymeric substrates.