DE102012102432A1 - Cardboard package for packing cup of different sizes, has closure element snapped along bending point at packaging part walls and/or converged to walls such that closure element is fixed in position by filling cushioning part - Google Patents

Abstract

The package has a packaging part (2) e.g. folding cardboard, formed from packaging walls, and a cushioning part (10) for reducing a packing space filled with a filler. A closure part closes the packaging part and comprises a closure element (3') inserted into a packaging part inner space through a gap (4) in packaging part walls. The closure element is snapped along a preset bending point at the packaging part walls and/or converged to the packaging part walls such that the closure element is fixed in a snapped and/or converged position by filling the cushioning part. The filler is air, air mixture, noble gas or gaseous mixture, foam, gel, liquid, resilient and/or small-granular solid materials. An independent claim is also included for a method for packing a packaged product.

Description

introduction

The present invention relates to the field of packaging. More particularly, the invention relates to a packaging with a cushioning agent which protects a packaged goods stored in the packaging and at the same time serves to securely close the packaging.

definitions

Hereinafter, the terms used in the context of this invention and are used for understanding purposes defined.

The "packaged goods" designates the item to be packed.

The "packaging" is formed by the totality of the materials used for packaging the packaged goods.

As "packaging" the main component of a (re) packaging is called. This encloses the packaged goods in whole or in part (for example cardboard box, box, box, etc.).

By "closure aid" is meant known aids which serve to seal or cushion packaging (e.g., adhesive strips, staples, paper, bubble pads, ...).

The introduction of a packaged goods in the packaging is called "packing".

The "packaging space" is the interior of the packaging.

The "packing space" is the cavity which is provided in the unpacked, closed packaging for the packaged goods. If, for example, one or more upholstery is inserted into the packaging, the (remaining) packaging space becomes smaller than the packaging material space.

By "shell" is meant one or more "chambers" forming, at least partially flexible, planar object. This dictates the chambers through his physical design.

An "upholstery element" is a basic component of a "upholstery" that can be determined by shaping and / or function.

The "upholstery" or short cushion serves the (inner) padding of a packaging. It can be formed by "filling" one or more envelopes with a "filler".

If a fillable pad is placed in the packaging, which fills the entire interior of the packaging when filled, no more packing space is available. In this case, this is referred to as a "pack-less packaging" (in contrast to the "pack-space-forming" packaging).

State of the art and disadvantages

Various types of packaging and padding for packaged goods are known from the prior art. Since packaging as a whole consists of different components, some of which are functionally independent of one another, these components are treated separately below.

The use of simple packaging with upholstery is well known. These are simple cardboard packaging with cardboard inserts, foam or Styrofoam deposits, etc .. The latter are either independent of the shape of the packaged goods, but can often be packaged specifically shaped, especially for higher quality and / or fragile packaged goods. They are usually disposed of to the consumer and not subjected to any specific reuse. Recycling, however, is usually possible.

As fillers are for example paper strips, plastic beads or packaging chips, which are introduced together with the packaged goods in the packaging space. They serve to absorb shocks (impact absorption) and, moreover, by means of cavity filling, provide the packaged goods in the packaging with a certain hold. The disadvantage is that the introduction of the fillers represents a not inconsiderable amount of work; In addition, the volumes of fillers to be stored are enormous. Another disadvantage is that the fillers are usually disposed of at the consumer and no reuse, at best, a recycling (recycling) are supplied.

Also used for filling are (valveless) air cushion bags (in particular for void filling), air cushion upholstery films and mats (in particular for shock absorption). These are available in the form of roll material and are usually prefilled in separate, factory-carried out steps. To construct this, a large number of chambers are welded into a double-walled plastic film. The packaged goods are repackaged with the bubble wrap or air chamber mats prior to closing the packaging. Cavities may be filled with bubble bags. Although such bags, films or mats are in principle reusable; Because of their high volume, they are usually disposed of by the consumer after unpacking the packaged goods.

In addition, for example, from the document US 4,905,835 (Pivert 1990), US 5,348,157 (Pozzo 1994), US 5,588,533 (Farison 1995) or US 5,862,914 (Farison 1999) Pack solutions with valve pads that can be filled with valves, which require a multi-stage approach. This may consist of a separate filling of different pads. Furthermore, there are often other requirements, for example, the order of filling the pad, for attaching the pad to the packaged goods, etc., which makes the handling of the pad often difficult in practice.

One-stage instead of multi-stage methods are also known. In the publication DE 89061640 U1 (Loidold-Ellesser 1989), it is proposed to use valve pads that allow a one-step, no-pack padding process. The single-stage process makes it possible to put the packaged goods into the packaging (eg carton) and, after closing, to fill the upholstery in one stage, ie in one step, via a valve. This considerably reduces the packing effort and also facilitates automation. The one-step procedure proposed in the relevant document also fundamentally permits "padless" padding in which, in the event that no packaged goods are loaded, the entire packaging material space is filled by the padding. As a result, the process is extremely packageable, so it is also universally suitable for packaged goods of various sizes and shapes. This is made possible by numerous film flaps, which form a finely tuned multi-chamber system based on the principle of non-return valves. Leaks in the numerous film flaps, for example, caused by compression of the packaging edge, however, can lead to the loss of cushioning effect and involve risk of damage in itself. Another disadvantage is that the pads do not determine the position of the packaged goods when they are filled. Depending on the size of the packaged goods, the packaged goods may therefore be unfavorably stored near a wall.

Later suggestions, such as those from the application US 2003/0006162 A1 (Smith from 2003) and DE 10 2005 057 540 A1 (Krachtus from 2007) are known, provide a one-level, but "packraumbildende" upholstery. The disadvantage of these proposals is basically their lack of packaged goods flexibility. Packaged goods and packaging space must be coordinated.

Both too small, as well as too large packaged eliminates the cushioning effect entirely or is at least significantly limited. As a universal packaging of varying in size and shape packaged goods, the known pack-space-forming solutions are therefore not suitable or at least disadvantageous.

In summary, a first, major disadvantage in the field of packaging is that they are either not universally usable for very different packaged goods sizes, or that the known solutions for flexible packaged goods are cumbersome to use.

Also known are a variety of closure mechanisms for packaging, which in turn are suitable for the introduction of cushioning agents. For example, the publication suggests EP 231638 A2 (Cargile from 1987) or DE 8807679 U1 (Roepke from 1988) to perform in folding carton made of corrugated cardboard tabs, which are folded around the packaging wall and / or inserted into a recess in the same. However, the tabs have to be folded several times, which reduces their rigidity. In principle, there is the risk that the friction between the tab and the wall is not sufficient to securely clamp these and prevent inadvertent or automatic opening of the packaging during transport. Therefore, such packaging are only limited to the postal shipping without previous closure assurance, which is why usually closure aids such as adhesive strips, tapes or cords are to be used.

A second major disadvantage of known packaging means is that they require an additional closure assurance in order to effectively prevent unintentional opening of the packaging.

Object of the invention and solution

The object of the invention is therefore to avoid the disadvantages of the prior art described. Accordingly, the invention should provide a safe, cost-effective and at the same time usable for packaged goods of different sizes envelope which can be inserted into packaging (folding cartons) and for the purpose of padding of packaged goods after closing the packaging one-stage, so in one step to the packaged adaptable.

A further object of the invention is to provide a packaging means which optimally cooperates with a shell avoiding the above problems.

Another object of the invention is to provide a packaging means which does not require any additional closure mechanisms or whose closure mechanisms can be activated without a user's specially provided working step.

In summary, the object of the invention is to provide an improved packaging for packaged goods of different sizes.

description

The packaging according to the invention will first be described in detail below. Subsequently, an explanation of the structure and operation of the cushioning agent according to the invention and finally a statement of the application of these components by way of the method according to the invention.

The packaging according to the invention is used for packaging of packaged goods of different sizes. It comprises a packaging means formed from a plurality of packaging material walls, a means for reducing the packing space that can be filled with a filling agent, and sealing means for closing the packaging means. In this case, the closure means has at least one closure element which can be introduced into a packaging interior by a gap arranged in a packaging means wall and can be folded around a packaging means wall and / or approached to the packaging means wall so far that it can be approached by filling the packaging wall Can be fixed by means for reducing the packing space in the folded or approximated position.

By inserting the closure means through the gap provided for this purpose and filling the means for reducing the packing space, a fixing of the closure means in the interior of the packaging material takes place such that the closure means remains securely fixed there, even if forces act on it looking to pull out of the gap. For this purpose, a positive connection can be generated by means of bending over. Alternatively, by means of approaching the closure element to the packaging material inner wall, and by pressing achieved by filling the means for reducing the packing space, a frictional connection can be produced which, assuming suitable pressures and surfaces and friction characteristics, also leads to the desired fixation. Also combinations of both variants are possible.

The fixation is achieved by friction, but particularly preferably by positive engagement or a combination of frictional and positive locking. When frictionally closing the closure element is not absolutely necessary, since it already remains in position due to the static friction. Form fit, however, necessarily requires a kinking, the advantage of this variant is in the smaller closure means with the same or better security against accidental opening of the lid.

Preferably, the packaging means comprises a lid, at least one side wall and a front wall, and the closure element is arranged at the front and / or side edge of the lid, and the gap is parallel to the predetermined bending point and is arranged in the region of the front and / or side wall ,

Such packaging differ only insignificantly from certain types of known packaging - except for the inventive presence of the fillable means for reducing the packing space. In these, the closure means is also introduced into a gap from which it can, however, slip out again without the use of closure aids. Also barb-like shapes of the closure element do not solve the problem, since these are either not suitable for absorbing the forces acting on the cover during transport of packaging, or they destroy when tearing the closure means from the gap the same, so that reuse is excluded. This is not the case with the packaging according to the invention, since, as will be explained later, a release of the closure element takes place by way of (re) enlarging the packing space.

According to a preferred embodiment, the closure element is rectangular or tapered. Such a closure element has the advantage of particularly simple insertion into the gap provided for this purpose.

It is clear that a correspondingly large closure element, and / or a plurality of closure elements is to be provided in order to ensure a sufficiently secure closing of the lid, and the lid not only in the region of its front edge, but particularly preferably at its side edges with the connect corresponding walls of the packaging.

According to another preferred embodiment, the gap is horizontal. It is clear that for this purpose the closure element must be arranged according to the edge of the lid to allow easy insertion into the gap.

According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the fillable means for reducing the packing space is a cushioning means. Accordingly, a cushioning means serves not only the purpose of clamping the closure element but also the purpose of protecting the packaged goods stored in the packaging material.

Such a padding means particularly suitable for use in the invention will be described below.

The cushioning agent according to the invention is particularly preferably usable together with a package as described above. However, it is also usable independently of such a package, for example, together with conventional packaging that require a cushioning agent.

According to the invention, the cushioning means comprises at least one shell which can be inserted into the packaging material and which forms a closed volume and consists of an at least partially flexible material, wherein the shell forms at least one chamber which, when filled, has an elastic but not necessarily extensible body Form a plurality of tapered designed cushion elements, each having a base and a tip. The taper can run in the direction of the packaging interior or opposite thereto.

The padding elements have a height that is on the one hand as small as possible, while at the same time a sufficient cushioning effect must be given. A minimum height of about 2 cm has proven to be advantageous here, or a height which corresponds at least to approximately one fifth of that inner dimension of the packaging material which runs colinearly to the longitudinal axis of the upholstery elements. This means that although they protrude into the packaging interior, they do not have to penetrate to the middle or even completely. However, they preferably extend at least into the middle of the packaging interior space, ie they have a length which bridges at least half of the way to the opposite inner wall.

It is further provided that the padding elements can be positioned within the packaging means such that their tips in the filled state point in and / or counter to the direction of the packaging material interior. Assign the padding elements to each other, so they can, assuming appropriate lengths, almost or completely touch, or slide past each other. It is clear that in the event that they span more than 50% of the distance to the opposite inner packaging wall, they protrude beyond the median plane between their "original wall" and the opposite inner wall. In the event that the padding elements, viewed from the packaging material interior, taper towards the inner walls, ie "stand on the tip", they therefore point counter to the direction of the interior of the packaging material. It should be noted that in this case too, the advantageous effect described below can be achieved. It is also clear that the variant denoted by "and" applies only in the event that there are tapered as well as "upstanding" cushioning means to the packaging material interior. Here, too, reference is made to the statements made in particular in the context of the figures.

The shape of the cushioning element is preferably selected from the group consisting of pointed cones, hemispheres, paraboloids, hyperboloids, tetrahedra, pyramids, and stumps of these bodies. Also tubular bodies with a conical, hemispherical, parabolic, hyperbolic-triangular cross-section, as well as combinations and sections of all of the aforementioned bodies, are conceivable. However, the shape of a straight truncated cone with a slightly rounded tip is particularly preferred.

According to a first variant, the cushioning means has a plurality of chambers which, however, are fluidically connected to one another, so that all cushioning elements can be fed together with the fluid provided for their filling (single-chamber system). This means that the pressure in all padding elements is the same.

According to a second variant, the cushioning means comprises a plurality of chambers, of which at least two are fluidically separated from each other (multi-chamber system). In this case, the feeding of the chambers can be done separately. The advantage of such a design is due to the greater safety, since the failure (e.g., due to tearing) of a chamber does not result in the loss of the overall cushioning effect.

It is clear that even a multi-chamber system can be filled via a common inflow, but that after filling a fluidic separation of the chambers must take place. This separation can be done for example by means of a pinch valve, or simply by buckling of the shell as part of the insertion into the packaging.

Accordingly, a design with several converging, but after filling the chambers together disconnectable leads (eg via a pinch valve, pinch valve, hose clamp, etc.) has the advantage that the filling and emptying of all chambers in one step via a single inlet end and / / or valve is possible.

According to further embodiments, the chambers are therefore connected via supply lines to each other and / or to the outside world either directly or via a valve device (eg a valve or a kinked hose). Alternatively, it is also possible to dispense with a valve and, instead, be filled via a simple, hose-like, flexible end piece, for example similar to that of a simple detachable plastic hose (simple closure). This can also be designed as a one-time closure, if after the Filling no emptying of the system is mandatory.

The supply lines, in turn, can be fluidically combined, so that the chambers can be filled together or individually via one or more valves.

The cushioning means may optionally be filled via a pressure vessel. By triggering a corresponding closure, the system is then filled in no time, without the need for electrical equipment or the like.

Further, the cushioning means may be passively deflatable (due to the tension in the material of the filled shell), or actively (e.g., by means of a suction pump). The latter case has the advantage of a particularly rapid emptying, whereas the former case has the advantage of lower costs. However, in particular with large packages and / or large numbers of cases to be emptied, the active variant may be preferred.

According to a further preferred embodiment, a cushioning element comprises at least one support foil, with which forces acting on the cushioning element are at least partially derivable. The support film thus serves to improve the mechanical durability against lateral buckling of the upholstery element. It is clear that a plurality of support films may also be present, and / or that the support film (s) may be present in different shape and / or position adapted to the respective load.

If a projecting element of a packaged item (for example a handle of a cup) plunges into a cushioning element, the compression is transferred beyond the supporting foil to the adjacent cushioning elements at a certain depth and the cushioning effect at the corresponding point during the compression is increased. The backing sheet may e.g. be attached to the tips of the cushion elements and / or over the base of the cushion elements with the cushioning means. Optionally, the support foil can also be designed as a decorative cover covering the tips of the upholstery elements.

According to a further embodiment, the packaging according to the invention and / or the cushioning means according to the invention comprises a radio chip (RFID tag). This can be used to store information, for example, of the sender, the recipient, or other data such as an identifier that identifies the person entitled to empty the padding agent.

For example, the valves or sheath may also be provided with such RFID tags or transponders, in which case their placement in the vicinity of the passage, e.g. let into the valve, is preferred. Thus, the transponders can only be removed or damaged from the inside, but are still easy to read from the outside and writable.

The valve (or possibly a hose clamp) can be designed so that the cushioning means can be emptied only from the outside and / or from inside, so after opening the packaging. It is advantageous in the case of a design which can only be emptied from the inside (for example when using a press-in hose clamp which locks after being pushed in and the lock can only be released from the inside) that the cushioning means can not be intentionally or accidentally emptied from outside.

The shell is preferably made of plastic or natural material, which is recyclable. It is advantageous if the material of the shell is flexible, but not or only slightly stretchable. The effect according to the invention, which is explained in detail in the description of the figures, does not require a stretchable material.

It is clear that preferably cut and dimensions of the shell are adapted to the packaging. Particularly preferably, the base area and the floor plan of the cushioning means corresponds to the floor plan of the (unfolded) packaging. Nevertheless, it should be noted that, within certain limits beyond the limits of prior art padding means, the cushioning means can be used for a variety of different sizes and shapes of packaging.

The process according to the invention will now be described below.

• – mindestens teilweise innenoberflächendeckendes Einlegen der Hülle in das Packmittel und ggf. Einlegen des Packgutes, sofern nicht bereits zuvor geschehen;
• – Verschließen des Packmittels (durch Schließen des Deckels und Einführen des bzw. der Verschlusselemente in den bzw. die dafür vorgesehen Spalte);
• – Befüllen der Hülle mit dem Füllmittel, so dass sich ein Polstermittel mit mindestens einem (und besonders bevorzugt einer Vielzahl von) Polsterelement(en) ergibt.

According to the invention, the method for packaging packaged goods using a packaging material and a cushioning agent according to the above definition, wherein the following steps are carried out in the order shown:

• - At least partially inner surface covering inserting the shell in the packaging and, if necessary, insert the packaged goods, if not already done before;
• - Closing of the packaging (by closing the lid and inserting the closure elements or in the intended column or);
• - Filling the envelope with the filler, so that a cushioning means with at least one (and particularly preferably a plurality of) cushioning element (s) results.

In this case, the method according to the invention is characterized in that (i) both the packaged goods are urged by the filling of the envelope in the direction of the inner side of the Packmittelwandung opposite the cushioning element and at the same time (ii) the at least one closure element folds over so far that it (preferably flat, alternatively only selectively) abuts the inside of the packaging wall and (iii) is fixed in this position by the filled casing.

In other words, by filling the envelope, the packaging space is reduced to center the package within the package, and at the same time, to clamp the preferably folded closure member so that it is securely held within the gap and prevent the lid from unintentional opening protects. In this way, the known packaging significantly improved because it can be dispensed with the use of closure aids, and thus time and cost can be saved.

Preferably, the filler is selected from the group consisting of air, air mixtures, noble gases, other gases or gas mixtures, foams, gels, liquids, compliant and / or small granular solids. However, gaseous fluids such as, in particular, air are particularly preferred as fillers since they are most suitable for filling and emptying the casing. In addition, air as a filler no storage costs, since it is available virtually everywhere and in unlimited quantities and also does not need to be disposed of properly.

According to one embodiment, all fluidically connected chambers are filled by means of a common supply line (single-chamber solution). This means that a fast and simultaneous filling (and similarly emptying) of all upholstery elements takes place.

According to another embodiment, at least two fluidly separated chambers are filled separately (multi-chamber solution). This means that greater security against damage and the associated loss of cushioning effect is given. The filling can be done for example by means of two different pumps.

But even in this case, it is possible that at least two fluidly separated chambers are filled simultaneously by the filling takes place by means of a common supply line. After filling, the chambers are fluidly separated, for example by means of kinked hoses, which are fluidically closed when inserting the filled cushioning agent in the packaging, which also brings about a buckling of the cushioning means with it and thus separate the chambers from each other. In this way, on the one hand a quick and easy filling is possible without giving up the advantage of a multi-chamber solution.

Filling may be manual (e.g., by hand pump or breathing air), semi-automatic (e.g., by a pressure vessel), or automated (e.g., by a robot). The same applies with regard to the emptying of the padding agent.

It may be advantageous that, after inserting the casing into the packaging means, a punctiform or at least partial-area fixing of the casing takes place on the inner wall of the packaging material. In this way, in particular, the not yet filled and thus unfixed shell can be kept in a desired position. This is for example in the context of storage and shipping not yet folded packaging with shell advantageous, but also in the case where the shell is difficult to fix in a position for filling optimal (filling space with small packaged goods).

As mentioned, the padding means can be filled from the inside and / or preferably from outside by machine and / or manually (for example via the mouth or by means of a preferably commercially available pump). For a corresponding passage can be omitted in the packaging. According to another embodiment, introducing a passage for the filler in the packaging means wall by means of subsequently by mechanical means, for example by means of manual pressing or turning takes place; the passage is therefore not present from the beginning in the packaging wall, but is introduced later only when needed.

As already mentioned, the packaging material according to the invention with fillable upholstery film also allows the reversal of the filling process.

Therefore, it is optionally provided that, after the intended use of the packaging, the chambers are emptied. In this way, the packaging can be folded small and stowed space saving for reuse.

Another use of the cushioning agent of the invention may be to use the cushioning means e.g. large-scale, heavy-weight goods should be laid in their position so that they can be lifted and aerated even after their installation by filling the casing (for example with foam).

In summary, the invention has two major advantages.

The filled upholstery elements do not form a defined cavity (packing space) for unpacked, closed packaging materials. Rather, the filled upholstery elements largely penetrate the packaging material space in unpacked packaging. Packaged goods usual dimensions could therefore not be inserted into the packaging without displacement of the filled upholstery elements. When filling the padding agent after the packaged goods have been introduced, the padding elements form "packable flexible" on the packaged goods, regardless of their size and shape. The upholstery is therefore universally suitable for almost all packaged package sizes and shapes. With only a small number vorzuhaltender packaging can therefore be safely padded with the invention packaged goods of different sizes and shapes.

In addition, the steps for using the packaging according to the invention are very simple. The cover is at least partially inserted inside the covering (for example shipping carton) or optionally stapled (for example with Velcro, adhesive strips, tabs, etc.), the packaged goods are added and the packaging is closed. The casing can be filled in one step in just one step (single-chamber solution). Multi-stage filling in several steps via e.g. Several valves (multi-chamber solution) are optionally possible, as well as the simultaneous filling of several, fluidically independent chambers.

figure description

1A and 1B explain the mode of action of a cushioning agent according to the invention on the basis of a force diagram and the associated dimensional designations.

2 shows an embodiment of a shell, which is designed as a single-chamber system.

3 shows details of an embodiment of the filling channels and supporting film of a single-chamber casing.

4 shows an embodiment of a shell which is designed as a two-chamber system with opposed chambers.

5 shows an embodiment of a single-chamber casing for producing mutually penetrating chambers of a two-chamber pad.

6 shows a schematic for the production of a single-chamber pad of two profiled films.

7 shows a schematic for manufacturing a two-chamber pad from two single-chamber sheaths.

8th shows a two-chamber pad with conical padding elements, a central support film and two interpenetrating chambers.

9 shows a packaging with unfilled casing, packaged goods and a passage in a perspective.

10 shows the change of the contact surfaces and the cushion volume with rotated, eccentric position of the packaged goods.

11A to 11D show a closure scheme for packaging.

12A to 12F show different geometries for a cushioning agent.

In the 1A and 1B the mode of operation of a cushioning agent according to the invention is explained on the basis of a force diagram and the associated scale designations.

Shown in the 1A two oppositely arranged, cone-shaped padding elements 12 ' . 12 '' between which a packaged goods 1 located.

The upholstery 10 is formed by a plurality of tapered cushioning members (or optionally separated) permeable to each other 12 ' . 12 '' may be formed, for example, as shown in the form of a straight cone, or in the form of an oblique cone, conical segment, ellipsoid, hyperboloid, paraboloid or portions thereof (each not shown). The crests or peaks 12B the upholstery elements 12 ' . 12 '' extend in the unpacked, closed packaging (not shown) either, as shown, in the packaging material interior, or opposite in the direction of the packaging material inner wall, or in both directions (not shown). In packed and closed packaging these form tapered upholstery elements 12 several supports between wall and packaged goods 1 (or inserted intermediate elements, not shown), and fix in their entirety the packaged goods 1 positive and non-positive in the packaging space.

Like in the 1A shown act in addition to the weight G cushioning forces F1, F2 on the packaged goods 1 , These hold the packaged goods 1 spaced from the walls of the packaging (not shown).

The two upholstery elements 12 ' . 12 '' are by means of a filling line serving as a compensation line 15 fluidly interconnected, resulting in a Pressure compensation leads. It is advantageous, the or the filling channels 15 perform such (cross-sectional area, number, course, etc.) that their flow resistance prevents too fast, temporary escape of the filler in shocks, but at the same time allows for rapid filling. In principle, non-return foils, viscous fillers, etc. may also be used (not shown in each case). Due to the sufficient flow resistance in the or the filling channels 15 it can be ensured that the internal pad pressure p in the event of a shock-related short-term change in position of the packaged goods 1 in the compressed upholstery elements 12 ' . 12 '' grows enough to catch even strong shocks.

For the case of a cushion element shown 12 ' . 12 '' in the form of a single cone, this preferably has a height of 3 to 15 cm and more preferably 5 cm, and has a base diameter (measured on the side of the base 12A ) of preferably 0.5 to 10 cm, and more preferably 4 cm. The distance to the (not shown) adjacent cone-shaped cushion element is (at the base 12A measured) preferably 0 to 15 cm and particularly preferably 0.5 to 3 cm.

The self-adjusting pressures are in the 1B shown. As can be seen, the internal pad pressure p and / or the size of the contact surface between cushioning element increases 12 ' . 12 '' and the packaged goods because of the tapered shape of the upholstery elements 12 ' . 12 '' at decreasing distance h1, h2 (= cushion element residual height) of the packaged goods 1 to the packaging material inner wall (not shown). From the known relationship F = P * A (F = force, P = pressure, A = surface), it follows that the cushioning forces F2, F1 acting from the wall in the direction of the packaging material interior also increase: the stronger the packaged goods 1 the height d in a filled upholstery element 12 ' . 12 '' dips, the stronger the cushioning forces F1, F2, the packaged goods 1 push again into the interior of the packaging; the packaged goods 1 Therefore, it depends on itself in the packaging interior, according to the shape and dimensions of the upholstery elements 12 ' . 12 '' certain position (see also 10 ).

In the illustration shown has a cushion element 12 ' . 12 '' with cone angle α a diameter 2 · r (r = base radius). By impressing his tip 12B this also has a planar configuration, with a tip diameter of 2 · r1 or 2 · r2 (r1, r2 = tip radius). Due to the weight force (not shown), the second, lower cushioning element 12 '' pushed further than the first, upper padding element 12 ' , Thus, the cushioning element residual height h1 of the lower cushioning member 12 '' less than the cushion element residual height h2 of the upper cushion member 12 ' , Analogous to this is the compression path s1 of the lower padding element 12 '' greater than the compression path s2 of the upper cushion member 12 ' ,

In other words, the inner pad pressure p of the upper padding element 12 ' is because of the permeable connection (filling channel 15 ) between the upper and the lower pad member at rest equal to the pad internal pressure p of the lower pad member 12 '' , Are all walls of a packaging (not shown) with a cushioning agent 12 ' . 12 '' of the same profile (eg straight taper of the same dimensions) designed and sufficiently filled, then the internal pad pressure p at rest position of the packaged goods 1 (h1 = h2) lowest. The stronger the packaged goods 1 leaves its rest position (the larger the difference between s1 and s2 is), the lower the inner volume of the cushioning agent 12 ' . 12 '' , And thus at the same time the inner pad pressure p is greater. In this respect, so can of a "progressive" behavior of the upholstery agent 12 ' . 12 '' to be spoken.

Due to the tapered shape of the upholstery elements 12 ' . 12 '' becomes the lower upholstery element 12 '' However, never be compressed so far that the cushion element residual height h2 is zero, so that the packaged 1 would collide with the inner wall (not shown) of the packaging.

At the same time, the "self-alignment" in addition to a sufficient wall spacing also ensures that when filling the upholstery elements 12 ' . 12 '' possibly through the packaged goods 1 clamped filling channels 15 be exposed. As a result, the upholstery elements of all walls can fill evenly.

In the 2 is an embodiment of a filled cushioning agent 10 shown. The cushioning means is shown in the extended state, and can be folded so that it is in a cuboid packaging means (not shown) can be inserted. It has a plurality of pointed cone-shaped padding elements 12 on.

The cushioning means is designed as a single-chamber system. That means all upholstery elements 12 by means of a common filling channel (not shown) are simultaneously filled and fluidly communicate with each other, so that the above-mentioned pressure equalization results.

In the 3 Details of an embodiment of the filling channels and supporting film of a single-chamber casing are shown. The support film also forms the base of the profile elements and is provided in this embodiment, to enclose the packaged. This has the advantage that protruding elements of the packaged goods (eg the handle of a cup), on the support sheet on several upholstery elements interact and thus be specially protected. Each profile element is supplied by four filling channels, so that even when disconnecting a filling channel, the other are still active.

It is beneficial to the filling channels 15 as a widely branched network with multiple branches. The figure outlines a possible networked embodiment in which the padding elements 12 several, usually four filling channels 15 have. This ensures that even when disconnecting up to three filling channels 15 the respective upholstery element 12 still remains supplied. In addition, the centering effect (see above) contributes to the filling channels 15 expose when filling by itself.

In the 4 is an embodiment of a cushioning agent 10 shown, which consists of two separate covers 11 consists. The upholstery 10 is therefore designed as a two-chamber system with opposite chambers K1, K2. The upwardly facing first upholstery elements 12 ' the first chamber K1 point in the opposite direction of the second cushion elements 12 '' the second chamber K2. In this way, a system is provided which, in addition to the centering effect, is also safer against damage which would lead to complete failure in a single-chamber system.

In the 5 is an embodiment of a single-chamber casing 11 represented, which is suitable for the production of a first chamber K1 two mutually penetrating chambers of a two-chamber cushioning means. By providing a further sheath (not shown) which conforms to the one in the 5 Having shown circular recesses cushioning elements, these upholstery elements can be inserted through the recesses, so that there is a two-chamber system, which in both directions padding elements 12 ' . 12 '' having.

In the 6 a scheme for manufacturing a single-chamber cushioning means from two profiled films is shown.

Accordingly, the production of the shell 11 take place by these from a first and a second film 11 ' . 11 '' (or a blown film cover) with embossed, the upholstery elements 12 ' . 12 '' resulting profile elements are joined together in such a way that the upholstery elements 12 ' . 12 '' facing each other in mirror image. By assembling the profiled foils 11 ' . 11 '' this creates a shell 11 , which in the filled state a cushioning agent 10 forms, whose upholstery elements 12 ' . 12 '' the profile elements of the films 11 ' . 11 '' correspond. It can at the same time between the profile elements, the filling channels 15 be spared.

In the 7 a scheme for the production of a two-chamber pad from two single-chamber cases is shown.

So that the chambers K1, K2 of two fluidly separated systems can penetrate one another, recesses for the profiles of the chambers of the respective other system are to be provided.

By putting together two single-chamber cases 11 ' . 11 '' with each matching recesses (holes, shown in phantom) can then be a penetrating two-chamber cushioning agent 10 be made.

In principle, an embodiment of two or more, clamped chambers K1, K2 is preferred. It is advantageous if the filled chambers K1, K2 permeate in such a way that each chamber has enough supports or padding elements for itself 12 ' . 12 '' between goods to be packaged and walls (not shown in each case) forms in order to secure on its own a viable centering of the packaged goods. Thus, the cushioning effect and the centering effect remains largely even when emptying a single chamber K1 or K2.

The upholstery elements can be the same or different in shape and dimensions as shown. However, the shown recurring sequence of uniform padding elements of the same dimensions is advantageous in order to ensure the most centric, and thus shock-proof alignment of the packaged goods in the packaging material space.

In the 8th is such a two-chamber pad with conical padding elements 12 . 12 '' , a central support foil 14 and two penetrating chambers K1, K2 are shown in perspective view.

In the 9 is a packaging 2 with unfilled envelope 11 , Packaged goods 1 and a passage 16 presented in a perspective.

It should be noted that all common packaging 2 in conjunction with the proposed cushioning agent 10 used, provided they withstand the pad internal pressure as possible without deformation. In this respect, in addition to packaging 2 made of cardboard and those of plywood or plastic preferably used. An embodiment with an easily foldable and unfoldable packaging is advantageous 2 , So can the packaging 2 together with the shell 11 save space and easily reused at any time.

In the 10 is the change in the contact surfaces and the inner volume of the pad rotated, eccentric position of the packaged goods 1 (eg when filling or at impact) shown.

Are the upholstery elements 12 ' . 12 '' in the form and dimension equal to opposite walls, so the packaged goods 1 aligned during filling under sufficient pressure such that the average distance h1 of the outer contour of the packaged goods 1 to a Packmittelwandung is approximately equal to the mean distance h2 to the opposite wall. Thus, the packaged goods 1 when filling in such a way that the distances h1 and h2 are approximately equal. The packaged goods 1 Centered in this particular embodiment, therefore, approximately by itself in the packaging space.

11 shows a closure scheme for a packaging 2 ,

The packaged goods 1 is inside the packaging 2 ( 11A ). The lid 7 it is already closed, and a closure element 3 ' , which has the shape of a tab, is passed through a gap provided for this purpose 4 guided ( 11B ).

Then takes place by means of a supply line 13 passing through an aperture 16 is performed, a filling of the cushioning agent 10 which the packaged goods 1 from the top wall B1 or the walls B1, B2, the side walls C, D and the bottom A away in the center of the packaging 2 suppressed. At the same time, the cushioning agent is supported on the packaged goods 1 and on itself (touching tips) in such a way that the first still vacant cavity immediately below the lid 7 is filled ( 11C ). In this case, the closure element 3 ' folded over so that it is no longer out of the gap 4 can remove what is in detail in 11D can be seen.

Accordingly, the packaging must 2 with one or more tabs (closure element 3 ' ) be provided on the cover wall B1, so that after closing the lid 7 in or at the appropriate place provided for gap (e) 4 the side wall D is sufficiently low feasible or are, so they come to rest between the walls B3 and B2. The closure elements 3 ' are in shape and size and folding in so interpreted that these of the top wall B1 when filling the cushioning agent 10 if possible, 180 degrees around the gap 4 be pulled around in wall D so that the lid 7 automatically locked in such a way that a nondestructive opening of the packaging only after the previous partial emptying of the cushioning agent 10 is possible. The attachment of sealing aids for closing the packaging 2 , Such as adhesive strips or cords, can thus be completely eliminated.

For the case of a friction instead of a positive connection, which is not shown, the preferably horizontally extending gap is 4 to provide at the transition between the cover wall B1 and the side wall D overlapping part of the lid, so that the closure means rests directly on the wall B2 without bending over and is pressed against the same when filling the cushioning means. Alternatively, the closure means can also from above through the lid 7 be plugged so that it rests against the inside of the wall D (variant also not shown).

Advantageously, the distance between gap 4 and lid edge as large as possible, but smaller than twice the minimum cushion center thickness. In addition, the threading is facilitated when the tabs firmly clamped wall B3 as horizontal as possible on the packaged goods 1 rests.

For the above closure principle, the presently proposed cushioning agent may be particularly preferred 10 be used; However, the locking mechanism also works with other, already known, externally fillable cushioning agents.

In the 12A to 12F ( 12A = upper row left, 12F = lower row on the right) a selection of possible geometries for a cushioning means is shown. 12A shows a simple, straight cone. 12B shows an (upside-down) paraboloid. 12C shows a saddle-shaped geometry. 12D shows a double truncated cone. 12E shows a crooked, cone-like body with non-circular base. 12F shows a tubular body with a parabolic cross-section.

LIST OF REFERENCE NUMBERS

1

packaged goods

2

packaging

3

closure means

3 '

closure element

4

gap

5

Packaging interior

6

Predetermined breaking point

7

cover

8th

front wall

9A, 9B

 Side wall

10

cushioning material

11

shell

11 '

first slide

11 ''

second slide

12

cushion element

12 '

first / upper padding element

12 ''

second / lower cushioning element

12A

Floor space

12B

top

13

supply

14

supporting film

15

filling channel

16

passage

F

fillers

H

Height (of a cushion element)

h1, h2

 Distance, cushion element residual height

r

base radius

r1, r2

 tip radius

α

cone angle

H

Packaging-interior height

d

Height of the packaged goods

K1, K2

 chamber

G

weight force

F1, F2

 cushion force

p

Cushion pressure

A

ground

B1

cover wall

B2, B3

 wall

C, D

sidewall

QUOTES INCLUDE IN THE DESCRIPTION

This list of the documents listed by the applicant has been generated automatically and is included solely for the better information of the reader. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions.

Cited patent literature

• US 4905835 [0018]
• US 5348157 [0018]
• US 5588533 [0018]
• US 5862914 [0018]
• DE 89061640 U1 [0019]
• US 2003/0006162 A1 [0020]
• DE 102005057540 A1 [0020]
• EP 231638 A2 [0023]
• DE 8807679 U1 [0023]

Claims (20)

Packaging for packing of packaged goods ( 1 ) of different size, comprising a packaging material formed from a plurality of packaging medium walls ( 2 ), a filling means (F) fillable means for reducing the packing space, as well as closure means ( 3 ) for closing the packaging ( 2 ), the closure means ( 3 ) at least one closure element ( 3 ' ), which by an associated, in a packaging wall ( 8A . 8B . 9 ) arranged gap ( 4 ) into a packaging material interior ( 5 ) and there so far along a predetermined kink ( 6 ) is umknickbar around a packaging wall and / or can be approached to the packaging wall, that it can be fixed by filling the means for reducing the packing space in the folded or approximated position. Packaging according to claim 1, wherein the packaging means ( 2 ) a lid ( 7 ), a front wall ( 8th ) and at least one side wall ( 9A / 9B ), and wherein the closure element ( 3 ' ) at the front and / or side edge of the lid ( 7 ), and wherein the gap ( 4 ) parallel to the predetermined bending point ( 6 ) and in the region of the front and / or side wall ( 8th . 9A . 9B ) is arranged. Packaging according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the closure element ( 3 ' ) is rectangular or tapered. Packaging according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the gap ( 4 ) runs horizontally. Packaging according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the means for reducing the packing space comprises a cushioning agent ( 10 ). Cushioning agent ( 10 ) for a package according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the cushioning means ( 10 ) at least one in the packaging ( 2 ) insertable sleeve ( 11 ), which forms a closed volume and consists of an at least partially flexible material, wherein from the shell ( 11 ) at least one chamber (K1 / K2) is formed, which in the filled state, an elastic body in the form of a plurality of tapered outholstered elements ( 12 ), each having a base area ( 12A ) and a tip ( 12B ), and wherein the cushion elements ( 12 ) have a height (H) which corresponds to at least one fifth of the inner dimension of the packaging, which is collinear to the longitudinal axis of the padding elements ( 12 ), and wherein the padding elements ( 12 ) also within the packaging ( 2 ) are positionable such that their tips ( 12B ) in the filled state in and / or counter to the direction of the packaging interior. Cushioning agent ( 10 ) according to claim 6, wherein the shape of the cushion element ( 12 ) is selected from the group consisting of pointed cones, hemispheres, paraboloids, hyperboloids, tetrahedra, pyramids, as well as combinations thereof and stumps of these bodies, tubes with a conical, hemispherical, parabolic, hyperbolic-triangular cross-section, and combinations and Sections of this. Cushioning agent ( 10 ) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein it has a plurality of chambers (K1, K2), which are fluidically connected to each other. Cushioning agent ( 10 ) according to claim 6 or 7, wherein it has a plurality of chambers (K1, K2), of which at least two are fluidically separated from each other. Cushioning agent ( 10 ) according to one of claims 8 or 9, wherein the chambers (K1, K2) via supply lines ( 13 ) are fluidly connected with each other and / or with the outside world either directly or via a valve device, and / or can be filled via a pressure vessel, and / or can be emptied passively or actively. Cushioning agent ( 10 ) according to one of claims 6 to 10, wherein a cushioning element ( 12 ) at least one support film ( 14 ), with which on the cushion element ( 12 ) acting forces are at least partially derivable. Method for packing packaged goods ( 1 ) using a packaging ( 2 ) according to one of claims 1 to 5 and a cushioning agent ( 10 ) according to any one of claims 6 to 11, wherein the following steps are carried out in this order: - at least partially inner surface covering insertion of the shell ( 11 ) in the packaging ( 2 ) and, if necessary, inserting the packaged goods ( 1 ), if not already done before; - closing the packaging ( 2 ); - filling the envelope ( 11 ) with the filler (F), so I use a cushioning agent ( 10 ) with at least one padding element ( 12 ) results; characterized in that (i) by filling the envelope ( 11 ) both the packaged goods ( 1 ) in the direction of the cushion element ( 12 ) is urged against the opposite inner side of the packaging wall and at the same time (ii) the at least one closure element ( 3 ' ) so far that it rests on the inside of the packaging wall and (iii) in this position of the filled casing ( 11 ) is fixed. The method of claim 12, wherein the filler (F) is selected from the group consisting of air, air mixtures, noble gases, other gases or gas mixtures, foams, gels, liquids, compliant and / or small-particle solids. A method according to claim 12 or 13, wherein all fluidically coherent chambers (K1, K2) by means of a common feed line ( 13 ). The method of claim 12 or 13, wherein at least two fluidly separated chambers (K1, K2) are filled separately from each other. The method of claim 12 or 13, wherein at least two fluidly separated chambers (K1, K2) are filled simultaneously. Method according to one of claims 12 to 16, wherein the filling takes place manually, semi-automatically or automatically. Method according to one of claims 12 to 17, wherein after inserting the envelope ( 11 ) in the packaging ( 2 ) a partial or at least selective fixing of the shell ( 11 ) on the inner wall of the packaging ( 2 ) he follows. Method according to one of claims 12 to 18, wherein an introduction of a passage for the filler (F) in the packaging material wall is subsequently carried out by mechanical means. Method according to one of claims 12 to 19, wherein after the intended use of the packaging ( 2 ) emptying of the chambers (K1, K2) takes place.

Images