Packaging material, packaging body, module assembly and packaging method of modules

Abstract

Provided is a packaging material capable of suppressing breakage of a top cover portion of a module and breakage of a packaging bag that packages the module. A packaging material (1) for packaging a module (M) having a cylindrical main body portion (M1) and a top cover portion (M2) attached to both end portions of the main body portion (M1) in the longitudinal direction into a case (B), wherein the packaging material (1) includes: a main body portion support surface (10) that at least partially supports a lower surface (M11) of the main body portion (M1) of the module (M) in a horizontal state; a main body portion support wall (20) that supports both side surfaces (M12) of the main body portion (M1) of the module (M) in a manner of sandwiching the side surfaces (M12); and a top surface support wall (30) that supports a top surface (M22) of the top cover portion (M2) of the module (M) on both sides, and the packaging material (1) is configured so that, when the module (M) is supported by the main body portion support surface (10), the main body portion support wall (20), and the top surface support wall (30), the packaging material (1) does not come into contact with a side surface (M21) of the top cover portion (M2) of the module.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to packaging materials, packaging bodies, modular components, and packaging methods for modules. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, when implementing blood purification methods such as hemodialysis and plasma exchange, membrane modules (where a hollow fiber membrane or other treatment membrane is internally incorporated) and adsorption modules (where an adsorbent such as microbeads is internally incorporated) were used (hereafter, they are sometimes collectively referred to as "modules"). Currently, various packaging materials have been proposed and put into practical use, which prevent the modules from directly contacting each other inside the box or prevent the ends of the modules from directly contacting the inner wall of the box, thereby suppressing damage to the modules due to vibration and impact during transport (see, for example, Patent Documents 1 and 2).

[0003] Existing technical documents

[0004] Patent documents

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 9-216658

[0006] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2014-201346 Summary of the Invention

[0007] The problem the invention aims to solve

[0008] Furthermore, modules are typically transported in a packaged state, but when conventional packaging materials as described in Patent Documents 1 and 2 are used, the module comes into strong contact with the packaging material or wrinkles easily form in the packaging bag, resulting in the packaging bag being easily damaged. In addition, when the module has a top cover with a complex shape (e.g., multiple protrusions and recesses on the side), there is a tendency for its strength to decrease due to impacts during transport. Therefore, it is desirable to develop improved packaging materials.

[0009] The present invention was made in view of this situation, and its object is to provide a packaging material that can suppress damage to the top cover of the module and suppress damage to the packaging bag of the packaging module.

[0010] Solution for solving the problem

[0011] To achieve the aforementioned objective, the present invention provides a packaging material for packaging a module having a cylindrical main body and top covers mounted at both ends of the main body in the longitudinal direction into a box. The packaging material comprises: a main body support surface that at least partially supports the lower surface of the main body of the module in a horizontal position; a main body support wall that supports the two sides of the main body of the module in a horizontal position by clamping the two sides; and a top support wall that supports the top surfaces of the top covers on both sides of the module in a horizontal position. The packaging material is configured such that when the module is supported by the main body support surface, the main body support wall, and the top support wall, the packaging material does not contact the sides of the top covers.

[0012] When this structure is adopted, since the lower surface of the main body of the module, which is in a horizontal position, can be at least partially supported by the main body support surface, and the two sides of the main body of the module can be supported by the main body support wall in a manner that clamps the two sides of the main body of the module, movement of the module in the left-right direction (a direction perpendicular to the length direction of the module) can be suppressed. Furthermore, since the top surfaces of the top covers on both sides of the horizontally positioned module can be supported by the top surface support wall, movement of the module in the length direction can be suppressed. Additionally, since the packaging material does not contact the sides of the top cover of the module when the module is supported by the main body support surface, the main body support wall, and the top surface support wall, damage to the sides of the top cover of the module itself or damage to the packaging bag covering the sides of the top cover can be prevented.

[0013] In the packaging material of the present invention, legs can be provided that protrude downwards from the supporting surface of the main body. In this case, the legs can be positioned below the main body of the module.

[0014] When this structure is adopted, since the legs are provided in a manner that protrude downwards from the main body support surface and are located below the main body of the module, when the packaging material is placed inside the box or on the shelf, the deformation (strain) of the packaging material can be suppressed and the packaging material can be placed in a stable state.

[0015] In the packaging material of the present invention, the legs can be positioned approximately at the center of the module in the width direction supported by the main body support surface.

[0016] When this structure is adopted, since the legs are arranged approximately at the center of the module in the width direction supported by the main body support surface, the weight of the module can be supported directly below the module (approximately at the center in the width direction). Therefore, deformation (strain) of the packaging material can be suppressed.

[0017] In the packaging material of the present invention, multiple legs can be provided along the length direction of the module supported by the main body support surface. In this case, the multiple legs can be arranged approximately symmetrically about the approximate center portion of the module's length direction.

[0018] When this structure is adopted, since multiple legs are provided along the length of the module supported by the main body support surface, and these multiple legs are arranged approximately symmetrically with respect to the approximate center of the module's length direction, the weight of the module can be distributed and the module can be supported by the packaging material as a whole. Therefore, the force will not be biased towards a single part of the packaging material, and deformation (strain) of the packaging material can be suppressed.

[0019] In the packaging material of the present invention, multiple main body support surfaces can be separately provided in such a way that multiple portions along the length direction of the lower surface of the main body of the module are supported. In this case, the main body support wall and the legs can be arranged between adjacent main body support surfaces and connected by a continuous surface.

[0020] When this structure is adopted, by separately providing multiple main body support surfaces, the lower surface of the main body of the module can be supported at multiple locations along the length direction. In addition, since the main body support walls and legs arranged between adjacent main body support surfaces are connected by continuous surfaces, the rigidity and strength of the packaging can be improved.

[0021] In the packaging material of the present invention, the main body support surface, the main body support wall, the top support wall and the legs can be integrally formed.

[0022] When this structure is adopted, since all the components of the packaging material (main body support surface, main body support wall, top support wall, and legs) are integrally formed, it is easier to manufacture compared to connecting separate parts. Furthermore, because the packaging material is integrated, it is easy to handle and facilitates packaging and disassembly operations.

[0023] In the packaging material of the present invention, when a second packaging material is stacked on top of a module supported by a first packaging material, the legs can be configured such that the legs of the second packaging material at least partially support the upper surface of the main body of the module.

[0024] When this structure is adopted, the lower surface of the main body of the module can be supported by the main support surface of the first packaging material, and the upper surface of the main body of the module can be supported by the legs of the second packaging material, thus clamping the module from both above and below. Therefore, it is possible to suppress the module from moving in the vertical direction.

[0025] In the packaging material of the present invention, it is possible to configure such that when a second packaging material is stacked on top of a module supported by a first packaging material and the legs of the second packaging material at least partially support the upper surface of the main body of the module, the second packaging material does not contact the side of the top cover of the module.

[0026] When this structure is adopted, since the second packaging material is stacked on top of the module supported by the first packaging material, and the legs of the second packaging material at least partially support the upper surface of the main body of the module, the second packaging material does not contact the side of the top cover of the module. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the packaging bag covering the side of the top cover of the module from being trapped between the side and the second packaging material and becoming wrinkled or damaged. In addition, it is possible to prevent the following situation: when a large impact is applied in the vertical direction when the module is placed on the second packaging material, the side of the top cover of the module disposed on the first packaging material and the side of the top cover of the module disposed on the second packaging material will contact each other through the second packaging material and be impacted, causing them to break.

[0027] In the packaging material of the present invention, when the module has a protruding plug protruding from the side of the top cover, an area for receiving the protruding plug can be formed between the first packaging material and the second packaging material.

[0028] When this structure is used, it can prevent the following situations: the protruding plug being pressed by the packaging material and impacted, causing the protruding plug to break or the packaging bag around the protruding plug to break.

[0029] In the packaging material of the present invention, at least a portion of the main body support surface is made flat, and the main body support wall is arranged substantially perpendicular to the flat surface.

[0030] When this structure is adopted, since the main body support wall is arranged substantially perpendicularly to the flat surface that constitutes at least a part of the main body support surface, the module can be supported as if the main body of the module were housed in a box having a bottom surface (the flat surface of the main body support surface) and two sides (the main body support wall) that are substantially perpendicularly connected to the bottom surface.

[0031] In the packaging material of the present invention, when the top surface of the top cover of the module has a flat surface portion that is substantially orthogonal to the length direction of the module and an axial portion that protrudes from the flat surface portion along the length direction of the module, the top surface support wall is capable of supporting at least the portion of the flat surface portion of the top surface that is below the axial portion.

[0032] When this structure is adopted, the top support wall can support at least one portion (one part) of the flat surface of the top surface of the module's top cover, located below the shaft portion. Therefore, compared to the conventional method of supporting only two portions (two parts) of the flat surface of the top surface located to the side of the shaft portion, the flat surface of the top surface can be supported over a wider area. Furthermore, when the top cover of the module is covered with a packaging bag, the top surface of the top cover can be supported in a relatively flat state (a state less prone to wrinkles), thus preventing damage to the packaging bag.

[0033] In the packaging material of the present invention, a module support portion can be provided, which has a main body support surface, a main body support wall, and a top support wall, and supports a single module. In this case, multiple module support portions can be provided in a manner that supports multiple modules in a state of parallel arrangement. At this time, it is possible to configure the top cover portions of adjacent modules so that, when each module support portion supports a module, the sides of the top cover portions of adjacent modules do not contact each other.

[0034] When this structure is adopted, it is configured such that when modules are supported by multiple module support sections, the sides of the top covers of adjacent modules do not contact each other. Therefore, it prevents the packaging bag covering the sides of the module's top cover from being damaged due to contact between the sides of the top covers. Furthermore, it prevents the following situation: when a large impact is applied in the lateral direction while placing the module in the packaging material, the sides of the top covers of the module and the sides of the top covers of adjacent modules placed in the packaging material from contacting and being impacted, thus preventing them from being damaged.

[0035] In the packaging material of the present invention, when modules are supported by each module support portion, it is possible to configure such that there are no partition walls between the sides of the top cover portions of adjacent modules.

[0036] When this structure is adopted, since there are no partition walls between the sides of the top cover of adjacent modules when the modules are supported by multiple module support parts, it is possible to prevent the packaging bag covering the side of the top cover of the module from being damaged by partition walls. In addition, the lateral dimension of the packaging material can be shortened accordingly to avoid the absence of partition walls, allowing for compact storage of the modules.

[0037] Furthermore, the packaging body of the present invention provides a packaging body comprising the packaging material already described and a box for storing the packaging material. This packaging body may include a spacer member that seals the gap formed between the upper surface of the main body of the module supported by the packaging material and the inner surface of the box opposite the upper surface of the same main body.

[0038] When this structure is adopted, the vertical movement of the module can be suppressed because the gap formed between the upper surface of the main body of the module supported by the packaging material and the inner surface of the box opposite to the upper surface can be sealed by the spacer member. In addition, when stacking multiple layers of modules supported by packaging material, the vertical movement of the whole can also be suppressed.

[0039] In addition, the present invention provides a modular assembly, wherein the modular assembly comprises a module and has the packaging material already described, the module having a cylindrical main body and top caps mounted at both ends of the main body in the length direction.

[0040] Furthermore, the present invention provides a method for packaging a module in which a module having a cylindrical main body and top covers mounted at both ends of the main body along its length are packaged into a box using a packaging material as described above. The method involves using the main body support surface of the packaging material to at least partially support the lower surface of the main body of the module, which is in a horizontal position; using the main body support wall of the packaging material to support the two sides of the main body of the module in a horizontal position; and using the top support wall of the packaging material to support the top surfaces of the top covers on both sides of the module in a horizontal position. When the module is supported by the main body support surface, the main body support wall, and the top support wall of the packaging material, the packaging material does not contact the sides of the top covers of the module.

[0041] The effects of the invention

[0042] According to the present invention, a packaging material is provided that can suppress damage to the top cover of the module and damage to the packaging bag of the packaging module. Attached Figure Description

[0043] Figure 1 This is a perspective view of the packaging material according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] Figure 2 This is a perspective view showing the state of the module after it has been supported by the packaging material according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] Figure 3 This is a plan view (top view) of the packaging material of the embodiment of the present invention after being stacked in three layers in the vertical direction.

[0046] Figure 4 yes Figure 3 A cross-sectional view along line IV-IV.

[0047] Figure 5 yes Figure 3 A cross-sectional view along the VV line.

[0048] Figure 6 yes Figure 3A sectional view along line VI-VI.

[0049] Figure 7 This is a right view of the packaging material of the embodiment of the present invention after being stacked in three layers in the vertical direction (from...). Figure 3 (The diagram observed in the direction of arrow VII).

[0050] Figure 8 This is a left view (from) the packaging material of the embodiment of the present invention after being stacked in three layers in the vertical direction. Figure 3 (The diagram observed in the direction of arrow VIII).

[0051] Figure 9 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the outline of the packaging body for explaining embodiments of the present invention. Detailed Implementation

[0052] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0053] First, use Figures 1 to 8 To illustrate the structure of packaging material 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention. Packaging material 1 in this embodiment is used, for example, to package membrane modules (modules) M used in blood purification methods such as hemodialysis therapy and plasma exchange therapy, as well as in virus removal and water purification treatment of biopharmaceuticals and blood products, into box B (see reference). Figure 9 Furthermore, the packaging material of the present invention can be used not only for packaging film modules M, but also for packaging adsorption modules containing adsorbents such as microbeads internally.

[0054] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, the module M packaged by the packaging material 1 of this embodiment has a cylindrical main body M1, a top cover M2 mounted on both ends along the length direction L of the main body M1, and a protruding pin M3 protruding from the side M21 of the top cover M2. The top surface M22 of the top cover M2 of the module M has a flat surface portion M221 that is approximately orthogonal to the length direction L of the module M, and a shaft portion M222 protruding from the flat surface portion M221 along the length direction L of the module M. The packaging material 1 and the module M constitute a module assembly.

[0055] like Figures 4-8 As shown, the packaging material 1 is configured to be stacked in the vertical direction H. In the following description, to distinguish between the two packaging materials 1 stacked in the vertical direction H, the packaging material 1 disposed below is referred to as "first packaging material 1A", and "A" is added to the end of the reference numerals of each structure of the first packaging material 1A. On the other hand, the packaging material 1 disposed above is referred to as "second packaging material 1B", and "B" is added to the end of the reference numerals of each structure of the second packaging material 1B.

[0056] like Figure 1 As shown, the packaging material 1 includes a plurality of module support portions 2 that support individual modules M. These plurality of module support portions 2 are arranged along a transverse direction (orthogonal to the length direction L of the module M) W, so as to support the plurality of modules M in a state of parallel arrangement. In this embodiment, as... Figure 2 As shown, an example of packaging material 1 with four modular support portions 2 is illustrated, but the number of modular support portions 2 is not limited to this.

[0057] When module M is supported by each module support part 2, such as Figure 2 and Figure 5 As shown, there are no partition walls between the side surfaces M21 of the top cover M2 of adjacent modules M, and the side surfaces M21 of the top cover M2 of adjacent modules M do not contact each other.

[0058] Each module support 2 of the packaging material 1 has a main body support surface 10, a main body support wall 20, a top support wall 30, and legs 40.

[0059] The main body support surface 10 functions to at least partially support the lower surface M11 of the main body M1 of the module M, which is positioned horizontally. For example... Figure 6 As shown, multiple main body support surfaces 10 are provided separately to support multiple portions of the lower surface M11 of the main body M1 of module M along the length direction L. One main body support surface 10 (the surface that supports approximately the central portion of the lower surface M11 of the main body M1 of module M along the length direction L) is a flat surface 11. When module M is placed in a packaging bag, module M makes point contact with the flat surface 11, thus creating space on its left and right sides, making it less prone to wrinkling in the packaging bag. In this embodiment, as... Figure 6 As shown, three main body support surfaces 10 are provided, and one of the main body support surfaces 10 (the surface located approximately at the center in the length direction L) is designated as a flat surface 11. However, the number of main body support surfaces 10 and the flat surface 11, as well as the position of the flat surface 11, are not limited to this. The ratio of the total length of the main body support surfaces 10 in the length direction L to the distance between the top support wall 30 in the length direction L of the packaging material 1 and the support surface 10 is preferably 30% or more.

[0060] The main body support wall 20 functions as follows: it supports the two side surfaces M12 of the main body M1 of the module M, which is positioned horizontally, by clamping them together. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the main body support wall 20 is arranged substantially perpendicularly to the flat surface 11 of the main body support surface 10. In this embodiment, as... Figure 1As shown, the main body support wall 20 is provided in two separate locations along the length direction L, supporting two portions of the two sides M12 of the main body M1. Thus, in this embodiment, since the main body support wall 20 is not provided at approximately the center in the length direction L, it is easier to place the module M on the packaging material 1 during packaging operations.

[0061] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the two main body support walls 20 along the length direction L are arranged approximately symmetrically with their approximate center portion in the length direction L as the center. Each of the two main body support walls 20 along the length direction L has a recess 21 for increasing strength. The number and shape of the main body support walls 20 are not limited thereto, but in order to suppress movement of the module M in the width direction W, the height of the main body support walls 20 (in...) Figure 4 The dimension indicated by reference numeral T in the accompanying drawings (i.e., the dimension from the lowest part of the main body support surface 10 to the highest part of the main body support wall 20 in the vertical direction H) is preferably set to 50% or more of the diameter of the main body M1 of module M. Furthermore, the height of the main body support 20 can be set to 50% or more of the distance between adjacent main body support walls 20, regardless of the diameter of the main body M1 of module M. More preferably, the height of the main body support wall 20 is set to 55% or more of the diameter of the main body M1 of module M (and / or the distance between adjacent main body support walls 20), and even more preferably, to 60% or more. Additionally, considering the ease of removal of module M and the ease of manufacturing of packaging material 1, the height of the main body support wall 20 is preferably set to 150% or less of the diameter of the main body M1 of module M (and / or the distance between adjacent main body support walls 20), more preferably 100% or less, and even more preferably 75% or less. In addition, the total length of the main body support wall 20 along the length direction L is not particularly limited, but it can be appropriately set considering the ease of placement of the module M during packaging operations, the formation of an air exhaust channel inside the packaging bag when the module M is put into the packaging bag, and the strength of the main body support wall 20.

[0062] The top support wall 30 functions to support the top surface M22 of the top cover portion M2 on both sides of the module M, which is in a horizontal position. For example... Figure 6As shown, in this embodiment, the top support wall 30 is configured to support a relatively large portion (one part) of the flat surface portion M221 of the top surface M22 of the top cover portion M2 of the module M, which is located below the shaft portion M222. Therefore, compared to supporting a relatively narrow portion (two parts) of the flat surface portion M221 of the top surface M22 located to the side of the shaft portion M222, the flat surface portion M221 of the top surface M22 can be supported over a larger area. Furthermore, when the top cover portion M2 of the module M is covered with a packaging bag, the top surface M22 of the top cover portion M2 can be supported in a relatively flat state (a state less prone to wrinkles), thus preventing damage to the packaging bag.

[0063] In this embodiment, when the main body M1 of module M is supported by the main body support surface 10, the main body support wall 20, and the top support wall 30, as follows: Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the packaging material 1 does not contact the side M21 of the top cover M2 of module M (that is, a gap is formed between the side M21 of the top cover M2 of module M and the packaging material 1).

[0064] The leg 40 is designed to protrude downwards from the main body support surface 10, so as to function by means of support modules M such as the main body support surface 10. For example... Figure 6 As shown, in this embodiment, multiple (four) legs 40 are provided along the length direction of the module M supported by the main body support surface 10. These four legs 40 are arranged approximately symmetrically with respect to the approximate center portion in the length direction L of the module M. In addition, the legs 40 are disposed below the main body M1 of the module M supported by the main body support surface 10, and are disposed approximately at the center portion in the width direction (lateral direction W) of the module M.

[0065] In this embodiment, such as Figure 4 and Figure 6 As shown, when a second packaging material 1B is stacked on top of a module M supported by a first packaging material 1A, the legs 40B of the second packaging material 1B are arranged such that they at least partially support the upper surface M13 of the main body M1 of the module M (the legs 40B at least partially abut against the upper surface M13 of the module M). In this embodiment, since there are four legs 40, the upper surface M13 of the module M is supported at four locations (and abuts against the upper surface M13 of the module M at four locations).

[0066] The number and shape of the legs 40 are not limited to these. The length and area of ​​the mounting surface of the legs 40 along the length direction L can be set within the range that can support the weight of the module M when subjected to impact. In addition, when two or more layers are stacked, it is preferable to set the length and area of ​​the legs 40B in such a way that when the module M is put into a packaging bag and there is air in the packaging bag, the packaging bag can be placed between the legs 40B of the upper packaging material 1B and the upper legs 40B can be set on the main body M1 without floating.

[0067] In addition, in this embodiment, such as Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, when a second packaging material 1B is stacked on top of a module M supported by a first packaging material 1A, and the legs 40B of the second packaging material 1B at least partially support the upper surface M13 of the main body M1 of the module M (when the legs 40B at least partially abut against the upper surface M13 of the module M), the second packaging material 1B does not contact the side M21 of the top cover M2 of the module M, and at this time, as Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, region A is formed between the first packaging material 1A and the second packaging material 1B, where the protruding plug M3 of the receiving module M is formed. Furthermore, when the protruding plug M3 of the module M, positioned near the outer periphery of the packaging material 1, is set horizontally, the outer periphery of the packaging material 1 is preferably located outside the top end of the protruding plug M3. This prevents damage to the protruding plug M3 caused by it protruding outwards from the outer periphery of the packaging material 1.

[0068] like Figure 3 As shown, the packaging material 1 of this embodiment is configured to be left-right symmetrical in the length direction L of module M (i.e., linearly symmetrical across the center line in the length direction L) when viewed from above, and is also configured to be left-right symmetrical in the lateral direction W (i.e., linearly symmetrical across the center line in the width direction W). By configuring the packaging material 1 in such a symmetrical shape, it is advantageous to facilitate the packaging operation of module M and the stacking operation of packaging materials 1 with each other.

[0069] In addition, such as Figures 1-3 As shown, in this embodiment, a recess 50 is provided approximately at the center of the length direction L of the module M on the outer periphery of the packaging material 1 when viewed from above. By providing such a recess 50 on the outer periphery of the packaging material 1, it is easier for operators to hold the packaging material 1 by hand and to easily insert and remove the packaging material 1 relative to the box B. This provides the advantage of facilitating the packaging operation of the module M and the removal operation of the module M from the box B.

[0070] The main body support surface 10, main body support wall 20, top support wall 30, and leg 40 of each module support part 2 are integrally formed using conventional pulp molding, injection molding, or other methods. Additionally, as... Figure 3 As shown, the main body support wall 20 and leg 40 of each module support 2 are arranged between adjacent main body support surfaces 10 (adjacent main body support surfaces 10 along the length direction L of the module support 2) and connected by continuous surfaces. By connecting the main body support walls 20 and leg 40 of each module support 2 by continuous surfaces, the strength of the module support 2 and the packaging material 1 can be improved. Furthermore, in this embodiment where multiple module support 2 are provided in a manner that supports multiple modules M in a state of parallel arrangement, the main body support walls 20 and leg 40 are arranged alternately along the transverse direction W throughout adjacent module support 2, and the main body support walls 20 and leg 40 are connected by continuous surfaces. As a result, the strength of the packaging material 1 having multiple module support 2 can be improved. Each module support 2 (packaging material 1) can be made of paper such as waste paper or corrugated paper, synthetic resins such as polystyrene, polypropylene, and polyethylene terephthalate, or foaming synthetic resins such as polyurethane and polystyrene. Furthermore, in this embodiment, an example is shown in which each module support 2 (main body support surface 10, main body support wall 20, top support wall 30, and leg 40) is integrally formed, but multiple components can also be combined to form each module support.

[0071] Next, use Figure 9 The structure of the packaging body 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be explained.

[0072] like Figure 9 As shown, the packaging body 100 of this embodiment includes packaging material 1 and a box B for storing the packaging material 1. The packaging material 1 is as described above. The box B can be, for example, a box with a generally rectangular shape made of corrugated cardboard or the like. In the packaging body 100, a gap G is formed between the upper surface M13 of the main body M1 of the uppermost module M supported by the packaging material 1 and the inner surface B1 of the box B opposite to the upper surface M13 of the same main body M1. However, a spacer member S can be provided to partially block this gap G. By providing such a spacer member S, movement of the module M in the vertical direction can be suppressed, and movement of the entire stacked module M in the vertical direction can be suppressed.

[0073] The shape of the spacer member S is not particularly limited, as long as it can at least partially seal the gap G formed between the upper surface M13 of the main body M1 of the uppermost module M and the inner surface B1 of the box B. The material of the spacer member S is not particularly limited, as long as it can suppress the vertical movement of the module M. For example, multiple sheets of corrugated paper with a predetermined thickness can be overlapped to serve as the spacer member S. Alternatively, a plate-shaped (thin cuboid) spacer member S with a predetermined thickness, made of paper or foamed synthetic resin, can also be used. Furthermore, in addition to the spacer member S, a thin plate member (pad) with a generally rectangular shape when viewed from above, such as made of corrugated paper, can be provided between the uppermost module M and the inner surface (upper surface) B1 of the box B, and this thin plate member (pad) and the spacer member S can be integrated.

[0074] In the packaging material 1 of the embodiments described above, since the lower surface M11 of the main body M1 of the module M, which is in a horizontal position, can be at least partially supported by the main body support surface 10, and the two side surfaces M12 of the main body M1 can be supported by the main body support wall 20 in a manner that clamps the two side surfaces M12 of the main body M1 of the module M, movement of the module M in the left-right direction (width direction W, which is perpendicular to the length direction L of the module M) can be suppressed. In addition, since the top surface support wall 30 can support the top surfaces M22 of the top cover portions M2 on both sides of the horizontally positioned module M, movement of the module M in the length direction L can be suppressed. Furthermore, since the packaging material 1 is configured such that when the module M is supported by the main body support surface 10, the main body support wall 20, and the top surface support wall 30, the packaging material 1 does not contact the side surfaces M21 of the top cover portions M2 of the module M, thus preventing damage to the side surfaces M21 of the top cover portions M2 of the module M or damage to the packaging bag covering the side surfaces M21 of the top cover portions M2 of the module M.

[0075] Furthermore, since the packaging material 1 in the above-described embodiment has legs 40 that protrude downwards from the main body support surface 10 and are disposed below the main body M1 of the module M, deformation (strain) of the packaging material 1 can be suppressed and the packaging material 1 can be placed in a stable state when it is placed inside the box B on the shelf. In addition, the legs 40 can absorb impacts from below, thus mitigating the impact acting on the module M.

[0076] Furthermore, in the packaging material 1 of the embodiments described above, since the leg 40 is arranged approximately at the center of the module M in the width direction (lateral W) supported by the main body support surface 10, the weight of the module M can be supported directly below the module M (approximately at the center in the width direction). Therefore, deformation (strain) of the packaging material 1 can be suppressed.

[0077] Furthermore, in the packaging material 1 of the embodiments described above, since a plurality of legs 40 are provided along the length direction L of the module M supported by the main body support surface 10, and the plurality of legs 40 are arranged approximately symmetrically about the approximate center of the module M in the length direction L, the weight of the module M can be distributed and the module M can be supported by the packaging material 1 as a whole. Therefore, the force will not be biased towards a part of the packaging material 1, and the deformation (strain) of the packaging material 1 can be suppressed.

[0078] Furthermore, in the packaging material 1 of the embodiments described above, by separately providing multiple main body support surfaces 10, the lower surface M11 of the main body M1 of the module M can be supported at multiple locations along the length direction. In addition, since the main body support walls 20 and legs 40 disposed between adjacent main body support surfaces 10 are connected by continuous surfaces, the rigidity and strength of the packaging material 1 can be improved.

[0079] Furthermore, in the packaging material 1 described above, since each of its structures (main body support surface 10, main body support wall 20, top support wall 30, and legs 40) is integrally formed, it is easier to manufacture compared to connecting independent components. Additionally, because the packaging material 1 is integrally formed, it is easy to handle and facilitates packaging and disassembly operations.

[0080] Furthermore, in the packaging material 1 of the embodiments described above, the lower surface M1 of the main body M1 of the module M can be supported by the main body support surface 10A of the first packaging material 1A, and the upper surface M13 of the main body M1 of the module M can be supported by the leg portion 40B of the second packaging material 1B, thus allowing the module M to be clamped from both above and below. Therefore, movement of the module M in the vertical direction can be suppressed.

[0081] Furthermore, in the packaging material 1 of the embodiments described above, since the second packaging material 1B is stacked on top of the module M supported by the first packaging material 1A, and the legs 40B of the second packaging material 1B at least partially support the upper surface M13 of the main body M1 of the module M, the second packaging material 1B does not contact the side M21 of the top cover M2 of the module M. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the packaging bag covering the side M21 of the top cover M2 of the module M from being trapped between the side M21 and the second packaging material 1B and becoming wrinkled or damaged. In addition, it is possible to prevent the following situation: when a large impact is applied in the vertical direction when the module M is placed on the second packaging material 1B, the side M21 of the top cover M2 of the module M disposed on the first packaging material 1A and the side M21 of the top cover M2 of the module M disposed on the second packaging material 1B will contact each other through the second packaging material 1B and be impacted, causing them to break.

[0082] Furthermore, in the packaging material 1 of the above-described embodiments, a region A is formed between the first packaging material 1A and the second packaging material 1B, where a protruding bolt M3 protrudes from the side M21 of the top cover M2 of the storage module M. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the following situations: the protruding bolt M3 is pressed by the packaging material 1 and subjected to impact, resulting in damage to the protruding bolt M3 or damage to the packaging bag around the protruding bolt M3.

[0083] Furthermore, in the packaging material 1 of the embodiments described above, since the main body support wall 20 is arranged substantially perpendicularly to the flat surface 11 that constitutes at least a part of the main body support surface 10, the lower surface M11 and the two side surfaces M12 of the main body M1 of the module M can be supported as if the main body M1 of the module M were housed in a box having a bottom surface (the flat surface 11 of the main body support surface 10) and two side surfaces (the main body support wall 20) that are substantially perpendicularly connected to the bottom surface.

[0084] Furthermore, in the packaging material 1 of the embodiments described above, the top support wall 30 can support at least one relatively large portion (one part) of the flat surface portion M221 of the top surface M22 of the top cover portion M2 of the module M, which is located below the shaft portion M222. Therefore, compared to the conventional case where only the relatively narrow portion (two parts) of the flat surface portion M221 of the top surface M22 located to the side of the shaft portion M222 is supported, the flat surface portion M221 of the top surface M22 can be supported over a larger area. In addition, when the top cover portion M2 of the module M is covered by a packaging bag, the top surface M22 of the top cover portion M2 can be supported in a relatively flat state (a state that is less prone to wrinkles), thus preventing the packaging bag from breaking.

[0085] Furthermore, in the packaging material 1 of the embodiments described above, it is configured such that when the modules M are supported by the multiple module support portions 2 respectively, the side surfaces M21 of the top cover portions M2 of adjacent modules M do not contact each other. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the packaging bag covering the side surfaces M21 of the top cover portions M2 of the modules M from being damaged due to contact between the side surfaces M21 of the top cover portions M2 and each other. In addition, it is possible to prevent the following situation: when a large impact is applied in the left-right direction when the modules M are placed on the packaging material 1, the side surfaces M21 of the top cover portions M2 of the modules M and the side surfaces M21 of the top cover portions M2 of the modules M disposed adjacent to them on the packaging material 1 from contacting and being impacted, thus causing them to break.

[0086] Furthermore, in the packaging material 1 described above, since there are no partition walls between the side surfaces M21 of the top cover M2 of adjacent modules M when the modules M are supported by multiple module support portions 2, it is possible to prevent the packaging bag covering the side surfaces M21 of the top cover M21 of the modules M from being damaged by partition walls. In addition, the lateral dimension of the packaging material 1 can be shortened accordingly to accommodate the modules M, allowing for compact storage of the modules M.

[0087] Furthermore, in the packaging body 100 of the embodiments described above, since the gap G formed between the upper surface M13 of the main body M1 of the module M supported by the packaging material 1 and the inner surface B1 of the box B opposite to the upper surface M13 can be sealed by the spacer member S, the vertical movement of the module M can be suppressed. In addition, when multiple layers of modules M supported by the packaging material 1 are stacked, the vertical movement of them as a whole can also be suppressed.

[0088] This invention is not limited to the embodiments described above. Any modifications made by those skilled in the art to these embodiments, as long as they possess the features of this invention, are also included within the scope of this invention. That is, the elements, configurations, materials, conditions, shapes, and dimensions of the embodiments are not limited to the examples shown, but can be appropriately modified. Furthermore, the elements of the embodiments can be combined as technically as possible, and any combination thereof that incorporates the features of this invention is also included within the scope of this invention.

[0089] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0090] 1. Packaging material; 2. Module support; 10. Main body support surface; 11. Flat surface; 20. Main body support wall; 30. Top support wall; 40. Leg; 50. Recess; 100. Packaging body; A. Area of ​​protruding bolt for storing modules; B. Box; B1. Inner surface of box; G. Gap; L. Length direction of module; M. Module; M1. Main body; M11. Lower surface of main body; M12. Side of main body; M13. Upper surface of main body; M2. Top cover; M21. Side of top cover; M22. Top surface of top cover; M221. Flat surface portion of top surface of top cover; M222. Shaft portion of top surface of top cover; M3. Protruding bolt; S. Spacer; W. Width direction of module.

Claims

1. A packaging material for packaging a module having a cylindrical body and top covers mounted at both ends of the body in the longitudinal direction into a box, wherein, The packaging material has the following characteristics: The main body support surface at least partially supports the lower surface of the main body of the module, which is in a horizontal position; The main body support wall supports the two sides of the module, which is positioned horizontally, by clamping the two sides of the main body. The top surface support wall supports the top surface of the top cover portion on both sides of the module in a horizontal position. as well as The legs are positioned to project downwards from the supporting surface of the main body. The packaging material is configured such that, when the module is supported by the main body support surface, the main body support wall, and the top support wall, the packaging material does not contact the side of the top cover. The legs are positioned below the main body of the module. When a second packaging material is stacked on top of the module supported by the first packaging material, the legs of the second packaging material are configured to at least partially contact the upper surface of the main body of the module. The main body support surface is provided in a plurality of separate locations to support multiple portions of the lower surface of the main body of the module along the length direction. The main body support wall and the legs are arranged between adjacent main body support surfaces and connected by continuous surfaces.

2. The packaging material according to claim 1, wherein, The legs are positioned approximately at the center of the module in the width direction, supported by the main body support surface.

3. The packaging material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The legs are provided in multiple portions along the length of the module supported by the main body support surface. The multiple legs are arranged approximately symmetrically around the approximate central portion of the module along its length.

4. The packaging material according to claim 1, wherein, The leg has a bottom surface located below the support surface of the main body in the vertical direction. The legs extend downward in a direction that is continuous with the supporting wall of the main body.

5. The packaging material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The main body support surface, the main body support wall, the top support wall, and the leg are integrally formed.

6. The packaging material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The second packaging material is stacked on top of the module supported by the first packaging material, and the legs of the second packaging material are at least partially in contact with the upper surface of the main body of the module, but the second packaging material does not contact the side of the top cover of the module.

7. The packaging material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The module has a protruding bolt that protrudes from the side of the top cover. An area for receiving the protruding plug is formed between the first packaging material and the second packaging material.

8. The packaging material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, At least a portion of the supporting surface of the main body is a flat surface. The main body support wall is configured approximately perpendicular to the flat surface.

9. The packaging material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The top surface of the top cover of the module has a flat surface portion that is substantially orthogonal to the length direction of the module and an axial portion that protrudes from the flat surface portion along the length direction of the module. The top support wall supports at least the portion of the flat surface portion of the top surface that is below the axial portion.

10. The packaging material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The packaging material includes a modular support portion, which has a main body support surface, a main body support wall, and a top support wall. This modular support portion supports a single module. The module support is provided in a manner that supports multiple modules in a parallel configuration. The packaging material is configured such that, when the modules are supported by the respective module supports, the sides of the top covers of adjacent modules do not contact each other.

11. The packaging material according to claim 10, wherein, When the modules are supported by the respective module support portions, there are no partition walls between the sides of the top cover portions of adjacent modules.

12. The packaging material according to claim 1, wherein, The ratio of the total length of the main body support surface in the length direction of the main body to the distance between the top support wall in the length direction of the packaging material is 30% or more.

13. The packaging material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The dimension from the lowest part of the main body support surface to the highest part of the main body support wall is set to be more than 50% of the diameter of the main body of the module, and / or more than 50% of the distance between adjacent main body support walls.

14. The packaging material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The dimension from the lowest part of the main body support surface to the highest part of the main body support wall is set to be more than 50% and less than 150% of the diameter of the main body of the module, and / or more than 50% and less than 150% of the distance between adjacent main body support walls.

15. The packaging material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, A recess is provided on the support wall of the main body portion along the length direction of the main body portion.

16. The packaging material according to claim 7, wherein, When the protruding pin of the module, which is positioned near the outer periphery of the packaging material, is set to horizontal, the outer periphery of the packaging material is located outside the tip of the protruding pin.

17. The packaging material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, The packaging material is symmetrical in the length direction of the module when viewed from above, and is linearly symmetrical across the center line in the width direction of the module.

18. The packaging material according to claim 1 or 2, wherein, A recess is provided at approximately the center of the module in the length direction on the outer periphery of the packaging material when viewed from above.

19. The packaging material according to claim 10, wherein, The legs and the main body support wall of the adjacent module support are alternately arranged along the width direction of the module, and the main body support wall and the legs are connected by a continuous surface.

20. A packaging body, wherein, The packaging body comprises the packaging material as described in any one of claims 1 to 19 and a box for containing the packaging material.

21. The packaging body according to claim 20, wherein, The packaging body has a spacer member that seals the gap formed between the upper surface of the main body of the module supported by the packaging material and the inner surface of the box opposite to the upper surface of the main body.

22. A modular component, wherein, This module component has: A module having a cylindrical main body and top covers mounted at both ends of the main body along its length; and The packaging material according to any one of claims 1 to 19.

23. A method for packaging a module, wherein the module having a cylindrical main body and top covers mounted at both ends along the length of the main body are packaged into a box using the packaging material according to any one of claims 1 to 19, wherein, The lower surface of the main body of the module, which is positioned horizontally, is at least partially supported by the supporting surface of the main body of the packaging material. The two sides of the module, which is positioned horizontally, are supported by the main body support wall of the packaging material in a manner that clamps the two sides of the main body. The top surfaces of the top cover portions on both sides of the module, which is positioned horizontally, are supported by the top support wall of the packaging material. When the module is supported by the main body support surface, the main body support wall and the top support wall of the packaging material, the packaging material does not contact the side of the top cover of the module.

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