Foldable container and its side panels

Abstract

This invention discloses a foldable container and its side panel. The side panel of the foldable container includes: a side panel body and an end cap; the side panel body has a first lower plate and a first upper plate movably connected to the first lower plate; the top of the first lower plate has an upward-facing placement opening that extends through the first lower plate along its thickness direction; wherein the first upper plate is operably openable to the upward-facing opening of the first placement opening; the first upper plate is operably vertically connected to the first lower plate; the end cap is slidably disposed on the outer surface of the side panel and operably positioned in a first position or a second position; when the end cap is in the first position, it covers the first placement opening; when the end cap is in the second position, it opens the first placement opening. Compared with the prior art, this makes the container convenient to use, occupies little space when empty, facilitates transportation and storage, and provides protection for the ends of stored items.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the field of logistics and transportation, and in particular to a foldable container and its side panels. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, the demand for new energy batteries has become increasingly widespread. These batteries require large quantities of materials such as aluminum foil, making bulk storage and transportation essential. Ensuring the safety of these materials during storage and transportation is crucial, preventing damage from wear and tear. Current methods involve transporting these materials in finished rolls wound on spools, placed in transport boxes. Due to the material's weight, the rolls require two robust support plates inside the transport box. These plates are fixed to a base, and the spool rests on them, providing sufficient strength to support the rolls without causing deformation or wear from the materials resting on the base. To prevent movement during transport, clamping plates are connected to the support plates, securing both ends of the spool. Because of the roll's weight, the clamping plates are large and work in conjunction with the support plates to stabilize and reduce pressure on them. This structure supports and positions the finished rolls, but its numerous and large plate structures make the overall structure of the transport box complex. Placing or retrieving the finished rolls requires moving pallets, consuming significant manpower and causing inconvenience. Furthermore, the pallet and support plate structure makes the transport box bulky, occupying considerable space when empty, hindering transportation and storage. Additionally, the excessive weight of the finished rolls makes the existing structural support prone to deformation, resulting in poor stability. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The purpose of this invention is to provide a foldable container and its side panels, which makes the container easy to use, occupies little space when empty, is convenient for transportation and storage, and can protect the ends of the stored items.

[0004] To address the aforementioned technical problems, embodiments of the present invention provide a side panel for a foldable container, comprising: a side panel body and an end cap;

[0005] The side plate body has a first lower plate and a first upper plate that is movably connected to the first lower plate.

[0006] The top of the first lower plate has an upward-facing placement opening that extends through the first lower plate along its thickness direction; wherein, the first upper plate can be operably opened to open the upward-facing opening of the first placement opening; the first upper plate is operably vertically connected to the first lower plate.

[0007] The end cap is slidably disposed on the outer surface of the side plate, and the end cap is operably located in a first position or a second position; when the end cap is in the first position, the end cap covers the first placement opening, and the first upper plate and the first lower plate are fixed together; when the end cap is in the second position, the end cap opens the first placement opening, and the first upper plate and the first lower plate move relative to each other.

[0008] Compared to existing technologies, the embodiments of this invention feature a side panel with a first lower plate and a first upper plate, which are movably connected. This allows the first placement opening on the lower plate to be opened, enabling the storage item to be placed into the foldable container. The end of the storage item rests in the first placement opening. The upper plate does not interfere with the placement or removal of the storage item. After placement, the lower plate can seal the first placement opening to position the storage item. This simple side panel structure allows for convenient placement and positioning of the storage item. Furthermore, the end cap covers the first placement opening, preventing debris from entering the foldable container and protecting the end of the storage item. This side panel, which both supports the storage item and serves as the side panel of the foldable container, minimizes space usage when empty, facilitating transportation and storage.

[0009] In one embodiment, when the end cap is in a first position, the end cap is connected to the first lower plate and the first upper plate; when the end cap is in a second position, the end cap is separated from the first lower plate.

[0010] In one embodiment, a placement groove extending along the height direction of the foldable container is provided on the outer surface of the side plate; a portion of the placement groove is located on the first upper plate, and another portion is located on the first upper plate; and the first placement opening passes through the placement groove.

[0011] The end cap is slidably disposed in the placement groove; when the end cap is in the first position, the end cap slides to the bottom end of the placement groove; when the end cap is in the second position, when the end cap slides to the top end of the placement groove, the end cap leaves the first lower plate.

[0012] In one embodiment, a first insertion port and a second insertion port are provided on a pair of oppositely arranged first sidewalls of the placement slot, and the first sidewalls extend along the height direction of the side plate;

[0013] The first insertion port is located in the area where the first lower plate is located, and the second insertion port is located in the area where the first upper plate is located.

[0014] The end cap has a locking element, the locking tongue of which can be operably inserted into or out of the first insertion port or the second insertion port; when the end cap is in the first position, the locking tongue of the locking element can be operably inserted into the first insertion port; when the end cap is in the second position, the locking tongue of the locking element can be operably inserted into the second insertion port.

[0015] In one embodiment, the first insertion port is partially formed on the first upper plate and the other part is formed on the first lower plate.

[0016] In one embodiment, each of the pair of first sidewalls has a first limiting protrusion facing the placement groove; the end cap is held between the first limiting protrusions of the pair of first sidewalls.

[0017] In one embodiment, the placement groove has a protruding rib extending along the height direction of the side plate;

[0018] The end cap has a slide for inserting the rib on the side facing inside the foldable container.

[0019] In one embodiment, the top and bottom of the placement groove each have a second limiting protrusion protruding toward the placement groove;

[0020] The end cap has notches at both the top and bottom;

[0021] When the end cap is in the first position, the second limiting protrusion at the bottom of the placement groove is embedded in the recess at the bottom of the end cap; when the end cap is in the second position, the second limiting protrusion at the top of the placement groove is embedded in the recess at the top of the end cap.

[0022] In one embodiment, a pad embedded in the first lower plate is disposed in the first placement opening; the pad is detachably connected to the first lower plate; and the pad is used to support one end of the stored item.

[0023] The pad has: a receiving portion exposed in the first placement opening for receiving one end of the storage item, and a barrier portion connected to the receiving portion and extending upward, the barrier portion being located on the side of the first placement opening facing outward from the foldable container for limiting the storage item.

[0024] The end cap has a limiting plate extending toward the interior of the collapsible container; when the end cap is in a first position, the limiting plate is operably abutted against the top of the barrier.

[0025] In one embodiment, the padding member includes an outer casing and a reinforcing member embedded in the outer casing;

[0026] The outer shell has the receiving portion, the blocking portion, and the insertion portion connected to the bottom of the receiving portion; the reinforcing body has an extension portion extending along the length direction of the first lower plate, and a limiting portion connected to the extension portion and extending upward, the extension portion being embedded in the receiving portion, and the limiting portion being embedded in the blocking portion.

[0027] The first lower plate has supporting ribs, and the insertion part is inserted into the first lower plate, with the supporting ribs inserted into the insertion part.

[0028] In one embodiment, the bottom of the first upper plate is provided with a second placement opening for cooperating with the first placement opening to accommodate one end of the stored item, and the second placement opening penetrates the first upper plate along the thickness direction of the first upper plate;

[0029] When the end cap is in the first position, the end cap covers the second placement opening.

[0030] In one embodiment, the second placement opening is provided with a pressing member embedded in the first upper plate and used to press and cover one end of the storage item, the pressing member being detachably connected to the first upper plate; the pressing member is an elastic member.

[0031] In one embodiment, the first upper plate and the first lower plate are hinged together, and the first upper plate is operably flipped around its hinge with the first lower plate to the outside of the foldable container.

[0032] Embodiments of the present invention also provide a foldable container, comprising: a base, and a pair of opposing first side panels foldably connected to the base, wherein the first side panels are any of the side panels described above;

[0033] The first placement openings of the pair of first side plates are respectively used to receive the two ends of the stored items.

[0034] In one embodiment, the base has a plurality of support feet at its bottom, and at least two of the support feet are located directly below the two first placement openings.

[0035] In one embodiment, the foldable container further includes: a pair of opposing second side panels, and adjacent first and second side panels are operably connected to surround the base;

[0036] At least one of the second side plates has a second lower plate body that is foldably connected to the base, and a second upper plate body that is movably connected to the side of the second lower plate body opposite to the base; the second upper plate body and the second lower plate body of the second side plate are hinged together, and the second upper plate body is operably flipped around its hinge point with the second lower plate body to the outside of the foldable container.

[0037] In one embodiment, the first side plate and the second side plate are plastic plates; the first lower plate of the first side plate is hinged to the base via a reinforcing shaft;

[0038] The foldable container further includes a cover plate, which is operably fitted over the top of the first side plate and the second side plate;

[0039] The top of the cover plate has a protrusion; when multiple foldable containers are stacked on top of each other, the base is located in the area enclosed by the protrusion. Attached Figure Description

[0040] One or more embodiments are illustrated by way of example with reference numerals in the accompanying drawings. These illustrations do not constitute a limitation on the embodiments. Elements with the same reference numerals in the drawings are denoted as similar elements. Unless otherwise stated, the figures in the drawings are not to be limited by scale.

[0041] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a foldable container according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0042] Figure 2 This is an exploded view of the storage item located in a collapsible container according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0043] Figure 3 yes Figure 2 A magnified view of part B in the image; Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of a foldable container according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0044] Figure 5 yes Figure 4 A magnified view of part A in the image;

[0045] Figure 6 This is a cross-sectional view of the first side plate according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0046] Figure 7 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first upper plate and the second upper plate after they have been flipped over when the storage item is located in the foldable container according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0047] Figure 8 This is a cross-sectional view of the storage item being located in a collapsible container according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0048] Figure 9 yes Figure 8 A magnified view of part C;

[0049] Figure 10 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the storage item located in the foldable container, where the second side plate and the base cooperate;

[0050] Figure 11 yes Figure 10 A magnified view of part D;

[0051] Figure 12 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the second side plate folded onto the base according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0052] Figure 13 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of the first side plate and the second side plate folded onto the base according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0053] Figure 14 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a foldable container after folding, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0054] Figure 15 This is a schematic diagram of the stacked structure of a foldable container after folding, according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0055] Reference numerals: 100, foldable container; 1, base; 11, support foot; 12, embedding groove; 2, first side plate; 23, side plate body; 21, first lower plate; 210, first placement opening; 211, support rib; 212, recessed groove; 213, flange; 20, elastic locking element; 22, first upper plate; 220, second placement opening; 3, second side plate; 31, second lower plate; 311, protruding foot; 312, retaining edge; 32, second upper plate; 4, cover plate; 42, protrusion; 5 6. Reinforcing shaft; 6. Storage item; 61. Reel; 62. Product; 7. Pad; 71. Receiving part; 72. Barrier part; 75. Insertion part; 73. Reinforcing body; 731. Extension part; 732. Limiting part; 74. Outer body; 8. Holding part; 20. Placement groove; 201. First limiting protrusion; 202. Rib; 203. Second limiting protrusion; 204. First insertion port; 205. Second insertion port; 9. End cap; 91. Limiting plate; 92. Notch; 93. Slide; 94. Locking element. Detailed Implementation

[0056] To make the objectives, technical solutions, and advantages of the embodiments of the present invention clearer, the various embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, those skilled in the art will understand that many technical details have been presented in the various embodiments of the present invention to enable the reader to better understand this application. However, the technical solutions claimed in this application can be implemented even without these technical details and various changes and modifications based on the following embodiments.

[0057] In the following description, certain specific details are set forth for the purpose of illustrating various disclosed embodiments in order to provide a thorough understanding of the various disclosed embodiments. However, those skilled in the art will recognize that embodiments may be practiced without one or more of these specific details. In other instances, well-known apparatuses, structures, and techniques associated with this application may not have been shown or described in detail to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the description of the embodiments.

[0058] Unless the context requires otherwise, throughout the specification and claims, the word “comprising” and its variations, such as “including” and “having”, shall be understood to have an open, inclusive meaning, that is, to be interpreted as “including, but not limited to”.

[0059] The embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings to provide a clearer understanding of the purpose, features, and advantages of the present invention. It should be understood that the embodiments shown in the drawings are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention, but are merely illustrative of the essential spirit of the technical solution of the present invention.

[0060] Throughout this specification, references to "an embodiment" or "an embodiment" indicate that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment. Therefore, the appearance of "in an embodiment" or "an embodiment" in various places throughout the specification does not necessarily refer to the same embodiment. Furthermore, a particular feature, structure, or characteristic may be combined in any manner in one or more embodiments.

[0061] The singular forms “a” and “the” used in this specification and the appended claims include plural references unless otherwise expressly stated herein. It should be noted that the term “or” is generally used to mean “and / or” unless otherwise expressly stated herein.

[0062] In the following description, in order to clearly demonstrate the structure and working method of the present invention, a number of directional terms will be used. However, terms such as "front", "back", "left", "right", "outside", "inside", "outward", "inward", "up", and "down" should be understood as convenient terms and not as limiting terms.

[0063] Embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0064] This invention relates to a side panel and a foldable container, wherein the side panel, hereinafter referred to as the first side panel 2, is used in the foldable container 100. For example... Figure 1 and Figure 2As shown, the collapsible container 100 is used to hold transportable storage items 6. The storage items 6 have a reel 61 and a product 62 wound on the reel 61. Both ends of the reel 61 extend beyond the product 62 and are operably inserted into the first side plate 2 of the collapsible container 100. The product 62 may be made of aluminum or the like. The collapsible container 100 includes: a base 1, a pair of opposing first side plates 2 and a pair of opposing second side plates 3 foldably connected to the base 1, with adjacent first side plates 2 and second side plates 3 operably connected and surrounding the base 1. Each second side plate 3 is connected between the pair of first side plates 2. Both the pair of first side plates 2 and the pair of second side plates 3 are detachably connected to the base 1 and are arranged around the base 1. Figure 6 In this embodiment, the first side panel 2 has a longitudinal folded section. The first side panel 2 and the second side panel 3 can be hinged together. The first side panel 2 folds along the folded section into the receiving space area, so that the first side panel 2 has two parts that are attached together. The connection between the first side panel 2 and the second side panel 3 is also bent, and the first side panel 2 is sandwiched between the two second side panels 3. Understandably, in other embodiments, the first side panel 2 and the second side panel 3 can also be detachably connected, so that the first side panel 2 and the second side panel 3 can be transported and stored after being disassembled. The first side panel 2 and the second side panel 3 can also have other folding forms, not limited to the folding forms described above.

[0065] like Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 7 As shown, the first side plate 2 has a first lower plate 21 that is foldably connected to the base 1, and a first upper plate 22 that is movably connected to the side of the first lower plate 21 facing away from the base 1. The first upper plate 22 is hinged to the first lower plate 21, and the first upper plate 22 can be folded outwards to the outer surface of the first lower plate 21. In other embodiments, the first upper plate 22 and the first lower plate 21 can also be detachably connected, allowing the first upper plate 22 to be removed from the first lower plate 21 and locked together using a simple locking structure. The lower plate 21 of the first side panel 2, facing away from the base 1, is the mounting side. A first placement opening 210 for receiving one end of the storage item 6 is provided on this mounting side. The first placement opening 210 faces both the inside of the foldable container 100 and the side facing away from the base 1. The upper plate 22 can be folded outwards, opening the first placement opening 210. The end of the storage item 6 can be placed on the first placement opening 210. Because the first upper plate 22 is folded down, the height of the first side panel 2 decreases, effectively exposing part of the internal space of the foldable container 100, facilitating the placement of the storage item 6 inside. After the storage item 6 is placed, the upper plate 22 is flipped to a vertical position, sealing the opening of the first placement opening 210 facing away from the base 1. This completely places the storage item 6 inside the foldable container 100, and the upper plate 22 limits the storage item 6, preventing it from bouncing or moving.

[0066] The implementation details of this embodiment are described below. The following content is only for the convenience of understanding and is not necessary for implementing this solution.

[0067] In this embodiment, both first side plates 2 have a first upper plate body 22 and a first lower plate body 21. However, in other embodiments, only one first side plate 2 may have a first upper plate body 22 and a first lower plate body 21.

[0068] In addition, such as Figure 1 and Figure 15 As shown, the collapsible container 100 also includes a cover plate 4, which is operably fitted over the top of the first side plate 2 and the second side plate 3. The top of the cover plate 4 has a protrusion 42, and when multiple collapsible containers 100 are stacked, the base 1 is located in the area enclosed by the protrusion 42.

[0069] In this embodiment, the foldable container 100 is a pallet box, and the materials of the first side plate 2, the second side plate 3 and the base 1 are PP (polypropylene). Understandably, other plastic materials may also be used.

[0070] As can be seen from the above, the first side panel 2 has a first lower plate 21 and a first upper plate 22, which are movably connected to the first lower plate 21. This allows the first placement opening 210 on the first lower plate 21 to be opened, enabling the storage item 6 to be placed into the foldable container 100. Both ends of the storage item 6 are placed in the first placement opening 210. The first upper plate 22 will not interfere with the placement or removal of the storage item 6. After the storage item 6 is placed, the first lower plate 21 can seal the first placement opening 210 to position the storage item 6. The simple structure of the first side panel 2 allows for convenient positioning and use of the storage item 6. Furthermore, the foldable design of the first side panel 2 and the second side panel 3, along with the base 1, minimizes space occupation when empty, facilitating transportation and storage.

[0071] In addition, such as Figure 2 As shown, the first lower plate 21 is hinged to the base 1 via a reinforcing shaft 5. The reinforcing shaft 5 is a metal shaft, which makes the foldable container 100 stronger and able to support the stored items 6.

[0072] Furthermore, such as Figure 2 and Figure 4As shown, the first upper plate 22 has a second placement opening 220 on the side facing the base 1 for accommodating one end of the storage item 6 with the first placement opening 210. The second placement opening 220 opens towards the inside of the foldable container 100 and towards the base 1. When the first upper plate 22 is flipped to a vertical position, the first upper plate 22 cooperates with the first lower plate 21 to hold the storage item 6. As shown, the shapes of the first placement opening 210 and the second placement opening 220 can match the scroll 61. In some embodiments, the second placement opening 220 may not be provided on the first upper plate 22.

[0073] Optionally, such as Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the diameter of the first placement opening 210 is equal to the diameter of the second placement opening 220, and is the diameter of the scroll 61. That is, half of the scroll 61 is in the first placement opening 210 and the other half is in the second placement opening 220. In other embodiments, the diameter of the first placement opening 210 may be smaller, and the diameter of the second placement opening 220 may be larger. That is, a small portion of the scroll 61 is placed in the first placement opening 210, thereby facilitating the tooling to insert or pull the scroll 61 into or out of the first placement opening 210.

[0074] Furthermore, such as Figure 2 and Figure 4 As shown, the first placement opening 210 penetrates the first lower plate 21 along the thickness direction of the first lower plate 21. The second placement opening 220 penetrates the first upper plate 22 along the thickness direction of the first upper plate 22.

[0075] In addition, such as Figure 2 , Figure 3 and Figure 4 As shown, a pad 7 is provided within the first placement opening 210 and embedded in the first lower plate 21. The pad 7 is detachably connected to the first lower plate 21 and supports one end of the stored item 6. The pad 7 can be replaced with one that matches the diameter of the roll 61. In some embodiments, the pad 7 and the first lower plate 21 may not be detached but directly fixed together.

[0076] Furthermore, such as Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the pad 7 has: a receiving portion 71 exposed in the first placement opening 210 for receiving one end of the storage item 6, and a barrier portion 72 connected to the receiving portion 71 and extending in a direction away from the base 1. As shown, the barrier portion 72 protrudes outside the receiving portion 71. The barrier portion 72 is located on the side of the first placement opening 210 facing outward from the foldable container 100 and is used to limit the storage item 6. The barrier portion 72 prevents the storage item 6 from sliding between the two first side plates 2.

[0077] More importantly, such as Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the top of the receiving part 71 is a concave arc surface, which can better match the scroll 61 placed on it.

[0078] In addition, such as Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the inner diameter of the receiving part 71 is the same as the outer diameter of the scroll 61. This sameness can be understood as almost the same. Even slight dimensional differences are within the scope of this method, so that the scroll 61 is not easy to rotate on the receiving part 71 and can be placed stably.

[0079] Furthermore, the pad 7 includes an outer sleeve 74 and a reinforcing member 73 embedded in the outer sleeve 74. The reinforcing member 73 has an extension 731 extending along the length direction of the first lower plate 21 in which it is located, and the outer sleeve 74 has a receiving portion 71 into which the extension 731 is inserted.

[0080] Furthermore, such as Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the outer casing 74 also has a baffle 72 that is connected to the receiving portion 71 and extends upward, and the receiving portion 71 is used to receive one end of the stored item 6, while the baffle 72 is located on the side of the first placement opening 210 facing outward from the foldable container 100 and is used to limit the storage item 6.

[0081] Furthermore, such as Figure 2 , Figure 4 and Figure 5 As shown, the reinforcing body 73 also has a limiting part 732 that is connected to the extension part 731 and extends upward, that is, the limiting part 732 extends in the direction away from the base 1 and is embedded in the partition part 72.

[0082] In addition, such as Figure 2 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the outer casing 74 also has an insertion part 75 connected to the bottom of the receiving part 71, and the insertion part 75 is inserted into the first lower plate 21.

[0083] Furthermore, such as Figure 2 , Figure 5 and Figure 6 As shown, the first lower plate 21 has a supporting rib 211, and the insertion part 75 is inserted into the first lower plate 21, with the supporting rib 211 inserted into the insertion part 75.

[0084] Furthermore, such as Figure 2 , Figure 5 and Figure 6As shown, the insertion part 75 includes two spaced-apart plates. Multiple insertion parts 75 are present, and a support rib 211 is inserted between the two plates. Multiple support ribs 211 are also present and arranged along the length of the first lower plate 21. This allows the pressure of the storage item 6 to be transmitted to each plate via the extension part 731, dispersing the force and thus improving the support effect of the first lower plate 21, enabling it to withstand heavier storage items 6. In other embodiments, the insertion part can be other structures, such as multiple protrusions inserted into the first lower plate 21, which can disperse the force transmitted from the storage item 6, preventing the force of the storage item 6 pressing on the pad 7 from concentrating at a single point and achieving uniform force distribution.

[0085] Furthermore, such as Figure 6 As shown, the bottom of the base 1 has multiple support feet 11, and at least two support feet 11 are located directly below the two first placement openings 210. The support feet 11 located below the first placement openings 210 can withstand the pressure transmitted from the insert, and the interior of the support feet 11 located below the first placement openings 210 can be made into a solid force-bearing block.

[0086] In addition, such as Figure 6 As shown, the reinforcing body 73 is a metal part, and the outer body 74 is a plastic part. Optionally, the outer body 74 is made of TPU, TPE, TPEE, or TPV.

[0087] Furthermore, such as Figure 2 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 As shown, a pressing member 8 is provided within the second placement opening 220, embedded in the first upper plate 22, for pressing and covering one end of the stored item 6. The pressing member 8 is detachably connected to the first upper plate 22. A pad 7 matching the diameter of the reel 61 can be replaced. In some embodiments, the pressing member 8 and the first upper plate 22 may not be detached, but directly fixed together.

[0088] More importantly, such as Figure 2 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 As shown, the bottom of the pressure member 8 (i.e. Figure 2 and Figure 6 The surface facing downwards is a concave arc shape, which can better match the scroll 61 placed on it.

[0089] In addition, such as Figure 2 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 As shown, the inner diameter of the holding member 8 is the same as the outer diameter of the roll 61. This sameness can be understood as almost the same. Even slight dimensional differences are within the scope of this method, so that the roll 61 is not easy to rotate on the holding member 8 and is placed stably.

[0090] Furthermore, such as Figure 2 , Figure 6 , Figure 7 As shown, the clamping member 8 is an elastic member. Optionally, the outer casing 74 can be made of EVA or rubber, etc. This further protects the roll 61, and when multiple foldable containers 100 are stacked, the clamping member 8 can prevent damage to the roll 61 due to excessive pressure from the upper layer.

[0091] in addition, Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 12 As shown, a placement groove 20 extending along the height direction of the foldable container 100 is provided on the outer surface of the first side plate 2. A part of the placement groove 20 is located on the first upper plate 22, and another part is located on the first lower plate 21. The first placement opening 210 and the second placement opening 220 pass through the placement groove 20. The first side plate 2 includes a side plate body 23 and an end cap 9. The side plate body 23 has a first upper plate and a first lower plate. The placement groove 20 is formed on the outer surface of the side plate body 23. The end cap 9 is slidably disposed in the placement groove 20. The end cap 9 has a first position and a second position. When the end cap 9 is in the first position, that is, when it slides to the bottom of the placement groove 20, the end cap 9 covers the first placement opening 210 and the second placement opening 220. When the end cap 9 is in the second position, that is, when it slides to the top of the placement groove 20, the end cap 9 leaves the first lower plate 21. By covering the first placement port 210 and the second placement port 220 with the end cap 9, the stored item 6 can be protected. At the same time, the first upper plate 22 and the first lower plate 21 are connected and the two first upper plates 22 and the first lower plate 21 are reinforced and locked together.

[0092] In some embodiments, the end cap 9 may not be slidably disposed in the placement groove 20. The end cap 9 is detachably connected to the first side plate 2. In this case, the placement groove 20 is optional. When the end cap 9 needs to cover the first placement opening 210 and the second placement opening 220, the end cap 9 is installed on the first side plate 2. When the first placement opening 210 and the second placement opening 220 are opened, the end cap 9 is removed from the first side plate 2. The end cap 9 can be snapped onto the first side plate 2.

[0093] Furthermore, in some embodiments, the end cap 9 may only cover the first placement opening 210. That is, the end cap 9 may only be located on the first lower plate 21 without connecting the first upper plate 22 and the first lower plate 21. This is applicable to structures with or without a second placement opening 220. When the end cap 9 can only cover the first placement opening 210, the end cap 9 can be slidably connected to the first lower plate 21. In this case, the placement groove 20 is only formed on the first lower plate 21.

[0094] In some embodiments without a second placement port 220, when the end cap 9 is in the first position, the end cap 9 only covers the first placement port 210, and the end cap 9 can also be connected to the first upper plate 22 and the second lower plate 31. Alternatively, when the end cap 9 is in the first position, it may only be on the first lower plate 21 and not on the first upper plate 22.

[0095] Furthermore, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 12 As shown, a first insertion port 204 and a second insertion port 205 are respectively provided on a pair of oppositely arranged first sidewalls of the placement slot 20. The first sidewalls extend along the height direction of the first side plate 2. The first insertion port 204 is at least partially located in the area where the first lower plate 21 is located, and the second insertion port 205 is located in the area where the first upper plate 22 is located. The end cap 9 has a locking member 94, and the locking tongue of the locking member 94 can be operably inserted into the first insertion port 204 or the second insertion port 205. When the end cap 9 is in the first position, the locking tongue of the locking member 94 can be operably inserted into the first insertion port 204; when the end cap 9 is in the second position, the locking tongue of the locking member 94 can be operably inserted into the second insertion port 205.

[0096] In addition, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 12 As shown, the first insertion port 204 is partially located on the first upper plate 22 and partially located on the first lower plate 21.

[0097] Furthermore, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 12 As shown, each of the pair of first sidewalls has a first limiting protrusion 201 facing the placement groove 20, and the end cap 9 is clamped between the first limiting protrusions 201 of the pair of first sidewalls. This allows the end cap 9 to slide stably up and down without shifting left and right.

[0098] In addition, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 12 As shown, the placement groove 20 has a rib 202 extending along the height direction of the first side plate 2, and the end cap 9 has a slide 93 for embedding the rib 202 on the side facing the foldable container 100. The rib 202 and the slide 93 cooperate to provide sliding guidance for the end cap 9.

[0099] Furthermore, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 4 , Figure 12As shown, the top and bottom of the placement groove 20 both have second limiting protrusions 203 protruding towards the placement groove 20, and the top and bottom of the end cap 9 both have recesses 92. When the end cap 9 is in the first position, the second limiting protrusion 203 at the bottom of the placement groove 20 is inserted into the recess 92 at the bottom of the end cap 9; when the end cap 9 is in the second position, the second limiting protrusion 203 at the top of the placement groove 20 is inserted into the recess 92 at the top of the end cap 9. Further, as... Figure 5 As shown, the end cap 9 has a limiting plate 91 extending into the collapsible container 100. When the end cap 9 covers the first placement opening 210 and the second placement opening 220, the limiting plate 91 is operatively abutting against the top of the partition 72.

[0100] Furthermore, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 7 , Figure 12 As shown, the second side panel 3 has a second lower plate 31 foldably connected to the base 1, and a second upper plate 32 movably connected to the side of the second lower plate 31 facing away from the base 1. The second upper plate 32 and the second lower plate 31 of the second side panel 3 are hinged together, and the second upper plate 32 is operably folded out of the foldable container 100 around its hinge point with the second lower plate 31. When placing or removing the storage item 6 into or from the foldable container 100, the second upper plate 32 can be folded outward to the outside of the first lower plate 21, thereby facilitating the entry and exit of the storage item 6 into and out of the foldable container 100. The hinge structure of the second upper plate 32 and the second lower plate 31 can be similar to the hinge structure of the first upper plate 22 and the first lower plate 21. In some embodiments, only one of the two second side panels 3 may have a second upper plate 32 and a second lower plate 31, or the second side panel 3 may not be foldable.

[0101] In addition, such as Figure 1 , Figure 2 , Figure 7 , Figure 10 As shown, the second upper plate 32 and the second lower plate 31 are of equal height. Therefore, there is no interference after the second upper plate 32 is flipped, and the base 1 can be placed stably on the ground.

[0102] Furthermore, such as Figure 2 , Figure 3 , Figure 8 , Figure 9As shown, the second lower plate 31 is connected to the first lower plate 21 by an elastic locking member 20. The first lower plate 21 is at least partially bent to the side where the second side plate 3 is located, forming a flange 213. The elastic locking member 20 is operable to lock the second lower plate 31 and abuts against the surface of the flange 213. After the second upper plate 32 is flipped, the elastic locking member 20 keeps the second lower plate 31 stably connected to the first lower plate 21, preventing the second lower plate 31 from tipping out of the foldable container 100. When the second lower plate 31 needs to be bent onto the base 1, an external force can be applied to push the second lower plate 31 inward into the foldable container 100, thereby separating the elastic locking member 20 from the first lower plate 21 and unlocking the first lower plate 21 from the second lower plate 31. Specifically, the elastic locking member 20 can be a protruding bump on the side of the second lower plate 31, with an opening on the side of the first lower plate 21 for the protruding member to engage, the opening facing outwards towards the foldable container 100. This protruding member is an extension of the second lower plate 31 and has slight elasticity. Alternatively, the elastic locking member can protrude from the side of the first lower plate 21, with an opening on the side of the second lower plate 31 for the elastic locking member to be inserted.

[0103] In addition, such as Figure 10 , Figure 11 , Figure 12 As shown, the bottom corner of the second side panel 3 has a protruding foot 311, and the top of the base 1 has an inserting groove 12 for inserting the protruding foot 311. The side of the protruding foot 311 facing into the foldable container 100 is an inclined surface that matches the groove wall of the inserting groove 12. This prevents the bottom corner of the second side panel 3 from shifting into the foldable container 100 due to the pressure of the storage item 6 when it is placed in the foldable container 100.

[0104] Furthermore, such as Figure 2 and Figure 7 As shown, the top two ends of the first lower plate 21 extend outwards in a direction away from the base 1 and are spaced apart to form a recessed groove 212. The first placement opening 210 is opened at the bottom of the recessed groove 212. The top two ends of the first lower plate 21 protrude. The side wall of the first lower plate 21 is connected to the side wall of the second lower plate 31.

[0105] Furthermore, such as Figure 2 and Figure 7As shown, the bottom of the recessed groove 212 is lower than or equal to the center surface of the scroll 61 when it is placed in the first placement opening 210. After the first upper plate 22 is flipped and folded, at least half of the scroll 61 is exposed, facilitating the tooling to operate on the scroll 61. Simultaneously, it ensures that the first lower plate 21 has sufficient area to connect with the second lower plate 31, ensuring a more secure connection between the two plates and allowing it to withstand heavier stored items 6. Specifically, the flange 213 of the first lower plate 21 includes protrusions on both sides of the recessed groove 212 (i.e., protrusions at both ends of the top of the first lower plate 21), which abut against the retaining edge 312 extending from the side wall of the second lower plate 31, increasing the connection area between the first lower plate 21 and the second lower plate 31. Figure 12 , Figure 13 , Figure 14 and Figure 15 As shown, when folding the foldable container 100, the second upper plate 32 of the second side panel 3 can be folded outward to the outside of the second lower plate 31 firstly, then the two second side panels 3 can be folded onto the base 1, and then the two first side panels 2 can be folded onto the two second side panels 3, thus folding the foldable container 100. Afterward, the cover plate 4 is placed on the folded foldable container 100, and finally, multiple foldable containers 100 can be stacked as shown. When the storage item 6 is placed in the foldable container 100, it can also be stacked vertically.

[0106] The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in detail above, but it should be understood that, if necessary, aspects of the embodiments can be modified to utilize aspects, features, and concepts from various patents, applications, and publications to provide other embodiments.

[0107] In light of the detailed description above, these and other changes can be made to the embodiments. Generally, the terminology used in the claims should not be considered limited to the specific embodiments disclosed in the specification and claims, but should be understood to include all possible embodiments together with the full scope of equivalents enjoyed by these claims.

[0108] Those skilled in the art will understand that the above embodiments are specific examples of implementing the present invention, and in practical applications, various changes in form and detail may be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A side panel of a collapsible container, characterized in that include: The side plate has a side plate body and an end cap; The side plate body has a first lower plate and a first upper plate that is movably connected to the first lower plate. The top of the first lower plate has an upward-facing placement opening that extends through the first lower plate along its thickness direction; wherein, the first upper plate can be operably opened to open the upward-facing opening of the first placement opening; the first upper plate is operably vertically connected to the first lower plate. The end cap is slidably disposed on the outer surface of the side plate, and the end cap is operably located in a first position or a second position; when the end cap is located in the first position, the end cap covers the first placement opening, and the first upper plate and the first lower plate are fixed together; when the end cap is located in the second position, the end cap opens the first placement opening, and the first upper plate and the first lower plate move relative to each other. The outer surface of the side plate is provided with a placement groove extending along the height direction of the foldable container; a part of the placement groove is located on the first upper plate and another part is located on the first lower plate; and the first placement opening passes through the placement groove; the end cap is slidably disposed in the placement groove; The placement slot has a first insertion port and a second insertion port on a pair of oppositely arranged first sidewalls, and the first sidewalls extend along the height direction of the side plate. The first insertion port is located in the area where the first lower plate is located, and the second insertion port is located in the area where the first upper plate is located. The end cap has a locking element, and the locking tongue of the locking element is operable to enter and exit the first insertion port or the second insertion port; when the end cap is in the first position, the locking tongue of the locking element is operable to be inserted into the first insertion port; when the end cap is in the second position, the locking tongue of the locking element is operable to be inserted into the second insertion port.

2. The side panel of a collapsible container according to claim 1, wherein, When the end cap is in the first position, the end cap is connected to the first lower plate and the first upper plate; when the end cap is in the second position, the end cap is separated from the first lower plate.

3. The side panel of the foldable container according to claim 2, characterized in that, When the end cap is in the first position, the end cap slides to the bottom of the placement groove; when the end cap is in the second position, when the end cap slides to the top of the placement groove, the end cap leaves the first lower plate.

4. The side panel of the foldable container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first insertion port is located on the first upper plate, and the other part is located on the first lower plate.

5. The side panel of the foldable container according to claim 1, characterized in that, Each of the first sidewalls has a first limiting protrusion facing the placement groove; the end cap is held between the first limiting protrusions of the pair of first sidewalls.

6. The side panel of the foldable container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The placement groove has protruding ribs extending along the height direction of the side plate; The end cap has a slide for inserting the rib on the side facing inside the foldable container.

7. The side panel of the foldable container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The top and bottom of the placement groove both have second limiting protrusions that protrude toward the placement groove; The end cap has notches at both the top and bottom; When the end cap is in the first position, the second limiting protrusion at the bottom of the placement groove is embedded in the recess at the bottom of the end cap; When the end cap is in the second position, the second limiting protrusion at the top of the placement groove is embedded in the notch at the top of the end cap.

8. The side panel of the foldable container according to claim 1, characterized in that, A pad embedded in the first lower plate is provided in the first placement opening; the pad is detachably connected to the first lower plate; and the pad is used to support one end of the stored item. The pad has: a receiving portion exposed in the first placement opening for receiving one end of the storage item, and a barrier portion connected to the receiving portion and extending upward, the barrier portion being located on the side of the first placement opening facing outward from the foldable container for limiting the storage item. The end cap has a limiting plate extending toward the interior of the collapsible container; when the end cap is in a first position, the limiting plate is operably abutted against the top of the barrier.

9. The side panel of the foldable container according to claim 8, characterized in that, The padding component includes an outer casing and a reinforcing element embedded in the outer casing; The outer shell has the receiving portion, the blocking portion, and the insertion portion connected to the bottom of the receiving portion; the reinforcing body has an extension portion extending along the length direction of the first lower plate, and a limiting portion connected to the extension portion and extending upward, the extension portion being embedded in the receiving portion, and the limiting portion being embedded in the blocking portion. The first lower plate has supporting ribs, and the insertion part is inserted into the first lower plate, with the supporting ribs inserted into the insertion part.

10. The side panel of the foldable container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The bottom of the first upper plate is provided with a second placement opening for accommodating the first placement opening to accommodate one end of the stored item. The second placement opening penetrates the first upper plate along the thickness direction of the first upper plate. When the end cap is in the first position, the end cap covers the second placement opening.

11. The side panel of the foldable container according to claim 10, characterized in that, The second placement opening is provided with a pressing member embedded in the first upper plate and used to press and cover one end of the storage item. The pressing member is detachably connected to the first upper plate and is an elastic member.

12. The side panel of the foldable container according to claim 1, characterized in that, The first upper plate and the first lower plate are hinged together, and the first upper plate is operably flipped around the hinge point with the first lower plate to the outside of the foldable container.

13. A foldable container, characterized in that, include: A base, and a pair of opposing first side plates foldably connected to the base, wherein the first side plates are the side plates as described in any one of claims 1-12; The first placement openings of the pair of first side plates are respectively used to receive the two ends of the stored items.

14. The foldable container according to claim 13, characterized in that, The base has multiple support feet at its bottom, and at least two of the support feet are located directly below the two first placement openings.

15. The foldable container according to claim 13, characterized in that, The foldable container also includes: a pair of opposing second side panels, and adjacent first and second side panels are operably connected to surround the base; At least one of the second side plates has a second lower plate body that is foldably connected to the base, and a second upper plate body that is movably connected to the side of the second lower plate body opposite to the base; the second upper plate body and the second lower plate body of the second side plate are hinged together, and the second upper plate body is operably flipped around its hinge point with the second lower plate body to the outside of the foldable container.

16. The foldable container according to claim 15, characterized in that, The first side plate and the second side plate are made of plastic sheets; the first lower plate of the first side plate is hinged to the base via a reinforcing shaft; The foldable container further includes a cover plate, which is operably fitted over the top of the first side plate and the second side plate; The top of the cover plate has a protrusion; when multiple foldable containers are stacked on top of each other, the base is located in the area enclosed by the protrusion.

Images