Packaging container and folding method of a packaging container

Abstract

A packaging container (10) for transporting goods is configured for being converted from an idle configuration (12) into a first packaging configuration (34) by a first folding method and into a second packaging configuration (36) by a second folding method, wherein in the idle configuration (12) the packaging container (10) is collapsible such that two opposite faces (14, 16) of the packaging container (10) are in direct contact with each other, wherein in the first and second packaging configurations (34, 36) the packaging container (10) is configured such that the two opposite faces (50, 52, 62, 64) of the packaging container (10) are attached to each other by dimensionally stable side pieces (54), and wherein a volume enclosed by the packaging container (10) in the first packaging configuration (34) is different from a volume enclosed by the packaging container (10) in the second packaging configuration (36).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a packaging container for transporting goods, wherein the packaging container is configured to be converted from an idle configuration to a first packaging configuration by a first folding method, and from an idle configuration to a second packaging configuration by a second folding method.

[0002] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a folding method for folding a packaging container from an idle configuration to a first packaging configuration.

[0003] Furthermore, the present invention relates to a folding method for folding a packaging container from an idle configuration to a second packaging configuration. Background Technology

[0004] With the development of e-commerce, the number of goods delivered in packaged containers is steadily increasing. This growth also has a potential negative impact on the environment. A potential problem with existing packaging containers is that they are typically designed for single use. Once opened, they are discarded, resulting in unnecessary waste.

[0005] To provide sustainable packaging solutions for shipping goods, one possibility is to offer reusable packaging containers that can be used for multiple shipments.

[0006] Document WO 2020 / 079195 A1 describes a reusable and returnable mailbag. It is made of a flexible, reusable container forming a cavity with an opening having a reusable closure with a tamper-evident seal. The container has a first configuration for receiving goods for transport to or from a customer and a second compact configuration for the customer to return the container. The container has one or more retaining features to secure the container in the second configuration.

[0007] While mail bags made of flexible materials (also known as fly bags) have the advantage of being usable for goods of various shapes, they can cause problems during transport. One potential issue is that mail bags may wrinkle. Wrinkling not only affects the security of the packaged goods but also the logistics process. Wrinkling may prevent scanners from scanning the labels on the mail bag or even cause the mail bag to get stuck in the conveyor belt used for sorting. Furthermore, flexible mail bags do not allow for determining shipping costs by volumetric weighing.

[0008] On the other hand, using boxes as packaging containers provides greater protection for packaged goods. Furthermore, boxes allow for volumetric weighing. However, boxes have predetermined dimensions and cannot be adapted to the shape of the delivered goods. Therefore, boxes fail to meet a key aspect of sustainable packaging solutions: packaging containers should meet diverse packaging needs. This leads to situations where various sizes of boxes are available, complicating storage management.

[0009] US2007 / 235352 A1 describes a container that can be folded between an open mode for receiving material and a fixed mode, in which its top is double-folded and secured with fasteners to hold material within the container, or when the container is folded to align releasable fasteners and form a through-pocket for receiving accessories, allowing the container to fold between an open mode and a storage mode. In the storage mode, the container can be easily carried in a pouch or handbag until it is necessary to receive unwanted material for processing. The container can be unfolded from the storage mode to the open mode to receive material.

[0010] US2010 / 327048 A1 relates to a packaging container including a main body panel defined as a front and a back by a first fold line. The front includes a second fold line and a third fold line. The second and third fold lines define two connecting portions. The main body panel also includes a closing panel. A fourth fold line is located between the front and the closing panel. The back is folded upward along the first fold line, and the connecting portions are folded inward along the second and third fold lines. The connecting portions are glued to the back. A first pre-fold line and a second pre-fold line are located between the second and third fold lines. A fifth and a sixth pre-fold line are located on the back. Two seventh and two eighth pre-fold lines are defined. Summary of the Invention

[0011] In view of this situation, the object of the present invention is to provide a packaging container that meets different packaging needs and is less prone to problems during transportation.

[0012] This objective is achieved through a packaging container and a method for folding the packaging container. Advantageous embodiments are specified in the detailed description.

[0013] Therefore, this objective is achieved by a packaging container for transporting goods, wherein the packaging container is configured to transform from an idle configuration to a first packaging configuration by a first folding method, and from an idle configuration to a second packaging configuration by a second folding method.

[0014] In the idle configuration, the packaging container is collapsible, allowing the two opposite surfaces of the container in the idle configuration to come into direct contact with each other.

[0015] In both the first and second packaging configurations, the packaging containers are configured such that two opposite faces of the packaging containers in either the first or second packaging configuration are attached to each other by dimensionally stable side members.

[0016] The volume enclosed by the packaging container in the first packaging configuration is different from the volume enclosed by the packaging container in the second packaging configuration, and

[0017] In the first packaging configuration, the dimensionally stable side member is formed by the first outer surface portion of two opposing sides of the packaging container in the idle configuration, and / or

[0018] In the second packaging configuration, the dimensionally stable side member is formed by the first outer surface portion and the middle surface portion of the two opposite sides of the packaging container in the idle configuration.

[0019] One aspect of the packaging container is that it is configured to fold from an idle configuration into two different packaging configurations, wherein the volumes enclosed by the packaging container in the two packaging configurations are different from each other. Preferably, the volume enclosed by the packaging container in the first packaging configuration is larger than the volume enclosed by the packaging container in the second packaging configuration. Due to the two different volumes enclosed by the packaging container in the first and second packaging configurations, the packaging container can suit different packaging needs and can be used for goods of different shapes.

[0020] Furthermore, in the idle configuration, the packaging container is collapsible, meaning that in this configuration, the two opposite sides of the packaging container can be in direct contact with each other. Preferably, the packaging container is flat when the two opposite sides are in direct contact. Therefore, in the idle configuration, the packaging containers can be easily stored by stacking multiple packaging containers in the idle configuration and collapsing on top of each other. Thus, space-saving storage of the packaging containers can be achieved.

[0021] Another aspect of the packaging container is that, in both the first and second packaging configurations, the container is configured such that two opposite sides of the container are attached to each other by dimensionally stable side members. Preferably, in both the first and / or second packaging configurations, the container is non-collapseable. Therefore, compared to mailbags made entirely of flexible materials, the packaging container allows for volumetric weighing. This simplifies the transportation process and significantly reduces the risk of the goods being crushed or stuck in the conveyor belt during transport. Furthermore, the dimensionally stable side members ensure greater protection for the packaged goods.

[0022] Another aspect of the packaging container is that it needs to be folded to change its configuration from an idle configuration to a first packaging configuration and / or to a second packaging configuration. While mailbags made entirely of flexible material can be shaped by simply bending the flexible material at any specific point, the packaging container of the present invention can be folded along predefined folding edges. In other words, being configured to transform from an idle configuration to a first and / or second packaging configuration means that the packaging container includes folding edges that allow the dimensionally stable portion of the packaging container to be folded along these edges. Preferably, the edges along which the dimensionally stable side pieces are attached to the two opposite faces of the packaging container in the first and / or second packaging configurations are the folding edges of the packaging container.

[0023] Furthermore, in the first packaging configuration, the dimensionally stable side member is formed by the first outer surface portion of two opposing sides of the packaging container in the idle configuration, and / or in the second packaging configuration, the dimensionally stable side member is formed by the first outer surface portion and the middle surface portion of two opposing sides of the packaging container in the idle configuration.

[0024] In other words, the packaging container combines the advantages of mailbags made of flexible materials, as the size of the packaging container is adaptable and in the idle configuration, the packaging container is collapsible, and it has the advantages of a box, as in the first and / or second packaging configurations, the packaging container allows for volumetric weight, is more robust, and reduces problems during transportation.

[0025] In both the first and second packaging configurations, the packaging container is configured such that two opposite faces of the packaging container are attached to each other by dimensionally stable side members. Preferably, in the first and / or second packaging configurations, the dimensionally stable side members form the plane of the packaging container. More preferably, in the first and / or second packaging configurations, the packaging container has a substantially cubic shape, wherein the two opposite faces are substantially parallel to each other and / or the dimensionally stable side members are substantially perpendicular to each of the two faces. In the context of the invention, having a substantially cubic shape preferably means that there may be a parallel deviation of ±40 degrees from the two opposite faces, and / or a right angle deviation of ±20 degrees between the dimensionally stable side members and the two opposite faces. Furthermore, having a substantially cubic shape preferably also means that all six faces of the packaging container do not need to be planar. Preferably, in the first and / or second packaging configurations, at least one of the six faces of the packaging container is planar, more preferably, at least two of the six faces of the packaging container are planar, and even more preferably, three of the six faces of the packaging container are planar. This allows for a high degree of protection of the packaged goods through the plane of the packaging container in the first and / or second packaging configurations, while still allowing the packaging container to be dimensionally adaptable and collapsible in the idle configuration.

[0026] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the packaging containers are configured such that the extent of the packaging containers differs along only one dimension in both the first and second packaging configurations. As already mentioned, the volume enclosed by the packaging container in the first packaging configuration differs from the volume enclosed by the packaging container in the second packaging configuration. Furthermore, the two preferred cubic shapes of the packaging containers in the two packaging configurations preferably differ along only one dimension. In other words, preferably, two of the three dimensions describing the cube (i.e., length, width, and height) are equal for both the packaging container in the first and second packaging configurations. More preferably, the volume difference between the packaging container in the first and second packaging configurations is proportional to the difference in the extent of the packaging containers along one dimension.

[0027] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, each of the two opposing faces of the packaging container in its idle configuration includes a dimensionally stable first outer face portion, a dimensionally stable middle face portion, and a dimensionally stable second outer face portion joined to each other by a flexible joint. Preferably, the joint of each of the two opposing faces of the packaging container in its idle configuration (i.e., the faces that can directly contact each other) consists of three face portions (i.e., a first outer face portion, a middle face portion, and a second outer face portion), wherein the three face portions are attached to each other by a flexible joint. More preferably, the flexible joint forms a folding edge of the packaging container for folding the packaging container from its idle configuration into a first packaging configuration and / or a second packaging configuration.

[0028] The first outer surface portion, the middle surface portion, and the second outer surface portion are preferably dimensionally stable. More preferably, the first outer surface portion, the middle surface portion, and / or the second outer surface portion comprises a non-flexible and / or rigid material, such as cardboard. Preferably, the first outer surface portion, the middle surface portion, and / or the second outer surface portion has a rectangular shape. More preferably, the first outer surface portion and / or the second outer surface portion is joined to the middle surface portion. More preferably, the middle surface portion is joined to the first outer surface portion and the second outer surface portion. Even more preferably, the first outer surface portion is joined to the middle surface portion at a first edge, and the second outer surface portion is joined to the middle surface portion at a second edge, wherein the first and second edges of the middle surface portion are parallel to each other. More preferably, the form in which the first outer surface portion, the middle surface portion, and the second outer surface portion are joined together (i.e., preferably the form of the face of the packaging container in an idle configuration) is rectangular.

[0029] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, in the idle configuration, two opposing surfaces are circumferentially attached to each other by flexible sidewalls. This has the advantage that the packaging container can collapse in the idle configuration. During collapse, the flexible sidewalls bend and ensure that the two opposing surfaces are in direct contact with each other, each of which preferably includes a dimensionally stable first outer surface portion, a dimensionally stable middle surface portion, and a dimensionally stable second outer surface portion. When collapsed, the packaging container is flat. The flexible sidewalls are preferably made of a flexible material.

[0030] As already mentioned, the first outer surface portion, the middle surface portion, and / or the second outer surface portion preferably comprise non-flexible and / or rigid materials, while the flexible sidewalls preferably comprise flexible materials. More preferably, the flexible joint between the first outer surface portion, the middle surface portion, and / or the second outer surface portion (which preferably forms the folded edge of the packaging container) also comprises flexible material. For example, the two opposing surfaces and the flexible sidewalls of the packaging container in an idle configuration can be entirely made of flexible material, while non-flexible material is used as reinforcement on the two opposing surfaces to form the first outer surface portion, the middle surface portion, and / or the second outer surface portion. Thus, the flexible material on the two opposing surfaces between the reinforcing portions forms a flexible joint.

[0031] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, the flexible material is preferably a durable, impermeable, impact-resistant, abrasion-resistant, cut-resistant, lightweight, and / or waterproof packaging material. For example, the flexible material may be a fabric comprising polypropylene, polystyrene, polyester, glass fiber, carbon fiber, para-aramid synthetic fiber composites, and / or Kevlar. For example, materials known under the trademark Paua from Paua Trading Limited can be used as the flexible material.

[0032] As already mentioned, preferably, in the first and / or second packaging configurations, the packaging container has a substantially cubic shape. In this regard, and according to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the packaging container is configured such that, in the first and / or second packaging configurations, the packaging container includes three dimensionally stable faces. The dimensionally stable faces preferably comprise non-flexible and / or rigid materials, such as cardboard. More preferably, in the first and / or second packaging configurations, the packaging container is configured such that the three faces of the packaging container comprise dimensionally stable materials. Further preferably, the three dimensionally stable faces are two opposite faces of the packaging container and dimensionally stable side members. The three dimensionally stable faces have the advantage of providing additional protection for the goods within the packaging container. Furthermore, they make the packaging container easier to handle during transport because the risk of wrinkling is reduced. Additionally, since the dimensionally stable faces provide a smooth surface through which the packaging container can slide during sorting, the risk of the packaging container getting stuck in the conveyor belt is reduced. Moreover, the cubic shape ensures that volumetric weighing can be applied to the packaging container.

[0033] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, in the first packaging configuration and / or the second packaging configuration, two opposing surfaces are at least partially attached to each other by flexible sidewalls. As already mentioned in the first and second packaging configurations, the two opposing surfaces are attached to each other by dimensionally stable side members. Furthermore, the two opposing surfaces are at least partially attached to each other by flexible sidewalls. In other words, in the first and / or second packaging configurations, some surfaces of the packaging container are made of a flexible material, while other surfaces are made of a dimensionally stable material.

[0034] More preferably, in the idle configuration, the first packaging configuration, and / or the second packaging configuration, the two opposing faces are rectangular. In the idle configuration, preferably, all four sides of the rectangular faces are attached to each other by flexible sidewalls. In the first packaging configuration and / or the second packaging configuration, preferably, three of the four sides of the opposing rectangular faces are attached to each other by flexible sidewalls.

[0035] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, the forms of the first outer surface portion and the middle surface portion are consistent with each other, and / or the forms of the first outer surface portion and the middle surface portion are such that the engagement form in which the first outer surface portion and the middle surface portion are joined together by a flexible joint is consistent with the form of the second outer surface portion. Furthermore, preferably, the width of the flexible sidewall corresponds to the width of the first outer surface portion and / or the middle surface portion. These features ensure that the packaging container can be easily folded from an idle configuration to a first packaging configuration and / or from an idle configuration to a second packaging configuration. Moreover, since the forms of the first outer surface portion and the middle surface portion are such that the engagement form in which the first outer surface portion and the middle surface portion are joined together by a flexible joint is consistent with the form of the second outer surface portion, the packaging container in the idle configuration, when in a collapsed state such that the two opposing surfaces are in direct contact with each other, can preferably be folded along the common edge between the second outer surface portion and the middle surface portion to form the second idle configuration. In the second idle configuration, the packaging container is preferably flat and includes a smaller base area.

[0036] As already mentioned, in the idle configuration, each of the two opposing faces of the packaging container in the idle configuration includes a dimensionally stable first outer face portion, a dimensionally stable middle face portion, and a dimensionally stable second outer face portion joined to each other by a flexible joint. Preferably, the packaging container is transformed into a first packaging configuration and / or a second packaging configuration by folding the dimensionally stable first outer face portion, middle face portion, and / or second outer face portion along the folding edge defined by the flexible joint, thereby producing a packaging container in the first packaging configuration and / or the second packaging configuration. In both the first and second packaging configurations, the packaging container includes two opposing faces. In this context and according to another preferred embodiment of the invention, in the first packaging configuration, each of the two opposing faces includes two dimensionally stable face portions joined to each other by a flexible joint, and / or in the second packaging configuration, each of the two opposing faces includes one dimensionally stable face portion.

[0037] Preferably, in the first packaging configuration, the two opposing faces are formed by the second outer surface portion and the middle surface portion of the two opposing faces of the packaging container in the idle configuration. More preferably, in the first packaging configuration, the form of the first surface portion of the two surface portions conforms to the form of the dimensionally stable side member. This ensures that the packaging container is easy to fold. In this context and more preferably, in the second packaging configuration, the two opposing faces are formed by the second outer surface portion of the two opposing faces of the packaging container in the idle configuration.

[0038] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, the packaging container in the first and / or second packaging configuration is waterproof and / or splash-proof, and / or the packaging container is reusable, and / or the packaging container includes an opening with a reusable closure. This has the advantage of protecting goods transported by the packaging container from water. Furthermore, the packaging container can be opened and closed multiple times, thus ensuring its reusability and environmental friendliness. Therefore, unnecessary waste can be reduced.

[0039] Regarding the opening, preferably, the flexible sidewall includes an opening. More preferably, the opening and / or reusable closure are arranged such that they extend parallel to the edges of two opposite sides of the packaging container. More preferably, the reusable closure is a waterproof and / or splash-proof zipper.

[0040] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, the packaging container includes at least one fastening device configured to secure the packaging container to a first packaging configuration and / or a second packaging configuration. Preferably, the packaging container includes a first fastening device for securing the packaging container to the first packaging configuration and a second fastening device for securing the packaging container to the second packaging configuration. This fastening device has the advantage of preventing the packaging container in the first and / or second packaging configurations from voluntarily unfolding into an idle configuration. Preferably, the fastening device is reusable, waterproof, and / or splash-proof.

[0041] Preferably, when the packaging container is folded from the idle configuration to the second packaging configuration, the first fastening device for securing the packaging container in the first packaging configuration is folded inward. More preferably, when the packaging container is folded and secured in the second packaging configuration, the first fastening device is not visible on the outside or inside of the packaging container.

[0042] As already mentioned, each of the two opposing sides of a packaging container in an idle configuration includes a dimensionally stable first outer side portion, a dimensionally stable middle side portion, and a dimensionally stable second outer side portion joined to each other by a flexible joint. In this context and according to another preferred embodiment of the invention, a first fastening device is configured to fasten the common edge of the first outer side portion and the middle side portion of the first side to the outer edge of the first outer side portion of the second side. In other words, and preferably, the common edge of the first outer side portion and the middle side portion of one of the two opposing sides (i.e., also serving as a flexible joint where the first outer side portion and / or the middle side can be folded along its folded edge) is fastened to the outer edge of the first outer side portion of the opposing side.

[0043] Furthermore, or alternatively, and according to another preferred embodiment of the invention, the second fastening device is at least configured to fasten the common edge of the middle surface portion and the second outer surface portion of the first face of the two opposing faces to the common edge of the first outer surface portion and the middle surface portion of the second face of the two opposing faces. In other words, and preferably, the common edge of the middle surface portion and the second outer surface portion of one of the two opposing faces (i.e., also serving as a flexible joint where the middle surface portion and / or the second outer surface portion can be folded along its folded edge) is fastened to the common edge of the first outer surface portion and the middle surface portion of the opposing face, i.e., also serving as a flexible joint where the first outer surface portion and / or the middle surface portion can be folded along its folded edge.

[0044] Different fastening devices can be used. Preferably, the fastening device is a reusable fastening device. According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, the fastening device is a zipper, a magnetic fastening device, a hook and loop closure, a hook and loop fastener, and / or a snap fastener.

[0045] Preferably, the fastening device is a zipper. More preferably, the first zipper is positioned at least along the common edge of the first outer surface portion and the middle surface portion of the first of the two opposing faces, and along the outer edge of the first outer surface portion of the second of the two opposing faces. Even more preferably, the second zipper is positioned at least along the common edge of the second outer surface portion and the middle surface portion of the first of the two opposing faces, and at least along the common edge of the first outer surface portion and the middle surface portion of the second of the two opposing faces. This configuration has the advantage of providing a smooth surface for the packaging container in the first packaging configuration and / or the second packaging configuration. Therefore, friction of the packaging container during transportation is reduced.

[0046] According to the above description and another preferred embodiment of the invention, in the first packaging configuration, one of the two opposing faces of the packaging container has no fastening device within a region of that face. When a zipper is used as the fastening device, preferably in the first packaging configuration, only one of the four edges of one of the two opposing faces includes a zipper, while two of the four edges partially include a zipper, and one of the four edges does not have a zipper. Therefore, since the fastening device is arranged along the edge of one of the two opposing faces, there is no fastening device within a region of that face of the packaging container.

[0047] According to another preferred embodiment of the invention, in the second packaging configuration, there are no fastening devices on the two opposing sides of the packaging container within the area of ​​the packaging container's surface. Preferably, when a zipper is used as the fastening device, in the second packaging configuration, all edges of one of the two opposing sides are completely free of fastening devices, and / or in the second packaging configuration, only one of the four edges of one of the two opposing sides includes a zipper, while the other three edges do not. Therefore, since the fastening device is arranged along the edge of one side on one side, there are no fastening devices within the area of ​​one side of the packaging container, while the opposing sides do not include fastening devices along their edges and / or within the area of ​​that side.

[0048] By providing unsecured sides and / or edges for the packaging containers, the risk of the containers getting stuck on the conveyor belt or hindering the sorting process is reduced.

[0049] In summary, the packaging container meets different packaging needs by being configured to fold into two different packaging configurations. In this configuration, due to the dimensionally stable side pieces attached to the two opposing sides of the packaging container in the first and / or second packaging configurations, the packaging container provides greater protection for the packaged goods and is less prone to problems during transport. Further features and advantages of the packaging container will be directly and clearly derived by those skilled in the art from the description of the first and second folding methods.

[0050] As already mentioned, the present invention also relates to a first folding method for folding a packaging container from an idle configuration to a first packaging configuration.

[0051] Therefore, this objective is achieved by a folding method for folding a packaging container from an idle configuration to a first packaging configuration, wherein the packaging container is configured to transform from an idle configuration to a first packaging configuration by a folding method, and to transform from an idle configuration to a second packaging configuration by another folding method.

[0052] In both the first and second packaging configurations, the packaging containers are configured such that two opposite faces of the packaging containers in either the first or second packaging configuration are attached to each other by dimensionally stable side members.

[0053] Wherein, the volume enclosed by the packaging container in the first packaging configuration is different from the volume enclosed by the packaging container in the second packaging configuration, the method includes the following steps:

[0054] - A packaging container in an idle configuration is provided, wherein, in the idle configuration, the packaging container collapses such that the lower and upper surfaces of two opposing sides of the packaging container in the idle configuration are in direct contact with each other, and wherein each of the lower and upper surfaces includes a dimensionally stable first outer surface portion, a dimensionally stable middle surface portion, and a dimensionally stable second outer surface portion joined together by a flexible joint.

[0055] - Form dimensionally stable side members through the following steps:

[0056] ○ Fold the first outer surface downwards, and

[0057] Fold the lower first outer surface portion over the upper folded first outer surface portion, so that the upper first outer surface portion and the lower first outer surface portion overlap.

[0058] The side member that makes the packaging container in the first packaging configuration dimensionally stable is formed by the first outer surface portion of the two opposite sides of the packaging container in the idle configuration.

[0059] Preferably, when the upper first outer surface portion is folded downwards, a preform of a stable side member is formed between the first surface and the second surface of the packaging container in the first packaging configuration by folding the upper first outer surface portion downwards along the common edge of the first outer surface portion and the middle surface portion. The preform is reinforced and forms a dimensionally stable side member of the packaging container in the first packaging configuration by folding the lower first outer surface portion upwards onto the upper folded first outer surface portion.

[0060] Furthermore, preferably, in the idle configuration, the two opposing faces are rectangular and circumferentially attached to each other by flexible sidewalls. The flexible sidewalls have the advantage that when the lower first outer face portion is folded downwards, the flexible sidewall is folded onto the lower first outer face portion. Furthermore, when the lower first outer face portion is folded upwards onto the upper downward-folded first outer face portion, the inwardly folded flexible sidewall terminates between the upper and lower first outer face portions.

[0061] More preferably, the method includes the step of closing a first fastening device, wherein the first fastening device is configured to secure the packaging container to a first packaging configuration. The packaging container is secured to the first packaging configuration by closing the first fastening device, preferably a zipper. Preferably, in the first packaging configuration, the first fastening device extends along three edges of a dimensionally stable side piece.

[0062] As already mentioned, the present invention also relates to a second folding method for folding a packaging container from an idle configuration to a second packaging configuration.

[0063] Therefore, this objective is achieved by a folding method for folding a packaging container from an idle configuration to a second packaging configuration, wherein the packaging container is configured to transform from an idle configuration to a second packaging configuration by a folding method, and to transform from an idle configuration to a first packaging configuration by another folding method.

[0064] In both the first and second packaging configurations, the packaging containers are configured such that two opposite faces of the packaging containers in either the first or second packaging configuration are attached to each other by dimensionally stable side members.

[0065] Wherein, the volume enclosed by the packaging container in the first packaging configuration is different from the volume enclosed by the packaging container in the second packaging configuration, the method includes the following steps:

[0066] - A packaging container in an idle configuration is provided, wherein, in the idle configuration, the packaging container collapses such that the lower and upper surfaces of two opposing sides of the packaging container in the idle configuration are in direct contact with each other, and wherein each of the lower and upper surfaces includes a dimensionally stable first outer surface portion, a dimensionally stable middle surface portion, and a dimensionally stable second outer surface portion joined together by a flexible joint.

[0067] - Form dimensionally stable side members through the following steps:

[0068] ○ Make the upper first outer surface portion directly contact the lower middle surface portion, so that the outer surface portion and the middle surface portion coincide, and

[0069] Fold the lower first outer surface portion over the upper first outer surface portion, so that the lower first outer surface portion overlaps with the upper first outer surface portion, and

[0070] ○ The lower first outer surface portion, the upper first outer surface portion, and the lower middle surface portion are all aligned with the upper middle surface portion.

[0071] The side member that makes the packaging container in the second packaging configuration dimensionally stable is formed by the first outer surface portion and the middle surface portion of the two opposite sides of the packaging container in the idle configuration.

[0072] Preferably, the step of making the upper first outer surface portion directly contact the lower middle surface portion so that the outer surface portion and the middle surface portion overlap includes making the upper first outer surface portion directly contact the lower middle surface portion, such that the upper middle surface portion is folded downward and the lower first outer surface portion is folded upward.

[0073] Furthermore, preferably, in the idle configuration, the two opposing faces are rectangular and circumferentially attached to each other by flexible sidewalls. The flexible sidewalls have the advantage that when the upper first outer surface portion is brought into direct contact with the lower middle surface portion so that the outer surface portion and the middle surface portion overlap, the flexible sidewall is folded onto the lower first outer surface portion.

[0074] More preferably, the step of folding the lower first outer surface portion onto the upper first outer surface portion such that the lower first outer surface portion overlaps with the upper first outer surface portion includes folding the lower first outer surface portion onto the upper first outer surface portion such that the inwardly folded flexible sidewall is located between the upper first outer surface portion and the lower downwardly folded first outer surface portion.

[0075] More preferably, the step of folding the lower first outer surface portion, the upper first outer surface portion, and the lower middle surface portion together toward the upper middle surface portion includes: folding the lower first outer surface portion, the inwardly folded flexible sidewall, the upper first outer surface portion, and the lower middle surface portion together toward the upper middle surface portion.

[0076] More preferably, the method includes the step of closing a second fastening device, wherein the second fastening device is configured to secure the packaging container in a second packaging configuration. The packaging container is secured in the second packaging configuration by closing the second fastening device, preferably a zipper.

[0077] Preferably, in the second packaging configuration, the second fastening device extends along the three edges of the dimensionally stable side member. More preferably, when the packaging container is folded from the idle configuration to the second packaging configuration, the fastening device used to fasten the packaging container in the first packaging configuration (i.e., the first fastening device) is folded inward and no longer visible when the packaging container is folded and fastened in the second packaging configuration. Therefore, in the second packaging configuration, the first fastening device does not provide friction and simplifies the handling of the packaging container during transportation.

[0078] Those skilled in the art can directly and clearly derive further features and advantages of the first and / or second methods from the packaging containers described above. Attached Figure Description

[0079] The present invention will now be explained in more detail by way of preferred embodiments with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0080] In the attached diagram:

[0081] Figures 1a) to 1c) Schematic diagrams of a packaging container in an idle configuration according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention are shown from different angles.

[0082] Figures 2a) to 2c) The first packaging configuration is shown from different angles. Figures 1a) to 1c) A diagram of the packaging container.

[0083] Figures 3a) to 3c) The second packaging configuration is shown from different angles. Figures 1a) to 1c) A diagram of the packaging container.

[0084] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of a method for folding a packaging container from an idle configuration to a first packaging configuration according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown, and

[0085] Figure 5A schematic diagram of a method for folding a packaging container from an idle configuration to a second packaging configuration according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention is shown. Detailed Implementation

[0086] Figures 1a) to 1c) Schematic diagrams of a preferred embodiment of the packaging container 10 in its idle configuration 12 are shown from different angles. The packaging container 10 in its idle configuration 12 is collapsible, such that the two opposing surfaces 14 and 16 of the packaging containers 10 and 12 are in direct contact with each other. In the collapsed state, as... Figure 1b As shown in the figure, packaging containers 10 and 12 are flat.

[0087] like Figure 1a As shown in the figure, this diagram illustrates two opposing surfaces 14 and 16 of a packaging container 10 in an idle configuration 12. Each of the two opposing surfaces 14 and 16 of the packaging container 10 in the idle configuration 12 includes a dimensionally stable first outer surface portion 18, a dimensionally stable intermediate surface portion 20, and a dimensionally stable second outer surface portion 22. The three surface portions 18, 20, and 22 are joined together by flexible joints 24 and 26.

[0088] like Figures 1a) to 1c) As can also be seen, the two opposing surfaces 14 and 16 are circumferentially attached to each other via flexible sidewalls 28. The flexible sidewalls 28 allow the packaging container 10 to be collapsible in the idle configuration 12. Figure 1c The image shows a packaging container 10 in an idle configuration 12, with goods packaged inside the container 10. Therefore, the two opposing surfaces 14, 16 are spaced apart and the flexible sidewalls 28 are stretched. Figures 1a) to 1c) As can also be seen, the flexible sidewall 28 of the packaging container 10 includes an opening 30 with a reusable closure 32 for filling the packaging container with goods. In this embodiment, the reusable closure 32 is a zipper 32.

[0089] In this preferred embodiment of the invention, the two opposing surfaces 14, 16 and the three surface portions 18, 20, 22 are rectangular. Furthermore, the first outer surface portion 18 and the middle surface portion 20 are aligned with each other. Additionally, the form of the joined first outer surface portion 18 and middle surface portion 20 is consistent with the form of the second outer surface portion 22.

[0090] Furthermore, in this preferred embodiment, the first surface 14, the second surface 16, and the flexible sidewall 28 of the packaging container 10 are made of a soft material sheet. The first surface 14 and the second surface 16 are each reinforced by three cardboard panels, thereby forming three surface portions 18, 20, and 22, and the soft material between the three surface portions 18, 20, and 22 forms flexible joints 24 and 26. The cardboard panels used for the first outer surface portion 18 and the middle surface portion 20 are 9.5 cm × 32 cm, while the cardboard panels used for the second outer surface portion 22 are 20 cm × 32 cm. To allow the packaging container 10 to fold along the flexible joints 24 and 26, the width of the cardboard panels used for the first outer surface portion 18 and the middle surface portion 20 is approximately 0.5 cm smaller than half the width of the cardboard panel used for the second outer surface portion 22. Therefore, the form of the first outer surface portion 18 and the middle surface portion 20, joined together by the flexible joint 24, is consistent with the form of the second outer surface portion 22.

[0091] Packaging container 10 is configured for use by a first folding method (see...) Figure 4 ) Transform from idle configuration 12 to first packaging configuration 34 (see Figures 2a) to 2c) ), and through a second folding method (see Figure 5 ) Convert from idle configuration 12 to second packaging configuration 36 (see Figures 3a) to 3c) In the first packaging configuration 34 and the second packaging configuration 36, the packaging container 10 is non-collapseable and has a cubic shape.

[0092] To secure the packaging container 10 to the first packaging configuration 34, the packaging container 10 includes a first fastening device 38. In this preferred embodiment, the first fastening device 38 is a zipper 38 configured to secure the packaging container 10 to the first packaging configuration 34. The zipper 38 is attached to the packaging container 10 such that the common edge 40 of the first outer surface portion 18 and the middle surface portion 20 of the first surface 14 is fastened to the outer edge 42 of the first outer surface portion 18 of the second surface 16.

[0093] To secure the packaging container 10 to the second packaging configuration 36, the packaging container 10 includes a second fastening device 44. In this preferred embodiment, the first fastening device 44 is a zipper 44 configured to secure the packaging container 10 to the second packaging configuration 36. The zipper 44 is attached to the packaging container 10 such that the common edge 46 of the middle portion 20 of the first surface 14 and the second outer surface portion 22 is fastened to the common edge 48 of the first outer surface portion 18 and the middle surface portion 20 of the second surface 16.

[0094] When the packaging container 10 is folded from the idle configuration 12 into the first packaging configuration 34 and / or the second packaging configuration 36, the surface portions 18, 20, 22 are folded along the flexible joints 24, 26 that serve as folding edges. Then, the fastening devices 38, 44 are closed.

[0095] When the packaging container 10 is folded from the idle configuration 12 into the first packaging configuration 34, the common edge 40 of the first outer surface portion 18 and the middle surface portion 20 of the first surface 14 (i.e., also serving as a flexible joint 24 along which the first outer surface portion 18 and / or the middle surface portion 20 can be folded) is fastened to the outer edge 42 of the first outer surface portion 18 of the second surface 16.

[0096] Furthermore, when the packaging container 10 is folded from its idle configuration 12 into the second packaging configuration 36, the common edge 46 of the middle surface portion 18 of the first surface 14 and the second outer surface portion 20 (i.e., also serving as a flexible joint 26 along which the middle surface portion 20 and / or the second outer surface portion 22 can be folded) is fastened to the common edge 48 of the first outer surface portion 18 and the middle surface portion 20 of the second surface 16, i.e., also serving as a flexible joint 24 along which the first outer surface portion 18 and / or the middle surface portion 20 can be folded.

[0097] Figures 2a) to 2c) The first packaging configuration 34 is shown from different angles. Figures 1a) to 1c) A schematic diagram of the packaging container 10. In the first packaging configuration 34, the packaging container 10 is configured such that two opposing surfaces 50, 52 of the packaging container 10 are attached to each other by a dimensionally stable side member 54. The dimensionally stable side member 54 is formed by a first outer surface portion 18 of the packaging container 10 in the idle configuration 12. The two opposing surfaces 50, 52 are each formed by a middle surface portion 20 and a second outer surface portion 22 of the packaging container 10 in the idle configuration 12. Figure 2a The image shows a packaging container 10 in a first packaging configuration 34, in an empty state and in a state filled with goods, located on the first surface 50. Figure 2b )and Figure 2c This illustrates the packaging container 10 in its first packaging configuration 34 when it is positioned on the side member 54. In this configuration, the opening 30 is located on the top of the packaging container 10. Figure 2a As best seen in the diagram, the width 56 of the flexible sidewall corresponds to the width 58 of the first outer surface portion 18 and / or the width 60 of the middle surface portion 20.

[0098] Figures 3a) to 3c) The second packaging configuration 36 is shown from different angles. Figures 1a) to 1c)A schematic diagram of the packaging container 10. In the second packaging configuration 36, the packaging container 10 is configured such that two opposing surfaces 62, 64 of the packaging container 10 are attached to each other by dimensionally stable side members 54. The dimensionally stable side members 54 are formed by the first outer surface portion 18 and the middle surface portion 20 of the packaging container 10 in the idle configuration 12. The two opposing surfaces 62, 64 are each formed by the second outer surface portion 22 of the packaging container 10 in the idle configuration 12. Therefore, the volume enclosed by the packaging container 10 in the second packaging configuration 36 is smaller than the volume enclosed by the packaging container 10 in the first packaging configuration 34. Figure 3a The image shows an empty packaging container 10 in a second packaging configuration 36 located on face 64, having an open reusable closure 32 on the left and a closed reusable closure 32 on the right. Figure 3b The image shows the packaging container 10 in the second packaging configuration 36 when filled with goods, while Figure 3c The image shows a packaging container 10 in a second packaging configuration 36, standing on a dimensionally stable side member 54.

[0099] When comparing Figure 2b )and Figure 3c When ), it is clear that the only difference between the packaging container 10 in the first packaging configuration 34 and the packaging container 10 in the second packaging configuration 36 lies along one dimension (in Figure 2b )and Figure 3c The range of height 66 for packaging container 10 is shown in the figure. The ranges along the other two dimensions are the same.

[0100] Figure 4 A folding method for folding a packaging container 10 from an idle configuration 12 to a first packaging configuration 34, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, is shown.

[0101] In the first step of this method, a packaging container 10 in an idle configuration 12 is provided such that the first face 14 of the packaging container 10 in the idle configuration 12 faces upward, forming a top surface 14. The top surface 14 of the packaging container 10 is marked with stripes. For comparison, Figure 4 The bottom 16 of the packaging container 10 is also shown, marked with dots.

[0102] Next, a dimensionally stable side member 54 is formed. This is achieved by folding the first outer surface portion 18 of the upper 14 toward the lower 16. When the first outer surface portion 18 of the upper 14 is folded downward along the common edge 40 of the first outer surface portion 18 and the intermediate surface portion 20, the flexible sidewall 28 is folded onto the first outer surface portion 18 of the lower 16.

[0103] Then, the first outer surface portion 18 of the lower 16 is folded onto the folded first outer surface portion 18 of the upper 14, so that the first outer surface portion 18 of the upper 14 and the first outer surface portion 18 of the lower 16 overlap. When the first outer surface portion 18 of the lower 16 is folded upward onto the downward folded first outer surface portion 18 of the upper 14, the first outer surface portion 18 of the upper 14, the inwardly folded flexible sidewall 28, and the first outer surface portion 18 of the lower 16 overlap.

[0104] In the final step of the method, the first fastening device 38 is closed.

[0105] Figure 5 A folding method for folding a packaging container 10 from an idle configuration 12 to a second packaging configuration 36, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, is shown.

[0106] In the first step of this method, a packaging container 10 in an idle configuration 12 is provided such that the first face 14 of the packaging container 10 in the idle configuration 12 faces upward, forming a top surface 14. The top surface 14 of the packaging container 10 is marked with stripes. For comparison, Figure 5 The bottom 16 of the packaging container 10 is also shown, marked with dots.

[0107] Next, a dimensionally stable side member 54 is formed. This is achieved by making the first outer surface portion 18 of the upper 14 directly contact the middle surface portion 20 of the lower 16 so that the outer surface portion 18 and the middle surface portion 20 coincide. Figure 5 As can be seen, this step also involves folding the middle surface portion 20 of the upper 14 downward and folding the first outer surface portion 18 of the lower 16 upward. When the first outer surface portion 18 of the upper 14 is brought into direct contact with the middle surface portion 20 of the lower 16 so that the outer surface portion 18 and the middle surface portion 20 overlap, the flexible sidewall 28 is folded onto the first outer surface portion 18 of the lower 16.

[0108] In the next step, the first outer surface portion 18 of the lower 16 is folded over the first outer surface portion 18 of the upper 14, such that the first outer surface portion 18 of the lower 16 coincides with the first outer surface portion 18 of the upper 14. This folding results in the inwardly folded flexible sidewall 28 being located between the first outer surface portion 18 of the upper 14 and the downwardly folded first outer surface portion 18 of the lower 16.

[0109] In the next step, the first outer surface portion 18 of the lower 16, the first outer surface portion 18 of the upper 14, and the middle surface portion 20 of the lower 16 are folded together toward the middle surface portion 20 of the upper 14. In this step, the inwardly folded flexible sidewalls 28 located between the first outer surface portions 18 of the upper 14 are also folded toward the middle surface portion 20 of the upper 14.

[0110] In the final step of the method, the second fastening device 44 is closed.

[0111] List of reference numerals

[0112] Packaging containers 10

[0113] Unused configurations of packaging containers 12

[0114] The first side of the packaging container in its unused configuration, top 14

[0115] On the second side of the packaging container in its unused configuration, below 16

[0116] First outer surface portion 18

[0117] Middle section 20

[0118] Second outer surface portion 22

[0119] The joint 24 between the first outer surface portion and the middle surface portion

[0120] The joint 26 between the middle surface portion and the second outer surface portion

[0121] Flexible sidewall 28

[0122] Opening 30

[0123] Reusable closure, zipper 32

[0124] First packaging configuration 34

[0125] Second packaging configuration 36

[0126] First fastening device, zipper 38

[0127] The common edge 40 of the first outer surface portion and the middle surface portion of the first face.

[0128] The outer edge 42 of the first outer surface portion of the second surface

[0129] Second fastening device, zipper 44

[0130] The common edge 46 of the middle part of the first surface and the second outer surface.

[0131] The common edge 48 of the first outer surface portion and the middle surface portion of the second surface.

[0132] The first side 50 of the packaging container in the first packaging configuration

[0133] The second side 52 of the packaging container in the first packaging configuration

[0134] Dimensionally stable side piece 54

[0135] The width of the side wall is 56.

[0136] The width of the first outer surface portion is 58.

[0137] The width of the middle section is 60.

[0138] The first side 62 of the packaging container in the second packaging configuration

[0139] The second side 64 of the packaging container in the second packaging configuration

[0140] Height 66

Claims

1. A packaging container (10) for transporting goods, wherein, The packaging container (10) is configured to be converted from an idle configuration (12) to a first packaging configuration (34) by a first folding method, and from the idle configuration (12) to a second packaging configuration (36) by a second folding method. In the idle configuration (12), the packaging container (10) is collapsible, such that the two opposing surfaces (14, 16) of the packaging container (10) in the idle configuration (12) are in direct contact with each other. In the first packaging configuration (34) and the second packaging configuration (36), the packaging container (10) is configured such that two opposite faces of the packaging container (10) in the first packaging configuration or the second packaging configuration are attached to each other by dimensionally stable side members (54). The volume enclosed by the packaging container (10) in the first packaging configuration (34) is different from the volume enclosed by the packaging container (10) in the second packaging configuration (36), and In the first packaging configuration (34), the dimensionally stable side member (54) is formed by the first outer surface portion (18) of the two opposing faces (14, 16) of the packaging container (10) in the idle configuration (12), and In the second packaging configuration (36), the dimensionally stable side member (54) is formed by the first outer surface portion (18) and the middle surface portion (20) of the two opposing surfaces (14, 16) of the packaging container (10) in the idle configuration (12). Each of the two opposing faces (14, 16) of the packaging container (10) in the idle configuration (12) includes a dimensionally stable first outer face portion (18), a dimensionally stable middle face portion (20), and a dimensionally stable second outer face portion (22) joined to each other by flexible joints (24, 26). Wherein, the first fastening device (38) is at least configured to fasten the first outer surface portion (18) and the first common edge (40) of the first outer surface portion (20) of the first face (14) and the middle surface portion (20) of the packaging container (10) in the idle configuration (12) to the outer edge (42) of the first outer surface portion (18) of the second face (16) of the packaging container (10) in the idle configuration (12), and / or The second fastening device (44) is configured to fasten the middle surface portion (20) of the first surface (14) and the second outer surface portion (22) to the third common edge (48) of the first outer surface portion (18) and the middle surface portion (20) of the second surface (16).

2. The packaging container (10) according to claim 1, wherein, The packaging container (10) is configured such that in the first packaging configuration (34) and the second packaging configuration (36), the extent of the packaging container (10) differs only along one dimension (66).

3. The packaging container (10) according to claim 1, wherein, The packaging container (10) is configured such that, in the first packaging configuration (34) and / or the second packaging configuration (36), the packaging container (10) has a substantially cubic shape and includes three dimensionally stable faces.

4. The packaging container (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, In the idle configuration (12), the two opposing faces (14, 16) of the packaging container (10) in the idle configuration (12) are circumferentially attached to each other by flexible sidewalls (28), and / or wherein, In the first packaging configuration (34) and / or in the second packaging configuration (36), the two opposing faces of the packaging container (10) in the first packaging configuration (34) or the second packaging configuration (36) are at least partially attached to each other by flexible sidewalls (28).

5. The packaging container (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The form of the first outer surface portion (18) is consistent with the form of the middle surface portion (20), and / or the form of the first outer surface portion (18) and the middle surface portion (20) is such that the joining form of the first outer surface portion (18) and the middle surface portion (20) attached to each other by the flexible joint (24) is consistent with the form of the second outer surface portion (22), and / or the width (56) of the flexible sidewall (28) corresponds to the width (58, 60) of the first outer surface portion (18) and / or the middle surface portion (20).

6. The packaging container (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, In the first packaging configuration (34), each of the two opposing faces (50, 52) of the packaging container (10) in the first packaging configuration (34) includes two dimensionally stable face portions (20, 22) joined to each other by a flexible joint (26), and / or wherein, in the second packaging configuration (36), each of the two opposing faces (62, 64) of the packaging container (10) in the second packaging configuration (36) includes a dimensionally stable face portion (22).

7. The packaging container (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The packaging container (10) in the first packaging configuration (34) and / or the second packaging configuration (36) is waterproof and / or splash-proof, and / or wherein, The packaging container (10) is reusable, and / or the packaging container (10) includes an opening (30) having a reusable closure (32).

8. The packaging container (10) according to claim 1, wherein, The first fastening device (38) of the packaging container (10) is configured to fasten the packaging container (10) to the first packaging configuration (34), and wherein the second fastening device (44) of the packaging container (10) is configured to fasten the packaging container (10) to the second packaging configuration (36).

9. The packaging container (10) according to claim 1, wherein, The first fastening device (38) and / or the second fastening device (44) are zippers, magnetic fastening devices, hook and loop closures, hook and loop fasteners and / or snap fasteners.

10. The packaging container (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, In the first packaging configuration (34), one of the two opposing faces (50, 52) of the packaging container (10) in the first packaging configuration (34) has no fastening device in the area of ​​the one face of the packaging container (10), and / or wherein, in the second packaging configuration (36), the two opposing faces (62, 64) of the packaging container (10) in the second packaging configuration (36) have no fastening device in the area of ​​the face of the packaging container (10).

11. A folding method for folding a packaging container (10) from an idle configuration (12) to a first packaging configuration (34), wherein, The packaging container (10) Configure according to claim 1, The method includes the following steps: - Provide the packaging container (10) in the idle configuration (12), wherein, in the idle configuration (12), the packaging container (10) collapses such that the second surface (16) and the first surface (14) of two opposing surfaces (14, 16) of the packaging container (10) in the idle configuration (12) are in direct contact with each other, and wherein the second surface (16) and the first surface (14) each include a dimensionally stable first outer surface portion (18), a dimensionally stable intermediate surface portion (20) and a dimensionally stable second outer surface portion (22) joined to each other by flexible joints (24, 26). - The dimensionally stable side piece (54) is formed by the following steps: ○ Fold the first outer surface portion (18) of the first surface (14) toward the second surface (16), and Fold the first outer surface portion (18) of the second surface (16) onto the folded first outer surface portion (18) of the first surface (14), so that the first outer surface portion (18) of the first surface (14) and the first outer surface portion (18) of the second surface (16) overlap. The dimensionally stable side member (54) of the packaging container (10) in the first packaging configuration (34) is formed by the first outer surface portion (18) of the two opposing surfaces (14, 16) of the packaging container (10) in the idle configuration (12).

12. A folding method for folding a packaging container (10) from an idle configuration (12) to a second packaging configuration (36), wherein, The packaging container (10) According to claim 1, the method includes the following steps: - Provide the packaging container (10) in the idle configuration (12), wherein, in the idle configuration (12), the packaging container (10) collapses such that the second surface (16) and the first surface (14) of two opposing surfaces (14, 16) of the packaging container (10) in the idle configuration (12) are in direct contact with each other, and wherein the second surface (16) and the first surface (14) each include a dimensionally stable first outer surface portion (18), a dimensionally stable intermediate surface portion (20) and a dimensionally stable second outer surface portion (22) joined to each other by flexible joints (24, 26). - The dimensionally stable side piece (54) is formed by the following steps: ○ Make the first outer surface portion (18) of the first surface (14) directly contact the middle surface portion (20) of the second surface (16), so that the outer surface portion (18) and the middle surface portion (20) overlap, and ○ Fold the first outer surface portion (18) of the second surface (16) onto the first outer surface portion (18) of the first surface (14), such that the first outer surface portion (18) of the second surface (16) coincides with the first outer surface portion (18) of the first surface (14), and Fold the first outer surface portion (18) of the second surface (16), the first outer surface portion (18) of the first surface (14), and the middle surface portion (20) of the second surface (16) together toward the middle surface portion (20) of the first surface (14). The dimensionally stable side member (54) of the packaging container (10) in the second packaging configuration (36) is formed by the first outer surface portion (18) and the middle surface portion (20) of the two opposing surfaces (14, 16) of the packaging container (10) in the idle configuration (12).

Images