Foldable measuring spoon

Abstract

The invention relates to a foldable measuring spoon (1) to be formed by folding a flat sheet (10) of a predetermined shape into a folded state. The measuring spoon (1) comprises a head (2) and a handle (3). The sheet (10) comprises a plurality of segments (4, 5) arranged in succession in a row. The segments (4, 5) comprise: two handle segments (4) arranged at two opposite ends of a row; and a plurality of side wall sections (5; 5 ', 5' ') arranged consecutively along an arc (A) between the two handle sections (4) in the row to define a circumferentially closed side wall (50) defining a cavity (V) when the sheet (10) is folded to form the measuring spoon (1). Each side wall section (5; 5 ', 5' ') are respectively connected directly to each of two adjacent sections (4, 5) in the row by means of a fold line (6), such that each handle section (4) is connected only directly to one of the outermost two side wall sections (5; 5 ') in the row, and the two outermost side wall sections (5; 5 ') between the side wall sections (5; 5 '') are each directly connected to each of the two adjacent side wall sections (5) by means of one of the fold lines (6), respectively. Each side wall section (5) preferably shares exactly two of the fold lines (6) with respective adjacent ones of the sections (4, 5) in the row, which are positioned at opposite ends of the respective side wall section (5) with respect to the direction of extension of the arc (A). The sheet (10) is designed such that, when the handle sections (4) are folded over one another to form the handle (3), the side wall sections (5) are folded about the fold line (6) to form a circumferentially closed side wall (50) of the head (2).

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a foldable measuring spoon. The foldable measuring spoon is formed by folding a pre-defined, one-piece flat sheet of material into a folded state. The measuring spoon includes a head defining a cavity for receiving food, and a handle extending from the head to support the head and receive the food in the cavity. Background Technology

[0002] A measuring spoon is a spoon used to measure the amount of ingredients (such as food). Food can be in a liquid or dry state. For example, food can be in a powdered or free-flowing state, such as milk powder used to prepare infant formula, broth or soup powder, dried herbs or spices, etc.

[0003] Measuring spoons are known to be made from many different materials. They are typically made of plastic, metal, and other similar materials. These materials are durable, but relatively heavy and take up space.

[0004] Known alternatives to plastic (which are recyclable and cause fewer environmental problems) are materials such as wood. Wood is relatively heavy, and it limits the design freedom of measuring spoons. Such measuring spoons also take up considerable space.

[0005] Furthermore, measuring spoons made of paper are known. These spoons can flatten in their unfolded state, thus taking up less space than spoons in their folded state. However, such spoons typically require a complex series of folding actions and have lower stability, thus limiting the amount of product they can carry. Moreover, once folded, the spoon needs to be continuously compressed by the user to maintain its folded shape during use—that is, the functional measuring spoon shape. If the user does not compress it properly and continuously during use, it may lead to a loss of measurement accuracy.

[0006] To increase stability, measuring spoons made of paper are typically assembled from multiple different sheet-like components, each folded and ultimately assembled through a rather complex series of folding and assembly steps. Such multi-piece measuring spoons exist, which can be selectively connected and disconnected, for example, via plug-in connections. However, such measuring spoons require multiple parts, and if one of these parts is lost, the utensil may become unusable. Summary of the Invention

[0007] Therefore, the object of the present invention is to provide a foldable measuring spoon that is relatively lightweight, saves space in the unfolded state, can be easily converted from the unfolded state to the folded (i.e., functional or operational) state, and has high accuracy when measuring the desired capacity in the folded state.

[0008] The above objectives will be achieved through the independent claims. The dependent claims advantageously further explore the central idea of ​​the invention.

[0009] According to one aspect of the invention, a foldable measuring spoon (hereinafter also referred to as a "measuring spoon" or simply a "spoon") is provided. The spoon is formed by folding a sheet of a predetermined shape into a folded state. The sheet is preferably integral, and more preferably a single-piece element. By definition, the sheet in its original (i.e., unfolded) state is flat. The spoon and its sheet (which forms the spoon from the unfolded state to the folded state) can be made of any desired material; that is, the sheet can be any material sheet.

[0010] The measuring spoon includes a head that defines a cavity with an opening for receiving food. The food can be any type of food to be measured, such as a pourable or free-flowing product in a liquid or dry (e.g., powder) state.

[0011] The measuring spoon also includes a handle that extends from the head to support the head and food; preferably, the food received in the cavity or carried by the spoon is filled in a stacked manner. The handle may include single or multiple handle segments; the latter may be directly connected, for example, by handle fold lines.

[0012] The sheet comprises a plurality of segments arranged continuously in a row. In other words, the plurality of segments are arranged one after another along the row. These segments include two handle segments located at two opposite ends of the row. These segments also include a plurality of sidewall segments arranged continuously along an arc between the two handle segments in the row to define circumferentially closed sidewalls that define cavities when the sheet is folded to form a measuring spoon. In other words, the sidewall segments are arranged one after another in the aforementioned row in a continuous arcuate arrangement.

[0013] Each sidewall segment is directly connected to each of two adjacent (i.e., adjacent) segments in the row via a fold line, such that each shank segment is directly connected to the other of the two outermost sidewall segments in the row via one of the fold lines (in other words: one of the two shank segments is directly connected to one of the two outermost sidewall segments in the row via one of the fold lines, and the other of the two shank segments is directly connected to the other of the two outermost sidewall segments in the row via another fold line); that is, two shank segments are not directly connected to each other (e.g., via fold lines), and the one or more sidewall segments arranged between the two outermost sidewall segments in the row are each directly connected to each of the two adjacent sidewall segments via one of the fold lines. Therefore, these sections are arranged continuously in the row in the following manner: starting with the handle section at one end of the row, followed by (via direct connection through fold lines) one of the outermost handle sections, then (each via direct connection through fold lines) another (i.e., intermediate) handle section, then (via direct connection through fold lines) another of the outermost handle sections, then (via direct connection through fold lines) another of the outermost handle sections, and so on. The handle sections are not directly connected to each other (e.g., via fold lines), but rather, for these sections, each handle section is directly connected only to the corresponding adjacent outermost sidewall section.

[0014] Preferably, each sidewall segment shares exactly two fold lines with its corresponding adjacent segment in the row. These two fold lines (i.e., the fold lines of each sidewall segment) are positioned on opposite sides or opposite ends of the respective sidewall segment relative to the extension or direction of the arc. Thus, each sidewall segment shares exactly two fold lines with only any other segment (i.e., in terms of the two handle segments and multiple sidewall segments). This achieves a simple yet effective design configuration that offers high flexibility in reducing the size of the sheet or spoon in its unfolded state. Consequently, the sheet has an elongated shape that, even in a flat configuration, can be easily reduced in size by simply folding the sheet along one of the fold lines, resulting in a multi-layered (e.g., double-layered) element that remains flat and is effectively reduced in size (e.g., length).

[0015] The sheet is designed (i.e., has a predetermined shape) such that when the handle section (preferably with its corresponding face pointing to the same (surface) side of the sheet) is folded to lie flat against each other (preferably with its fold lines aligned) to form the handle, the sidewall section (preferably simultaneously) is folded around the fold lines to form the circumferentially closed sidewall of the head.

[0016] Because the collapsible measuring spoon is made of a sheet (e.g., a single, flat sheet of material), the unfolded measuring spoon can be provided in a very flat (i.e., thin) manner, and therefore can be easily stored, for example, in food packaging. For instance, food can be stored in a can having: an upper sealing cover for sealing the food inside; and a removable outer lid that, together with the upper sealing cover, defines the space between the two, in which the flat, unfolded measuring spoon can be stored in a space-saving manner. Because these sections (including the handle section and the sidewall sections) are all arranged in a row and connected to each other by only one fold line, the measuring spoon can be further reduced in size from its unfolded state by simply folding the sheet along one of its fold lines (e.g., folding it to half its size), resulting in a small double-layered sheet material. Since these sections follow an arcuate shape, the overall size (particularly the length of the unfolded measuring spoon) can be further reduced. When the sheet is folded along one of the fold lines (e.g., folded to half its length), the size is reduced even further. Because the sidewall sections follow an arcuate shape in the unfolded state, the measuring spoon preferably produces a tapered head cavity in the folded state, which can be easily formed by folding, resulting in high stability in the folded state and allowing for high accuracy in measurement. Since the handle sections overlap each other flat in the folded state (preferably with their fold lines aligned), the user can easily grip the handle and, if necessary, hold a portion of the head (preferably near these fold lines) in a stable manner. Therefore, the handle of the folding measuring spoon can be provided relatively compactly but still provide sufficient support to support the head receiving food in its cavity. Additionally, the user will intuitively compress the handle sections, making it easy and secure for the handle, and thus the foldable measuring spoon, to remain folded during use.

[0017] Each fold line can extend orthogonally to the tangent of the arc at the intersection of the arc and the corresponding fold line. Therefore, the head, or at least its sidewalls, can be easily formed by folding to create a conical shape. This allows food to be easily received into the cavity, thus improving measurement accuracy. Additionally, this arrangement allows for greater stability of the folded measuring spoon's head.

[0018] Folding lines can each include creases, perforation lines, embossing lines, weakening lines (e.g., lines reducing material thickness), and / or printed lines. Therefore, folding lines can be provided as needed. Creases (such as embossing lines) allow for highly accurate transitions from an unfolded state to a folded state. Perforation lines can be readily provided, for example, when punching or laser-cutting blank sheets to produce sheets with a predetermined shape. Weakening lines can be readily provided and achieve a highly flat yet efficient foldable sheet. Lines reducing material thickness can range from 20% to 80% or 40% to 60% of the average material thickness of the sheet or foldable spoon. Printed lines can be readily provided (e.g., during printing or coating steps) and allow the folding lines to be well-visible.

[0019] The handle section may include a corresponding integrated locking section capable of being secured relative to each other (e.g., in a folded state, or even in a partially folded state) to lock the measuring spoon or at least the handle 3 (i.e., the handle sections 4 that are flatly overlapped); preferably, the measuring spoon or at least the handle is locked at least in the folded state. Therefore, regardless of any compressive force applied by the user's fingers when gripping the measuring spoon, the measuring spoon can maintain its configuration, preferably in its folded state, as needed in a highly accurate and permanent manner. This improves the ease of use of the measuring spoon, and also improves its accuracy.

[0020] One of the integrated locking sections includes a flap, and the other includes a receiving opening. When the handle sections are flatly overlapped, the flap and the receiving opening are aligned such that the flap can preferably fold around a flap fold line to pass through the receiving opening, thereby locking the measuring spoon or handle, at least in the folded state. Therefore, the integrated locking section can be provided easily and effectively. The flap can be easily pushed through the opening to allow the folded state to be permanently secured. For example, such a flap and opening can be easily provided during die-cutting processes used to manufacture sheets.

[0021] The periphery of the receiving opening may preferably define a protruding section that extends flatly into the receiving opening to define a latching section, thereby locking the flap in the receiving opening when it is folded to pass through the receiving opening. Thus, the flap can be securely fixed when it is pushed through the receiving opening, allowing the folded state to be easily and permanently secured via the integral locking section.

[0022] Each integrated locking section extends from a corresponding fold line that directly connects the corresponding handle section in that row to the adjacent outermost sidewall section. Therefore, a locking function can be provided on the handle section closest to the head, effectively holding the head and thus its cavity in a folded state, resulting in permanently high accuracy of the measuring spoon. If the locking section includes a flap, the flap can be pushed through an opening to lie flat on the outer surface of the head. Thus, when carrying the measuring spoon, the user can securely hold the flap in place, for example, by pushing it against the head. Additionally, a receiving opening allows the user's fingers to pass through during use, similarly achieving a secure grip and holding the locked flap in place.

[0023] The integrated locking section preferably shares the corresponding fold line (i.e., the wing fold line) with its extending corresponding fold line. Therefore, the number of fold lines can be reduced, and the fold lines can be provided in a compact manner. The corresponding fold line has two functions: it allows the handle section and the corresponding adjacent outermost sidewall section to be folded from the unfolded state of the sheet to the folded state in a precise manner. It is also this section that allows the wing (if present) to be easily pushed into the locking state, i.e., when the wing passes through the receiving opening.

[0024] As an alternative to or supplement to the locking section, the handle section may also be glued together when they are flatly overlapped to form the handle, thereby fixing and thus locking the foldable spoon; preferably, it is glued together at least in the folded state or even in the middle folded state.

[0025] The handle sections can all have the same shape or at least the same external contour, or even be identical. Therefore, the handle sections can easily and effectively overlap each other, thus providing maximum strength to the handle through a precise double-layered handle structure. This also allows the user to check the correct folding of the handle sections when transferring the sheet to the folded position of the measuring spoon.

[0026] The sidewall sections can all have the same shape, or even be identical. This allows for easy production of measuring spoons and preferably gives them a symmetrical design. Therefore, users can accurately check the folded state while giving the measuring spoon an attractive aesthetic appearance.

[0027] The sidewall sections can all be triangular in shape. The triangular shape of the sidewall sections allows the head and its cavity to be easily formed using only the sidewall sections, resulting in high accuracy of the head's cavity. In addition, measuring spoons with triangular sidewall sections can be easily obtained (i.e., formed) through a simple folding action, while exhibiting high shape stability in the folded state.

[0028] The sidewall sections may optionally be entirely rectangular or trapezoidal, preferably symmetrical or isosceles trapezoidal. Therefore, the measuring spoon can be easily folded to create a more box-like shape, depending on the given needs.

[0029] The sheet includes at least three, four, five, six, or eight sidewall segments. Fewer sidewall segments result in simpler folding action and greater head stability. More sidewall segments provide greater flexibility in forming an accurate head and folding a flat sheet material that has different layers in its flat state when folded along the corresponding fold line, thereby reducing dimensions in the flat plane in a desired manner.

[0030] In the folded state, all the fold lines directly connecting these sections intersect at the same point at the bottom of the head or cavity. Therefore, the measuring spoon can be designed in a simple way, with the sidewall sections preferably completely defining the cavity. This allows for a simple layout of the measuring spoon or a corresponding sheet of a predetermined shape, while providing high rigidity to the head and thus the measuring spoon as a whole in the folded state.

[0031] The sheet may also include a bottom section that is directly connected to one of the sidewall sections via a bottom fold line located on the side of the corresponding sidewall section away from the arc and towards the center of the arc. Therefore, the bottom section can be readily provided, and in the folded state, it can be easily bent around the corresponding bottom fold line to close the bottom of the head. The bottom section is preferably designed such that, in the folded state of the measuring spoon, the bottom section is folded to cover the bottom of the head opposite the opening, thereby defining a cavity together with the sidewalls (sections). Thus, a simple and effective way is provided to cover the bottom section of the cavity as needed to accurately define the cavity in the folded state.

[0032] The bottom section may include a locking extension, and one of the other sidewall sections may include a receiving section to engage the locking extension in the folded state, thereby locking the bottom section. Therefore, the bottom section can be easily and effectively held in place during use of the measuring spoon, thus improving ease of use.

[0033] The perimeter of the defined opening in the sidewall can extend in a plane. This allows for easy leveling of the food received in the cavity, resulting in high accuracy of the food cavity.

[0034] The measuring spoon or sheet may be made of a cellulose-based material. The cellulose-based material may include a cellulose fiber content of greater than 70%, or greater than 75%, or greater than 80%, or greater than 85%, or greater than 90%, or greater than 95%. Preferably, the measuring spoon or sheet is made of paper or cardboard, as needed. The sheet may have a thickness in the range of 150 micrometers to 600 micrometers, or in the range of 250 micrometers to 550 micrometers, or in the range of 350 micrometers to 500 micrometers, or about 450 micrometers. The sheet may include a thickness of 100 g / m². 2 Up to 600g / m 2 Within the range, or at 200g / m 2 Up to 550g / m 2 Within the range, or at 300g / m 2 Up to 500g / m 2 Within the range, or approximately 400g / m 2 The weight per unit area. However, the present invention is not limited to a given thickness range, nor to a given range of sheet material weights.

[0035] Sheets of a predetermined shape can be made by die-cutting from blank material sheets (such as blank sheets of paper or blank sheets of cardboard).

[0036] The sheet (preferably, the most unfolded sheet) measured in the extended plane has a maximum extension of less than 100 mm, or less than 50 mm, or less than 40 mm, or less than 30 mm (in the unfolded state). This maximum extension can also be obtained in the middle of the sheet folded flat, and is therefore preferably obtained in the multi-layered flat state of the sheet.

[0037] The volume of the head is preferably in the range of 2ml to 100ml, more preferably in the range of 5ml to 50ml, and even more preferably in the range of 7ml to 20ml. Attached Figure Description

[0038] Further features, advantages, and objects of the invention will become apparent to those skilled in the art when the following detailed description of embodiments of the invention is read in conjunction with the accompanying drawings.

[0039] Even if numbers are omitted from the diagram for clarity, the corresponding features may still exist in the diagram.

[0040] Figure 1 A top view of a sheet of predetermined shape (here, a one-piece flat material sheet) (i.e., a foldable measuring spoon according to a first embodiment of the invention in an unfolded state) is shown, the sheet to be folded to form a foldable measuring spoon according to a first embodiment of the invention;

[0041] Figure 2A perspective view of a foldable measuring spoon according to a first embodiment of the present invention in a folded state is shown;

[0042] Figure 3 Different operating states are shown. Figure 2 A 3D image of a foldable measuring spoon is shown below:

[0043] Figure 3 A is in its unfolded state, which shows... Figure 1 The unfolded sheet,

[0044] Figure 3 B. First half-folded state (i.e., first intermediate folded state), in which the handle section is slightly folded.

[0045] Figure 3 C. Second half-fold state (i.e., second intermediate fold state), in which the stem sections are folded toward each other.

[0046] Figure 3 The D-folded state is therefore a possible operating state, in which the handle sections are folded so that they overlap flat against each other (their fold lines are aligned) to form the handle, and the sidewall sections form circumferentially closed sidewalls, thus forming the head of the foldable measuring spoon.

[0047] Figure 3 E is in its final folded state, and therefore in the operational state, where the integrated locking section is locked.

[0048] Figure 4 A top view of another sheet of predetermined shape (here, a one-piece flat material sheet) (i.e., a foldable measuring spoon according to a second embodiment of the invention in an unfolded state) is shown, which is to be folded to form a foldable measuring spoon according to a second embodiment of the invention;

[0049] Figure 5 A perspective view of a foldable measuring spoon according to a second embodiment of the present invention in a folded state is shown;

[0050] Figure 6 Different operating states are shown. Figure 5 3D image of a foldable measuring spoon:

[0051] Figure 6 In the first half-folded state (i.e., the first intermediate folded state), the handle sections are folded so that they overlap flat against each other (their fold lines are aligned) to form a handle, and one half of the sidewall sections lies flat on top of the other half of the sidewall sections, such that the sheet is folded in half, thereby producing a double-layered flat material sheet, and wherein the integral locking section is locked.

[0052] Figure 6B. Second semi-folded state (i.e., second intermediate folded state), wherein the sidewall sections are folded to expand the cavity of the head, and

[0053] Figure 6 C represents the folded state of the measuring spoon, indicating its operational state.

[0054] Figure 7 A top view of another sheet of predetermined shape (here, a one-piece flat material sheet) (i.e., a foldable measuring spoon according to a third embodiment of the invention in an unfolded state) is shown, which is to be folded to form a foldable measuring spoon according to a third embodiment of the invention;

[0055] Figure 8 A perspective view of a foldable measuring spoon according to a third embodiment of the present invention in a folded state is shown; and

[0056] Figure 9 Different operating states are shown. Figure 8 3D image of a foldable measuring spoon:

[0057] Figure 9 In a first half-folded state (i.e., a first intermediate folded state), the handle sections are folded so that they overlap flat against each other (their fold lines aligned) to form a handle, and half of the sidewall sections lie flat on top of the other half of the sidewall sections, such that the sheet is folded in half, with the bottom section folded inward to lie between the two outermost sidewall sections, thereby producing a thin, layered, flat sheet of material, and wherein the integral locking section is locked.

[0058] Figure 9 B. Second semi-folded state (i.e., second intermediate folded state), in which the sidewall sections are folded to expand the cavity and form a box-shaped head.

[0059] Figure 9 C. The third (semi-folded) state (i.e., the third (intermediate) folded state), in which the bottom section is folded to cover the bottom of the head opposite the opening, thereby defining and defining the cavity together with the sidewalls, and

[0060] Figure 9 The D measuring spoon is in its folded state, which is the operating state of the measuring spoon. At this time, the locking extension of the bottom section is locked by the receiving section to lock the bottom in the folded state. Detailed Implementation

[0061] The accompanying drawings show different views of different embodiments of the collapsible measuring spoon 1 according to the present invention.

[0062] Foldable measuring spoon 1 is to be shaped according to a predetermined plan (see Figure 1 , Figure 3A, Figure 4 and Figure 7 The sheet 10 (preferably a one-piece flat material sheet) is folded into a folded state (see...). Figure 2 , Figure 3 E, Figure 5 , Figure 6 C Figure 8 and Figure 9 D) is formed. The sheet 10 of a predetermined shape can be made by die-cutting from a blank material sheet.

[0063] The measuring spoon 1 (and therefore the sheet 10) can be made of any desired material, preferably a cellulose-based material. Preferably, the measuring spoon 1 (and therefore the sheet 10) can be made of paper or cardboard. The preferred cellulose-based material may have a cellulose fiber content greater than 70%, or greater than 75%, or greater than 80%, or greater than 85%, or greater than 90%, or greater than 95%. The sheet 10 may have a thickness in the range of 150 micrometers to 600 micrometers, or in the range of 250 micrometers to 550 micrometers, or in the range of 350 micrometers to 500 micrometers, or about 450 micrometers. The sheet 10 may contain a thickness of 100 g / m². 2 Up to 600g / m 2 Within the range, or at 200g / m 2 Up to 550g / m 2 Within the range, or at 300g / m 2 Up to 500g / m 2 Within the range, or approximately 400g / m 2 The weight is specified. However, the invention is not limited to these scopes. The measuring spoon 1 may also be made of any other suitable material, such as plastic. The measuring spoon 1 may be made of a multilayer material sheet (e.g., comprising a cellulose base layer and at least one or more oxygen and / or moisture barrier layers). The measuring spoon may also include printing or embossing, for example, to provide instructions for use or folding.

[0064] The measuring spoon 1 includes a head 2 that defines a cavity V having an opening 20 for receiving food (see, for example, see...). Figure 2 , Figure 5 and Figure 8 The volume V can range from 2 ml to 100 ml, preferably from 5 ml to 50 ml, and more preferably from 7 ml to 20 ml.

[0065] The measuring spoon 1 also includes a handle 3 that extends from the head 2 to carry the head 2 and the food, i.e., to receive food in or carried by the head 2 in the cavity V, for example, when the spoon is full.

[0066] like Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 7As exemplarily depicted, sheet 10 includes a plurality of segments 4, 5 arranged side by side in a (single) row.

[0067] Sections 4 and 5 include two handle sections 4 located at two opposite ends of the row, such as Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 7 As clearly shown in the text.

[0068] The handle sections 4 may all have the same shape or at least the same external contour, or even be identical, such as... Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 7 As exemplarily shown in the example.

[0069] Sections 4 and 5 also include multiple sidewall sections 5. In the first embodiment, sheet 10 includes three sidewall sections 5 (see...). Figure 1 In the second embodiment, sheet 10 includes six sidewall segments 5 (see...). Figure 4 In the third embodiment, sheet 10 includes four sidewall segments 5 (see...). Figure 7 Preferably, the sheet 10 may include at least three, four, five, six, or eight sidewall segments 5.

[0070] The sidewall segments 5 may all have the same shape, or even be identical. Referring to the first two embodiments, the sidewall segments 5 may all have a triangular shape. Referring to the third embodiment, the sidewall segments 5 may also all have a rectangular shape, or, as shown, a trapezoidal shape; preferably, they may have a symmetrical trapezoidal shape or an isosceles trapezoidal shape.

[0071] Multiple sidewall segments 5 are continuously arranged along arc A between two handle segments 4 in this row to define a circumferentially closed sidewall 50, which defines a cavity V when the sheet 10 is folded to form a measuring spoon 1. For illustrative purposes only, arc A is... Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 7 The middle section is shown as a solid line. Arc A is not typically set as a visible line on sheet 10 or measuring spoon 1, but (in the figure shown) the sidewall section 5 should be simply visualized as an arc continuous arrangement in / along the row.

[0072] Each sidewall segment in sidewall segment 5 is directly connected to each of the two adjacent segments 4 and 5 in the row via fold line 6, such that each handle segment 4 is directly connected to only one of the two outermost sidewall segments 5 in the row via one of the fold lines 6 (the outermost sidewall segment is also indicated by reference numeral 5'). (In other words: one of the two handle segments 4 is directly connected to only one of the two outermost sidewall segments 5 (5') in the row via one of the fold lines 6, and the two handle segments...) Another handle section in segment 4 is directly connected to another sidewall section in the two outermost sidewall sections 5 (5') of the row via another fold line in fold line 6; that is, the two handle sections 4 are not directly connected to each other (e.g., via fold line 6), and one or more sidewall sections 5 (this / these intermediate sidewall sections are also indicated by reference numeral 5'') arranged between the two outermost sidewall sections 5 (5') in the row are each directly connected to each of the two adjacent sidewall sections 5 via a fold line in fold line 6, such as Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 7 As exemplarily shown in the example.

[0073] The fold line 6 is preferably arranged on the opposite side of the corresponding sidewall segment 5 relative to the extension direction of the arc A.

[0074] like Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 7 As exemplarily shown, each fold line 6 may extend orthogonally to the tangent T of the arc A at the intersection point P of the arc A and the corresponding fold line 6.

[0075] The fold lines 6 may each include creases, perforation lines, embossing lines, weakening lines, and / or printing lines, etc.

[0076] Each sidewall segment in sidewall segment 5 may share exactly two fold lines in fold lines 6 with the corresponding adjacent segments in segments 4 and 5 in the same row. These two fold lines 6 are located at the opposite ends of the corresponding sidewall segment 5 relative to the extension direction of arc A.

[0077] Sheet 10 is designed such that when the handle section 4 (preferably its corresponding surface 40 points to the same (surface) side of sheet 10) is folded to lie flat against each other (preferably its fold lines 6 are aligned) to form handle 3 (e.g., see...). Figure 3 A to Figure 3 D、 Figure 6 The state in A and Figure 9 In states A and 9B, the sidewall segment 5 (preferably simultaneously) folds around the corresponding fold line 6 to form a circumferentially closed sidewall 50 of the head 2, thereby circumferentially defining the cavity V, as shown below. Figure 2 , Figure 3 D、 Figure 3 E, Figure 5 , Figure 6 C Figure 8 and Figure 9 D is shown as an example.

[0078] The handle section 4 may include corresponding integrated locking sections 7 and 8, which are capable of being secured relative to each other, at least in the folded state (e.g., Figure 2 , Figure 3 E, Figure 5 , Figure 6 C Figure 8 and Figure 9 (as exemplarily shown in D) and preferably also in at least some states from the intermediate folded state to the folded state (such as...) Figure 6 A to Figure 6 B and Figure 9 A to Figure 9 (Example shown) Locking spoon 1 (or at least handle 3).

[0079] As an alternative to or supplement to locking sections 7 and 8, handle section 4 may also be glued together when they are flatly overlapped to form handle 3, thereby fixing and thus locking the foldable spoon 1; preferably at least in the folded state (e.g. Figure 2 , Figure 3 D、 Figure 3 E, Figure 5 , Figure 6 C Figure 8 and Figure 9 D is exemplarily shown, or even in the intermediate folded state (as shown in the example). Figure 6 A to Figure 6 B and Figure 9 A to Figure 9 (As shown in example C) are glued together.

[0080] One of the integrated locking sections may include a flap 7, and the other integrated locking section may include a receiving opening 8. When the handle sections 4 are flatly overlapped, the flap 7 and the receiving opening 8 can be aligned such that the flap 7 can preferably fold around the flap fold line 76 to pass through the receiving opening 8, thereby locking the measuring spoon 1 (or at least the handle 3) at least in the folded state. This is in Figure 2 , Figure 3 E, Figure 5 , Figure 6 C Figure 8 and Figure 9 As exemplarily shown in D.

[0081] Parameter 80 of the receiving opening 8 may define a protruding section 88 that extends flatly into the receiving opening 8 to define a latching section 87, thereby locking the flap 7 in the receiving opening 8 when it is folded to pass through the receiving opening 8, as in Figure 2 , Figure 6 C and Figure 8 The best view is in the middle.

[0082] Each integrated locking section 7, 8 may extend from a corresponding fold line 6, which directly connects the corresponding handle section 4 in that row to the adjacent outermost sidewall section 5. Preferably, the corresponding fold lines 6 share the wing fold line 76, and therefore the two may preferably be identical.

[0083] In the folded state, all fold lines 6 directly connecting segments 4 and 5 intersect at the same point X at the head 2 or the bottom 21 of the cavity V. This is in Figure 1 , Figure 4 and Figure 7 The measuring spoon 1 shown in the middle is best visible when the sheet 10 is unfolded.

[0084] In such Figure 2 and Figure 5 In some embodiments exemplarily shown, the circumferentially closed sidewalls 50 enclose the entire head 2 except for the opening 20, and thus also close the bottom 21 of the head 2. Embodiments in which the sidewalls 50 do not close or do not completely close the bottom 21 may also exist. In this case, if the measuring spoon 1 is intended to measure suitable food (e.g., coarse-grained food), the bottom 21 can remain open. In these cases, the food may be of a size that will not fall through the opening at the bottom 21 during the measuring action. In other cases (e.g.) Figure 7 and Figure 8 As exemplarily shown in the diagram, sheet 10 may further include a bottom section 9. The bottom section 9 may be directly connected to one of the sidewall sections 5 via a bottom fold line 96 located on the side of the respective sidewall section 5 away from the arc A and towards the center C of the arc A, as shown in the diagram. Figure 7 The bottom section 9 is preferably designed such that, in the folded state of the measuring spoon 1, the bottom section 9 is preferably folded to cover the bottom 21 of the head 2 opposite the opening 20, thereby defining or defining the cavity V together with the sidewall 50. This is in Figure 8 and Figure 9 Best visible in D.

[0085] The bottom section 9 may include a locking extension 90, and one of the other side wall sections 5 may include a corresponding receiving section 59 to engage the locking extension 90 in the folded state, thereby locking the bottom section 9, as can be seen from... Figure 9 C and Figure 9The combination of D is exemplarily derived and also as follows Figure 8 As shown.

[0086] As in Figure 2 , Figure 5 and Figure 8 Specifically, the periphery 52 of the defined opening 20 of the sidewall 50 can extend in a plane to allow for precise leveling of the food received in the cavity V.

[0087] Figure 3 , Figure 6 and Figure 9 Some or all of the folding steps are shown to form the measuring spoon 1 according to the invention from the sheet 10 (i.e., from the unfolded state) by folding it into a folded state (i.e., a functional state or an operational state).

[0088] exist Figure 3 In one embodiment, the sheet 10 includes three sidewall segments 5, namely two outermost sidewall segments 5' and one middle sidewall segment 5''. Figure 3 In A, sheet 10 is provided in its original flat configuration; thus, a measuring spoon 1 in an unfolded state is shown. The sidewall sections 5 are triangular in shape and are all identical. Figure 3 In A, sheet 10 is provided in its original flat configuration; thus, a measuring spoon 1 in an unfolded state is shown. Figure 3 In section B, the stem section 4 is slightly folded around the corresponding fold line 6, which directly connects the corresponding stem section 4 and the adjacent outermost sidewall section 5'. Figure 3 In section C, the handle sections 4 are further folded toward each other, so that they eventually lie flat against each other (at this point, their corresponding surfaces 40 point to the same side of the sheet 10) to form the handle 3, as shown. Figure 3 As shown in D. In the folded state, the fold line 6 of the handle section 4 is aligned, as shown in... Figure 3 D is best visible. During the folding action, the corresponding segments 4 and 5 (including sidewall segments 5) are all folded around their respective fold lines 6, such that the sidewall segments form circumferentially closed sidewalls 50 of the head 2. In the illustrated embodiment, at least in the folded state, and also in the unfolded state, the fold lines 6 intersect at the same point X at the bottom 21 of the head 2 or cavity V. In this embodiment, except for the opening 20, the cavity V of the head 2 is completely defined (i.e., covered or closed) by the sidewall segments 5. In the final step, as Figure 3 D and Figure 3 As shown in the combination of E, the wing 7 folds around the wing fold line 76 to pass through the receiving opening 8, thereby locking the measuring spoon 1 in the folded state (see Figure 3 E). Here, the wing 7 is preferably locked in the receiving opening 8 by the latching section 87. Alternatively (or additionally), the two handle sections 4 may also be... Figure 3The folded structure of D is glued together to fix or lock the folded state of measuring spoon 1.

[0089] exist Figure 4 and Figure 6 In one embodiment, sheet 10 includes six sidewall segments 5, namely two outermost sidewall segments 5' and four intermediate sidewall segments 5''. Figure 4 In the image, sheet 10 is provided in its original flat configuration; thus, a measuring spoon 1 in an unfolded state is shown. The sidewall sections 5 are triangular in shape and are all identical. Figure 6 In section A, the handle section 4 is folded; here, it is folded around fold line 6, which directly connects two adjacent intermediate sidewall sections 5''. Figure 6 In this intermediate folded state, the handle section 4 is folded flat against each other (at this time, its corresponding face 40 points to the same side of the sheet 10) to form the handle 3. During the folding action, the sidewall sections 5 are folded relative to each other, so that they form the circumferentially closed sidewalls 50 of the head 2; however, they are formed in a flat manner. In this intermediate folded configuration, half of the sidewall sections 5 lie flat on the other half of the sidewall sections 5, so that the sheet 10 is folded in half, thereby producing a double-layered flat material sheet. In this configuration, which has a reduced size compared to the unfolded state of the sheet 10, the measuring spoon 1 can be easily and space-savingly placed in the food container. In this state, the integrated locking sections 7 and 8 may have been locked, such as Figure 6 As indicated by A. Specifically, here, the fin 7 is folded around the fin fold line 76 to pass through the receiving opening 8, thereby locking the measuring spoon 1; here, in particular, at least the handle 3 is locked. Here, the fin 7 is preferably locked in the receiving opening 8 by the latching section 87. Alternatively (or additionally), both handle sections 4 may also be... Figure 6 In the folded configuration of A (i.e., the handle sections 4 are flatly overlapped), they are glued together to secure / lock the handle 3. As... Figure 6 As exemplarily shown in the subsequent folding steps of B, the sidewall segments 5 are further folded to expand the cavity V of the head 2, thereby producing the final folded state. Figure 6 A and Figure 6 The intermediate folding state shown in B and Figure 6 In the (final) folded state of C, the fold line 6 of the handle section 4 is aligned, as in Figure 6 C is best visible. In the illustrated embodiment, at least in the folded state and in the unfolded state, the fold line 6 intersects at the same point X at the bottom 21 of the head 2 or cavity V. In this embodiment, the cavity V of the head 2 is completely defined (i.e., covered or closed) by the sidewall segment 5, except for the opening 20.

[0090] exist Figure 7and Figure 9 In one embodiment, the sheet 10 includes four sidewall segments 5, namely two outermost sidewall segments 5' and two intermediate sidewall segments 5''. Figure 7 In the middle, sheet 10 is provided in its original flat configuration; thus, a measuring spoon 1 in an unfolded state is shown. The side wall section 5 has a symmetrical isosceles trapezoidal shape. Figure 7 The three sidewall sections 5 on the left side are all identical. Sheet 10 also includes a bottom section 9, which is directly connected to the rightmost sidewall section 5 via a bottom fold line 96 located on the side of the corresponding sidewall section 5 away from the center C of arc A. Figure 9 In section A, the handle section 4 is folded; here, it is folded around fold line 6, which directly connects two adjacent intermediate sidewall sections 5''. Figure 9 In this intermediate folded state, the handle section 4 is folded flat against each other (at this time, its corresponding face 40 points to the same side of the sheet 10) to form the handle 3. During the folding action, the sidewall sections 5 are folded relative to each other, so that they form the circumferentially closed sidewalls 50 of the head 2; however, they are formed in a flat manner. In this intermediate folded configuration, half of the sidewall sections 5 lie flat on the other half of the sidewall sections 5. Additionally, here, the bottom section 9 is preferably folded inward to lie flat between the two outermost sidewall sections 5'. Thus, the sheet 10 is folded in half, with the bottom section 9 folded inward, thereby producing a thin, layered, flat sheet of material. In this configuration, which has a reduced size compared to the unfolded state of the sheet 10, the measuring spoon 1 can be easily placed in a food container in a space-saving manner. In this state, the integrated locking sections 7, 8 may have been locked, as Figure 9 As indicated by A. Specifically, here, the fin 7 is folded around the fin fold line 76 to pass through the receiving opening 8, thereby locking the measuring spoon 1; here, in particular, at least the handle 3 is locked. Here, the fin 7 is preferably locked in the receiving opening 8 by the latching section 87. Alternatively (or additionally), both handle sections 4 may also be... Figure 9 In the folded configuration of A (i.e., the handle sections 4 are flatly overlapped), they are glued together to secure / lock the handle 3. As... Figure 9 As exemplarily shown in the subsequent folding steps of B, the sidewall segments 5 are further folded to expand the cavity V of the head 2; here, this exemplarily creates a box-like shape for the sidewalls 50 or the head 2. (As can be seen from...) Figure 9 C and Figure 9 Derived from the combination of D, the bottom section 9 is folded to cover the bottom 21 of the head 2 opposite the opening 20, thereby defining and defining the cavity V together with the sidewall 50. Here, in such a way... Figure 9In the final folded state indicated by D, the locking extension 90 of the bottom section 9 is engaged by the receiving section 59 of another sidewall section 5 (here, sidewall section 5 is opposite to the sidewall section 5 extending from the bottom section 9 relative to the sidewall 50) to lock the bottom section 9. Figure 9 The intermediate folding states shown in A to 9C and Figure 9 In the final folded state of D, the fold line 6 of the handle section 4 is aligned, as shown in... Figure 9 Best visible in D.

[0091] The invention is not limited to the embodiments described above, as covered by the appended claims. All features of the embodiments described above may be combined in any possible manner and are provided interchangeably.

Claims

1. A foldable measuring spoon (1), the foldable measuring spoon being formed by folding a sheet (10) of a predetermined shape into a folded state, wherein the measuring spoon (1) comprises: • Head (2), the head defining a cavity (V) having an opening (20) for receiving food, and • Handle (3), the handle extending from the head (2) to carry the head (2) and the food, The sheet (10) comprises a plurality of segments (4, 5) arranged in a continuous row, the segments (4, 5) comprising: • Two handle sections (4), said two handle sections are arranged at two opposite ends of the row, and • Multiple sidewall segments (5; 5', 5'') are arranged continuously along an arc (A) between the two handle segments (4) in the row to define a circumferentially closed sidewall (50) that defines the cavity (V) when the sheet (10) is folded to form the measuring spoon (1). Each sidewall segment (5; 5', 5'') is directly connected to each of the two adjacent segments (4, 5) in the row via a fold line (6), such that: • One of the handle sections (4) is directly connected to one of the two outermost sidewall sections (5; 5') of the row via one of the fold lines (6), and the other handle section (4) is directly connected to the other of the two outermost sidewall sections (5; 5') of the row via another fold line (6), and • One or more sidewall segments (5; 5'') arranged between the two outermost sidewall segments (5; 5'') in the row are each directly connected to each of the two adjacent sidewall segments (5) by one of the fold lines (6). Each sidewall segment (5) shares exactly two fold lines in the fold lines (6) with the corresponding adjacent segment in the segment (4, 5) of the row. The two fold lines are positioned at opposite ends of the corresponding sidewall segment (5) relative to the extension direction of the arc (A), and The sheet (10) is designed such that when the handle section (4) is folded to lie flat against each other to form the handle (3), the sidewall section (5) is folded around the fold line (6) to form the circumferentially closed sidewall (50) of the head (2).

2. The foldable measuring spoon (1) according to claim 1, wherein the sheet (10) is designed such that when the handle section (4) is folded to lie flat against each other with its respective face (40) pointing to the same side of the sheet (10), preferably with its fold lines (6) aligned to form the handle (3), the sidewall section (5) is folded around the fold lines (6) to form the circumferentially closed sidewall (50) of the head (2).

3. The collapsible measuring spoon (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each fold line (6) extends orthogonally to the tangent (T) of the arc (A) at the intersection (P) of the arc (A) and the corresponding fold line (6).

4. The collapsible measuring spoon (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each fold line (6) includes a crease, a perforation line, an embossing line, a weakening line and / or a printed line.

5. The foldable measuring spoon (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the handle section (4) includes a corresponding integral locking section (7, 8) which is capable of being fixed relative to each other to lock the measuring spoon (1) or the handle (3) at least in the folded state.

6. The collapsible measuring spoon (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein one of the integral locking sections (7, 8) includes a flap (7), and the other integral locking section (7, 8) includes a receiving opening (8), wherein when the handle sections (4) are flatly overlapped, the flap and the receiving opening are aligned such that the flap (7) can be folded, preferably around a flap folding line (76), to pass through the receiving opening (8), thereby locking the measuring spoon (1) or the handle (3) at least in the folded state.

7. The collapsible measuring spoon (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the periphery (80) of the receiving opening (8) defines a protruding section (88) that extends flatly into the receiving opening (8) to define a latching section (87) thereby locking the flap (7) in the receiving opening (8) when the flap (7) is folded to pass through the receiving opening (8).

8. The collapsible measuring spoon (1) according to any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein each integral locking section (7, 8) extends from a corresponding fold line (6) that directly connects the corresponding handle section (4) in the row to the adjacent outermost sidewall section (5). Preferably, the corresponding folding line (6) shares the wing folding line (76).

9. The collapsible measuring spoon (1) according to any one of the preceding claims. The handle sections (4) therein all have the same shape or at least the same external profile, or are identical, and / or The sidewall sections (5) therein all have the same shape or are identical.

10. The collapsible measuring spoon (1) according to any one of the preceding claims. The sidewall sections (5) therein are all triangular, rectangular, or trapezoidal in shape, preferably symmetrical or isosceles trapezoidal, and / or The sheet (10) therein includes at least three, four, five, six or eight sidewall segments (5).

11. The collapsible measuring spoon (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein in the collapsible state, all the fold lines (6) directly connecting the segments (4, 5) intersect at the same point (X) at the bottom (21) of the head (2) or the cavity (V).

12. The collapsible measuring spoon (1) according to claims 1 to 10, wherein the sheet (10) further comprises a bottom section (9) which is directly connected to one of the sidewall sections (5) by a bottom fold line (96) located on the side of the respective sidewall section (5) away from the arc (A) toward the center (C) of the arc (A), wherein the bottom section (9) is designed such that, in the folded state of the measuring spoon (1), the bottom section (9) is folded to cover the bottom (21) of the head (2) opposite the opening (20), thereby defining the cavity (V) together with the sidewall (50).

13. The collapsible measuring spoon (1) according to the preceding claim, wherein the bottom section (9) includes a locking extension (90), and one of the other side wall sections (5) includes a receiving section (59) to engage the locking extension (90) in the folded state, thereby locking the bottom section (9).

14. The collapsible measuring spoon (1) according to any of the preceding claims, wherein the periphery (52) defining the opening (20) of the sidewall (50) extends in a plane.

15. The collapsible measuring spoon (1) according to any one of the preceding claims. The measuring spoon (1) or the sheet (10) is made of a cellulose-based material, preferably of paper or cardboard, and / or The sheet (10) of the predetermined shape is made by die-cutting from a blank sheet.

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