Packaging container and device for producing packaging container

Abstract

The utility model relates to a packaging container and an apparatus for manufacturing a packaging container. Flexible and resilient packaging containers have components that are assembled and secured solely by their shape to eliminate clamping operations, adhesion or cohesion steps or the need for rigid or malleable materials such as metal. The container body provides a container wall defining a container space. An end insert formed to terminate the container space terminates the container space. The container body has a portion arranged in a roll that initially travels inward towards a central axis of the container space and then towards the second end or the container space away from the first end. The end insert has a curled portion arranged as a roll within the roll of the container wall such that the end insert is attached by the shape of the sheet material, formed as a roll and the container remains flexible and elastic.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to improvements relating to packaging containers, such as tube packaging, methods of making packaging containers, and the use of equipment for making packaging containers. Background Art

[0002] An example of conventional packaging provides a container defined by a wall that generally terminates near the base of the container by a disc-shaped element of material across the interior of the wall. This type of container is used to package a stack of articles contained within the wall and supported by the material across the interior of the wall.

[0003] Typically, packaging of this type is manufactured by providing a walled container, positioning a disc-shaped element across the interior of the wall, and providing a drop of glue at the junction between the element and the wall to secure the element in place.

[0004] The different steps involved in the manufacture of this type of packaging are known to the reader to be labour intensive and time consuming.

[0005] As the reader knows, the use of glue beads to attach a disc-shaped element to a container wall presents various limitations and technical problems.

[0006] It would therefore be beneficial to improve the packaging and / or manufacturing processes of these products, which could address any or all of the above issues, or at least provide the public with an alternative choice. Utility Model Content

[0007] In one aspect, the present invention provides a packaging container formed from one or more sheets of flexible elastic material, the packaging container comprising:

[0008] a container body formed from a sheet of flexible elastic material and providing a container wall defining the container space; and

[0009] an end insert formed from a piece of flexible, resilient material, the end insert having a first portion capable of terminating the container space, and the end insert having a second portion capable of positioning the first portion to terminate the first end of the container space;

[0010] wherein the container body has a curled portion arranged as a curl that initially travels inwardly toward a central axis of the container space and then travels toward a second end or the container space away from the first end,

[0011] wherein the end insert has a curled portion arranged as a roll that initially travels inwardly toward a central axis of the container space and then travels toward a second end or the container space away from the first end, and wherein the roll of the second portion of the end insert is arranged within the roll of the container wall portion.

[0012] The curled portion of the end insert, which may be formed from a flexible, resilient material, is attached to the container body via a curled portion of the container wall portion, also formed from a flexible, resilient material.

[0013] The curled portion of the container body and the curled portion of the second portion of the end insert may proceed further outwardly towards the container wall.

[0014] The curled portion of the container body and the curled portion of the second portion of the end insert may run further back towards the first end of the container space.

[0015] The curled portion of the container body and the second portion of the end insert may be curled at an angle exceeding 180 degrees from the container wall.

[0016] The curled portion of the container body and the second portion of the end insert may be curled at an angle exceeding 270 degrees from the container wall.

[0017] The container wall portion and the second portion of the end portion may be curled over an angle exceeding 360 degrees from the container wall.

[0018] The first portion of the end insert may be a support element shaped to support one or more items in the container space.

[0019] The first portion of the end insert may be adapted to deform to provide motion damping for one or more items in the container. Such adaptation may be a first portion having a shape that deforms to the sheet material of the end insert to dissipate energy.

[0020] The first portion of the end insert may be adapted to deform so as to provide a reaction force to resist a force applied to the end insert by one or more items in the container.

[0021] The first portion of the end insert may be adapted to deform to provide a reaction force against a force applied to the end insert by one or more items in the container, the reaction force being selected to resist movement of the items moving against the end insert.

[0022] The first portion of the end insert is adapted to deform to provide a reaction force to resist a force applied to the end insert by one or more articles in the container, the reaction force being selected to resist movement of the articles moving against the end insert.

[0023] The movement may be movement caused by one or more items being placed into the container space.

[0024] This movement is caused by vibration of the item during transportation.

[0025] The end insert may be adapted to provide dampening of movement and / or vibration of one or more items in the container space.

[0026] The container package has a container space which can be terminated with an end insert connected to a container body.

[0027] The container package has a container space that can be terminated with an end insert that is connected to the container body and also provides suspension for the items in the container space. Here, "suspension" is biasing and / or shock absorbing capabilities. Impact absorption can be attenuated. In one example, the suspension can prevent the moving items from applying force to the substrate on which the container rests to prevent damage to the items, such as bruising of fruit.

[0028] Another aspect of the present invention provides an apparatus for manufacturing a packaging container, the apparatus comprising:

[0029] a mandrel capable of mounting a container wall portion formed of a flexible elastic sheet, the container wall portion providing a container wall defining a container space; and

[0030] a support member located on the mandrel for a container end formed from a piece of flexible elastic material, the end portion having a first portion capable of terminating the container space and having a second portion arranged as a wall that is insertable into the container wall proximate the first end of the container space when on the support member, wherein the support member is arranged to position the end portion in the container wall at the first end of the container space to terminate the container space;

[0031] A tool is provided which is capable of curling the container wall at a first end of the container space and curling a second portion of the terminal portion to be arranged within a roll defined by the curled portion of the container wall portion.

[0032] The tool may define a cavity having an end against which the container wall abuts at a first end of the container space, and a second portion of the terminal portion to curl them.

[0033] The tool may define a tapered cavity.

[0034] The apparatus may include an actuator operable to move the spindle relative to the tool.

[0035] A packaging container, comprising:

[0036] a container wall arranged to define a prismatic container space for one or more items;

[0037] a support element arranged to support an item in the container space adjacent an end of the container wall;

[0038] The support element is arranged to deform under a force from one or more items.

[0039] The packaging container may include any of the features in any of the above paragraphs.

[0040] The support element may be arranged to support one or more items and to deform under static forces from the one or more items.

[0041] The support element may be arranged to support one or more items and to deform under the weight of the one or more items.

[0042] The support element may be arranged to support one or more items and to deform under a force having a force component caused by the momentum of the one or more items.

[0043] The force may be characterized by the vibration of one or more items.

[0044] Momentum may be characterized by one or more items loaded into the container space.

[0045] Momentum may be characterized by one or more items placed into the container space.

[0046] The support element may be arranged to deform under dynamic loads expected during loading of an article into the container space by dropping the article onto the support surface.

[0047] The support element is arranged to deform under dynamic loads expected during transport of the container with the contents.

[0048] The support element is arranged to provide impact under deformation to resist movement of the article causing dynamic loads to prevent impact of the support element under deformation and the surface supporting the container wall.

[0049] The support element may include one or more support features capable of supporting against a surface against which the packaging container is supported to prevent movement of the one or more items.

[0050] The support element is shaped and positioned to terminate the container space at one end.

[0051] The supporting element has a shape which is convex relative to the container space.

[0052] The support element may be the first portion of the end insert in any of the above paragraphs.

[0053] The support element may be arranged to deform so as to maintain contact with the one or more articles within a range of deformation of the support element caused by the one or more articles.

[0054] The range of deformation may be approximately 0.5 cm.

[0055] The range of this movement may be approximately 1 cm.

[0056] The range of this deformation is about 2 cm.

[0057] The range of this movement may be in the range of 1 cm to 2 cm.

[0058] The convex shape may be an oval.

[0059] The convex shape may have a different profile in each of two perpendicular axes, each axis being perpendicular to a central axis of a prismatic container space defined by the container body.

[0060] The support element may be arranged to deform with a first strain modulus for smaller deformations and with a second deformation modulus for larger deformations, wherein the second modulus is higher than the first modulus.

[0061] The support elements may be arranged to provide damping for the moving object.

[0062] The end of the support element can be configured as a first part of an end insert, the first part of which is attached to a wall of one end of a container body section of the tube wall adjacent to the container area, the section of the container wall being arranged in a roll that travels back in a first roll toward an end of the container space away from the terminal end, and wherein a second part of the end insert is arranged in a second roll that is arranged within the first roll to attach the end insert to the container wall.

[0063] The first roll may initially extend inwardly towards the container space.

[0064] The second portion of the end insert may define a prism having a cross-section complementary to a cross-section of a prismatic container region defined by walls provided by the container body for the second portion of the end insert to be received within the prismatic container region.

[0065] The element may be formed from one piece of material.

[0066] The end insert may be formed from a sheet of material to have an attached portion defining a prism, wherein the attached portion is separated from the sheet of material at a cutout in the attached portion, the cutout extending around the perimeter of the prism.

[0067] As used herein, the term "curled" and the like may be intended to describe a static shape after fabrication or to describe a dynamic process of curling during fabrication.

[0068] As used herein, the term "progress" of curling may be intended to describe a static shape or the dynamic process of curling or to describe the dynamic process of curling during a manufacturing process.

[0069] As used herein, the term "element" is intended to be used broadly to describe a mechanical element or component.

[0070] Further aspects include any combination of features described in any of the above paragraphs. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0071] Additional and further aspects of the present invention will become apparent to the reader from the following description of embodiments given by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0072] Figure 1 shows a cross-sectional side view of a base portion of a packaging container according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0073] Figure 2 Shows Figure 1 a cross-sectional side view of a tube body of a portion of a packaging container of the type shown in FIG. 1 , wherein the end insert is received within the tube body prior to attachment;

[0074] Figure 3 A cross-sectional side view showing a close-up of a portion of the package, wherein Figure 2 An end insert is attached to the tube body;

[0075] Figure 4 Shows Figures 1 to 3 The initial step in the manufacturing process of the tube package, where the position of the tube body is shown with the body added to the mandrel and end inserts Figure 3 A closer view of the mandrel used in the process of supporting the pipe wall and end inserts; and

[0076] Figure 5 Shown in Figure 3 A closer view of the mandrel used in the process of supporting the pipe wall and end insert; and

[0077] Figure 6 Shows Figure 4 a subsequent step in the process wherein the insert is attached to the tube body;

[0078] Figure 7 An apparatus operable to form a base for a tube package is shown;

[0079] Figure 8 A closer view of the base separating the device is shown;

[0080] Fig. 9 shows an underside plan view of the cutting head;

[0081] Fig.10showing a side view of a workstation of the apparatus for assembling a tube body and a base to provide a tube package;

[0082] Fig.11 showing a top plan view of an apparatus for forming an end tube for a tube package;

[0083] Figure 12 to Figure 14 A tool for attaching a base to a pipe body showing an embodiment of the present invention;

[0084] Figures 15 to 17 A first portion of a mold for making a base is shown;

[0085] Figures 18 to 20 A second portion of the mold for making the base is shown;

[0086] Figure 21 to Figure 23 schematically illustrates a curled shape for attaching an end insert to a container body;

[0087] Fig.24 shows a side view of an end insert according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0088] Fig.25 Shown according to Fig.24 A side view of an end insert of an embodiment of the invention deformed by an article in use; and

[0089] Fig.26 Shows further deformation due to the object Fig.25 A side view of an end insert;

[0090] Figures 27 to 30 Showing a plan view, a side view, a top view, and a bottom perspective view of an end insert according to another embodiment of the present invention;

[0091] Figure 31 to Figure 34 shows a plan view, a side view, a top view, and a bottom perspective view of an end insert according to another embodiment of the present invention; and

[0092] Figures 35 to 38 Plan, side, top, and bottom perspective views of end inserts according to additional embodiments of the present invention are shown.

[0093] Further aspects of the invention will become apparent from the following description of the invention which is given by way of example only of specific embodiments. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0094] Figure 1 A base section 1 of a packaging container according to an embodiment of the invention is shown.

[0095] The package has a body part 2 which provides walls 3 defining a prismatic space 4 for receiving goods or articles to be packaged. This space 4 may be referred to herein as a container space.

[0096] In this embodiment, the wall 3 has the form of a tube intended to extend upright and vertically. In this embodiment, the tube wall 3 forms a cylindrical tube, and the prismatic container space 4 is cylindrical. In other embodiments, the wall is arranged as an alternative to a tube, such as defining a square cross section or other cross section.

[0097] Figure 1 An end insert 5 is shown which provides an end element 6 or stop within the wall 3 substantially at the end of the body 2 to define, close or terminate the container space 4 .

[0098] When the package is used, the tube wall 3 defines a container space for the item to be packaged, and the end element 5 defines the lower end of the container space 4. In this example, goods are to be packaged in the container space. In this particular example, the packaged goods are horticultural goods.

[0099] During the manufacturing scheme shown herein, the end insert 5 is shown as being received or inserted into the tube wall. The end insert of this embodiment is formed from a piece of material into a prism that can be received or inserted into the end of the container space. In this case, the prism is a cylinder, and specifically a short cylinder closed at one end by an end element 6.

[0100] The end insert 5 has two parts. The first part of the end insert 5 is the end element 6 or stopper, which terminates the container space 4. The second part of the end insert is the attachment part 7, which is attached to the pipe wall to position and / or fix the end element 6 in the pipe body so as to terminate the container space 4.

[0101] Figure 2 The pipe body 3 is shown with the end insert 5 received in the pipe body prior to attachment. Figure 2 The gap or spacing between the tube wall 3 and the end insert 5 shown in FIG. 1 merely shows these parts as separate, even though the insert 5 is received in the tube body 3 with a smaller tolerance in this embodiment. Generally, the tolerance is such that the end insert 5 fits tightly, but the end insert can be inserted with minimal force, such as into the inverted wall 3 under the weight of the end member.

[0102] Figure 2 The first portion 6 of the end insert 5 is shown as an end element extending across the space within the pipe body. Figure 2Also shown is a second portion 7 of the insert 5, which is attached to the wall 3 to position and / or fix the end element 6 in the pipe body. The second portion 7 defines a wall section which gives the end insert a prismatic shape which is complementary to the prismatic cross-section of the pipe body at the end portion 8 of the wall 3. The complementary shapes allow the insert to fit inside the wall.

[0103] In this embodiment, the end insert 5 is a vacuum formed part. In this embodiment, the end insert is formed from a flat sheet of material. Figure 2 A prism shown in cross section.

[0104] The first part of the end element is the end element 5, the stop or stopper, which terminates the container space. The end element is positioned in the tube wall by the second part, which is formed as a wall that fits in the tube wall. In this example, the wall is dimensioned to have a tight fit, with the wall of the insert being parallel to the tube wall before the attachment step shown below.

[0105] Figure 3 Shows Figure 1 A close-up, cross-sectional side view of the package at the end where the end insert 5 is attached to the wall 3. The attached portion 8 of the body 2 is shown arranged or formed in a curled shape. The attached portion is formed by the end portion of the wall body 2. The attached portion 7 of the insert 5 is shown formed in a shape complementary to the end portion 8 of the wall 3. Figure 3 The attachment portion 7 of the end insert and the end portion 8 of the body are shown in a curled configuration to be arranged as a double-layer curled structure. The first outer layer 9 is provided by the end portion 8 of the tube body 2, and the second inner layer 10 is provided by the attachment portion 7 of the end insert 5. The second layer 10 shown is curled within the first layer 9 or inside the first layer 9. In this embodiment, the curl followed by the end portion 8 of the wall initially proceeds toward the central axis (not shown) of the prismatic container space 4 and then proceeds back toward the end of the container space 4 away from the end portion 8 of the wall. The curling after the attachment portion of the end insert is within the curling of the end portion 8 of the body. Here, the term progress is meant to describe the static curled shape.

[0106] Figure 4 1 shows the steps in the manufacture of a packaging container according to an embodiment of the present invention. Figure 4 Shown are bodies 103a to 103d, which are open-ended tubes referred to herein as tube bodies. The body 103 of this embodiment has Figure 1 The features of the body 2 of FIG. 1, although possibly different in size. In this embodiment, the wall of the body 2 defines a rounded prismatic tube.

[0107] exist Figure 4Also shown are end inserts 105a-105c adapted to define, terminate or close the ends of each respective tube 103. The end inserts 105 of this embodiment have Figure 1 The features of the end insert 5, although different in size, are the end inserts.

[0108] The main body 103 is similar to Figure 3 ' walls 3 , except that they do not yet have end portions that are curled for attaching a plurality of end inserts 105 .

[0109] Figure 4 Also shown are a series of mandrels that cooperate with the tube body 103.

[0110] In the steps of the method shown, an end insert is inserted into the upper end of the pipe body 103, such as Figure 1 As shown, and push it in to abut against the upper support 125. In this example, the end insert 105 rests on the upper support 125.

[0111] like Figure 4 As shown, mandrels 104a, 104d are engaged with pipe body 103 only, exposing upper support 125. Mandrel 104b is in the process of being provided with end insert 105b.

[0112] In other examples, the end insert may be a tight friction fit in the tube body, and the upper support may be used only to position the end insert 105 .

[0113] In other examples, the end insert may have tolerances that allow the end insert to move into the pipe body 103 under the weight of the end insert. The upper support 125 positions the end insert 105 relative to a portion of the wall 103.

[0114] The end insert 105c of the mandrel 104c fits over the end of the tube body and abuts the upper support 125c. Due to the position of the lower support for a given length of tube body, as shown, the upper end of the end insert is flush with the upper end of the tube body. Although shown as the upper end of the end insert and the tube body, these refer to the bottom of the package including the tube body and the end insert in use, i.e. when the package is in use. In use, the end insert will define or close the bottom of the tube body and the tube package.

[0115] Figure 4 Also shown is a moving platform 110 on which the mandrel is mounted. The moving platform is capable of moving the mandrel to a workstation for further manufacturing steps as described and illustrated below.

[0116] Figure 5A tube is shown that has been placed on a mandrel 120. The mandrel 120 has a base 121 mounted on a platform or table 110. In this example, the table is rotatable to allow the mandrel to be moved with the various manufacturing stations ( Figure 5 The rotary table is aligned with the cam (not shown in the figure but shown in the figure below).

[0117] The mandrel 120 has a lower support 122 for the tube body 103, which is capable of supporting the lower end of the tube body 103 at a given distance from the upper end of the mandrel 120. The position of the lower support relative to the upper support arranges the upper end of the end insert and the wall provided by the body 103 to be flush. In this embodiment, the relative position of the lower support relative to the upper support is adjusted for a given length of the wall and the attached part of the end insert.

[0118] like Figure 5 As shown, the tube body 103 is inverted compared to its intended use. Figure 5 The upper end of the tube shown in will be the lower end of the tube in its intended use. The lower support 122 for the tube may be referred to herein as the lower tube support. In this example, the tube support 122 has an insertion portion 123 that is inserted into the tube by the action of assembling the tube on the mandrel and is allowed to rest on the lower support. The insertion portion 123 of the lower tube support tapers toward a tube support flange 124 to support the tube 103, which is provided as a seat for the tube 103. The tapered portion aligns the body 103 with the mandrel, even if simply dropped onto the mandrel, so as to speed up the step of assembling the body 103 to the mandrel assembly and minimize any labor involved. The tube support flange 124 may be referred to herein as a mandrel flange or a support flange.

[0119] As shown, the mandrel 122 has an upper support 125. The upper support may be referred to herein as an end insert support or an upper mandrel support. In this example, the upper support is attached to a mandrel column 126, which is attached to the base to provide structural support for the rest of the mandrel.

[0120] The distance of the tube support flange from the upper support 125 and the length of the tube body determines the distance 127 that the tube body 103 extends above the upper support 125 .

[0121] In this example, the height of the lower support 122 relative to the spindle column is adjustable. This allows the distance that a given length of pipe body will extend above the upper support 125 to be adjusted.

[0122] In various embodiments, the tubular body 103 mounted on the mandrel rests on a lower support flange located at a point on the column of the mandrel that allows the tubular body to extend a selected length above the upper support.

[0123] exist Figure 5 In the embodiment of the embodiment, the end insert is shown resting against the upper support, which positions the end insert so that the top of the end insert (as shown) is adjacent to the end of the tube body. In alternative embodiments, as shown, the upper end of the end insert and the upper end of the tube body may not be flush or aligned.

[0124] Figure 6 A series of mandrels 103e and 103h are shown on which the tube bodies 103e to 103h and end inserts 105e to 103h have been assembled. In this embodiment, the steps in the method attach the end inserts to the tube bodies at their assumed positions relative to the tube bodies when the inserts are positioned by the upper supports and the tube bodies are positioned by the tube body supports. The attached end inserts provide an attached lower element for the receiving space provided by the tube.

[0125] In the illustrated embodiment, portions of the upper end of the tube body and end insert (as shown) are rolled or crimped to attach the end insert to the appropriate location in the tube body. In this example, the location is determined by the position of the lower support relative to the upper support and the length of the tube body.

[0126] In this embodiment, the tube bodies and end inserts are crimped by heating the ends and pressing the ends into a cavity (not shown). In this embodiment, the V-shaped cavity is tapered. In this example, the curl is inward toward the center of the tube and back in a direction away from the top of the tube body, as shown. This is inward and upward when the tube body is intended to be used, or when the tube body is in Figure 6 The ends of the tube body and the end insert form a double curled shape. The curled ends form the base of the tube.

[0127] In one example, the cavity is provided by a tool that provides a cavity in a metal disk. In one example, the metal is brass. In some examples, heating is performed by a heating element in contact with the tube.

[0128] exist Figure 5In the example shown, the workstation 127 heats the end of the pipe body and the end insert (hereinafter referred to as the end). In this example, the heating element is relatively moved toward the mandrel to bring the end into contact with the heating element. In this example, the workstation provides a metal tool with a cavity that tapers from a diameter that matches the pipe body, or is wider than the pipe body, toward a surface within the cavity that is transverse to or substantially perpendicular to the pipe body. As the tool with the cavity moves downward, the heated ends are pushed inward by the cone until they abut against the vertical surface, which forces them away from the vertical surface and toward the end of the pipe body opposite to the heated pipe end.

[0129] These curled ends form a double rounded end or curled end for the tube body which attaches the end insert in place to provide a lower surface for the container space of the tube in use. In this embodiment, the shape of the curled end attaches the end insert in place. The reader will appreciate that this means of attachment allows the flexible, resilient wall and end insert to be attached simply by their shape and can allow them to remain attached while remaining flexible and resilient.

[0130] In some alternative embodiments, the heating and crimping of the end also bonds the end insert to the tube body.Different alternative embodiments may use different combinations of attachment by shape or bonding.

[0131] The mobile platform on which the mandrel is mounted can be moved to move the mandrel with the pipe body and the end insert from the workstation where the pipe body is placed on the mandrel to other workstations where the end insert is added to the end curling workstation. The mobile platform can also move the pipe body and the end insert to the workstation where the end insert is attached to the pipe body.

[0132] Figure 7 An apparatus 200 is shown which is operable to provide an end insert having a base shape 201 for a tube package. These end inserts define or terminate a container space defined by the walls of a container body. In this example, the container body defines a prismatic container space. In a specific example, the prism is cylindrical.

[0133] like Figure 7 As shown, a sheet of material 202 has a set of base shapes formed therein. In this embodiment, the base is formed by heating the sheet of material 202 and clamping the sheet of material between tools to form the shapes for the base or end insert of the tube package. The shapes in the sheet shown are connected by the remainder of the sheet located between the base shapes. The remainder of the sheet of material, other than the base shapes, is defined in a plane. The base shapes 201 formed by the sheet need to be separated from the remainder of the sheet to be used as the base of the tube package.

[0134] The sheet 202 is shown on a support 203 .

[0135] In this embodiment, the first and second actuators are arranged to move the separation device 206 relative to the support 203 and the sheet 202 in a horizontal plane.

[0136] The first substrate actuator 204 is operable to translate the separation device 206 relative to the support 203 in a first axis. The second substrate actuator 205 is operable to translate the separation device 206 relative to the support 203 in a second axis.

[0137] Figure 7 A base separation device 206 is shown. The base separation device is operable to separate a base shape 201 formed in a sheet from a sheet 202. The base separation device can be arranged to align in a horizontal plane, as shown, with any base shape formed in the sheet, by movement of the first and second translators. The base separation device 206 is mounted on a vertical actuator 207, which is operable to vertically translate or move the cutting device relative to the aligned base shape 201.

[0138] The sheet 202 is shown with a base shape 201 arranged concavely upward as shown. The support of this embodiment has a cylindrical cavity to receive the base shape and can be identified as a fixture. In this example, the fixture has a hole formed in the plate of support material to provide a cavity.

[0139] Figure 8 A closer view of the base separation device 206 is shown. As shown, the base separation device has a mounting 210 to mount it to the vertical actuator. The base separation device has a motor 211 and a cutting head 212.

[0140] Fig. 9 212 is shown in plan view from the bottom side of the cutting head. This view is from below, as in Figure 7 and Figure 8 as shown in .

[0141] like Fig. 9 As shown, the cutting head 212 has a blade base 213 and a mounted blade 214. The blade of this particular embodiment is adapted to pierce the base shape and has a point 215 extending from the portion providing the mounting 213. In this case, the piercing is arranged by the blade moving outward from inside the concave base shape 201. The blade is also adapted to cut the base shape at the circumference of the wall formed in the base shape to separate the base from the remainder of the sheet and provide an end insert for container packaging. The blade base allows the position of the blade to be adjusted to adjust how far the point 215 extends.

[0142] In the present embodiment, the base separator actuator is operable to move the base separator so that the portion of the blade of the cutting head 212 is received in the upwardly concave base shape. In the present embodiment, the base separator 206 can move the cutting head so that the blade 214 pierces the sheet material outside the plane of the remainder of the sheet material at the base shape 201. In the present embodiment, the blade pierces the base shape near the periphery of the concave shape of the base shape. The base shape of an example has a base portion arranged to terminate a tube container, and has a side wall arranged parallel to the wall of the tube when the base is inserted into the tube package. In this example, the base separation device is operable to cut around the wall to separate the base shape at the wall to provide a base. In this example, the base shape 201 has a wall defining a cylinder, which is assembled in the cylinder of the tube body and the incision in the wall separates the base shape from the sheet material.

[0143] Fig.10 A side view of a workstation 220 of an apparatus 221 according to another embodiment is shown. The apparatus shown assembles a tube body with a base to provide a tube package. Here, the base is equivalent to the end insert of the embodiments described herein. The workstation 220 has a movable mandrel 222. In this embodiment, the mandrel 222 is movable to translate between this workstation and other workstations of the apparatus 221.

[0144] In this example, the mandrel 222 has a post onto which the tube body 223 can be mounted. Fig.10 The workstation shown in is operable to position the base 221 in the tube body 223 before the base is attached, thereby providing a base end for the tube. In this embodiment, the base is inserted into the end of the tube and can be identified as an end insert. The tube can be considered to define a prismatic container space. In this particular embodiment, the base 221 is shaped to have walls defining a prism that is complementary to the prismatic space defined by the walls of the tube body 223.

[0145] Fig.10 The mandrel 222 shown in FIG. has been assembled with a tube body 223. The mandrel provides an upper support 224 which is exposed by the tube body before being equipped with a base 225. The base rests on the upper support 224. Fig.10 As shown, the upper support is arranged at a height so that the top of the base, or the top of the wall of the base defining the complementary prism, is aligned with the end of the wall of the tube (not shown). This can be considered to be neither the wall of the base nor the wall of the tube body extending beyond the other.

[0146] Fig.11A top plan view of an apparatus 230 for forming a terminating tube for tube packaging is shown. In this embodiment, the tube packaging is provided by a terminating tube and a cover or cap (not shown). In this example, the terminating tube is provided by a tube wall, or body, end insert, or base.

[0147] The first workstation 231 is operable to punch holes (not shown) in the wall of the tube body at the end, which is away from the end terminated by the base. In use, these holes will be located at the upper end of the tube package. These holes are engaged by protrusions (not shown) formed in the cover in use.

[0148] like Fig.11 As shown, across the left side of the page, the apparatus 230 has five spindle actuators 232 to 236, each of which is operable to move a spindle 237 to 241 in which the base has been assembled.

[0149] Fig.11 Attachment stations 242 and 243 are shown for each spindle actuator 232. The first attachment station 242 is shown having a tool that defines a heated cavity. The tool of the first attachment station 242 may be referred to as a hot tool. The heated cavity is operable to heat the end of the tube wall and the adjacent end of the wall of the end insert or base. The tube wall and base of this embodiment are formed of a material that softens and becomes compliant when heated.

[0150] The first attached workstation 242 is operable to move a heat tool down, or into the page as shown, over the bases of the tubes and assemblies to heat the ends of each tube and assembled base.

[0151] The second attached workstation 243 is shown having a tool that is defined as a cooler cavity than the heated cavity. The tool of the second attached workstation may be referred to as a cold tool. In this embodiment, the cooler cavity is at a temperature selected for the material used for the tube body and end inserts, which sets the material to the final shape or configuration. In this embodiment, the cooler cavity is at room temperature.

[0152] The first attached workstation 242 is operable to move the hot cavity downwardly to Fig.11 In the page shown, and above the tube body and base insert, to heat the ends of the tube body and end insert. In this embodiment, the ends of the walls defined by the tube body and end insert are received in the cavity of the hot tool or heating tool to be heated and made compliant.

[0153] The second attached workstation is operable to move the cold cavity downwardly to Fig.11 , and above the tube body and base insert. In this embodiment, the end of the wall defined by the tube body and the end insert is received in the cavity of the cold tool.

[0154] The hot tool and the cold tool act to form the end of the wall of the tube body and the end of the wall of the base into a shape that attaches the end insert to the tube body. In this example, the shape is a two-layer curl, one layer provided by the tube wall and the other provided by the wall of the base.

[0155] For example, the mandrel actuator 232 may be operable to translate the mandrel with the tube body and insert to a first attachment station and then to a second attachment station to allow the end insert to be attached to the tube body.

[0156] Figure 12 to Figure 14 A tool 250 of an embodiment of the present invention is shown for attaching an end insert to a pipe body of various embodiments of the present invention described herein.

[0157] Fig.12 A plan view of the tool is shown.

[0158] Fig.13 A cut-away front view of the tool is shown. Figures 7 to 11 The workstation of the embodiment is operable to move the tool vertically or as Fig.13 The tool is shown as being moved up and down on the page to move the tool relative to the tube body. In other embodiments, the mandrel is movable.

[0159] Fig.13 Also shown is the tube body 223 in the entry position. For clarity, the base or end insert to be assembled into the tube body is shown from Fig.13 250 is omitted. As shown, the tool 250 defines a cavity 252 on the underside. In this example, the cavity 252 is shown to have a width or diameter that is wider than the tube. The cavity tapers upwardly and inwardly toward the interior of the cavity. The tube body is heated and the tool is forced relative to the tube body, which will have a leading edge (as shown at the upper end) that points inwardly to the interior of the cavity and toward the center of the tube body.

[0160] Fig.14 A closer cutaway elevation view of a portion of tool 250 is shown to illustrate the shape of the cavity provided by the tool. Fig.14 As shown, the cavity 252 of this embodiment has a peripheral edge 253 at the open end 254 of the cavity, and the open end is wider than the pipe body and the end insert received in the pipe body. As shown in this embodiment, the cavity has a peripheral wall 255, which tapers inwardly and upwardly from the periphery of the open end. Fig.14The cavity of the embodiment has an end or cavity tip 256 of the cavity distal to the cavity opening 254. In this embodiment, the end 256 of the cavity is arranged parallel to the end portion of the base (not shown) that terminates the tube package and parallel to the leading edge 257 of the tube body. Fig.14 As shown, a radius 258 is formed between the cavity wall 255 and the cavity end 256. In this embodiment, the radius extends beyond the cavity end, or as shown, beyond the cavity end. In an alternative embodiment, the radius 258 may not extend beyond the cavity end.

[0161] The function of the hot and cold tubes is to crimp the end of the tube body proximate to the end insert to attach the insert to the tube body at the end of the tube wall. The tube wall defines a container space, and the end element of the end insert terminates the container space at the end intended to be proximate to the base of the packaging container.

[0162] The process of making an end insert, base or base end for tube packaging is as follows.

[0163] In a first step S3-1, a set of base shapes 201 are formed in a sheet of material.

[0164] In the second step S3-2, the sheet material in which the base shape is formed is placed on a Figure 7 The base shape of this embodiment is concave upward. This step generally includes forming each base shape one by one.

[0165] In a third step S3 - 3 , the base separation device is moved by actuators 205 , 206 and 207 to a position over the base shape.

[0166] In a fourth step S3-4, the blade 215 is forced through the side wall of the base shape and moves around the wall to separate the base shape from the rest of the sheet material. Separation by this method does not leave a residual flange formed on the wall of the base shape. This avoids any flange that would hinder the crimping operation used to attach the base to the tube body. The base shape separated from the rest of the sheet provides an end insert, such as Figure 1 An end insert 5 of one embodiment is shown in FIG.

[0167] Figures 15 to 17 A first part 260 of a moulding tool for making a base or end insert is shown. Figures 18 to 20 A second part 261 is shown which is complementary to part 260. Typically, the sheet of material is heated and then sandwiched between the two parts 260 and 261 shown. The first part 260 defines a convex shape 262 and is used to form a concave shape in the sheet of material. In this embodiment, the convex shape is an ellipse.

[0168] The periphery of the convex area 262 of the first part is an edge 263 above a wall 264 .

[0169] Figures 18 to 20 The second part 270 is shown with a concave cavity 271 for forming a protrusion in the shape of a base. In this particular embodiment, the material that is heated and sandwiched between the first part 260 and the second part 270 is formed into a generally dome shape. The dome is deformable to allow the base to act as a spring or biasing element to absorb momentum and / or vibration and / or shock of the contents of the container. Alternative base shapes are used in alternative embodiments.

[0170] exist Figures 18 to 20 At the periphery of the concave region 271 of the second part 270 is an annular region 272 which protrudes from the part and is arranged in shape similar to that of the concave region 271 of the second part 270. Figures 15 to 17 The edges of the parts are complementary. In use, the material is clamped between the edge and the annular area and the edge to form the base shape.

[0171] Figures 17 to 20 The second part is shown having a hole 273 and a recess 274 to facilitate connection to other parts of the device (not shown), such as an actuator or a mount for a clamping operation.

[0172] Will see Figure 21 to Figure 23 Further shown is the working mechanism for attaching the end insert to the container wall.

[0173] Fig.21 A cross section of a container wall portion at a first end of a container space is shown, and the second attached portion of the end insert is both curled. The second attached portion of the end insert is arranged in a roll within a roll of a section of the container wall portion. In this example, the roll has advanced toward the central axis of the prismatic container space defined by the wall, and further toward the second end of the container space. As shown, the roll advances through an angle A greater than 180 degrees from a line formed by one side of the wall or the central axis of the container space.

[0174] Fig. 22 A cross section of a container wall portion at the first end of the container space is shown, and both the second attached portion of the end insert are curled. The second attached portion of the end insert is arranged in a roll within the roll of the section of the container wall portion. In this example, the roll advances toward the central axis of the prismatic container space defined by the wall, and further advances toward the second end of the container space, and further advances toward the container wall again, and further back toward the first end of the container space. As shown, the roll advances through an angle B greater than 270 degrees from a line formed by one side of the wall or the central axis of the container space.

[0175] Fig.23 A cross section of a container wall portion at a first end of a container space is shown, and both the second attached portion of the end insert are curled. The second attached portion of the end insert is arranged in a roll within a roll of a section of the container wall portion. In this example, the roll has advanced toward the central axis of the prismatic container space defined by the wall, and further advanced toward the second end of the container space, further advanced toward the container wall again, further retreated toward the first end of the container space, and further away from the container wall. As shown, the roll extends an angle C from a line formed by one side of the wall or the central axis of the container space and is greater than 360 degrees.

[0176] In the process of making the package, a roll greater than 180 degrees, 270 degrees, or 360 degrees is formed by pressing a sufficient length of the container body and a sufficient length of the attached portion of the end insert against the tool. In some embodiments, the container body and the end insert are forced against the face of the cavity in the terminating tool. In other embodiments, the container body and the end insert are forced against a radius formed in the tool.

[0177] A curled container wall formed of a flexible and elastic sheet material having a second portion of an end insert provides a flexible, elastic attachment to the end insert, the second portion of the end insert also being formed of flexibility and arranged in a roll within the curl. The attachment provided relies solely on the elastic material to maintain its shape while allowing the material to bend. Therefore, embodiments of the present invention provide container packaging that is generally flexible and elastic. Specifically, embodiments of the present invention provide container packaging with an end, an end insert or a flexible and elastic attachment to the end. Packaging containers formed of flexible sheet material are generally flexible and elastic.

[0178] Fig.24 A container 201 is shown. The container 201 has walls 202 defining a container space 203 to accommodate one or more items ( Figure 1 ). In this example, the container is a packaging item suitable for packaging the contained items. In this example, the items are fruits. In other examples, the items can be any items that the reader knows the container is suitable for containing. Generally, the items have a size suitable for being contained in the container space in the stack.

[0179] The container has a support element 204 for supporting the contained items. The support element supports the items within the container walls. Fig.24 The base end of the container is shown, and the support element supports the items to terminate the base end of the container area to prevent the items from flowing out of the base end of the container space.

[0180] Fig.24As shown in , the support element 204 has a profile as shown by the vertical bisector, which has a horizontal portion 206 at the center and a relatively vertical portion 205 relative to the center portion at the periphery near the container wall 202. This profile allows the support element to deform near the center under a given force, but deform toward the periphery under a greater force. In some embodiments, the horizontal and relatively vertical portions provide a gradual strain modulus in response to the stress provided by one or more articles. The stress can be provided by the static weight of the article. More specifically, the stress has a dynamic component provided by the articles moving in the container space. For example, the article can fall on the support element. For example, the article can vibrate or shake during transportation. In some embodiments, the gradual deformation modulus allows a certain range of deformation under a given force provided by the article, wherein the force causing the initial deformation is less than the force required to cause the continuous deformation. The initial deformation occurs mainly in the horizontal portion. The continuous deformation also requires the deformation of the relatively vertical portion of the support element.

[0181] In the embodiment shown, the support element is resilient and provides an opposing force to the items. This may be a biasing force. In some embodiments, the support element acts as a spring. In various embodiments, the support element acts as a biasing element to bias the items away from the base end of the container region.

[0182] In some embodiments, the support element has an oval profile.

[0183] In some embodiments, the support element has a generally oval profile.

[0184] In some embodiments, the support element has the contour of a sphere.

[0185] In some embodiments, the support element has a generally hemispherical profile.

[0186] Fig.24 A support element as an end portion of a container is shown, the support element having a first portion 207 terminating in the container space 203 and a second portion attached to the container wall 2 for positioning the end portion.

[0187] As shown, the end portion or support element is positioned adjacent one end of the container wall 202 .

[0188] Fig.24 The end or container wall providing the base for the container is shown.

[0189] exist Figure 1In the embodiment shown, the second portion of the end portion has a shape complementary to the container wall. In this embodiment, the second portion is attached to the container wall via the end of the container wall, and the second portion of the end portion curls inwardly toward the central axis of the container space and upwardly away from the end of the container adjacent to the end portion. Fig.24 As shown, this is inward and upward.

[0190] exist Fig.24 In the embodiment shown, the support element is vacuum formed.

[0191] Fig.24 The support element of an embodiment is vacuum formed from a sheet of material.

[0192] The support element of this embodiment is formed from a piece of material to have an attached portion that defines a prism that is complementary to the container wall. That is, the prism defined by the second portion or end of the support element has a cross-section that is the same as the container shape, but may have a smaller width to provide tolerance for the support element to be received within the container wall.

[0193] In this embodiment, the attachment is separated from the sheet at a cut in the attachment. The cut extends around the periphery of the prism. This eliminates the possibility of tolerances around the prism that may be left by a punch that moves longitudinally to the prism, or as Fig.24 Any flange shown downward.

[0194] In this example, the support element is formed from a sheet of material using a horizontally oriented die to form a support element having vertical walls defining a prism and then separating the support element from the remainder of the sheet of material using cuts made around the vertical walls. In other examples, the die may not be oriented horizontally, and the orientation of the other components and steps described may be adjusted accordingly.

[0195] Fig.25 Shown according to Figure 1 A container of an embodiment wherein the support element supports the item 210. Fig.25 The central portion 205 of the support element is shown, which supports the item by deforming through the item and providing a reaction force. The item can be considered to be suspended. This can be suspended above the surface 211 of the support container 201. If the item 210 is moving towards the surface 11, the reaction force provided by the support element is Fig.25 In some example scenarios, the movement of item 210 is stopped before it receives an opposing impact from surface 211 that could damage and / or scratch the item.

[0196] Fig.25An area within the inflection point perimeter 212 is shown which is deformed to be concave toward the container region.

[0197] Fig.25 An article 210 is shown supported at a location adjacent the base end of the container wall 2 . Figure 2 An article 210 is shown supported at a location adjacent the base end of the container 1 .

[0198] Fig.26 Shown according to Fig.24 and Fig.25 The container of the embodiment of the present invention, wherein the support element supports the article 210, wherein the article is moved further toward the base end of the container. This is closer to the end of the container wall 202 that provides the base.

[0199] In this example, Fig.26 Shown in comparison Fig.25 The greater reaction force in the object 210 prevents the object 210 from moving. In this example, Fig.25 The movement of the item (such as vibration) is shown to be prevented by the support element. In this example, Fig.26 Also shown is the movement of items, such as when a stack of items is placed into the top of the container space.

[0200] In another example, Fig.25 shows the deformation before movement is arrested, and Fig.26 The items are shown after a delay.

[0201] In another example, deformation of a portion that is concave inside the inflection point perimeter and opposite the remainder of the convex support element dissipates energy and provides damping of movement of a supported item.

[0202] In other embodiments, the material shape, thickness, or any other parameter known to the reader of the support element is selected to provide damping.

[0203] In alternative embodiments, the support element may be part of an end portion of the container to terminate the container space. In these embodiments, the end portion may also have an attachment portion that is attached to the container wall to position the support element.

[0204] In an alternative embodiment, the support element is a container base cap.

[0205] In an alternative embodiment, the support element is attached by receiving a portion of an end portion of the container wall.

[0206] Further and additional embodiments will now be presented.

[0207] Various embodiments of the present invention provide container packaging that eliminates the need for adhesives.

[0208] Various embodiments of the present invention provide container packaging that eliminates the need for adhesion or cohesion.

[0209] Various embodiments of the present invention provide a container package that eliminates the need for a material to rigidly retain its shape.

[0210] Various embodiments of the present invention provide container packaging, manufacturing methods or manufacturing apparatus that eliminate the need for seam clamping.

[0211] Various embodiments of the present invention provide a container package, a manufacturing method or a manufacturing apparatus that allows the container package to be manufactured with a small number of steps.

[0212] Various embodiments of the present invention provide a container package, a manufacturing method or a manufacturing apparatus that allows for rapid and cost-effective manufacturing of the container package.

[0213] In this example, the vacuum formed end insert is sized to extend into the tube body in a short manner.

[0214] In an alternative embodiment, the tube wall is replaced with a wall arranged in the shape of a tube substitute. In an alternative embodiment, the wall arranged in the shape of a tube substitute replaces the tube body. The alternative shape of the arranged wall can be any prism shape known to the reader to be suitable for a specific application or implementation of the present invention, and the alternative shape can include but is not limited to a square prism, a triangular prism, a star prism, and an elliptical prism.

[0215] In various embodiments, an alternative to the end element of the insert may terminate a space within the wall of the container or tube. In these and various other embodiments, the end element may be replaced with a closing element capable of closing all or part of the container space. In these and various other embodiments, the end element may be replaced with a terminating element capable of terminating all or part of the container space.

[0216] In various embodiments, an end portion or end insert may be attached to terminate the middle portion of the container space. The terms "end portion" and "end insert" are used interchangeably herein. The term end insert used with respect to packaging refers to a part, which simply reflects that the part is inserted into the container wall during the manufacturing process of the packaging.

[0217] As used herein, the term "portion" is intended to refer broadly to a part of a whole.

[0218] As used herein, the term "container" is used broadly to include any package capable of holding an item, and is not limited to a container having a lid.

[0219] The reader may recognize the end element of some embodiments presented herein as terminating the container space at its base.

[0220] In various alternative embodiments, a container wall or similar portion described herein may not have a circular cross-section or define a cylindrical region, but may have any alternative profile and define an alternative prism as known to the reader to be suitable for a given application.

[0221] This space 4 defined by the wall 3, and similar spaces in other embodiments, may be referred to herein as a container space, a prismatic container space, or a container area.

[0222] In alternative embodiments, the first and second substrate actuators are arranged vertically or in an orientation other than horizontal, with the remainder of the apparatus arranged in a manner similar to that of FIG. Figure 7 The actuators shown have the same relationship.

[0223] In alternative embodiments, the blade is replaced with an alternative separator. In various examples, the separator can be a cutting wheel, a laser, a water jet cutter, or any alternative known to the reader.

[0224] The reader will appreciate that separating the base shape from the remainder of the sheet at the periphery of the base shape can eliminate the flange portion formed at the periphery of the base shape. This is the case, for example, when the base shape is separated at the wall of the base shape.

[0225] In alternative embodiments, the base separator is operable to move the cutting head as a whole. In these embodiments, the base separator is operable to move the cutting head so that the blade pierces the base shape. This can be considered as a radial movement relative to the base shape.

[0226] In various embodiments, see Figure 12 to Figure 14 The tool shown provides a heat tool to heat the end insert and pipe body as shown herein.

[0227] In various embodiments, see Figure 12 to Figure 14 The tool shown provides a cold tool as shown herein.

[0228] In some embodiments, the hot tool and the cold tool are similarly shaped tools that differ only in their operating temperatures. In one of these embodiments, see Figure 12 to Figure 14 The tool shown provides both hot and cold tools.

[0229] In some embodiments, only hot tools are used and cold tools are omitted.

[0230] In various embodiments, the radius formed between the cavity wall and the cavity tip provided by the tool is arranged to cause the walls of the tube and the end tip to curl inwardly toward the cavity and away from the cavity wall when the tube body and end insert are forced into the cavity.

[0231] In an alternative embodiment, a clamping portion (such as Figures 15 to 20 ) have alternative shapes formed in the area to form alternative base shapes. Different embodiments include stepped shapes, high domes, low domes, ovals, and shapes with different profiles on an axis perpendicular to the axis of movement in the clamping operation, and other shapes known to the reader as being suitable for a given weight, type of item to be packaged, ripeness of fruit, type of fruit, or other characteristics of the item to be packaged.

[0232] Embodiments of the present invention may provide a base adapted to terminate a container space defined by a wall container and / or a tube container, the base being formed from a sheet of material and being separated from the sheet without leaving a residual flange of material from the sheet when the base is separated from the remainder of the sheet. Embodiments may provide a base without a flange that may inhibit curling to attach the base to a container body or container wall.

[0233] Embodiments of the present invention may provide an end insert for a container body defining a wall container and / or a tube container, with a base formed from a sheet of material and separated from the sheet without leaving a residual flange of material from the sheet when the base is separated from the remainder of the sheet. Embodiments may provide a base without a flange that may inhibit curling to attach the base to a container body or container wall.

[0234] In further embodiments, the dome of the base for the tube package can act as a shock absorber, providing mechanical damping in addition to acting as a spring.

[0235] In alternative embodiments, the curled container wall and portions or walls of the end insert, tip or base may be replaced with any deformation method known to the reader as suitable for attaching the end insert, tip or base to the container wall.

[0236] In alternative embodiments, the curling of the container wall and the portion or wall of the end insert, tip or base (base) may be replaced by any method known to the reader as being suitable for arranging the contour shape of the insert, base or tip and wall to attach the end insert, tip or base to the wall of the container. The contour may include folding, curling, bending of the entire circumference of the wall and base or of one or more portions of the circumference of the wall and base.

[0237] In various further aspects and embodiments, equivalent components are substituted for given components. For example, in further aspects and embodiments, any end insert, insert, base, base end, end may be substituted for any other of these.

[0238] exist Figure 5 In the embodiment of the embodiment, the end insert is shown against the upper support, which positions the end insert so that the top of the end insert (as shown) is adjacent the end of the tube body. In alternative embodiments, as shown, the upper end of the end insert and the upper end of the tube body may not be flush or aligned. In some alternative embodiments, the wall may extend beyond, or above the attached portion of the end insert as shown.

[0239] Figures 27 to 30 An end insert 305 according to a further embodiment of the present invention is shown. Figures 27 to 30 An end insert with a second portion or attachment portion is shown because it attaches the end insert to the container body before curling with the container body (not shown). The end insert 305 of this embodiment has an annular region 321, which extends upward in use as shown. A recessed region 322 is also shown. The recessed region is shaped to expand force and reduce pressure on the surface of the article (not shown) supported by the end insert in use. In use, when the article to be supported moves downward, the article is supported by the recessed region through force diffusion and reduced pressure. The recessed region is supported by an annular deformation region 321. The annular region 321 is supported by an attachment 321. The annular region 321 is deformed or bent to absorb any vibration or movement of the article (not shown) toward the surface on which the packaging container is supported. The article can be described as being suspended by the recessed region 322 and the deformation region 321.

[0240] Figure 31 to Figure 34 An end insert 405 according to a further embodiment of the invention is shown. Attachment portion 407 is visible. Support area 422 for supporting an item (not shown) is also shown. These Figure 31 to Figure 34 The end insert has a support element 421 with an end 423 that abuts the surface on which the container is supported so as to support the support area 422. Depending on the size of the support elements, they will prevent movement, absorb shock, and prevent movement of items.

[0241] Figures 35 to 38An end insert 405 according to a further embodiment of the invention is shown. Attachment portion 507 is clearly shown. As shown in use, a horizontal deforming element extends from attachment portion 507 to a first support region 422, which supports a second support region. In use, an article (not shown) is supported by regions 422 and 423, and region 421 is deformed. Depending on the specific application, the deforming element deforms to prevent movement of the article, inhibit movement of the article, or absorb shock that the article may experience.

[0242] In a first aspect of the present invention, a packaging article is provided, the packaging article comprising:

[0243] walls arranged to define a prismatic container space; and

[0244] An end insert is received in a tube wall at a first end of a container space, the end portion having a first portion terminating the first end of the container space and a second portion attached to the tube wall to position the first portion in the tube wall, wherein a section of the tube wall adjacent to the end of the container space terminated by the first portion of the end insert extends back in a first coil toward an end of the container space remote from the termination end, and wherein the second portion of the end insert extends in a second coil inside the first coil.

[0245] Another aspect of the present invention provides a packaging article, the packaging article comprising:

[0246] walls arranged to define a prismatic container space; and

[0247] An end portion located at a first end of a container space so as to terminate the prismatic container space, the end portion having a first portion terminating the container space and having a second portion attached to a tube wall to position the first portion, wherein the second portion of the end portion is attached to the section of the tube wall by curling the second portion and the section of the tube wall.

[0248] Another aspect of the present invention provides a packaging article, the packaging article comprising:

[0249] a container wall arranged to define a prismatic container space; and

[0250] An end portion, the end portion is positioned to terminate a prismatic container space, the end portion having a first portion terminating the container space and having a second portion attached to the tube wall to position the first portion, wherein the second portion of the end insert is attached to the section of the tube wall via the second portion, and the sections of the container wall are each arranged in a roll, wherein one of the container wall and the second portion of the end portion is arranged within the other.

[0251] Another aspect of the present invention provides a package, the package comprising:

[0252] walls arranged to define a prismatic container space; and

[0253] An end insert is received in the tube wall at a first end of the container space, the end portion having a first portion terminating the first end of the container space and having a second portion attached to the wall to position the first portion within the wall, wherein the second portion of the end insert is attached to the section of the wall by crimping the second portion and the section of the tube wall.

[0254] Another aspect of the present invention provides a method for manufacturing a packaging article, the method comprising the following steps:

[0255] providing walls defining a prismatic space;

[0256] providing an insert shaped to define a prism shaped to be inserted into the prismatic space, the insert having a first portion capable of terminating the prismatic space and the insert having a second portion capable of being attached to the wall; and

[0257] The insert is attached to the wall by crimping an end section of the wall adjacent the insert and crimping a second portion of the insert.

[0258] As used herein, the term "extending transversely to" means extending in a direction transverse to a plane or in a direction across a plane, for example.

[0259] In the above description and the following claims, the word "comprises" or its equivalent variations are used in an inclusive sense to specify the presence of a stated feature or features. The term does not exclude the presence or addition of other features in various embodiments.

[0260] It should be understood that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments described herein, and that further and additional embodiments within the spirit and scope of the present invention will be apparent to the skilled person from the examples shown with reference to the accompanying drawings. Specifically, the present invention may exist in any combination of the features described herein, or may exist in alternative embodiments or combinations of these features with known equivalents for given features. Modifications and variations of the example embodiments of the present invention discussed above will be apparent to those skilled in the art, and may be made without departing from the scope of the present invention as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A packaging container, the packaging container being formed by one or more pieces of flexible elastic material, the packaging container comprising: a container body formed from a sheet of flexible elastic material and providing a container wall defining a container space; Its characteristic is that: the packaging container also includes an end insert formed from a piece of flexible, resilient material, the end insert having a first portion capable of terminating the container space, and the end insert having a second portion capable of positioning the first portion to terminate a first end of the container space; wherein the container body has a rolled portion arranged as a roll, the roll initially traveling inwardly toward a central axis of the container space and then traveling toward a second end or the container space away from the first end, wherein the end insert has a curled portion arranged as a roll, the roll initially moving inwardly toward a central axis of the container space and then moving toward a second end or the container space away from the first end, and wherein the roll of the second portion of the end insert is arranged within the roll of the container wall portion.

2. The packaging container according to claim 1, wherein: The curled portion of the end insert formed of a flexible, resilient material is attached to the container body via the curled portion of the container wall portion also formed of a flexible, resilient material.

3. The packaging container according to claim 2, wherein: The curled portion of the container body and the curled portion of the second portion of the end insert travel further outwardly toward the container wall.

4. The packaging container according to claim 3, wherein: The curled portion of the container body and the curled portion of the second portion of the end insert travel further back toward the first end of the container space.

5. The packaging container according to claim 1, wherein: The curled portion of the container body and the second portion of the end insert are curled at an angle exceeding 180 degrees from the container wall.

6. The packaging container according to claim 4, wherein: The curled portion of the container body and the second portion of the end insert are curled at an angle exceeding 270 degrees from the container wall.

7. The packaging container according to claim 5, wherein: The container body and the second portion of the end insert are curled from the container wall at an angle exceeding 360 degrees.

8. The packaging container according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein The first portion of the end insert is adapted to deform to provide suspension for one or more items in the container.

9. The packaging container according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: The first portion of the end insert is adapted to deform to provide motion damping for one or more items in the container.

10. The packaging container according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein The first portion of the end insert is adapted to deform so as to provide a reaction force to resist a force applied to the end insert by one or more items in the container.

11. The packaging container according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein: The first portion of the end insert is adapted to deform to provide a reaction force against a force applied to the end insert by one or more items in the container, the reaction force being selected to resist movement of an item moving against the end insert.

12. The packaging container according to claim 11, wherein The movement is caused by one or more objects being placed into the container space.

13. The packaging container according to claim 12, wherein: The movement is that caused by vibration of the item during transportation.

14. The packaging container according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein The end insert is adapted to provide dampening of movement and / or vibration of one or more items in the container space.

15. An apparatus for manufacturing a packaging container, comprising: a mandrel capable of mounting a container wall portion formed of a flexible elastic sheet material, the container wall portion providing a container wall defining a container space; as well as a support member located on the mandrel for a container end formed from a piece of flexible, resilient material, the end portion having a first portion capable of terminating the container space and having a second portion arranged as a wall insertable into the container wall proximate a first end of the container space when the wall is on the support member, wherein the support member is arranged to position the end portion in the container wall at the first end of the container space to terminate the container space; A tool is provided which is capable of curling the container wall at the first end of the container space and curling the second portion of the end portion to be arranged within a roll defined by the curled portion of the container wall portion.

16. The device according to claim 15, wherein: The tool defines a cavity having an end, the container wall abutting against the end at the first end of the container space, and the second portion of the terminal portion to curl them.

17. The apparatus according to claim 15 or 16, wherein: The tool defines a tapered cavity.

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