Packaging container

Abstract

The utility model relates to 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

[0001] The present utility model is a divisional application of the application with the application date of February 20, 2024, the application number of 202420314936.0, and the name of "Packaging container and equipment for manufacturing packaging container". TECHNICAL FIELD

[0002] The present utility model relates to improvements in or relating to packaging containers (such as tube packaging), methods of manufacturing packaging containers, and equipment for manufacturing packaging containers. BACKGROUND

[0003] An example of conventional packaging provides a container defined by a wall which is generally terminated near the base of the container by a disc-shaped element of material which spans 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 which spans the interior of the wall.

[0004] Generally, this type of packaging is manufactured by providing a wall container, positioning a disc-shaped element which spans 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.

[0005] The different steps involved in the manufacture of this type of packaging are labor-intensive and time-consuming, as known to the reader.

[0006] As known to the reader, the use of a bead of glue to attach a disc-shaped element to a container wall presents different limitations and technical problems.

[0007] It would therefore be beneficial to improve the packaging and / or manufacturing process of these products, which can solve any or all of the above problems, or at least provide the public with an alternative choice. SUMMARY

[0008] In one aspect, the present utility model provides a packaging container formed from one or more pieces of flexible, resilient material, the packaging container comprising:

[0009] a container body formed from one piece of flexible, resilient material and providing a container wall defining a container space; and

[0010] an end insert formed from one piece of flexible, resilient material, the end insert having a first portion which is able to terminate the container space, and the end insert having a second portion which is able to position the first portion to terminate a first end of the container space;

[0011] wherein the container body has a curled portion arranged in a curl which initially travels inwardly towards a central axis of the container space and then travels towards the second end or away from the first end of the container space,

[0012] wherein the end insert has a curled portion arranged in a scroll that initially travels inwardly towards a central axis of the container space and then travels towards the second end or away from the first end of the container space, and wherein the scroll of the second portion of the end insert is arranged within the scroll of the container wall portion.

[0013] The curled portion of the end insert, which can be formed of a flexible elastic material, is attached to the container body by the curled portion of the container wall portion, which is also formed of a flexible elastic material.

[0014] The curled portion of the container body and the curled portion of the second portion of the end insert can further travel outwardly towards the container wall.

[0015] The curled portion of the container body and the curled portion of the second portion of the end insert can further travel back towards the first end of the container space.

[0016] The curled portion of the container body and the second portion of the end insert can be curled from the container wall through an angle of more than 180 degrees.

[0017] The curled portion of the container body and the second portion of the end insert can be curled from the container wall through an angle of more than 270 degrees.

[0018] The curled portion of the container wall portion and the second portion of the end portion can be curled from the container wall through an angle of more than 360 degrees.

[0019] The first portion of the end insert can be a support element shaped to support one or more items in the container space.

[0020] The first portion of the end insert can be adapted to deform in order to provide motion damping for one or more items in the container. Such adaptation can be a first portion having a shape that deforms the sheet material of the end insert to dissipate energy.

[0021] The first portion of the end insert can be adapted to deform in order to provide a counter force to resist a force exerted by one or more items in the container to the end insert.

[0022] The first portion of the end insert can be adapted to deform in order to provide a counter force to resist a force exerted by one or more items in the container to the end insert, the counter force being selected to impede movement of an item moving against the end insert.

[0023] The first portion of the end insert is adapted to deform in order to provide a counter force to resist a force exerted by one or more items in the container to the end insert, the counter force being selected to impede movement of an item moving against the end insert.

[0024] The movement can be movement caused by one or more items being placed into the container space.

[0025] The movement is movement caused by vibration of the items during transport.

[0026] The end insert can be adapted to provide dampening of movement and / or vibration of one or more items in the container space.

[0027] The container package has a container space which can be terminated with an end insert connected to the container body.

[0028] The container package has a container space which can be terminated with an end insert connected to the container body and which also provides suspension for items in the container space. Here, "suspension" is a biasing and / or shock absorbing capability. The impact absorption can be dampening. In one example, the suspension can prevent a moving item from applying force to a substrate on which the container is resting, to prevent damage to the item, such as bruising of fruit.

[0029] Another aspect of the present invention provides an apparatus for manufacturing a packaging container, the apparatus comprising:

[0030] a mandrel which is mountable with a container wall portion formed from a flexible resilient sheet, the container wall portion providing a container wall defining a container space; and

[0031] a support on the mandrel for a container end portion formed from a sheet of flexible resilient material, the end portion having a first portion which is capable of terminating the container space and having a second portion which is arranged as a wall, the wall being capable of being inserted into the container wall adjacent a first end of the container space when on the support, wherein the support is arranged to position the end portion in the container wall at the first end of the container space to terminate the container space;

[0032] a tool which is capable of crimping the container wall at the first end of the container space and crimping the second portion of the end portion to be arranged within a roll defined by the crimped portion of the container wall portion.

[0033] The tool can define a cavity having an end against which the container wall is crimped at the first end of the container space and the second portion of the end portion.

[0034] The tool can define a tapered cavity.

[0035] The apparatus can comprise an actuator which is operable to move the mandrel relative to the tool.

[0036] A packaging container comprising:

[0037] a container wall arranged to define a prismatic container space for one or more articles;

[0038] a support element arranged to support an article in the container space adjacent an end of the container wall;

[0039] the support element is arranged to deform under a force from the one or more articles.

[0040] The packaging container can comprise any of the features of any of the paragraphs above.

[0041] The support element can be arranged to support the one or more articles and to deform under a static force from the one or more articles.

[0042] The support element can be arranged to support the one or more articles and to deform under a weight of the one or more articles.

[0043] The support element can be arranged to support the one or more articles and to deform under a force having a component caused by momentum of the one or more articles.

[0044] The force can be characterised by a vibration of the one or more articles.

[0045] The momentum can be characterised by one or more articles being loaded into the container space.

[0046] The momentum can be characterised by one or more articles being dropped into the container space.

[0047] The support element can be arranged to deform under a dynamic load expected during loading of the article into the container space by dropping the article onto a support surface.

[0048] The support element is arranged to deform under a dynamic load expected during transport of the container with the contained articles.

[0049] The support element is arranged to provide an impact under deformation to resist movement of the articles causing a dynamic load to prevent impact of the support element under deformation and a surface of the support container wall.

[0050] The support element can comprise one or more support features capable of supporting against a surface supporting the packaging container to resist movement of the one or more articles.

[0051] The support element is shaped and positioned to terminate the container space at one end.

[0052] The support element has a convex shape relative to the container space.

[0053] The support element can be a first portion of an end insert of any of the paragraphs above.

[0054] The support element can be arranged to deform in order to maintain contact with the one or more articles within a range of deformations of the support element caused by the one or more articles.

[0055] The range of deformations can be approximately 0.5 centimetres.

[0056] The range of movement can be approximately 1 centimetre.

[0057] The range of deformations is approximately 2 centimetres.

[0058] The range of movement can be in the range of 1 centimetre to 2 centimetres.

[0059] The convex shape can be elliptical.

[0060] The convex shape can 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.

[0061] The support element can be arranged to deform with a first modulus of strain for smaller deformations and a second modulus of strain for larger deformations, wherein the second modulus is higher than the first modulus.

[0062] The support element can be arranged to provide damping for the moving articles.

[0063] The support element end can be provided as a first portion of an end insert, the first portion of the end insert being attached to a wall of a container body section of the tube wall adjacent to one end of the container region, the section of the container wall being arranged in a first roll travelling back towards one end of the container space away from the terminal end, and wherein a second portion of the end insert is arranged in a second roll arranged within the first roll for attaching the end insert to the container wall.

[0064] The first roll can initially extend inwards towards the container space.

[0065] The second portion of the end insert can define a prism having a cross section complementary to a cross section of a prismatic container region defined by the wall provided by the container body for the second portion of the end insert to be received within the prismatic container region.

[0066] The element can be formed from a piece of material.

[0067] The end insert can be formed from a piece of material to have an attachment portion defining a prism, wherein the attachment portion is separated from the piece of material at a cut-out in the attachment portion, the cut-out extending around a perimeter of the prism.

[0068] As used herein, the term "crimped" and the like can be intended to describe a static shape after manufacture or to describe a dynamic process of crimping during manufacture.

[0069] As used herein, the term crimped "progress" can be intended to describe a static shape or a dynamic process of crimping or to describe a dynamic process of crimping during manufacture.

[0070] As used herein, the term "element" is intended to be used broadly to describe a mechanical element or component.

[0071] Further aspects include any combination of the features described in any of the paragraphs above. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS

[0072] Additional and further aspects of the present application will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the description that follows, which is merely exemplar in nature. It is to be understood that numerous variations of the embodiments described can be made and fall within the scope of the application, based upon the teachings herein and the knowledge of those skilled in the art, without departing from the true spirit and nature of the present application.

[0073] Figure 1 A cross-sectional side view of a base portion of a packaging container according to an embodiment of the present application is shown;

[0074] Figure 2 A cross-sectional side view of a portion of a tube body of a packaging container of Figure 1 is shown, with an end insert received within the tube body prior to attachment;

[0075] Figure 3 A close-up cross-sectional side view of a portion of a packaging is shown, with Figure 2 an end insert of attached to a tube body;

[0076] Figure 4 A close-up cross-sectional side view of a portion of a tube packaging is shown, with Figures 1 to 3 the initial step in the manufacturing process of the tube packaging is shown, with the position of the tube body showing Figure 3 a closer view of a mandrel used in the process of supporting the tube wall and end insert; and

[0077] Figure 5 A closer view of a mandrel used in the process of supporting the tube wall and end insert of Figure 3 is shown; and

[0078] Figure 6 A close-up cross-sectional side view of a portion of a tube packaging is shown, with Figure 4 a subsequent step in the process is shown, with the insert attached to the tube body;

[0079] Figure 7 A device operable to form a base of a tube packaging is shown;

[0080] Figure 8 A view showing the base portion closer to the device is provided;

[0081] Figure 9 A bottom plan view of the cutting head is shown;

[0082] Figure 10 A side view of a workstation is shown, illustrating the equipment used to assemble the tube body and base to provide tube packaging.

[0083] Figure 11 A top plan view of the equipment used to form the end fittings of the tubular package is shown;

[0084] Figures 12 to 14 This invention illustrates an embodiment of a tool for attaching a base to a tube body;

[0085] Figures 15 to 17 The first part of the mold used to manufacture the base is shown;

[0086] Figures 18 to 20 The second part of the mold used to manufacture the base is shown;

[0087] Figures 21 to 23 The coiled shape for attaching the end insert to the container body is schematically shown;

[0088] Figure 24 A side view of an end insert according to another embodiment of the present invention is shown;

[0089] Figure 25 It shows that according to Figure 24 A side view of the end insert of an embodiment deformed by an article in use; and

[0090] Figure 26 This shows the further deformation caused by the object. Figure 25 Side view of the end insert;

[0091] Figures 27 to 30 A plan view, side view, top view and bottom perspective view of an end insert according to another embodiment of the present invention are shown;

[0092] Figures 31 to 34 A plan view, side view, top view, and bottom perspective view of an end insert according to another embodiment of the present invention are shown; and

[0093] Figures 35 to 38 A plan view, side view, top view, and bottom perspective view of the end insert according to an additional embodiment of the present invention are shown.

[0094] Further aspects of the present utility model will become apparent from the following description of this utility model by way of example only. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0095] Figure 1 A base section 1 of a packaging container according to an embodiment of the present utility model is shown.

[0096] The packaging has a body component 2 which provides a wall 3 which defines a prismatic space 4 for containing goods or articles to be packaged. This space 4 can be referred to herein as a container space.

[0097] 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 in the alternative to a tube, such as to define a square cross-section or other cross-section.

[0098] Figure 1 An end insert 5 is shown which provides an end element 6 or stop at substantially the end of the body 2 within the wall 3 to define, close or terminate the container space 4.

[0099] When the packaging is in use, the tube wall 3 defines a container space for the articles 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.

[0100] During the manufacturing regime 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 which is a prism which can be received or inserted into the end of the container space. In this case, the prism is a cylinder and in particular a short cylinder which is closed at one end by the end element 6.

[0101] The end insert 5 has two parts. The first part of the end insert 5 is the end element 6 or stop which terminates the container space 4. The second part of the end insert is the adjunct portion 7 which is adjunct to the tube wall to locate and / or secure the end element 6 in the tube body so as to terminate the container space 4.

[0102] Figure 2 A tube body 3 is shown with an end insert 5 which is received in the tube body prior to adjunct. Figure 2The gap or spacing between the tube wall 3 and the end insert 5 shown in the middle only shows these parts as separate, although in this embodiment the insert 5 is received in the tube body 3 with a small tolerance. Generally, the tolerance is such that the end insert 5 fits tightly, but the end insert can be inserted with minimal force, such as under the weight of the end element into the inverted wall 3.

[0103] Figure 2 A first part 6 of the end insert 5 is shown as an end element extending across the space within the tube body. Figure 2 A second part 7 of the insert 5 is also shown, which is attached to the wall 3 to position and / or secure the end element 6 within the tube body. The second part 7 defines a wall section that imparts a prismatic shape to the end insert that is complementary to the prismatic cross-section of the tube body at an end portion 8 of the wall 3. The complementary shape allows the insert to fit within the wall.

[0104] 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 The prisms shown in cross-section in the middle.

[0105] The first part of the end element is an end element 5, stop or stopper, which terminates the container space. The end element is positioned within the tube wall by a second part that is formed as a wall that fits within 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 prior to the attachment step shown below.

[0106] Figure 3 A close-up, cut-away side view of the packaging of Figure 1 is shown at the end where the end insert 5 is attached to the wall 3. The attachment portion 8 of the body 2 is shown arranged or formed in a crimped shape. The attachment portion is formed from an end portion of the wall body 2. The attachment portion 7 of the insert 5 is shown formed in a shape that is 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 in a crimped configuration are shown to be arranged as a double layer crimped structure. A first outer layer 9 is provided by the end portion 8 of the tube body 2, and a second inner layer 10 is provided by the attachment portion 7 of the end insert 5. The second layer 10 shown is crimped within or inside the first layer 9. In this embodiment, the crimping followed by the end portion 8 of the wall initially travels towards the central axis (not shown) of the prismatic container space 4, and then travels back towards the end of the container space 4 away from the end portion 8 of the wall. The crimping followed by the attachment portion of the end insert is within the crimping of the end portion 8 of the body. Here, the term travels refers to describing the static crimped shape.

[0107] Figure 4Steps in the manufacture of a packaging container according to an embodiment of the present utility model are shown. In Figure 4 Shown in are bodies 103a-d, which are open-ended tubes referred to herein as tube bodies. The bodies 103 of this embodiment have Figure 1 the features of the body 2 of the embodiment of FIG. 1, albeit differing in size. In this embodiment, the walls of the body 2 define a circular prismatic tube.

[0108] In Figure 4 also shown are end inserts 105a-c adapted to define, terminate, or close the end of each respective tube 103. The end inserts 105 of this embodiment have Figure 1 the features of the end insert 5 of the embodiment of FIG. 1, albeit differing in size, but the end inserts.

[0109] The bodies 103 are similar to the walls 3 of the embodiment of FIG. 1, except that they do not yet have end portions curled to accommodate the plurality of end inserts 105. Figure 3

[0110] Also shown is a series of mandrels cooperating with the tube bodies 103. Figure 4 In a step of the method shown, an end insert is inserted into the upper end of a tube body 103, as shown in

[0111] and pushed in to abut the upper support 125. In this example, the end insert 105 rests on the upper support 125. Figure 1 As shown in

[0112] the mandrels 104a, 104d are cooperating with the tube bodies 103 only, exposing the upper support 125. The mandrel 104b is in the process of providing the end insert 105b. Figure 4 In other examples, the end inserts can be a tight friction fit in the tube bodies, and the upper support can be used only to position the end inserts 105.

[0113] In other examples, the end inserts can have a tolerance that allows the end insert to move into the tube 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]

[0115] ​The end insert 105c of the mandrel 104c is fitted to the end of the tube body and abuts against the upper support 125c. As shown, due to the position of the lower support for a given length of tube body, the upper end of the end insert is flush with the upper end of the tube body. Although shown as the upper ends of the end insert and tube body, these refer to the bottom of the package, including the tube body and the end insert, in use, i.e., when in use. In use, the end insert will define or close the bottom of the tube body and the tube package.

[0116] Figure 4 A mobile platform 110 is also shown, on which the mandrel is mounted. The mobile platform is capable of moving the mandrel to a workstation for further manufacturing steps described and illustrated below.

[0117] Figure 5 A tube already placed on a mandrel 120 is shown. The mandrel 120 has a base 121 mounted on a platform or worktable 110. In this example, the worktable is rotatable to allow the mandrel to engage with various manufacturing workstations. Figure 5 (Not shown in the figure, but shown in the figure below) Aligned rotary table.

[0118] The mandrel 120 has a lower support 122 for the tube body 103, which supports 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 is aligned flush with the upper end of the end insert and wall provided by the body 103. In this embodiment, the relative position of the lower support relative to the upper support is adjusted for a given length of wall and attachment portion of the end insert.

[0119] like Figure 5 As shown, the tube body 103 is inverted compared to its intended use. (As...) Figure 5 The upper end of the tube shown 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 a 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 mounting the tube on a 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, the tube support flange serving as a support for the tube 103. The tapering portion aligns the body 103 with the mandrel, even if it simply falls onto the mandrel, to facilitate the speed of the step of mounting the body 103 to the mandrel and to minimize any labor involved. The tube support flange 124 may be referred to herein as a mandrel flange or support flange.

[0120] As shown in the figure, the mandrel 122 has an upper support 125. This 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 post 126, which is attached to the base, to provide structural support for the rest of the mandrel.

[0121] The distance between the flange of the pipe support member and the upper support member 125, as well as the length of the pipe body, determine the distance 127 that the pipe body 103 extends above the upper support member 125.

[0122] In this example, the height of the lower support 122 relative to the mandrel column is adjustable. This allows a given length of tube body to extend a certain distance above the upper support 125.

[0123] In various embodiments, the tube body 103 mounted on the mandrel rests on a lower support flange located at a point on the mandrel post that allows the tube body to extend a selected length above the upper support.

[0124] exist Figure 5 In one embodiment, the end insert is shown abutting against the upper support, which positions the end insert such that the top of the end insert (as shown) is adjacent to the end of the tube body. In an alternative embodiment, as shown, the upper end of the end insert and the upper end of the tube body may not be flush or aligned.

[0125] Figure 6 A series of mandrels 103e and 103h are shown, on which tube bodies 103e to 103h and end inserts 105e to 103h are mounted. In this embodiment, when the insert is positioned by an upper support and the tube body is positioned by a tube body support, the method involves attaching the end insert to the tube body at an assumed position relative to the tube body. The attached end insert provides an attached lower element for the receiving space provided by the tube.

[0126] In the illustrated embodiment, the upper portion of the tube body and the end insert (as shown) is rolled up or curled to attach the end insert to a suitable position within the tube body. In this example, this position is determined by the position of the lower support relative to the upper support and the length of the tube body.

[0127] In this embodiment, the tube body and end inserts are coiled by heating the ends and pressing them into a cavity (not shown). In this embodiment, the V-shaped cavity is tapered. In this example, the coiling is inward toward the center of the tube and returns 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...Figure 6 The end of the tube body and the end insert form a double layer crimp shape. The crimped end forms a base for the tube.

[0128] In one example, the cavity is provided by a tool that provides a cavity in the metal disc. In one example, the metal is brass. In some examples, heating is by a heating element in contact with the tube.

[0129] In Figure 5 In the example shown, a work station 127 heats the end of the tube body and the end insert (hereinafter referred to as the end). In this example, the heating element is moved relatively towards the mandrel to bring the end into contact with the heating element. In this example, the work station provides a metal tool having a cavity that tapers from a diameter that matches, or is wider than, the tube body, towards a surface within the cavity that is transverse, or substantially perpendicular, to the surface of the tube body. As the tool with the cavity is moved down, the heated end is pushed inwardly by the taper until it abuts the perpendicular surface which forces it away from the perpendicular surface and back towards the end of the tube body opposite the heated tube end.

[0130] The crimped end forms a double layer rounded or crimped end for the tube body that seats 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 crimped end seats the end insert in place. The reader will appreciate that this seating means allows the flexible, resilient wall and end insert to be seated by their shape alone and can allow them to remain seated while remaining flexible and resilient.

[0131] In some alternative embodiments, the heating and crimping of the end also incorporates the end insert into the tube body. Different alternative embodiments can use different combinations of seating by shape or incorporation.

[0132] A moving platform on which the mandrel is mounted is able to move to move the mandrel with the tube body and end insert from a work station on which the tube body is placed to a work station in which the end insert is added to the crimped end. The moving platform is also able to move the tube body and end insert to a work station in which the end insert is seated to the tube body.

[0133] Figure 7 A device 200 is shown that is operable to provide end inserts having a base shape 201 for tube packaging. The end inserts bound 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.

[0134] As Figure 7A piece of material 202 is shown having a set of base shapes formed therein. In this embodiment, the bases are formed by heating the piece of material 202 and clamping the piece of material between tools to form the shape of the base or end insert for the tube package. The shapes in the piece of material are connected by the remaining portion of the piece of material between the base shapes. The remaining portion of the piece of material defines a plane in addition to the base shapes. The base shapes 201 formed from the piece of material need to be separated from the remaining portion of the piece of material to be used as a base for a tube package.

[0135] The piece of material 202 is shown on a support 203.

[0136] In this embodiment, the first and second actuators are arranged to move the separation device 206 relative to the support 203 and the piece of material 202 in a horizontal plane.

[0137] The first base sheet actuator 204 is operable to translate the separation device 206 relative to the support 203 on a first axis. The second base sheet actuator 205 is operable to translate the separation device 206 relative to the support 203 on a second axis.

[0138] Figure 7 The base separation apparatus 206 is shown. The base separation apparatus is operable to separate the base shapes 201 formed in the piece of material from the piece of material 202. The base separation apparatus can be arranged in alignment in a horizontal plane by movement of the first and second translators, as shown, with any base shapes formed in the piece of material. The base separation apparatus 206 is mounted on a vertical actuator 207 which is operable to vertically translate or move the cutting apparatus relative to the aligned base shapes 201.

[0139] The piece of material 202 is shown having the base shapes 201 arranged concave upward as shown. The support of this embodiment has cylindrical cavities to receive the base shapes and can be identified as a clamp. In this example, the clamp has holes formed in a plate of support material to provide the cavities.

[0140] Figure 8 A closer view of the base separation apparatus 206 is shown. As shown, the base separation apparatus has a mount 210 to mount it to the vertical actuator. The base separation apparatus has a motor 211 and a cutting head 212.

[0141] Figure 9 A bottom side plan view of the cutting head 212 is shown. This view is from below as shown in Figure 7 and Figure 8 .

[0142] As Figure 9The cutting head 212 is shown with a blade seat 213 and a mounted blade 214. The blade of the present embodiment is adapted to pierce the base shape and has a point 215 extending from the portion providing the mount 213. In this case, the piercing is arranged by the blade moving outward from within the concave base shape 201. The blade is also adapted to cut the base shape at the circumference of the wall formed by the base shape to separate the base from the remainder of the sheet material and provide an end insert for the container package. The blade seat allows adjustment of the position of the blade to adjust how far the point 215 extends.

[0143] In the present embodiment, the base separator actuator is operable to move the base separator so that the portion of the cutting head 212 mounting the blade is received in the upwardly concave base shape. In the present embodiment, the base separator 206 is able to move the cutting head so that the blade 214 pierces the sheet material at the base shape 201 out of the plane of the remainder of the sheet material. In the present embodiment, the blade pierces the base shape near the circumference of the concave shape of the base shape. One example base shape has a base portion arranged to terminate a tube container and has a side wall arranged parallel with the wall of the tube when the base is inserted into the tube package. In this example, the base separator apparatus is operable to make a 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 that fits within the cylinder of the tube body and a cut in the wall separates the base shape from the sheet material.

[0144] Figure 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 the present embodiment, the mandrel 222 is movable to translate between this workstation and other workstations of the apparatus 221.

[0145] In the present example, the mandrel 222 has a post on which the tube body 223 can fit. Figure 10 The workstation shown in the middle is operable to position the base 221 in the tube body 223 before the base is attached, thereby providing a base end to the tube. In the present 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 the present embodiment, the base 221 is shaped to have a wall defining a prism that is complementary to the prism space defined by the wall of the tube body 223.

[0146] Figure 10The mandrel 222 shown in the middle has been fitted 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. As Figure 10 shown, the upper support is arranged at a height such 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 neither a wall of the base nor a wall of the tube body extending beyond the other.

[0147] Figure 11 A top plan view of an apparatus 230 for forming a terminal tube for a tube package is shown. In this embodiment, the tube package is provided by a terminal tube and a lid or cap (not shown). In this example, the terminal tube is provided by a tube wall, or body, an end insert, or base.

[0148] A first work station 231 is operable to punch holes (not shown) in the wall of the tube body at an end distal from the end terminated by the base. In use, the holes will be located at the upper end of the tube package. The holes are engaged in use by a protrusion (not shown) formed in the lid.

[0149] As Figure 11 shown, passing left to right across the page, the apparatus 230 has five mandrel actuators 232 to 236 each operable to move a mandrel 237 to 241 with a base fitted.

[0150] Figure 11 A first ancillary work station 242 is shown provided for each mandrel actuator 232. The first ancillary work station 242 is shown with a tool which defines a heated cavity. The tool of the first ancillary work station 242 can 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 which softens and becomes pliable when heated.

[0151] The first ancillary work station 242 is operable to move the hot tool down, or as shown into the page, on the tubes and fitted bases to heat the end of each tube and fitted base.

[0152] The second ancillary work station 243 is shown with a tool which is defined as a cavity which is cooler than the heated cavity. The tool of the second ancillary work station can be referred to as a cold tool. In this embodiment, the cooler cavity is at a temperature selected for the material of the tube body and end insert which sets the material to a final shape or configuration. In this embodiment, the cooler cavity is at room temperature.

[0153] The first ancillary work station 242 is operable to move the hot cavity down to the end of each tube and fitted base asFigure 11 The page shown, and over the tube body and base insert, to heat the tube body and end insert. In this embodiment, the end of the wall defined by the tube body and end insert is received in a cavity of the hot tool or heating tool to be heated and made pliable.

[0154] The second auxiliary station is operable to move the cold cavity down to Figure 11 The page shown, and over the tube body and base insert. In this embodiment, the end of the wall defined by the tube body and end insert is received in a cavity of the cold tool.

[0155] The hot tool and 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 the end insert is attached to the tube body. In this example, the shape is a two layer curl, one layer provided by the tube wall and the other layer provided by the wall of the base.

[0156] For example, the mandrel actuator 232 is operable to translate the mandrel with the tube body and insert to the first auxiliary station, and then to the second auxiliary station to allow the end insert to be attached to the tube body.

[0157] Figures 12 to 14 A tool 250 is shown that is used to attach an end insert to a tube body of various embodiments of the present application described herein.

[0158] Figure 12 A plan view of the tool is shown.

[0159] Figure 13 A cutaway elevation view of the tool is shown. Figures 7 to 11 The stations of the embodiment are operable to move the tool vertically or as Figure 13 shown on the page up and down to move the tool relative to the tube body. In other embodiments, the mandrel is movable.

[0160] Figure 13 A tube body 223 is also shown in an entry position. For clarity, a base or end insert to be assembled into the tube body is omitted from Figure 13 As shown, the tool 250 defines a cavity 252 on the underside. In this example, the cavity 252 shown has 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 (the upper end as shown) that points inwardly toward the interior of the cavity and toward the center of the tube body.

[0161] Figure 14A closer cut-away elevation view of a portion of the tool 250 to show the shape of the cavity provided by the tool. As shown Figure 14 The cavity 252 of this embodiment has a periphery 253 at the open end 254 of the cavity which is wider than the tube body and the end insert received in the tube body. As shown in this embodiment, the cavity has a periphery wall 255 which tapers inwards and upwards from the periphery of the open end. Figure 14 The cavity of the embodiment has an end or end 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) which terminates the tube package and parallel to the leading edge 257 of the tube body. As shown Figure 14 A radius 258 is formed between the cavity wall 255 and the cavity tip 256. In this embodiment, the radius extends beyond the cavity tip, or as shown, beyond the cavity tip. In alternative embodiments, the radius 258 can not extend beyond the cavity tip.

[0162] The action of the hot and cold pipes is to curl the end of the tube body proximate to the end insert to affix 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 an end intended to be proximate to the base of the package container.

[0163] The process of manufacturing an end insert, base or base tip for a tube package is shown as follows.

[0164] In a first step S3-1, a set of base shapes 201 are formed in a sheet of material.

[0165] In a second step S3-2, the sheet of material in which the base shapes are formed is placed on the clamps 203 of the apparatus shown in Figure 7 In this embodiment, the base shapes are concave upwards. This step typically involves forming each base shape one after the other.

[0166] In a third step S3-3, the base separating apparatus is moved into position above the base shape by the actuators 205, 206 and 207.

[0167] In a fourth step S3-4, the blade 215 is forced through the side wall of the base shape and moved around the wall so as to separate the base shape from the remainder of the sheet of material. Separation by this method does not leave a residual flange formed on the wall of the base shape. This avoids any flange which would impede the curling operation for affixing the base to the tube body. The base shape separated from the remainder of the sheet material provides an end insert such as the end insert 5 of one embodiment shown in Figure 1

[0168] ​Figures 15 to 17 A first part 260 of a moulding tool for manufacturing a base or end insert is shown. Figures 18 to 20 A second part 261 complementary to part 260 is shown. Typically, the sheet material is heated and then clamped between the two parts 260 and 261 shown. The first part 260 defines a male shape 262 and is used to form a female shape in the sheet material. In this embodiment, the male shape is an oval shape.

[0169] The perimeter of the male region 262 of the first part is an edge 263 above a wall 264.

[0170] Figures 18 to 20 The second part 270 shown has a recessed cavity 271 for forming a male portion of the base shape. In this particular embodiment, the material heated and clamped between the first part 260 and the second part 270 forms a generally dome shape. The dome is able to deform to allow the base to act as a spring or biasing element to absorb momentum and / or vibration and / or impact of an item within the container. Alternative base shapes are used in alternative embodiments.

[0171] At the perimeter of the female region 271 of the second part 270 is an annular region 272 which protrudes from the part and is arranged to be complementary in shape to Figures 18 to 20 the edge of the part. In use, material is clamped between the edge and the annular region and edge to form the base shape. Figures 15 to 17

[0172] The second part shown has a hole 273 and recess 274 to facilitate connection to other parts of the apparatus (not shown), such as an actuator or mounting for clamping operations. Figures 17 to 20 Reference will be made to

[0173] Further shown is a working mechanism to attach an end insert to a container wall. Figures 21 to 23

[0174] A cross section of a container wall portion at a first end of a container space is shown, as is a second attached portion of an end insert, both being convolutions. The second attached portion of the end insert is arranged in a convolution within a convolution of a section of the container wall portion. In this example, the convolution has travelled towards a central axis of a prismatic container space defined by the wall, and further towards a second end of the container space. As shown, the convolution has travelled from a line formed by a side of the wall or central axis of the container space through an angle A and greater than 180 degrees. Figure 21

[0175] Figure 22 ​A cross section of the container wall portion at the first end of the container space is shown, as is the second appendage of the end insert that is also crimped. The second appendage of the end insert is arranged in a convolution within the convolution of the section of the container wall portion. In this example, the convolution has traveled toward the central axis of the prismatic container space defined by the wall, and further toward the second end of the container space, and further again toward the container wall, and still further back toward the first end of the container space. As shown, the convolution has extended from the line formed by one side of the wall or the central axis of the container space through an angle B and greater than 270 degrees.

[0176] Figure 23 A cross section of the container wall portion at the first end of the container space is shown, as is the second appendage of the end insert that is also crimped. The second appendage of the end insert is arranged in a convolution within the convolution of the section of the container wall portion. In this example, the convolution has traveled toward the central axis of the prismatic container space defined by the wall, and further toward the second end of the container space, and further again toward the container wall, and still further back toward the first end of the container space. As shown, the convolution has extended from the line formed by one side of the wall or the central axis of the container space through an angle B and greater than 270 degrees.

[0177] In the process of manufacturing the package, a convolution 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 appendage of the end insert against a tool. In some embodiments, the container body and end insert are forced against a face of a cavity in a finishing tool. In other embodiments, the container body and end insert are forced against a radius formed in the tool.

[0178] A crimped container wall with an end insert second portion formed from a flexible and elastic sheet material provides a flexible, elastic appendage of the end insert, the end insert second portion also formed from a flexible convolution arranged in the convolution. The appendage provided relies only on the elastic material to maintain its shape while allowing the material to bend. Thus, embodiments of the present invention provide a container package that is generally flexible and elastic. In particular, embodiments of the present invention provide a container package with a flexible and elastic appendage of the end, end insert, or end. A packaging container formed from a flexible sheet material is generally flexible and elastic.

[0179] Figure 24 A container 201 is shown. The container 201 has a wall 202 that defines a container space 203 to contain one or more articles (204). The container 201 has an end 205. The end 205 has an end insert 206. The end insert 206 has a first portion 207 and a second portion 208. The first portion 207 is formed from a flexible sheet material. The second portion 208 is formed from a flexible sheet material. The second portion 208 is arranged in a convolution within the convolution of the first portion 207. The first portion 207 is arranged in a convolution within the convolution of the second portion 208. Figure 1A container (not shown in this figure) is shown. In this example, the container is a packaging item adapted to package an item contained therein. In this example, the item is fruit. In other examples, the item can be any item that the reader knows that the container is adapted to contain. Typically, the item has a size that fits in the container space in the stack.

[0180] The container has a support element 204 for supporting the contained item. The support element supports the item within the container wall. Figure 24 The base end of the container is shown, and the support element supports the item to terminate the base end of the container region to prevent the item from flowing out of the base end of the container space.

[0181] Figure 24 As shown in this figure, 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 proximate the perimeter of the container wall 202 relative to the center portion. This profile allows the support element to deform near the center under a given force, but to deform toward the perimeter under a greater force. In some embodiments, the horizontal and relatively vertical portions provide a graded modulus of strain in response to stress provided by one or more items. The stress can be provided by the static weight of the item. More particularly, the stress has a dynamic component provided by the item moving within the container space. For example, the item can fall on the support element. Also for example, the item can vibrate or jostle during transport. In some embodiments, the graded modulus of deformation allows a range of deformations under a given force provided by the item, where the force that causes the initial deformation is less than the force required to cause continued deformation. The initial deformation occurs primarily in the horizontal portion. Continued deformation also requires deformation of the relatively vertical portion of the support element.

[0182] In the illustrated embodiment, the support element is resilient and provides an opposing force to the items. This can be a biasing force. In some embodiments, the support element acts as a spring. In different embodiments, the support element acts as a biasing element so as to bias the items away from the base end of the container region.

[0183] In some embodiments, the support element has an elliptical profile.

[0184] In some embodiments, the support element has a generally elliptical profile.

[0185] In some embodiments, the support element has a profile of a sphere.

[0186] In some embodiments, the support element has a profile of a generally semi-sphere.

[0187] Figure 24A support element is shown as an end portion of a container, the support element having a first portion 207 that terminates at the container space 203 and a second portion that is affixed to the container wall 2 to locate the end portion.

[0188] As shown, the end portion or support element is located adjacent an end of the container wall 202.

[0189] Figure 24 An end or container wall is shown that provides a base for the container.

[0190] In Figure 1 In the embodiment shown, the second portion of the end portion has a shape that is complementary to the container wall. In this embodiment, the second portion is affixed to the container wall by an end of the container wall, and the second portion of the end portion is curled inwardly toward the central axis of the container space and upwardly away from the end of the container adjacent the end portion. As Figure 24 shown, this is inwardly and upwardly.

[0191] In Figure 24 the embodiment shown, the support element is vacuum formed.

[0192] Figure 24 The support element of the embodiment of

[0193] The support element of this embodiment is formed from a sheet of material to have an affixed 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 the same cross section as the container shape, but can have a smaller width to provide a tolerance for the support element to be received within the container wall.

[0194] In this embodiment, the affixed portion is separated from the sheet of material at a cutout in the affixed portion. The cutout extends around the perimeter of the prism. This eliminates any flanges that can be left by the punch moving longitudinally to the prism around the perimeter of the prism, or as Figure 24 shown, downwardly.

[0195] In this example, the support element is formed from a sheet of material using a mold that is oriented horizontally so as to form a support element having a vertical wall that defines the prism and then separating the support element from the rest of the sheet of material with a cutout made around the vertical wall. In other examples, the mold can not be oriented horizontally and the orientation of the other components and steps described are adjusted accordingly.

[0196] Figure 25 A container is shown according to the embodiment of Figure 1 where the support element supports an item 210. Figure 25A central portion of the support element is shown that deforms by the article and provides a reaction force to support the article. The article can be considered to be suspended. This can be suspended above a surface 211 of the support container 201. If the article 210 is moving towards the surface 11, the reaction force provided by the support element is shown in Figure 25 to have stopped this movement. In some example scenarios, the movement of the article 210 is stopped before it receives an opposite impact from the surface 211 that can damage and / or scuff the article.

[0197] Figure 25 A region within the inflection point perimeter 212 is shown that deforms concave towards the container region.

[0198] Figure 25 An article 210 is shown supported at a location adjacent to the base end of the container wall 2. Figure 2 An article 210 is shown supported at a location adjacent to the base end of the container 1.

[0199] Figure 26 A container according to embodiments of Figure 24 and Figure 25 is shown where the support element supports the article 210 where the article is further moving towards the base end of the container. This is closer to the end of the container wall 202 that provides the base.

[0200] In this example, Figure 26 the movement of the article 210 is shown stopped with a greater reaction force than in Figure 25 In this example, Figure 25 the movement of the article stopped by the support element is shown, such as a vibration. In this example, Figure 26 the movement of the article is also shown, such as when a stack of articles is placed on top of the container space.

[0201] In another example, Figure 25 the deformation before the movement is stopped is shown, and Figure 26 the article after the delay is shown.

[0202] In another example, the deformation of the portion within the inflection point perimeter that is concave and opposite to the rest of the convex support element dissipates energy and provides damping to the movement of the supported article.

[0203] In other embodiments, the thickness or any other parameter of the material shape of the support element is selected to provide damping.

[0204] In alternative embodiments, the support element can be part of an end portion of the container to terminate the container space. In these embodiments, the end portion can also have an appendage portion that is appended to the container wall to position the support element.

[0205] In alternative embodiments, the support element is a container base cap.

[0206] In alternative embodiments, the support element is appended by receiving a portion of an end portion of the container wall.

[0207] Additional and alternative embodiments will now be shown.

[0208] Different embodiments of the present invention provide container packaging that eliminates the need for adhesives.

[0209] Different embodiments of the present invention provide container packaging that eliminates the need for adhesion or cohesive forces.

[0210] Various embodiments of the present invention provide container packaging that eliminates the need for materials that rigidly maintain their shape.

[0211] Various embodiments of the present invention provide container packaging, manufacturing methods or manufacturing equipment that eliminate the need for seam clamping.

[0212] Various embodiments of the present invention provide container packaging, manufacturing methods or manufacturing equipment that allow for the manufacture of container packaging in a small number of steps.

[0213] Various embodiments of the present invention provide container packaging, manufacturing methods or manufacturing equipment that allow for the rapid and cost effective manufacture of container packaging.

[0214] In this example, the vacuum formed end insert is dimensioned to extend into the tube body in a short manner.

[0215] In alternative embodiments, the tube wall is replaced with a wall arranged in the shape of an alternative to a tube. In alternative embodiments, the tube body is replaced with a wall arranged in the shape of an alternative to a tube. Alternative shapes of the arranged wall can be any prismatic shape known to the reader that is suitable for the particular application or implementation of the present invention, which can include but is not limited to a square prism, a triangular prism, a star prism, and an oval prism.

[0216] In different embodiments, an alternative to the end element of the insert can terminate the space within the wall of the container or tube wall. In these and different other embodiments, the end element can be replaced with a closure element capable of closing all or part of the container space. In these and different other embodiments, the end element can be replaced with a termination element capable of terminating the entire or partial container space.

[0217] In various embodiments, an end portion or end insert can be affixed so as to terminate the intermediate portion of the container space. The terms "end portion" and "end insert" are used interchangeably herein. The term end insert as used in relation to packaging refers to a piece that is inserted into the container wall during the process of manufacturing the packaging.

[0218] As used herein, the term "portion" is intended to broadly refer to a part of a whole.

[0219] As used herein, the term "container" is used broadly to include any packaging that is capable of holding an article, and is not limited to containers having a lid.

[0220] The reader can identify the end element of some of the embodiments shown herein as terminating the container space at its base.

[0221] In various alternative embodiments, the container wall or similar portion described herein can not have a circular cross-section or define a cylindrical region, but can have any alternative profile and define an alternative prism known to the reader to be suitable for a given application.

[0222] The space 4 defined by the wall 3, and similar spaces in other embodiments, can be referred to herein as a container space, a prismatic container space, or a container region.

[0223] In alternative embodiments, the first and second base sheet actuators are arranged vertically or in an orientation other than horizontal, with other portions of the apparatus arranged as with reference to Figure 7 The actuators shown have the same relationship.

[0224] 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 cutter, or any alternative known to the reader.

[0225] The reader can 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.

[0226] 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 such that the blade pierces the base shape. This can be considered radial movement relative to the base shape.

[0227] In various embodiments, with reference to Figures 12 to 14 The tools shown provide a hot tool to heat the end insert and tube body as shown herein.

[0228] In different embodiments, reference is made to Figures 12 to 14 The tools presented provide both hot tools and cold tools as presented herein.

[0229] In some embodiments, the hot tool and the cold tool are similar shaped tools differing only in their operating temperature. In one of these embodiments, reference is made to Figures 12 to 14 The tools presented provide both hot tools and cold tools.

[0230] In some embodiments, only hot tools are used and cold tools are omitted.

[0231] In different embodiments, the radius formed between the cavity wall and the cavity end provided by the tool is arranged to cause the wall of the tube and the wall of the end to curl inwardly towards the cavity and away from the cavity wall when the tube body and end insert are forced into the cavity.

[0232] In alternative embodiments, the clamping portion (such as Figures 15 to 20 embodied in the examples) has an alternative shape formed in the region to form an alternative base shape. Different embodiments include a stepped shape, a high dome, a low dome, an oval shape, and shapes having different profiles in an axis perpendicular to the axis of movement in the clamping operation, and other shapes known to the reader as suitable for a given weight, type of item to be packaged, ripeness of the fruit, type of fruit, or other characteristics of the item to be packaged.

[0233] Embodiments of the present utility model can provide a base suitable for terminating a container space defined by a wall container and / or a tube container, the base being formed from a piece of material and separated from the sheet material without leaving a residual flange of material from the piece of material when the base is separated from the remainder of the sheet material. Embodiments can provide a base without a flange that can inhibit curling to which the base is attached to the container body or container wall.

[0234] Embodiments of the present utility model can provide an end insert for a container body defining a wall container and / or a tube container, the base being formed from a piece of material and separated from the sheet material without leaving a residual flange of material from the piece of material when the base is separated from the remainder of the sheet material. Embodiments can provide a base without a flange that can inhibit curling to which the base is attached to the container body or container wall.

[0235] In further embodiments, the dome of the base for tube packaging can act as a shock absorber, providing mechanical damping in addition to acting as a spring.

[0236] In alternative embodiments, the wall of the curling container and the portion or wall of the end insert, end or base can be replaced with any deformation method known to the reader as suitable for attaching the end insert, end or base to the container wall.

[0237] In alternative embodiments, the portions or walls of the wall of the crimped container and the end insert, tip or base (base) can be replaced with any method of profiling the insert, base or tip and the wall known to the reader as suitable to attach the end insert, tip or base to the wall of the container. The profiling can include folding, crimping, bending of the entire circumference of the wall and base or one or more portions of the circumference of the wall and base.

[0238] In various further aspects and embodiments, equivalent components replace given components. For example, in further aspects and embodiments, any end insert, insert, base, base tip, tip can replace any other of these.

[0239] In Figure 5 In embodiments of the end insert is shown abutting 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 can not be flush or aligned. In some alternative embodiments, the wall can extend beyond, or as shown over the attached portion of the end insert.

[0240] Figures 27 to 30 An end insert 305 according to a further embodiment of the present application is shown. Figures 27 to 30 An end insert is shown with a second portion or attached portion as it attaches the end insert to the container body (not shown) prior to crimping with the container body. The end insert 305 of this embodiment has an annular region 321 which as shown extends upwardly in use. A recessed region 322 is also shown. The recessed region is shaped to spread forces and reduce pressure on the surface of an article (not shown) supported by the end insert in use. In use, as the article to be supported is moved downwardly, the article is supported by the force spreading and reduced pressure by the recessed region. The recessed region is supported by the annular deformed region 321. The annular region 321 is supported by the attached portion 321. The annular region 321 is deformed or bent to absorb any jolts or movement of the article (not shown) towards the surface on which the packaging container is supported. The article can be described as being suspended by the recessed region 322 and the deformed region 321.

[0241] Figures 31 to 34 An end insert 405 according to a further embodiment of the present application is shown. The attached portion 407 is visible. A support region 422 for supporting an article (not shown) is also shown. These Figures 31 to 34 The end insert has a strut element 421 with an end 423 which abuts the surface on which the container is supported in order to support that support region 422. Depending on the dimensions of the strut elements, they will prevent movement, absorb impacts, resist movement of the article.

[0242] Figures 35 to 38 An end insert 405 according to a further embodiment of the present application is shown. The adjunct portion 507 is clearly shown. As shown in use, a horizontal deforming element extends from the adjunct portion 507 to the first support region 422, which supports the second support region. In use, an article (not shown) is supported by the regions 422 and 423, and the region 421 is deformed. Depending on the particular application, the deforming element deforms to resist movement of the article, to inhibit movement of the article, or to absorb an impact that the article can experience.

[0243] In a first aspect of the present application, there is provided a packaging article, the packaging article comprising:

[0244] a wall arranged to define a prismatic container space; and

[0245] an end insert received within the tube wall at a first end of the container space, the end portion having a first part that terminates the first end of the container space and having a second part that is adjunct to the tube wall to locate the first part within the tube wall, wherein a section of the tube wall adjacent the end of the container space terminated by the first part of the end insert extends back towards an end of the container space away from the terminated end in a first convolution, and wherein the second part of the end insert extends in a second convolution inside the first convolution.

[0246] In a first aspect of the present application, there is provided a packaging article, the packaging article comprising:

[0247] a wall arranged to define a prismatic container space; and

[0248] an end portion at a first end of the container space to terminate the prismatic container space, the end portion having a first part that terminates the container space and having a second part that is adjunct to the tube wall to locate the first part, wherein the second part of the end portion is adjunct to the section of the tube wall by a method that crimps the second part and the section of the tube wall.

[0249] In a first aspect of the present application, there is provided a packaging article, the packaging article comprising:

[0250] a container wall arranged to define a prismatic container space; and

[0251] an end portion, the end portion being positioned to terminate the prismatic container space, the end portion having a first portion that terminates the container space and having a second portion that is attached to the tube wall to position the first portion, wherein the second portion of the end insert is attached to the segments of the tube wall by crimping the second portion to the segments, and the segments 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.

[0252] In another aspect the present application provides a package, the package comprising:

[0253] a wall arranged to define a prismatic container space; and

[0254] an end insert, the end insert being received within the tube wall at a first end of the container space, the end portion having a first portion that terminates the first end of the container space and having a second portion that is attached to the wall to position the first portion within the wall, wherein the second portion of the end insert is attached to the segments of the wall by crimping the second portion and the segments of the tube wall.

[0255] In another aspect the present application provides a method of manufacturing a package, the method comprising the steps of:

[0256] providing a wall defining a prismatic space;

[0257] providing an insert, the insert being shaped to define a prism, the prism being shaped to be inserted into the prismatic space, the insert having a first portion that is capable of terminating the prismatic space and the insert having a second portion that is capable of being attached to the wall; and

[0258] attaching the insert to the wall by crimping end segments of the wall adjacent the insert and crimping the second portion of the insert.

[0259] As used herein, the term "extending transversely to" means extending, for example, in a direction transverse to a plane or through a plane.

[0260] In the above specification and the following claims, the word "comprising" or its equivalent is used in the inclusive sense of "including" and not the exclusive sense of "consisting of." The term "consisting of" is used to indicate the presence of precisely the stated features or steps and nothing more.

[0261] It will be appreciated that the present application is not limited to the embodiments described herein and that further and additional embodiments within the spirit and scope of the present application will be apparent to the skilled person from the examples shown with reference to the drawings. In particular, the present application can reside in any combination of the features described herein or in alternative embodiments or combinations of these features with known equivalents of the given features. Modifications and variations of the example embodiments of the present application discussed above will be apparent to those skilled in the art and can be made without departing from the scope of the present application, as defined in the appended claims.

Claims

1. A packaging container, characterized in that The packaging container comprises: a container wall arranged to define a prismatic container space for one or more articles; a support element arranged to support an article in the container space adjacent an end of the container wall; the support element is arranged to deform under a force from the one or more articles.

2. The packaging container according to claim 1, characterized in that The packaging container comprises an end insert formed from a sheet of flexible resilient material, the end insert having a first portion capable of terminating the container space, wherein the support element is provided by the first portion, 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 wall has a curled portion arranged in a scroll, the scroll initially travelling inwards towards a central axis of the container space, then towards a second end or away from the first end of the container space, wherein the second portion of the end insert has a curled portion arranged in a scroll, the scroll of the second portion initially travelling inwards towards a central axis of the container space, then towards a second end or away from the first end of the container space, and wherein the scroll of the second portion of the end insert is arranged within the scroll of the curled portion of the container wall.

3. A packaging container according to claim 1 or claim 2, characterised in that The support element is arranged to support the one or more articles and to deform under a static force from the one or more articles.

4. The packaging container according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that, The support element is arranged to support the one or more articles and to deform under a weight of the one or more articles.

5. The packaging container according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that, The support element is arranged to support the one or more articles and to deform under a force having a component caused by momentum of the one or more articles.

6. The packaging container according to claim 5, characterized in that The momentum is characterised by the one or more articles being loaded into the container space.

7. A packaging container according to claim 5 or 6, characterised in that The momentum is characterised by the one or more articles falling into the container space.

8. The packaging container according to any one of claims 1 to 7, characterized in that The force is characterised by vibration of the one or more articles.

9. The packaging container according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that, The support element is arranged to deform under a dynamic load expected during loading of an article into the container space by dropping the article onto a support surface.

10. The packaging container according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterized in that, The support element is arranged to deform under a dynamic load expected during transport of the container with the contained articles.

11. A packaging container according to claim 9 or 10, characterised in that The support element is arranged to provide an impact under deformation to arrest movement of the articles causing the dynamic load to prevent impact of the support element under deformation and a surface supporting the container wall.

12. The packaging container according to any one of claims 1 to 11, characterized in that The support element comprises one or more support features capable of supporting against a surface supporting the packaging container to arrest movement of the one or more articles.

13. The packaging container according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that The support element is shaped and positioned to terminate the container space at an end.

14. The packaging container according to any one of claims 1 to 12, characterized in that The support element has a convex shape relative to the container space.

15. The packaging container according to claim 14, characterized in that The convex shape is elliptical.

16. The packaging container of claim 14, wherein The convex shape has a different profile in each of two perpendicular axes, each perpendicular axis being perpendicular to a central axis of a prismatic container space defined by the container wall.

17. The packaging container according to any one of claims 1 to 16, characterized in that The support element is arranged to deform with a first modulus of strain for smaller deformations and a second modulus of strain for larger deformations, wherein the second modulus is higher than the first modulus.

18. The packaging container according to any one of claims 1 to 17, characterized in that The support element is arranged to provide damping for the moving article.

19. The packaging container according to any one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that The support element is arranged to deform so as to maintain contact with the one or more articles over a range of deformations of the support element caused by the one or more articles.

20. The packaging container of claim 19, wherein, The range of deformations is about 0.5 cm.

21. The packaging container of claim 19, wherein, The range of deformations is about 1 cm.

22. The packaging container of claim 19, wherein The range of deformations is about 2 cm.

23. The packaging container of claim 19, wherein, The range of deformations is in the range of 1 cm to 2 cm.

24. The packaging container of claim 2, wherein The second portion of the end insert defines a prism having a cross section complementary to a cross section of a prismatic container region defined by the container wall, wherein the second portion of the end insert is received within the prismatic container region.

25. The packaging container according to any one of claims 1 to 24, characterised in that The support element is formed from a piece of material.

26. The packaging container of claim 2, wherein The second portion defines a prism, and wherein the second portion has been separated from the piece of material at a cutout in the second portion, the cutout extending around a perimeter of the prism.

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