Bottle carrier made of cellulose-containing flat material

Abstract

Bottle carrier (10) with a support element (12; 46; 58) consisting of a cellulose-containing flat material, in particular cardboard or paper, in which two rows (14a, 14b) of three receiving recesses (16a-16f) each for holding one bottle (74) are formed, and in which a grip section (30) is formed between two punched lines (28, 52, 64) running along the two rows (14a, 14b), wherein at least one fold line (32a-32c, 54a-54c, 66a-66c) transverse to the rows (14a, 14b) is formed between two opposing, central receiving recesses (16b, 16e) of the two rows (14a, 14b) and the respective following receiving recesses (16a, 16c, 16d, 16f) of the two rows (14a, 14b). 14b) proceeds.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a bottle carrier made of cellulose-containing flat material, in particular cardboard or paper. The invention further relates to a blank for manufacturing a bottle carrier, a carrying system comprising a bottle carrier and several bottles, and methods for manufacturing carrying systems.

[0002] These bottle carriers are widely used to group bottles together, typically in groups of six, and to handle them together.

[0003] DE 10 2013 108 857 A1 describes a cardboard bottle carrier with an upper holding section that extends essentially parallel to a lower base section, the holding section and the base section being connected to each other via side walls. Grip tabs can be formed in the holding section by means of three-quarter circular cutouts. A similar bottle carrier is known from DE 20 2012 006 513 U1. However, holding such bottle carriers with two fingers is not very comfortable, especially when carrying heavy (large) bottles.

[0004] From AT 297580 B, a bottle carrier is known which is erected from a blank of sheet material, forming a base wall, two opposing side walls, and a top wall. One of the side walls can be extended by a plate in which a handle is provided. Due to the lateral arrangement of the handle, the bottle carrier tilts when lifted, and in addition, the gripping area of ​​the handle, designed as a narrow edge, exerts increased linear pressure on the hand when holding the known bottle carrier.

[0005] The familiar bottle carriers are particularly suitable for smaller bottles up to approximately 0.33 liters or a maximum of 0.5 liters. For larger bottles, such as those with a capacity of 1.0, 1.5, or 2.0 liters, they are often not stable enough. Furthermore, holding the familiar handles when loading the bottle carriers with large, i.e., heavy, bottles is strenuous and uncomfortable.

[0006] Groups of larger bottles are often presented shrink-wrapped in plastic film, with a plastic strap serving as a carrying handle. However, the use of plastic is considered problematic for environmental reasons, particularly regarding disposal and recycling. Object of the invention

[0007] The object of the invention is to provide a conveniently manageable and stable bottle carrier that can be rationally manufactured from easily recyclable material. Brief description of the invention

[0008] This problem is solved by a bottle carrier according to claim 1. The dependent claims and the description specify advantageous embodiments.

[0009] The bottle carrier according to the invention has a support element consisting of a cellulose-containing flat material, in particular cardboard or paper. The support element is usually flat (planar). The cellulose-containing flat material is typically easily recyclable. The flat material can, in particular, be a recycled material itself or can contain recycled material in proportions. Typically, the support element consists of cardboard. The thickness of a layer of the flat material of the support element can be between 0.5 mm and 1.0 mm, preferably 0.65 mm to 0.7 mm. For particularly high stability, the thickness of the flat material can be at least 1.5 mm, preferably at least 2.0 mm. The flat material can be coated or impregnated on one or both sides, in particular with a water-repellent finish. The coating or impregnation is typically biodegradable.

[0010] The support element has two rows of recesses, each designed to hold one bottle. Each row contains at least two, typically three, recesses. These recesses are designed to engage a section of the bottle in the area of ​​the bottle's closure. Each recess typically features retaining sections to hold the bottle inserted into it. These retaining sections can be formed by teeth, particularly around the perimeter of the recess. The support element can be slotted between the teeth to form these sections. Such retaining sections can reliably hold even heavy bottles. To attach the bottles to the bottle carrier, they are inserted into the recesses from below. The retaining sections are then bent upwards.When the bottles are pushed forward, the holding sections spring back so that they engage behind a radially projecting element in the area of ​​the bottle neck, for example a closure or a collar of the bottle.

[0011] A handle section is formed in the support element between two punch lines running along the two rows of cutouts. In other words, the handle section is punched out of the support element. The punch lines penetrate the support element completely in the direction of its thickness. The punch lines are generally linear. In particular, the punch lines do not cause any surface material removal. Perpendicular to the longitudinal extent of the punch lines, the cellulose-containing flat material typically does not gape apart, at least not when the support element is flat. In other words, when the support element is flat, opposing cut edges in the flat material lie against each other. The handle section serves to be gripped with the fingers of one hand, so that the bottle carrier can be lifted. The handle section extends along the two rows of receiving cutouts.The handle section is separated from the rows of receiving recesses by the punched lines. The handle section allows for comfortable carrying of the bottle carrier. It typically extends over the center of gravity of the bottle carrier, especially when it is fully loaded with bottles. The handle section can be band-shaped. Optimal force transmission to the bottle carrier can be achieved through appropriate shaping of the handle section. For example, the handle section may widen towards its ends.

[0012] The handle section can be lifted via a cover section of the support element, in which the receiving recesses are formed. The lifted handle section can be comfortably gripped by the fingers of one hand. The handle section and the cover section are formed as a single piece. The punched lines delineate the handle section from the cover section. The handle section is typically strip-shaped. Such a handle section is comfortable to hold even with heavy (large) bottles. When the handle section is lifted, the deformation of the cover section creates a stable three-dimensional structure, which, due to its shape, offers advantages in force distribution, stability, and carrying comfort. A widening of the handle section towards the cover section is preferred.

[0013] The bottle carrier according to the invention is typically designed for loads between 10 kg and 30 kg, in particular for loads from 15 kg to 20 kg.

[0014] The two rows can each have three receiving recesses. Preferably, the two rows each have exactly three receiving recesses. This has proven advantageous in practice. Furthermore, such a bottle carrier allows for a favorable arrangement of the handle section and an arrangement of the punched lines that is advantageous with regard to force flow. Six bottles, even six large bottles, e.g., six 1.5-liter bottles, can be held comfortably and securely with the bottle carrier according to the invention.

[0015] The punch lines can run between two opposing, central receiving recesses of the two rows. In other words, an (imaginary) straight line connecting the central receiving recesses, especially the centers of the central receiving recesses, intersects the two punch lines. The bottle carrier can then be gripped between the bottles inserted into the central receiving recesses, allowing for safe and effortless carrying. On either side of the two central receiving recesses, each row has at least one further receiving recess.

[0016] Between two opposing, central receiving recesses of the two rows and the subsequent receiving recesses of the two rows, at least one fold line can run transversely to the rows. By folding the support element along the fold lines, the distance between the central and subsequent receiving recesses can be reduced. This can facilitate lifting the handle section over the top section. In particular, it can be provided that the support element can be folded upwards between the central and subsequent receiving recesses. Due to the proximity of the receiving recesses along the rows, the bottles can support and stabilize themselves against each other when the bottle carrier loaded with bottles is lifted.

[0017] Preferably, three fold lines run perpendicular to the rows between the middle and each subsequent receiving recess. The support element can then be folded outwards like a roof. The three fold lines facilitate a defined deformation of the bottle carrier. The fold lines typically run parallel to each other.

[0018] The fold lines are typically formed by linear indentations. In other words, the fold lines are formed by elongated, narrow material compressions. The fold lines generally do not cause material separation across the entire thickness of the load-bearing element. In most cases, the fold lines also do not cause surface material separation. With three fold lines, the outermost fold lines are typically indented into the load-bearing element from above, and the middle fold line is indented from below.

[0019] The punched lines preferably terminate at the two middle fold lines. In other words, each of the two punched lines ends on both sides (at its two ends) at the middle of the three fold lines. This allows for particularly efficient force transmission from the handle section to the top section of the support element. The handle section can protrude smoothly from an outer flank of the roof-like fold between the middle and subsequent receiving recesses. In other words, the handle section can transition seamlessly into the outer flank of the roof-like fold. This avoids stress concentrations at the transition between the handle section and the top section.

[0020] Advantageously, the punched lines are designed to run away from each other at the ends. This widens the handle section at its end, i.e., in the area where it transitions to the top section of the support element. This increases the stability of the bottle carrier.

[0021] It is particularly advantageous if the punch lines extend towards a central receiving recess of the nearest row at their ends. In other words, the punch lines can be designed to have a curved path towards their respective ends and to change their direction relative to a central portion of the punch lines by more than 90°, typically more than 120°, preferably more than 145°. The central portion of the punch lines generally runs parallel to the two rows of receiving recesses, even in other embodiments. In their end regions, the punch lines curve outwards in the advantageous embodiment, so that they initially run transversely to the rows of receiving recesses and finally curve back towards the central receiving recess.When viewed along the rows, the outermost point of the die-cutting lines does not correspond to the end of the line, but lies just before it (when tracing the line from its middle section). This described arrangement of the die-cutting lines reliably prevents the bottle carrier from tearing.

[0022] The support element can be multi-layered, particularly double-layered, at least in the area of ​​the two rows of receiving recesses. This not only reduces the risk of bottles unintentionally being torn out of the receiving recesses, but reliably prevents it.

[0023] In particular, the support element can have a lateral reinforcement section for each row of receiving recesses. This allows for simplified manufacturing. The lateral reinforcement sections can be bonded to the underside of the support element's top section. Bonding creates a flat, stable connection. Furthermore, bonding can be carried out efficiently, especially automatically.

[0024] The two lateral reinforcement sections and the top section of the support element are preferably formed in one piece. The one-piece support element can be easily punched out. The one-piece construction also reduces handling effort during production. Advantageously, the two lateral reinforcement sections are each folded under the top section. This simplifies and speeds up the manufacturing of the bottle carrier according to the invention. Furthermore, the resulting fold edge further increases the stability of the bottle carrier.

[0025] As an alternative to lateral reinforcement sections, a multi-layered support element can be designed to have a common reinforcement section for both rows of receiving recesses. This results in a particularly stable support element. The common reinforcement section can be bonded to the underside of the support element's top section. Bonding creates a continuous, stable connection. Furthermore, bonding can be carried out efficiently, especially automatically.

[0026] The common reinforcement section and the top section of the support element are preferably formed in one piece. The one-piece support element can be easily punched out. The one-piece design also reduces handling effort during production. The common reinforcement section is advantageously folded under the top section. This further simplifies and speeds up manufacturing. In addition, the resulting fold line further increases the stability of the bottle carrier.

[0027] The support element can have a reinforcing element in the area of ​​the handle section. This secures the handle section against tearing. Typically, when viewed along the rows of receiving recesses, the reinforcing element extends beyond the punched lines. This reliably prevents the handle section from tearing out of the cover section. Furthermore, when viewed along the rows, the reinforcing element can extend beyond the handle section into the area of ​​the receiving recesses. This achieves a particularly effective reinforcement.

[0028] The reinforcing element can be formed with a folded paper strip. A paper strip is efficient to produce, very durable, and comfortable to hold. The paper strip is preferably folded lengthwise. Typically, the paper strip is folded over at two fold lines. The rounded longitudinal edges created by the folding process make the handle section with the paper strip particularly comfortable to hold. Folded longitudinal sections of the paper strip can extend to the middle or to the opposite edge of the paper strip. This results in a two-layer or three-layer paper strip. The thickness of the two-layer paper strip can be between 0.3 mm and 0.7 mm, preferably approximately 0.5 mm. Folded longitudinal sections of the paper strip can overlap, resulting in a three-layer paper strip.The thickness of the three-ply paper strip can be between 0.4 mm and 0.8 mm, preferably 0.5 mm to 0.75 mm. The handle section is formed between two end sections of the paper strip with respect to its longitudinal extent.

[0029] The paper strip can be attached directly to the underside of the supporting element, in particular the underside of the cover section and / or the handle section. This simplifies manufacturing. Preferably, the paper strip is glued to the underside. Gluing creates a flat, stable bond. Furthermore, gluing can be carried out efficiently, especially automatically.

[0030] As an alternative to a multi-layered design, the load-bearing element can be single-layered. A single-layer load-bearing element is particularly cost-effective and resource-efficient to manufacture.

[0031] To facilitate easy removal of bottles from the bottle carrier, the support element can have a perforation line running from each receiving recess to a free edge of the support element. These perforations can be torn open with minimal effort to remove the bottles. At the same time, such perforations do not significantly impair the load-bearing capacity of the bottle carrier.

[0032] The invention also encompasses a blank made of cellulose-containing flat material for a bottle carrier according to the invention as described above. Bottle carriers according to the invention can be easily manufactured using such a blank, in particular by incorporating the die-cutting lines. If necessary, fold lines or perforation lines can be easily incorporated into the blank. Alternatively, the bottle carrier can also be manufactured from the blank by folding and gluing.

[0033] The invention further encompasses a carrying system comprising a bottle carrier according to the invention as described above and a plurality of identical bottles. The distance between the receiving recesses, measured along the rows in a flat state of the carrying element, is greater than the maximum diameter of the bottles. The handle section can be raised above the top section of the carrying element by bringing the receiving recesses closer together until a distance corresponding to the maximum diameter of the bottles is reached. When the handle section is raised, the bottles come into contact with each other when inserted into the receiving recesses. This stabilizes the carrying system.

[0034] The bottles typically have a substantially cylindrical, and in particular circular, body. The substantially cylindrical body may have a constriction, in particular a circumferential one. The bottles taper towards a closure. The bottles may have a capacity of at least 1.0 liter, preferably at least 1.5 liters. The bottles are typically filled with a liquid, in particular completely filled.

[0035] The carrying system can also include a securing strap for gripping the bottles. This strap presses the bottles in the carrier together, preventing or minimizing movement. The securing strap can be made of a cellulose-based flat material, particularly cardboard or paper, thus replacing a plastic strap. A securing strap made of cellulose-based flat material is easily recyclable.

[0036] Preferably, each of the bottle carrier's recesses holds one bottle, and the securing strap encircles all the bottles at a distance from the carrier. The bottles are secured in two planes by the carrier and the securing strap positioned at a distance from it. This results in high stability for the carrying system. Such a carrying system is particularly easy to transport. In particular, several such carrying systems can be stacked, for example, on pallets.

[0037] When several carrying systems according to the invention, with bottles inserted, are stacked on top of each other, the handle section can be springily pressed downwards by the bottles of the carrying system above. The flexibility of the handle section prevents damage to the bottle carrier and the bottles. Furthermore, the upper bottles can be placed stably on their bases resting on the caps of the bottles below. When a carrying system filled with bottles is removed from a carrying system below it, the now unloaded handle section springs back to its original position, creating a space that can be gripped by fingers.

[0038] The invention also includes a method for manufacturing a support system according to the invention as described above. The method comprises the following steps: a) Arranging the bottles in two rows, with the bottles spaced apart from each other along the rows, b) Place the bottle carrier in a flat position so that the bottles are held in the receiving recesses, c) Bringing the bottles closer together and extending the handle section over a deck section of the bottle carrier's support element.

[0039] Steps a) to c) are performed in the specified order. This procedure can be carried out with very little equipment, and in particular largely or entirely manually. A simple positioning gauge for the bottles can be used to facilitate step a). Steps b) and c) can also be performed without any aids. In step c), the handle section can be raised to bring the bottles together for positioning. Alternatively, in step c), the bottles can be brought closer together to extend the handle section.

[0040] An alternative method according to the invention serves to manufacture a support system comprising a bottle carrier according to the invention, in which three fold lines run transversely to the rows between two opposing, central receiving recesses of the two rows and the respective subsequent receiving recesses of the two rows, and a plurality of identical bottles. The method comprises the steps A) Arrange the bottles in two rows, with the bottles touching along the rows, B) Unfolding the bottle carrier along the fold lines between the middle and subsequent receiving recesses, C) Place the bottle carrier onto the bottles so that the bottles are held in the receiving recesses.

[0041] Steps A) and B) can be performed simultaneously or in any order. Step C) follows. This process can be automated particularly easily and very quickly. A die and a punch can be used to unfold the bottle carrier in step B). Step C) can be performed using a suction gripper.

[0042] Further advantages of the invention will become apparent from the description and the drawing. According to the invention, the features mentioned above and those described in more detail below can each be used individually or in any combination. The embodiments shown and described are not to be understood as an exhaustive list, but rather serve as examples for illustrating the invention. Detailed description of the invention and drawing

[0043] The invention is illustrated in the drawing and explained in more detail with reference to exemplary embodiments. The drawing shows: Fig. 1 a bottle carrier with a single-layer support element with two rows of three receiving recesses each and with a handle section defined by punched lines, in a schematic top view; Fig. 2a-d different variants of reinforcing elements in the form of a single-layer, simply folded, twice folded towards the center or twice overlapping paper strip, in schematic perspective views; Fig. 3 a cutout for a bottle carrier with a two-layer support element comprising a deck section and a common reinforcement section for both rows of receiving recesses, in a schematic top view; Fig. 4 a cutout for a bottle carrier with a two-layer support element comprising a top section and two lateral reinforcement sections for a series of receiving recesses each, in a schematic top view; Fig. 5 a bottle carrier with two roof-like folds extending transversely to two rows of receiving recesses, wherein a handle section terminates at the central fold lines of the folds, in a schematic perspective view; Fig. 6 a carrying system with the bottle carrier from Fig. 5, in which six bottles are held, in a schematic perspective view; Fig. 7 a flowchart of a first procedure for manufacturing a carrying system; Fig. 8 a flowchart of a second procedure for manufacturing a carrying system.

[0044] Fig. Figure 1 shows a bottle carrier 10. The bottle carrier 10 has a single-layer support element 12. The support element 12 is formed from a blank 13 consisting of cellulose-containing flat material, here cardboard.

[0045] In the support element 12, two rows 14a, 14b each have three receiving recesses 16a, 16b, 16cb and 16d, 16e, 16f respectively. The receiving recesses 16a-16f serve to hold in Fig. 1 bottle (not shown). The receiving recesses 16a-16f are each provided with retaining sections 18, here in the form of teeth. The teeth are separated from each other by punched slots 20. The retaining sections 18 are arranged around the perimeter of the receiving recesses 16a-16f at their edges. Radially on the outside, the retaining sections 18 are connected to a cover section 23 of the support element 12 via embossed bending edges 22. A perforation line 24 extends from each receiving recess 16 to a free edge 26 of the support element 12. The receiving recesses 16a-16f are all identical in this embodiment. In another embodiment not shown, they could also be of different sizes.

[0046] The support element 12 of the bottle carrier 10 has two punch lines 28. The punch lines 28 run between the two rows 14a, 14b of receiving recesses 16a-16f. The punch lines 28 penetrate the support element 12 completely in the direction of its thickness. Here, the punch lines 28 extend between the middle receiving recesses 16b and 16e. The middle receiving recesses 16b and 16e are separated from each other by the punch lines 28. Viewed along the rows 14a, 14b, the outer receiving recesses 16a and 16c, and 16d and 16f, respectively, are arranged on either side of the middle receiving recesses 16b, 16e. The receiving recesses 16a and 16d, 16b and 16e, and 16c and 16f are each opposite each other.

[0047] The area between the punched lines 28 forms a grip section 30 of the bottle carrier 10. In other words, the grip section 30 is defined by the punched lines 28 and delimited from the cover section 23 of the support element 12. The grip section 30 serves to be grasped with the fingers of one hand, so that the bottle carrier 10, typically including the bottles held in the receiving recesses 16a-16f, can be lifted.

[0048] Between the central receiving recesses 16b, 16e and the respective following, here outer, receiving recesses 16a, 16c and 16d, 16f, three fold lines 32a, 32b, 32c run transversely to the rows 14a, 14b of receiving recesses 16a-16f. The outermost fold lines 32a and 32c are tangent to the bending edges 22 at the transition to the retaining sections 18 of the receiving recesses 16a-16f. The fold lines 32a each run in two sections from the free edge 26 of the support element 12 to the punch lines 28. The fold lines 32c each run in three sections from the free edge 26 on the side of row 14a to the free edge 26 on the side of row 14b. The middle fold lines 32b each run from the free edges 26 on both sides of the rows 14a, 14b to a respective endpoint 34 of the die-cut lines 28. In other words, the two die-cut lines 28 each end on both sides at the middle fold lines 32b.

[0049] The outermost fold lines 32a and 32c are designed to fold the support element 12 upwards (out of the plane of the drawing). The middle fold lines 32b are designed to fold the support element 12 downwards (into the plane of the drawing). The two groups of the three fold lines 32a-32c thus each allow the support element 12 to be folded in a roof-like manner between the middle receiving recesses 16b and 16e and the adjoining receiving recesses 16a, 16c, 16d, and 16f, cf. Fig. 5. Unfolding can increase the stiffness of the bottle carrier 10, particularly with respect to bending loads about a bending axis running parallel to the rows 14a, 14b. Furthermore, unfolding reduces the distance between the central receiving recesses 16b, 16e of the two rows 14a, 14b and the respective adjoining receiving recesses 16a, 16d and 16d, 16f, respectively. In the illustrated flat state of the support element 12, the distance 35 is greater than the maximum diameter of the bottles to be held in the receiving recesses 16a-16f, cf. Fig. 6. Since the handle section 30 originates at the central fold lines 32b, lifting the bottle carrier 10 by the handle section 30 supports the roof-like unfolding of the support element 12. This unfolding action causes the handle section 30 to flare upwards, making it easier to grip. Bottles inserted into the receiving recesses 16a-16f are thereby pressed together, increasing the stability of a carrying system with the bottle carrier 10 and the bottles.

[0050] The two punch lines 28 diverge towards their endpoints 34. As a result, the handle section 30 widens towards its ends, viewed from its center. The punch lines 28 each extend towards the central receiving recesses 16b and 16e of the nearest rows 14a and 14b, respectively. In other words, the punch lines 28 have a curved path towards their endpoints 34, initially diverging before returning to the center (when viewed along rows 14a and 14b). The endpoints 34 of the punch lines 28 do not form their outermost points when viewed along rows 14a and 14b. Instead, the endpoints 34 of the punch lines 28 lie on the central fold lines 32b. The design described above improves the force transmission from the handle section 30 into the support element 12.In particular, the risk of entry is reduced.

[0051] The support element 12, in particular its handle section 30, can be reinforced with a reinforcing element, cf. Fig. 2a-2d, be reinforced. One possible arrangement of the reinforcing element is shown with dashed lines 36 in Fig. 1 indicated.

[0052] Fig. Figure 2a shows a first reinforcing element 38a. The reinforcing element 38a consists of a single-layer paper strip.

[0053] Fig. Figure 2b shows a second reinforcing element 38b. The reinforcing element 38b consists of a two-layer paper strip folded along a longitudinal edge 40. Strip sections 42a, 42b of the reinforcing element 38b may be glued together.

[0054] Fig. Figure 2c shows a third reinforcing element 38c. The reinforcing element 38c consists of a two-layer paper strip folded towards the center along two longitudinal edges 40a, 40b. Folded strip sections 42c, 42d of the reinforcing element 38b can be glued to a central strip section 42e.

[0055] Fig. Figure 2d shows a fourth reinforcing element 38d. The reinforcing element 38d consists of a three-layer paper strip folded along two longitudinal edges 40a, 40b. Folded strip sections 42f, 42g overlap each other. The folded strip sections 42f, 42g can be glued together or to a central strip section 42h.

[0056] The reinforcing elements 38a-38d according to the Fig. 2a-2d can be used with the bottle carrier from Fig. 1 between the dashed lines. Typically, the selected reinforcement element 38a-38d is bonded to the support element 12, in particular to the underside of the support element 12. The reinforcement element 38a-38d can extend over the entire length of the bottle carrier 10. Alternatively, the reinforcement element 38a-38d can extend only over a partial area, in particular in the area of ​​the handle section 30, of the bottle carrier 10.

[0057] Fig. Figure 3 shows a blank 44 for a bottle carrier with a two-layer support element 46. The support element 46 is flat and consists of a paper-like, cellulose-fiber-containing material, namely cardboard.

[0058] The load-bearing element 46 has a deck section 23 and a common reinforcement section 48. The deck section 23 of the load-bearing element 46 corresponds in its design to the deck section 23 of the load-bearing element 12 of Fig. 1. The supporting element 46 is formed in one piece. The common reinforcement section 48 is connected to the deck section 23 via an embossed bending edge 50. The common reinforcement section 48 can be folded at the bending edge 50 relative to the deck section 23 so that it rests against the underside of the deck section 23. It is intended that the common reinforcement section 48 be bonded to the deck section 23 over its entire surface.

[0059] The supporting element 46 has two rows 14a, 14b of receiving recesses 16a-16f. The two rows 14a, 14b each comprise receiving recesses 16a-16f in the deck section 23 and the common reinforcement section 48. After the common reinforcement section 48 is folded over, the supporting element 46 is formed in two layers.

[0060] The receiving recesses 16a-16f are formed in the supporting element 46 both in deck section 12 and in the common reinforcement section 48. They have, as in Fig. As described in section 1, each retaining section 18 is in the form of teeth, separated from each other by slots 20 and transitioning materially into the cover section 12 or the common reinforcement section 48 via bending edges 22. After the common reinforcement section 48 is folded over, the receiving recesses 16a-16f are surrounded by a double layer.

[0061] Perforation lines 24b for tearing open when removing bottles from a bottle carrier manufactured with the support element 46 extend in series 14b between the corresponding receiving recesses 16d-16f in the cover section 23 and the common reinforcement section 48. The perforation lines 24b run over the bending edge 50. After the common reinforcement section 48 is folded over, the bending edge 50 forms part of a free edge 26 of the support element 42.

[0062] From the receiving recesses 16a-16c of the row 14a, a perforation line 24a runs directly to the free edge 26 of the support element 46.

[0063] Punch lines 52 are also provided in the common reinforcement section 46. The punch lines 28 in the cover section 23 and the punch lines 52 in the common reinforcement section 48 are congruent with each other after the reinforcement section 48 is folded under the cover section 23. In particular, the punch lines 52 in the common reinforcement section 48 correspond in their course and position to the punch lines 28 in the cover section 23. A layer 53a of two-layer handle section 30 is formed in both the cover section 23 and the common reinforcement section 48.

[0064] The two-layer support element 46 from Fig. 3 has, in its cover section 23, fold lines 32a-32c running transversely to the rows 14a, 14b between the respective central receiving recesses 16b, 16e and the adjoining receiving recesses 16a, 16c and 16d, 16f. The fold lines 32a-32c are as above for the support element 12 of Fig. 1 described above. In the common reinforcement section 48, opposing fold lines 54a, 54b, 54c are formed. After folding, the fold lines 32a-32c lie over the fold lines 54a-54c. The endpoints 34 of the punch lines 52 in the reinforcement section 48 lie on the middle fold lines 54b. In the illustrated, flat, extended state of the blank 44, the fold lines 54a-54c are embossed in the blank 44 opposite to the fold lines 32a-32c. After folding the reinforcement section 48, the now coinciding fold lines 32a-32c and 54a-54c allow – as above to Fig. 1 described for the supporting element 12 - a roof-like folding of the supporting element 46 between the middle receiving recesses 16b, 16e and the following receiving recesses 16a, 16c or 16d, 16f.

[0065] Between deck section 23 and the common reinforcement section 48, a reinforcement element, for example one of the reinforcement elements 38a-38d according to the, can be installed along dashed lines 36. Fig. 2a-2d, arranged. In particular, it may be provided that the reinforcing element 38a-38d is bonded to the underside of the deck section 23. The reinforcing section 48 may be bonded laterally to the deck section 23 and centrally to the reinforcing element 38a-38d.

[0066] Fig. Figure 4 shows a blank 56 for a bottle carrier with a two-layer support element 58. The support element 58 is flat and consists of cardboard containing cellulose fibers, in particular wood fibers.

[0067] The load-bearing element 58 has a deck section 23 and two lateral reinforcement sections 60. The deck section 23 of the load-bearing element 58 corresponds in its design to the deck section 23 of the load-bearing element 12 of Fig. 1. The supporting element 58 is formed in one piece. The lateral reinforcement sections 60 are connected to the deck section 23 via embossed bending edges 62. The lateral reinforcement sections 60 can be folded at the bending edges 62 relative to the deck section 23 so that they abut the underside of the deck section 23. It is intended that the lateral reinforcement sections 60 be bonded to the deck section 23 over their entire surface.

[0068] The support element 58 has two rows 14a, 14b of receiving recesses 16a-16f. The two rows 14a, 14b each comprise receiving recesses 16a-16f in the cover section 23 and in one of the two lateral reinforcement sections 60. After the lateral reinforcement sections 60 are folded over, the support element 58 is formed in multiple layers, particularly in the area of ​​the two rows 14a, 14b of receiving recesses 16a-16f, and indeed in its entirety, including in the area of ​​a handle section 30.

[0069] The receiving recesses 16a-16f are formed in the supporting element 58 both in the deck section 23 and in the lateral reinforcement sections 60. They have - as shown in the Fig. As described in Figure 1, each retaining section 18 is in the form of teeth, separated from each other by slots 20 and transitioning materially into the cover section 23 or the lateral reinforcement sections 60 via bending edges 22. After the lateral reinforcement sections 60 are folded over, the receiving recesses 16a-16f are surrounded by a double layer.

[0070] Perforation lines 24b for tearing open when removing bottles from a bottle carrier manufactured with the support element 58 extend between the corresponding receiving recesses 16a-16f in the top section 23 and the respective lateral reinforcement section 60. The perforation lines 24b run over the bending edges 62. After the lateral reinforcement sections 60 are folded over, the bending edges 62 form part of a free edge 26 of the support element 58.

[0071] Each of the lateral reinforcement sections 60 has a punched line 64. After the reinforcement sections 60 are folded under the cover section 23, the punched lines 28 in the cover section 23 and the punched lines 64 in the lateral reinforcement sections 60 are congruent. In particular, the punched lines 64 in the lateral reinforcement sections 60 correspond in their course and position to the punched lines 28 in the cover section 23. Both the cover section 23 and the lateral reinforcement sections 60 each contain a layer 53a or 53b of the two-layer handle section 30, with the second layer 53b being distributed between the two lateral reinforcement sections 60.

[0072] The two-layer support element 58 from Fig. Section 4 has fold lines 32a-32c running transversely to the rows 14a, 14b in its cover section 23 between the respective central receiving recesses 16b, 16e and the adjoining receiving recesses 16a, 16c and 16d, 16f. The fold lines 32a-32c are as described above for the support element 12. Fig. 1 described above. In the lateral reinforcement sections 60, opposing fold lines 66a, 66b, 66c are formed. After folding, the fold lines 32a-32c lie over the fold lines 66a-66c. The endpoints 34 of the punch lines 64 in the reinforcement sections 60 lie on the central fold lines 66b. In the illustrated flat, extended state of the blank 56, the fold lines 66a-66c are embossed in the blank 56 opposite the fold lines 32a-32c. After folding the reinforcement sections 60, the now coinciding fold lines 32a-32c and 66a-66c allow – as above to Fig. 1 described for the supporting element 12 - a roof-like folding of the supporting element 58 between the middle receiving recesses 16b, 16e and the following receiving recesses 16a, 16c or 16d, 16f.

[0073] Between the deck section 23 and the lateral reinforcement sections 60, a reinforcement element, for example one of the reinforcement elements 38a-38d according to the, can be placed along dashed lines 36. Fig. 2a-2d, arranged. In particular, it may be provided that the reinforcing element 38a-38d is bonded to the underside of the deck section 23. The reinforcing sections 60 may be bonded laterally to the deck section 23 and centrally to the reinforcing element 38a-38d.

[0074] Fig. Figure 5 shows the bottle carrier 10 according to Fig. 1 in the unfolded state of the support element 12. The support elements 46 and 58 according to the Fig. 3 and 4 can be unfolded in the same way to form a bottle carrier 10. The bottle carriers 10 obtained with the support elements 46 and 58 differ essentially from the bottle carrier 10 shown here by the multiple layers of their support elements 46 and 58.

[0075] The support element 12 is folded upwards at fold lines 32a and 32c; at fold lines 32b, it is folded downwards. This creates two roof-like folds 68 between the central receiving recesses 16b and 16e and the subsequent receiving recesses 16a, 16c, 16d, and 16f. The folds 68 each have flanks 70a facing the central receiving recesses 16b and 16e and flanks 70b facing outwards. The handle section 30 extends from the facing flanks 70b. The handle section 30 transitions smoothly into the facing flanks 70b. There is no kink at the transition between the handle section 30 and the facing flanks 70b.

[0076] Due to the folds 68, the outer receiving recesses 16a, 16c, 16d, 16f are connected to the middle receiving recesses 16b, 16e compared to the flat state of the supporting element 12, cf. Fig. 1, approaching each other. A distance 35' between the outer receiving recesses 16a, 16c, 16d, 16f and the middle receiving recesses 16b, 16e is smaller in the unfolded state of the support element 12 than the distance 35 in the flat state of the support element 12 (cf. Fig. 1).

[0077] Due to the folds 68 and the approach of the receiving recesses 16a-16f along the rows 14a, 14b, the handle section 30 is lifted upwards from the cover section 23 of the support element 12. In this extended state, the handle section 30 can be easily grasped. The cut edges 71a, 71b formed by the punch lines 28 on the handle section 30 and the cover section 23 of the support element 12, respectively, are spaced apart when the bottle carrier 10 is unfolded with the handle section 30 extended.

[0078] Fig. Figure 6 shows a carrying system 72. The carrying system 72 includes a bottle carrier 10 according to the Fig. 1 and Fig. 5. Furthermore, the carrying system 72 comprises six identical bottles 74. Each bottle 74 has a substantially cylindrical body 76 and a closure 78. A collar 80 is formed on each bottle 74 below the closure 78. The bottles 74 are inserted into the receiving recesses 16a-16f of the bottle carrier 10. The retaining sections 18 (see Figure 1) Fig. 1) The collars 80 of the bottles 74 engage under the receiving recesses 16a-16f. The bottles 74 are thereby held on the bottle carrier 10, so that all bottles 74 can be carried together by lifting the handle section 30.

[0079] The roof-like folds 68 are dimensioned in height such that the distance is 35' (cf. Fig. 5) between the central receiving recesses 16b, 16e and the outer receiving recesses 16a, 16c, 16d, 16f, the bottles 74 have a maximum diameter 82. When the bottle carrier 10 is lifted, the bottles 74 are pressed together at the handle section 30 by the oblique force applied from the handle section 30 to the outer flanks 70b of the folds 68 of the support element 12. For additional stabilization, the support system 72 has a securing band 84. The securing band 84 is made of cellulose-containing flat material, for example, paper. The securing band 84 encircles all the bottles 74 at a distance from the bottle carrier 10. The bottles 74 are thus held in two planes by the bottle carrier 10 and the securing band 84. This results in high stability of the support system 72.

[0080] Identical carrying systems 72 can be stacked on top of each other (not shown in detail). The bottles 74 of an upper carrying system 72 are placed with their bases 86 on the caps 78 of the bottles 74 of a carrying system 72 arranged below. The handle section 30 of the lower carrying system 72 is pressed slightly downwards by the bases 86 of the upper bottles 74. The bottle carrier 10, in particular the handle section 30, has a certain degree of flexibility, so that the handle section 30 can spring back upwards after the upper carrying system 72 is removed or can be manually extended upwards.

[0081] Fig. Figure 7 shows a flowchart of a first procedure for manufacturing the carrying system 72 according to Fig. 6. First, in step 100, the bottles 74 are arranged in two rows, with the bottles 74 spaced apart from each other along the rows. Then, in step 102, the bottle carrier 10 is placed in a flat state (see figure). Fig. 1) placed on the bottles 74 so that the bottles 74 are held in the receiving recesses 16a-16f. Finally, in steps 104 and 106, which are to be carried out simultaneously, the bottles are brought closer together along the rows until they touch, and the handle section 30 is extended upwards beyond the cover section 23 of the support element 12. Finally, in step 108, a fixing band 84 can be applied around the bottles 74.

[0082] Fig. Figure 8 shows a flowchart of a second procedure for manufacturing the carrying system 72 according to Fig. 6. In step 200, bottles 74 are arranged in two rows, with the bottles 74 touching along the rows and typically transversely to the rows. Independently of step 200, in step 202, a bottle carrier 10 is lifted from its flat state according to Fig. 1 into an unfolded state, cf. Fig. 5. For this purpose, the roof-like folds 68 are unfolded along the fold lines 32a-32c. It should be noted that the retaining sections 18 of the receiving recesses 16a-16f are preferably in the flat state during step 202 (cf. Fig. 1) remain. Then, in step 204, the unfolded bottle carrier 10 is placed onto the touching bottles 74, so that the bottles 74 are held in the receiving recesses 16a-16f. Finally, in step 206, a fixing band 84 can be applied around the bottles 74. Reference symbol list: 10 bottle carriers 12 Supporting element 13 Cutting 14a, 14b rows 16a -16f Exemptions 18 stopping sections 20 slots 22 bending edges 23 Deck section 24, 24a, 24b perforation line 26 free margin 28 punch lines 30 Handle section 32a, 32b, 32c Fold lines 34 Endpoint 35, 35' distance 36 dashed lines 38a, 38b, 38c, 38d Reinforcing element 40a, 40b Longitudinal edges 42a, 42b, 42c, 42d, 42e, 42f, 42g, 42h Strip sections 44 Cutting 46 Support element 48 common reinforcement section 50 bending edge 52 Punch line 53a, 53b Location 54a, 54b, 54c Fold lines 56 Cutting 58 Support element 60 lateral reinforcement sections 62 bending edges 64 punch lines 66a, 66b, 66c Fold lines 68 folds 70a, 70b flanks 71a, 71b Cut edges 72 Carrying system 74 bottles 76 bodies 78 Closure 80 collars 82 maximum diameter 84 fixing tape 86 Floor Arrange 100 bottles at intervals in two rows 102 Placing a bottle carrier in a flat position on the bottles 104 Bringing the bottles closer together 106 Highlighting the handle section 108 Applying a fixation tape 200 Arranging bottles touching each other in two rows 202 Unfolding a bottle carrier along fold lines 204 Placing the unfolded bottle carrier on the bottles 206 Applying a fixation band

Claims

[1] Bottle carrier (10) with a support element (12; 46; 58) consisting of a cellulose-containing flat material, in particular cardboard or paper, in which two rows (14a, 14b) of three receiving recesses (16a-16f) each for holding one bottle (74) are formed, and in which a grip section (30) is formed between two punched lines (28, 52, 64) extending along the two rows (14a, 14b), wherein at least one fold line (32a-32c, 54a-54c, 66a-66c) transverse to the rows is formed between two opposing, central receiving recesses (16b, 16e) of the two rows (14a, 14b) and the respective following receiving recesses (16a, 16c, 16d, 16f) of the two rows (14a, 14b). (14a, 14b) proceeds. [2] Bottle carrier (10) according to claim 1, characterized by , that the punch lines (28, 52, 64) run between two opposing, middle receiving recesses (16b, 16e) of the two rows (14a, 14b). [3] Bottle carrier (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that between the middle and the following recording recesses (16a-16f) there are three fold lines (32a-32c, 54a-54c, 66a-66c) perpendicular to the rows (14a, 14b). [4] Bottle carrier (10) according to claim 3, characterized by , that the die-cutting lines (28, 52, 64) end at the two middle fold lines (32b, 54b, 66b). [5] Bottle carrier (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the punch lines (28, 52, 64) run away from each other at their ends. [6] Bottle carrier (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the punch lines (28, 52, 64) extend towards a central receiving recess (16b, 16e) of the nearest row (14a, 14b). [7] Bottle carrier (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by, that the supporting element (46; 58) is designed in multiple layers, in particular in two layers, at least in the area of ​​the two rows (14a, 14b) of receiving recesses (16a-16f). [8] Bottle carrier (10) according to claim 7, characterized by , that the supporting element (58) has a lateral reinforcement section (60) for each row (14a, 14b) of receiving recesses (16a-16f). [9] Bottle carrier (10) according to claim 8, characterized by , that the two lateral reinforcement sections (60) and a deck section (23) of the supporting element (58) are formed in one piece, and that the two lateral reinforcement sections (60) are each folded under the deck section (23). [10] Bottle carrier (10) according to claim 9, characterized by , that the supporting element (46) for both rows (14a, 14b) of receiving recesses (16a-16f) has a common reinforcing section (48). [11] Bottle carrier (10) according to claim 10, characterized by, that the common reinforcement section (48) and a deck section (23) of the supporting element (46) are formed in one piece, and that the common reinforcement section (48) is folded under the deck section (23). [12] Bottle carrier (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the support element (12; 46; 58) has a reinforcing element (38a-38d) in the area of ​​the handle section (30). [13] Bottle carrier (10) according to claim 12, characterized by , that the reinforcing element (38a-38d) is formed with a paper strip, in particular a longitudinally folded one. [14] Bottle carrier (10) according to any one of claims 1 to 6, characterized by , that the supporting element (12) is designed as a single layer. [15] Bottle carrier (10) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the support element (12; 46; 58)) has a perforation line (24; 24a, 24b) extending from the receiving recess (16a-16f) to a free edge of the support element at each of the receiving recesses (16a-16f). [16] Cut (13; 44; 56) of cellulose-containing flat material for producing a support element (12; 46; 58) for a bottle carrier (10) according to one of the preceding claims. [17] carrying system (72) - a bottle carrier (10) according to one of claims 1 to 15 and - a plurality of identical bottles (74), wherein a distance (35) between the central receiving recesses (16b, 16e) of the two rows (14a, 14b) and the respective adjoining receiving recesses (16a, 16c, 16d, 16f) measured along the rows (14a, 14b) in a flat state of the support element (12; 46; 58) is greater than a maximum diameter (82) of the bottles (74). [18] Carrying system (72) according to claim 17, further comprising a fixing band (84) for gripping the bottles (74), preferably wherein the fixing band (84) consists of a cellulose-containing flat material, in particular cardboard or paper. [19] Carrying system (72) according to claim 18, wherein one of the bottles (74) is held in each of the receiving recesses (16a-16f) of the bottle carrier (10), and wherein the fixing band (84) surrounds the entirety of the bottles (74) at a distance from the bottle carrier (10). [20] Method for manufacturing a support system (72) according to any one of claims 17 to 19, comprising the steps a) Arranging (100) the bottles (74) in two rows, the bottles (74) being spaced apart from each other along the rows, b) Placing (102) the bottle carrier (10) in a flat state so that the bottles (74) are received in the receiving recesses (16a-16f), c) Bringing the bottles (74) closer together (104) and extending (106) the handle section (30) over a deck section (23) of the support element (12; 46; 58) of the bottle carrier (10). [21] Method for manufacturing a carrying system (72) comprising a bottle carrier (10) according to claim 3 and a plurality of identical bottles (74), comprising the steps A) Arranging (200) the bottles (74) in two rows, with the bottles (74) touching along the rows, B) Unfolding (202) the bottle carrier (10) along the fold lines (32a-32c, 54a-54c, 66a-66c) between the middle and following receiving recesses (16a-16f), C) Placing (204) the bottle carrier (10) onto the bottles (74) so ​​that the bottles (74) are received in the receiving recesses (16a-16f).

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