Packages consisting of grouped individual goods

Abstract

Container (1) consisting of grouped individual goods (2), comprising an outer packaging (3), the outer packaging (3) - a packaging strip (4) encircling the individual goods (2) in the manner of a banderole, wherein the packaging strip (4) is free of adhesive on its side facing the container (1) and has two end sections (6, 7) forming an overlap area (5) which are connected to each other, - and a separating element (8) which is designed to be arranged between at least two of the individual goods (2) in such a way that the at least two individual goods (2) do not touch each other, wherein the separating element (8) is arranged between at least two individual goods (2) and is held in the container (1) by a force-fit, in particular friction-fit, connection with the at least two individual goods (2).

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a container made up of grouped individual goods. The invention also relates to outer packaging. The invention also relates to a packaging system.

[0002] Band packaging has long been used to keep grouped individual items together and provide a carrying handle. European patent application EP 3 260 387 describes an outer packaging in which a packaging strip encircles the individual items as a band, is adhesive-free on its inner surface, and is welded at the overlap. The strip element, which serves as a carrying handle, is glued at its ends to both the packaging strip and each individual item. Furthermore, the individual items are glued to each other in a way that allows for at least partial detachable adhesion. These measures, in combination, ensure sufficient stability of the package for transport and handling.

[0003] In addition to such bands, shrink film packaging is also used. It offers high stability but requires additional equipment and a relatively large amount of packaging material. The method of banding overpacking outlined in EP 3 260 387 reduces material usage compared to full-surface shrink film. However, the stabilization achieved there relies heavily on adhesive bonding, including joining adjacent individual items via adhesive strips.

[0004] In practice, gluing individual items together has functional and economic disadvantages. Adhesive dots represent additional consumables. They increase process costs and can complicate reuse or the single-material recycling of individual item surfaces. Furthermore, EP 3 260 387 already points out that adhesive bonds between outer packaging and individual items can lead to undesirable interactions with applied labels. Although the inside of the packaging strip is adhesive-free, stabilization still occurs via glued end sections of the support element and adhesive joints between the individual items. This leaves adhesive-related contact points with the product surfaces.

[0005] A seemingly obvious way to avoid adhesive points would be a purely frictional solution achieved by increasing the tensile stress in the band. However, with typical cylindrical geometries, a significantly increased wrapping moment leads to relative movement. The individual cylinders can twist against each other and slip into the polygonal spaces. This causes the rows to become misaligned and the container to lose its shape stability. This "fiddling" results in the container developing a trapezoidal shape. Simply increasing the normal forces at the contact lines is therefore not a robust substitute for adhesive-based positioning.

[0006] Economically and ecologically, there is a growing need to reduce packaging materials and auxiliary materials, simplify processes, and improve the separability of product and outer packaging. Adhesives between individual items counteract these goals because they generate additional material flows and can affect the surfaces of the goods for subsequent processing steps. A band that does without such adhesives and still forms a stable, manageable package directly addresses these requirements.

[0007] Therefore, based on the aforementioned prior art, the object of the invention is to provide a container of grouped individual goods that does not require adhesive points between the individual goods, yet achieves high dimensional stability and transport safety, and can be manufactured with reduced material usage. At the same time, the container should allow for clean separation of the outer packaging and the individual goods and operate reliably without a significant increase in band tension, thus preventing misalignment of the rows and slippage of individual goods into gaps.

[0008] To solve this problem, the invention proposes a container of grouped individual goods, which includes an outer packaging. The outer packaging has a packaging strip that wraps around the individual goods in the manner of a band. The packaging strip is adhesive-free on its side facing the container and has two end sections forming an overlapping area, which are connected to each other. The outer packaging also has a separating element, which is designed to be positioned between at least two of the individual goods such that the at least two individual goods do not touch each other. The separating element is positioned between at least two individual goods and is held in place by a force-fit, in particular friction-fit, connection with the at least two individual goods in the container.

[0009] The separating element stabilizes the container during banding application and under subsequent loads. It prevents adjacent cylindrical items from twisting or shifting into the gaps. This is achieved through frictional engagement with each of the two items and by acting as a spacer, interrupting direct contact between the outer layers and blocking entry into the gap. Due to the separating element's flexibility, the line contact between the two items is transformed into two separate contact surfaces, resulting in a more even distribution of surface pressure, reduced local stress peaks, and less sensitivity to moisture, condensation, or varnished labels. Stabilization is therefore no longer dependent on random surface properties of the product, but on a defined component with a specifically designed surface.

[0010] The process of banding allows the band to be applied with reduced tensile tension. Secure positioning is achieved even at lower band tension, i.e., the tension in the packaging strip. This reduces the tendency for row misalignment and better tolerates diameter variations and label joints. The packaging system can be set up more robustly, and higher band speeds are possible without loss of stability. At the same time, the product surfaces and labels of individual items remain undamaged. Separation of outer packaging and product is facilitated, and the overall appearance of the package is improved.

[0011] Mechanically, the separating element increases the overall package's dimensional stability. The group exhibits higher lateral shear stiffness, the rows remain aligned even under stacking loads, and relative movement of individual products during impacts and drops is limited. Since adhesives between individual products are eliminated, the consumption of auxiliary materials, cleaning, and setup costs are reduced. Furthermore, the packaging strip can be made thinner. This reduces material and energy consumption without compromising transport safety.

[0012] The outer packaging according to the invention has a packaging strip that wraps around the individual goods in the manner of a band. The packaging strip is designed to be adhesive-free on its inner side facing the container, so that no adhesion occurs. The packaging strip adheres to the individual items within the container. This has the advantage that any labels attached to the individual items are not unintentionally removed or damaged when the outer packaging is opened or removed. Unlike shrink film surrounding the entire container, using a packaging strip significantly reduces the amount of packaging material required, thus minimizing packaging waste and resulting in a substantial weight reduction. This benefits the environment, and the reduced weight also leads to cost savings during transport.

[0013] The term "band-like" can be understood to mean that a substantially elongated, band-shaped packaging strip wraps around the grouped individual goods at least once and is joined at two ends to form a closed ring, leaving the ends of the individual goods essentially free. Preferably, the packaging strip runs laterally around the grouped goods, has a constant width or a width that varies along its length, and is joined by an overlapping or butt joint. The packaging strip can be single- or multi-layered, stretchable or non-stretchable, and may have cutouts, slots, or openings for handling.

[0014] The packaging strip has two end sections. When packaged, these form an overlapping area where the two end sections are joined. This connection can be made by gluing or welding.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment, the two end sections are welded together. In contrast to the prior art, the end sections of the packaging strip that form the overlap area are welded together instead of glued. This allows for greater flexibility in the number of individual items that can be grouped into a single package. Furthermore, welding creates the possibility of a tear-off tab, enabling the user to easily and conveniently open the outer packaging. Welding can be performed thermally or mechanically. In particular, it can be done by ultrasonic welding or heat sealing.

[0016] A separating element can be understood as a separate component or one integrated into the outer packaging, positioned between at least two individual items. It prevents direct contact between the outer surfaces of these items, maintains a defined distance, and is held in place in the assembled container without adhesive, by frictional and / or form-fitting means. The separating element can be made of a fiber-based material such as cardboard, paperboard, or paper laminate. Alternatively, it can be made of a polymeric material, a foam, a fiber composite, or a multi-layered structure. Advantageously, the separating element exhibits elastic and / or plastically deformable properties under surface pressure, allowing the contact zones to conform to the outer surfaces of the individual items and thus increasing frictional engagement.

[0017] It is understood by the expert that the container can have more than one separating element.

[0018] The dimensions of the separating element can be selected such that it extends over the entire height of the individual items or only over a partial area, particularly so that the opening or base remains free. In the longitudinal direction, it can be continuous or segmented, forming several contact sections arranged in a row. The thickness of the separating element is advantageously selected to establish a defined minimum distance between adjacent items without adversely increasing the circumference of the packaging strip. In the assembled state, the separating element is preferably held in place by the contact pressure of the packaging strip, forming a self-retaining friction fit. It can additionally be positioned in guides, recesses, notches, or folds of the packaging strip to prevent slippage during assembly and transport.

[0019] The surfaces facing the container can have a friction-enhancing surface structure, in particular ribbing, embossing, or micro-roughness, or a coating that promotes adhesion. Edge areas can be rounded or compressible to protect labels and the surfaces of individual products. The separating element can be moisture-resistant, oil- and condensate-resistant, or hydrophobic to ensure consistent friction under varying environmental conditions. It is preferably recyclable and made of a single material or a composite material, optionally food-safe, and can be designed for reuse or separated by type together with the packaging strip after use.

[0020] The term "held by a frictional connection" means that the separating element in the assembled container is held in frictional contact solely due to the contact pressure between its surface and the outer surfaces of the adjacent individual items, thus remaining in its intended position without being physically bonded to the individual items. The holding effect is designed to reliably absorb at least the weight of the separating element as well as the forces occurring during normal handling, internal transport, order picking, palletizing, transport, and placement on the shelf, including vibrations, shocks, and acceleration, so that the separating element neither comes loose nor noticeably changes its position.This is particularly the case when the pressure exerted by the packaging strip, together with the coefficient of friction acting on the contact surfaces, provides a static friction force that exceeds the disruptive forces acting on the separating element. The necessary pressure can be achieved through the tensile force of the packaging strip, elastic restoring forces and local compressibility of the separating element, and by a surface-wide adaptation to the outer surfaces of the individual goods. Any existing guides, recesses, or folds in the packaging strip can assist positioning without altering the type of holding effect, which remains friction-based. Preferably, the holding effect is ensured throughout the entire duration of the usual logistics process chain until the container is opened, even with fluctuations in temperature, humidity, and surface condition of the individual goods that can be expected in practice, within normal limits.

[0021] The packaging strip, together with the separating element, is designed and coordinated in such a way that the container remains dimensionally stable under normal handling. This means that the individual items maintain their relative position and neither twist nor shift into gaps. This is particularly true during picking up, setting down, carrying by the handle (if provided), internal transport, palletizing and depalletizing, transport with typical shock and vibration, and under typical stacking loads. The crucial holding effect results from the pressure exerted by the packaging strip and the frictional and, where applicable, positive locking interaction with the separating element, so that row misalignment, sleeve-to-sleeve sliding, and sinking into polygonal gaps are reliably prevented or limited to a degree that does not noticeably impair safe handling or the external shape of the container.In particular, the container can thus be kept in an essentially rectangular shape.

[0022] According to a further feature of the invention, it is provided that the individual goods are arranged next to each other in the container without adhesive.

[0023] This advantageously achieves the necessary dimensional stability for securing the packaging without the use of adhesives, as stabilization relies on the interaction of the packaging strip and the separating element. The surfaces and labels of the individual items remain intact, individual removal is facilitated, no adhesive residue is left in the gaps, and the separation of goods and outer packaging is improved. At the same time, the application of adhesive, with its sensitivities to temperature and humidity, is eliminated, thus widening the process window for banding and reducing the need for materials and auxiliary substances.

[0024] The term "adhesive-free" can be understood to mean that adjacent individual items arranged side by side in a bundle are not joined to each other by an adhesive and that no adhesive-based bond is provided between their outer surfaces, in particular that no adhesive dots, adhesive strips, adhesive pads or similar adhesive agents are used to secure the position of the adjacent individual items. This does not include mere contact without adhesive, pressure exerted by the packaging strip through friction, holding by means of the separating element, or connections outside the area of ​​the adjacent individual items, such as the adhesive joining of the end sections of the packaging strip by welding or heat sealing.Product-related labels or seals that adhere to the individual goods regardless of the packaging function remain unaffected, provided they do not serve to secure the position between adjacent individual goods.

[0025] According to a further feature of the invention, it is provided that the individual goods are held in the container by a force-fit, in particular friction-fit, connection to each other, to the packaging strip or to the separating element.

[0026] This advantageously achieves that the holding forces required for positional stability are provided without adhesives, and that dimensional stability results from the pressure generated by the packaging strip and the coefficients of friction acting at the contact surfaces. The tendency for row misalignment and sinking into gaps is reduced, the surfaces and labels of the individual products remain undamaged, the process window for banding is widened, and the need for auxiliary materials decreases because neither adhesive application nor its conditioning is required.

[0027] The term "held within the package" means that the individual items remain in the position they were in when the packaging strip was closed and, even under normal handling, including picking up, carrying, conveying, palletizing, and transport with typical shocks and vibrations, as well as under typical stacking loads, neither come out of the package nor change their relative position to a degree that impairs functionality. The holding effect is provided solely by the contact pressures and the resulting frictional forces at the contact surfaces between the individual item and the packaging strip, between the individual item and the separating element, and, where applicable, between adjacent individual items, without the need for adhesive bonding between adjacent items or any mechanical locking mechanism between them.The material-bonded connections in the overlap area of ​​the packaging strip, which serve to close the banderole and do not ensure the positioning between adjacent individual goods, remain unaffected.

[0028] According to a further feature of the invention, the separating element is provided to be essentially flat.

[0029] This advantageously achieves a large-area, uniform pressure against the outer surfaces of adjacent individual products, ensuring a reliable frictional connection without creating localized pressure peaks. The flat design facilitates insertion between two rows, reduces material consumption, improves stackability and cutting during the manufacturing process, and promotes sorting by type after use. At the same time, the outer contour of the container remains compact, as the separating element only slightly increases the circumference of the packaging strip.

[0030] The term "essentially flat" means that the separating element has a plate- or sheet-like geometry with a thickness that is significantly less than its dimensions lying in the plane, such that the ratio of the greatest in-plane extent to the thickness is at least ten and preferably twenty to two hundred. The ratio of the height of the separating element to its thickness is preferably at least ten, and particularly twenty to one hundred. The thickness of the separating element can range from about 0.2 millimeters to 5 millimeters. In typical embodiments with fiber-based materials, the thickness of the separating element can range from about 0.3 millimeters to 1.5 millimeters. For polymeric or foam-like materials, the thickness of the separating element can range from about 0.5 millimeters to 3 millimeters.Local functional structures such as embossing, ribbing, micro-roughness, edge compaction or slight upstands, which serve to increase the coefficient of friction, stabilize edges or soften edges, do not contradict the understanding of "essentially flat", provided that the basic planar shape is maintained and the thickness is only changed to a subordinate extent beyond the aforementioned area.

[0031] According to a further feature of the invention, the separating element is made of paper or cardboard.

[0032] This advantageously achieves the use of a cost-effective, lightweight, and easily processed material with suitable flexibility and sufficient surface stiffness. Under pressure, this material conforms elastically and, if necessary, slightly plastically to the outer surfaces of the individual products, thus increasing friction without creating local pressure peaks or damaging labels. Its availability in large sheets, ease of cutting and die-cutting, and good printability and embossing properties facilitate reliable production and adaptation to different container geometries. At the same time, the fiber-based material promotes the separation of materials by type after use and supports uniform recycling. Furthermore, paper and cardboard are considered environmentally friendly.

[0033] The term "paper" can be understood to mean a predominantly fiber-based material made from primary and / or secondary cellulose, possibly with common fillers, additives, and sizing agents, with a typical basis weight of up to approximately 250 grams per square meter and a thickness in the lower tenths of a millimeter range to a few tenths of a millimeter, available in planar sheets or blanks. The term "cardboard" can be understood to mean a material that is also predominantly fiber-based, possibly multi-layered, with a higher basis weight and thickness, particularly in the range of approximately 200 to 600 grams per square meter and a thickness in the higher tenths of a millimeter range to a few millimeters, offering increased bending and edge stability and suitable for larger spans or recurring stresses within packaging.The values ​​mentioned are guideline ranges and serve to define the scope of the application without specifying strict limits. The cardboard may have individual layers that do not lie flat against the other layers, but rather form cavities within the cardboard through three-dimensional shaping, such as a corrugation, thereby increasing the thickness of the cardboard while maintaining the same basis weight. This can contribute, in particular, to increased stiffness of the cardboard.

[0034] The phrase "consists of paper or cardboard" is to be understood as including finishing and treatments of the fiber-based base material, provided they are subordinate to the paper or cardboard in terms of quantity and function and do not alter its material-defining character. This includes, in particular, printing inks, coatings, varnishes, hydrophobic or oil- and moisture-repellent coatings, embossing and application materials that adjust the coefficient of friction, as well as the usual laminating and adhesive components at the layer boundaries in multi-layered grades. Such additions do not preclude the understanding "consists of paper or cardboard" as long as the fiber-based component predominates and the mechanical and tribological properties of the separating element remain primarily determined by the paper or cardboard.

[0035] According to a further feature of the invention, it is provided that the individual goods are arranged in at least two rows, with the separating element being arranged between the two rows.

[0036] This advantageously achieves directional positioning, because the banding force, in combination with the separating element, acts evenly on two aligned groups. Direct contact between the groups is eliminated, local pressure peaks are reduced, and lateral displacement into gaps is effectively prevented. The dimensional stability of the container increases, row misalignment is reduced, and the banding process window is expanded, as a secure hold is achieved even with moderate pressure.

[0037] The term "row" can be understood to mean that a multitude, i.e. at least two, of individual goods are arranged in parallel orientation such that the centers of their cross-sections in plan view lie essentially on a common, straight axis and the individual goods follow each other along this axis at close intervals, so that a straight line is formed.

[0038] The packaging is not limited to two rows. With more than two rows, a divider can be provided between each pair of adjacent rows, creating a staggered multi-row arrangement with several dividers. The divider is positioned and dimensioned so that the rows extend along the length of the packaging and each row contains at least as many individual items as there are rows in the packaging, ensuring that the packaging maintains its elongated shape and that the load paths resulting from the banding run along the rows.

[0039] According to a further feature of the invention, the separating element divides the quantity of individual goods into two parts, each of which has an identical number of individual goods.

[0040] This achieves an essentially mirror-symmetrical load and force distribution: The pressure generated by the packaging strip and the frictional forces are distributed evenly on both sides of the separating element, the center of gravity of the container lies close to the central plane, tilting moments are reduced, row misalignment is effectively limited, and dimensional stability under stacking load, shock, and vibration is improved. At the same time, the process window for banding can be enlarged because, with a uniform normal force distribution, lower band tension forces are sufficient, and the system is less sensitive to diameter variations, label impacts, or fluctuations in the coefficient of friction. The function of any carrying handle is also made more reliable by the centered load path.

[0041] The phrase "the separating element divides the quantity of individual items into two parts, each containing an identical number of items" can be understood to mean that the total number of items is even and that the arrangement is partitioned without overlap into two disjoint groups, which are identical in number and located on either side of the separating element. In preferred embodiments, the two parts correspond to the two rows between which the separating element is arranged. The parts each extend along the longitudinal axis of the container, such that each row contains at least as many items as the container has rows, and the alignment of the rows is maintained.In variants with more than two rows, the equal distribution can be maintained by positioning and dimensioning the separating element so that the subgroups formed on both sides each have the same number of individual items and the principle of symmetry and stability is preserved.

[0042] According to a further feature of the invention, it is provided that the container is held together exclusively by tensile stress in the packaging strip and / or the forces induced between the individual goods by the tensile stress in the packaging strip.

[0043] This advantageously achieves that the positioning is secured without adhesives, additional binders, nets, bridges, or mechanical locking mechanisms, resulting solely from the coordinated interplay of band tension, applied normal forces, and static friction. This simplifies the packaging process, expands the permissible adjustment range of the banding machine, reduces material and auxiliary material consumption, protects the product surfaces, and improves the separation of goods and outer packaging by type, while maintaining high dimensional stability during handling, transport, palletizing, and storage.

[0044] The statement that the package is "held together exclusively by tensile stress in the packaging strip and / or the forces induced by the tensile stress in the packaging strip between the individual items" can be understood to mean that the holding effect results solely from the tensile force present in the closed packaging strip and the resulting normal forces and static friction forces at the contact surfaces, in particular between the packaging strip and individual items, as well as between adjacent items and, where applicable, between items and the separating element. Other holding mechanisms, in particular adhesive bonds between adjacent items, separate strapping, shrink wrap, or positive locking mechanisms, are not required and are not used for securing the package.The material bond between the end sections of the packaging strip in the overlap area, forming the closed ring, remains unaffected, as this serves to close the band and not to directly connect adjacent individual items. In this context, "held together" means that the individual items remain in the relative position they assumed during sealing and, even under normal handling including picking up, carrying, conveying, palletizing, transport with typical shock and vibration, as well as under typical stacking loads, do not come loose from the assembly or change their position to a degree that impairs its appearance or function.

[0045] According to a further feature of the invention, it is provided that the individual items of the container form a top surface, wherein the separating element has a projection tab which protrudes at least partially beyond the top surface.

[0046] This advantageously achieves the effect that the separating element provides a functional zone above the top surface formed by the individual goods, which serves on the one hand as a starting point for handling and gripping and on the other hand can be used as a base for covering the top surface without providing additional components.

[0047] The term "top" can be understood to mean the surface or imaginary reference plane that, when the container is used as intended, faces upwards and is formed by the highest end faces of the individual items or by their common bottom surface, with the opposite side being considered the bottom. The term "projection" can be understood to mean that the overhang extends vertically beyond the top by a free height of at least five millimeters, preferably ten to one hundred millimeters, and particularly fifteen to eighty millimeters. The overhang length can correspond to the average diameter of an individual item, so that a securely grippable and mechanically usable section is available above the top.

[0048] According to a further feature of the invention, the separating element has a carrying handle, particularly at the overhang.

[0049] This advantageously achieves that the container can be carried without additional handle components, the load paths are introduced centrally into the separating element, and handling is ergonomically improved.

[0050] The term "carrying handle" can be understood to mean that the separating element provides a section that can be grasped by the user's hand, is positioned above the top surface in the carrying position, and allows the entire container to be lifted and carried, in particular in the form of a handle bridge formed on the overhanging tab with at least one continuous carrying opening for fingers or hand. The carrying opening can have an oval or elongated shape with a length of approximately sixty to one hundred and twenty millimeters and a height of approximately fifteen to thirty-five millimeters and can be reinforced for protection against tearing and for load distribution, in particular by a double layer of material, a folded edge, a fold, or an applied reinforcing layer, whereby the edge zones of the opening can be rounded or compacted.

[0051] According to a further feature of the invention, the separating element is arranged between the individual goods in such a way that the static frictional force between the separating element and the individual goods is greater, in particular at least 1.5 times greater, than the weight of the container.

[0052] This advantageously ensures that the separating element can be reliably used as a carrying handle in the carrying position, since the clamping force from the band tension together with the coefficient of friction acting on the contact surfaces provides a holding force that reliably exceeds the dead weight and usual accelerations when lifting and moving.

[0053] Under the aforementioned condition, it can be understood that the total static friction generated by the pressure of the packaging strip between the separating element and the individual items in contact on both sides exceeds the weight of the entire package by a safety factor, specifically by a factor of at least 1.5, preferably by a factor of 2, particularly by a factor of 2.5, and especially by a factor of 3, so that shock and vibration components during manual carrying and setting down are also absorbed. In applications with rough handling, the safety factor can be increased further without deviating from the principle, provided that the interplay of strip tension, material compliance of the separating element, and coefficients of friction provides the required holding force.

[0054] According to a further feature of the invention, the overhang tab has two tabs which are designed to at least partially cover a part, preferably one of the two halves, of the upper surface.

[0055] This advantageously achieves that the top surface is protected against dust, moisture and abrasion, creating a smooth surface that is easy to stack and print on, while in an alternative position of the same components a carrying handle is provided without having to provide additional components.

[0056] The term "tab" can be understood to mean a continuous section, pivotable relative to the rest of the separating element along a fold line, adjustable between a covering position and a carrying position. In the covering position, it rests on or overlaps the top surface, at least partially, and in the carrying position, it projects out of the plane of the top surface, so that both tabs together form and / or provide the carrying handle. In the covered position, the tabs preferably each cover half of the top surface, and in the raised position, they either lie against each other or overlap to form a handle bridge. A carrying opening may be provided, and local reinforcement, in particular by a double layer of material or folded edges, may be provided to ensure that the load can be borne permanently and without tearing.

[0057] In the covered position, both flaps still have a carrying opening that forms a carrying handle, which, however, due to the position of the flaps, is only of limited use for carrying the container.

[0058] The invention further proposes an outer packaging according to the description above.

[0059] This has the same advantages as those achieved with the container according to the invention.

[0060] The outer packaging is designed to form a container together with a number of individual goods.

[0061] The outer packaging features a band-shaped strip that wraps around the individual items at least once, similar to a band, and whose ends are joined to form a closed ring. The side of the packaging strip facing the container is free of adhesive. The ends can be joined by welding or heat sealing, or alternatively by a form-fit or force-fit connection, without applying any adhesive to the inside.

[0062] The outer packaging also features a separating element designed to be positioned between at least two individual items, interrupting direct contact between the individual items and providing a defined distance between them. When installed, the separating element can be held securely in place solely by surface pressure at the contact surfaces. Adhesive bonding to the individual items is not required. The holding effect can be achieved through the pressure exerted by the packaging strip and the surface properties of the separating element.

[0063] The outer packaging can be designed so that the individual items are held together in the assembled state solely by the tensile stress of the packaging strip and the resulting normal forces and static friction forces. Positioning secured by adhesive dots between adjacent items is not required. The packaging strip can be single- or multi-layered, stretchable or non-stretchable, and its width can be constant or vary in sections. It can have cutouts, slots, or openings for handling without affecting the adhesive-free inner surface.

[0064] The separating element can be essentially flat. Its dimensions lying in the plane are significantly greater than its thickness. A ratio of the largest in-plane extent to the thickness of at least ten is advantageous; values ​​of twenty to two hundred are preferably achievable. The thickness can range from approximately 0.2 millimeters to 5 millimeters. For fiber-based materials, approximately 0.3 to 1.5 millimeters may be preferred. For polymeric or foam-like materials, approximately 0.5 to 3 millimeters may be advantageous. Local embossing, ribbing, or edge compaction can be provided to increase the coefficient of friction without compromising the basic flat shape.

[0065] The separating element can exhibit elastic and, if necessary, locally plastic flexibility under surface pressure, allowing the contact zones to conform to the outer surfaces of the individual products and increasing friction. The surfaces of the separating element facing the container can have a friction-enhancing structure or coating. Edge areas can be rounded or compressible to protect labels. The separating element can extend over the entire height of the individual products or only over a portion, for example, leaving the mouth or base areas free. The separating element can be continuous or segmented in the longitudinal direction.

[0066] The separating element can be made of paper or cardboard. Paper can be understood to be a predominantly fiber-based material with a typical basis weight of up to approximately 250 grams per square meter. Cardboard can be understood to be a predominantly fiber-based, possibly multi-layered material with a higher basis weight, in particular approximately 200 to 600 grams per square meter. Finishes and treatments such as printing inks, coatings, varnishes, hydrophobic coatings, or friction-adjusting applications can be included, provided they are quantitatively subtracted from the fiber-based base material and do not alter its material-defining characteristics. Alternatively, polymeric materials, foams, fiber composites, or multi-layered structures can be used, provided they offer the described flexibility and frictional properties.

[0067] The outer packaging may incorporate guides, recesses, notches, or folds on the packaging strip in which the separating element can be positioned to facilitate assembly and prevent slippage during handling, transport, and storage. The positional relationship between the packaging strip and the separating element may be designed such that the achievable static friction force in the assembled state is at least one and a half times the weight of the container covered by the outer packaging. Safety factors of two to three may preferably be incorporated to reliably absorb shock and vibration during lifting and carrying.

[0068] The separating element may have a projecting tab that, when in use, extends beyond the top surface formed by the individual items. The top surface can be understood as the plane that, when used as intended, faces upwards and is formed by the highest end faces of the individual items. "Protrusion" can be understood as the projecting tab extending at least 5 millimeters vertically beyond this plane. Values ​​of 10 to 100 millimeters may be preferred. Alternatively, a relative height corresponding to the average diameter of the individual items may be advantageous. The projecting tab may comprise two tabs that are adjustable along a fold line relative to the rest of the separating element. The tabs may be adjustable between a covering position, in which they each at least partially cover a portion of the top surface, and a carrying position, in which both tabs together provide a carrying handle.

[0069] The carrying handle can be designed as a handle bridge above the top surface. One or more continuous carrying openings can be provided, which can be gripped by hand. Opening lengths of approximately 60 to 120 millimeters and opening heights of approximately 15 to 35 millimeters can be ergonomically advantageous. The edges of the carrying openings can be reinforced, in particular by a double layer of material, a folded edge, or a fold, to prevent tearing and to distribute the load permanently.

[0070] The outer packaging can be dimensioned and designed so that, when used with individual items, it divides the quantity of items into two parts, preferably of identical number, ensuring that the load distribution on both sides of the separating element is uniform and the center of gravity is located near the central plane. This allows the tensile forces acting on the packaging strips and the frictional forces acting on the contact surfaces to be introduced symmetrically, reducing tilting moments and widening the process window for strip tension and tolerances.

[0071] Finally, the outer packaging can be designed to provide dimensionally stable positioning during normal handling, internal transport, palletizing, and storage, without the need for adhesives between adjacent individual items. The separation of the outer packaging and the goods by type remains facilitated, and the requirement for materials and auxiliary substances can be reduced, as the stabilization results from the interplay of belt tension, geometry, and the frictional effect of the separating element.

[0072] The invention further proposes a packaging system for the production of a container described above, in particular from an outer packaging described above and at least two individual goods.

[0073] The packaging system for producing the container described above can include at least one feeding device for the individual items, a grouping and positioning device for forming at least two aligned rows, a dispensing and insertion device for the separating element, a banding unit with controlled tension application for the packaging strip, and a sealing device for the end sections of the packaging strip. The feeding device can include conveyors, singulators, and side guides that transfer the individual items synchronously to a format holder, where the row alignment is stabilized. The insertion device can separate the separating element from a magazine and position it in the separating plane between the rows, thus preventing direct contact between the rows.The banding unit can unwind the packaging strip or feed it from blanks to wrap the individual goods laterally like a band, and apply an adjustable band tension. The sealing device can join the end sections of the packaging strip to form a closed ring, preferably by welding or heat sealing, or alternatively by form-fitting or force-fitting, without using adhesive on the inner side facing the container.

[0074] A post-pressing and calibration station is advantageously provided, which, after the banderole is closed, establishes a defined surface pressure between the packaging strip, separating element, and individual items, ensuring that the required frictional connection is achieved reproducibly without encouraging twisting or lateral displacement of the individual items. A control unit can monitor and adjust the band tension, the contact path, and the position of the rows in real time, for which force, displacement, and image sensors can be used. The system can be designed to operate without adhesive points between adjacent items. Adhesive application equipment is not required.

[0075] Optionally, the system can include stations for processing the overhanging tab formed on the separating element, in particular a folding station for adjusting the tabs between the covering and carrying positions, a punching or cutting station for creating carrying openings, and a reinforcement station that strengthens the edge zones of the carrying openings by folding, creasing, or double-layering. Furthermore, testing and rejection stations can be provided for dimensional accuracy, the presence and position of the separating element, correct band closure, and sufficient frictional engagement characteristics. Additionally, format change devices for different diameters, row counts, and packaging strip widths, as well as discharge and transfer devices for palletizing, can be included.

[0076] The packaging plant can be configured to carry out a process for manufacturing a container as described above. This process is described below.

[0077] According to the invention, the method comprises at least arranging the individual goods in at least two aligned rows, inserting a separating element between the two rows in an intermediate separating plane, attaching an adhesive-free packaging strip on the side facing the container in the manner of a banderole around the arranged individual goods, and joining the two end sections of the packaging strip to form a closed ring, so that the packaging strip together with the separating element creates a force-fit holding effect and holds the individual goods in their relative position in the container.

[0078] Preferably, the method additionally comprises feeding, singulating, and aligning the individual goods, positioning them synchronously in a format holder, providing and singulating the separating element from a magazine, positioning the separating element in the separating plane without direct contact between the rows, applying a defined tensile stress when applying the packaging strip, re-pressing and calibrating after joining the end sections to achieve a reproducible surface pressure and static friction force, checking the achieved holding effect against a target criterion where the total static friction between the separating element and the individual goods reaches at least one and a half times the weight of the container and preferably provides factors of two to three, and producing and optionally reinforcing carrying openings on a cantilevered tab formed on the separating element.Adjusting the tabs of the overhanging handle between a covering position and a carrying position, marking and labeling the outer packaging, rejecting defective units, and removing, palletizing, and securing the finished containers.

[0079] This method is advantageous because it provides adhesive-free and process-reliable positioning of individual items, ensures the dimensional stability of the container even at moderate belt tension, and thereby expands the permissible adjustment range. Row misalignment and slippage into gaps are reduced, the surfaces and labels of the individual items remain undamaged, the need for auxiliary materials decreases, setup and cleaning times are shortened, and output increases, since the holding effect results from the coordinated interaction of belt tension, separating element geometry, and friction coefficients, and is tolerant of diameter variations, label impacts, and changing environmental conditions.

[0080] Further advantages and features of the invention will become apparent from the following description with reference to the figures. These show Fig. 1. A container according to the invention in an isometric view in a first state; and Fig. 2 a container according to the invention in an isometric view in a second state.

[0081] The Fig. Figure 1 shows a container 1 in an isometric view. The container 1 consists of four individual items 2, which are beverage cans, and an outer packaging 3 that holds the individual items 2 together. The outer packaging in turn consists of two parts: a packaging strip 4 and a divider 8.

[0082] The packaging strip 4 is designed as a band that wraps around the individual goods 2 laterally. The packaging strip 4 is under tensile tension, so that the individual goods 2 are pressed against each other, thereby generating a normal force between the individual goods 2.

[0083] When the packaging strip 4 is positioned on the container 1, it is ring-shaped. However, to be attached to the container 1, it is initially strip-shaped and is joined into a ring shape during the attachment process. For this purpose, the packaging strip 4 has two end sections 6 and 7, at which the packaging strip 4 is joined during the manufacture of the container 1. The packaging strip 4 is designed to be longer than the circumference of the quantity of individual goods 2 to be added to the container 1, so that an overlap area 5 is formed in which the first end section 6 and the second end section 7 are joined together. This is done by welding.

[0084] In container 1, the individual items 2 are arranged in several, here two, rows. An intermediate space is created between these two rows. The separating element 8 is located in this intermediate space.

[0085] The separating element 8 is flat and made of cardboard. It separates the two rows of individual items 2 from each other in such a way that the individual items 2 of one row do not touch the individual items 2 of the other row. However, since a normal force exists between the individual items 2 due to the tensile stress of the packaging strip 4, the separating element 8 is clamped between the individual items 2. The clamping force is sufficient to hold the separating element 8 in its position.

[0086] The separating element 8 projects beyond the top surface of the individual items 2 by means of a projection 10. The projection 10 has a carrying handle 11. This carrying handle 11 is formed by a corresponding opening in the projection 10.

[0087] In Fig.Figure 2 shows that the overhang flap 10 consists of two flaps 12, 13. These can each be folded to one side. In this state, they cover the top 9 of the individual items 2. However, it is also possible to fold the flaps 12, 13 back up, forming the carrying handle 11. Reference sign 1 container 2 individual items 3 Outer packaging 4 packaging strips 5 Overlap area 6 First final section 7 Second final section 8 separating element 9 Top 10 Cantilevered glass 11 Carrying handle 12 First tab 13 Second tab QUOTES INCLUDED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents cited by the applicant was automatically generated and is included solely for the reader's convenience. The list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA accepts no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] EP 3 260 387 [0002, 0003, 0004]

Claims

[1] Container (1) of grouped individual goods (2), comprising an outer packaging (3), the outer packaging (3) - a packaging strip (4) encircling the individual goods (2) in the manner of a banderole, wherein the packaging strip (4) is free of adhesive on its side facing the container (1) and has two end sections (6, 7) forming an overlap area (5) which are connected to each other, - and a separating element (8) which is designed to be arranged between at least two of the individual goods (2) in such a way that the at least two individual goods (2) do not touch each other, wherein the separating element (8) is arranged between at least two individual goods (2) and is held in the container (1) by a force-fit, in particular friction-fit, connection with the at least two individual goods (2). [2] Container (1) according to claim 1, characterized bythat the individual items (2) are arranged next to each other in the container (1) without adhesive. [3] Container (1) according to one of claims 1 or 2, characterized by , that the individual goods (2) are held together by a force-fit, in particular friction-fit, connection to each other, to the packaging strip (4) or to the separating element (8). [4] Container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the separating element (8) is essentially flat. [5] Container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the separating element (8) is made of paper or cardboard. [6] Container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the individual goods (2) are arranged in at least two rows, wherein the separating element (8) is arranged between the two rows. [7] Container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by, that the separating element (8) divides the quantity of individual goods (2) into two parts, each of the two parts having an identical number of individual goods (2). [8] Container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the package (1) is held together exclusively by tensile stress in the packaging strip (4) and / or the forces induced between the individual goods (2) by the tensile stress in the packaging strip (4). [9] Container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized by , that the individual items (2) of the container (1) form a top (9), wherein the separating element (8) has a projection tab (10) which protrudes at least partially over the top (9). [10] Container (1) according to claim 9, characterized by , that the separating element (8), in particular at the overhang (10), has a carrying handle (11). [11] Container (1) according to one of claims 9 or 10, characterized by, that the separating element (8) is arranged between the individual goods (2) in such a way that the static friction force between the separating element (8) and the individual goods (2) is greater, in particular at least 1.5 times greater than the weight force of the container (1). [12] Container (1) according to any one of claims 9 to 11, characterized by , that the overhang tab (10) has two tabs (12, 13) which are designed to at least partially cover a part, preferably one of the two halves, of the upper surface (9). [13] Outer packaging (3) according to any one of claims 1 to 12. [14] Packaging system for the production of a container (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12.

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