TREE COVERING SYSTEM

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a wrapping system for a tree, comprising two detachably connected, flexible surface elements. A first surface element is designed as a base surface, and a second surface element is designed as a lateral surface. This allows for the creation of a closed wrapping that can accommodate a portion of a tree within its interior. Furthermore, the base surface has an opening.

[0002] Furthermore, the invention relates to the use of the wrapping system as a transport aid for a tree and / or as protection against frost for a tree. Background and state of the art

[0003] Christmas trees are usually decorated conifers that are set up indoors or outdoors during the Christmas season. Disposing of Christmas trees without needles is a common problem at the end of each Christmas season. Due to the sometimes extended period of time spent standing in closed and heated rooms, trees lose water, causing their needles to loosen and fall to the ground. Needle loss is particularly significant when the tree is being taken down or when being transported from an indoor to an outdoor area. As a result, the needles can spread throughout an entire house and / or apartment—for example, in the hallway, living room, etc. Collecting and disposing of these scattered needles is very difficult. Especially on carpeted floors, the needles become entangled in the carpet fibers, so that even a vacuum cleaner cannot make cleanup easier.

[0004] Disposal packaging for Christmas trees is known in the art. These disposal packaging solutions are predominantly one-piece, tubular wrapping systems that are designed to be applied either from the bottom or the top and then pulled around the tree.

[0005] Such a disposal package is known, for example, from GB 2 282 587 A, where the tube ends of the disposal package disclosed therein each have a rubber band. The ends can thus be pulled together at the treetop and trunk, preventing the tree needles from protruding from the cover.

[0006] A disadvantage of these structures is that they cannot be installed on a standing tree by a single person. Firstly, conifers used as Christmas trees are often too wide in their overall diameter, and secondly, they are too tall, meaning the tubular covering system at the top of the tree cannot be closed and / or pulled over without additional aids (ladder, step, second person, etc.).

[0007] Furthermore, the tree is subject to physical contact, particularly when applying the conventional disposal packaging, which causes the tree to lose particularly large quantities of needles through shaking, bending, and / or simply being stripped off. These needles are not collected in any way when applying the conventional disposal packaging, but rather fall to the ground. To counteract this, GB 2 282 587 A describes a method for applying the disposal wrap, starting from the underside of a tree and extending to the treetop. After being secured to the trunk, the disposal wrap is first spread out beneath the tree to collect the needles (cf. Fig.3 GB 2 282 587 A). However, in this case, the entire tree (including the support) must be lifted so that the disposal packaging can be secured to the trunk in the lower part of the tree.

[0008] US 4,054,166 A discloses a Christmas tree cover. The Christmas tree cover is designed as a flexible film-like material that is wrapped around a tree, with overlapping edges that can be closed with snap fasteners. Furthermore, the Christmas tree cover comprises a bottom part provided with a zipper, which is designed to close the Christmas tree cover on an underside. Furthermore, the disclosed Christmas tree cover has ribbons or straps that are guided through loops and, in particular, enable the upper and lower edges of the Christmas tree cover to be lashed down. The Christmas tree cover also has carrying handles.

[0009] US 2 911 025 A relates to a two-part cover for a Christmas tree. A first part of the cover is designed as a shell surface, while a second part of the cover is designed as a base surface. Both parts are made of a flexible material, for example: cotton, nylon, plastic, or paper. The base surface is preferably circular and has a decorative function on the one hand and a technical function, namely catching falling needles on the other. The shell surface, on the other hand, is preferably conical. The base surface can be connected to the shell surface by button fasteners. In addition, the shell surface has an opening and closing notch along its center line.

[0010] DE 297 17 614 U1 discloses a transport cover for Christmas trees. The transport cover consists of a cylindrical cone as the upper part of the cover and a circular lower part. A grip tube is formed on the upper part of the cover at approximately half the height of the cone. The lower part of the cover has a circular cutout in the center, which is provided with a gathering tape. Both the upper and lower parts of the cover are composed of a common film-like structure and are firmly (indetachably) bonded to each other in certain areas.

[0011] A simple needle-free disposal of Christmas trees for one person is not possible with the systems known from the state of the art. Object of the invention

[0012] The object of the present invention was to eliminate the disadvantages of the prior art and to provide an improved wrapping system which can be applied around a tree by one person and which enables needle-free disposal of the tree or at least minimizes the amount of needles that land on the ground. Summary of the invention

[0013] The object of the invention is achieved by the features of the independent claims. Advantageous embodiments of the invention are described in the dependent claims.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment, the invention relates to a wrapping system for a tree, characterized in that the wrapping system has two detachably connected, flexible surface elements, wherein a first surface element is designed as a base surface and a second surface element as a shell surface, so that both surface elements, through their connection, bring about a closed wrapping which can accommodate a partial area of ​​a tree in its interior, wherein the base surface has an opening.

[0015] The wrapping system according to the invention is preferably designed to wrap a tree or a portion of a tree and, on the one hand, to protect the surrounding area from loose needles, branches, and / or leaves, and, on the other hand, to facilitate transport of the tree. Due to its design, the preferred wrapping system is advantageously very easy to handle and is extremely well suited for being placed around a tree. In particular, the design of the wrapping system as two separate surface elements that are detachably connected to one another is to be regarded as a significant departure from the prior art, since known wrapping systems typically comprise only one surface element and a tubular structure, as explained above.

[0016] It is a particular advantage that both surface elements can be reversibly detached and connected to one another. This means that the surface elements can be separated from one another and each used for a different purpose and can be easily stored and stowed away. The two-part shape enables a wider range of applications, especially compared to prior art wrapping systems. The base surface can remain attached to the trunk of a Christmas tree for the entire lifespan of the tree and can serve, for example, as a decorative element or a collecting area for falling needles, leaves and / or branches, while the outer surface can be stored and stowed away separately. The base surface preferably has an opening that can accommodate the tree trunk and also preferably has a repellent surface that allows needles, leaves and / or branches to be easily removed, for example using a hand brush.

[0017] When the tree is to be moved or transported, the covering surface is preferably folded or placed over the treetop. Alternatively, the covering surface can be thrown over, after which the covering surface is correctly aligned and / or positioned. While aligning the covering surface around the tree, it is unavoidable that needles, leaves, and / or branches will become detached. Therefore, the base surface is preferably placed on the underside of the tree in a first step – before the covering surface is placed over the tree (or the base surface is already present beneath the tree due to decoration). This allows any loose needles to advantageously fall onto the base surface.Needles located on the base surface can either be easily removed from the base surface or left there, while the base surface can be guided along the tree trunk from a lower position (preferably on the ground) to a further position, where it is connected to the shell surface, so that the needles are enclosed in the sheathing system. In other words, the needles, leaves, and / or branches can remain on the base surface and, after the two elements are connected, can be inserted into the interior of a sheath. The tree can then be advantageously transported away without losing any more needles.

[0018] The combination of the present inventive features leads to a surprising synergistic effect, which results in the advantageous properties and the associated overall success of the invention, with the individual features interacting with one another. Another major advantage is that the preferred cover has a long service life. Because it consists of two parts, the material of the cover system, in particular the surface elements, is not subjected to the same stress during application as is the case with known covers that only have one surface element. Furthermore, having multiple surface elements is advantageous in that in the event of damage, not the entire system needs to be replaced, but only the damaged element.It is also advantageous in the production of the wrapping system according to the invention that smaller dimensioned machines with lower power consumption can be used, since the individual surface elements (base surface and lateral surface) do not assume the size of a single surface element of a tubular wrapping system known from the prior art.

[0019] For the purposes of the invention, a surface element is preferably a three-dimensional object which is much greater in its width and / or length than its thickness. In a preferred embodiment of the surface elements, these have a thickness of preferably from 1 µm to 10 mm, more preferably from 5 µm to 5 mm, particularly strongly preferably 10 µm to 2 mm and in particular 20 µm to 1 mm. The described thicknesses of the surface elements make it possible to use small amounts of material while providing sufficient strength to minimize any damage that may occur. The preferred wrapping system particularly preferably comprises flexible surface elements. This has the advantage that the surface elements can nestle very well around a tree, thereby making them easier to transport. The flexibility of the surface elements also enables very good transportability through narrow spaces, such as doors.Furthermore, the flexible surface elements can be rolled up or packaged particularly advantageously when not in use, resulting in a minimal volume. Due to their low thickness and high flexibility, the flexible surface elements can also be considered a "skin."

[0020] In a further preferred embodiment, the outer surface and / or the base surface is configured from a plurality of individual elements, wherein the individual elements are to be understood as smaller surface elements (individual surface elements). The individual surface elements can be connected to one another via a seam (or multiple seams) to form an overall surface element, namely a outer surface and / or a base surface. Such a "modular" design of the outer surface and / or base surface advantageously results in the manufacturing machines being able to be dimensioned even more compactly – without requiring a large work area. Furthermore, this type of design allows for the use of recycled surface elements (such as clothing intended for disposal or other recycled materials, such as recycled plastic and / or tent tarpaulins and / or fishing nets intended for disposal). Recycling protects the environment in many ways. It helps to avoid mountains of waste.It helps reduce the emission of harmful greenhouse gases. And it helps save energy. The energy invested in recycling a valuable material is often only a fraction of the energy required to produce it from scratch.

[0021] It is also preferred that the outer and / or base surface comprise multiple layers of surface elements. It may also be particularly preferred that only partial areas of the surface elements (outer and / or base surface) are reinforced with multiple layers. For example, the inside of the cone or outer surface tip can be reinforced with a second layer of the outer surface material over a length of approximately 20 cm - 30 cm, in order to enable a more advantageous, more stable opening when pulling the upper part over the tree. Furthermore, having multiple layers in the cone tip increases the service life of the wrapping system and reduces signs of wear, as the multiple layers make it more difficult for the tree top to be pierced through the material. Christmas trees, in particular, often have a cut-off / shortened tree top, with the intention of creating a tree decoration (star, lace, etc.).), whereby this feature, the pointed tree tip, in particular, leads to easy penetration through a material that is too thin. In alternative embodiments, the respective layers can be made of different materials. For example, the outer layer of a surface element can be made of environmentally friendly natural fibers, while parts of the inner layer can be designed with a layer of high-strength synthetic fibers.

[0022] In a further preferred embodiment, the wrapping system is characterized in that the surface elements have a basis weight of preferably 20 g / m 2 - 400 g / m 2 , more preferably 40 g / m 2 - 300 g / m 2 , and in particular 60 g / m 2 - 200 g / m 2 . Due to these value ranges, the surface elements advantageously have a lightweight yet very durable design.

[0023] Basically, a lateral surface, or simply a lateral surface, is a portion of the surface of certain bodies. In this case, the enveloping system as a whole—that is, when the two surface elements are connected—assumes a solid shape when stretched out. The second surface element is preferably referred to as the lateral surface of this solid shape.

[0024] It is understood that the term "sealed cover" does not imply an airtight seal. A "sealed cover" is to be understood as a detachable connection between the two surface elements, whereby the cover prevents needles, branches, and / or leaves from penetrating the interior of the cover into an area outside the cover. It is therefore to be understood as a closed and needle-impermeable system. In particular, the sealed cover is partially open through the opening in the base, i.e., not completely closed. The opening is preferably designed to accommodate the tree trunk, so that the tree trunk serves, among other things, as a guide.

[0025] The wrapping system can include a part of a tree, whereby the part preferably describes the top and / or the tree crown and / or the branches and / or leaves and / or needles.

[0026] For the purposes of the invention, a tree is preferably selected from the group consisting of spruce, pine, common beech, oak, larch, fir, hornbeam, linden, birch, poplar, willow, Norway maple, sycamore, and field maple, ash, elm, and black alder. The tree is particularly preferably a conifer, specifically selected from the group consisting of spruce, fir, pine, larch, Swiss stone pine, yew, juniper, and cedar. In particular, the tree is designed as a so-called Christmas tree and selected from the group comprising Nordmann fir, spruce, Norway spruce, noble fir, pine, Douglas fir, and Colorado fir.

[0027] In a further preferred embodiment, the wrapping system is characterized in that the base surface and the outer surface are reversibly connectable to one another via a connecting means and form an abutting edge at the connection point, and the opening is positioned in the center of the base surface. Because the opening is positioned in the center of the base surface, the wrapping system can advantageously be attached evenly around the tree. This advantageously results in the base surface being equally accessible from all sides and being able to be guided from all sides along the tree trunk from a lower position - resting on a floor - to an upper position. In addition, an opening positioned in the center of the base surface offers aesthetic advantages, which enable a uniform and orderly appearance of the Christmas tree, provided the base surface is used as a decorative element.In addition, fasteners included in the sheathing system that reversibly connect the base surface and the shell surface are considered environmentally friendly, since these connections do not require a material bond and therefore do not use environmentally harmful chemicals.

[0028] The joint or butt joint is preferably designed to be particularly sturdy, as it can be subjected to high loads during transport. A reinforcing element such as a wire, a rod, or a similar device is suitable for additionally stabilizing and / or protecting the edges. The reinforcing element advantageously distributes the edge pressure evenly and protects the butt joint from damage.

[0029] In a further preferred embodiment, the sheathing system is characterized in that the closed sheath assumes the shape of a cone in a stretched state, wherein the base surface has a circular shape; wherein the lateral surface has an incision along a surface line with a connecting means which is designed to open the lateral surface so that it can assume a developed shape; wherein the developed shape of the lateral surface forms a circular sector.

[0030] Since the preferred sheathing system takes on the shape of a cone when unfolded, conifers, in particular, are advantageously suited for the sheathing system. Their natural shape allows them to be wider from the top toward the ground and they can conform very well to the inner surfaces of the sheathing. The conical shape also simplifies the installation of the sheathing surface and its subsequent alignment.

[0031] Furthermore, the notch in the casing surface offers a huge advantage over prior art designs, as it significantly simplifies the attachment and removal of the casing surface or the wrapping system on a propped (or standing) tree. Instead of - as was previously common in the prior art - pulling or pulling a hose over a tree, requiring considerable force and movement, the preferred notch allows the casing surface to be opened, folded over the tree, and closed once aligned, similar to a jacket (or coat). This can be accomplished by one person without any physical effort. Removing the wrapping system is also made much easier. Typically, the tree is not placed on a propped up stand for disposal outdoors, but rather placed on the ground.Contrary to the state of the art, the tree can be pulled out of the wrapping system after simply opening the incision.

[0032] The connection of the surface elements is preferably designed such that the outer surface and the base surface complement each other and can be combined to form a solid shape. It is preferred that the entire circumference of the base surface be connected to the outer surface. The conical shape of the clamped enveloping system is accompanied by the circular design of the base surface, which, in addition to its function as a needle catcher, can also be advantageously used for decorative purposes for aesthetic reasons.

[0033] For the purposes of the invention, a stretched state is preferably the state of the enveloping system at its greatest extent. Developable surfaces are known in particular from geometry and / or technical drawing. In geometry, the development of a surface is understood to mean the expansion of a surface into a plane such that lengths (measured on the original surface) are retained. The developed shape of the enveloping surface preferably takes on a circular sector, whereby the circular sector is a partial area of ​​a circular area bounded by a circular arc and two circular radii. Viewed from above, this partial area preferably looks abstractly like a sliced ​​piece of pie.

[0034] In a preferred embodiment, the incision is not designed continuously along a surface line from the abutting edge (base surface / surface surface) to the cone apex. The incision is preferably designed along a surface line starting from the abutting edge up to an upper region of the cone. The upper region can have a distance of preferably up to 0.5 m, more preferably up to 0.3 m and particularly strongly preferably up to 0.15 m from the cone apex. This leads to a tip forming at the cone apex when the surface surface is opened, which tip can advantageously be hooked into a tree crown (treetop), thus simplifying the alignment of the surface surface.

[0035] According to the invention, the wrapping system is characterized in that the outer surface has a rod device along a surface line, wherein the rod device is preferably made of wood, metal and / or plastic. The rod device results in the wrapping system being easier to place around a tree, since the rod device imparts sufficient rigidity to the outer surface, at least in a partial area, and assumes a supporting function, which makes it possible to lift the outer surface starting from an underside of the outer surface, to stretch it upwards and / or to guide it, and to place it around the top of the tree. This can advantageously be accomplished by one person, whereby no aids and / or assistance from other people are necessary.

[0036] The advantage of a wooden rod device, for example, is its high environmental compatibility. Firstly, it is a renewable raw material, and secondly, wood is biodegradable during disposal. Furthermore, wood offers advantageous high stability and high rigidity with a low weight.

[0037] The preferred design of the rod device made of plastic advantageously offers high cost-effectiveness in production. Furthermore, plastic allows for a very lightweight design of the rod device while still maintaining sufficient rigidity.

[0038] A metal pole system, on the other hand, has the advantage of a very long service life. Furthermore, it can withstand high loads and is very rigid. For this reason, metal pole systems are particularly suitable for tall and heavy trees that are enclosed by a large sheathing system, and the pole system must support a correspondingly large surface area.

[0039] In a further preferred embodiment, the aforementioned rod device comprises one of the aforementioned materials (wood / metal / plastic). Composite materials are also preferred, whereby the composite can be a combination of the aforementioned materials and / or also comprise fiber reinforcements. The fiber reinforcement is preferably made of glass fiber, aramid, and / or carbon. Fiber reinforcements are particularly suitable for a plastic rod device.

[0040] In a further preferred embodiment, the wrapping system is characterized in that both the base surface and the outer surface each have an inner side directed into the closed envelope and an outward-facing side, wherein the outward-facing and / or inward-facing side of the outer surface has at least one guide channel along a surface line, which is designed to receive a rod device. The guide channel is particularly advantageously used for fixing and guiding the rod device. The rod device is preferably mounted in the outer surface with one degree of freedom, such that the rod device can be pushed into and pulled out of the channel without deflecting sideways. Accordingly, it is ensured that the outer surface is fastened to the rod device and that the outer surface can be more easily pulled over the treetop.

[0041] Preferably, the channel can be configured from several smaller channels that are spaced apart from one another and arranged in a row. Together, they form an overall channel, which advantageously results in a saving in the material required for the design of a single channel.

[0042] In a further preferred embodiment, the base surface can also have a guide channel configured to accommodate a rod device. This provides support for the base surface, allowing the base surface to be moved more easily from a lower position on the floor to an upper position for connection to the shell surface. In particular, a person can grasp the base surface on one side and perform the movement with one hand.

[0043] In a further preferred embodiment, the sheathing system is characterized in that the rod device comprises at least two individual rod elements which can be reversibly connected to one another via an adapter and / or can be telescopically inserted into and / or separated from one another. The essential advantage of such a design of the rod device is that it can assume two shape states, one of the two states having a very small longitudinal expansion. Despite the change in shape state, no compromises in rigidity and / or stability are required. Furthermore, the rod device can be extended and adapted to any tree size. Another advantage is that the composition is environmentally friendly. Advantageously, no material-to-material connecting means are required and the device is therefore very environmentally friendly.

[0044] In a further preferred embodiment, the rod device is preferably configured from 2 to 8 individual rod elements, more preferably from 3 to 6 individual rod elements, and in particular from 3 individual rod elements. It has been shown that 3 individual rod elements offer excellent flexibility while still providing sufficient rigidity to wrap the lateral surface around a tree.

[0045] The adapters described above are preferably made of wood, metal, and / or plastic. Within the scope of the invention, it can be provided that the individual rod elements comprise a different material than the adapters. For example, the individual elements can be made of plastic, while the adapters comprise metal.

[0046] In a further preferred embodiment, the casing system is characterized in that the opening in the base area is circular and has a diameter which is large enough for the opening to accommodate a tree trunk.

[0047] It is in the nature of things that a tree trunk is round in cross-section. By designing the opening in the base in a circular shape, this opening can be advantageously adapted to the tree trunk, so that the collection of needles / leaves and / or branches by the base is maximized. This is because the space between the tree trunk and the base is as small as possible. Furthermore, the circular opening allows the base to be guided well along the tree trunk. This is particularly advantageous when the base is moved from a position on the ground to a position higher up in order to connect the outer surface to the base. A round opening is also advantageous for the production of a base, as it can be created using standardized machine tools. A suitable opening can be provided depending on the thickness of the tree trunk.

[0048] It is understood that the base area is preferably located exclusively in a lower area of ​​the tree, since the branches of a tree cannot be passed through.

[0049] In a further preferred embodiment, the wrapping system is characterized in that the opening of the base is provided with a closable, cuff-like border so that it can be wrapped around a tree trunk. The cuff-like border advantageously results in the base having a significantly longer service life because the material of the base does not come into direct contact with the tree trunk. The tree trunk, particularly that of a conifer, has projections, unevenness, edges, elevations, and / or small branches that place stress on the base during the process of being guided from a base to a higher position – for example, the base can become caught in them, which can lead to tears. Precisely because the material of the base is particularly thin, the cuff strengthens the edge surface.

[0050] Furthermore, the cuff preferably allows the opening to be individually adapted / adjusted to a tree trunk, for example by adjusting the cuff using a Velcro fastener.

[0051] In a further preferred embodiment, the sheathing system is characterized in that the base surface has an incision which, starting from the opening in the center of the base surface, is oriented, preferably radially, outwards to an outer edge or the abutting edge of the base surface, and the incision has connecting means.

[0052] The particular advantage of the incision is that the base area can also be subsequently used - when a tree is in an upright position - to form a wrapping system around a tree trunk and serve as a collecting area or catchment area for falling needles / leaves and / or branches.

[0053] For the purposes of the invention, an incision is a point cut into the material of the base surface. The incision is preferably made in the material using cutting methods known from the prior art. The incision is preferably designed such that it is formed in a straight line (in a direct path) from the opening in the center radially outwards to the outer edge or the abutting edge. The straight incision is particularly advantageous for quickly and easily positioning the base surface around a tree trunk. In a further preferred variant, the incision can also be made in a spiral shape, starting from the opening, for example, outwards to an edge or abutting edge.

[0054] Preferably, the incision is provided with a connecting means so that the incision can be preferably closed. Particularly preferably, the connecting means is designed so that the base surface can be reversibly closed and opened. Firstly, the closure prevents needles from protruding through the base surface, and secondly, the connecting means (e.g., a zipper) can impart a certain rigidity to the base surface, which makes it easier to move the base surface from a lower position on the floor to a higher position for connection to the outer surface.

[0055] In a further preferred embodiment, the wrapping system is characterized in that the base surface and the outer surface comprise a textile structure and / or a homogeneous film-like structure, wherein the textile structure preferably comprises natural fibers and / or synthetic fibers. The advantage of textile structures is their particularly high tensile strength. This means that even particularly large and heavy trees can be wrapped, and the wrapping system is suitable for transporting the tree without the surface element (base surface, outer surface) showing signs of wear or cracking. Textile structures can also have the particular advantage of being produced in a very environmentally friendly manner and can also be recycled. Film-like structures are advantageously characterized by their very thin design.Manufacturing is also very economical, as the industry has been producing such structures for a wide variety of purposes for a long time.

[0056] Both synthetic and natural fibers offer various advantages. Because synthetic fibers are artificially produced, required parameters can be individually adjusted during production. Furthermore, synesthetic fibers can be produced with particularly high uniformity, making them ideal for processing into a sheathing system. Complex post-processing to adjust properties is unnecessary. Natural fibers, on the other hand, have the enormous advantage of being renewable and biodegradable. Particularly with regard to the environment and climate change, resource- and waste-saving production of sheathing systems is highly relevant. Natural fibers can exhibit tensile strengths similar to those of synthetic fibers.

[0057] In a further preferred embodiment, the sheathing system is designed such that the outer surface is made of a material that is not identical to the material of the base surface. This means that the base surface can, for example, be made of a film-like structure, whereas the outer surface is made of a textile structure.

[0058] The outer surface experiences a higher load from the tree during transport, so it is preferably made of a material with high tensile strength, such as a textile fabric. The base surface, on the other hand, does not bear the weight of the tree. Therefore, an inexpensive material without high tensile strength, such as film-like structures, can be used for the base surface. It is understood that both the outer surface and the base surface can comprise a mix of film-like structures and textile structures. Of course, both the base surface and the outer surface can particularly preferably be made of a textile fabric.

[0059] In a further preferred embodiment, the covering system is characterized in that the connecting means is a button connection, a zipper, a Velcro fastener and / or a lace fastener.

[0060] These fasteners, in particular, exhibit advantageous properties with regard to the reversible detachment and fastening of the surface elements and / or their incisions. They can be easily attached without adhesives, but rather via seams, making them environmentally friendly. Furthermore, no significant force is required to close and / or open the surface elements and / or incisions using the fasteners.

[0061] Button fasteners also offer a long service life and durability. Zippers, on the other hand, have the advantage of completely closing a large area with a single movement of the hand. The closure is particularly tight, so that no needles, leaves, and / or branches can penetrate the fasteners. In addition to their fastening function, zippers also have the advantage of being particularly decorative. Hook and loop fasteners, on the other hand, are very easy to use and can be opened and closed quickly even by inexperienced people. Furthermore, thanks to their flexible design, hook and loop fasteners offer advantages when rolling up and packing the covering system. The tension of the panels can also be individually adjusted using the hook and loop fastener.

[0062] In a further preferred embodiment, the wrapping system is characterized in that the outward-facing side of the casing surface has carrying devices, wherein the carrying devices are preferably designed as guide tabs and / or channels which are adapted to receive carrying straps, wherein the guide tabs and / or channels are preferably aligned parallel to the incision in the casing surface. Such a configuration of the preferred wrapping system advantageously enables the relocation of a tree, for example, from one location to a disposal site. Contrary to prior art designs, the carrying devices eliminate the need for disadvantageous rope loops to be placed around the entire casing in order to be carried by one or more people. These rope loops can often slip, which is prevented by the carrying devices according to the invention.The carrying devices are so stable that they do not represent a weak point in the entire wrapping system and do not give way even under heavy loads. Preferably, a carrying device comprises a tab and / or a channel configured to accommodate a carrying strap, a carrying rope, a carrying strap, a carrying cord, a carrying strap, a carrying line, and / or a carrying rope. To transport a tree embedded in a preferred wrapping system, one or more people can each use a carrying strap to carry the tree. The guide tabs and / or channels are designed, in particular, parallel to the notch in the casing surface. This advantageously enables very good stability and comfort when carrying the tree.

[0063] Even if the design of the carrying devices does not necessarily require the carrying straps to form a loop around the wrapping system, this can nevertheless serve as an alternative within the meaning of the invention. Among other things, this results in the straps compressing the wrapping system and reducing the tree's volume. Reducing the volume significantly simplifies carrying a tree, allowing it to be carried easily through narrow spaces such as doorways.

[0064] In a further preferred embodiment, the wrapping system is characterized in that the outward-facing side of the outer surface has fastening tabs which are designed to secure a rolled-up outer surface. One of the particular advantages of the present invention is that both the outer surface and the base surface can be rolled up and packaged with a very small volume. For the construction of the preferred wrapping system, in particular for pulling the outer surface over the top of a tree or the tree crown, it is advantageous if the outer surface is not spread out in its entirety, but is partially or at least partially rolled up. So that a person does not have to continuously secure the rolled-up sections by hand during the construction of the wrapping system, the preferred variant has fastening tabs as fixing elements.The fastening tabs can have any possible connection options, for example a Velcro system or a hook / eye system.

[0065] In a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the sheathing system is characterized in that the outward-facing side of the sheath surface has two guide channels, each of which is positioned near a distal side of the sheath surface. This advantageously results in the rod devices also being positioned along (near) the incision in the sheath surface when they are inserted into the guide channels. Due to the immediate proximity of the rod devices next to the closing mechanism (incision), rolling up the distal sides of the sheath surface or closing them is no longer necessary. In this preferred embodiment, a person can directly grasp the two rod devices and slightly gather the sheath material between them with their hands. In this way, a person can advantageously pick up the sheath sleeve immediately after inserting the rod devices into the channels and use it accordingly.

[0066] The "proximity of the guide channels to a distal side" is to be understood in the context of the invention as meaning that the guide channels are preferably aligned substantially parallel to the incision or a distal side (along a surface line) and have a preferred distance of preferably up to 10 cm, more preferably up to 5 cm, and in particular up to 3 cm from the incision or the distal side. In a further preferred embodiment, the guide channels are not aligned exactly parallel to the incision or a distal side (along a surface line), but rather such that they enclose a small angle—preferably up to 5°—with an imaginary line aligned exactly parallel to the incision. This advantageously simplifies the opening and closing of the incision via connecting means.

[0067] In a further preferred embodiment, the invention relates to a method for constructing a wrapping system around a tree, wherein the wrapping system comprises rod devices, a flexible circular base surface with a notch and a flexible outer surface with incorporated guide channels and a notch, comprising the following steps: a) Providing a tree, comprising a tree trunk and a tree top; b) Wrapping the base surface around the tree trunk by opening the notch and guiding the tree trunk through it until the tree trunk is received by the opening formed in the center of the base surface; c) Laying out the lateral surface on a floor, wherein the lateral surface, in an unfolded form, forms a circular sector and has two distal sides; d) Inserting the rod devices into the guide channels contained in the lateral surface; e) Rolling up the distal sides of the lateral surface in the direction of the guide channels and fixing the rolled-up distal sides with a connecting means; f) Holding the rod devices with the rolled-up distal sides at the lower third of the rod devices by a person and placing the lateral surface over the tree top;g) Detaching the fasteners and folding the distal sides of the lateral surface around the tree and then closing the notch formed by the distal sides; h) Connecting the base surface to the lateral surface using fasteners to form a butt joint.

[0068] The above-mentioned steps enable a preferred sheathing system to be assembled by a single person. It is understood that the method is not limited to this sequence of steps. Furthermore, additional, replacing, and / or supplementing steps for the assembly of the preferred sheathing system are also possible. The aforementioned preferred method can advantageously be carried out very quickly and in a very simple manner. Furthermore, the assembly and the above-mentioned method can be carried out without tools and without additional equipment.

[0069] In an alternative preferred embodiment, the above-mentioned steps e) and g) can be omitted. This alternative embodiment is characterized in that the guide channels are positioned directly near the distal sides. This means that the rod devices are also present there after insertion into the guide channels. By holding the rod devices, a person can thus grasp the entire lateral surface from both distal sides and place it over a tree, whereby the lateral surface can be gathered together from both sides by the rod devices.

[0070] In this document, the term "treetop" is used synonymously with the terms "treetop" and "tree crown".

[0071] In a further preferred embodiment, the method is characterized in that the tree has a height of 1.2 m - 3.0 m, preferably 1.5 m - 2 m, and the base area has a diameter of 1 m - 1.7 m, preferably 1.3 - 1.5 m. The invention is not limited to these values. Those skilled in the art can, of course, adapt the size of the diameter of the base area to the height of a tree. It is understood that the stated value ranges include all rational values ​​within the ranges. For example, the tree can also have a height of 1.25 m or 1.789 m, and the base area can also have a value of 1.42389 m, for example.

[0072] In a further preferred embodiment, the invention relates to the use of the wrapping system of the type mentioned above as a transport aid for a tree. The wrapping system is particularly well suited for transport because the advantages described above are fully effective. Firstly, the material and the structural design of the wrapping system are very stable and tensile, so that a high tree weight can be supported. Furthermore, with the help of carrying devices, one or at least very few people can transport / move the tree from a location to a disposal position, whereby the wrapping system can be applied quickly by a single person. Furthermore, the wrapping system enables a reduction in the volume of the tree and enables the tree to be transported without needles / leaves and / or branches falling onto the ground.

[0073] In a further preferred embodiment, the invention relates to the use of the wrapping system of the type mentioned above as frost protection for a tree. The inventors were surprised that the wrapping system according to the invention can also wrap a tree outdoors (outside a house and / or apartment), thereby providing additional advantages. In this application, the trees in question are not suitable for transport because they have roots and are therefore still alive. A wrapping system can protect plants and trees that are typically found in warmer climates and cannot survive a cold winter from damage caused by frost and cold temperatures.

[0074] Use of the wrapping system of the type mentioned above for decorative purposes for a tree, wherein the base serves as a support and / or is placed over a tree stand that holds the tree, and / or the outer surface is stored in a location separate from the tree. Contrary to prior art designs, the present wrapping system is particularly designed to serve a decorative purpose. In particular, the base is given a design that serves a decorative purpose. Christmas trees are often decorated with a blanket as a base. For the purposes of the invention, this "decorative blanket" can be dispensed with, since the base preferably consists of a material and texture that corresponds to the purpose of a "decorative blanket."Preferably, the base surface may therefore have a different color from the outer surface and preferably comprise different printed and / or embroidered textures.

[0075] The wrapping system according to the invention will be explained in more detail below using examples, without being limited to these examples. FIGURES Brief description of the figures

[0076] Fig. 1 Representation of a preferred envelope system from a side view Fig. 2 Representation of a preferred envelope system from a bottom side Fig. 3 Representation of a preferred lateral surface in a developed form Fig. 4 Representation of another preferred lateral surface in a developed form Detailed description of the illustrations

[0077] Fig. 1is a side view of a preferred sheathing system 1. As already stated above, this is, in contrast to all previously known systems, a system consisting of two surface elements. The surface elements are designed as a base surface 3 and a shell surface 5. These can be connected to each other via an abutting edge 11 to form a closed, needle-impermeable system. In the present illustration of the Fig. 1 is the base area 3 divided by the lateral area 5 hidden.

[0078] The lateral surface 5 In a clamped state, it has a conical shape and is preferably connected to the base area 3 reversibly closable. The wrapping of a (partial area of) a tree is preferably carried out as follows: First, the base area 3 is arranged below the tree and then the outer surface 5around the tree. This order is preferred so that as many falling needles / leaves and / or branches as possible are removed when the wrapping system is installed. 1 around a tree on the base area 3 (and not on a floor). Thus, due to the smooth surface of the base 3- a simple removal of needles, leaves and / or branches, for example, using a hand brush, or the needles, leaves and / or branches lying on the base area 3 are included in the wrapping system 1 and transported with the tree to an outdoor area (outside a house or apartment).

[0079] The lateral surface 5 has a closable opening - an incision 9 -on the long side of the cone shell (mantle line) from the cone base to just before the cone tip. The notch 9 is preferably opened and closed using a connecting means, such as a zipper. In this case, Fig. 1 The zipper should preferably be closed from top to bottom.

[0080] Furthermore, the lateral surface 5 on one outward-facing side tabs and / or channels 17 parallel to the incision 9 are aligned. The tabs or channels 17 are specifically designed to accommodate carrying straps. The carrying straps can be placed around a person's shoulder when transporting a tree. However, they can also be used to secure the preferred wrapping system. 1 It is recommended to wrap the tree, including the tree itself, to reduce its volume. This is particularly advantageous when transporting it through narrow spaces such as doorways.

[0081] Also the butt edge 11 designed connection between the shell surface 5 and floor space 3 can be reversibly connected and disconnected using a connecting device.

[0082] Preferably, a zipper can be pulled counterclockwise to release both surface elements.

[0083] Fig. 2 shows a preferred envelope system 1 from a bottom side, whereby in particular the base area 3 can be seen.

[0084] The base area 3 is designed in a circular shape. In the center of the base 3 there is a recess or an opening 7. The opening 7 is large enough to hold a tree trunk. Starting from the opening 7 has the base area 3 a radially outward-facing incision 10The edge of the recess or opening 7 preferably with a closable cuff-like border 15 so that it can wrap itself around the tree trunk to prevent needles from falling through the opening 7 to prevent and also to reduce wear on base area 3 (e.g. cracks).

[0085] The base area 3 can be positioned under the tree as a decorative element after it has been set up and can also serve as a needle catcher. The base area 3 preferably through the radial incision 10 around the tree trunk and preferably placed above a tree stand. This also covers the tree stand in use. The radial cut 10 can then preferably be closed using a zipper and / or Velcro, etc.

[0086] When using the floor space 3 as a decorative element, the base area 3 preferably in red and / or another color. It may also be preferred that on the base area 3 Christmas motifs are printed on it. Furthermore, there is the possibility that the outer edge of the base 3 A colored garland-like border and / or LED elements can be attached. This allows the base area 3 It can be used as a permanent base and decorative element during the Christmas season. In addition to its decorative function, it also protects the floor below and simultaneously catches falling needles.

[0087] In a further preferred alternative, the floor area 3 also only be created when the tree is to be disposed of, whereby the base area 3 preferably (in time) before the lateral surface5 is created.

[0088] The base area 3 preferably has the same circumference as the lower edge of the conical surface 5. The diameter of base area 3 is preferably approximately 1.30-1.70m for tree sizes of 1.50-2.20m.

[0089] Fig.3 illustrates the preferred surface area 5 in a developed form. The developed form of the lateral surface 5 represents a circular sector. The illustration shows an outward-facing surface of the lateral surface 5. The lateral surface 5 has guide channels 13 which are designed to form a rod device 14 to absorb. The rod device 14 supports the lateral surface 5 and gives this or the entire casing system 1 the required rigidity.

[0090] The lateral surface 5preferably includes two integrated rod devices 14. The rod devices 14 before applying the shell surface 5 inserted into existing channels from the underside of the tree. The channels 13 run vertically along a surface line towards a cone tip. After the rod devices 14 into the canals 13 have been introduced, these can be closed, for example, by a tab that prevents the rod devices from slipping out 14 prevented. The insertion of the rod devices 14 is preferably carried out by laying out the shell surface 5 on the ground in the developed form, whereby the channels 13 on the surface that is away from the ground.

[0091] After the rod devices 14 into the canals 13 have been introduced and closed, the respective distal cone longitudinal sides 19to the rod channel 13 rolled up and secured with a fixing element 18, such as a Velcro fastener.

[0092] The creation of the shell surface 5 around a tree by using both rod devices 14 at the lower third together with the rolled up distal cone longitudinal sides 19 held by a person. Then the surface of the shell 5 with the cone pointing upwards. The closed cone point is then placed over the top of the tree. In the next step, one of the two Velcro fasteners is 18 opened, which the rolled-up distal cone longitudinal sides 19 hold together. A first distal cone longitudinal side 19 is placed around the tree, analogously the second long side of the cone 19.

[0093] The base area is then 3with the lateral surface 5 at the butt edge 11 connected to each other. Subsequently, the surface area is preferred 5 about the incision 9 Sealed lengthwise along a mantle line. This advantageously creates a closed, needle-impermeable transport / disposal sleeve.

[0094] For better transport of the wrapping system 1 Including the tree, it is possible to use preferred vertically arranged flat belts to secure the tree or the cover 1 to contract or compress in order to reduce the volume and at the same time carry the tree out on the straps without needles falling to the ground.

[0095] After the tree has been removed, the wrapping system can 1 preferably be solved again by first removing the base area 3 from the lateral surface 5 The outer surface is then 5preferably along the surface line in cut 9 and both base area 3 as well as lateral surface 5 can be packaged and reused at a later date (e.g. Christmas the following year). Before packaging, the respective rod devices are preferably 14 from the canals 13 taken out.

[0096] The calculation of the long side s of the lateral surface is given by s = r 2 + h 2 , where h represents the corresponding tree height. The (unfolded) developed conical surface results from the side edge length and the angle of the two outgoing side edges. The angle is given by α = 360 ° × r s .

[0097] Fig. 4 shows the preferred surface area 5 in a developed form, in particular an outward-facing side of the lateral surface 5(with respect to the spanned cone shape). The developed shape represents a circular sector, where circular arcs of the lateral surface 5 prefers the connection point to the base area 3 and therefore as a butt edge 11 The lateral surface 5 preferably has a plurality of guide tabs / channels 17 for preferably a variety of carrying straps. Furthermore, the design of the shell surface 5 as a circular sector having two distal sides 19 along with.

[0098] The Fig. 4 The embodiment shown comprises in particular two guide channels 13 for rod devices 14. These are preferably placed so that they are immediately near the distal sides 19 For this reason, the rod devices 14 also after insertion into the channels 13there and thus allow a person to see the entire surface 5 starting from both sides 19 This simplifies the process of putting on the cover system 1 over a tree. LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS

[0099] 1 Envelope system 3 Base area 5 Shell area 7 Opening in the base area 9 Cut in the shell area 10 Cut in the base area 11 Butt edge 13 Guide channel 14 Rod device 15 Cuff-like border 17 Guide straps / channel for carrying straps 18 Fixing elements 19 Distal sides

Claims

1. Enclosure system (1) for a tree, wherein the enclosure system (1) comprises two flexibly bendable surface elements that are detachably connected to each other, wherein a first surface element is designed as a base surface (3) and a second surface element is designed as a lateral surface (5), so that both surface elements together form a closed enclosure that can accommodate a section of a tree in its interior, wherein the base surface (3) has an opening (7), characterized in that the lateral surface (5) includes a supporting rod (14) along a mantle line.

2. Enclosure system (1) according to Claim 1, characterized in that the base surface (3) and the lateral surface (5) are reversibly connectable via a fastening element, forming a seam edge (11) at the connection point, and that the opening (7) is positioned at the center of the base surface (3).

3. Enclosure system (1) according to one or both of the preceding claims, characterized in that the closed enclosure assumes a conical shape when expanded, • wherein the base surface (3) has a circular shape; • wherein the lateral surface (5) has a cut (9) along a mantle line with a fastening element, which is configured to open the lateral surface (5) so that it can assume an unrolled form; • wherein the unrolled form of the lateral surface (5) forms a circular sector.

4. Enclosure system (1) according to one or both of the preceding claims, characterized in that the supporting rod (14) is made of wood, metal, and / or plastic.

5. Enclosure system (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that both the base surface (3) and the lateral surface (5) each have an inward-facing side directed toward the closed enclosure and an outward-facing side, wherein the outward-facing and / or inward-facing side of the lateral surface (5) has at least one guiding channel (13) along a mantle line, which is configured to accommodate a supporting rod (14).

6. Enclosure system (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the supporting rod (14) comprises at least two rod segments that can be reversibly connected via an adapter and / or can be telescopically inserted into or extended from one another.

7. Enclosure system (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the opening (7) in the base surface (3) is circular in shape and has a diameter large enough to accommodate a tree trunk.

8. Enclosure system (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the opening (7) of the base surface (3) is fitted with a closable cuff-like edging (15), allowing it to wrap around a tree trunk.

9. Enclosure system (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base surface (3) has a cut (10) that extends from the opening (7) at the center of the base surface (3), preferably radially, outward to the outer edge or seam edge (11) of the base surface (3), and that the cut (10) is equipped with fastening elements.

10. Enclosure system (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the base surface (3) and the lateral surface (5) consist of a textile structure and / or a homogeneous film-like structure, wherein the textile structure preferably comprises natural fibers and / or synthetic fibers.

11. Enclosure system according to one or more of the preceding claims 2, 3, and / or 9, characterized in that the fastening element is a button connection, a zipper, a hook-and-loop fastener, and / or a lace fastener.

12. Enclosure system (1) according to one or more of the preceding claims, characterized in that the outward-facing side of the lateral surface (5) has carrying elements, wherein the carrying elements are preferably designed as guiding loops and / or channels (17) configured to accommodate carrying straps, with the guiding loops and / or channels (17) preferably aligned parallel to the cut (9) in the lateral surface (5).

13. Enclosure system (1) according to Claim 5, characterized in that the outward-facing side of the lateral surface (5) has two guiding channels (13), each positioned near a distal edge (19) of the lateral surface (5), and / or the outward-facing side of the lateral surface (5) has securing loops (18) designed to fix the rolled-up lateral surface (5).

14. Use of the enclosure system (1) according to one or more of the preceding Claims 1 - 13 as a transport aid for a tree.

15. Use of the enclosure system (1) according to one or more of the preceding Claims 1 - 13 as frost protection for a tree.