Foldable package with simplified shaping

Abstract

Disclosed is a package (1) comprising a box defining a storage volume, and a cover (3) for closing the storage volume of the box (2), the box (2) having a bottom and a peripheral rim (22) able to adopt a storage position in which it extends substantially parallel to the bottom and a position of use in which it extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom. The box (22) comprises a rigid element connected to the first panel (221) and to the third panel by a resilient connection, the rigid element being movable between a storage position, in which the rigid element is located close to the bottom, and a position of use in which the rigid element is away from the bottom, the resilient connection tending to move the rigid element from its storage position to its position of use.

Description

[0001] The field of the invention is logistics. More specifically, the invention relates to a package, also called a packaging means, i.e. a container, for transporting objects between two destinations.

[0002] To transport an object safely, packages such as plastic boxes and cardboard boxes are known. Generally speaking, packages include a box with a base and a peripheral edge which together define a storage volume in which at least one object to be transported is housed.

[0003] The packages also include a cover that is movable relative to the box, or attached to the box, this cover being able to adopt a closed position in which the cover closes the storage volume of the box.

[0004] More specifically, the peripheral rim includes: a first panel; a second panel; a third panel opposite the first panel; a fourth panel opposite the second panel.

[0005] Each panel can therefore adopt: a storage position in which it extends substantially parallel to the bottom; a use position in which it extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom.

[0006] When transporting an object, a user picks up a package in a stowed position. In fact, most often, the perimeter edge panels are in their stowed position, which means the package is in a flat configuration.

[0007] The user must then shape the box, that is to say define the storage volume by positioning each of the panels of the peripheral edge in its position of use.

[0008] To do this, the user does not need to use tools and uses his hands to position each of the panels in its position of use and, if necessary, secure the panels together in their position of use.

[0009] To facilitate the shaping of the box, drive elements were designed between the different panels.

[0010] Thus, by acting on several panels simultaneously, it is possible to position the panels on which the user is not acting in their position of use thanks to the drive elements.

[0011] However, such systems have some drawbacks.

[0012] First, to ensure proper shaping of the box, the user is forced to position his hands in a certain way.

[0013] More precisely, the user cannot choose which panel he wishes to position in his position of use but is forced, by the presence of the drive elements, to act on certain panels specifically.

[0014] This results in a precise formatting sequence from which the user cannot deviate.

[0015] If this shaping sequence is deviated from, the user may be forced to start shaping again, since one or more of the crate panels remain in their storage position or in an intermediate position between the storage position and the use position.

[0016] Moreover, such a system also requires the user to act with a predetermined force.

[0017] In fact, the drive elements are as small as possible and then require the user to force against them in order to transmit the movement of the panels on which he acts to the other non-actuated panels, so that the non-actuated panels adopt their position of use.

[0018] Thus, a user may have difficulty shaping a crate and not be able to shape it. In addition, the repeated movements and the force required for this repetition of movement can cause musculoskeletal disorders for users. In addition, the crate shaping step represents a significant loss of time, especially when there are a lot of crates to shape (which is the case in the logistics sector).

[0019] The invention aims in particular to overcome the drawbacks of the prior art.

[0020] WO9630267 is known which relates to self-folding boxes according to the preamble of claim 1, capable of folding into a substantially flat storage configuration.

[0021] More specifically, the invention aims to propose a package having a folding box, the shaping of which is made easier compared to the prior art.

[0022] The invention also aims to provide such a package, the box of which requires little effort from the user to shape.

[0023] The invention further aims to provide such a package whose box can be quickly formed for a user.

[0024] These objectives, as well as others which will appear subsequently, are achieved thanks to the invention which relates to a package comprising a box defining a storage volume, and a cover intended to close the storage volume of the box, the box having a base and a peripheral rim comprising: a first panel; a second panel; a third panel opposite the first panel; a fourth panel opposite the second panel,

[0025] each of the first panel, the second panel, the third panel and the fourth panel being able to adopt: a storage position in which it extends substantially parallel to the bottom; a use position in which it extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom; the box further comprising a rigid element connected to the first panel and to the third panel by an elastic connection, the rigid element being movable between: a storage position of the box corresponding to the storage position of the panels of the peripheral rim, in which the rigid element is located close to the bottom; a use position of the box corresponding to the use position of the panels of the peripheral rim, in which the rigid element is spaced from the bottom, the elastic connection tending to move the rigid element from its storage position to its use position. According to the invention, the rigid element is a tray of a length equal to the distance between the first panel and the third panel in their use position.

[0026] Thanks to the elastic connection, the rigid element slides against the first panel and the second panel, causing them to move apart from each other.

[0027] In other words, the rigid element causes the first panel and the second panel to gradually move into their position of use almost automatically thanks to the elastic connection.

[0028] For the user, the rigid element thus acts as an aid in shaping the body. In fact, the invention contributes to: reduce the time taken to shape the package; reduce the physical effort required to shape the package.

[0029] Advantageously, the fund also includes at least: a first drive element interposed between the first panel and the second or fourth panel of the peripheral edge; a second drive element interposed between the third panel and the second or fourth panel of the peripheral edge,

[0030] The drive elements allow the second panel and the fourth panel to be positioned in their position of use simultaneously with the first panel and the second panel.

[0031] Therefore, it is not necessary for the user to act directly on the second panel and the fourth panel.

[0032] As stated above, the rigid element is a tray of a length equal to the distance between the first panel and the third panel in their position of use.

[0033] Such a length makes it possible to ensure that the first panel and the second panel are in the position of use, or almost so. Indeed, when the rigid element is in its position of use, that is to say, away from the bottom of the box, it is located close to a free end of the first panel and the second panel. Thus, the length makes it possible to obtain perpendicularity between the first panel and the bottom of the box as well as between the third panel and the bottom of the box.

[0034] According to a preferred embodiment, the elastic connection comprises at least one elastically deformable band or cable.

[0035] This elastic band or cable allows the rigid element to be positioned in its position of use.

[0036] Preferably, the box also comprises means for retaining the first panel, the second panel, the third panel and the fourth panel in their position of use.

[0037] Thus, the panels, and therefore the peripheral rim, are held in their position of use, so as to facilitate the insertion of at least one object into the storage volume by the user. Indeed, the user does not have to worry about maintaining the box formed and can freely position the object or objects in the storage volume, and, more particularly, on the connecting rod.

[0038] In this case, the retaining means comprise two parts each permanently mounted on the peripheral edge of the body.

[0039] Such retaining means offer good reversibility. In fact, the retention of the panels in their position of use is not definitive, and the user can fold the box without effort.

[0040] Advantageously, the cover includes: a first flap pivotally mounted on the first panel of the peripheral rim; a second flap pivotally mounted on the third panel of the peripheral rim; a third flap pivotally mounted on the second panel of the peripheral rim; a fourth flap pivotally mounted on the fourth panel of the peripheral rim, each flap being movable between a closed position in which it prevents access to the storage volume of the box, and an open position in which it leaves free access to the storage volume of the box.

[0041] A multi-part lid makes it easier for the user to close the package with small successive movements, unlike large movements in the case of a single-piece lid.

[0042] Moreover, such a lid is less bulky than those with one or two flaps, so it allows the package to be shaped even in a confined space.

[0043] According to a first embodiment, in their closed position, the first flap and the second flap extend in line with each other, and the third flap and the fourth flap extend in overlapping each other and in overlapping the first flap and the second flap.

[0044] This arrangement of the flaps ensures that the objects transported in the package are contained. Indeed, even if the third or fourth flap is lifted, the objects are confined within the storage volume thanks to the first and second flaps.

[0045] According to a second embodiment, in their closed position, the third flap and the fourth flap extend in line with each other, and the first flap and the second flap extend in overlapping each other and in overlapping the third flap and the fourth flap.

[0046] Likewise, such an arrangement of the flaps ensures the containment of the objects transported in the package since, even when lifting the third or fourth flap, the objects are confined in the storage volume thanks to the first flap and the second flap.

[0047] According to another advantageous embodiment, the first flap and the second flap, or the third flap and the fourth flap, which extend in the extension of one another, each have an internal surface facing the storage volume in their closed position, the internal surface being covered with a non-slip coating and / or a flexible material capable of being deformed by an object contained in the storage volume.

[0048] The adhesive coating also helps limit, or even eliminate, the movement of an object relative to the lid, particularly when handling the closed package, for example during transport. This then promotes the integrity of the object transported in the package. The flexible material, i.e. elastically deformable, ensures the retention of the object or objects in the storage volume so as to prevent their damage during transport.

[0049] Advantageously, the tray has a non-slip coating and / or a flexible material allowing an object to be retained in the storage volume of the box.

[0050] The adhesive coating also helps limit, or even eliminate, the sliding of an object on the tray, particularly when handling the closed package, for example during transport. This then promotes the integrity of the object transported in the package.

[0051] The flexible material, i.e. elastically deformable, also ensures that the object or objects are retained in the storage volume, and more precisely on the tray, so as to prevent them from being damaged during transport.

[0052] Preferably, the package includes a digital communication panel attached to one of the panels of the box or to the lid.

[0053] This digital communication panel allows the user to know the delivery information, for example displayed on a screen or a dynamic label, and to display in real time a modification of the delivery information.

[0054] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will appear more clearly on reading the following description of different preferred embodiments of the invention, given as illustrative and non-limiting examples, and the appended drawings among which: Fig. 1 is a perspective view from above of a package according to the invention; Fig. 2 is an exploded top view of a package according to the invention, in a flat configuration, that is to say that all the elements making up the package are located in the same plane; Fig. 3 is a top view of a package according to the invention, in a storage configuration; Fig. 4 is a perspective view from above of the package according to the invention according to a step of shaping the package; Fig. 5 is a longitudinal sectional view of the package according to the invention as illustrated in the figure 4 ; Fig. 6 is a perspective view from above of the package according to the invention, prior to the insertion of an object into the package; Fig. 7 is a longitudinal sectional view of the package according to the invention as illustrated in the figure 6 ; Fig. 8 is a schematic representation of means for retaining panels of the package according to the invention, according to a first embodiment; Fig. 9 is a schematic representation of means for retaining panels of the package according to the invention, according to a second embodiment; Fig. 10 is a schematic representation of means for retaining panels of the package according to the invention, according to a third embodiment; Fig. 11 is a schematic representation of means for retaining panels of the package according to the invention, according to a fourth embodiment; Fig. 12 is a longitudinal sectional view of a package according to the invention in a configuration of use.

[0055] In reference to the figure 1 , a package 1 according to the invention is illustrated.

[0056] This package 1 comprises a box 2 defining a storage volume and a cover 3 intended to close the storage volume of the box 2.

[0057] The box 2 has in particular a base 21 and a peripheral rim 22 comprising: a first panel 221; a second panel 222; a third panel 223 opposite the first panel 221; a fourth panel 224 opposite the second panel 222.

[0058] Each of the first panel 221, the second panel 222, the third panel 223 and the fourth panel 224 is mounted to move relative to the bottom 21, that is to say it can adopt: a storage position in which it extends substantially parallel to the bottom 21; and a use position in which it extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom 21.

[0059] The box 2 also comprises at least one drive element 23 interposed between two panels 221, 222, 223, 224 to facilitate their simultaneous passage from their storage position to their use position, and vice versa, as explained below.

[0060] More specifically, as illustrated in the figure 2 , box 2 includes: a first drive element 231; a second drive element 232; a third drive element 233; a fourth drive element 234.

[0061] More particularly, the first drive element 231 comprises a first portion 231a extending from the first panel 221 of the peripheral rim 22 and a second portion 231b pivoting relative to the first portion 231a by means of a hinge 231c. The second portion 231b of the first drive element is intended to be secured to the second panel 222 of the peripheral rim 22, for example by means of ultrasonic welding.

[0062] The second drive element 232 comprises a first portion 232a extending from the third panel 223 of the peripheral rim 22 and a second portion 232b pivoting relative to the first portion 232a by means of a hinge 232c. The second portion 232b of the second drive element is intended to be secured to the second panel 222 of the peripheral rim 22, for example by means of ultrasonic welding.

[0063] The third drive element 233 comprises a first portion 233a extending from the third panel 223 of the peripheral rim 22 and a second portion 233b pivoting relative to the first portion 233a by means of a hinge 233c. The second portion 233b of the third drive element 233 is intended to be secured to the fourth panel 224 of the peripheral rim 22, for example by means of ultrasonic welding.

[0064] Finally, the fourth drive element 234 comprises a first portion 234a extending from the first panel 221 of the peripheral rim 22 and a second portion 234b pivoting relative to the first portion 234a by means of a hinge 234c. The second portion 234b of the fourth drive element 234 is intended to be secured to the fourth panel 224 of the peripheral rim 22, for example by means of ultrasonic welding.

[0065] In order to maintain the panels 221, 222, 223, 224 of the peripheral rim in their position of use, the body 2 comprises means 25 for retaining the panels 221, 222, 223, 224 relative to each other.

[0066] More particularly, the retaining means 25 allow the following to be maintained in the position of use: of the first panel 221 relative to the second panel 222; of the second panel 222 relative to the third panel 223; of the third panel 223 relative to the fourth panel 224; of the fourth panel 224 relative to the first panel 221.

[0067] The retaining means 25 advantageously belong to the following groups: magnetic; attached organ; deformable; with bracing.

[0068] Preferably, the retaining means 25 comprise two parts each permanently mounted or each integral with the peripheral rim 22 of the body 2, as explained below.

[0069] THE figures 8 à 11 illustrate the different variants of restraint means.

[0070] There figure 8 illustrates means of retention 25 by bracing or also called by interference.

[0071] More specifically, each of the second panel 222 and the fourth panel 224 comprises at least one hook 251 projecting towards the first panel 221 or the third panel 223.

[0072] Preferably, the hook 251 of the second panel 222 is oriented towards the first panel 221 and the hook 251 of the fourth panel 224 is oriented towards the third panel 223, or vice versa.

[0073] In other words, at least one hook 251 is intended to cooperate with the first panel 221 and another hook 251 is intended to cooperate with the third panel 223.

[0074] The hook 251 then provides a space 252 with an edge of the second panel 222 or the fourth panel 224, this space 252 being intended to receive the first panel 221 or the third panel 223.

[0075] Each hook 251 is elastically deformable so that, when the first panel 221 and the third panel 223 are shaped, they elastically deform each hook 251 to come into contact with the edge of the second panel 222 or the fourth panel 224.

[0076] Each hook 251 then recovers its initial shape so as to hold the first panel 221 or the third panel 223 against the edge of the second panel 222 or the fourth panel 224.

[0077] In a variant not illustrated, the retaining means 25 may take the form of tabs secured to the first panel 221 and the third panel 223. These tabs are intended to be housed in slots made in the second panel 222 and the fourth panel 224. The cooperation between the tabs and the slots is advantageously tight so that, when the tabs are inserted into the slots, it is necessary to exert a significant tensile force on the first front panel 221 and on the third panel 223 to remove the tabs from the slots.

[0078] Fig. 9 illustrates retaining means 225 by added member 253, that is to say by assembling two panels of the peripheral rim 22 using an added member 253.

[0079] More specifically, an added member 253, such as a pin or a stud, is inserted into openings made on each of the first panel 221, the second panel 222, the third panel 223, the fourth panel 224, and on each of the drive elements 23, more particularly on their first portion.

[0080] Furthermore, the attached member 253 comprises a central portion intended to pass through the openings of the panels 221, 222, 223, 224, and of the drive elements, as well as two foldable stops, each located on either side of the central portion.

[0081] The peripheral rim 22 is then held in shape by inserting the central part of the added members 253 into the openings of the panels 221, 222, 223 and 224 and the drive elements 23, then folding the foldable stops so that the panels 221, 222, 223, 224 of the peripheral rim 22 and the drive elements 23 are sandwiched between the two foldable stops of the added member 253.

[0082] There figure 10 illustrates means of retention 25 by magnetism. For this, each panel 221, 222, 223, 224 of the peripheral rim 22 is provided with a magnet 254.

[0083] Likewise, each of the drive elements 23, and more particularly their first portion, carries a magnet 254.

[0084] To enable their cooperation, the 254 magnets are coupled in pairs with reversed polarity.

[0085] In other words, the magnets 254 of the panels 221, 222, 223, 224 have a negative polarity and the magnets 254 of the drive elements 23 have a positive polarity, or vice versa.

[0086] The magnets 254 which are located on the drive elements 23 are intended to cooperate with another magnet 254 opposite located on one of the panels 221, 222, 223, 224.

[0087] In the position of use of the panels 221, 222, 223, 224 of the peripheral rim 22, the first portions of the drive elements are pressed against the second panel 222 or the fourth panel so that their respective magnets 254 can cooperate.

[0088] There figure 11 illustrates means of retention 225 by deformation.

[0089] The second panel 222 and the fourth panel 224 then have a projection 255 oriented towards the first panel 221 and the third panel 223.

[0090] The first panel 221 and the third panel 223 then have recesses 256 each intended to cooperate with a projection 255. The insertion of a projection 255 into a corresponding recess 256 then causes the elastic deformation of the projection 255 which, in seeking to recover its undeformed state, exerts a force on the recess 256. This then causes the panels 221, 222, 223, 224 to be held in position relative to each other, and therefore the peripheral rim 22 to be held in shape, that is to say perpendicular to the bottom 21.

[0091] Furthermore, the box 2 also comprises a rigid element 26 interposed between the first panel 221 and the third panel 223 of the peripheral rim 22.

[0092] The rigid element 26 is in the form of a plate extending between the first panel 221 and the third panel 223 of the peripheral rim 22, and has a length equal to the distance between the first panel 221 and the third panel 223 in their position of use.

[0093] The rigid element 26, i.e. the tray, is in particular connected to the cover or to the first panel 221 and to the third panel 223 via an elastic connection 27.

[0094] In the figures, the elastic connection is fixed to the cover 3.

[0095] The rigid element 26, that is to say the plate, is then movable in translation relative to the bottom 21 between two positions, namely: a storage position of the box 21 corresponding to the storage position of the panels 221, 222, 223, 224 of the peripheral rim 22, in which the rigid element 26 is located close to the bottom 21; a use position of the box 2 corresponding to the use position of the panels 221, 222, 223, 224 of the peripheral rim 22, in which the rigid element 26 is spaced from the bottom 21.

[0096] The elastic connection 27 thus forms means for returning the rigid element 26, i.e. the plate, to the position of use.

[0097] The elastic connection 27 comprises at least one elastically deformable band or cable.

[0098] More specifically, as illustrated in the figures, the elastic connection is formed by an elastically deformable cable. The elastically deformable cable is fixed in a single part to both the first panel 221 of the peripheral rim 22 or first flap 31 of the cover 3, to the third panel 223 of the peripheral rim 22 or to the second flap 32 of the cover, and to the tray, i.e. to the rigid element 26.

[0099] The elastic cable then passes through the first panel 221 of the peripheral rim 22 or the first flap 31 of the cover 3, then through the tray, extends along the tray, then crosses the tray again to cross in two places the third panel 223 of the peripheral rim 22 or the second flap 32 of the cover 3, crosses the tray again and extends along the latter to the first panel 221 of the peripheral rim 22 or the first flap 31 of the cover 3 which it crosses again to be secured there or to join and be secured to a first end of the elastically deformable cable.

[0100] The elastically deformable cable thus forms a serpentine passing through both the box 2 or the cover, and the tray.

[0101] Thus, in the position of use of the panels 221, 222, 223, 224 of the peripheral rim 22, the elastic connection forms a member for returning the tray to its position of use.

[0102] Thus, a force applied to the plate in the direction of the bottom 21 of the box 2 elastically deforms the elastically deformable cable so as to exert a traction effect on the first panel 221 and the third panel 223 of the peripheral rim 22 towards the bottom 21 of the box 2.

[0103] The retaining means 25 in the use position of the panels 221, 222, 223, 224 make it possible to prevent the panels 221, 222, 223, 224 from covering their storage position.

[0104] The rigid element 26, that is to say the tray, has an upper surface intended to be opposite the cover 3 when the latter closes the storage volume, this upper surface has a non-slip coating and / or a flexible material allowing an object to be retained in the storage volume of the box 2.

[0105] The non-slip coating may be an additional layer of material applied to the rigid element 26, i.e. to the plate.

[0106] In this case, the additional material may include roughness and / or an adhesive coating such as glue.

[0107] Of course, in the case where an adhesive coating is used, the latter is selected so as to be compatible with the reusable nature of package 1.

[0108] In other words, the adhesive coating must be capable of improving the retention of an object O to be transported in the package 1, while having the capacity to separate from the object O to be transported when a user wishes to extract it from the package 1.

[0109] The additional material may in particular be leather or a synthetic material which has characteristics which enable it to adhere to the objects O to be transported contained in the box 2.

[0110] However, in order to maintain the reusable nature of the package 1, it is essential that the additional layer of material does not allow the retention of dirt such as dust, sand or other elements which would prevent the adhesion of the object O to be transported to the rigid element 26, i.e. the tray.

[0111] In the case of a flexible material, foam can be used. This foam must in particular be able to deform to best fit the contours of the object O to be transported, or objects O to be transported.

[0112] Furthermore, the package 1, and more particularly the box 2, comprises a digital communication panel 28 secured to one of the panels 221, 222, 223, 224 of the peripheral rim 22 of the box 2. If necessary, the digital panel 28 can be secured to the cover 3.

[0113] As illustrated on the figure 1 in particular, the digital communication panel 28 is secured to the first panel 221 of the peripheral edge 22.

[0114] This digital communication panel makes it possible in particular to display, via a screen 281, information linked to the transport of the package 1, for example the destination, or a signal, such as a bar code, intended to be read by actors in a delivery chain, generally a logistics chain.

[0115] As illustrated on the figures 2 And 6 in particular, the cover 3 includes: a first flap 31 rotatably mounted on the first panel 221 of the peripheral rim 22; a second flap 32 rotatably mounted on the third panel 223 of the peripheral rim 22; a third flap 33 rotatably mounted on the second panel 222 of the peripheral rim 22; a fourth flap 34 rotatably mounted on the fourth panel 224 of the peripheral rim 22.

[0116] In other words, each of the first panel 221, the second panel 222, the third panel 223 and the fourth panel 224 of the peripheral rim 22 is interposed between the bottom 21 and the cover 3.

[0117] Each flap 31, 32, 33, 34 is thus movable between a closed position in which it prevents access to the storage volume of the box 22, and an open position in which it leaves free access to the storage volume of the box 22.

[0118] The various flaps 31, 32, 33, 34 of the cover 3 are intended, when the box 2 is shaped as illustrated in the figure 1 , either to come opposite each other in pairs, or to overlap each other.

[0119] More precisely, when the box 2 is shaped, the first flap 31 and the second flap 32 of the cover 3 extend in line with each other, and the third flap 33 and the fourth flap 34 of the cover 3 extend in overlapping each other and in overlapping the first flap 31 and the second flap 32.

[0120] In other words, the first flap 31 and the second flap 32 face the storage volume, and more precisely the rigid element 26, that is to say the tray, and are interposed between the third flap 33 and the fourth flap 34 on the one hand, and the rigid element 26, that is to say the tray, on the other hand.

[0121] Advantageously, the first flap 31 and the second flap 32 each have an internal surface covered with a flexible material and / or a non-slip coating, for holding in position at least one object O to be transported in the package 1, as explained below.

[0122] The non-slip coating may be an additional layer of material applied to the rigid element 26, i.e. to the plate.

[0123] In this case, the additional material may include roughness and / or an adhesive coating such as glue.

[0124] Of course, in the case where an adhesive coating is used, the latter is selected so as to be compatible with the reusable nature of package 1.

[0125] In other words, the adhesive coating must be capable of improving the retention of an object O to be transported in the package 1, while having the capacity to separate from the object O to be transported when a user wishes to extract it from the package 1.

[0126] The additional material may in particular be leather or a synthetic material which has characteristics which enable it to adhere to the objects O to be transported contained in the box 2.

[0127] However, in order to maintain the reusable nature of the package, it is essential that the additional layer of material does not allow the retention of dirt such as dust, sand or other elements which would prevent the adhesion of the object O to be transported against the cover 3.

[0128] In the case of a flexible material, foam can be used. This foam must in particular be able to deform to best fit the contours of the object O to be transported, or objects O to be transported.

[0129] According to the embodiment illustrated on the figure 12 , the rigid element 26, that is to say the tray, carries a non-slip coating, and the cover 3 carries a flexible material, for example foam.

[0130] According to a variant embodiment not illustrated, it is the third flap 33 and the fourth flap 34 which extend in the extension of one another, and the first flap 31 and the second flap 32 of the cover 3 extending in overlapping of one another and in overlapping of the third flap 33 and the fourth flap 34 of the cover 3. In this variant embodiment, the flexible material and / or the non-slip coating is then carried by the third flap 33 and the fourth flap 34.

[0131] In reference to the figure 12 , which shows the package 1 in longitudinal section, only one of the third flap 33 and the fourth flap 34 carries a foam deformed in contact with the object O to be transported, the fourth flap 34 covering the first flap 31. In this configuration, the tray, that is to say the rigid element 26, is connected to the third flap 33 and to the fourth flap 34 of the cover 3 by the elastic connection 27.

[0132] To enable the safe transport of an object O, a package 1 according to the invention can be used.

[0133] To do this, package 1, initially in a folded configuration for storage, must be shaped to define the storage volume.

[0134] In its folded configuration, as illustrated in the figure 3 , the panels 221, 222, 223, 224 of the peripheral rim are in their storage position, and the two parts of the drive elements 23 are folded onto each other.

[0135] More precisely, the first panel 221 and the third panel 223 of the peripheral rim 22 extend in overlapping of the bottom 21 of the body 2, and the second panel 222 and the fourth panel 224 of the peripheral rim 22 extend in the extension of the bottom 21 of the body 2.

[0136] In this storage configuration, the flaps 31, 32, 33, 34 of the cover are positioned as follows: the first flap 31 and the second flap 32 of the cover 3 each extend respectively in the extension of the first panel 221 and the third panel 223 of the peripheral rim 22 and are positioned overlapping one another; the third flap 33 and the fourth flap 34 extend respectively overlapping the second panel 222 and the fourth panel 224 of the peripheral rim 22, and extend substantially in the extension of one another.

[0137] The tray is located in its storage position, that is to say it is located near the bottom 21 of the box 2.

[0138] Means 4 for holding the package 1 in the folded position may be arranged on the third flap 33 and the fourth flap 34 of the cover 3, these means 4 for holding the package in the folded position being able, for example, to take the form of a mechanical adhesive. These holding means make it possible in particular to avoid unwanted shaping of the box 2.

[0139] Thus, in this storage configuration, package 1 has a low thickness compared to the thickness it has when in use.

[0140] To shape the box 2 and therefore the package 1, the user acts on the third flap 33 and the fourth flap 34 of the cover to pivot them and gain access to the first panel 221 and the third panel 223 of the peripheral rim 22.

[0141] The user then grasps the first panel 221 and the third panel 223 of the peripheral rim 22 to position them in their position of use by exerting traction towards the outside of the box 2, that is to say opposite the bottom 21.

[0142] During this movement, the drive elements 23 act in traction and exert a movement of displacement of the second panel 222 and of the fourth panel 224 of the peripheral rim 22 to position them in their position of use.

[0143] More specifically, the first portion and the second portion of the drive elements 23 have a rotational movement relative to each other thanks to the hinge.

[0144] Thus, the first part, which is integral with the first panel 221 or the third panel 223 of the peripheral rim 22, transmits, via the hinge, its action to the second part of the drive elements 23 which is itself fixed or integral with the second panel 222 or the fourth panel 224 of the peripheral rim 22, which causes the movement of the second panel 222 and the fourth panel 224 of the peripheral rim 22.

[0145] When the body 2 is shaped, that is to say when each of the first panel 221, the second panel 222, the third panel 223 and the fourth panel 224 of the peripheral rim 22 is in its position of use, the retaining means 25 come into action to block the panels 221, 222, 223, 224 in their position of use.

[0146] More particularly, the first part of the retaining means 25, integral with the second panel 222 or the fourth panel 224 of the peripheral rim 22, cooperates with the first part of the retaining means 25, integral with the first part of each of the drive elements 23.

[0147] The passage of the first panel 221 and the third panel 223 from their storage position to their use position is facilitated by the elastic connection 27.

[0148] Indeed, the tension in the elastic connection 27 which connects the rigid element 26, that is to say the tray, to the first panel 221 and to the third panel 223 of the peripheral rim 22, or to the cover 3, causes it to move away from the bottom 21 of the box. The rigid element 26 then rubs against the first panel 221 and the third panel 223 and causes the automatic movement of the first panel 221 away from the third panel 223. This thus limits the effort required by the user.

[0149] Once the box 2 has been shaped, the user can position an object O to be transported on the platform, i.e. on the rigid element 26.

[0150] The user can then position the lower face and in particular the flexible material secured to the third flap 33 and the fourth flap 34 of the cover 3, opposite the tray, that is to say against the object O to be transported. In the embodiment of the figure 12 , only the third flap 33 carries the flexible material, the latter thus being deformed in contact with the object O to be transported.

[0151] As seen on the figure 12 , the object O is suitably held between the third flap 33 and the tray, i.e. the rigid element 26. The object O can thus no longer move in the storage volume of the package 1. This holding in position is notably increased by the presence of the non-slip coating on the tray, i.e. on the rigid element 16.

[0152] Always as illustrated on the figure 12 , the elastic connection 27 is slightly stretched, that is to say that the rigid element 26, and more particularly the elastic member, are in a constrained position.

[0153] In other words, the elastic connection 27 tends to return the plate towards the cover 3, thus forcing the contact of the object O on the flexible material, which prevents the movement of the object O by friction in particular.

[0154] The user can then fold the second flap 32 then the first flap 31 over the third flap 33 and the fourth flap 34, so as to definitively close the package 1.

[0155] Means for ad hoc holding of the first flap 31 on at least one of the panels 221, 222, 223, 224 of the peripheral rim 22, for example on the second panel 222 and / or on the third panel 223 and / or on the fourth panel 224 of the peripheral rim 22 may in particular be provided.

[0156] The package 1 thus closed can then be routed via a standard distribution network and the routing data can be loaded and displayed on the digital communication panel 28.

[0157] Advantageously, the package 1, in particular its box 2 and its cover 3, can in particular be made from extruded polypropylene, such as the trade names Akylux ®<, Akyplein ®< and Akyboard ®< from the manufacturer DS SMITH, or from expanded polypropylene, that is to say in the form of foam, as sold by the company Storopack.

Claims

1. A parcel (1) comprising a case (2) defining a stowage volume, and a lid (3) intended to close the stowage volume of the case (2), the case (2) having a bottom (21) and a peripheral rim (22) comprising: - a first panel (221); - a second panel (222); - a third panel (223) opposite to the first panel (221); - a fourth panel (224) opposite to the second panel (222), each of the first panel (221), of the second panel (222), of the third panel (223) and of the fourth panel (224) being able to adopt: - a stowage position in which it extends substantially parallel to the bottom (21); - a use position in which it extends substantially perpendicular to the bottom (21); the case (2) further comprising a rigid element (26) connected to the first panel (221) and to the third panel (223) by an elastic connection (27), the rigid element (26) being movable between: - a storage position of the case (2) corresponding to the stowage position of the panels (221) of the peripheral rim (22), in which the rigid element (26) is located in the vicinity of the bottom (21); - a use position of the case (2) corresponding to the use position of the panels (221, 222, 223, 224) of the peripheral rim (22), in which the rigid element (26) is spaced away from the bottom (21), the elastic connection (27) tending to move the rigid element (26) from its storage position to its use position. characterized in that the rigid element (26) is a plate of a length equal to the distance between the first panel (221) and the third panel (223) in their use position.

2. The parcel (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the case (2) also comprises at least: - a first drive element (23) interposed between the first panel (221) and the second panel (222) or the fourth panel (224) of the peripheral rim (22); - a second drive element (23) interposed between the third panel (223) and the second panel (222) or the fourth panel (224) of the peripheral rim (22).

3. The parcel (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the elastic connection (27) comprises at least one elastically deformable strip or cable.

4. The parcel (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the case (2) also comprises means (25) for retaining the first panel (221), the second panel (222), the third panel (223) and the fourth panel (224) in their use position.

5. The parcel (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the retaining means (25) comprise two parts each permanently mounted on the peripheral rim (22) of the case (2).

6. The parcel (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the lid (3) comprises: - a first flap (31) pivotally mounted on the first panel (221) of the peripheral rim (22); - a second flap (32) pivotally mounted on the third panel (223) of the peripheral rim (22); - a third flap (33) pivotally mounted on the second panel (222) of the peripheral rim (22); - a fourth flap (34) pivotally mounted on the fourth panel (224) of the peripheral rim (22), each flap (31, 32, 33, 34) being movable between a closed position in which it prevents access to the stowage volume of the case (2), and an open position in which it leaves free access to the stowage volume of the case (2).

7. The parcel (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that, in their closed position, the first flap (31) and the second flap (32) extend in the continuation of each other, and the third flap (33) and the fourth flap (34) extend by overlapping each other and by overlapping the first flap (31) and the second flap (32).

8. The parcel (1) according to claim 6, characterized in that, in their closed position, the third flap (33) and the fourth flap (34) extend in the continuation of each other, and the first flap (31) and the second flap (32) extend by overlapping each other and by overlapping the third flap (33) and the fourth flap (34).

9. The parcel (1) according to claim 7 or claim 8, characterized in that the first flap (34) and the second flap (32), or the third flap (33) and the fourth flap (34), which extend in the continuation of each other, each have an inner surface facing the stowage volume in their closed position, the inner surface being covered with a non-slip coating and / or a flexible material able to be deformed by an object (O) contained in the stowage volume.

10. The parcel (1) according to claim 4, characterized in that the plate bears a non-slip coating and / or a flexible material allowing the retention of an object (O) in the stowage volume of the case (2).

11. The parcel (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that it comprises a digital communication panel (28) secured to one of the first panel (224), of the second panel (222), of the third panel (223) or of the fourth panel (224) of the peripheral rim (22) of the case (2), or to the lid (3).

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