Device and method for packaging containers

Abstract

The present invention relates to a device (1) for packaging at least two containers (2) in a batch (100), the containers (2) being bottles with a neck (20), comprising at least one sheet (3) of semi-rigid or rigid material. The packaging device (1) is characterized in that the at least one sheet (3) comprises at least two parts, a first part (30), termed support part, provided with at least two orifices (4) for receiving the necks (20) of the containers (2), and a second part (31), termed reinforcing part, provided with at least one opening (6), the sheet (3) comprising at least one fold line (7) separating the first part (30) and the second part (31), and in that the at least one opening (6) is able to cover at least one of the orifices (4) of the support part (30) in a covering folding position of the reinforcing part (31). The invention also relates to a method for packaging containers (2) in a batch (100) that uses such a packaging device (1).

Description

[0001] Description

[0002] Title: Device and method for packaging containers

[0003] Technical field: The present invention relates to the field of packaging containers in batches. Its subject more particularly is a device for packaging at least two containers in a batch. It also relates to a method for packaging at least two containers in a batch using the device according to the invention.

[0004] The invention also relates to a method of cutting sheets for producing a packaging device according to the invention.

[0005] In the context of the present invention, the container is a bottle or flask, the container being provided with a neck. Such a container is intended to contain, but not limited to, a fluid, a liquid, powders or granules, in particular of the food or cosmetic type.

[0006] For handling purposes, such finished containers are packaged in batches. Each batch therefore comprises several containers, arranged in a matrix arrangement, for example, generally in a parallelepiped shape, often square or rectangular, in columns and rows. For illustration purposes, a typical batch comprises six containers arranged in two rows and three columns.

[0007] Once the groups of containers have been produced, it is necessary to carry out a step called bundling, which consists of covering each group of containers with a film, in order to facilitate the handling of the batch thus obtained.

[0008] This bundling step involves significant energy expenditure. Furthermore, using plastic film is harmful to the environment, as nearly half of the plastic waste found in the sea is single-use plastic items.

[0009] Currently, many plastics are said to be "recyclable," but this approach is generally insufficient and unsatisfactory. Indeed, the use of shrink-wrapped plastic films has many negative impacts on the environment: significant energy expenditure, single use, low recycling rates, massive export of plastic waste to countries with recycling infrastructure, etc. In addition, the composition of the film, which is only partially recyclable, will complicate the process, and the resulting waste will not be recovered in the vast majority of cases.

[0010] Furthermore, the use of a plastic film that covers the products makes it impossible to detach one of the containers from the batch without causing the latter to completely disintegrate.

[0011] Thus, there is a growing need to find an alternative to the use of this material, which generates a lot of waste and is energy-intensive, while still guaranteeing its strength and allowing it to be handled.

[0012] Technical background: In this field, a known alternative to using shrink-wrapped plastic film for batch formation is to hold the products together using plastic strapping or banding, which will surround the containers. This solution is not satisfactory because it generally requires the use of other additional means of batch sealing, such as adhesives.

[0013] Furthermore, document US20080257763 discloses a solution consisting of using a cardboard tray, which will support the products at their base. This solution does not require the use of additional means. However, in this configuration, it is not possible to lift the batch, nor to transport it easily. It is also not possible to easily transport a subgroup of the products in the batch.

[0014] In order to be able to lift the batch, another solution, described in document WO201 3185898, consists of using a rigid plate, made of cardboard or plastic, to hold the containers at a restriction of the container at the level of its body. However, this solution is very limited because it can only be applied to certain shapes of containers. In addition, the solidity of the batch is not guaranteed, particularly in the case of packaging large format containers.

[0015] Document US 2,299,625 is also known, which describes a packaging device in the form of a cardboard plate comprising a plurality of orifices and a handle. All these solutions are therefore unsatisfactory. Indeed, either they are always made of a plastic material, or, if they are provided with a means of gripping, they do not guarantee the integrity of the batch during its handling.

[0016] Summary of the invention: The invention thus aims to provide a device for the batch packaging of at least two containers, which is reliable, solid and ecological, both in its composition and in the quantity of waste generated. Thus, the environmental impact of the invention is significantly reduced compared to packaging using plastic material.

[0017] The invention also relates to a batch packaging method using a packaging device as described below.

[0018] To do this, the invention proposes a solution aimed at packaging at least two containers in a batch by means of a rigid or semi-rigid sheet comprising two parts, a support part which will hold the containers at the level of their neck, and which comprises a reinforcement part.

[0019] To this end, the invention relates to a device for packaging at least two containers in a batch, said containers being bottles with a neck and comprising at least one sheet of semi-rigid or rigid material.

[0020] The packaging device according to the invention is characterized in that said at least one sheet comprises at least two parts, a first part, called the support part, provided with at least two orifices for receiving the necks of said containers and a second part, called the reinforcement part, provided with at least one opening, said sheet comprising at least one fold line separating the first part and the second part, and in that said at least one opening is capable of covering at least one of the orifices of said support part, in the folded position covering said reinforcement part.

[0021] In embodiments, the center of the opening is aligned with the center of one of said orifices, such that the second part is able to fold over the first part and said opening then covers the neck of the container supported by said orifice.

[0022] According to a possible additional feature, the second part of the at least one sheet comprises a gripping means. The gripping means makes it possible to grasp the batch thus formed, to move it, to lift it. Advantageously, the gripping means is a gripping opening which extends along a distal end of the second part, on the side opposite the first part.

[0023] In possible embodiments, the orifices of the first part and the opening of the second part of a sheet are of the same shape and dimensions.

[0024] Advantageously, the orifices of the first part of the sheet have an oblong or ovoid shape.

[0025] According to a possible additional feature, the at least two parts of the sheet have a rectangular shape.

[0026] In embodiments, the orifices of the first portion of the sheet are aligned longitudinally to form a row.

[0027] According to a variant, the proximal portion of the second part of the sheet is connected to the first part of said sheet by two cut sides extending on either side of said second part, said proximal portion thus having a trapezoidal shape.

[0028] Advantageously, the first part of the sheet comprises a curvilinear cutting line following an arc of a circle behind the orifices, on the side of the second part.

[0029] In embodiments, the center of each cutting line coincides with the center of each orifice.

[0030] According to a possible additional feature, the first portion of the sheet includes a main line of weakness extending along the fold line.

[0031] In embodiments, the first portion of the sheet includes a primary line of weakness extending along the fold line and secondary lines of weakness extending transversely between the apertures from the first primary line of weakness to the edges of the distal end of the first portion.

[0032] Advantageously, the first part of the sheet comprises openings made at the intersections of the first main line of weakness and the transverse secondary lines of weakness. In possible embodiments, the at least one sheet of the packaging device comprises a third part, called a flap, said flap being located on the side opposite the second part, in the extension of the first part of said sheet.

[0033] The invention also relates to a batch of at least four containers, said containers being bottles, each being provided with a neck, said batch comprising at least one packaging device comprising at least two sheets. The batch is characterized in that the first sheet of the packaging device cooperates with at least one second sheet of said device, each sheet forming a sub-batch of at least two containers.

[0034] The invention also relates to a method of packaging at least two containers in a batch, using a packaging device as described above, said containers being bottles, each being provided with a neck in which at least one grouping of at least two containers is carried out.

[0035] The method is characterized in that it comprises at least the following steps:

[0036] - the neck of each of the containers is introduced into an orifice in the first part of the at least one sheet of the packaging device,

[0037] - the second part of said at least one sheet is folded into an overlapping folding position over the first part, until the neck of one of the containers is housed in at least one opening of said second part.

[0038] The invention also relates to a method for cutting from a strip 300 of rigid or semi-rigid material, in particular paper or cardboard material, at least one packaging device as described above. The cutting method is characterized in that the sheets of the packaging device have a general T shape and are arranged head to tail and adjacent to each other.

[0039] The invention finally relates to an installation for packaging at least two containers in a batch, implementing the method as described above, said installation thus producing batches according to the invention. The installation comprises:

[0040] - at least one grouping station - at least one station for affixing a packaging device as described previously.

[0041] Brief description of the figures: The invention will be better understood thanks to the description below, which is based on possible embodiments, explained in an illustrative and in no way limiting manner, with reference to the appended figures, in which:

[0042] - [Fig. 1] schematically represents a perspective view of an embodiment of a batch of six containers in the form of bottles, held together by a packaging device comprising two sheets;

[0043] - [Fig. 2] schematically represents a view similar to figure 1, showing in particular the second reinforcement parts in the deployed position;

[0044] - [Fig. 3] schematically represents a view similar to Figure 2, in which said batch is separated into two sub-batches, each being held by one of the two sheets of a packaging device;

[0045] - [Fig. 4] schematically represents a simplified flat top view of an embodiment of a sheet of a packaging device;

[0046] - [Fig. 5] schematically represents a simplified flat top view of another embodiment of a sheet of a packaging device;

[0047] - [Fig. 6] schematically represents a simplified view of several packaging devices produced by cutting within a strip; and

[0048] - [Fig.7] schematically represents the packaging installation.

[0049] Detailed description of the invention: In the remainder of the description, elements having an identical structure or similar functions will be designated by the same reference.

[0050] The invention thus firstly relates to a device 1 for packaging in a batch 100 which comprises at least two containers 2, and at least one sheet 3 of semi-rigid or rigid material, provided with at least two orifices 4 for receiving the necks 20 of the containers 2.

[0051] In the context of the invention, the container 2 is a bottle or flask. It can be made of any material, in particular plastic or glass. Preferably, the container is made of polyethylene terephthalate, hereinafter PET. The container 2 can therefore be rigid or semi-rigid. It is intended to contain a fluid, a liquid, powders or granules, in particular of the food or cosmetic type. The container 2 can have any type of shape, symmetrical or not. It can have a rounded section, generally circular or ovoidal in shape, or a polygonal section, in particular rectangular or square. Preferably, said containers 2 have a rounded section, in particular generally circular.

[0052] As is known, within an industrial line, containers can undergo several different successive treatments, such as the manufacture of the container, for example during a plastic injection operation or stretch-blow molding in the case of a plastic bottle, followed by filling and then closing with a cap and labeling. At the end of these treatments, the containers are said to be "finished".

[0053] Containers 2 have a body and a bottom. In a normal orientation, container 2 rests on its bottom. The bottom may be flat or petal-shaped. Container 1 also includes a neck 20.

[0054] The container 2 may optionally have a label 13. Said label 13 may be affixed to the body of the container 2, or be attached to the neck of said container 2, in the form of a ticket. The label 13 may also be in the form of a shrink sleeve, which will fit the shape of said container 2. The label 13, when present, has the function of delivering information on the contents of the container 2, or even an advertising message, a logo, a bar code.

[0055] For handling, such finished containers are packaged in batches of 100.

[0056] Each batch 100 therefore comprises several containers 2, assembled for example in a matrix arrangement, generally of a generally parallelepiped shape, often square or rectangular, according to columns and rows.

[0057] A batch 100 according to the invention comprises at least two containers 2, preferably at least four containers 2, and more preferably at least six containers 2.

[0058] When packaging, the containers 2 can also be arranged in a staggered pattern. A staggered batch can offer several advantages. In particular, the staggered arrangement provides more contact points between the grouped containers. Furthermore, the additional friction between the containers will increase the batch's strength. The staggered arrangement also optimizes the space between the containers, and therefore represents a gain in storage capacity. It is then possible to stack more batches 100 on a pallet.

[0059] Furthermore, the term “compact” corresponds to a batch 100 in which containers 2 are brought together and positioned side by side, placed next to each other when they are grouped according to one of the configurations described. The containers 2 are held together by at least one packaging device 1. Once the containers 2 are grouped and packaged, i.e. wrapped, they are then integral with each other, integrally forming a batch 100. The containers 2 of such a batch 100 are then inseparable, except when said batch 100 is deliberately dismantled to extract one or more containers 2.

[0060] In certain embodiments, the batch 100 comprises at least four containers 2, at least one sub-batch 101 comprising at least two of said containers 2 and at least one packaging device 1.

[0061] In embodiments, the batch 100 can in fact be subdivided into at least one sub-batch 101. According to additional characteristics, each sub-batch 101 can bring together at most four containers 2, at most three containers 2. Each sub-batch 101 can extend transversely, that is to say along the columns of the batch 100, or longitudinally, that is to say along the rows of said batch. The sub-batch(s) 101 will advantageously be oriented according to the number of containers 2 forming the batch 100, in order to optimize its strength. According to the invention, the packaging device 1 comprises at least one sheet 3 made of semi-rigid or rigid material. The semi-rigid or rigid material is for example a cardboard sheet, or a sheet comprising a superposition of paper folds. Preferably, the sheet 3 is composed mainly or predominantly of cellulose fibers.Of course, without departing from the scope of the invention, the semi-rigid or rigid material can be any material well known to those skilled in the art.

[0062] Sheet 3 comprises at least two parts 30, 31.

[0063] The first part 30 is a so-called support part. It is provided with at least two orifices 4. The orifices 4 are orifices for receiving the necks 20 of the containers 2. In other words, the necks 20 of the containers 2 are intended to be introduced into the orifices 4 during the packaging step in a batch 100.

[0064] The second part 31 is a so-called reinforcement part. According to a possible variant, the second part 31 comprises a gripping means 5, for moving, lifting, using the batch 100. It also comprises at least one opening 6. The opening 6 is capable of covering at least one of the orifices 4 of the first support part 30. In other words, the opening 6 comes in line with one of the orifices 4 of the support part 30. The opening 6 of the second part 31 therefore comes to overlap, at least partially, one of the orifices 4 of the first support part 30.

[0065] The sheet 3 also comprises at least one fold line 7 which separates the first part 30 from the second part 31. In other words, the fold line 7 creates a demarcation between the first part 30 and the second part 31. Thus, when the second part 31 is folded, at the level of the fold line 7, so as to at least partially cover, for example, the first part 30 of said sheet 3, the opening 6 of the second part 31 will come to align at least partially with an orifice 4.

[0066] According to a possible additional characteristic, the center 60 of the opening 6 is aligned with the center 40 of one of the orifices 4, such that the second part 31 called the reinforcement part is able to fold down at least partly above the first part 30, said opening 6 then covering the neck 20 of the container 2 supported by said orifice 4.

[0067] Figure 1 shows a perspective view of an embodiment of a batch 100 of six containers 2 in the form of bottles, held together in two sub-batches 101 by two sheets 3 of a packaging device 1, showing in particular the second gripping parts 31 in the folded position, partially covering one of the first parts 30 of one of said two sheets 3 of the packaging device 1.

[0068] In this configuration, the second part 31 of the first sheet 3 is folded over the first part 30 of the first sheet 3, and the second part 31 of the second sheet 3 is folded over the first part 30 of the first sheet.

[0069] Thus, in embodiments, the part 31 of a first sheet 3, at the fold line 7, can be folded either onto the part 30 joined to said first sheet 3, or onto a part 30 of a second sheet 3 of a device 1. This advantageously makes it possible to reinforce the solidity of the batch 100, the two sheets 3 then being connected by the capping of the same neck 20 through the opening 6 of the parts 31 of said sheets 2. In other words, in the case where the packaging device 1 comprises at least two sheets 3, said sheets 3 cooperate to keep the containers 2 grouped together.

[0070] In the embodiment illustrated in figure 1, each of the sheets 3 comprises three orifices 4, each receiving a neck 20 of a container 2.

[0071] According to a possible additional characteristic, visible in figure 1, the sheet 3 comprises a third part, called flap 32. This third part, the flap 32, is located on the side opposite the second part 31, in the extension of the first part 30. The flap 32 can in particular serve as a support for printing information specific to the batch 100, of the advertising or commercial type, or for example a bar code. The third part, that is to say the flap 32, can then have a coating on its external face, for aesthetic and / or informative purposes.

[0072] Figure 2 schematically represents a view similar to Figure 1, showing in particular the second gripping parts 31 in the deployed position. In this configuration, the user can then handle the batch 100. As visible in Figure 3, the user can also choose to dismantle the batch 100 and only grasp one of the sub-batches 101. According to a possible additional characteristic, visible in particular in Figure 1, the at least one sheet 3 of the packaging device 1 comprises a gripping means 5.

[0073] Preferably, the gripping means 5 is located on the second part 31 of the sheet 3.

[0074] According to a possible technical characteristic, the gripping means 5 is an opening 50 which extends along a distal end of said second part 31, on the side opposite the first part 30 of the sheet 3. This embodiment is particularly advantageous because it facilitates the gripping of a batch 100 or a sub-batch 101, being sufficiently long to allow the insertion of the user's fingers for handling said batch 100 or said sub-batch 101.

[0075] In the context of the invention, the orifices 4 of the first part 30 and the at least one opening 6 of the second part may be of any shape and of any size. In particular, the orifices 4 and the openings 6 may be circular, oblong or ovoid, rectangular, square, etc. The shape of the orifices 4 may be different from the shape of the openings 6.

[0076] According to a possible characteristic, the orifices 4 and the openings 6 are circular in shape in order to have a shape complementary to the shape of the necks 20 of the containers 2.

[0077] According to a preferred embodiment, at least the orifices 4 of the first part 30 of a sheet 3 have an oblong or ovoid shape. This shape is particularly advantageous because it facilitates the insertion of the necks 20 of the containers into said orifices 4.

[0078] According to a possible embodiment, the orifices 4 and the openings 6 are of dimensions equivalent to or slightly greater than the dimensions of a neck 20 of a container 2. Preferably, the orifices 4 and the openings 6 are of dimensions slightly smaller than the dimensions of a neck 20 of a container 2, in order to reinforce the packaging device 1.

[0079] Incidentally, said orifices 4 and / or said openings 6 comprise radial slots in order to adapt the dimensions of said orifices 4 and / or said openings 6 to the dimensions of the necks 20 of the containers 2. According to a possible characteristic, in the case where the orifices 4 and the openings 6 are circular in shape, their diameter is equal to, or greater than, preferably less than, the diameter of a neck 20 of a container 2. Advantageously, the diameter of the orifices 4 is slightly less than the diameter of a neck 20 of a container 2. Indeed, the container 2 must be held during the transport of a batch 100. However, the diameter of the orifices 4 must be sufficient so as not to tear the orifice 4 when the container 2 is introduced into the packaging device 1. Thus, in embodiments, the diameter of the orifices 4 is approximately one to two millimeters less than the diameter of a neck 20 of a container 2.

[0080] However, the dimensions of the orifices 4 may be different from the dimensions of the openings 6. Thus, the openings 6 may have a larger dimension in order to facilitate the deployment of the second part 31 and therefore to facilitate the handling of a batch 100 or a sub-batch 101.

[0081] According to a possible additional feature, the orifices 4 have the same dimensions as the openings 6.

[0082] Thus, in embodiments, the orifices 4 of the first part 30 of a sheet 3 and the at least one opening 6 of the second part 31 are of different shape and / or dimensions.

[0083] In a preferred embodiment, the orifices 4 and the openings 6 have the same shape and / or the same dimensions.

[0084] According to a possible additional characteristic, the orifices 4 have a plurality of tabs 41. The presence of tabs 41 makes it easier to pass the neck 20 of a container 2 when it is inserted into a sheet 3 by folding said tabs 41 and serves as a stop when locking in the opposite direction. As mentioned previously, when producing a batch 100, the containers 2 are previously grouped, generally in the form of a matrix. Preferably, the orifices 4 of the part 30 of a sheet 3 are aligned longitudinally so as to form a row. Thus, the positioning of a sheet 3 above a group of containers 2 is facilitated, the orifices 4 covering the necks 20 of said containers 2. It is understood that the orifices 4 of the first part 30 of the sheet 3 can be organized according to the arrangement of the containers 20 within a batch 100 or a sub-batch 101.The orifices 4 can therefore also be arranged in such a way as to facilitate the packaging of a batch in staggered rows.

[0085] According to an embodiment illustrated in Figure 4, the first part 30 of a sheet 3 has a rectangular shape. The proximal portion 310 of the second part 31 of the same sheet 3 is connected to the second part 30 by two cut sides 8 extending on either side of said second part 31. As visible in Figure 4, the proximal portion 310 thus has a trapezoidal shape. The packaging device 1 generally has a general T shape.

[0086] According to a possible additional feature, the parts 30 and 31 of a sheet 3 have a rectangular or generally rectangular shape. The edges of said parts 30 and 31 are not necessarily straight. In other words, the edges of the first part 30 and / or the second part 31 may be straight, rounded or beveled.

[0087] According to a possible variant, illustrated in figure 4, the first part 30 of the sheet 3 is provided with a cutting line 9 or pre-cutting line of curvilinear shape, following an arc of a circle behind the orifices 4, on the side of the second part 31.

[0088] Preferably, the pre-cut line 9 has a shape following an arc of a circle of 180 degrees.

[0089] This pre-cut line 9 is particularly advantageous because it also makes it possible to direct the forces, when lifting the batch, towards the rear of the sheet 3, and not towards the front edges. Indeed, in the absence of a pre-cut line 9, when lifting a batch 100 or a sub-batch 101, a clearance is created between the orifice 4 and the neck 20 on the side of the second part 31, and there is therefore a risk of a container 2 coming out. In the presence of a cutting line 9, when lifting a batch 100 or a sub-batch 101, the orifice 4 will tighten around the neck 20 of the container 2 which will be firmly held. Thus, the solidity of the packaging device 1 is further improved. According to a preferred embodiment, the center 90 of each cutting line 9 is coincident, that is to say aligned, with the center 40 of each orifice 4.This further increases the resistance of a packaging device 1 when lifting, moving, in short, handling a batch 100 or a sub-batch 101.

[0090] As described above, in order to achieve optimal packaging of a group of containers 2 in the form of a batch 100 or a sub-batch 101, it is necessary to guarantee the strength and reliability of such a batch 100 or sub-batch 101.

[0091] Another constraint consists in being able to easily remove one of the containers 2, without having to dismantle the entire batch 100, that is to say without having to tear up or destroy the packaging device 1.

[0092] Advantageously, in embodiments, the first portion 30 comprises a main line of weakness 10 extending along the fold line 7.

[0093] According to a possible additional feature, illustrated in Figure 5, the first part 30 comprises both a main line of weakness 10 and secondary lines of weakness 11 extending transversely between the orifices 4 from the main line of weakness 10 to the edges of the distal end of said first part 30. In other words, in this possible embodiment, the first part 30 comprises a main line of weakness 10 and secondary lines of weakness 11.

[0094] The main line of weakness 10 and / or the secondary lines of weakness 11 may be produced in different ways. In particular, they may be dotted lines or a reduction in thickness of the packaging device 1 in a localized manner. It is entirely possible to have a main line of weakness 10 produced differently from secondary lines of weakness 11.

[0095] In embodiments where the sheet 3 comprises a main line of weakness 10, it is possible to separate the first part 30 from the sheet 3 and therefore to grasp the containers 2 supported therein without difficulty. Advantageously, when the sheet 3 also comprises secondary lines of weakness 11, it is then extremely simple to remove a single container 2 from the batch 100 or from a sub-batch 101.

[0096] According to another possible characteristic, when the sheet 3 comprises a third part which is in the form of a flap 32, the secondary lines of weakness 11 extend to the distal end of said flap 32. The flap 32 can also fulfill the same function as the label 13. It is then possible to grasp a container 2, provided with a label 13 on the part of the flap 32 still attached to the neck 20 of said container 2. This embodiment is notably visible in figure 5.

[0097] According to a possible additional feature, the first part 30 comprises slots 12 made at the intersections of the main line of weakness 10 and the transverse secondary lines of weakness 11. The slots 12 can be of any shape, for example triangular, oval. They can for example be made in the form of perforations.

[0098] This further facilitates the removal of a container 2 without harming the strength of the entire packaging device 1.

[0099] The invention also relates to a batch 100 of at least four containers 2; said containers 2 being bottles, each being provided with a neck 20, comprising a packaging device 1 comprising at least two sheets 3. In this embodiment, a first sheet 3 of the packaging device 1 cooperates with at least one second sheet 3, each sheet 3 then forming a sub-batch 101 of at least two containers 2.

[0100] In other words, the at least two sheets 3 of the device cooperate with each other so as to form a batch 100, said batch 100 then comprising at least two sub-batches 101.

[0101] The invention also relates to a method of packaging in a batch 100 at least two containers 2, said containers 2 being bottles, each being provided with a neck 20, by means of a packaging device 1 as described previously.

[0102] The packaging process comprises at least the following steps:

[0103] - at least two containers 2 are grouped together, - the neck 20 of each of the containers 2 is introduced into an orifice 4 of the first part 30 of the packaging device 1,

[0104] - the second part 31 is folded into the covering position over the first part 30, until the neck 20 of one of the containers 2 is housed in the at least one opening 6 of said second part 31.

[0105] In embodiments, the device 1 comprises at least two sheets 3. The method then comprises an additional step of folding the second part 31 of the second sheet 3 onto the first part 30 of the first sheet 3.

[0106] In particular, the packaging method, in embodiments, comprises at least the following steps:

[0107] - a grouping of a first subgroup of at least two containers 2 is carried out,

[0108] - the neck 20 of each of the containers 2 of the first subgroup is introduced into an orifice 4 of the first part 30 of a first sheet 3 of the packaging device 1,

[0109] - the second part 31 is folded into the covering position over the first part 30, until the neck 20 of one of the containers 2 is housed in at least one opening 6 of said second part 31, this step corresponding to the formation of a first sub-batch 101,

[0110] - a grouping of a second subgroup of at least two containers 2 is carried out,

[0111] - the neck 20 of each of the containers 2 of the second subgroup is introduced into an orifice 4 of the first part 30 of a second sheet 3 of the packaging device 1,

[0112] - the second part 31 of the second sheet 3 is folded over the first part 30 of the first sheet 3, until the neck 20 of one of the containers is housed in at least one opening 6 of said second part 31 of the second sheet, this step corresponding to the formation of a second sub-batch 101 and the joining of two sub-batches 101 together so as to form a batch 100.

[0113] According to a possible variant, a single grouping of at least four containers 2 is carried out, and a first sheet 3 then a second sheet 3 of a packaging device is successively affixed. In other words, the containers 2 are grouped in a single step then at least two sub-batches 101 of a batch 100 are prepared by affixing at least two sheets 3 of a packaging device 1.

[0114] It is understood that the method comprises as many additional steps of folding the second part 31 onto a first part 30 as necessary, depending on the number of sheets 3 of the packaging device 1.

[0115] The invention also relates to a method of cutting from a strip 300 of rigid or semi-rigid material at least one packaging device 1 according to the invention, the sheets 3 of the device 1 having a general T shape and being arranged head to tail and adjacent to each other.

[0116] Advantageously, and as visible in Figure 6, the general shape of the sheets 3 and their arrangement on a strip of rigid or semi-rigid material makes it possible to limit the waste linked to the cutting of said sheets 3. This further improves the environmental impact of the invention.

[0117] As mentioned above, the rigid or semi-rigid material may, for example, be a cardboard material, or even paper, composed of at least one ply, preferably at least two plies of cellulose.

[0118] The invention finally relates to an installation for packaging at least two containers 2 in a batch 100 implementing the method of the invention, said installation thus producing batches 100 as described here in the various possible variants. Said installation therefore implements the packaging device 1 of the invention.

[0119] To do this, as visible in figure 7, the installation comprises at least one grouping station 14, to produce groups or subgroups of containers 2.

[0120] In embodiments, and as illustrated in FIG. 7, the grouping of the containers 2 is done in a single step.

[0121] The installation also comprises at least one affixing station 15 of a packaging device 1 according to the invention. This affixing station makes it possible to insert the necks 20 of the containers 2 previously grouped into the orifices 4 of the first part 30 of a sheet 3. In possible embodiments, the installation comprises a first grouping station 14 for producing subgroups of containers 2, and a first affixing station 15 of a sheet 3 of a packaging device 1. The installation then also comprises a second grouping station 14 for grouping two sub-batches 101 together and folding the second part 31 of the sheets 3.

[0122] We therefore understand that it is possible to have two separate stations: an affixing station 15 for affixing a sheet 3 and a folding station for folding a sheet 3.

[0123] Of course, and as illustrated in figure 7, it is also possible to carry out the two actions of affixing and folding a sheet 3 by a single station.

[0124] In Figure 7, a cutting station 16 cuts sheets 3 to then supply them to an affixing station 15. The affixing station 15 therefore affixes a first sheet 3 to a first subgroup of three containers 2, carries out the folding of the second part 31 of the first sheet 3 onto the first part 30. Then, the same affixing station 15 affixes a second sheet 3 to a second subgroup of three containers 2, and finally carries out the folding of the second part 31 of the second sheet 3 onto the first part 30 of the first sheet 3.

[0125] The invention therefore relates to a packaging device 1 which makes it possible to produce batches 100 of at least two containers 2, said device 1 being particularly reliable, solid, and ecological.

[0126] Furthermore, the packaging device 1 makes it possible, in embodiments, to easily separate a subgroup of containers, forming a subbatch 101 from a batch 100, the subbatch 101 being manipulable.

[0127] The packaging device 1 has an excellent environmental impact and makes it possible to limit the quantity of waste generated, both by its material, its weight, or even its shape which makes it possible to optimize the cutting processes.

[0128] Although the above description is based on particular embodiments, it is in no way limiting of the scope of the invention, and modifications may be made, in particular by substitution of technical equivalents or by different combination of all or part of the characteristics developed above.

Claims

CLAIMS 1. Device (1) for packaging in a batch (100) at least two containers (2), said containers (2) being bottles with a neck (20), comprising - at least one sheet (3) of semi-rigid or rigid material, said packaging device (1) being characterized in that - said at least one sheet (3) comprises at least two parts, a first part (30), called the support part, provided with at least two orifices (4) for receiving the necks (20) of said containers (2) and a second part (31), called the reinforcement part, provided with at least one opening (6), said sheet (3) comprising at least one folding line (7) separating the first part (30) and the second part (31), and in that said at least one opening (6) is capable of covering at least one of the orifices (4) of said support part (30), in the folded position covering said reinforcement part (31).

2. Packaging device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the center (60) of the opening (6) is aligned with the center (40) of one of said orifices (4), such that the second part (31) is able to fold over the first part (30), said opening (6) then covering the neck (20) of the container (2) supported by said orifice (4).

3. Packaging device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the second part (31) of the at least one sheet (3) comprises a gripping means (5).

4. Packaging device (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that the gripping means (5) is a gripping opening (50) which extends along a distal end of the second part (31), on the side opposite the first part (30).

5. Packaging device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the orifices (4) of the first part (30) and the opening (6) of the second part (31) of a sheet (3) are of the same shape and the same dimensions.

6. Packaging device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that at least the orifices (4) of the first part (30) of the sheet (3) have an oblong or ovoid shape.

7. Packaging device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 6, characterized in that the at least two parts (30, 31) of the sheet (3) have a rectangular shape.

8. Packaging device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the orifices (4) of the first part (30) of the sheet (3) are aligned longitudinally so as to form a row.

9. Packaging device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the proximal portion (310) of the second part (31) of the sheet (3) is connected to the first part (30) of said sheet (3) by two cut sides (8) extending on either side of said second part (31), said proximal portion (310) thus having a trapezoidal shape.

10. Packaging device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first part (30) of the sheet (3) comprises a cutting line (9) of curvilinear shape following an arc of a circle at the rear of the orifices (4), on the side of the second part (31). 1 1. Packaging device (1) according to claim 10, characterized in that the center (90) of each cutting line (9) coincides with the center (40) of each orifice (4).

12. Packaging device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the first part (30) of the sheet (3) comprises a main line of weakness (10) extending along the fold line (7).

13. Packaging device (1) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that said first part (30) of the sheet (3) comprises secondary lines of weakness (11) extending transversely between the orifices (4) from the first main line of weakness (10) to the edges of the distal end of said first part (30).

14. Packaging device (1) according to claim 13, characterized in that the first part (30) of the sheet (3) comprises openings (12) made at the intersections of the first main line of weakness (10) and the transverse secondary lines of weakness (11).

15. Packaging device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the at least one sheet (3) comprises a third part, called flap (32), said flap (32) being located on the side opposite the second part (31), in the extension of the first part (30) of said sheet (3).

16. Batch (100) of at least four containers (2), said containers being bottles, each being provided with a neck (20), said batch (100) comprising at least one packaging device (1) comprising at least two sheets (3) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that a first sheet (3) of said packaging device (1) cooperates with at least one second sheet (3) of said packaging device (1), each sheet (3) forming a sub-batch (101) of at least two containers (2).

17. Method for packaging in a batch (100) at least two containers (2), by means of a packaging device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, said containers (2) being bottles, each being provided with a neck (20), in which at least - a grouping of at least two containers (2) is carried out, characterized in that it comprises at least the following steps: - the neck (20) of each of the containers (2) is introduced into an orifice (4) of the first part (30) of the at least one sheet (3) of the packaging device (1), - the second part (31) of said at least one sheet (3) is folded into the overlapping folding position over the first part (30), until the neck (20) of one of the containers (2) is housed in the at least one opening (6) of said second part (31).

18. Method for cutting from a strip (300) of rigid or semi-rigid material, in particular paper or cardboard material, at least one packaging device (1) according to one of claims 1 to 15, characterized in that the sheets (3) of said packaging device (1) have a general T shape and are arranged head to tail and adjacent to each other.

19. Installation for packaging at least two containers (2) in a batch (100), implementing the method according to one of claims 16 to 18, said installation thus producing batches (100) according to claim 16, said installation comprising: - at least one grouping station 14 - at least one affixing station 15 of a packaging device (1) according to claims 1 to 15.

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