Tray for receiving bottles and system for the storage and / or transport of bottles therewith

Abstract

The present invention relates to a tray for holding bottles, in which an internal structure with bottle recesses arranged in a grid is formed by the frame and fins, each bottle recess being designed to hold a single bottle, and each bottle, once placed in a bottle recess, being surrounded by at least two fins. Furthermore, the fins are spaced apart both from the frame and from each other and are not laterally connected to the frame or to each other, the fins being arranged such that at least two fins, which together with the frame and / or at least one further fin form a bottle recess, are at right angles to each other, and the fins being arranged such that they are each located at the point of tangency between two bottles when these are placed in two adjacent bottle recesses.The present invention also relates to a system for the storage and / or transport of bottles, comprising at least one tray according to the invention and a floor roller.

Description

[0001] The invention relates to a tray for receiving bottles comprising a plurality of fins and / or flat pins extending from the tray base, as well as a base roller and a system for storing and / or transporting bottles, comprising at least one tray and / or a base roller of the present invention. State of the art

[0002] In the beverage trade, it is common practice to stock and sell bottled beverages in defined container sizes. These characteristic container sizes are either multipacks, made of a foldable flat material, especially cardboard, containing four, six, or eight bottles, or bottle crates, usually made of plastic, containing a larger number of bottles, for example, 20 or 24. The plastic crates are dimensioned according to a standardized grid, allowing them to be easily stacked for logistical purposes and processed using a uniform deposit return system.

[0003] Given the legislation promoting the switch from single-use to reusable packaging, bottles sold in multipacks are now also preferably reusable. Therefore, it is necessary to ensure that the bottles can be transported safely and without breakage during return transport. When delivered, the bottles in a multipack are stabilized by the multipack itself. To store and deliver the multipacks efficiently, they are transported using a variety of carriers. The most common form is certainly the bottle crate, in which typically 6 to 24 bottles are held securely and separated from each other in a plastic crate with integrated dividers or cleats, preventing them from shifting.

[0004] Bottle crates can be stacked on top of each other without any additional securing measures. Another transport option is offered by low-sided trays, which are open structures with low sides and corresponding holders for the bottles. The advantage of such trays is that they are lighter overall and require less space when empty than bottle crates.

[0005] However, existing trays have the disadvantage that centering and stability of the inserted bottles are essentially only achieved by a second tray placed on top of the bottles in the first tray. Furthermore, existing trays do not adequately guarantee breakage-proof and quiet transport.

[0006] There is therefore a need for an improved tray suitable for accommodating bottles both in the state they are grouped together in multipacks and as individual bottles removed from the multipack and generally empty, in such a way that they can be transported safely, stably, and quietly. It is thus the object of the present invention to propose a solution for providing such a tray.

[0007] The present invention provides a tray that solves the above-mentioned problem. Disclosure of the invention

[0008] A tray for holding bottles is proposed. The tray according to the invention comprises a frame, a base, and a plurality of fins and / or flat pins projecting from the base, the tray frame forming side walls of the tray.

[0009] The tray of the present invention allows for the storage of both individual bottles and so-called multipacks, which are containers consisting of several of these bottles. Examples of such multipacks are the known six-packs and four-packs, in which six or four bottles, respectively, are connected to form a container via a bottle carrier. Multipacks are also known on the market in which eight bottles are connected to form a container via a container carrier, particularly for bottles.

[0010] The tray of the present invention is characterized in that, within the interior, a structure with bottle holders arranged in a grid is formed by the frame and the fins and / or flat pins, wherein each bottle holder is designed to accommodate a single bottle, and wherein a combination of several bottle holders is designed to accommodate a container carrier / multipack. Furthermore, the fins and / or flat pins are spaced both from the frame and from each other and are not laterally connected to the frame or to each other; that is, the fins and / or flat pins are freestanding within the interior and are connected to the tray only at their base via the floor. Each bottle, once placed in a bottle holder, is surrounded by at least two fins, or by at least two flat pins, or by at least one fin and at least one flat pin.Furthermore, the fins and / or flat quills are arranged so that, together with the frame and / or any partition, if present, and / or at least one other fin or flat quill, they form a bottle holder and are at right angles to each other. Furthermore, the fins and / or flat quills are arranged so that they are each located at the point of tangency between two bottles when these are inserted into two adjacent bottle holders.

[0011] The tray according to the invention differs from those of the prior art, among other things, in that fins and / or flat pins contribute to the formation of each bottle recess in the tray and thus to the centering of the bottle(s) in the bottle recess. A bottle inserted into the bottle recess is thus given a defined space and is enclosed and thereby protected on four sides.

[0012] The fins and / or flat pins, together with the tray frame and / or any divider, and / or any additional fins or flat pins, prevent individual bottles from tipping over within the tray. This effectively prevents individual bottles from tipping over even if some bottles are only partially inserted into the bottle holders. Furthermore, the improved lateral support of the individual bottles prevents contact between adjacent bottles, thus reducing noise during transport and preventing potential glass breakage. Consequently, the fins and / or flat pins work together to stabilize the bottle(s) in three-dimensional space.

[0013] In the present invention, a "fin" is understood to be a single-walled structural element that projects from the tray base and is essentially in the shape of a rectangular plate. A "flat pin," on the other hand, is understood to be a double-walled structural element that projects from the tray base and is essentially in the shape of a rectangular plate. Thus, fins and flat pins differ, among other things, in that they are completely solid and not hollow inside. In other words, a fin consists of solid material, whereas a flat pin is at least partially hollow inside. A fin or flat pin can extend essentially perpendicular to the tray base in the direction of a surface defined by the upper edges of the side walls that form the tray frame. The upper edge of the side wall is the edge located distal to the base wall.In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the cross-section of the fins or flat pinions tapers in the direction perpendicular to the bottom wall, preferably with a taper rate of up to 5°.

[0014] In one embodiment, the tray comprises a plurality of fins.

[0015] In another embodiment, the tray comprises a plurality of flat pins.

[0016] In another embodiment, the tray comprises a combination of a multitude of fins and flat pins.

[0017] The fins and flat quills are described in more detail below, although for the sake of simplicity only fins will be mentioned. However, it should be clear that the described features and designs apply equally to flat quills.

[0018] Each fin has a maximum height that is approximately 66% of the shoulder height of the bottle to be held, measured from the bottle base to the bottle shoulder. The shoulder height of a bottle is the height at which the bottle's circumference begins to taper towards the neck. Generally, each fin can have a height of approximately 10 mm to approximately 90 mm. In a preferred embodiment, each fin can have a height of approximately 20 mm to approximately 60 mm, more preferably approximately 30 mm to approximately 50 mm, and more preferably approximately 35 mm to approximately 45 mm. In a particularly preferred embodiment, each fin has a height of approximately 40 mm.

[0019] As mentioned above, the tray can include at least two fins positioned at right angles to each other; that is, the tray includes at least one fin in the transverse direction, hereinafter referred to as the "transverse fin," and at least one fin in the longitudinal direction, hereinafter referred to as the "longitudinal fin." Starting from a tray with different side lengths, that is, the tray includes a first pair of side walls facing each other and a second pair of side walls facing each other, the first pair being longer than the second pair, transverse fins thus run parallel to the broad side and end face of the tray, respectively, while longitudinal fins run parallel to the long side of the tray. Accordingly, each bottle, once placed in a bottle holder, is surrounded by at least one transverse fin and at least one longitudinal fin.

[0020] To accommodate the design of the container carrier (multipacks) intended for use with the tray, the transverse fins and the longitudinal fins can have different heights. Accordingly, the transverse fins can have a maximum height that corresponds to approximately 70% to approximately 90%, preferably approximately 80% to approximately 85%, of the maximum height of the longitudinal fins.

[0021] Each fin generally has a length of about 5 mm to about 50 mm, preferably about 10 mm to about 50 mm, and more preferably about 20 mm to 45 mm. In a particularly preferred embodiment, each fin has a length of about 35 mm to about 45 mm. In a most preferred embodiment, each fin has a length of about 40 mm. The fins can all be of the same length. It is also possible for the tray to include fins of different lengths. Here, "length" refers to the extent of the fins in their longitudinal direction, perpendicular to the height direction and the thickness direction, and in the same plane as the thickness direction.

[0022] Each fin generally has a thickness of approximately 0.5 mm to approximately 10 mm. In a preferred embodiment, each fin has a thickness of approximately 0.5 mm to approximately 5 mm. In a particularly preferred embodiment, each fin has a thickness of approximately 1 mm to 3 mm. Thickness here refers to the extent of the fin in its thickness direction, perpendicular to the vertical and longitudinal directions and in the same plane as the longitudinal direction. Each fin is preferably solid, meaning that the surface of the fin wall has no through holes or recesses.

[0023] To increase stability, the fins can have one or more, preferably two, stabilizing ribs on one or both sides of the base. These stabilizing ribs can taper conically from the tray base in the direction of the fins' height, thus having a shape that narrows towards the top. This conical taper prevents, among other things, any damp body or back label from sticking to the stabilizing ribs and / or slipping on the bottle when a freshly filled bottle is inserted. The height of the stabilizing ribs can vary, but they are generally approximately half to three-quarters the height of the fins. Each stabilizing rib can have a depth of approximately 1 mm to 3 mm, preferably approximately 2.5 mm, extending from the base.

[0024] Furthermore, at least one fin can have projections extending from one or both of its base body's lateral edges. These projections can extend from the base body on both sides of the fin. The projections serve to contact an outer surface of a bottle being supported and also prevent two bottles inserted into adjacent bottle holders from tipping towards each other. Advantageously, the base body, together with the projections on each side, forms a T-structure or T-shape in cross-section. Overall, such a fin has either a so-called single-T shape or a so-called double-T shape in cross-section. In a preferred embodiment, the projections arranged at one end of the single- or double-T shape, i.e., the short parts of the "T", can be curved inwards on both sides of the base body.This prevents or at least reduces the risk of the fins becoming wedged in a corresponding recess of the container carrier when it is placed on the tray. The tray according to the invention can have at least one double-T fin as well as at least one single-T fin, as described above.

[0025] Each projection, extending from the base body, can have a length of approximately 1 mm to approximately 5 mm, preferably approximately 2.5 to 5 mm, the length ultimately determined by the bottle radius of the bottle to be received in the bottle holder. Depending on the application, the projections can have the same or different lengths. For example, a fin can have projections of length X on one side and projections of length Y on the other side, where lengths X and Y can differ. For instance, a fin can have projections of approximately 5 mm in length on one side and projections of 2.5 mm in length on the other. Furthermore, each projection can be rounded at its distal end, resulting in a rounded contact surface with the bottle being supported.

[0026] According to the invention, transverse fins can be designed such that they have a longitudinal projection at their base on one side and another longitudinal projection at their upper end on the other side. Thus, opposing transverse fins, which together form a bottle receptacle, create a wedge-like structure that allows the bottle to be centered. Such projections generally have a thickness of approximately 1 mm to approximately 1.3 mm and a height of approximately 2 mm to approximately 5 mm.

[0027] According to the invention, the fins and / or flat pins are arranged in the tray such that they are each positioned at the point of tangency between two bottles when these are inserted into two adjacent bottle holders. A fin or flat pin is positioned between two adjacent bottle positions, such that the center point of the fin or flat pin lies at the point of tangency between two bottles. This distinguishes the positioning of the fins or flat pins in the tray of the invention from a positioning in which a fin or flat pin is located at the center point between four adjacent bottle holders.

[0028] According to the invention, the tray is designed such that each bottle, when placed in the tray, is surrounded by at least two fins, or by at least two flat pins, or by at least one fin and at least one flat pin. Depending on the number of bottle holders in the tray and the corresponding grid arrangement of the fins, a bottle, when placed in the tray, may be surrounded by two, three, or four fins. Thus, each bottle holder comprises at least two fins. Likewise, depending on the number of bottle holders in the tray and the corresponding grid arrangement of the flat pins, a bottle, when placed in the tray, may be surrounded by two, three, or four flat pins.

[0029] A tray according to the invention can have a variety of different structures with bottle holders in a desired grid, the number of which is determined primarily by the desired number of bottles to be held, i.e., the number of bottle holders. Preferably, the tray according to the invention has at least 20 bottle holders. In one embodiment, the tray according to the invention has at least 24 bottle holders. In another embodiment, the tray according to the invention has at least 40 bottle holders. In another embodiment, the tray according to the invention has at least 48 bottle holders. In yet another embodiment, the tray according to the invention has at least 54 bottle holders.

[0030] Preferably, the tray of the invention is designed to accommodate a large number of 0.5-liter bottles or 0.33-liter bottles.

[0031] InIn a preferred embodiment, the tray according to the invention has at least 20 bottle holders for holding 0.5-liter bottles.

[0032] In In a preferred embodiment, the tray according to the invention has at least 40 bottle holders for holding 0.5-liter bottles.

[0033] In In another embodiment, the tray according to the invention has at least 24 bottle holders for holding 0.33-liter bottles.

[0034] In In a preferred embodiment, the tray according to the invention has at least 48 bottle holders for holding 0.33-liter bottles.

[0035] In In another preferred embodiment, the tray according to the invention has at least 54 bottle holders for holding 0.33-liter bottles.

[0036] InIn one embodiment, the tray has a structure with bottle holders arranged in a 4 x 6 grid, preferably with six of these bottle holders arranged in a 2 x 3 grid to accommodate a container carrier holding six of these bottles. Such a structure is advantageously used when the tray is designed for 24 x 0.33-liter bottles.

[0037] In In another embodiment, the tray has a structure with bottle holders arranged in a 4 x 5 grid. Such a structure is advantageously used when the tray is designed for 20 x 0.5-liter bottles.

[0038] In In a preferred embodiment, the tray has a structure with bottle holders arranged in an 8 x 6 grid. Such a structure is advantageously used when the tray is designed for 48 x 0.33-liter bottles.

[0039] In In another preferred embodiment, the tray has a structure with bottle holders arranged in a 9 x 6 grid. Such a structure is advantageously used when the tray is designed for 54 x 0.33-liter bottles.

[0040] In a preferred embodiment, the tray has a structure with bottle holders arranged in an 8 x 5 grid. Such a structure is advantageously used when the tray is designed for 40 x 0.5-liter bottles.

[0041] According to the invention, a tray with bottle holders in an 8 x 6 grid can also be designed as a double structure, which is divided into two substructures, each having bottle holders in a 4 x 6 grid. Likewise, according to the invention, a tray with bottle holders in an 8 x 5 grid can also be designed as a double structure, which is divided into two substructures, each having bottle holders in a 4 x 5 grid.

[0042] The respective substructures are connected to each other on one side, preferably on one of their longitudinal sides, by a connecting bridge. This connecting bridge also forms an inner side wall of each substructure on that side. The connecting bridge can be solid or, to save material and weight, hollow. In the latter case, the cavity can advantageously contain one or more, e.g., two, three, four, five, or six, stabilizing webs, which provide further stability to the double structure. Such a stabilizing web can be single-walled or double-walled.

[0043] The tray of the present invention can have various dimensions, which depend essentially on the desired size and number of bottles to be accommodated. For example, a tray designed for 20 x 0.5-liter bottles or for 24 x 0.33-liter bottles can have a length of approximately 400 mm and a width of approximately 300 mm, which corresponds approximately to the dimensions of standard bottle crates. For a tray with bottle holders for 40 x 0.5-liter bottles or for 48 x 0.33-liter bottles, the dimensions are correspondingly larger, with the longitudinal and transverse dimensions being reversed due to the double structure. Thus, a tray, particularly one designed to hold 40 x 0.5-liter bottles or 48 x 0.33-liter bottles and featuring a double structure, can, for example, have a length of approximately 600 mm and a width of approximately 400 mm.For comparison, a tray designed to hold 54 x 0.33 liter bottles might, for example, have a length of approximately 600 mm and a width of approximately 400 mm.

[0044] Compared to a standard bottle crate, which typically has a sidewall height of approximately 280 mm to 320 mm, a tray has significantly lower sidewalls. The sidewalls of a tray according to the invention, for example, have a height of approximately 40 mm to 100 mm, preferably approximately 50 mm to 70 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the sidewalls of the tray have a height of approximately 70 mm. In a particularly preferred embodiment, the sidewalls of the tray have a height of approximately 60 mm. These height measurements refer to the height of the tray's sidewalls measured from the underside of the tray base and do not include the height of any support or guide elements that may be located on the underside of the tray base.

[0045] The tray of the present invention, viewed from the outside, has a first pair of opposing side walls and a second pair of opposing side walls, the first pair being longer than the second pair. The plan view of the tray is thus preferably rectangular. This does not include any additional internal side walls resulting from a double structure as described above.

[0046] To increase the stability of the frame, the tray of the invention can advantageously have one or more, for example two, partition walls that run parallel to the longitudinal side of the frame and connect the opposite side walls of the tray. Alternatively, or additionally, the tray can also have one or more, for example two, partition walls that run parallel to the broad or end side of the frame and connect the opposite side walls of the tray. If the tray has only one partition wall in the longitudinal and / or transverse direction, such a partition wall lies on a central axis of the frame. If there is more than one partition wall in the longitudinal or transverse direction, the partition walls are arranged such that a (sub)structure with bottle holders in a grid of at least 2 x 2 fields, preferably at least 2 x 3 fields, is also possible. The partition wall orThe partition walls can be single-walled or double-walled; preferably, they are single-walled and, like the fins, made of solid material. Furthermore, the partition wall(s) can have a height and / or thickness that corresponds to that of the fins.

[0047] According to a preferred embodiment, the interior of the tray comprises two longitudinal partitions arranged parallel to the longitudinal side walls and connecting the opposing transverse side walls, and two transverse partitions arranged parallel to the transverse side walls and connecting the opposing longitudinal side walls. The longitudinal and transverse partitions, together with the longitudinal and transverse side walls, form a grid of nine substructures or segments within the tray for holding bottles and / or bottle bundles. Each segment is designed to hold up to six bottles, either individually or as bundles of several bottles.

[0048] According to another preferred embodiment, the tray according to the invention has a double structure as described above, as well as an internal partition arranged longitudinally on the central axis of the tray, which is interrupted by the connecting bridge, and two partitions arranged transversely. According to this embodiment, each substructure of the double structure of the tray has two intersecting partitions, thereby forming a grid of four substructures or segments for holding bottles and / or bottle bundles. Each segment is designed to hold up to six bottles, either as individual bottles or as bundles of several such bottles.

[0049] Advantageously, the longitudinal and transverse partition walls can have a recess extending vertically from the tray base at their intersection point. The height of the recess is freely selectable, provided there is sufficient connection between the intersecting partition walls. As a rule, the recess should be between 1 / 5 and 4 / 5 of the height of the partition walls from the base. Furthermore, the tray base can have an opening, such as a square or circular opening (e.g., a circular opening with a diameter of approximately 20 mm to 40 mm), in the area corresponding to the intersection point of two partition walls. Since the demolding temperature is between 45 and 110°C, warping of the product can generally occur. This is counteracted by tool steel pins or so-called spark cones used in the tray's manufacture. The geometry of the tool steel pins or...Spark cones can take on any shape. Cylinders (towers / beams), cuboids, primes, pyramids, etc., can also be used.

[0050] The openings, together with the recesses in the partition walls, allow for the insertion of tool-like steel pins or spark plugs during tray manufacturing to improve material cooling at these points and thus prevent wall warping. Furthermore, the openings relieve stresses in the finished product, and especially in the partition walls.

[0051] The longitudinally arranged partition walls and / or the transversely arranged partition walls can also have several, such as two, three, or four, preferably three, bracing elements, i.e., vertically running, strip-shaped material taperings, which also contribute to stress relief in the finished product. These bracing elements can have a width of approximately 5 mm to approximately 15 mm, such as 10 mm.

[0052] To further ensure that the trays are stacked securely, the longitudinally and transversely arranged partitions can advantageously have a lower height relative to the top of the side walls, so that, as described in detail below, support or guide elements of another tray, preferably a tray of the same design, can be incorporated into the interior of the receiving tray when stacked. If the receiving tray has a step on the top of each of two opposing side walls, directed into the interior of the tray as described below, then the longitudinally and transversely arranged partitions have a height such that the top edge of the partitions is flush with the bottom edge of the step.Generally, the partition walls can have a height relative to the top of the side walls that is approximately 60% to approximately 90% of the height of the side walls. In one embodiment, the partition walls have a height of approximately 50 mm.

[0053] The base of the tray is preferably designed as a network of base struts, so that the tray base has high stability at a comparatively low weight.

[0054] The base of the tray can have a plate structure, preferably square, at the center of each bottle holder, the outer dimensions of which are defined by four base supports. In one embodiment, the plate structure has an opening at its center, preferably a round opening, which allows any (rinsing) water running down from a bottle in the bottle holder to drain away more easily. In another embodiment, instead of a central opening, the plate structure has four openings, preferably semicircular openings, at the lateral edges at the level of its central axes.

[0055] The base of the tray can also feature an open, square structure at the center of each bottle holder, the outer dimensions of which are defined by four base supports. Such an open, square structure is characterized in particular by two crossed reinforcing supports, forming a "central cross structure." Compared to a plate structure with a central opening, this "central cross structure" has the advantage, besides its obvious visual appeal, that any (rinsing) water running down from a bottle in the bottle holder can drain off to the sides, preventing water from collecting on the crown cap of a bottle in a tray below the bottle holder when at least two trays filled with bottles are stacked on top of each other.Furthermore, the segmented bottle holder increases the pressure on the crown cap at the bottle neck, but not on the lateral serrations (at the level of the cork), thus supporting and promoting a secure seal during transport. This prevents pressure from being applied to the center of the cork, which would cause the crown cap to come loose. Preventing the crown cap from opening uncontrollably on the bottle is essential for hygiene and to ensure the preservation of the product inside. To increase the contact area for a bottle placed in a tray below the bottle holder when at least two trays filled with bottles are stacked on top of each other, the "central cross structure" can have a bottle head support at its base, which also has a cross-like structure.The bottle head support protrudes approximately 1 mm to 4 mm into the respective openings of the "central cross structure" from the reinforcing struts.

[0056] As already mentioned, the tray can have at least one support or guide element (also called a "stacking foot") on its underside, such as a support or guide frame, which typically has a height of approximately 3 mm to approximately 30 mm, preferably approximately 5 mm to approximately 15 mm. The thickness of the support or guide element can be variable, but is preferably in the range of approximately 3 mm to approximately 30 mm, and particularly preferably in the range of approximately 5 mm to approximately 15 mm. This support or guide element is recessed relative to the side walls of the tray, so that the tray can be inserted into another, preferably identical, tray that has not contained any bottles (i.e., is empty). This allows several empty trays to be stored and / or transported in a space-saving manner.Furthermore, a tray, particularly a double-structured tray as described above, can have at least two support or guide elements on its underside, with each support or guide element being assigned to one of the two substructures of the double structure, thus enabling the tray to be inserted into another tray of the same design. It is also conceivable that, depending on its dimensions and structure, the tray can be inserted into one or more, preferably one, two, three, or four (arranged side by side), commercially available bottle crates. As an alternative to a support or guide frame, the support or guide element can also be implemented only in certain areas, e.g., in the corner region.

[0057] To accommodate another tray, preferably a tray of the same design, a tray according to the invention can have a step (also called a "stacking foot edge") on the upper side of two opposing side walls, directed towards the interior of the tray. The step serves, among other things, as a counterpart to the support or guide element of the tray to be accommodated and ensures that the trays are stacked securely. Furthermore, depending on the dimensions of the tray, the step also allows for the accommodation of one or more commercially available bottle crates, such as one or two, in particular bottle crates for 20 x 0.5-liter bottles or 24 x 0.33-liter bottles, which usually have a base plate recessed relative to their side walls.The stepped design also allows, depending on the dimensions of the tray, the inclusion of one or more, such as four, bottle crates for 11 x 0.5-liter bottles or 12 x 0.33-liter bottles, which typically have a length of about 300 mm and a width of about 200 mm, with these crates preferably being inserted into the tray in a horizontal format.

[0058] Preferably, a step is arranged on the upper side of each of the longitudinally oriented side walls of the tray. In the case of a tray with a double structure and connecting bridge, a step can be arranged on the upper side of the side walls located on the broad side.

[0059] The steps can be arranged on the end walls of the tray and on each side of the connecting bridge, extending into the interior of the tray. Alternatively, a step can be arranged on the upper surface of the side walls running lengthwise along the tray. In this case, the step is interrupted by the connecting bridge. Thus, both substructures have at least two steps.

[0060] The height and depth of the steps can be freely selected, although they are generally based on the height and width, respectively, of the support or guide element of an identical tray. For example, the steps can have a height in the range of approximately 3 mm to approximately 30 mm, preferably approximately 5 mm to approximately 15 mm. The steps can also have a depth in the range of approximately 3 mm to approximately 30 mm, particularly preferably in the range of approximately 5 mm to approximately 15 mm.

[0061] When stacking one tray with another or a bottle crate, the main load transfer should occur primarily via the upper edge of the side walls and, if present, via the connecting bridge. However, a stepped design can provide additional support for load transfer under heavy loads, especially when the trays and / or bottle crates are fully loaded.

[0062] To accommodate another tray, preferably a tray of the same design, the side walls of a tray according to the invention can, if necessary or desired, be bent outwards by approximately 90° at the top and bottom edges. These projections serve as a wider support surface when stacking two or more trays, preferably trays of the same design, and simultaneously ensure greater stability of the tray.

[0063] To ensure the safe transport and / or storage of trays filled with bottles according to the invention, a tray can have a plurality of stabilizing elements extending along the underside of the tray base. An arrangement of at least two stabilizing elements, together with at least one further stabilizing element, and / or a support or guide element, in particular a support or guide frame, forms a receptacle for the bottle neck (with or without a cap) of a bottle located below, which, when several trays are stacked on top of each other, is located in the tray directly below the tray. The dimensions of the stabilizing element are freely selectable, provided they allow for the receptacle of a bottle neck (with or without a cap).For example, a stabilizing element can have a height in the range of about 5 mm to about 30 mm, preferably in the range of 5 mm to about 25 mm, particularly preferably in the range of about 5 to about 15 mm, such as about 10 mm, a width of about 5 mm to about 30 mm, preferably in the range of about 5 mm to about 25 mm, particularly preferably in the range of about 5 mm to about 15 mm, and can have a thickness / depth of about 0.5 mm to about 10 mm, preferably 1 mm to 8 mm, particularly preferably from about 2 mm to about 5 mm.

[0064] According to a preferred embodiment, the stabilizing elements are freestanding.

[0065] In another preferred embodiment, the stabilizing elements forming a receptacle for a bottle head are laterally connected to one another. In the case of four such connected stabilizing elements, an octagonal structure results. At the edge and corner regions, the stabilizing elements 39 forming a receptacle for a bottle head can again be laterally connected to a support or guide element.

[0066] Alternatively, instead of an arrangement of stabilizing elements, a stabilizing ring can be used to hold a bottle head (with or without a cap), which can also have a semi-circular shape at the edges and corners. The diameter of a stabilizing ring, measured from its inner surface, is usually between approximately 15 mm and 35 mm.

[0067] Alternatively, the tray can also have a plurality of circular or semicircular recesses on its underside, which are incorporated into the underside and each serve to receive a bottle or its bottle head (with or without a cap) underneath. Such a recess preferably extends to a depth of 0.5 mm to 3 mm into the underside of the tray base.

[0068] According to another advantageous embodiment, the underside of a tray according to the invention can have two stabilizing strips extending longitudinally along the frame, which can also be referred to as stabilizing ribs, as well as two edge strips extending parallel to the stabilizing strips in the longitudinal direction of the tray. The stabilizing strips and the edge strips project away from the interior of the tray, whereby each edge strip, together with the stabilizing strip directly opposite it, or both stabilizing strips together, form a structure extending longitudinally along the tray for receiving bottle necks. Ideally, the stabilizing strips are arranged below longitudinal partitions (longitudinal partitions) extending in the interior of the tray.Such a design of the underside is therefore preferably considered in an embodiment as described above, in which the interior of the tray has two intermediate walls arranged longitudinally along the tray, running parallel to the longitudinal side walls and connecting the opposing transverse side walls. The interaction of the longitudinally extending stabilizing strips with the longitudinally extending intermediate walls above them creates a torsionally rigid product characterized by high stability. In particular, the use of stabilizing strips on the underside of the base and the intermediate walls in the interior, as described in the invention, increases torsional rigidity under any load (this includes weather conditions, temperature differences, washing systems, and conveyor belt transport; here, filling systems and the like).

[0069] The stabilizing strips generally have a width of approximately 40 mm to approximately 70 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the stabilizing strips have a width of approximately 50 mm to approximately 70 mm, and particularly preferably approximately 60 mm to approximately 70 mm. The edge strips generally have a width of approximately 15 mm to approximately 35 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the edge strips have a width of approximately 20 mm to approximately 30 mm, and particularly preferably approximately 22 mm to approximately 26 mm, such as approximately 24 mm. These width specifications refer to the absolute width of the stabilizing strips and edge strips and disregard any recesses, as described below. Ultimately, the widths are selected such that the structures formed by the stabilizing strips and edge strips on the underside of the tray do not impinge on the bottle necks of bottles or...Bottle containers arranged in a tray below can be accommodated when the trays are stacked.

[0070] Furthermore, the stabilizing strips and edge strips generally have a height of approximately 5 mm to approximately 20 mm. In a preferred embodiment, the stabilizing strips and edge strips have a height of approximately 5 mm to approximately 15 mm, and particularly preferably, approximately 8 mm to approximately 12 mm, such as approximately 10 mm. To ensure a stable base and a uniform contact surface, the stabilizing strips and edge strips are generally of the same height.

[0071] To accommodate bottle necks, especially those fitted with a closure such as a crown cap, the rim strips and stabilizing strips can advantageously have semicircular recesses on their side(s) facing the structure designed to hold the bottle necks. Such a recess protects the closure, such as a crown cap, from lateral pressure that could cause the bottle to burst.

[0072] The edge strips and stabilizing strips can be connected to each other on their respective broad or short sides via a side wall that closes off the structure for holding bottle necks. Together, these side walls and the edge strips form a frame on the underside of the base.

[0073] As described above, the base of the tray is preferably designed as a network of base struts, so that the tray base has high stability at a comparatively low weight. In a preferred embodiment, the base of the tray has a solid surface at the positions that come into contact with the bottle necks of bottles below, optionally provided with holes for water drainage.

[0074] The design of the underside of the base described above protects the crown cap of a single bottle or a group of bottles from lateral pressure that could cause it to burst. In particular, the solid surface, where present, ensures optimal load distribution over the positions of the underlying bottle necks / crown caps. The load is thus distributed evenly across the bottle neck (empty bottle) and crown cap (full bottle). This reduces breakage in both empty and full bottles. Furthermore, it prevents the unintentional opening of the CO2-enriched bottle in full bottles.

[0075] If a recess extending vertically from the tray base is provided at the intersection of longitudinal and transverse partition walls, the stabilizing strips may each have an opening, preferably a circular opening, e.g., with a diameter of approximately 20 mm to 40 mm, in the area corresponding to the intersection of two partition walls. As mentioned above, such openings, together with the recesses in the partition walls, allow tool steel pins or spark plugs to be inserted during tray manufacturing to improve material cooling at these points and thus prevent warping of the walls. Furthermore, the openings relieve stresses in the finished product, and particularly in the partition walls.

[0076] The tray can further feature strapping ribs on its outer wall, which protect the tray stacked with full goods, possibly on floor rollers, once strapping has been applied. A recess can also be incorporated into the upper surface of the tray's perimeter wall, in the area of ​​the strapping ribs, to guide the strapping of the tray placed on top, whether empty or stacked in a tray tower. The strapping ribs and, optionally, the recesses on the upper surface of the wall are preferably arranged on the longitudinal side walls, and particularly at the level of the transverse partitions. This arrangement allows the strapping to be guided transversely to the tray, even when full, as the fastening straps can be routed over the transverse partition and between bottles in the end bottle holders of adjacent segments.Alternatively or additionally, strapping ribs can be arranged at the level of the connecting bridge, if present. This arrangement also allows for strapping to run transversely to the tray, even when the product is full, as the fastening straps can be guided over the connecting bridge and between the two substructures. Furthermore, the strapping ribs stabilize the side walls and protect them from deformation during strapping.

[0077] The width of the strapping ribs generally depends on the type of fastening tape used, but is typically between 15 mm and 40 mm, or between 20 mm and 30 mm. Furthermore, the recesses on the outward-facing side may have a knurled texture to ensure better grip and hold of the fastening tape.

[0078] Horizontal ribs may also be incorporated in the corner areas of the tray, facilitating the picking and packing of the trays in an automated process, on a conveyor belt, and / or in a washing system. A vertical rib or web may also be incorporated to prevent two or more trays from jamming together.

[0079] The tray can be manufactured as a single injection-molded part. Alternatively, the tray can also be produced using a thermoforming process.

[0080] Preferably the material of the tray is a plastic, wherein the plastic is preferably selected from high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and / or polypropylene (PP).

[0081] According to the invention, a floor roller is also provided, which is preferably suitable for holding a tray of the invention. However, the floor roller of the invention can also be configured such that it can hold one or more, preferably one, two, three or four, bottle crates, such as commercially available bottle crates.

[0082] The floor roller comprises a base plate with an upper surface for receiving at least one tray of the invention and / or at least one, preferably two or four, commercially available bottle crates. The dimensions of the base plate are freely selectable, provided they allow for the receipt of at least one tray or at least one commercially available bottle crate. Advantageously, the outer dimensions of the floor roller correspond to the outer dimensions of the tray so that no gaps arise during loading.

[0083] The upper side of the base plate preferably includes a support or securing structure configured in such a way that a tray of the invention or a commercially available bottle crate can be accommodated and does not slip during transport.

[0084] The support or securing structure can include, among other things, a frame that surrounds the outer edge of the base plate and defines an interior space suitable for accommodating a support or guide element of the tray and / or a recessed base plate of a standard bottle crate. The frame thus provides lateral support for the tray or bottle crate when it is placed on the floor roller. The support or guide element of the tray or the recessed base plate of the bottle crate is used to fix it to the floor roller. When a tray and / or bottle crate is stacked on the floor roller, the load transfer should primarily occur via the upper side of the frame. The height of the frame can be variable, but is preferably in the range of approximately 3 mm to approximately 30 mm, and particularly preferably in the range of approximately 5 mm to approximately 15 mm.The thickness / depth of the frame can be variable, but is preferably in the range of about 3 mm to about 15 mm, and particularly preferably in the range of about 5 mm to about 10 mm.

[0085] Alternatively, the securing structure can include support or securing corners, with one support or securing corner arranged at each corner of the base plate. Each support or securing corner preferably has a height in the range of about 3 mm to about 30 mm, more preferably in the range of about 5 mm to about 15 mm, and extends about 30 mm to about 100 mm in the transverse and longitudinal directions of the base plate. Like the frame, the support or securing corners, working together, provide lateral support for the tray or bottle crate when it is placed on the base roller. The load transfer when stacking a tray and / or a bottle crate in the base roller should occur essentially via the upper side of the support or securing corners.

[0086] Furthermore, the support or securing structure can include an inner support or stabilizing plate that is recessed relative to the edge of the base plate. Advantageously, the support or stabilizing plate, together with the frame or securing corner as described above, stabilizes an inserted tray or bottle crate.

[0087] The final configuration of the base plate depends on the number and design of the trays or bottle crates to be accommodated. For example, to accommodate a double-structured tray, the base plate can include a crossbar on a central axis of the frame described above, dividing the frame into two halves. This crossbar not only increases the stability of the base plate but also acts as an additional securing element. Advantageously, this configuration also allows for the accommodation of two standard bottle crates.

[0088] Overall, the floor roller according to the invention allows the formation of a modular system with one or more trays and / or one or more bottle crates.

[0089] The base plate may also have one or more access holes, which are preferably provided in the support or stabilizing plate, if present.

[0090] Furthermore, the base plate can have a recess in each of its corners. Together, these four recesses form an anti-slip mechanism to accommodate the casters of another floor roller. This allows two or more floor rollers to be stacked securely on top of each other.

[0091] The base plate can be manufactured as a single injection-molded part. Alternatively, the base plate can also be produced using a deep-drawing process.

[0092] Preferably, the base plate is made of a plastic, preferably high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and / or polypropylene (PP). The same applies to the base plate of the floor roller described above.

[0093] The floor roller further comprises a chassis on the underside of the base plate, comprising four wheels, with one wheel being mounted in each corner of the underside of the base plate. Preferably, at least two of the wheels are swivel casters.

[0094] According to the invention, a system for the storage and / or transport of bottles is also provided.

[0095] In one embodiment, the system comprises at least one tray according to the present invention and a floor roller. The floor roller is preferably a floor roller according to the present invention as described above.

[0096] In another embodiment, the system comprises a floor roller of the present invention and one or more trays of the present invention and / or one or more bottle crates, such as commercially available bottle crates.

[0097] In one particular embodiment, the system comprises a floor roller according to the present invention and at least one tray according to the present invention. In another particular embodiment, the system comprises a floor roller according to the present invention and at least one bottle crate, such as a commercially available bottle crate. In yet another particular embodiment, the system comprises a floor roller according to the present invention and at least one tray according to the present invention and at least one bottle crate, such as a commercially available bottle crate.

[0098] As used here and possibly in the attached claims, the singular forms "ein" / "eine" / "einer" and "der" / "die" / "das" can also include their plurals unless the context clearly indicates otherwise. Similarly, the words "umfassen" (comprise), "haltten" (contain), and "aufweisen" (consist of) are to be understood as both "exclusively" and "not exclusively," i.e., in the sense of "including, but not limited to...". The terms "mehrere" (several), "Vielfaches" (multiple), or "Vielzahl" (multiple) usually refer to two or more, i.e., 2 or >2, including further integer multiples of 1, where the terms "einn" (single) or "allein" (alone) refer to one (1), i.e., "=1". Furthermore, the expression "mindestens eins" (at least one) or "wenigstens eins" (at least one) is to be understood as one or more, i.e., 1 or >1, also with integer multiples.Furthermore, when the words "herein", "above", "before" and "below" or "following" and words with similar meanings are used in this description, they should refer to this description as a whole and not to specific parts of the description.

[0099] The dimensions given in this description are to be understood as including standard tolerances. For the dimensions of the box, deviations from the nominal dimensions of +0.5% and -1.0% are considered within the permissible tolerance. For dimensions relating to a bottle, deviations of up to + / - 1.3 mm in diameter and + / - 1.5 mm in height are considered within the permissible tolerance.

[0100] The description of specific embodiments in this document is not intended to be exhaustive, nor is the disclosure given herein intended to be limited to the exact form disclosed. While the specific embodiments and examples described herein serve to illustrate the disclosure, various equivalent modifications are possible within the scope of protection of the disclosure, as would be apparent to a person skilled in the art in the present technical field. Specific technical elements of described embodiments may be combined with or replaced by technical elements in other embodiments. In the drawings, identical reference numerals denote identical elements to avoid repetition, and parts that a person skilled in the art can implement without special knowledge may be omitted for the sake of clarity.While advantages associated with certain embodiments of the disclosure are described in connection with those embodiments, other embodiments may also have these advantages.

[0101] The following embodiments are intended to illustrate various possible modifications of the present invention. As such, all specific technical details, as also discussed below, are not to be interpreted as limitations on the scope of the present invention. It is obvious to the person skilled in the art that various modifications and alterations can be made without deviating from the scope of protection of the present application as defined by the appended claims. Further aspects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description of the preferred embodiments shown in the figures. It is self-evident, however, that the aspects presented and highlighted in the general description and in the following exemplary embodiments can be combined with one another.Such combinations can vary depending on the specific requirements and applications of the invention and are to be considered as falling within the scope of disclosure of the present application. The invention is therefore not limited to the embodiments explicitly described herein, but also encompasses all conceivable combinations and modifications of the disclosed aspects and their specific features. Advantages of the invention

[0102] The proposed tray allows for the storage of both individual bottles and multipacks containing several bottles, all within the same tray. This provides a high degree of flexibility in the composition of the tray contents, while still requiring only a single tray type.

[0103] Furthermore, the design of the tray ensures that the bottles placed in the tray, whether additionally stabilized by a multipack or not, whether empty or filled, do not or hardly collide with each other, thus reducing the likelihood of noise and glass breakage.

[0104] Furthermore, the tray, through the use and arrangement of fins and / or flat pins according to the invention, offers a defined space for individual bottles, thereby enabling simple centering of the bottles, independent of the involvement of a second tray.

[0105] Furthermore, the use and arrangement of fins and / or flat pins according to the invention ensures increased protection and stability of the inserted bottles. In particular, when two trays are stacked, the fins and / or flat pins center and protect the bottles, whether empty or full. Moreover, the inventive design of the underside of the tray, especially through the use of the stabilizing elements described herein, allows for further centering and stabilization of the bottles located in the tray directly below when several trays are stacked on top of each other.Overall, the interaction of the inventive use and arrangement of fins and / or flat pins in the interior with the inventive design of the underside of the base of a tray according to the invention leads to increased stabilization of inserted bottles, whether empty or full, when stacking two trays, and accordingly to transport in any type of distribution route that is secured against bottle breakage and low in noise.

[0106] The tray according to the invention can also be used as a modular system, both with other trays and with commercially available bottle crates. The system offers the user a wide range of options for storing and / or transporting bottles, since a large number of trays and / or bottle crates can be used modularly together. Brief description of the characters

[0107] Exemplary embodiments of the invention are shown in the drawings and explained in more detail in the following description. They show: Figure 1 is a perspective view of a tray according to the invention, taken obliquely from above. Figure 2 is a perspective view of another tray according to the invention, taken obliquely from above. Figure 3 is a perspective view of a tray according to the invention, taken obliquely from below. Figure 4 is a perspective view of another tray according to the invention, taken obliquely from above. Figure 5 is a perspective view of another tray according to the invention, taken obliquely from below. Figure 6 is a perspective view of another tray according to the invention, taken obliquely from above. Figure 7 is a perspective view of another tray according to the invention, taken obliquely from below. Figure 8 is a perspective view of another tray according to the invention, taken obliquely from above. Figure 9 is a perspective view of a tray according to the invention, taken obliquely from below. Figures 10A and 10B Each is an enlarged section of a tray according to the invention, viewed from above or from below. Figure 11 is a perspective view of another tray according to the invention, taken obliquely from above. Figure 12 is a perspective view of a tray according to the invention, taken obliquely from below. Figure 13 is a perspective view of a tray according to the invention, taken obliquely from below. Figure 14 is a perspective view of a floor roller according to the invention, taken obliquely from above. Embodiments of the invention

[0108] In the following description of exemplary embodiments of the invention, identical elements are designated by the same reference numerals, and repeated descriptions of these elements are omitted in individual cases. The figures represent the subject matter of the invention only schematically.

[0109] Figure 1 is a perspective view of a tray 10 according to the invention, viewed obliquely from above. Figure 1Figure 1 shows the tray 10 according to the invention for holding bottles and / or multipacks. The tray 10 has a frame 12 with side walls 14 and a base 16. A plurality of freestanding fins 20 can be seen in the interior of the tray 10. The frame 12 and the fins 20 form a structure with bottle holders 11 in a grid. The fins 20 are arranged in the interior of the tray 10 such that each pair of fins 20 is at right angles to each other. Furthermore, it can be seen that the fins are arranged at the point of tangency between two bottles (when these are held in the tray). In particular, the tray in the example of the Figure 1 a double structure with connecting bridge 36. Steps 34 are visible, extending into the interior of the tray on the upper side of the opposing side walls on the broad side or end face of the tray, as well as on each side of the connecting bridge 36. The in Figure 1Tray 10 shown is set up to hold 48 bottles.

[0110] Figure 2 is a perspective view of a tray 10 according to the invention, viewed obliquely from above. Figure 2 Figure 1 shows the tray 10 according to the invention for holding bottles and / or multipacks. The tray 10 has a frame 12 with side walls 14 and a base 16. A plurality of freestanding fins 20 can be seen in the interior of the tray 10. The frame 12 and the fins 20 form a structure with bottle holders 11 in a grid. The fins 20 are arranged in the interior of the tray 10 such that each pair of fins 20 is at right angles to each other. Furthermore, it can be seen that the fins are arranged at the point of tangency between two bottles (when these are held in the tray). In particular, the tray in the example of the Figure 2a double structure with connecting bridge 36. Steps 34 are visible, extending into the interior of the tray on the upper side of the opposing side walls on the broad side or end face of the tray, as well as on each side of the connecting bridge 36. It is also evident that the tray in the example of the Figure 2 The tray comprises fins of different designs. Specifically, it includes fins 21 with a base body 30, on whose lateral edges projections 31a and 31b extend on both sides, forming a double-T shape, as well as fins 20 with a base body 30, on whose lateral edges no projections extend. The latter are arranged on the central axes of each substructure in both the longitudinal and transverse directions. The Figure 2 Tray 10 shown is set up to hold 48 bottles.

[0111] Figure 3is a perspective view of a tray 10 according to the invention, viewed obliquely from below. In particular, the Figure 3 the tray of the example from Figure 1 oblique view from below. A division into two substructures, including the cavity of the connecting bridge 36 with stabilizing webs 37, is again visible. Furthermore, a support or guide frame 38 on both substructures of the double structure is visible, as well as stabilizing elements 39, which are arranged such that at least two stabilizing elements 39, together with at least one further stabilizing element 39, and / or the support or guide frame 38, form a receptacle for a bottle head (with or without a cap) of a bottle that may be located below.

[0112] Figure 4 is a perspective view of another tray 10 according to the invention, taken obliquely from above. Figure 4Figure 1 shows the tray 10 according to the invention for holding bottles and / or multipacks. The tray 10 has a frame 12 with side walls 14 and a base 16. A plurality of freestanding fins 20 can be seen in the interior of the tray 10. The frame 12 and the fins 20 form a structure with bottle holders 11 in a grid. The fins 20 are arranged in the interior of the tray 10 such that each pair of fins 20 is at right angles to each other. Furthermore, it can be seen that the fins are arranged at the point of tangency between two bottles (when these are held in the tray). In particular, the tray in the example of the Figure 3 a double structure with connecting bridge 36. Steps 34 are visible, which extend into the interior of the tray from the upper side walls located longitudinally along the tray and are interrupted only by the connecting bridge 36. The in Figure 3Tray 10 shown is set up to hold 40 bottles.

[0113] Figure 5 is a perspective view of another tray 10 according to the invention, viewed obliquely from below. In particular, the Figure 5 the tray of the example from Figure 4 oblique view from below. A division into two substructures, including the cavity of the connecting bridge 36, is again visible. Furthermore, a support or guide frame 38 on both substructures of the double structure is visible, as well as stabilizing elements 39, which are arranged such that at least two stabilizing elements 39, together with at least one further stabilizing element 39, and / or the support or guide frame 39, form a receptacle for a bottle head (with or without a cap) of a bottle that may be located underneath.

[0114] Figure 6 is a perspective view of another tray 10 according to the invention, taken obliquely from above. Figure 6Figure 1 shows the tray 10 according to the invention for holding bottles and / or multipacks. The tray 10 has a frame 12 with side walls 14 and a base 16. A plurality of freestanding fins 20 can be seen in the interior of the tray 10. The frame 12 and the fins 20 form a structure with bottle holders 11 in a grid. The fins 20 are arranged in the interior of the tray 10 such that two fins 20 are at right angles to each other. It can also be seen that the fins are arranged at the point of tangency between two bottles (when these are held in the tray). Furthermore, the tray 10 has two longitudinally arranged partition walls 18 and two transversely arranged partition walls 18. Specifically, the partition walls 18 are arranged between the 3rd and 4th and the 6th and 7th transversely extending rows of bottle holders 11, thereby creating a plurality of substructures or...Segments with bottle holders 11 in a 2 x 3 grid form the tray. In this embodiment, the longitudinally arranged partition walls and the transversely arranged partition walls, together with the side walls, form a grid of nine substructures or segments for holding bottles and / or bottle containers. It can also be seen that the tray in the example of the... Figure 6 The tray includes fins of different designs. Specifically, it includes double-T fins (21) and single-T fins (22). The latter are arranged longitudinally along the central axis of each substructure such that the lateral edge has projections facing the center of the substructure. Figure 6 Tray 10 shown is set up to hold 54 bottles.

[0115] Figure 7 is a perspective view of another tray 10 according to the invention, viewed obliquely from below. In particular, the Figure 7the tray of the example from Figure 6 obliquely from below. A multitude of support or guide frames 38 and a multitude of stabilizing elements 39 can be seen, which are arranged such that at least two stabilizing elements 39, together with at least one further stabilizing element 39, and / or the support or guide frame 38, form a receptacle for a bottle head (with or without closure) of a bottle that may be located below.

[0116] Figure 8 is a perspective view of a tray 10 according to the invention, viewed obliquely from above. Figure 8Figure 1 shows the tray 10 according to the invention for holding bottles and / or multipacks. The tray 10 has a frame 12 with side walls 14 and a base 16. A plurality of freestanding fins 20 can be seen in the interior of the tray 10. The frame 12 and the fins 20 form a structure with bottle holders 11 in a grid. The fins 20 are arranged in the interior of the tray 10 such that each pair of fins 20 is at right angles to each other. Furthermore, it can be seen that the fins are arranged at the point of tangency between two bottles (when these are held in the tray). In particular, the tray in the example of the Figure 2a double structure with connecting bridge 36. Steps 34 are visible, extending into the interior of the tray on the upper side of the opposing side walls on the broad side or end face of the tray, as well as on each side of the connecting bridge 36. It is also evident that the tray in the example of the Figure 8 The tray comprises fins of different designs. It includes fins 21 with a base body 30, on whose lateral edges projections 31a and 31b extend on both sides, forming a double-T shape, as well as fins 20 with a base body 30, on whose lateral edges no projections extend. The latter are arranged on the central axes of each substructure in both longitudinal and transverse directions. A central cross 32 is visible in an open, square structure, which is formed at the center of each bottle holder 11. The Figure 8Tray 10 shown is set up to hold 48 bottles.

[0117] Figure 9 is a perspective view of a tray 10 according to the invention, viewed obliquely from below. In particular, the Figure 9 the tray of the example from Figure 8View obliquely from below. A division into two substructures is again visible, including the cavity of the connecting bridge 36 with stabilizing webs 37. A support or guide frame 38 is also visible on both substructures of the double structure. Bottle head supports 33b and stabilizing elements 39 are also visible. These are arranged such that at least two stabilizing elements 39, together with at least one further stabilizing element 39, and / or the support or guide frame 38, form a receptacle for a bottle head (with or without a cap) of a bottle that may be located underneath. The stabilizing elements 39 are positioned at the corners of the open, square structure that includes a bottle head support 33b.

[0118] Figure 10A is an enlarged section of a tray according to the invention from above. In particular, the Figure 10AAn embodiment of a bottle holder 11, which has an open, square structure at its center, the outer dimensions of which are defined by four base struts. The central cross 32, formed by two reinforcing struts 33a, is visible. Also visible is a bottle head support 33b located on the underside or base of the central cross, which likewise assumes a cross-like structure.

[0119] Figure 10B is an enlarged section of a tray according to the invention from below. In particular, the Figure 10B The underside of a bottle holder 11. Visible here is the bottle head support 33b and four stabilizing elements 39, which are arranged to form a holder for a bottle head (with or without a cap) of a bottle that may be placed underneath. The four stabilizing elements 39 are positioned at the corners of the open, square structure.

[0120] Figure 11 is a perspective view of a tray 10 according to the invention, viewed obliquely from above. Figure 11 Figure 1 shows the tray 10 according to the invention for holding bottles and / or multipacks. The tray 10 has a frame 12 with side walls 14 and a base 16. A plurality of freestanding fins 20 can be seen in the interior of the tray 10. The frame 12 and the fins 20 form a structure with bottle holders 11 in a grid. The fins 20 are arranged in the interior of the tray 10 such that each pair of fins 20 is at right angles to each other. It can also be seen that the fins are arranged at the point of tangency between two bottles (when these are held in the tray). In particular, the tray in the example of the Figure 11A double structure with a connecting bridge 36 is visible. Steps 34 are discernible, extending into the interior of the tray on the upper side of the opposing side walls at the wide or end face of the tray, as well as on each side of the connecting bridge 36. Furthermore, the tray 10 has a partition wall 18 arranged longitudinally on the central axis of the tray, which is interrupted by the connecting bridge 36, and two partition walls 18 arranged transversely. Finally, each substructure of the double structure of the tray has two intersecting partition walls, forming a grid of four substructures or segments for holding bottles and / or bottle packs, in this case a multipack of a maximum of six bottles. Recesses extending vertically from the base are also visible at the intersection points of the longitudinally and transversely running partition walls 18.It can also be seen that the tray in the example of the . Figure 11 The tray includes fins of different designs. Specifically, it includes double-T fins 21 and single-T fins 22. The latter are arranged transversely on the central axis of each segment such that the lateral edge projects towards the center of the segment. Also visible are banded ribs 60 arranged at the level of the transverse partition and horizontal corner ribs 61. The in Figure 11 Tray 10 shown is set up to hold 48 bottles.

[0121] Figure 12 is a perspective view of a tray 10 according to the invention, viewed obliquely from below. In particular, the Figure 9 the tray of the example from Figure 11oblique view from below. A division into two substructures, including the cavity of the connecting bridge 36 with stabilizing webs 37, is again visible. A support or guide frame 38 on both substructures of the double structure is also visible. Bottle head supports 33b and stabilizing elements 39 are also visible. These are arranged such that at least two stabilizing elements 39, together with at least one further stabilizing element 39, and / or the support or guide frame 38, form a receptacle for a bottle head (with or without a cap) of a bottle that may be located underneath. In this example, it can be seen that the stabilizing elements 39 forming a receptacle for a bottle head are connected to each other laterally. The resulting octagonal structure is also visible in the case of four such connected stabilizing elements. In the corner area, or...The stabilizing elements 39, which form a receptacle for a bottle head, are in turn laterally connected to the support or guide frame at the lateral edges.

[0122] Figure 13 Figure 1 is a perspective view of a tray 10 according to the invention, viewed obliquely from below. In particular, the figure shows Figure 13 A variant of the underside, which is particularly conceivable in a tray that has two longitudinally extending partition walls in its interior, which run parallel to the longitudinally extending side walls and connect the opposite transversely extending side walls, as is the case, for example, in the tray made of Figure 6 is realized (whereby the in the Figure 6(The partition walls shown do not have a recess extending vertically from the base of the tray at their intersection point, although this is conceivable). On the underside 17 of the base 16, the two longitudinal stabilizing strips 70 are visible, running along the frame and located below the longitudinal partition walls inside the tray. Also visible are two edge strips 71 running parallel to the stabilizing strips along the tray's length. Each edge strip 71, together with the stabilizing strip 70 directly opposite it, or both stabilizing strips 70 together, form a longitudinal structure along the tray for receiving bottle necks. The semicircular recesses 72 in the edge strips 71 and stabilizing strips 70 for receiving bottle necks with closures (e.g., crown caps) are also visible.The stabilizing strips 70 each have a circular opening 73 in the area corresponding to the intersection point of two partition walls. Furthermore, two banding ribs 60 are visible on the longitudinal side wall 14a, as well as horizontal ribs 61 at the corners of the tray.

[0123] Figure 14 Figure 1 is a perspective view of a floor roller 40 according to the invention, taken obliquely from above. The base plate 42 with its securing structure, comprising a frame 44 that surrounds the outer edge of the base plate and defines an interior space 46 suitable for receiving the tray, is clearly visible. Also visible is a support or stabilizing plate 48 with engagement holes 50 and an anti-slip device 52. Rollers 54, mounted on the underside of the base plate, are also visible.

[0124] The invention is not limited to the embodiments described here and the aspects highlighted therein. Rather, within the scope specified by the claims, a multitude of modifications are possible that fall within the bounds of what is considered skilled in the art. Reference symbol list

[0125] 10 Tray / Bottle Tray 11 Bottle Holder 12 Frame 14 Side Wall 14a Longitudinal Side Wall 14b Transverse Side Wall 16 Base 17 Underside 18 Partition Wall 20 Fin 21 Double-T Fin 22 Single-T Fin 30 Base Body 31a Projection 31b Projection 32 Center Cross 33a Reinforcing Strut 33b Bottle Head Support 34 Step 36 Connecting Bridge 37 Stabilizing Strut 38 Support or Guide Frame 39 Stabilizing Element 60 Banding Ribs 61 Horizontal Corner Ribs 70 Stabilizing Strip 71 Edge Strip 72 Recess 73 Opening 40 Floor roller 42 Base plate 44 Frame 46 Interior 48 Support or stabilizing plate 50 Entry hole 52 Anti-slip device 54 Roller

Claims

1. Tray (10) for receiving bottles (40) comprising a frame (12), a base (16) and a plurality of fins (20) and / or flat pins (21) extending from the base of the tray, the frame forming side walls (14) of the tray, characterized by the fact thatin the interior, a structure with bottle receptacles (11) in a grid is formed by the frame and the fins and / or flat pins, wherein each bottle receptacle is designed to receive a single bottle, at least two fins and / or flat pins, which together with the frame and / or at least one further fin or flat pin form a bottle receptacle, are at right angles to each other, the fins and / or flat pins are spaced apart both from the frame and from each other and are not laterally connected to the frame or to each other, the fins and / or flat pins are arranged such that they are each located at the tangent point between two bottles when these are placed in two adjacent bottle receptacles, and each bottle, once placed in a bottle receptacle, is surrounded by at least two fins, or by at least two flat pins, or by at least one fin and at least one flat pin.

2. Tray according to claim 1, wherein the fins and / or flat quills have a height of about 35 to about 45 mm, preferably a height of about 40 mm, and / or a length of about 35 mm to about 45 mm, preferably a length of about 40 mm.

3. Tray according to claim 1 or 2, comprising a plurality of fins (20).

4. Tray according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein each bottle, once placed in a bottle holder, is surrounded by at least two fins (20).

5. Tray according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the tray has at least 40 bottle holders (11) for holding 0.5 liter bottles or at least 48 bottle holders (11) for holding 0.33 liter bottles.

6. Tray according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the bottle holders (11) are designed as a double structure in a grid of 8 x 5 fields, which is divided into two substructures, each having bottle holders in a grid of 4 x 5 fields, or wherein the bottle holders (11) are designed as a double structure in a grid of 8 x 6 fields, which is divided into two substructures, each having bottle holders in a grid of 4 x 6 fields.

7. Tray according to claim 6, wherein the substructures are connected to each other on one side, preferably on one of their longitudinal sides, by a connecting bridge (36).

8. Tray according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the tray has a step (34) on the upper side of each of two opposing side walls, directed into the interior of the tray.

9. Tray according to claim 8, wherein the step (34) has a height in the range of about 3 mm to about 30 mm, and / or a depth in the range of about 3 mm to about 30 mm.

10. Tray according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the tray has at least one support or guide element (38) on the underside of the base which is recessed in relation to the side walls of the tray.

11. Tray according to claim 10, wherein the support or guide element (38) has a height in the range of about 3 mm to about 30 mm, and / or a thickness in the range of about 3 mm to about 30 mm.

12. Tray according to claim 10 or 11, wherein the tray has a plurality of a stabilizing element (39) extending on the underside of the tray base, wherein an arrangement of at least two stabilizing elements (39) together with at least one further stabilizing element (39) and / or a support or guide element (38) forms a receptacle for a bottle head.

13. Tray according to claim 12, wherein the stabilizing elements (39) are freestanding.

14. Tray according to claim 12, wherein the stabilizing elements (39) forming a receptacle for a bottle head are laterally connected to each other.

15. System for the storage and / or transport of bottles, comprising at least one tray according to one of claims 1 to 14 and a floor roller.

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