Liner for reinforcing a transport container

Abstract

Disclosed is an insert (24) for reinforcing a transport container (2) extending in a longitudinal direction (4), in a transverse direction (6) transverse to the longitudinal direction (4), and in a vertical direction (8) transverse to the longitudinal direction (4) and transverse to the transverse direction (6), comprising a base (10) as viewed in the vertical direction (8), on which a circumferential wall (12) extending in the vertical direction (8) is erected, which together with the base (10) defines a storage space (14) which can be filled via an access opening (16) opposite the base (10) as viewed in the vertical direction (8), comprising a textile cover (26) which encloses at least one board (25) extending in the vertical direction (8) and which can be inserted into the transport container (2) between the base (10) and the access opening (16), and has at least one fastening element (28) spaced transversely to the vertical direction (8) and which is configured to to be detachably attached to the surrounding wall (12).

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to an insert for reinforcing a transport container and a transport container with the insert.

[0002] From WO 2022 / 118336 A1, a transport container is known which is composed of several components including MDF, plywood or fiberboard, paper channels, paper tubes and corresponding adhesives. To increase the stackability of the transport container, special inserts such as vertical and horizontal stiffeners are used, " lock tubes "and support strips are used. These elements are integrated into a modular structure, with the individual parts joined by adhesive to increase the stability and load-bearing capacity of the box and to make it safely stackable."

[0003] The purpose of the invention is to improve known insoles.

[0004] The problem is solved by the features of the independent claims. Preferred further developments are the subject of the dependent claims.

[0005] According to one aspect of the invention, an insert for reinforcing a transport container extending in a longitudinal direction, in a transverse direction transverse to the longitudinal direction, and in a vertical direction transverse to the longitudinal and transverse directions comprises a base (viewed in the vertical direction) on which a vertically extending circumferential wall is erected, which together with the base defines a storage space which can be filled via an access opening opposite the base (viewed in the vertical direction), a textile cover which encloses at least one vertically extending board which can be inserted into the transport container between the base and the access opening, and has one, preferably two, fastening elements spaced apart transversely to the vertical direction, which are designed to be detachably attached to the circumferential wall.

[0006] The underlying assumption for this proposal is that industrial freight forwarding, particularly when transporting mechanically sensitive goods such as cable harnesses, places special demands on the stability and safety of transport containers. Traditionally, rigid racks have been used to protect the goods from pressure and deformation. While these racks offer good protection, they also have several disadvantages. They are heavy and bulky, significantly increasing transport costs. Furthermore, they require considerable space for both storage and return transport, leading to additional logistical challenges and expenses. The time required for assembling and disassembling these racks should also not be underestimated.

[0007] While the aforementioned insert could eliminate the need for a frame, as it offers improved stackability and structural integrity through the integration of specific reinforcing elements into the walls of the transport containers, this solution has the disadvantage that the rigid and permanently integrated components, while increasing stability, do not address the flexibility of handling or the cost issues of return transport.

[0008] The specified insert, consisting of a textile cover that at least partially encloses a vertically aligned board, overcomes these disadvantages. Its design effectively stabilizes the walls of the transport container without the drawbacks of a rigid frame. The insert can be easily and quickly inserted into the transport container and detachably attached to the walls. This allows for simple disassembly and flat storage of the insert after use, significantly simplifying and reducing the cost of returning and storing empty transport containers.

[0009] Furthermore, the insert is lightweight and flexible, which facilitates handling and reduces the overall weight of the transport container. This lowers transport costs and increases efficiency in the logistics process. The textile cover enclosing the board provides additional protection for sensitive goods, for example, against surface scratches, and can be adjusted as needed, making the insert universally applicable. With these features, the insert not only addresses the specific needs of industrial freight forwarders when transporting sensitive goods, but also offers a cost-effective, flexible, and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional transport racks.

[0010] In a further development of the specified insert, the board can be angled around an axis aligned in the vertical direction. By angling the board, the insert can be positioned closer to the wall of the transport container, thus increasing the usable storage space of the container and utilizing it more efficiently.

[0011] In a further development of the specified insert, at least one fastening element is attached to one end of the board perpendicular to its vertical direction. This allows for simple and effective installation of the insert within the transport container, as the fastening element is directly accessible without having to reach between the container wall and the insert. This significantly simplifies and speeds up the installation process. By positioning the fastening element at the end of the board, it can be quickly and easily attached to the corresponding fixing points on the container walls. This is particularly advantageous in busy logistics environments where time savings and efficiency are paramount.Users don't need to awkwardly reach behind the insert, which not only reduces physical effort but also minimizes the risk of damage or incorrect installation. This user-friendly design not only promotes quick installation and removal but also improves cargo safety during transport. The secure and direct attachment of the insert to the walls of the shipping container provides stable and reliable support, protecting the cargo from movement and vibration. This further reduces the likelihood of transport damage, thereby lowering overall costs and logistics effort.

[0012] In a further development of the specified insert, the fastening element extends vertically from the bottom to the top of the board. This optimizes the use of the fastening surface, further improving the overall system's stability. By extending the fastening element along the entire length of the board, a more even distribution of pressure on the walls of the transport container is achieved. This is particularly important as it preserves the structural integrity of the transport container under various stress conditions such as vibrations, impacts, or when stacking multiple containers. Such continuous fastening prevents the board from loosening or shifting during movement of the transport container, significantly improving the safety of the transported goods.Furthermore, this facilitates the vertical alignment of the fastener during installation, as it provides a clear and simple guideline for its placement. The user can immediately see where and how the fastener should be attached, minimizing assembly errors. This efficient installation not only saves time during the packing process but also contributes to reducing maintenance and repair costs in the long term by ensuring that the insert is correctly and securely fastened.

[0013] In another iteration of the specified insert, the fastening element is designed as a tab. Since tabs are easy to grip and guide, this simplifies and speeds up the assembly process. They can be quickly and easily attached to suitable mounting points on the wall of the transport container, saving time, especially in busy logistics environments. Furthermore, tabs allow for flexible adaptation to various mounting points within the transport container. This is particularly advantageous when transport containers have different internal configurations or mounting options. By using tabs, the insert can be efficiently used in a wide variety of transport container types and sizes without requiring special or different fastening elements. Another advantage of tabs as fastening elements is their robustness and reliability.They offer a strong and durable connection that is less susceptible to wear or damage under the harsh conditions of transport. Straps can also be designed to have a degree of elasticity, allowing them to absorb some movement of the load during transport without the risk of loosening or tearing.

[0014] Several options are available for the fastening of the specified insert, including buttons, hooks, loops, and hook-and-loop fasteners. Buttons are a simple solution that can be quickly released for rapid repacking. Hooks, on the other hand, offer a stronger and more secure connection, especially with regard to tensile forces, and are particularly suitable for heavy loads that need to be held securely during transport. Loops are flexible and can be easily attached to various points within the transport container, making them versatile. Hook-and-loop fasteners are a particularly convenient method, as they are user-friendly and allow for quick and easy installation and removal of the inserts.Due to their optimal load distribution across the surface, they are strong enough to securely hold the insert, yet offer sufficient flexibility for quick adjustment or removal. Furthermore, hook-and-loop fasteners are durable and reusable, making them particularly cost-effective in industrial applications. Their ease of use reduces installation and removal time and minimizes the risk of assembly errors.

[0015] In a further development, the specified insert includes an additional board, positioned perpendicular to the vertical direction, next to the main board within the textile cover. This arrangement allows for an adjustable angle, significantly improving adaptability to different load sizes and shapes. An adjustable angle enables optimal use of space within the transport container by allowing the main board to be adjusted as needed. This is particularly advantageous when transporting different types of goods, each with specific storage space requirements. For example, with bulky or irregularly shaped goods, changing the angle allows for the efficient use of additional space without the need for extra filler materials or packaging. Furthermore, the ability to adjust the angle increases the stability of the load during transport.By adjusting the angle, the board can be positioned close to the load, providing better support and securing it against movement. This is particularly important for sensitive or high-value goods that must be protected from shocks and vibrations during transport. Integrating an additional board positioned perpendicular to the vertical direction also allows for improved load distribution within the transport container. By adjusting the main board according to the load distribution, the weight can be distributed more evenly across the base of the container, reducing the likelihood of damage from overloading specific areas. Ultimately, this solution also offers advantages in terms of the insert's reusability and versatility.The insert can be adapted for different transport containers and transport conditions, reducing the need for specific inserts for each type of cargo. This leads to cost savings and more efficient logistics, as the same insert can be used for a wide range of transport tasks.

[0016] In a preferred refinement of the specified insert, the first board and the second board are spaced apart perpendicular to the vertical direction. This further improves the insert's adaptability to irregularly shaped or sized objects. The gaps between the boards can also be used to create additional support or fixing points for securing the load, allowing for even more customized adaptation to specific load requirements.

[0017] The first board and the second board are ideally designed symmetrically to each other. This makes stacking the inserts for return transport easier and more intuitive, saving not only space but also time that would otherwise be needed for carefully placing and securing the inserts.

[0018] According to a further aspect of the invention, a transport container for storing a cable harness comprises a base extending in a longitudinal direction and a transverse direction transverse to the longitudinal direction, a wall extending in a vertical direction transverse to the longitudinal direction and transverse to the transverse direction, which is placed on the base and encloses a storage space open at the top in the vertical direction for storing the cable harness, and at least one, preferably four, inserts as described above, which are detachably attached to the wall and are arranged extending between the base and the top.

[0019] The properties, features, and advantages of this invention described above, as well as the manner in which they are achieved, will become clearer in connection with the following description of the exemplary embodiments, which are explained in more detail in conjunction with the drawings. The drawings show: Fig. 1 in a perspective view a sealed transport container, Fig. 2 in a perspective view the transport container of the Fig. 1 in an open state, Fig. 3 in a perspective view the transport container of the Fig. 2 , in which boards have been removed from its walls, Fig. 4 an insert for the transport container according to Figures 1 to 3 from a first perspective view, and Fig. 5 the insert for the transport container of the Fig. 4 from a second perspective view.

[0020] In the figures, identical technical elements are labelled with the same reference symbols and described only once. The figures are purely schematic and, above all, do not represent the actual geometric relationships.

[0021] It will be on Figs. 1 to 3 Reference is made to figures which, in different states, show a transport container 2 in a space spanned by a longitudinal direction 4, a transverse direction 6 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 4 and a vertical direction 8 perpendicular to the longitudinal direction 4 and perpendicular to the transverse direction 6.

[0022] The Transport Container 2 is specifically designed for the storage and transport of industrial goods, particularly wiring harnesses, such as those used in the automotive industry for connecting electronic components in a vehicle. One of the challenges in using Transport Container 2 is optimizing the available space within a logistics container while simultaneously meeting stackability requirements. This is especially important in high-volume shipping scenarios, such as the transport of wiring harnesses in the automotive industry, where every additional transportable layer of containers within the logistics container provides a competitive advantage.

[0023] The transport container 2 has a base 10 extending in the longitudinal direction 4 and the transverse direction 6. The base 10 serves as a stable surface on which the transport container 2 can be placed. A wall 12 is erected on the base 10 and is formed around an axis (not shown) oriented in the vertical direction 8. The wall 12 rests directly on the base 10 and is aligned with the base 10, which provides the transport container 2 with additional stability.

[0024] The storage space 14, bounded by floor 10 and wall 12, serves for the safe storage of industrial goods, such as cable harnesses. The construction of wall 12 plays a crucial role in protecting the industrial goods from external influences during transport, which will be discussed in more detail later.

[0025] On the upper side of the transport container 2, as viewed in the vertical direction 8, there is an access opening 16, which is opposite the bottom 10 in the vertical direction 8. The access opening 16 makes it possible to place the industrial goods into or remove them from the storage space 14.

[0026] The storage compartment 14 of the transport container 2 can be closed by one of the lids 18, which are formed from four parts 18'. These four parts 18' are each pivotable about axes (not shown) that are held against the surrounding wall 12 and overlap each other when closing the storage compartment 14. The axes are aligned in the longitudinal direction 4 and in the transverse direction 6. This arrangement allows each part of the lid 18 to be moved and positioned independently to facilitate or close access to the storage compartment 14, thus providing flexibility in loading and unloading the transport container 2 and simultaneously ensuring the safety of the industrial goods stored therein by completely covering and protecting the storage compartment 14 when all parts 18' of the lid 18 are closed.

[0027] The surrounding wall 12 of the transport container 2 is multi-part and consists of four individual walls 12', which together enclose the storage space 14 and are not all labelled with their own reference symbols in the figures. Each individual wall 12' is also multi-part and consists of a fabric wall covering 20 and a wall board 22 sewn into the fabric wall covering 20. In the Figs. 2 and 3 This situation is only shown schematically. The design offers several advantages, both for the protection of the transported goods and for the mechanical stability of the container.

[0028] The wall-mounted fabric cover 20 protects the transported goods from external influences such as dust, moisture, and minor mechanical impacts. It provides an additional layer that prevents the penetration of dirt and other contaminants, which is particularly important when transporting sensitive industrial goods such as cable harnesses.

[0029] The wall board 22 sewn into the wall fabric cover 20 provides the necessary mechanical stability. It reinforces the structure of each individual wall 12' and thus of the wall 12 as a whole, ensuring that the transport container 2 can better withstand buckling loads in order to retain its shape, even when loaded with heavy or irregularly shaped goods. This structure thus improves the stackability of multiple transport containers 2 of the Figures 1 to 3 The structure shown allows the transport container to carry two goods with higher weights.

[0030] To further reinforce the transport container 2, inserts 24 are arranged in the corners of the storage space 14. These inserts absorb pressure loads when the transport containers 2 are stacked, thus supporting mechanical stability when multiple transport containers 2 are stacked on top of each other. The placement of these inserts 24 in the corners of the storage space 14 therefore significantly increases the structural integrity of the transport container 2.

[0031] Specifically, the inserts absorb 24 vertical loads opposite to the vertical direction 8 that arise when the transport containers 2 are stacked on top of each other, thus preventing the walls 12 and the bottom 10 of the transport container 2 from yielding or deforming under the weight of any transport containers 2 stacked above them. This ensures that the storage space 14 remains stable even under heavy loads and protects the stored goods from damage.

[0032] This additional reinforcement provided by the inserts 24 ensures that the transport container 2 is not only suitable for transporting sensitive industrial goods such as cable harnesses, but is also optimized for efficient and secure stacking in storage and transport environments. The combination of the robust individual walls 12', the stable lid construction 18, and the reinforcing inserts 24 in the corners guarantees high load-bearing capacity and protection for the transported goods.

[0033] The following describes the structure of the insoles 24 based on the Figures 4 and 5 in detail.

[0034] Each insert 24 consists of two insert boards 25 sewn into a common insert fabric cover 26. This construction provides additional stability and strength, necessary to safely absorb the pressure loads when stacking the transport containers 2. At the ends of the insert fabric cover 26, perpendicular to the vertical direction 8, there are tabs 28 equipped with concealed hook-and-loop fasteners. These hook-and-loop fasteners on the tabs 28 allow for easy and secure attachment of the inserts 24 to corresponding, also concealed, counterparts held on the wall fabric covers 20 of the individual walls 12'. By attaching the tabs 28 using the hook-and-loop fasteners, the inserts 24 can be firmly and securely fastened to the wall 12 of the transport container 2.

[0035] This fastening method offers the advantage that the inserts 24 can be quickly and easily mounted and dismounted. At the same time, the hook-and-loop fastener ensures a secure and reliable fixation, which is necessary to guarantee the structural integrity of the transport container 2, even under heavy loads. This keeps the storage space 14 stable and provides optimal protection for the transported goods.

[0036] Each insert board 25 is angled about the vertical direction 8 at a bending angle 32. This bending angle 32 further increases the buckling load resistance against the vertical direction 8. That is, by bending the insert boards 25, additional structural support is created, which helps to better distribute and absorb the pressure and loads that arise when stacking the transport containers 2. The bending angle 32 ensures that the insert boards 25 can efficiently absorb not only vertical loads but also lateral compressive forces, thus increasing the stability of the entire container. This design of the inserts 24 with angled insert boards 25 therefore improves the resistance of the transport container 2 to deformation and loads in all directions 4, 6, 8 that may occur during transport and storage.This ensures that storage space 14 and the goods stored therein remain optimally protected and stable even under difficult conditions.

[0037] The insert boards 25 are held in the insert fabric covering 26 with a buffer distance 34 perpendicular to the vertical direction 8. This buffer distance 34 ensures that the insert boards 25 remain slightly separated from each other, which offers several advantages.

[0038] The buffer gap 34 ensures that there is a certain amount of free space between the insert boards 25, which allows for additional flexibility and shock absorption. This is particularly useful for absorbing shocks and vibrations during transport, thus increasing the safety of the transported goods in storage space 14. The buffer gap allows the insert boards 25 to move slightly without compromising their structural integrity, which improves the overall damping properties of the transport container 2.

[0039] Additionally, the buffer gap 34 ensures that the insert boards 25 do not collide directly with each other, which reduces wear on the insert boards 25 and extends their service life. This design helps the inserts 24 retain their shape and strength even after repeated use, resulting in greater reliability and durability of the transport container 2.

[0040] The two insert boards 25 in the insert fabric cover 26 are symmetrical with respect to a plane (not shown) that traverses the buffer gap 34 centrally and at right angles. This symmetrical arrangement offers several advantages for the stability and functionality of the inserts 24.

[0041] The symmetrical design of the insert boards 25 enables an even load distribution, which further increases the structural integrity of the transport container 2. The symmetrical arrangement ensures that the forces acting on the inserts 24 are distributed evenly, thereby reducing the stress on the individual insert walls. This results in improved stability and durability of the inserts.

[0042] Deposits of 24 can also be made in Fig. 2 and 3 The support plates 36 shown are placed on the container, acting like bridges and further increasing the mechanical stability of the transport container 2. These support plates 36 distribute the load evenly over the inserts 24, thus preventing point loads that could lead to deformation or damage.

[0043] The support plates 36 work by distributing the force acting on the transport container 2 over a larger area. This reduces the load on individual areas and increases the overall strength of the structure. Particularly when stacking several containers on top of each other, the support plates 36 help to ensure stability and distribute the load evenly onto the underlying inserts 24.

[0044] To assemble the transport container 2, all four individual walls 12' of wall 12 are first erected at right angles to the floor 10. This arrangement forms the basic structure of the transport container 2 and creates the basis for the storage space 14.

[0045] The inserts 24 are then placed in the corners of the storage space 14. These inserts hold the individual walls 12' firmly against each other, ensuring that the structure remains stable and secure. The insertion of the inserts 24 forms and reinforces the storage space 14. The goods can then be placed into the storage space 14 through the access opening 16.

[0046] Before or after the cargo is placed inside, the support plates 36 are placed on the inserts 24, further increasing the mechanical stability of the entire container. Finally, the access opening 16 is closed with all four parts 18' of the lid 18. Each part 18' of the lid 18 is pivoted about its respective axis and securely fastened to completely close the transport container 2 and protect the cargo from external influences.

[0047] As a result, several of the transport containers 2 can be stacked mechanically stable even in standard shipping containers, making maximum use of the space in the shipping container, without damaging mechanically sensitive goods such as cable harnesses during transport.

Claims

1. Insert (24) for reinforcing a transport container (2) extending in a longitudinal direction (4), in a transverse direction (6) transverse to the longitudinal direction (4) and in a vertical direction (8) transverse to the longitudinal direction (4) and transverse to the transverse direction (6), comprising a base (10) as viewed in the vertical direction (8), on which a circumferential wall (12) extending in the vertical direction (8) is erected, which together with the base (10) defines a storage space (14) which can be filled via an access opening (16) opposite the base (10) as viewed in the vertical direction (8), comprising a textile cover (26) which encloses at least one board (25) extending in the vertical direction (8) and which can be inserted into the transport container (2) between the base (10) and the access opening (16), and which has at least one fastening element (28) spaced transversely to the vertical direction (8) and which is configured to to be detachably attached to the surrounding wall (12).

2. Insert (24) according to claim 1, wherein the board (25) is angled about an axis aligned in the vertical direction (8).

3. Insert (24) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the fastening element (28) is attached to an end of the board (25) viewed transversely to the vertical direction (8).

4. Insert (24) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein at least the fastening element (28) extends in the vertical direction (8) from a lower end to an upper end of the board (25).

5. Insert (24) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fastening element (28) is designed as a tab.

6. Insert (24) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the fastening element (28) is a connecting partner of a hook and loop fastener with the wall (12) of the transport container (2).

7. Insert (24) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising at least one further board (25) which, viewed transversely to the vertical direction (8), is held next to the board (25) in the textile sheath (26).

8. Insert (24) according to claim 7, wherein the board (25) and the further board (25) are spaced apart (34) from each other when viewed transversely to the vertical direction (8).

9. Insert (34) according to claim 7 or 8, wherein the board (25) and the further board (25) are symmetrical to each other.

10. Transport container (2) for storing a cable harness comprising a base (10) extending in a longitudinal direction (4) and a transverse direction (6) transverse to the longitudinal direction (4), a wall (12) extending in a vertical direction (8) transverse to the longitudinal direction (4) and transverse to the transverse direction (6), which is placed on the base (10) and encloses with the base (10) a storage space (14) open at the top in the vertical direction (8) for storing the cable harness and at least one, preferably four inserts (24) detachably fastened to the wall (12) according to one of the preceding claims, which are arranged extending between the base (10) and the top.

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