Versatile foldable container

Abstract

A container (1) comprising a base (10) and four side walls (12, 14, 16, 18), the container (1) being configured to be placed into an extended and a collapsed configuration, - in the extended configuration the container (1) comprises a first storage capacity (20) able to receive goods of a first dimension, - in the collapsed configuration, the container (1) comprises a second storage capacity (22) to receive goods of a second dimension, wherein the first storage capacity (20) is greater than the second storage capacity (22), wherein each one of the four side walls (12, 14, 16, 18) comprises a groove folding area (30), the groove folding area (30) being configured to divide each side wall (12, 14, 16, 18) into a first side wall element (32) below the groove folding area and a second side wall element (34) above the groove folding area (30), and wherein at least two of the four side walls (12, 14, 16, 18) comprise at least two folding grooves (36, 38) in the groove folding area (30), the at least two folding grooves (36, 38) being substantially parallel to the base (10).

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of storage containers, and more specifically to foldable storage containers designed to optimize space utilization and ease of transport.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Storage containers are essential in various sectors, including residential, commercial, industrial, and logistics where they are used to store, transport, and organize a wide range of items. Such containers come in various shapes and sizes, typically made from materials such as plastic, metal, and cardboard. However, these containers are rigid and do not offer flexibility in terms of storage space when they are loaded with relatively smaller goods, and therefore face considerable limitations in terms of space efficiency and the capacity to being efficiently stacked when not in use.

[0003] Several attempts have been made to address these issues through the development of collapsible or foldable storage containers. For example, some designs incorporate hinges and joints that allow the walls of the container to fold inward, reducing the overall volume of the container to a minimum when not in use. Other designs use flexible materials that can be folded or rolled up. However, such approaches often suffer from drawbacks such as complexity in design, a lack of structural integrity when unfolded, a lack of capacity for stacking on top of other containers of the same kind in either the unfolded or folded configuration, and such containers remain uncapable of providing an optimal storage capacity for goods of different sizes. While some cardboard containers have been described wherein portions of the side walls can be cut off to achieve this, this change in storage capacity can only be effected once and therefore does not offer a environmental friendly and reusable approach. Alternative approaches using telescopic elements to change the storage capacity are often cumbersome to use and are prone to mechanical failure.

[0004] There is thus an unmet need for improved foldable containers that overcome the above-mentioned problems.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The present inventors have developed a foldable container that overcomes the above-mentioned problems of containers described in the art. Surprisingly, by using at least two folding grooves located in the side wall substantially parallel to the base of the container, a foldable container having a variable storage capacity is obtained that is reusable and stackable with other containers of the same type, regardless which configuration said other containers are in. Notably, the container does not rely on telescopic moving elements. The two folding grooves serve a dual purpose; in addition to allowing the side walls to fold, they also provide a means to mitigate the thickness of the folded side walls, such that each of the side walls can be placed substantially horizontally in the folded configuration of the container, regardless of which side wall is folded first and which one is placed on top of the already folded side wall. Furthermore, in a collapsed configuration a portion of the side walls may act as an additional protection means for the stored goods.

[0006] According to a first aspect there is provided a container comprising a base and four side walls, the container being configured to be placed into an extended and a collapsed configuration, in the extended configuration the container comprises a first storage capacity able to receive goods of a first dimension, in the collapsed configuration, the container comprises a second storage capacity to receive goods of a second dimension, wherein the first storage capacity is greater than the second storage capacity, wherein each one of the four side walls comprises a groove folding area, the groove folding area being configured to divide each side wall into a first side wall element below the groove folding area and a second side wall element above the groove folding area, and wherein at least two of the four side walls comprise at least two folding grooves in the groove folding area, the at least two folding grooves being substantially parallel to the base.

[0007] In a preferred embodiment, each of the four side walls comprise at least two folding grooves in their respective groove folding area.

[0008] Having at least two folding grooves at some or all of the side walls will allow the side walls to be folded inwardly such that the second side wall element is able to be placed parallel to the base of the container regardless of which side wall is pivoted first. Hence, a variation of height can be accomplished for each second side wall element of each side wall such that each second side wall element can be positioned parallel to the base of the container.

[0009] In a preferred embodiment, the container comprises reinforcing elements. In a preferred embodiment, the container is configured to receive a top lid in the extended and / or collapsed configuration. The top lid can be positioned on the container regardless of the configuration the container is in. When the container is in the extended configuration and the four side walls are folded uprightly, the top lid can rest on the upper ends of the side walls to close off the area inside the container. When the container is in the collapsed configuration, the side walls will be positioned below the top of the reinforcement corners and the top lid can rest on the top of the reinforcement corners, thus shielding not only the smaller area inside the container, but also the side wall elements which are folded inwardly. In a preferred embodiment, the container is stackable with a second identical container in both the extended configuration and the collapsed configuration. When the top lid is placed on top of the container, regardless of the configuration the container is in, it is possible to stack containers on top of each other, since the top lid will provide for a flat surface to place the next container on.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment, the combination of the folding grooves are configured to position the first and the second side wall element relative to each other such that the side wall elements form an angle α in the extended configuration of about 180° and / or to position the first and the second side wall element relative to each other such that the side wall elements forms an angle α in the collapsed configuration of about 90°.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment, the folding grooves in opposing side walls are located on the same height and / or wherein the folding grooves in adjacent side walls are located on a different height above the base. When two folding grooves are foreseen in each side wall, and the grooves in the side walls opposite from each other are foreseen at the same height above the base, each side walls can be place on top of the other. If the first side wall is collapsed first, the lowest grove will be used to bent the side wall, thus positioning the second side wall element at the lowest distance above the base. When the third side wall, being the side wall opposite from the first side wall is now collapsed, the upper grove will be used to bent the third side wall, thus positioning the second side wall element of the third side wall at a higher distance above the base, compared to the second side wall element of the first side wall. Now, the second side wall element of the third side wall is able to lay on top of the first side wall. However, if the third side wall is collapsed first, the lower grove will be used to bent the third side wall, while the upper grove of the first side wall will be used when collapsing the first side wall on top of the already collapsed third side wall, this time allowing the first side wall to lay on top of the third side wall. Similar to the first and third side walls, the grooves of the second and fourth side walls are located at the same height above the base. However, it is preferred that the grooves of the first and third side walls are at a different height than the grooves of the second and fourth side walls to allow all the walls to be positioned parallel to the base when in their collapsed configuration.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment, the folding grooves are indented grooves in the side walls. By using indented grooves, it is possible to reposition each second side wall element relative to its respective first side wall element such that the corresponding first and second side wall elements form an angle α of 90° when the side wall is in its collapsed configuration.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment, the folding groove area is located in the side wall such that the collapsed configuration comprises a storage capacity that is 1 / 2 or less, preferably 1 / 3 or less, preferably 1 / 4 or less, preferably 1 / 6 or less, preferably 1 / 8 or less, preferably 1 / 10 or less, preferably 1 / 12 or less, preferably 1 / 15 or less, of the storage capacity in the extended configuration. In a preferred embodiment, multiple folding groove areas are foreseen on each side wall, allowing the storage capacity of the container to vary depending on the folding groove area and respective folding grooves used to collapse the side walls. It is thus possible to have a container which is able to have a first storage capacity which is e.g. 1 / 2 of the storage capacity in the extended configuration and to have a second storage capacity which is e.g. 1 / 8 of the storage capacity in the extended configuration. By having more than one groove folding area, it is possible to enhance the versatility of the container.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment, each side wall maintains physical integrity in both the extended and collapsed configuration. Such side walls will thus be able to adequately shield and secure any objects placed inside the container, regardless of the configuration the container is in.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment, the container further comprises at least two securing mechanisms configured to fixate the side walls of the container when the side walls are in the extended configuration. In order to maintain the side walls of the container uprightly when the side walls are extended, the side walls may be releasably connected to each other such that two neighbouring side walls are fixated with each other and are able to maintain their extended and upright position, thus forming a container in an extended configuration. Preferably, four securing mechanisms are foreseen as to fixate each side wall with a neighbouring side wall. Preferably, two securing mechanisms are foreseen on the second side wall, and two securing mechanisms are foreseen on the opposite fourth side wall. Preferably, each securing mechanism is located on an outer side or edge of the side wall such that the securing mechanism is able to connect with the outer side or edge of the neighbouring side wall.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, each securing mechanism comprises a first leg positioned on a first side of a side wall, a second leg positioned on a second side of the side wall, and a rotating means positioned through an opening in the side wall, the rotating means connecting a first end of the first leg with a first end of the second leg.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment, the securing mechanism further comprises a connecting leg connecting a second end of the first leg with a second end of the second leg. Having a first leg on one side, a second leg on the other side of the side wall and a connecting leg in between the first and second leg, will allow for a secure connection of the side walls. When the securing mechanism is rotated in a substantially vertical position, such that the first and second legs are substantially perpendicular to the base of the container, the securing mechanism is inactive thus allowing the movement of neighbouring side walls relatively to each other. When the securing mechanism is rotated in a substantially horizontal position, such that the first and second legs are substantially parallel to the base of the container, the securing mechanism is active, thus preventing the movement of neighbouring side walls.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment, an extension is connected to a first side wall, a first securing mechanism is connected to a second side wall, the second side wall being adjacent to the first side wall and wherein the extension being configured such that it can be positioned between the securing mechanism and the second side wall. Preferably, the extension is configured such that it forms an angle of 90° with the first side wall to which it is connected. Preferably, an extension is foreseen on both edges of the first side wall, such that it can cooperate with the securing mechanisms on either side of the side wall. By having an extension on the edge of the first side wall, the legs of the securing mechanism will be able to have a close fit when brought into the active position and thus the securing mechanism will be able to function in an improved manner.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, a recess is provided in the top of a first side wall and a first securing mechanism is connected to a second side wall, the second side wall being adjacent to the first side wall, and wherein the recess is positioned such that the first or second leg of the first securing mechanism is able to pivot in the recess of the first side wall. By providing such a recess, the leg of the securing mechanism which is positioned on the inside of the container will be able to more securely fixate the first side wall relative to the second side wall. In particular when the securing mechanism is foreseen with the connecting leg, the connecting leg can be positioned such that it will effectively secure the neighbouring side walls. In the active position, the inner leg of the securing mechanism will be able to lay in the recess, while the outer leg of the securing mechanism will be positioned on the outside of the second side wall and the connecting leg will be positioned on the outside of the first side wall, thus blocking the movement of the first side wall in all directions.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment, the container comprises: a first securing mechanism connected to a first side of a second side wall, a second securing mechanism connected to second side of a second side wall, a third securing mechanism connected to a first side of a fourth side wall, the first second wall being positioned opposite from the fourth side wall, a fourth securing mechanism connected to a second side of the fourth side wall, a first side wall, positioned between the second and the fourth side wall such that the first securing mechanism of the second side wall and the third securing mechanism of the fourth side wall are configured to cooperate with the first side wall, and a third side wall, positioned between the second and the fourth side wall such that the second securing mechanism of the second side wall and the fourth securing mechanism of the fourth side wall are configured to cooperate with the third side wall.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment, the container further comprises at least one locking mechanism, the locking mechanism having a first element connected directly or indirectly to a first side wall and a second element connected to a second side wall, wherein the first and second side wall are adjacent each other, wherein the first and second element of the at least one securing mechanism are positioned near the adjacent side edge of each respective side wall, and wherein the second element is configured to be positioned in the first element and is configured to be rotated inside the first element to securely lock the first side wall to the second side wall. Such a locking mechanism may be installed together with a securing mechanism or the locking mechanism may be installed without a securing mechanism present. The locking mechanism will effectively lock two neighbouring side walls to each other, due to the interlocking of the first element connected to the first side wall and the second element connected to the second side wall. In a preferred embodiment, the second element comprises a rotating part, the rotating part being configured to rotate in the stationary first element when the first and second element are interconnected with each other. When the two elements are brought into contact with each other, the rotating part of the second element is configured to rotate from an inactive position to an active, locking position. The rotating part will thus be relocated such that the rotating part will be blocked by the stationary first element and the two neighbouring side walls are locked with each other and movement of one side wall relative to the other side wall is prevented.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, the at least one locking mechanism is positioned on the edge of a side wall, preferably halfway of the side wall. Especially when the locking mechanisms are used together with the securing mechanisms, each side wall will be connected with a neighbouring side wall at two locations, one being at the top and one being midway the side wall, thus effectively being able to maintain the side walls in an extended position.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment, the container is mounted on a means for facilitating transport of the container, preferably wherein said container is mounted on a loading pallet, optionally wherein the loading pallet is a dismountable loading pallet.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, the container is attached to the loading pallet by one or more reinforcing elements. The reinforcing elements may have multiple functions: the reinforcing elements may be used to secure the side walls to the base of the container and enhance the stability and connection between the side walls and base, the reinforcing elements may be used to position the top lid on when the container is in its collapsed configuration, and the reinforcing elements may be used to connect the container to a loading pallet to allow easy transportation of the container.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment, in the extended configuration the side walls of the container are positioned perpendicular to the base and wherein in the collapsed configuration at least the second side wall elements of the side walls of the container are positioned parallel to the base.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, the side walls, the base, and / or the top lid are comprised of a polymer, preferably a synthetic polymer, more preferably polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyvinylchloride (PVC), polystyrene (PS), polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), and / or polylactic acid (PLA). Such a material will allow the side walls, the base and / or the top lid to form a rigid plate, thus being able to provide for a robust container, regardless of the configuration the container is positioned in.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment, in the extended configuration the container has a substantially rectangular shape, preferably a substantially cuboid shape.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, two or more side walls comprise handles or handle openings. Preferably, the one or more handles and wall are formed as a plastic injected single part. Such handles or handle openings allow for a user to easily manipulate the side walls and bring the container from the collapsed configuration to the extended configuration and vice versa.

[0029] According to a further aspect there is provided a method for moving a container described herein from a collapsed configuration to an extended configuration, wherein the method comprises the steps of: moving the fourth side wall from a position essentially parallel to the base to a position essentially perpendicular to the base, moving the second side wall from a position essentially parallel to the base to a position essentially perpendicular to the base, moving the third side wall from a position essentially parallel to the base to a position essentially perpendicular to the base, moving the first side wall from a position essentially parallel to the base to a position essentially perpendicular to the base, securing the first, second, third and fourth side wall into its upright position by moving at least two securing mechanisms from a first free position to a second secured position, optionally locking the first, second, third and fourth side wall into its upright position by moving at least two locking mechanisms from a first unlocked position to a second locked position.

[0030] According to yet a further aspect there is provided a method for moving a container described herein from an extended configuration to a collapsed configuration, wherein the method comprises the steps of: releasing the first, second, third and fourth side walls by moving at least two securing mechanisms from a second secured position to a first free position, optionally unlocking the first, second, third and fourth side walls by moving at least two locking mechanisms from a second locked position to a first unlocked position, moving a first side wall from a position essentially perpendicular to the base, to a position essentially parallel to the base, the second side wall element of the first side wall being configured to fold around at least one groove in the groove folding area of the first side wall, moving a third side wall from a position essentially perpendicular to the base, to a position essentially parallel to the base, the second side wall element of the third side wall being configured to fold around at least one groove in the groove folding area of the third side wall, moving a second side wall from a position essentially perpendicular to the base, to a position essentially parallel to the base, the second side wall element of the second side wall being configured to fold around at least one groove in the groove folding area of the second side wall, and moving a fourth side wall from a position essentially perpendicular to the base, to a position essentially parallel to the base, the second side wall element of the fourth side wall being configured to fold around at least one groove in the groove folding area of the fourth side wall.

[0031] The above and further aspects and embodiments of the invention are described in the following sections and in the appended claims. The subject matter of the appended claims is hereby specifically incorporated in this specification.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0032] Figure 1A shows a perspective view of a container foreseen with a top lid placed on a loading pallet according to the present invention. The container being in its extended configuration. Figure 1B shows a perspective top view of the container foreseen with a top lid placed on a loading pallet according to the present invention. The container being in its collapsed configuration. Figure 2 shows a perspective top view of the container in its extended configuration as shown in figure 1A without the top lid present to allow a view inside the container. Figure 3 shows a cross section of the container in its collapsed configuration as shown in figure 1B. Figure 4A shows a perspective view of the second and fourth side walls of the container according to the present invention, the side wall being position in a fully extended and upright position. Figure 4B shows a perspective view of the first and third side walls of the container according to the present invention, the side wall being position in a fully extended and upright position. Figures 5A and 5B show a side view of the side wall as shown in figure 4. In figure 5A, the side wall is folded at a first groove located in a groove folding area, thus dividing the side wall into a first side wall element located below the groove folding area and a second side wall element above the groove folding area. In figure 5B, the side wall is folded at a second groove located in a groove folding area, thus dividing the side wall into a first side wall element located below the groove folding area and a second side wall element above the groove folding area. Figure 6 shows a detailed perspective view of the container, top lid and a securing mechanism as shown in figure 1. Figures 7A to 7C show a detailed perspective view of the container side walls and securing mechanism in its secured position as shown in figure 2. Figure 7A shows a detailed view of the securing mechanism from the outside of the container, figure 7B shows a detailed top view of the securing mechanism, and figure 7C shows a detailed view of the securing mechanism from the inside of the container. Figures 8A to 8C show a detailed perspective view of the container side walls and securing mechanism in its free position. Figure 8A shows a detailed view of the securing mechanism from the outside of the container, figure 8B shows a detailed top view of the securing mechanism, and figure 8C shows a detailed view of the securing mechanism from the inside of the container. Figure 9A shows a detailed perspective view of the container side walls and securing mechanism from the inside of the container. The securing mechanism is in its free position and the side walls are free to move relatively to each other. In figure 9B, a detailed perspective view of the container side walls and securing mechanism from the outside of the container is shown, similar to the view of figure 9A. Figures 9A and 9B show an additional locking mechanism which can be used together with the securing mechanism to lock and unlock the side walls with respect to each other to prevent or allow movement of the side walls. Figure 10A shows a detailed perspective outer view of the container, top lid, a securing mechanism and a first embodiment of the locking mechanism according to the present invention. Figure 10B shows a detailed perspective inner view of the container, a securing mechanism and the first embodiment of the locking mechanism according to the present invention. Figure 10C shows a detailed perspective view of the first embodiment of the locking mechanism in the open, unlocked state. Figure 10D shows a detailed perspective view of the locking mechanism as shown in figure 10C in the closed, locked state. Figures 11A to 11D show a detailed perspective view of a second embodiment of the locking mechanism. In figure 11A, side walls of the container, the securing mechanism and the locking mechanism are shown, the securing mechanism being in its secure position, while the locking mechanism is in its open, unlocked state. Figure 11B is similar to figure 11A, however in figure 11B, the locking mechanism is shown in its closed, locked state. In figure 11C, a detailed perspective view is shown of the locking mechanism in its unlocked state, shown on the inside of the container. A part of the locking mechanism is connected to an extension of a first side wall. Figure 11D shows a detailed perspective view of the locking mechanism in its locked state, shown on the inside of the container. Figures 12A to 12D show a detailed exploded view of the second embodiment of the locking mechanism. In figure 12A, all elements of the second embodiment of the locking mechanism are shown apart from each other, in figure 12B, the elements positioned on the second side wall are mounted together, in figure 12C, all elements are mounted together showing the locking mechanism in its open, unlocked state, and in figure 12D, all elements are mounted together showing the locking mechanism in its closed, locked state. Figures 13A to 13D show a detailed view of an embodiment of the securing mechanism as shown in any one of the figures 6 to 10. In figure 13A, the elements of the securing mechanism are shown apart from each other, if figure 13B, a first view of the securing mechanism mounted together at one end is shown, in figure 13C, a second view of the securing mechanism mounted together at the one end is shown, and in figure 13D, all elements are mounted together, showing the securing mechanism in its assembled configuration. Figure 14A to 14D show the different folding steps of the side walls of the container between the extended configuration and the collapsed configuration. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include both singular and plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0034] The terms "comprising", "comprises" and "comprised of" as used herein are synonymous with "including", "includes" or "containing", "contains", and are inclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional, non-recited members, elements or method steps. The terms also encompass "consisting of" and "consisting essentially of", which enjoy well-established meanings in patent terminology.

[0035] The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers and fractions subsumed within the respective ranges, as well as the recited endpoints. This applies to numerical ranges irrespective of whether they are introduced by the expression "from... to..." or the expression "between... and..." or another expression.

[0036] The terms "about" or "approximately" as used herein when referring to a measurable value such as a parameter, an amount, a temporal duration, and the like, are meant to encompass variations of and from the specified value, such as variations of + / -10% or less, preferably + / -5% or less, more preferably + / -1% or less, and still more preferably + / -0.1% or less of and from the specified value, insofar such variations are appropriate to perform in the disclosed invention. It is to be understood that the value to which the modifier "about" or "approximately" refers is itself also specifically, and preferably, disclosed.

[0037] Whereas the terms "one or more" or "at least one", such as one or more members or at least one member of a group of members, is clear per se, by means of further exemplification, the term encompasses inter alia a reference to any one of said members, or to any two or more of said members, such as, e.g. any ≥3, ≥4, ≥5, ≥6 or ≥7 etc. of said members, and up to all said members. In another example, "one or more" or "at least one" may refer to 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or more.

[0038] The discussion of the background to the invention herein is included to explain the context of the invention. This is not to be taken as an admission that any of the material referred to was published, known, or part of the common general knowledge in any country as of the priority date of any of the claims.

[0039] Throughout this disclosure, various publications, patents and published patent specifications are referenced by an identifying citation. All documents cited in the present specification are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. In particular, the teachings or sections of such documents herein specifically referred to are incorporated by reference.

[0040] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in disclosing the invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. By means of further guidance, term definitions are included to better appreciate the teaching of the invention. When specific terms are defined in connection with a particular aspect of the invention or a particular embodiment of the invention, such connotation or meaning is meant to apply throughout this specification, i.e. also in the context of other aspects or embodiments of the invention, unless otherwise defined. For example, embodiments directed to products are also applicable to corresponding features of methods and uses.

[0041] In the following passages, different aspects or embodiments of the invention are defined in more detail. Each aspect or embodiment so defined may be combined with any other aspect(s) or embodiment(s) unless clearly indicated to the contrary. In particular, any feature indicated as being preferred or advantageous may be combined with any other feature or features indicated as being preferred or advantageous.

[0042] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment", "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to a person skilled in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments. Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art. For example, in the appended claims, alternative combinations of claimed embodiments are encompassed, as would be understood by those in the art.

[0043] The invention provides in a container comprising a base and four side walls, the container being configured to be placed into an extended and a collapsed configuration, in the extended configuration the container comprises a first storage capacity able to receive goods of a first dimension, in the collapsed configuration, the container comprises a second storage capacity to receive goods of a second dimension, wherein the first storage capacity is greater than the second storage capacity, wherein each one of the four side walls comprises a groove folding area, the groove folding area being configured to divide each side wall into a first side wall element below the groove folding area and a second side wall element above the groove folding area, and wherein at least two of the four side walls comprise at least two folding grooves in the groove folding area, the at least two folding grooves being substantially parallel to the base.

[0044] It is to be understood that the container is repeatably transitional between the extended and the collapsed state by application of external force.

[0045] The term "container" as used herein is well known to a skilled person and relates to a receptacle or enclosure that is configured to hold, store, and transport goods, materials, or substances. In addition thereto, generally containers are further designed to protect their contents from external elements, including but not limited to external elements such as moisture, air, and contaminants. Generally, containers are also designed to aid safe and efficient handling, storage, and transportation of their contents. They are commonly used in various settings, including but not limited to households, industries, laboratories, and commercial environments. The term "container" may be interchangeably used with any suitable synonym thereof including but not limited to "storage unit" ,"vessel", "holder", "canister", "box", "bin", "crate", "cask", "drum", "barrel", "tank", "bucket", "pot", "carton", "case", and "package".

[0046] "Storage capacity" as used herein refers to an amount of goods or materials that can be held, contained, or stored within a container. Storage capacity allows quantification of the volume, size, or number of items that can be accommodated in said container. Illustrative examples of synonymous terms include without limitation "storage volume", "(holding, load, or containment) capacity", and "storage limit". "Goods" as used in the context of the present disclosure refers to any material or content that may be placed inside (i.e. loaded into) a container as described herein. The nature of the goods or their state is not particularly limiting in the context of the present invention. Hence, envisaged are containers suitable for solid goods, semi-solid goods, fluid goods, gaseous goods, or any combination thereof.

[0047] The "base", or interchangeably "bottom", "baseplate", "support plate", or "floor" of a container typically refers to a bottom part or ground surface of a container which provides stability and support for the structure of said container. In a typical container configuration, goods are placed in the interior of the container on the base. The base structure aids in providing stability and support to the container. In embodiments wherein the container is of a rectangular or cuboid shape, the base and the side walls are preferably substantially straight walls. Optionally, the base may be reinforced by using reinforcing parts, preferably in a grid like pattern, more preferably in a grid like pattern wherein the grid is made up of straight lines in one, two or more directions. Alternatively the base comprises curved reinforcing parts. By means of illustration and not limitation, the reinforcing parts may be rigid rod-shaped or plank-shaped elements. Optionally, the reinforcing parts may be metal, hard plastic (i.e. any hard polymer), or wood rod-shaped or plank-shaped reinforcing parts. In some embodiments, the reinforcing parts comprises one or more reinforcing rods, preferably embedded into the base. Preferably, a reinforcement rod is a metal rod or plastic rod, more preferably a metal rod.

[0048] In some embodiments, the width of the base is at least 500 mm, more preferably at least 600 mm. more preferably at least 800 mm, even more preferably at least 1000 mm and most preferably at least 1100 mm.

[0049] In some embodiments, the width of the base is at least 500 mm to at most 2000 mm, more preferably at least 600 mm to at most 1800 mm. more preferably at least 800 mm to at most 1600 mm, even more preferably at least 1000 mm to at most 1500 mm and most preferably at least 1100 mm to at least 1400 mm.

[0050] In some embodiments, the length of the base is at least 700 mm, more preferably at least 800 mm. more preferably at least 900 mm, even more preferably at least 1100 mm and most preferably at least 1400 mm.

[0051] In some embodiments, the length of the base is at least 700 mm to at most 2000 mm, more preferably at least 800 mm to at most 1800 mm. more preferably at least 900 mm to at most 1600 mm, even more preferably at least 1100 mm to at most 1600 mm and most preferably at least 1400 mm to at least 1500 mm.

[0052] In some embodiments, the dimensions of the base are at least 600 mm to at most 1200 mm, by, at least 800 mm to at most 1500 mm.

[0053] In some embodiments, the dimensions of the base are 1190 mm by 1150 mm, 800 mm by 600 mm, 1000 mm by 600 mm, 1140 mm by 1140 mm, or 1480 by 1145 mm.

[0054] In the context of atypical rectangular or cuboid container such as preferentially envisaged by the present disclosure, the term "side wall" refers to the substantially vertical surfaces that extend from the base of the container to form the sides thereof and which enclose the space within the container. Depending on the configuration that is described for the container of the present invention, the (complete) side wall may be substantially vertical compared to the base (i.e. perpendicular to the base) in e.g. the extended configuration, or only a first side wall element below the groove folding area may be substantially vertical compared to the base in e.g. the collapsed configuration. When referring to a first side wall element below the groove folding area, it is to be appreciated that reference is made to the side wall element proximal to the base of the container. Vice versa, when referring to a second side wall element above the groove folding area, it is to be appreciated that reference is made to the side wall element distal to the base of the container.

[0055] Preferably, the base comprises polymer, preferably polypropylene (PP) and / or polyethylene, more preferably PP. Preferably; the container top lid comprises polymer, preferably polypropylene (PP) and / or polyethylene, more preferably PP. Preferably the side walls comprise polymer, preferably polypropylene (PP), more preferably PP which comprises talc.

[0056] In some embodiments, the foldable container is made at least partially, preferably entirely from a polymer, preferably a synthetic polymer, more preferably polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyvinylchloride (PVC), polystyrene (PS), polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), and / or polylactic acid (PLA). This makes it possible to use the foldable container in multi way applications.

[0057] The container of the present invention is able to at least adopt two distinct configurations, an "extended configuration" and a "collapsed configuration". The extended configuration is used herein to indicate a container configuration characterised by a substantial vertical position of all side walls which accommodates a relatively large storage capacity. The collapsed configuration is used herein to indicate a container configuration characterised by a substantial vertical position of the first side wall elements below the groove folding area and a substantially horizontal position of the second wall elements above the groove folding area. In some embodiments, the collapsed state has a flattened form, optionally rectangular, such as oblong or square. Illustrative alternative terms that may be used when referring to the extended configurations include without limitation "expanded", "unfolded", "expanded", "deployed", "open", and "not-collapsed". Illustrative alternative terms that may be used when referring to the collapsed configuration include without limitation "folded", "compressed", "compacted", "closed", and "minimized". "Groove folding area" as used herein refers to a particular portion, section, or zone, of one or more side walls configured to accommodate folding means such as folding grooves which facilitate folding a portion of said side walls. The function of the groove folding area typically relates to providing a guided folding mechanism, in the present context one or more folding grooves. A skilled person appreciates that the folding groove area and folding grooves defined herein extend over the whole or essentially the whole of the width of the side wall. Likewise, it is possible to have multiple folding groove areas distributed along a side wall at different heights above the base to allow a greater versatility on how the container is folded and the size and dimensions of the interior of the container is created when in the collapsed configuration.

[0058] Each side wall of the container described herein comprises a groove folding area, wherein at least two side walls comprise a groove folding area that comprises at least two folding grooves. In certain embodiments, two adjacent side walls comprise a groove folding area that comprises at least two folding grooves. In alternative embodiments, two opposed side walls comprise a groove folding area that comprises at least two folding grooves. In yet alternative embodiments, three of the four side walls comprise a groove folding area that comprises at least two folding grooves. In preferred embodiments, all four side walls comprise a groove folding area that comprises at least two folding grooves. Preferred side walls in the context of the present invention are formed as a single component (i.e. one side wall is made of one piece of material). However, a combination of two physically distinct side wall elements separated by a connecting element such as e.g. one or more hinges or other connecting elements which allow rotation of one element of the side wall around the connecting element may be envisaged. The connecting element may in such an embodiment be considered to have the same function as a groove in the groove folding area. The position (i.e. height) of the groove folding area is not particularly limiting for the invention and may be located on a height that is dependent on the particular goods to be stored, the height of transport means, the height of storage racks, etc. Hence, the groove folding area may be positioned at a height from the base that is 1 / 25, 1 / 20, 1 / 18, 1 / 16, 1 / 15, 1 / 14, 1 / 12, 1 / 10, 1 / 8, 1 / 6, 1 / 5, 1 / 4, 1 / 3, 1 / 2 the height of the side wall in an extended configuration of the container. Alternatively, the groove folding area may be positioned at a height from the top of the side wall that is 1 / 25, 1 / 20, 1 / 18, 1 / 16, 1 / 15, 1 / 14, 1 / 12, 1 / 10, 1 / 8, 1 / 6, 1 / 5, 1 / 4, 1 / 3, 1 / 2 the height of the side wall in an extended configuration of the container. Multiple groove folding areas may be positioned at the same side wall, at a height from the base from that is one of the following: at 1 / 25, 1 / 20, 1 / 18, 1 / 16, 1 / 15, 1 / 14, 1 / 12, 1 / 10, 1 / 8, 1 / 6, 1 / 5, 1 / 4, 1 / 3, 1 / 2 the height of the side wall when the side wall is in an extended configuration of the container. When multiple groove folding areas are present, it is possible to choose the available space which remains in the container after folding the container from its extended configuration to its folded configuration. Depending on the need, it is thus possible to provide for a container with specific dimensions allowing multiple containers to be stacked in a more efficient and ecological manner on e.g. a truck, thus reducing the number of trucks needed for transportation.

[0059] Similarly, the position (i.e. height) of the folding grooves is not particularly limiting for the invention and may be located on a height that is dependent on the particular goods to be stored, the height of transport means, the height of storage racks, etc. Hence, when a groove folding area comprises of two grooves, the centre between the two folding grooves may be positioned at a height from the base that is 1 / 25, 1 / 20, 1 / 18, 1 / 16, 1 / 15, 1 / 14, 1 / 12, 1 / 10, 1 / 8, 1 / 6, 1 / 5, 1 / 4, 1 / 3, 1 / 2 the height of the side wall in an extended configuration of the container. Alternatively and / or in combination with the foregoing, the centre between the folding grooves may be positioned at a height from the top of the side wall that is 1 / 25, 1 / 20, 1 / 18, 1 / 16, 1 / 15, 1 / 14, 1 / 12, 1 / 10, 1 / 8, 1 / 6, 1 / 5, 1 / 4, 1 / 3, 1 / 2 the height of the side wall in an extended configuration of the container. If only one groove is present in a groove folding area in a side wall, the groove may be positioned at a height from the base that is 1 / 25, 1 / 20, 1 / 18, 1 / 16, 1 / 15, 1 / 14, 1 / 12, 1 / 10, 1 / 8, 1 / 6, 1 / 5, 1 / 4, 1 / 3, 1 / 2 the height of the side wall in an extended configuration of the container.

[0060] The distance between the at least two folding grooves in the groove folding area is not limiting for the invention. However, a skilled person appreciates that in order to function in an optimal manner and for the container to achieve all beneficial technical effect listed throughout the present disclosure the two folding grooves should be positioned at a distance such that no sizeable third side wall element is generated upon folding the container in the collapsed configuration. The optimal distance between the at least two folding grooves is dependent on the thickness of the side walls. Optionally, the distance between the folding grooves is about the thickness of a side wall, or about the thickness of two side walls, or the thickness of about three side walls, or about the thickness of about four side walls. In certain embodiments, the distance between the at least two folding grooves in the distinct side walls differ for each side wall of the container and the container can be folded according to an optimal folding procedure (i.e. first folding (a) side wall(s) with relatively little space between the at least two folding grooves and subsequently folding (a) side wall(s) with relatively much space between the at least two folding grooves). In alternative embodiments, two adjacent or two opposing side walls have a first distance between the at least two folding grooves, and the other two adjacent or other two opposing side walls have a second distance between the at least two folding grooves.

[0061] The particulars of the folding grooves are not limiting for the context of the present invention and refer to any shape which facilitates manipulation of the side wall by folding. Hence, illustrative examples of folding grooves envisaged by the present disclosure include without limitation V-folding grooves, U-folding grooves, hinge folding grooves, score folding grooves, living hinge folding grooves, accordion folding grooves, double score folding grooves, W-folding grooves, or any combination thereof. A skilled person appreciates that the optimal type of folding grooves will depend inter alia on the material of the container. Particularly preferred folding grooves for containers made from a polymer material are V-folding grooves, U-folding grooves, and score folding grooves. V-folding grooves are typically V-shaped grooves incising the side wall at an angle of between about 30° and 120°, preferably at an angle of between about 60° and 100°, preferably at an angle of about 90°. U-folding grooves are typically U-shaped with a round bottom. Score grooves are typically formed by a shallow cut or indentation. Optionally, at the deepest point of indentation the groove penetrates the thickness of the side wall by about 10% or more, preferably by about 20% or more, preferably by about 30% or more, preferably by about 40% or more, preferably by about 50% or more, preferably by about 50% or more, preferably by about 60% or more, preferably by about 70% or more, preferably by about 80% or more, preferably by about 90% or more. Optionally, the deepest point of indentation the groove penetrates the thickness of the side wall from about 10% to about 90%, preferably from about 20% to about 80%, preferably from about 30% to about 70%, preferably from about 40% to about 60%, preferably about 50%.

[0062] Preferably, the container is receptive to a top lid in the extended or collapsed configuration. More preferably, the container is receptive to a top lid in both the extended and collapsed configuration. A top lid may serve different purposes, for example ensuring proper sealing of the container to protect the goods or securing the goods from theft. Numerous top lids have been described throughout the art and include without limitation a snap-on lid, a clamshell lid, a press-on lid, and a flip-flop lid. Optionally, the container is configured to comprise a sealing mechanism between the side walls and the top lid, such as but not limited to a rim gasket, snap tabs or snap closure, a compression seal, a latch, interlocking rims, or any combination thereof. Preferably, the top lid has substantially the same shape as the base of the container. Optionally, corner pieces may assist in providing a fit between the top lid and the side of the container. In certain embodiments, said corner pieces are an integral component of the top lid. In alternative embodiments, said corner pieces are mountable pieces on the corners of the side walls. Further design considerations of the top lid are not limiting for the invention. Hence, the top lid may be a flat wall, or a wall that comprises further recesses or indented portions to facilitate transport and / or stacking of the container to a second container of the same type, or a second container of a type wherein the lower portion is compatible for stacking on the top lid of the container. Optionally, the top lid may contain a translucent element to facilitate visual inspection of the contents of the container. In some embodiments, the container is covered by the top lid.

[0063] Preferably, the combination of the folding grooves are configured to position the first and the second side wall element such that the side wall elements form an angle α in the extended configuration of about 180° and / or the combination of the folding grooves are configured to position the first and the second side wall element such that the side wall elements forms an angle α in the collapsed configuration of about 90°. A skilled person appreciates that angle α should be measured as the angle formed on the interior of the container. Thus, it is to be appreciated that in the extended configuration, both side wall elements of the side walls of the container are positioned substantially perpendicular to the base and wherein in the collapsed configuration at least the second side wall elements of the side walls of the container are positioned substantially parallel to the base, and to the interior of the container (i.e. inward-folding of the second wall elements of the side walls).

[0064] Optionally, the groove folding area and / or the folding grooves of opposing side walls are located on the same height. Alternatively, the groove folding area and / or the folding grooves of adjacent side walls are located on the same height. Yet alternatively, the groove folding area and / or the folding grooves of all four side walls are located on the same height. Optionally, the groove folding area and / or the folding grooves of opposing side walls are located on a different height. Alternatively, the groove folding area and / or the folding grooves of adjacent side walls are located on a different height. Yet alternatively, the groove folding area and / or the folding grooves of all four side walls are located on a different height. Optionally, the lower folding groove of opposing side walls is located on the same height and the upper folding groove of opposing side walls is located on a different height. Optionally, the lower folding groove of adjacent side walls is located on the same height and the upper folding groove of adjacent side walls is located on a different height. Optionally, the lower folding groove of all side walls is located on the same height and the upper folding groove of all side walls is located on a different height. Optionally, the upper folding groove of opposing side walls is located on the same height and the lower folding groove of opposing side walls is located on a different height. Optionally, the upper folding groove of adjacent side walls is located on the same height and the lower folding groove of adjacent side walls is located on a different height. Optionally, the upper folding groove of all side walls is located on the same height and the lower folding groove of all side walls is located on a different height. Optionally, all folding grooves of all four side walls are located on different heights.

[0065] As described above, the exact position of the folding groove area is not particularly limiting for the invention. Thus, the folding groove area may be located in the side wall such that the collapsed configuration comprises a storage capacity that is about 1 / 2 or less, preferably about 1 / 3 or less, preferably about 1 / 4 or less, preferably about 1 / 5 or less, preferably about 1 / 6 or less, preferably about 1 / 7 or less, preferably about 1 / 8 or less, preferably about 1 / 9 or less, preferably about 1 / 10 or less, preferably about 1 / 12 or less, preferably about 1 / 15 or less, preferably about 1 / 20 or less, of the storage capacity in the extended configuration.

[0066] A further advantage of the invention is that the physical integrity of the side walls is maintained even after repeatably folding the container from the extended configuration to the collapsed configuration and vice versa. Hence, the container envisaged in the present disclosure is not a disposable, one time use type of container. A further advantage of maintaining the physical integrity of the side walls is that these side walls effectively remain wind and water proof, without a necessity for further design consideration to obtain these characteristics. In addition, upon manufacturing the side walls may be manufactured from a single piece of material of an appropriate dimension and shape and introducing a folding groove area in said wall.

[0067] Preferably, the container comprises at least two securing mechanisms configured to fixate the side walls of the container when the container is in the extended configuration. The specific characteristics of the securing mechanism is not particularly limiting for the invention.

[0068] "Securing mechanism" as used throughout the present disclosure refers to any system, device, tool, or component having as a function to hold the side walls of the container described herein fixated in place, i.e. fixate their relative position and orientation to each other. Hence, a securing mechanism ensures that the side walls remain securely attached to and aligned with each other, maintaining the structural integrity and shape of the container as a whole. The securing mechanism prevents the side walls from collapsing, shifting, or becoming detached when the container is used. Suitable securing mechanisms include without limitation interlocking tabs, latches, hinges with locking features, clips, or any fastener that provides a robust physical interaction between the side walls of the container. The material of the securing mechanism is not limiting for the invention.

[0069] Preferably a single securing mechanism fixates the relative position of two adjacent side walls vis-à-vis each other. More preferably, the container comprises two opposing side walls each equipped with two securing mechanisms on each side end of said walls to fixate the relative position of all side walls vis-à-vis each other. In certain embodiments, securing mechanisms are provided on two opposing side walls at different heights, such as near the top, the middle, or even the bottom of the side wall. A skilled person appreciates that any such combination is envisaged by the present disclosure.

[0070] A preferred securing mechanism in the context of the present invention comprises a first leg positioned on a first side of a side wall, a second leg positioned on a second side of the side wall, and a rotating means positioned through an opening in the side wall, the rotating means connecting a first end of the first leg with a first end of the second leg. Preferably, a connecting leg connecting a second end of the first leg with a second end of the second leg. In this case, a recess is foreseen in the neighbouring side wall to allow the securing mechanism to pivot from an upright vertical position away from the recess to a horizontal position and into the recess of the neighbouring side wall. "Recess" as used throughout the present disclosure refers to any kind of opening or cut-out in the neighbouring or adjacent side wall of the side wall which holds the securing mechanism. The recess is preferably foreseen in the top of the neighbouring side wall and towards its side edge.

[0071] Preferably a single securing mechanism fixates the relative position of two adjacent side walls vis-à-vis each other by rotating the securing mechanism such that one of the legs is placed inside the recess and the connecting leg is positioned on the outside of the side walls. More preferably, the container comprises a first set of two opposing side walls each equipped with two securing mechanisms on each side end of said side walls, and a second set of two opposing side walls each equipped with two recesses on each side end of the said side walls to fixate the relative position of all side walls vis-à-vis each other.

[0072] A preferred securing mechanism in the context of the present invention comprises a first leg positioned on a first side of a side wall, a second leg positioned on a second side of the side wall, a rotating means positioned through an opening in the side wall, the rotating means connecting a first end of the first leg with a first end of the second leg, a connecting leg connecting a second end of the first leg with a second end of the second leg, and a recess in a neighbouring side wall of the side wall which holds the securing mechanism.

[0073] Although the above described embodiments of the securing mechanism will provide for a secure connection between two neighbouring side walls, it may be preferable to add an extension to the side wall holding the recess having as a function to increase the clamping force of the securing mechanism on the side walls. "Extension" as used throughout the present disclosure refers to any kind of element which may be positioned in between the side wall holding the securing mechanism and the inner leg of the securing mechanism facing the interior of the container. Such an extension may be foreseen over the entire length of the edge of the side wall, or it may be limited to the area where the securing mechanism is located on the neighbouring side wall. The extension may be formed by bending the edge of the side wall under 90° or may be a separate element connected to the side wall such that the extension will be located towards the interior of the container when the container is in its extended configuration. The material of the extension is not limiting for the invention, but it may be preferred to use the same material of the side walls to enhance the rigidity of the entire side wall. Preferably, such an extension is foreseen on each side edge of the side wall facing the neighbouring side wall.

[0074] "Locking mechanism" as used throughout the present disclosure refers to any system, device, tool, or component having as a function to lock the side walls of the container described herein in place, i.e. lock their relative position and orientation to each other and prevent any movement from a side wall relative to a neighbouring side wall. Hence, a locking mechanism ensures that the side walls remain securely locked to and aligned with each other, maintaining the structural integrity and shape of the container as a whole. As is the case with the securing mechanism, the locking mechanism equally prevents the side walls from collapsing, shifting, or becoming unintendedly detached when the container is in use. Suitable locking mechanisms include without limitation interlocking tabs, rotating latches, clips, or any fastener that provides a robust physical interaction between the side walls of the container. The material of the securing mechanism is not limiting for the invention.

[0075] Preferably a single locking mechanism fixates and locks the relative position of two adjacent side walls vis-à-vis each other. More preferably, the container comprises two opposing side walls each equipped with two locking mechanisms on each side end of said side walls to fixate the relative position of all side walls vis-à-vis each other. Preferably, the locking mechanisms are positioned a distance below the top edge of the side wall. In certain embodiments, locking mechanisms are provided on two opposing side walls at different heights, such as closer to the top, the middle, or even the bottom of the side wall. A skilled person appreciates that any such combination is envisaged by the present disclosure.

[0076] A first preferred locking mechanism in the context of the present invention comprises a first element connected directly or indirectly to a first side wall and a second element connected directly or indirectly to a second, neighbouring side wall. When the first element and second element are inserted into one another, one element may rotate compared to the other, thus effectively locking one element with respect to the other element. The two side walls are locked to each other and unable to move away from one another.

[0077] A second preferred locking mechanism in the context of the present invention comprises a first element connected directly or indirectly to a first side wall and a second element connected directly or indirectly to a second, neighbouring side wall. The first element has a slot and a blocking element working together with the slot to effectively receive and block a protruding locking element from the second element. When the second element is inserted into the first element, the second element may rotate compared to the first element, thus effectively locking the protruding element and thus the second element with respect to the first element. The two side walls are locked to each other and hence unable to move away from one another.

[0078] Both the first and second preferred locking mechanisms may have a handle attached to the outer shell element of the first element to allow easy manipulation of the locking mechanisms.

[0079] The container of the present invention is preferably foreseen with reinforcement elements such as reinforcement corners and reinforcement slats. "Reinforcement elements" as used throughout the present disclosures refers to any system or element, device or component having as a function to stabilise and / or reinforce the container described herein and to securely connect the lower part of each side wall of the container to the base of the container. Further, such reinforcement elements may be configured to extend above the side walls when the container is in its folded configuration, thus allowing the top lid to be placed above the folded side walls and thus effectively shielding these side walls.

[0080] Optionally, one or more side walls are characterised by at least one translucent element to facilitate visual inspection of the contents of the container in the extended and / or collapsed configuration. The at least one translucent element of the side wall(s) may be positioned in the first side wall element, the second side wall element, or a combination thereof.

[0081] In some embodiments, one or more access flaps are present in one or more side walls. Especially for larger foldable container sizes, these access flaps may be used for better access to goods inside the foldable container. In some embodiments, the sidewalls may comprise openings and / or cut-outs.

[0082] Optionally, one or more of the side walls may be provided with a further foldable wall that can be configured either substantially parallel to the base or substantially parallel to the side wall(s) in the extended configuration of the container. Such further foldable walls, preferably connected to the inner side of the side wall with a hinge may act as a further base, or partial base to store goods on a further height. Upon folding of the side walls to place the container in a collapsed configuration, the thickness of the further foldable wall(s) are also mitigated by the two folding grooves.

[0083] In some embodiments, the container top lid comprises a handle, preferably a handle attached to or in the edge, preferably the front side edge. As the arc made during opening and closing can be high, a handle on top of the container cover is often not accessible for the operator during the opening or closing manoeuvre. A handle in the front edge is more accessible.

[0084] The term "dismountable" refers to the attachment between elements being temporary but stable. The elements can be detached by the application of force.

[0085] While the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications, and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing description. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as follows in the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims. The herein disclosed aspects and embodiments of the invention are further supported by the following non-limiting examples.EXAMPLES

[0086] Figure 1A shows a perspective view of a container 1 foreseen with a top lid 40 placed on a loading pallet 150 according to the present invention. The container 1 being in its extended configuration having a first storage capacity 20. The container 1 comprises a base 10 and four side walls in total, of which two side walls 12, 14 are visible in figure 1. Dotted lines are shown on the side walls 12, 14, which are parallel to the base 10, the dotted lines represent the folding grooves 36, 38. Both folding grooves 36, 38 are located in their respective groove folding area 30 and are positioned substantially parallel to the base 10. Each side wall 12, 14 is foreseen with such a groove folding area 30. The first side wall 12 has a groove folding area 30 in which the first groove 36 and the second groove 38 are spaced apart a first certain distance from each other. The second side wall 14 has a groove folding area 30 in which the first groove 36 and second groove 38 are space apart a second certain distance from each other. The first distance between the grooves on the first side wall 12 being larger than the second distance between the grooves on the second side wall 14. Further, the upper groove 36 of the first side wall 12 is positioned lower than the lower groove 38 of the second side wall 14, such that the groove folding area 30 of the first side wall 12 is positioned lower than the groove folding area 30 of the second side wall 14. Each side wall 12, 14, 16, 18 is divided into a first side wall element 32 positioned below its respective groove folding area 30, and a second side wall element 34 which is positioned above its respective groove folding area 30.

[0087] Each of the corners of the container 1 are foreseen with a reinforcement elements such as a reinforcement corner 160. The reinforcement corners 160 allow the side walls 12, 14, 16, 18 to be connected to the base 10 in a secure and safe manner. The reinforcement corner 160 of the embodiment shown in figure 1A comprises a first part which can be connected with the first side wall element 32 of the first side wall 12, a second part which can be connected with the first side wall element of the second side wall 14, and a rounded edge placed between the first and second part. The first part, second part and rounded edge are preferably made as a single piece but optionally may be formed of separate parts which are connected to each other via connecting means to form a reinforcement corner 160. The first part and the second part of the reinforcement corner 160 may have different dimensions or may be similar in shape. In figure 1A, the second part of the reinforcement corner 160 has as an L-shape form, while the first part is formed as a rectangle. The L-shaped form of the second part of the reinforcement corner 160 facilitates an easy connection with the base 10 of the container. Multiple holes 170 are foreseen in the reinforcement corners 160 to allow a securing element such as a bolt or rivet to go through the hole 170 and connect the reinforcement corner 160 with the first side wall element 32 of the side wall 12, 14, 16, 18 and / or the base 10. The base 10 may thus be connected to the reinforcement corners 160 and indirectly to the side walls 12, 14, 16, 18. Between two adjacent reinforcement corners 160, an additional reinforcement bar 180 may be present to allow the base to be securely kept in place when installed inside the container 1. Such reinforcement bar 180 may run from one reinforcement corner 160 to the other reinforcement corner 160 or may have a length shorter than the entire length needed to bridge the distance from one reinforcement corner 160 to the next reinforcement corner 160. Figure 1A further shows two securing mechanisms 50, 50' which are pivotably connected to the second side wall 14. The two securing mechanisms 50, 50' are in its securing position, whereby the securing mechanism is cooperating with the first side wall 12 and third side wall 16 to keep the side walls in an upright and extended position. The securing mechanisms 50, 50' are installed close to the top edge 62 of the side wall 14 such that the top of the securing mechanism can pivot around the corner of the side wall 14. Further, two locking mechanisms 90, 90' are shown which are able to lock or unlock the first side wall 12 with the second side wall 14, and the second side wall 14 with the third side wall 16. In figure 1A, the container 1 is thus shown with securing mechanisms 50, 50' near the top edge 62 of the side walls 12, 14, and locking mechanisms 90, 90' substantially halfway from the top edge 62 of the side walls 12, 14. Also, two locking mechanisms 100, 100' are shown. These locking mechanisms 100, 100' are provided on the second 14 and fourth 18 side wall and will cooperate with a counter element which is foreseen on extensions 7 of the first 12 and third 16 side walls.

[0088] Although not shown, the side walls 12, 14, 16, 18 may comprise handles or handle opening to allow a user to easily manipulate the side walls when bringing the container and thus the side walls from their extended configuration to their collapsed configuration and vice versa. These handles may be connected to the side wall as a separate piece, or may be formed together with the wall as a single plastic injection part. Additionally, it is possible to use these handles, or openings provided in these handles to attach straps to or through the openings in the handles. As such, straps can be placed around the circumference of the container 1 and container top lid 40 to secure the container top lid 40 to the container 1.

[0089] The container top lid 40 is foreseen with recesses 41 to allow a user to easily manipulate the top lid 40 when opening or closing the container 1 with the top lid 40. Although recesses 41 are shown in figure 1A, openings or cut-outs are likewise possible, although not preferred since such openings will still allow dust, water, debris or other unwanted material to enter the container 1 when the lid 40 is positioned on top of the container 1.

[0090] Figure 1B shows a perspective top view of the container 1 foreseen with a top lid 40 placed on a loading pallet 150, the container 1 as shown in figure 1B is in its collapsed configuration and has a second storage capacity 22 which is smaller than the first storage capacity 20 when the container 1 was in its extended configuration. As is clear from figure 1B, the side walls 12, 14, 16, 18 are folded inwardly such that the second side wall elements 34 of each side wall 12, 14, 16, 18, are now placed substantially parallel to the base 10 and positioned below the reinforcement corners 160. The first side wall elements 32 of each side wall 12, 14, 16, 18 remains in its upright position and still functions as a side wall of the collapsed container 1, thus effectively shielding and securing items which are placed and stored inside the container 1 before moving the side walls 12, 14, 16, 18 of the container 1 from the extended configuration to the collapsed configuration.

[0091] Figure 2 shows a perspective top view of the container 1 in its extended configuration as shown in figure 1A without the top lid 40 installed on top of the container 1 to allow a view inside the container 1. Further, figure 2 represents a container with only a securing mechanism near the top edge 62 of the side wall. The reinforcement corners 160 of the container 1 as shown in figure 2 are slightly different than the reinforcement corners 160 of the container 1 as shown in figure 1A. The reinforcement corners 160 as shown in figure 2 have a first part which is formed as a square, while the second part of the reinforcement corner 160 has as a trapeze shaped form. Further, the securing mechanisms 50, 50', 51, 51' are positioned such that the end opposite from the rotating end is extending over the side edges 64, 68 of the side wall when positioned in the securing position. In order for the securing mechanisms 50, 50', 51, 51' to be able to extend over the corner and to the side edge of the side wall, a recess 75 is foreseen in the neighbouring side wall, thus allowing the movement of the inner leg of the securing mechanism 50, 50', 51, 51' inside this recess 75. Although not shown, the securing mechanisms 50, 50', 51, 51' may not reach all the way to the side edge 64, 68 of the side wall when positioned in the securing position. Such securing mechanisms may thus have a first leg 52 positioned on the outer surface of the side wall to which they are connected, a second leg 54 positioned on the inner surface of the side wall to which they are connected, and a rotating means 53, 55 positioned through an opening 60 in the side wall. Securing two neighbouring side walls with each other occurs by moving the securing mechanism from an uprightly, generally vertical and free position to a generally horizontal and securing position, thus clamping the two neighbouring side walls 12, 14; 14, 16; 16, 18; 18, 12 together.

[0092] Figure 3 shows a cross section of the container 1 in its collapsed configuration as shown in figure 1B. All four side walls 12, 14, 16, 18 are folded inwardly such that a smaller inner storage capacity 22 is created by the vertically erected first side wall elements 32 of each of the side walls 12, 14, 16, 18 and the base 10. The base 10 may be placed on top of a loading pallet 150 or may form an integral part therewith. Reinforcement corners 160 are placed on the corners of the loading pallet 150 to facilitate the connection of the base 10 with the loading pallet 150 and to connect the side walls 12, 14, 16, 18 with the base 10 and indirectly to the loading pallet 150. Each reinforcement corner 160 is at its bottom end foreseen with a U-shaped bracket 162. The U-shaped bracket 162 is configured to receive an edge of the side wall 12, 14, 16, 18, more particularly the edge of the first side wall element 32. When the edge of the first side wall element 32 is placed inside the U-shaped bracket 162, the edge of the first side wall element 32 is unable to slide away from the reinforcement corner 160. Although not visible on figure 3, a connecting element such as a bolt or a rivet is used to fixedly connect the first side wall element 32 to the reinforcement corner 160. Therefore, holes 170 are foreseen in the reinforcement corners 160 to allow e.g. a rivet to go through the hole 170 and the first side wall element 32 thus securing the first side wall element 32 and the side wall itself to the reinforcement corner 160 and thus the base 10 and the loading pallet 150. The reinforcement corners 160 are configured such that their top surface is a greater distance d 1 above the base 10 than the distance d 2 between the surface of the second side wall element 34 of the upper most side wall 18 when the container 1 is in its folded configuration and the base 10. The container top lid 40 can be placed on top of these reinforcement corners 160 such that, once the top lid 40 is positioned on top of the reinforcement corners 160, the top lid 40 will shield the underlaying elements such as the side walls 12, 14, 16, 18 and any of the goods that are placed into the inner storage space 22 of the container 1. From figure 3, it is clear that the side walls 12, 14, 16, 18 are folded inwardly one after the other so that the second side wall element 34 of the next folded side wall will lay above the second side wall element 34 of the previously folded side wall. In figure 3, the first side wall 12 is folded inwardly first. The second side wall element 34 of the first side wall 12 thus being the closest to the base 10 of the container 1. The second side wall element 34 of the first side wall 12 being substantially parallel to the base 10 when completely folded inwardly. The area 22 below this second side wall element 34 of the first side wall 12 defines the available space in which goods can be placed after bringing all the side walls to their inwardly folded configuration. The third side wall 16 is positioned above the first side wall 12, such that the second side wall element 34 of the third side wall 16 lays directly above the second side wall element 34 of the first side wall 12. The second side wall element 34 being substantially parallel to the base 10 and to the second side wall element 34 of the first side wall 12 when completely folded inwardly. Both the first 12 and third 16 side walls 64, 68 are foreseen with extensions 70, 72. The extensions 70, 72 are formed by folding the respective side edges 64, 68 of the first 12 and third 16 side walls over about 90°. Alternatively, an additional extension such as an L-shaped slat may be connected to the inner wall of the first 12 and third 16 side walls at each side edge 64, 68 as to form a similar extension as when the edges would be folded inwardly over about 90°.

[0093] The second side wall 14 is positioned above the first 12 and third 16 side wall, the second side wall element 34 of the second side wall 14 laying directly above the second side wall element 34 of the third side wall 16. The second side wall element 34 of the third side wall 16 is positioned in between the second side wall element 34 of the first side wall 12 and the second side wall element 34 of the second side wall 14. The second side wall element 34 of the second side wall 14 being substantially parallel to the base 10, to the second side wall element 34 of the first side wall 12 and to the second side wall element 34 of the third side wall 16 when completely folded inwardly. As is clear from figure 3, the second side wall 14 is foreseen with grooves 36, 38, the second side wall element 34 of the second side wall 14 being folded inwardly around the first groove 36 as to close the gap inside the groove 36. The second groove 38 remains in its original open state, thus still showing the gap in the groove 38. By folding the second side wall element 34 at the location of the groove 36, the second side wall element 34 will now be positioned at an angle α of about 90° with respect to the first side wall element 32 and a distance d 3 above the base 10.

[0094] Finally, the fourth side wall 18 is positioned above the first 12, third 16 and second 14 side wall, the second side wall element 34 of the fourth side wall 18 laying directly above the second side wall element 34 of the second side wall 14. The second side wall element 34 of the second side wall 14 is positioned in between the second side wall element 34 of the third side wall 16 and the second side wall element 34 of the fourth side wall 18. The second side wall element 34 of the fourth side wall 18 being substantially parallel to the base 10, to the second side wall element 34 of the first side wall 12, to the second side wall element 34 of the third side wall 16, and to the second side wall element 34 of the second side wall 14 when completely folded inwardly. The fourth side wall 18 is foreseen with grooves 36, 38 and the second side wall element 34 of the second side wall 18 being folded inwardly around the second groove 38 as to close the gap inside the groove 38. The groove 36 remains in its original open state, thus still showing the gap in the groove 36. By folding the second side wall element 34 at the location of the groove 38, the second side wall element 34 will now be positioned at an angle α of about 90° with respect to the first side wall element 32 and a distance d 2 above the base 10. The distance d 2 being greater than the distance d 3 .

[0095] Both the second 14 and fourth 18 side walls are foreseen with securing mechanisms 50, 51. The securing mechanisms 50, 51 as shown in figure 3 comprises a first leg 52 positioned on a first, outer surface of the side wall 14, 18, a second leg 54 positioned on a second, inner surface of the side wall 14, 18 and a rotating connecting means 53, 55, connecting the first leg 52 with the second leg 54 through an opening in the side wall 14, 18.

[0096] Figure 4A shows a perspective view of the side walls 14, 18 of the container 1. The side wall being position in a fully extended and upright position such that the first side wall element 32 and the second side wall element 34 are positioned substantially in line with each other and form an angle α of about 180°. A groove folding area 30 is foreseen in the side wall, thus dividing the side wall into a first side wall element 32 located below the groove folding area 30 and a second side wall element 34 located above the groove folding area 30. The groove folding area 30 is formed by a first groove 36 and a second groove 38, the first groove 36 being positioned below the second groove 38, such that the first groove 36 connects with the first side wall element 32 and the second groove 38 connects with the second side wall element 34. As shown in figure 4A, both grooves 36, 38 are substantially parallel to the top 62 and bottom 66 edge of the side wall. Although a minimal distance between the grooves 36, 38 is present in the embodiment as shown in figure 4A, it may be possible to foresee a greater distance between these grooves 36, 38 such that some more clearance is given between the two grooves 36, 38 and the space between the second side wall element 34 of the second side wall 14 and the second side wall 34 of the fourth side wall 18 can be positioned at a greater distance from each other when the side walls 14, 18 are in the inwardly folded configuration.

[0097] In figure 4A, it is shown that for the second 14 and fourth 18 side wall, the width of the first side wall element 32 is smaller than the width of the second side wall element 34 and an indentation is thus foreseen at the location of the groove folding area 30.

[0098] Near the top edge 62 of the side wall 14, 18, two holes 60 are foreseen, in particular a hole 60 on each side edge 64, 68 of the side wall 14, 18. The holes 60 are configured to facilitate the mounting of the securing mechanism 50, 50', 51, 51' to the side walls 14, 18.

[0099] In figure 4B, a perspective view of the side walls 12 and 16 of the container 1 are shown. Similar to the side walls 14, 18, a groove folding area 30 is foreseen, formed by a first groove 38 and a second groove 38, the first groove 36 being positioned below the second groove 38, such that the first groove 36 connects with the first side wall element 32 and the second groove 38 connects with the second side wall element 34. As shown in figure 4B, both grooves 36, 38 are substantially parallel to the top 62 and bottom 66 edge of the side wall. The distance between the grooves 36, 38 as shown in figure 4B, has a greater distance between the grooves 36, 38 compared to the distance provided in the side wall of figure 4A. Hence, a different clearance is given between the two grooves 36, 38 and the space between the second side wall element 34 of the side wall and the base 10 can thus vary depending on the positions of these grooves;.

[0100] In figure 4B, it is shown that for the first 12 and third 16 side wall, the width of the first side wall element 32 is smaller than the width of the second side wall element 34 and an indentation is thus foreseen at the location of the groove folding area 30. The indentations of the first 12 and third 16 side walls are greater than the indentations of the second 14 and fourth 18 side walls.

[0101] Further, extension 70, 72 are foreseen on the first 12 and third 16 side walls by folding an extra width of the second side wall element 34 inwardly over about 90°. Such extensions 70, 72 foreseen on the first 12 and third 16 side wall will allow the side edges 64, 68 of the second 14 and fourth 18 side walls to be in close contact with the side edges 64', 68' of the first 12 and third 16 side wall when the side walls 12, 14, 16, 18 of the container 1 are in the extended configuration.

[0102] Figures 5A and 5B show a side view of the second side wall 14 an fourth side wall 18 as shown in figure 4. In figure 5A, the side wall 14, 18 is folded at the second groove 38 located in the groove folding area 30, thus dividing the side wall 14, 18 into a first side wall element 32 located below the groove folding area 30 and remaining in an upright, vertical position, and a second side wall element 34 above the groove folding area 30 such that the second side wall element 34 is now positioned horizontally. When folding the second side wall element 34 around the groove 38, the gap in the groove 38 is effectively closed and due to the shape of the gap in the groove 38, the second side wall element 34 can form an angle α of about 90°, preferably 90°, with the first side wall element 32 when the gap in the groove 38 is closed.

[0103] In figure 5B, the side wall 14, 18 is folded at a first groove 36 located in the groove folding area 30, thus dividing the side wall 14, 18 into a first side wall element 32 located below the groove folding area 30 and remaining in an upright, vertical position, and a second side wall element 34 above the groove folding area 30 such that the second side wall element 34 is now positioned horizontally. When folding the second side wall element 34 around the groove 36, the gap in the groove 36 is effectively closed and due to the shape of the gap in the groove 36, the second side wall element 34 can form an angle α of about 90°, preferably 90°, with the first side wall element 32 when the gap in the groove 36 is closed. Depending on which groove 36, 38 is used to rotate the second side wall element 34 around, a distance d 2 or d 3 is achieved from the bottom edge 66 of the side wall 14, 18 to the top of the now folded side wall 14, 18.

[0104] A similar groove folding area 30 is foreseen in the first 12 and third 16 side wall, allowing the second side wall elements 34 of the first 12 and third 16 side wall to fold inwardly around their grooves 36 or 38.

[0105] Although it is preferred to use only one of the grooves 36, 38 to rotate the second side wall element 34 around, it is also possible for the second side wall element to rotate about both grooves 36, 38. In such an event, both the first folding groove 36 and second folding groove 38 will each be folded in an angle exceeding 90° such that the combined fold will amount to an angle α of about 90°. That way, a variable height of the second side wall element 34 above the base 10 can be accomplished.

[0106] Figure 6 shows a detailed perspective view of the container 1 in its extended configuration, top lid 40 placed on top of the container 1 and a securing mechanism 50 securing the first side wall 12 with the second side wall 14. The top lid 40 is foreseen with a recess 41 allowing a user to easily remove the top lid from or place the top lid 40 on the extended container. Although in figure 6, only one recess 41 is visible on the top surface of the top lid 40, multiple recesses 41 may be provided distributed over the entire top surface of the top lid 40 or even on the side surfaces of the top lid 40. Alternatively or additionally, one or more handle may be provided on the top surface and / or on the side surfaces of the top lid 40 such that the user has the option to choose from the variety of recesses 41 and / or handles distributed over the top lid 40 for easy removal and placement of the top lid 40 on the container 1. The securing mechanism 50 is provided on the second side wall 14 and is in its securing position, where the securing mechanism 50 is positioned substantially horizontally and parallel to the top edge 62 of the side wall 14. The securing mechanism 50 is located in the vicinity of the upper right corner of the second side wall 14, close to the top edge 62 and the side edge 64 of the second side wall 14. The first leg 52 of the securing mechanism 50 is positioned on the outer surface side of the second side wall 14 and is able to pivot together with its second leg 54 around the rotating means 53, 55 which is provided in the opening 60 of the second side wall 14. The connecting leg 56 bridging the first 52 and second 54 leg is placed over the side edge 64 of the second side wall 14. Although not visible in figure 6, in order for the connecting leg 56 to be placed over the side edge 64, the second leg 54 is positioned inside a recess 75 provided in the adjacent first side wall 12. A rim 57 is foreseen on the rotating means 53 providing for the necessary space to allow the second side wall 14 and the extension 70 to fit in between the first 52 and second 54 leg. An additional recess 76 is provided at the top edge 62 of the second side wall 14 to cooperate with a securing mechanism 50, 50', 51, 51'. When the securing mechanism is no longer in its securing position, thus in the position where the connecting leg 56 is placed over the side edge 56, but moved over to is free position, the connecting leg 56 can be positioned in this recess 76 such that the first 52 and second 54 legs of the securing mechanism can again be positioned substantially horizontal such that securing mechanism is not placed on the top edge 62 of the side wall but can be positioned below the top edge 62.

[0107] Figures 7A to 7C show a detailed perspective view of the first 12 and second 14 side walls of the container 1 and securing mechanism 50 in its securing position thus holding the first side wall 12 in a close connecting with the second side wall 14. In figure 7A a detailed view of the securing mechanism 50 is shown from the outside of the container 1, figure 7B shows a detailed top view of the securing mechanism, and figure 7C shows a detailed view of the securing mechanism from the inside of the container. The securing mechanism 50 is connected through opening 60 to the second side wall 14. The securing mechanism 50 is positioned in a substantially horizontal position, thus securing the first 12 and second 14 side wall with each other. A recess 75 is foreseen in the first side wall 12 allowing the second leg 54 to move in the recess 75 towards its substantially horizontal position. The recess 75 is configured such that the depth of the recess 75 allows the second leg 54 to rest on the inner bottom edge of the recess 75 and to position the first 52 and second 54 leg in a substantially horizontal position. The first side wall 12 is foreseen with an extension 70, which is formed by bending the edge 68 over about 90° inwardly. When the first side wall 12 and the second side wall 14 are in their extended configuration, the extension 70 will be positioned near the inner side of the second side wall 14. The securing mechanism 50 is able to secure the first side wall 12 with the second side wall 14 by rotation of the first 52, second 54 and connecting 56 leg from a generally vertical position to a generally horizontal position.. The second side wall 14 and extension 70 of the first side wall 12 will then be clamped in between the first 52, second 54 and connecting 56 legs of the securing mechanism 50, thus preventing mutual movement of the first 12 and second 14 side walls. The rotating connecting means 53 is foreseen with a handle 58 to facilitate easy manipulation of the securing mechanism 50, the handle 58 being positioned on the inside of the container 1 when the container is in its extended configuration. Alternatively, a user may simply use one of the legs 52, 54, 56 to move the securing mechanism 50 from one position to the other.

[0108] Figures 8A to 8C show a detailed perspective view of the first 12 and second 14 side walls of the container 1 and securing mechanism 50 in its free vertical position, thus allowing movement between the first side wall 12 and the second side wall 14 relative to each other. Figure 8A shows a detailed view of the securing mechanism 50 from the outside of the container 1, figure 8B shows a detailed top view of the securing mechanism 50, and figure 8C shows a detailed view of the securing mechanism 50 from the inside of the container 1. When the securing mechanism 50 is in its upright, horizontal position, the second leg 54 is no longer present in the recess 75 of the first side wall 12 and the connecting leg 56 is no longer positioned over the edge 64 of the second side wall 14. Further, the second leg 54 no longer confines the upper part of the extension 70 of the first side wall 12. In this upright position of the securing mechanism 50, the first 12 and second 14 side wall can be moved away from each other so that they can be folded inwardly into a folded configuration of the container 1. As shown in figure 8B, the securing mechanism 50 can be rotated over about 180° such that the connecting leg 56 moves from a position where the connecting leg 56 is positioned over the edge 64 to a position where the connecting leg 56 is positioned in the recess 76. When the recess 76 is cut out sufficiently deep, the securing mechanism 50 can be rotated such that the first 52 and second 54 legs of the securing mechanism 50 is positioned below the top edge 62 of the side wall 14, 18.

[0109] In figure 9A, a detailed perspective view from the inside of the container 1 is shown, wherein the first 12 and second 14 side walls have moved a distance from each other. The securing mechanism 50 remains in its free, position allowing the side walls 12, 14 to move freely relative to each other without being hindered by the securing mechanism 50. In figures 9A to 9C, the securing mechanism 50 is rotated about 180° such that the connecting leg 56 is positioned in the recess 76. However, such a positioning is not absolutely necessary to allow movement of the side walls relative to each other. Even if the securing mechanism 50 is in a free, vertical position, such that the connecting leg 56 is no longer positioned in the recess 75, the side walls will be able to move relative to each other. In figure 9B, a detailed perspective view of the container 1 from the outside of the container 1is shown having a first 12, second 14 and fourth side walls, a first securing mechanism 50 connected to the second side wall 14, and a second securing mechanism 51 connected to the fourth side wall 18. As is clear from figures 9A and 9B, by placing both securing mechanisms 50, 51 in their free position, the first side wall 12 is able to pivot inwardly around one of the grooves 36, 38 provided in the groove folding area 30. Figure 9B shows an additional locking mechanism 100 installed on the second side wall 14 which can be used together with the securing mechanisms 50, 51 to lock and unlock neighbouring side walls with respect to each other to provide an additional locking between these two neighbouring side walls on top of the securing of these side walls by the securing mechanism 50, 51. Hence, an additional fixation point is provided between two neighbouring side walls increasing the efficient and reliable prevention of movement of the side walls relative to each other. On the opposite fourth side wall 18, a hole 61 is foreseen which allows the mounting of such an additional locking mechanism 100.

[0110] Figure 10A shows a detailed perspective outer view of the container 1, top lid 40, securing mechanism 50 and a first embodiment of the locking mechanism 90. Figure 10B shows a detailed perspective inner view of the container 1, the securing mechanism 50 and the first embodiment of the locking mechanism 90. Figure 10C shows a detailed perspective view of the first embodiment of the locking mechanism 90, 91 in the open, unlocked state. Figure 10D shows a detailed perspective view of the locking mechanism 90, 91 as shown in figure 10C, but now in the closed, locked state. The locking mechanism 90, 91 comprising a first element 92 connected to the extension 70 of the first side wall 12 through an opening (not shown) and a second element 93 connected to the second side wall 14 through an opening 61 foreseen in the second side wall 14. Such an opening needs to be located in the vicinity of the outer edge 64 of the second side wall 14 to allow a cooperation between the first element 92 when connected with the extension 70 of the first side wall 12 and the second element 93 when connected with the second side wall 14. Preferably, the locking mechanism 90 is provided halfway at the side wall to coordinate and optimise the working of the locking mechanism 90, 91 with the securing mechanism 50, 51. Alternatively, the locking mechanism 90, 91 may positioned at about 1 / 3 or less, about 1 / 4 or less, about 1 / 5 or less, about 1 / 6 or less, about 1 / 7 or less, about 1 / 8 or less, about 1 / 9 or less, about 1 / 10 or less, about 1 / 12 or less, about 1 / 15 or less or about 1 / 20 or less from the top edge 62 of the side wall.

[0111] The first element 92 comprises an outer shell element 95 having a slot 98, an inner shell element 96 having an abutment element 97, and a shoulder 89 positioned between the outer shell element 95 and the inner shell element 96. The outer shell element 95 is positioned on one side of the extension 70 of the first side wall 12 facing the second side wall 14, and the inner shell element 96 being positioned on the opposite side of the extension 70 of the first side wall 12 facing away from the second side wall 14. The slot 98 is positioned a distance apart from the abutment element 97. This distance is regulated by the thickness of the shoulder 89 which is positioned between the outer shell element 95 and the inner shell element 96. The thickness of the shoulder 89 may vary depending on the thickness of the extension wall 70.

[0112] The second element 93 comprising a locking element 94, the locking element 94 consisting of a protruding element and a round shaft. When installing the second element 93 on the second side wall 14, the round shaft will be pushed through a complementary hole in the second side wall 14 and fixedly be connected to the second element 93 to connect the second element 93 to the second side wall 14. The protruding locking element 94 being complementary to the shape of the slot 98 provided in the outer shell element 95. When the first side wall 12 and the second side wall 14 are in close proximity with each other, the second element 93 and particularly the protruding locking element 94 thereof can be pushed through the slot 98 of the outer shell element 95. Once the protruding locking element 94 is pushed through the slot 98, the protruding locking element 94 will be present between this slot 98 and the abutment element 97 preventing that the protruding locking element 94 can be pushed too far through the first element 92, see figure 10C. When locking the locking mechanism 90, the second element 93 and protruding locking element 94 will be rotated about 90° by turning a gripping element 99, such that the protruding element 94 is no longer aligned with the slot 98, and hence, movement between the first side wall 12 and the second side wall 14 is prohibited, see figure 10D.

[0113] Figures 11A to 11D show a detailed perspective view of a second embodiment of the locking mechanism 100. In figure 11A, a first side wall 12, second side wall 14 and fourth side wall 18 of the container 1 are shown, together with the securing mechanism 50 and the second embodiment of the locking mechanism 100. The securing mechanism 50 being in its free position and placed inside the recess 76, while the locking mechanism 100 is in its open, unlocked state. Figure 11B is similar to figure 11A, however in figure 11B, the locking mechanism 100 is shown in its closed, locked state. In figure 11C, a detailed perspective view is shown of the locking mechanism 100 in its unlocked state, shown from the inside of the container 1. A part of the locking mechanism 100 is connected to the extension 70 of a first side wall 12. Figure 11D shows a detailed perspective view of the locking mechanism 100 similar to the view as shown in figure 11C, however, the locking mechanism 100 being now rotated in its locked state.

[0114] Figures 12A to 12D show a detailed exploded view of the second embodiment of the locking mechanism 100 as shown in figures 11A to 11D. In figure 12A, all elements of the second embodiment of the locking mechanism 100 are shown apart from each other, in figure 12B, the elements positioned on the second side wall 14 are mounted together, in figure 12C, all elements are mounted together showing the locking mechanism 100 in its open, unlocked state, and in figure 12D, all elements are brought together showing the locking mechanism 100 in its closed, locked state.

[0115] The locking mechanism 100 comprises a first element 102 connected to the extension 70 of the first side wall 12, and a second element 103 connected to the second side wall 14. The first element 102 comprising an outer ring element 110 which can be fixedly connected to extension 70 of the first side wall 12 by using connecting means such as bolts or rivets through the holes 111 in the outer ring element 110. In the outer ring element 110, a slot 112 is foreseen (see e.g. figure 12B), the slot 112 being shaped in such a way to allow a protruding locking element 105 of the second element 103 to be placed inside the outer ring element 110 of the first element 102. The slot 112 is preferably shaped as a banana shaped slot, or any other suitable shape such that a complementary shape of a protruding locking element 105 of the second element 103 can be received in the slot 112 and continue to rotate inside the slot 112 away from the inserting position. The outer ring element 110 further comprises a blocking element 114, the blocking element 114 and the slot 112 cooperating together such that, once the protruding locking element 105 is inserted into the slot 112 and the protruding locking element 105 is rotated inside the slot 112, at least a part of the protruding locking element 105 will be positioned behind the blocking element 114, thus preventing the removal of the protruding locking element 105 back out of the slot 112 and outer ring element 110 by pulling on the second element 103.

[0116] The second element 103 comprises an outer shell element 104 having a protruding locking element 105, the protruding locking element 105 being in the form of a half circle and extending or protruding a distance away from the base 106 of the outer shell element 104. The second element 103 further comprising an inner shell element 107 having a hole 108 matching the shape of the protruding locking element 105 and a shoulder 109 which is configured to connect the inner shell element 107 with the outer shell element 104 when installed in the second side wall 14.

[0117] When in use, the outer shell element 104 is positioned on the outer side of the second side wall 14, the protruding locking element 105 being inserted through a hole 61 in the second side wall 14. Further, the inner shell element 107 is positioned on the opposite side of the second side wall 14. The outer shell element 104 and the inner shell element 107 being able to rotate together when the second element 103 is being rotated.

[0118] The protruding locking element 105 of the outer shell element 104 is configured to connect with the blocking element 114, such that, when the protruding locking element 105 is inserted through the slot 112 of the outer ring element 110, the outer shell element 104, the inner shell element 107 and protruding locking element 105 may rotated with respect to the blocking element 114 of the outer ring element 110 such that the protruding locking element 105 may hook at least partially behind the blocking element 114, thus moving from an unlocked position (see figure 11C) to a locked position (see figure 11D). The removal of the protruding locking element 105 and the second element 103 from the slot 112 and the first element 102 will thus be prevented. When the protruding locking element 105 is rotated and secured by the blocking element 114, the two side walls 12, 14 are locked to each other and unable to move away from one another.

[0119] In order to facilitate a user when manipulating the locking mechanism 100, a handle 120 may be provided on the outer shell element 104 of the second element 103.

[0120] Figures 13A to 13D show a detailed view of an embodiment of the securing mechanism 50, 50', 51, 51'. The securing mechanism 50, 50', 51, 51'comprises a first leg 52, a second leg 54, a connecting leg 56 and rotating means 53, 55. The first leg 52 is intended to be positioned on a first side of a side wall 1. The second leg 54 is intended to be positioned on a second side of the side wall. The rotating means comprising a first element 55 connected to a first end of the first leg 52, and a second element 53 connected to a first end of the second leg 54. The second element 53 comprises a shoulder 57, a handle 58, and a first locking part 59. The first element 55 comprises a second locking part 51. The connecting leg 56 comprises a first element 56a connected to a second end of the first leg 52, and a second element 56b connected to a second end of the second leg 54.

[0121] When mounting the locking element 50, 50', 51, 51' to a side wall such as the second 14 or fourth 18 side wall, the first locking part 59 and the second locking part 51 are inserted through an opening 60 in the side wall. As can be seen from figures 13B and 13C, the first element 56a connected to the first leg 52 and the second element 56b connected to the second leg 54 are not yet connected to each other. When rotating the first leg 52 and / or the second leg 54, the first locking part 59 interlocks with the second locking part 51, the rotating means 53, 55 are configured to securely connect the first end of the first leg 52 with the first end of the second leg 54. At the same time, the first element 56a and the second element 56b of the connecting leg 56 will assemble together thus forming one rigid securing mechanism 50, 50', 51, 51'.

[0122] Figure 14A to 14D show the different folding steps of the side walls 12, 14, 16, 17 of the container 1 between the extended configuration and the collapsed configuration.

[0123] In figure 14A, the securing mechanisms 50 and 51 have been brought from a securing position (wherein the securing mechanism 50, 51 is in a generally horizontal position) to a free position (wherein the securing mechanism 50, 51 is again in a generally horizontal position, however rotated about 180° around the rotating means 53, 55). Although a locking mechanism 100 is foreseen in the figures 14A to 14D, the locking mechanism as shown in figures 10A to 10D may be provided in an alternative embodiment, or even no locking mechanism may be present in a further alternative embodiment. In order for the container 1 to move from its extended configuration to its collapsed configuration, the locking mechanism will likewise need to move from its locking position to its open position. Once the securing mechanisms 50, 51, and optionally the locking mechanism 90, 100, are in the free or open position, the first side wall 12 is able to be folded inwardly around its first groove 36. The first side wall 12 is thus brought from a position essentially perpendicular to the base 10, to a position essentially parallel to the base 10 and the second side wall element 34 of the first side wall 12 is thereby folded around the groove 36 in the groove folding area 30 of the first side wall 12. In figure 14B, the locking mechanisms 50' and 5 1' are moved from their securing position to their free position. Subsequently, the third side wall 16 is able to be folded inwardly around its second groove 38. The third side wall 16 is thus brought from a position essentially perpendicular to the base 10, to a position essentially parallel to the base 10 and the second side wall element 34 of the third side wall 16 is thereby folded around the groove 36 in the groove folding area 30 of the third side wall 16. As shown in figure 14C, the second wall 14 is now folded inwardly around its first groove 36, he second side wall 14 is thus brought from a position essentially perpendicular to the base 10, to a position essentially parallel to the base 10 and the second side wall element 34 of the second side wall 14 is thereby folded around the groove 36 in the groove folding area 30 of the second side wall 12. As shown in figure 14D, the fourth wall 18 follows by folding the fourth wall 18 around its second groove 38, the fourth side wall 18 is thus brought from a position essentially perpendicular to the base 10, to a position essentially parallel to the base 10 and the second side wall element 34 of the fourth side wall 18 is thereby folded around the groove 36 in the groove folding area 30 of the fourth side wall 18. In such a way, the container 1 is placed from its extended configuration having a first storage capacity 20 to a collapsed configuration having a second storage capacity 22. The reinforcement corners 160 are positioned above the surface of the fourth side wall 18, such that a top lid 40 can be placed on top of these reinforcement corners 160 to effectively shield the side walls 12, 14, 16, 18.

[0124] As shown in figures 4B, 7C, 8C, 9A, 10B, 11C and 11D, the thickness of the extensions 70 are decreasing towards their edges. Although such decrease of thickness is not necessary, it will allow for the first side wall 12 and third side wall 16 to be a more securely positioned when in their collapsed position. The thinner edge of the extension 70 is more easily pushed between the neighbouring side walls and when movement is continued, the thicker part of the extension 70 will be pinched between the side walls and thus providing a close and secure fit. For example, when the first side wall 12 is brought from its extended position to its collapsed position, the extension 70 on the first edge will be positioned facing the first side wall element 32 of the fourth side wall 18, while the other extension 70 on the second side edge of the first side wall 12 will be positioned facing the first side wall element 32 of the second side wall 14. However there is still a gap foreseen between the extensions 70 and the first side wall elements 32 of the respective walls. Now, when the third side wall 16 is brought from its extended position to its collapsed position, the thinner edge of the extension 70 of the third sied wall 16 will be pushed in the gap between the first side wall element 32 of the fourth side wall 18 and the extension 70 of the first side wall 12. Pushing the third side wall 16 further will allow the thicker part of the extension 70 to be brought further in the gap and thus be pinched in between the first side wall element 32 of the fourth side wall 18 and the extension 70. Likewise, for the other extension 70 of the third side wall 16, the thinner edge of this extension 70 will be pushed in between the first side wall element 32 of the second side wall 14 and the extension of the first side wall. Continued downward movement will also bring the thicker part of the extension in the gap, thus allowing the extensions 70 of the third side wall 16 to be effectively pinched between the first side wall elements of the second 14 and fourth 18 wall and the extensions 70 of the first side wall 12.

[0125] Although not shown in the figures, it is to be understood that it is likewise possible to move the container 1 described herein from a collapsed configuration to an extended configuration by using the following steps: moving the fourth side wall 18 from a position essentially parallel to the base 10 to a position essentially perpendicular to the base 10, moving the second side wall 14 from a position essentially parallel to the base 10 to a position essentially perpendicular to the base 10 , moving the third side wall 16 from a position essentially parallel to the base 10 to a position essentially perpendicular to the base 10, securing the fourth side wall 18 to the third side wall 16 by moving the securing mechanism 51' from its free position to its securing position, and securing the third side wall 16 to the second side wall 14 by moving the securing mechanism 50' from its free position to its securing position, moving the first side wall 12 from a position essentially parallel to the base 10 to a position essentially perpendicular to the base 10, securing the fourth side wall 18 to the first side wall 12 by moving the securing mechanism 51 from its free position to its securing position, and securing the first side wall 12 to the second side wall 14 by moving the securing mechanism 50 from its free position to its securing position.

[0126] Optionally the side walls 12, 14, 16, 18 may be additionally locked into their upright position by moving at least two locking mechanisms 90, 90', 100 from a first unlocked position to a second locked position. It is to be understood that the order of the manipulating steps as shown in relation to figures 14A to 14D or as described in the above steps are not limited to this particular order and can be exchanged freely.

Examples

examples

EXAMPLES

[0086]Figure 1A shows a perspective view of a container 1 foreseen with a top lid 40 placed on a loading pallet 150 according to the present invention. The container 1 being in its extended configuration having a first storage capacity 20. The container 1 comprises a base 10 and four side walls in total, of which two side walls 12, 14 are visible in figure 1. Dotted lines are shown on the side walls 12, 14, which are parallel to the base 10, the dotted lines represent the folding grooves 36, 38. Both folding grooves 36, 38 are located in their respective groove folding area 30 and are positioned substantially parallel to the base 10. Each side wall 12, 14 is foreseen with such a groove folding area 30. The first side wall 12 has a groove folding area 30 in which the first groove 36 and the second groove 38 are spaced apart a first certain distance from each other. The second side wall 14 has a groove folding area 30 in which the first groove 36 and second groove 38 are space...

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of storage containers, and more specifically to foldable storage containers designed to optimize space utilization and ease of transport.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Storage containers are essential in various sectors, including residential, commercial, industrial, and logistics where they are used to store, transport, and organize a wide range of items. Such containers come in various shapes and sizes, typically made from materials such as plastic, metal, and cardboard. However, these containers are rigid and do not offer flexibility in terms of storage space when they are loaded with relatively smaller goods, and therefore face considerable limitations in terms of space efficiency and the capacity to being efficiently stacked when not in use.

[0003] Several attempts have been made to address these issues through the development of collapsible or foldable storage containers. For example, some designs incorporate hinges and joints that allow the walls of the container to fold inward, reducing the overall volume of the container to a minimum when not in use. Other designs use flexible materials that can be folded or rolled up. However, such approaches often suffer from drawbacks such as complexity in design, a lack of structural integrity when unfolded, a lack of capacity for stacking on top of other containers of the same kind in either the unfolded or folded configuration, and such containers remain uncapable of providing an optimal storage capacity for goods of different sizes. While some cardboard containers have been described wherein portions of the side walls can be cut off to achieve this, this change in storage capacity can only be effected once and therefore does not offer a environmental friendly and reusable approach. Alternative approaches using telescopic elements to change the storage capacity are often cumbersome to use and are prone to mechanical failure.

[0004] There is thus an unmet need for improved foldable containers that overcome the above-mentioned problems.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The present inventors have developed a foldable container that overcomes the above-mentioned problems of containers described in the art. Surprisingly, by using at least two folding grooves located in the side wall substantially parallel to the base of the container, a foldable container having a variable storage capacity is obtained that is reusable and stackable with other containers of the same type, regardless which configuration said other containers are in. Notably, the container does not rely on telescopic moving elements. The two folding grooves serve a dual purpose; in addition to allowing the side walls to fold, they also provide a means to mitigate the thickness of the folded side walls, such that each of the side walls can be placed substantially horizontally in the folded configuration of the container, regardless of which side wall is folded first and which one is placed on top of the already folded side wall. Furthermore, in a collapsed configuration a portion of the side walls may act as an additional protection means for the stored goods.

[0006] According to a first aspect there is provided a container comprising a base and four side walls, the container being configured to be placed into an extended and a collapsed configuration, in the extended configuration the container comprises a first storage capacity able to receive goods of a first dimension, in the collapsed configuration, the container comprises a second storage capacity to receive goods of a second dimension, wherein the first storage capacity is greater than the second storage capacity, wherein each one of the four side walls comprises a groove folding area, the groove folding area being configured to divide each side wall into a first side wall element below the groove folding area and a second side wall element above the groove folding area, and wherein at least two of the four side walls comprise at least two folding grooves in the groove folding area, the at least two folding grooves being substantially parallel to the base.

[0007] In a preferred embodiment, each of the four side walls comprise at least two folding grooves in their respective groove folding area.

[0008] Having at least two folding grooves at some or all of the side walls will allow the side walls to be folded inwardly such that the second side wall element is able to be placed parallel to the base of the container regardless of which side wall is pivoted first. Hence, a variation of height can be accomplished for each second side wall element of each side wall such that each second side wall element can be positioned parallel to the base of the container.

[0009] In a preferred embodiment, the container comprises reinforcing elements. In a preferred embodiment, the container is configured to receive a top lid in the extended and / or collapsed configuration. The top lid can be positioned on the container regardless of the configuration the container is in. When the container is in the extended configuration and the four side walls are folded uprightly, the top lid can rest on the upper ends of the side walls to close off the area inside the container. When the container is in the collapsed configuration, the side walls will be positioned below the top of the reinforcement corners and the top lid can rest on the top of the reinforcement corners, thus shielding not only the smaller area inside the container, but also the side wall elements which are folded inwardly. In a preferred embodiment, the container is stackable with a second identical container in both the extended configuration and the collapsed configuration. When the top lid is placed on top of the container, regardless of the configuration the container is in, it is possible to stack containers on top of each other, since the top lid will provide for a flat surface to place the next container on.

[0010] In a preferred embodiment, the combination of the folding grooves are configured to position the first and the second side wall element relative to each other such that the side wall elements form an angle α in the extended configuration of about 180° and / or to position the first and the second side wall element relative to each other such that the side wall elements forms an angle α in the collapsed configuration of about 90°.

[0011] In a preferred embodiment, the folding grooves in opposing side walls are located on the same height and / or wherein the folding grooves in adjacent side walls are located on a different height above the base. When two folding grooves are foreseen in each side wall, and the grooves in the side walls opposite from each other are foreseen at the same height above the base, each side walls can be place on top of the other. If the first side wall is collapsed first, the lowest grove will be used to bent the side wall, thus positioning the second side wall element at the lowest distance above the base. When the third side wall, being the side wall opposite from the first side wall is now collapsed, the upper grove will be used to bent the third side wall, thus positioning the second side wall element of the third side wall at a higher distance above the base, compared to the second side wall element of the first side wall. Now, the second side wall element of the third side wall is able to lay on top of the first side wall. However, if the third side wall is collapsed first, the lower grove will be used to bent the third side wall, while the upper grove of the first side wall will be used when collapsing the first side wall on top of the already collapsed third side wall, this time allowing the first side wall to lay on top of the third side wall. Similar to the first and third side walls, the grooves of the second and fourth side walls are located at the same height above the base. However, it is preferred that the grooves of the first and third side walls are at a different height than the grooves of the second and fourth side walls to allow all the walls to be positioned parallel to the base when in their collapsed configuration.

[0012] In a preferred embodiment, the folding grooves are indented grooves in the side walls. By using indented grooves, it is possible to reposition each second side wall element relative to its respective first side wall element such that the corresponding first and second side wall elements form an angle α of 90° when the side wall is in its collapsed configuration.

[0013] In a preferred embodiment, the folding groove area is located in the side wall such that the collapsed configuration comprises a storage capacity that is 1 / 2 or less, preferably 1 / 3 or less, preferably 1 / 4 or less, preferably 1 / 6 or less, preferably 1 / 8 or less, preferably 1 / 10 or less, preferably 1 / 12 or less, preferably 1 / 15 or less, of the storage capacity in the extended configuration. In a preferred embodiment, multiple folding groove areas are foreseen on each side wall, allowing the storage capacity of the container to vary depending on the folding groove area and respective folding grooves used to collapse the side walls. It is thus possible to have a container which is able to have a first storage capacity which is e.g. 1 / 2 of the storage capacity in the extended configuration and to have a second storage capacity which is e.g. 1 / 8 of the storage capacity in the extended configuration. By having more than one groove folding area, it is possible to enhance the versatility of the container.

[0014] In a preferred embodiment, each side wall maintains physical integrity in both the extended and collapsed configuration. Such side walls will thus be able to adequately shield and secure any objects placed inside the container, regardless of the configuration the container is in.

[0015] In a preferred embodiment, the container further comprises at least two securing mechanisms configured to fixate the side walls of the container when the side walls are in the extended configuration. In order to maintain the side walls of the container uprightly when the side walls are extended, the side walls may be releasably connected to each other such that two neighbouring side walls are fixated with each other and are able to maintain their extended and upright position, thus forming a container in an extended configuration. Preferably, four securing mechanisms are foreseen as to fixate each side wall with a neighbouring side wall. Preferably, two securing mechanisms are foreseen on the second side wall, and two securing mechanisms are foreseen on the opposite fourth side wall. Preferably, each securing mechanism is located on an outer side or edge of the side wall such that the securing mechanism is able to connect with the outer side or edge of the neighbouring side wall.

[0016] In a preferred embodiment, each securing mechanism comprises a first leg positioned on a first side of a side wall, a second leg positioned on a second side of the side wall, and a rotating means positioned through an opening in the side wall, the rotating means connecting a first end of the first leg with a first end of the second leg.

[0017] In a preferred embodiment, the securing mechanism further comprises a connecting leg connecting a second end of the first leg with a second end of the second leg. Having a first leg on one side, a second leg on the other side of the side wall and a connecting leg in between the first and second leg, will allow for a secure connection of the side walls. When the securing mechanism is rotated in a substantially vertical position, such that the first and second legs are substantially perpendicular to the base of the container, the securing mechanism is inactive thus allowing the movement of neighbouring side walls relatively to each other. When the securing mechanism is rotated in a substantially horizontal position, such that the first and second legs are substantially parallel to the base of the container, the securing mechanism is active, thus preventing the movement of neighbouring side walls.

[0018] In a preferred embodiment, an extension is connected to a first side wall, a first securing mechanism is connected to a second side wall, the second side wall being adjacent to the first side wall and wherein the extension being configured such that it can be positioned between the securing mechanism and the second side wall. Preferably, the extension is configured such that it forms an angle of 90° with the first side wall to which it is connected. Preferably, an extension is foreseen on both edges of the first side wall, such that it can cooperate with the securing mechanisms on either side of the side wall. By having an extension on the edge of the first side wall, the legs of the securing mechanism will be able to have a close fit when brought into the active position and thus the securing mechanism will be able to function in an improved manner.

[0019] In a preferred embodiment, a recess is provided in the top of a first side wall and a first securing mechanism is connected to a second side wall, the second side wall being adjacent to the first side wall, and wherein the recess is positioned such that the first or second leg of the first securing mechanism is able to pivot in the recess of the first side wall. By providing such a recess, the leg of the securing mechanism which is positioned on the inside of the container will be able to more securely fixate the first side wall relative to the second side wall. In particular when the securing mechanism is foreseen with the connecting leg, the connecting leg can be positioned such that it will effectively secure the neighbouring side walls. In the active position, the inner leg of the securing mechanism will be able to lay in the recess, while the outer leg of the securing mechanism will be positioned on the outside of the second side wall and the connecting leg will be positioned on the outside of the first side wall, thus blocking the movement of the first side wall in all directions.

[0020] In a preferred embodiment, the container comprises: a first securing mechanism connected to a first side of a second side wall, a second securing mechanism connected to second side of a second side wall, a third securing mechanism connected to a first side of a fourth side wall, the first second wall being positioned opposite from the fourth side wall, a fourth securing mechanism connected to a second side of the fourth side wall, a first side wall, positioned between the second and the fourth side wall such that the first securing mechanism of the second side wall and the third securing mechanism of the fourth side wall are configured to cooperate with the first side wall, and a third side wall, positioned between the second and the fourth side wall such that the second securing mechanism of the second side wall and the fourth securing mechanism of the fourth side wall are configured to cooperate with the third side wall.

[0021] In a preferred embodiment, the container further comprises at least one locking mechanism, the locking mechanism having a first element connected directly or indirectly to a first side wall and a second element connected to a second side wall, wherein the first and second side wall are adjacent each other, wherein the first and second element of the at least one securing mechanism are positioned near the adjacent side edge of each respective side wall, and wherein the second element is configured to be positioned in the first element and is configured to be rotated inside the first element to securely lock the first side wall to the second side wall. Such a locking mechanism may be installed together with a securing mechanism or the locking mechanism may be installed without a securing mechanism present. The locking mechanism will effectively lock two neighbouring side walls to each other, due to the interlocking of the first element connected to the first side wall and the second element connected to the second side wall. In a preferred embodiment, the second element comprises a rotating part, the rotating part being configured to rotate in the stationary first element when the first and second element are interconnected with each other. When the two elements are brought into contact with each other, the rotating part of the second element is configured to rotate from an inactive position to an active, locking position. The rotating part will thus be relocated such that the rotating part will be blocked by the stationary first element and the two neighbouring side walls are locked with each other and movement of one side wall relative to the other side wall is prevented.

[0022] In a preferred embodiment, the at least one locking mechanism is positioned on the edge of a side wall, preferably halfway of the side wall. Especially when the locking mechanisms are used together with the securing mechanisms, each side wall will be connected with a neighbouring side wall at two locations, one being at the top and one being midway the side wall, thus effectively being able to maintain the side walls in an extended position.

[0023] In a preferred embodiment, the container is mounted on a means for facilitating transport of the container, preferably wherein said container is mounted on a loading pallet, optionally wherein the loading pallet is a dismountable loading pallet.

[0024] In a preferred embodiment, the container is attached to the loading pallet by one or more reinforcing elements. The reinforcing elements may have multiple functions: the reinforcing elements may be used to secure the side walls to the base of the container and enhance the stability and connection between the side walls and base, the reinforcing elements may be used to position the top lid on when the container is in its collapsed configuration, and the reinforcing elements may be used to connect the container to a loading pallet to allow easy transportation of the container.

[0025] In a preferred embodiment, in the extended configuration the side walls of the container are positioned perpendicular to the base and wherein in the collapsed configuration at least the second side wall elements of the side walls of the container are positioned parallel to the base.

[0026] In a preferred embodiment, the side walls, the base, and / or the top lid are comprised of a polymer, preferably a synthetic polymer, more preferably polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyvinylchloride (PVC), polystyrene (PS), polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), and / or polylactic acid (PLA). Such a material will allow the side walls, the base and / or the top lid to form a rigid plate, thus being able to provide for a robust container, regardless of the configuration the container is positioned in.

[0027] In a preferred embodiment, in the extended configuration the container has a substantially rectangular shape, preferably a substantially cuboid shape.

[0028] In a preferred embodiment, two or more side walls comprise handles or handle openings. Preferably, the one or more handles and wall are formed as a plastic injected single part. Such handles or handle openings allow for a user to easily manipulate the side walls and bring the container from the collapsed configuration to the extended configuration and vice versa.

[0029] According to a further aspect there is provided a method for moving a container described herein from a collapsed configuration to an extended configuration, wherein the method comprises the steps of: moving the fourth side wall from a position essentially parallel to the base to a position essentially perpendicular to the base, moving the second side wall from a position essentially parallel to the base to a position essentially perpendicular to the base, moving the third side wall from a position essentially parallel to the base to a position essentially perpendicular to the base, moving the first side wall from a position essentially parallel to the base to a position essentially perpendicular to the base, securing the first, second, third and fourth side wall into its upright position by moving at least two securing mechanisms from a first free position to a second secured position, optionally locking the first, second, third and fourth side wall into its upright position by moving at least two locking mechanisms from a first unlocked position to a second locked position.

[0030] According to yet a further aspect there is provided a method for moving a container described herein from an extended configuration to a collapsed configuration, wherein the method comprises the steps of: releasing the first, second, third and fourth side walls by moving at least two securing mechanisms from a second secured position to a first free position, optionally unlocking the first, second, third and fourth side walls by moving at least two locking mechanisms from a second locked position to a first unlocked position, moving a first side wall from a position essentially perpendicular to the base, to a position essentially parallel to the base, the second side wall element of the first side wall being configured to fold around at least one groove in the groove folding area of the first side wall, moving a third side wall from a position essentially perpendicular to the base, to a position essentially parallel to the base, the second side wall element of the third side wall being configured to fold around at least one groove in the groove folding area of the third side wall, moving a second side wall from a position essentially perpendicular to the base, to a position essentially parallel to the base, the second side wall element of the second side wall being configured to fold around at least one groove in the groove folding area of the second side wall, and moving a fourth side wall from a position essentially perpendicular to the base, to a position essentially parallel to the base, the second side wall element of the fourth side wall being configured to fold around at least one groove in the groove folding area of the fourth side wall.

[0031] The above and further aspects and embodiments of the invention are described in the following sections and in the appended claims. The subject matter of the appended claims is hereby specifically incorporated in this specification.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0032] Figure 1A shows a perspective view of a container foreseen with a top lid placed on a loading pallet according to the present invention. The container being in its extended configuration. Figure 1B shows a perspective top view of the container foreseen with a top lid placed on a loading pallet according to the present invention. The container being in its collapsed configuration. Figure 2 shows a perspective top view of the container in its extended configuration as shown in figure 1A without the top lid present to allow a view inside the container. Figure 3 shows a cross section of the container in its collapsed configuration as shown in figure 1B. Figure 4A shows a perspective view of the second and fourth side walls of the container according to the present invention, the side wall being position in a fully extended and upright position. Figure 4B shows a perspective view of the first and third side walls of the container according to the present invention, the side wall being position in a fully extended and upright position. Figures 5A and 5B show a side view of the side wall as shown in figure 4. In figure 5A, the side wall is folded at a first groove located in a groove folding area, thus dividing the side wall into a first side wall element located below the groove folding area and a second side wall element above the groove folding area. In figure 5B, the side wall is folded at a second groove located in a groove folding area, thus dividing the side wall into a first side wall element located below the groove folding area and a second side wall element above the groove folding area. Figure 6 shows a detailed perspective view of the container, top lid and a securing mechanism as shown in figure 1. Figures 7A to 7C show a detailed perspective view of the container side walls and securing mechanism in its secured position as shown in figure 2. Figure 7A shows a detailed view of the securing mechanism from the outside of the container, figure 7B shows a detailed top view of the securing mechanism, and figure 7C shows a detailed view of the securing mechanism from the inside of the container. Figures 8A to 8C show a detailed perspective view of the container side walls and securing mechanism in its free position. Figure 8A shows a detailed view of the securing mechanism from the outside of the container, figure 8B shows a detailed top view of the securing mechanism, and figure 8C shows a detailed view of the securing mechanism from the inside of the container. Figure 9A shows a detailed perspective view of the container side walls and securing mechanism from the inside of the container. The securing mechanism is in its free position and the side walls are free to move relatively to each other. In figure 9B, a detailed perspective view of the container side walls and securing mechanism from the outside of the container is shown, similar to the view of figure 9A. Figures 9A and 9B show an additional locking mechanism which can be used together with the securing mechanism to lock and unlock the side walls with respect to each other to prevent or allow movement of the side walls. Figure 10A shows a detailed perspective outer view of the container, top lid, a securing mechanism and a first embodiment of the locking mechanism according to the present invention. Figure 10B shows a detailed perspective inner view of the container, a securing mechanism and the first embodiment of the locking mechanism according to the present invention. Figure 10C shows a detailed perspective view of the first embodiment of the locking mechanism in the open, unlocked state. Figure 10D shows a detailed perspective view of the locking mechanism as shown in figure 10C in the closed, locked state. Figures 11A to 11D show a detailed perspective view of a second embodiment of the locking mechanism. In figure 11A, side walls of the container, the securing mechanism and the locking mechanism are shown, the securing mechanism being in its secure position, while the locking mechanism is in its open, unlocked state. Figure 11B is similar to figure 11A, however in figure 11B, the locking mechanism is shown in its closed, locked state. In figure 11C, a detailed perspective view is shown of the locking mechanism in its unlocked state, shown on the inside of the container. A part of the locking mechanism is connected to an extension of a first side wall. Figure 11D shows a detailed perspective view of the locking mechanism in its locked state, shown on the inside of the container. Figures 12A to 12D show a detailed exploded view of the second embodiment of the locking mechanism. In figure 12A, all elements of the second embodiment of the locking mechanism are shown apart from each other, in figure 12B, the elements positioned on the second side wall are mounted together, in figure 12C, all elements are mounted together showing the locking mechanism in its open, unlocked state, and in figure 12D, all elements are mounted together showing the locking mechanism in its closed, locked state. Figures 13A to 13D show a detailed view of an embodiment of the securing mechanism as shown in any one of the figures 6 to 10. In figure 13A, the elements of the securing mechanism are shown apart from each other, if figure 13B, a first view of the securing mechanism mounted together at one end is shown, in figure 13C, a second view of the securing mechanism mounted together at the one end is shown, and in figure 13D, all elements are mounted together, showing the securing mechanism in its assembled configuration. Figure 14A to 14D show the different folding steps of the side walls of the container between the extended configuration and the collapsed configuration. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0033] As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include both singular and plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0034] The terms "comprising", "comprises" and "comprised of" as used herein are synonymous with "including", "includes" or "containing", "contains", and are inclusive or open-ended and do not exclude additional, non-recited members, elements or method steps. The terms also encompass "consisting of" and "consisting essentially of", which enjoy well-established meanings in patent terminology.

[0035] The recitation of numerical ranges by endpoints includes all numbers and fractions subsumed within the respective ranges, as well as the recited endpoints. This applies to numerical ranges irrespective of whether they are introduced by the expression "from... to..." or the expression "between... and..." or another expression.

[0036] The terms "about" or "approximately" as used herein when referring to a measurable value such as a parameter, an amount, a temporal duration, and the like, are meant to encompass variations of and from the specified value, such as variations of + / -10% or less, preferably + / -5% or less, more preferably + / -1% or less, and still more preferably + / -0.1% or less of and from the specified value, insofar such variations are appropriate to perform in the disclosed invention. It is to be understood that the value to which the modifier "about" or "approximately" refers is itself also specifically, and preferably, disclosed.

[0037] Whereas the terms "one or more" or "at least one", such as one or more members or at least one member of a group of members, is clear per se, by means of further exemplification, the term encompasses inter alia a reference to any one of said members, or to any two or more of said members, such as, e.g. any ≥3, ≥4, ≥5, ≥6 or ≥7 etc. of said members, and up to all said members. In another example, "one or more" or "at least one" may refer to 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7 or more.

[0038] The discussion of the background to the invention herein is included to explain the context of the invention. This is not to be taken as an admission that any of the material referred to was published, known, or part of the common general knowledge in any country as of the priority date of any of the claims.

[0039] Throughout this disclosure, various publications, patents and published patent specifications are referenced by an identifying citation. All documents cited in the present specification are hereby incorporated by reference in their entirety. In particular, the teachings or sections of such documents herein specifically referred to are incorporated by reference.

[0040] Unless otherwise defined, all terms used in disclosing the invention, including technical and scientific terms, have the meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. By means of further guidance, term definitions are included to better appreciate the teaching of the invention. When specific terms are defined in connection with a particular aspect of the invention or a particular embodiment of the invention, such connotation or meaning is meant to apply throughout this specification, i.e. also in the context of other aspects or embodiments of the invention, unless otherwise defined. For example, embodiments directed to products are also applicable to corresponding features of methods and uses.

[0041] In the following passages, different aspects or embodiments of the invention are defined in more detail. Each aspect or embodiment so defined may be combined with any other aspect(s) or embodiment(s) unless clearly indicated to the contrary. In particular, any feature indicated as being preferred or advantageous may be combined with any other feature or features indicated as being preferred or advantageous.

[0042] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment", "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to a person skilled in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments. Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those in the art. For example, in the appended claims, alternative combinations of claimed embodiments are encompassed, as would be understood by those in the art.

[0043] The invention provides in a container comprising a base and four side walls, the container being configured to be placed into an extended and a collapsed configuration, in the extended configuration the container comprises a first storage capacity able to receive goods of a first dimension, in the collapsed configuration, the container comprises a second storage capacity to receive goods of a second dimension, wherein the first storage capacity is greater than the second storage capacity, wherein each one of the four side walls comprises a groove folding area, the groove folding area being configured to divide each side wall into a first side wall element below the groove folding area and a second side wall element above the groove folding area, and wherein at least two of the four side walls comprise at least two folding grooves in the groove folding area, the at least two folding grooves being substantially parallel to the base.

[0044] It is to be understood that the container is repeatably transitional between the extended and the collapsed state by application of external force.

[0045] The term "container" as used herein is well known to a skilled person and relates to a receptacle or enclosure that is configured to hold, store, and transport goods, materials, or substances. In addition thereto, generally containers are further designed to protect their contents from external elements, including but not limited to external elements such as moisture, air, and contaminants. Generally, containers are also designed to aid safe and efficient handling, storage, and transportation of their contents. They are commonly used in various settings, including but not limited to households, industries, laboratories, and commercial environments. The term "container" may be interchangeably used with any suitable synonym thereof including but not limited to "storage unit" ,"vessel", "holder", "canister", "box", "bin", "crate", "cask", "drum", "barrel", "tank", "bucket", "pot", "carton", "case", and "package".

[0046] "Storage capacity" as used herein refers to an amount of goods or materials that can be held, contained, or stored within a container. Storage capacity allows quantification of the volume, size, or number of items that can be accommodated in said container. Illustrative examples of synonymous terms include without limitation "storage volume", "(holding, load, or containment) capacity", and "storage limit". "Goods" as used in the context of the present disclosure refers to any material or content that may be placed inside (i.e. loaded into) a container as described herein. The nature of the goods or their state is not particularly limiting in the context of the present invention. Hence, envisaged are containers suitable for solid goods, semi-solid goods, fluid goods, gaseous goods, or any combination thereof.

[0047] The "base", or interchangeably "bottom", "baseplate", "support plate", or "floor" of a container typically refers to a bottom part or ground surface of a container which provides stability and support for the structure of said container. In a typical container configuration, goods are placed in the interior of the container on the base. The base structure aids in providing stability and support to the container. In embodiments wherein the container is of a rectangular or cuboid shape, the base and the side walls are preferably substantially straight walls. Optionally, the base may be reinforced by using reinforcing parts, preferably in a grid like pattern, more preferably in a grid like pattern wherein the grid is made up of straight lines in one, two or more directions. Alternatively the base comprises curved reinforcing parts. By means of illustration and not limitation, the reinforcing parts may be rigid rod-shaped or plank-shaped elements. Optionally, the reinforcing parts may be metal, hard plastic (i.e. any hard polymer), or wood rod-shaped or plank-shaped reinforcing parts. In some embodiments, the reinforcing parts comprises one or more reinforcing rods, preferably embedded into the base. Preferably, a reinforcement rod is a metal rod or plastic rod, more preferably a metal rod.

[0048] In some embodiments, the width of the base is at least 500 mm, more preferably at least 600 mm. more preferably at least 800 mm, even more preferably at least 1000 mm and most preferably at least 1100 mm.

[0049] In some embodiments, the width of the base is at least 500 mm to at most 2000 mm, more preferably at least 600 mm to at most 1800 mm. more preferably at least 800 mm to at most 1600 mm, even more preferably at least 1000 mm to at most 1500 mm and most preferably at least 1100 mm to at least 1400 mm.

[0050] In some embodiments, the length of the base is at least 700 mm, more preferably at least 800 mm. more preferably at least 900 mm, even more preferably at least 1100 mm and most preferably at least 1400 mm.

[0051] In some embodiments, the length of the base is at least 700 mm to at most 2000 mm, more preferably at least 800 mm to at most 1800 mm. more preferably at least 900 mm to at most 1600 mm, even more preferably at least 1100 mm to at most 1600 mm and most preferably at least 1400 mm to at least 1500 mm.

[0052] In some embodiments, the dimensions of the base are at least 600 mm to at most 1200 mm, by, at least 800 mm to at most 1500 mm.

[0053] In some embodiments, the dimensions of the base are 1190 mm by 1150 mm, 800 mm by 600 mm, 1000 mm by 600 mm, 1140 mm by 1140 mm, or 1480 by 1145 mm.

[0054] In the context of atypical rectangular or cuboid container such as preferentially envisaged by the present disclosure, the term "side wall" refers to the substantially vertical surfaces that extend from the base of the container to form the sides thereof and which enclose the space within the container. Depending on the configuration that is described for the container of the present invention, the (complete) side wall may be substantially vertical compared to the base (i.e. perpendicular to the base) in e.g. the extended configuration, or only a first side wall element below the groove folding area may be substantially vertical compared to the base in e.g. the collapsed configuration. When referring to a first side wall element below the groove folding area, it is to be appreciated that reference is made to the side wall element proximal to the base of the container. Vice versa, when referring to a second side wall element above the groove folding area, it is to be appreciated that reference is made to the side wall element distal to the base of the container.

[0055] Preferably, the base comprises polymer, preferably polypropylene (PP) and / or polyethylene, more preferably PP. Preferably; the container top lid comprises polymer, preferably polypropylene (PP) and / or polyethylene, more preferably PP. Preferably the side walls comprise polymer, preferably polypropylene (PP), more preferably PP which comprises talc.

[0056] In some embodiments, the foldable container is made at least partially, preferably entirely from a polymer, preferably a synthetic polymer, more preferably polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), acrylonitrile butadiene styrene (ABS), polyvinylchloride (PVC), polystyrene (PS), polymethylmethacrylate (PMMA), and / or polylactic acid (PLA). This makes it possible to use the foldable container in multi way applications.

[0057] The container of the present invention is able to at least adopt two distinct configurations, an "extended configuration" and a "collapsed configuration". The extended configuration is used herein to indicate a container configuration characterised by a substantial vertical position of all side walls which accommodates a relatively large storage capacity. The collapsed configuration is used herein to indicate a container configuration characterised by a substantial vertical position of the first side wall elements below the groove folding area and a substantially horizontal position of the second wall elements above the groove folding area. In some embodiments, the collapsed state has a flattened form, optionally rectangular, such as oblong or square. Illustrative alternative terms that may be used when referring to the extended configurations include without limitation "expanded", "unfolded", "expanded", "deployed", "open", and "not-collapsed". Illustrative alternative terms that may be used when referring to the collapsed configuration include without limitation "folded", "compressed", "compacted", "closed", and "minimized". "Groove folding area" as used herein refers to a particular portion, section, or zone, of one or more side walls configured to accommodate folding means such as folding grooves which facilitate folding a portion of said side walls. The function of the groove folding area typically relates to providing a guided folding mechanism, in the present context one or more folding grooves. A skilled person appreciates that the folding groove area and folding grooves defined herein extend over the whole or essentially the whole of the width of the side wall. Likewise, it is possible to have multiple folding groove areas distributed along a side wall at different heights above the base to allow a greater versatility on how the container is folded and the size and dimensions of the interior of the container is created when in the collapsed configuration.

[0058] Each side wall of the container described herein comprises a groove folding area, wherein at least two side walls comprise a groove folding area that comprises at least two folding grooves. In certain embodiments, two adjacent side walls comprise a groove folding area that comprises at least two folding grooves. In alternative embodiments, two opposed side walls comprise a groove folding area that comprises at least two folding grooves. In yet alternative embodiments, three of the four side walls comprise a groove folding area that comprises at least two folding grooves. In preferred embodiments, all four side walls comprise a groove folding area that comprises at least two folding grooves. Preferred side walls in the context of the present invention are formed as a single component (i.e. one side wall is made of one piece of material). However, a combination of two physically distinct side wall elements separated by a connecting element such as e.g. one or more hinges or other connecting elements which allow rotation of one element of the side wall around the connecting element may be envisaged. The connecting element may in such an embodiment be considered to have the same function as a groove in the groove folding area. The position (i.e. height) of the groove folding area is not particularly limiting for the invention and may be located on a height that is dependent on the particular goods to be stored, the height of transport means, the height of storage racks, etc. Hence, the groove folding area may be positioned at a height from the base that is 1 / 25, 1 / 20, 1 / 18, 1 / 16, 1 / 15, 1 / 14, 1 / 12, 1 / 10, 1 / 8, 1 / 6, 1 / 5, 1 / 4, 1 / 3, 1 / 2 the height of the side wall in an extended configuration of the container. Alternatively, the groove folding area may be positioned at a height from the top of the side wall that is 1 / 25, 1 / 20, 1 / 18, 1 / 16, 1 / 15, 1 / 14, 1 / 12, 1 / 10, 1 / 8, 1 / 6, 1 / 5, 1 / 4, 1 / 3, 1 / 2 the height of the side wall in an extended configuration of the container. Multiple groove folding areas may be positioned at the same side wall, at a height from the base from that is one of the following: at 1 / 25, 1 / 20, 1 / 18, 1 / 16, 1 / 15, 1 / 14, 1 / 12, 1 / 10, 1 / 8, 1 / 6, 1 / 5, 1 / 4, 1 / 3, 1 / 2 the height of the side wall when the side wall is in an extended configuration of the container. When multiple groove folding areas are present, it is possible to choose the available space which remains in the container after folding the container from its extended configuration to its folded configuration. Depending on the need, it is thus possible to provide for a container with specific dimensions allowing multiple containers to be stacked in a more efficient and ecological manner on e.g. a truck, thus reducing the number of trucks needed for transportation.

[0059] Similarly, the position (i.e. height) of the folding grooves is not particularly limiting for the invention and may be located on a height that is dependent on the particular goods to be stored, the height of transport means, the height of storage racks, etc. Hence, when a groove folding area comprises of two grooves, the centre between the two folding grooves may be positioned at a height from the base that is 1 / 25, 1 / 20, 1 / 18, 1 / 16, 1 / 15, 1 / 14, 1 / 12, 1 / 10, 1 / 8, 1 / 6, 1 / 5, 1 / 4, 1 / 3, 1 / 2 the height of the side wall in an extended configuration of the container. Alternatively and / or in combination with the foregoing, the centre between the folding grooves may be positioned at a height from the top of the side wall that is 1 / 25, 1 / 20, 1 / 18, 1 / 16, 1 / 15, 1 / 14, 1 / 12, 1 / 10, 1 / 8, 1 / 6, 1 / 5, 1 / 4, 1 / 3, 1 / 2 the height of the side wall in an extended configuration of the container. If only one groove is present in a groove folding area in a side wall, the groove may be positioned at a height from the base that is 1 / 25, 1 / 20, 1 / 18, 1 / 16, 1 / 15, 1 / 14, 1 / 12, 1 / 10, 1 / 8, 1 / 6, 1 / 5, 1 / 4, 1 / 3, 1 / 2 the height of the side wall in an extended configuration of the container.

[0060] The distance between the at least two folding grooves in the groove folding area is not limiting for the invention. However, a skilled person appreciates that in order to function in an optimal manner and for the container to achieve all beneficial technical effect listed throughout the present disclosure the two folding grooves should be positioned at a distance such that no sizeable third side wall element is generated upon folding the container in the collapsed configuration. The optimal distance between the at least two folding grooves is dependent on the thickness of the side walls. Optionally, the distance between the folding grooves is about the thickness of a side wall, or about the thickness of two side walls, or the thickness of about three side walls, or about the thickness of about four side walls. In certain embodiments, the distance between the at least two folding grooves in the distinct side walls differ for each side wall of the container and the container can be folded according to an optimal folding procedure (i.e. first folding (a) side wall(s) with relatively little space between the at least two folding grooves and subsequently folding (a) side wall(s) with relatively much space between the at least two folding grooves). In alternative embodiments, two adjacent or two opposing side walls have a first distance between the at least two folding grooves, and the other two adjacent or other two opposing side walls have a second distance between the at least two folding grooves.

[0061] The particulars of the folding grooves are not limiting for the context of the present invention and refer to any shape which facilitates manipulation of the side wall by folding. Hence, illustrative examples of folding grooves envisaged by the present disclosure include without limitation V-folding grooves, U-folding grooves, hinge folding grooves, score folding grooves, living hinge folding grooves, accordion folding grooves, double score folding grooves, W-folding grooves, or any combination thereof. A skilled person appreciates that the optimal type of folding grooves will depend inter alia on the material of the container. Particularly preferred folding grooves for containers made from a polymer material are V-folding grooves, U-folding grooves, and score folding grooves. V-folding grooves are typically V-shaped grooves incising the side wall at an angle of between about 30° and 120°, preferably at an angle of between about 60° and 100°, preferably at an angle of about 90°. U-folding grooves are typically U-shaped with a round bottom. Score grooves are typically formed by a shallow cut or indentation. Optionally, at the deepest point of indentation the groove penetrates the thickness of the side wall by about 10% or more, preferably by about 20% or more, preferably by about 30% or more, preferably by about 40% or more, preferably by about 50% or more, preferably by about 50% or more, preferably by about 60% or more, preferably by about 70% or more, preferably by about 80% or more, preferably by about 90% or more. Optionally, the deepest point of indentation the groove penetrates the thickness of the side wall from about 10% to about 90%, preferably from about 20% to about 80%, preferably from about 30% to about 70%, preferably from about 40% to about 60%, preferably about 50%.

[0062] Preferably, the container is receptive to a top lid in the extended or collapsed configuration. More preferably, the container is receptive to a top lid in both the extended and collapsed configuration. A top lid may serve different purposes, for example ensuring proper sealing of the container to protect the goods or securing the goods from theft. Numerous top lids have been described throughout the art and include without limitation a snap-on lid, a clamshell lid, a press-on lid, and a flip-flop lid. Optionally, the container is configured to comprise a sealing mechanism between the side walls and the top lid, such as but not limited to a rim gasket, snap tabs or snap closure, a compression seal, a latch, interlocking rims, or any combination thereof. Preferably, the top lid has substantially the same shape as the base of the container. Optionally, corner pieces may assist in providing a fit between the top lid and the side of the container. In certain embodiments, said corner pieces are an integral component of the top lid. In alternative embodiments, said corner pieces are mountable pieces on the corners of the side walls. Further design considerations of the top lid are not limiting for the invention. Hence, the top lid may be a flat wall, or a wall that comprises further recesses or indented portions to facilitate transport and / or stacking of the container to a second container of the same type, or a second container of a type wherein the lower portion is compatible for stacking on the top lid of the container. Optionally, the top lid may contain a translucent element to facilitate visual inspection of the contents of the container. In some embodiments, the container is covered by the top lid.

[0063] Preferably, the combination of the folding grooves are configured to position the first and the second side wall element such that the side wall elements form an angle α in the extended configuration of about 180° and / or the combination of the folding grooves are configured to position the first and the second side wall element such that the side wall elements forms an angle α in the collapsed configuration of about 90°. A skilled person appreciates that angle α should be measured as the angle formed on the interior of the container. Thus, it is to be appreciated that in the extended configuration, both side wall elements of the side walls of the container are positioned substantially perpendicular to the base and wherein in the collapsed configuration at least the second side wall elements of the side walls of the container are positioned substantially parallel to the base, and to the interior of the container (i.e. inward-folding of the second wall elements of the side walls).

[0064] Optionally, the groove folding area and / or the folding grooves of opposing side walls are located on the same height. Alternatively, the groove folding area and / or the folding grooves of adjacent side walls are located on the same height. Yet alternatively, the groove folding area and / or the folding grooves of all four side walls are located on the same height. Optionally, the groove folding area and / or the folding grooves of opposing side walls are located on a different height. Alternatively, the groove folding area and / or the folding grooves of adjacent side walls are located on a different height. Yet alternatively, the groove folding area and / or the folding grooves of all four side walls are located on a different height. Optionally, the lower folding groove of opposing side walls is located on the same height and the upper folding groove of opposing side walls is located on a different height. Optionally, the lower folding groove of adjacent side walls is located on the same height and the upper folding groove of adjacent side walls is located on a different height. Optionally, the lower folding groove of all side walls is located on the same height and the upper folding groove of all side walls is located on a different height. Optionally, the upper folding groove of opposing side walls is located on the same height and the lower folding groove of opposing side walls is located on a different height. Optionally, the upper folding groove of adjacent side walls is located on the same height and the lower folding groove of adjacent side walls is located on a different height. Optionally, the upper folding groove of all side walls is located on the same height and the lower folding groove of all side walls is located on a different height. Optionally, all folding grooves of all four side walls are located on different heights.

[0065] As described above, the exact position of the folding groove area is not particularly limiting for the invention. Thus, the folding groove area may be located in the side wall such that the collapsed configuration comprises a storage capacity that is about 1 / 2 or less, preferably about 1 / 3 or less, preferably about 1 / 4 or less, preferably about 1 / 5 or less, preferably about 1 / 6 or less, preferably about 1 / 7 or less, preferably about 1 / 8 or less, preferably about 1 / 9 or less, preferably about 1 / 10 or less, preferably about 1 / 12 or less, preferably about 1 / 15 or less, preferably about 1 / 20 or less, of the storage capacity in the extended configuration.

[0066] A further advantage of the invention is that the physical integrity of the side walls is maintained even after repeatably folding the container from the extended configuration to the collapsed configuration and vice versa. Hence, the container envisaged in the present disclosure is not a disposable, one time use type of container. A further advantage of maintaining the physical integrity of the side walls is that these side walls effectively remain wind and water proof, without a necessity for further design consideration to obtain these characteristics. In addition, upon manufacturing the side walls may be manufactured from a single piece of material of an appropriate dimension and shape and introducing a folding groove area in said wall.

[0067] Preferably, the container comprises at least two securing mechanisms configured to fixate the side walls of the container when the container is in the extended configuration. The specific characteristics of the securing mechanism is not particularly limiting for the invention.

[0068] "Securing mechanism" as used throughout the present disclosure refers to any system, device, tool, or component having as a function to hold the side walls of the container described herein fixated in place, i.e. fixate their relative position and orientation to each other. Hence, a securing mechanism ensures that the side walls remain securely attached to and aligned with each other, maintaining the structural integrity and shape of the container as a whole. The securing mechanism prevents the side walls from collapsing, shifting, or becoming detached when the container is used. Suitable securing mechanisms include without limitation interlocking tabs, latches, hinges with locking features, clips, or any fastener that provides a robust physical interaction between the side walls of the container. The material of the securing mechanism is not limiting for the invention.

[0069] Preferably a single securing mechanism fixates the relative position of two adjacent side walls vis-à-vis each other. More preferably, the container comprises two opposing side walls each equipped with two securing mechanisms on each side end of said walls to fixate the relative position of all side walls vis-à-vis each other. In certain embodiments, securing mechanisms are provided on two opposing side walls at different heights, such as near the top, the middle, or even the bottom of the side wall. A skilled person appreciates that any such combination is envisaged by the present disclosure.

[0070] A preferred securing mechanism in the context of the present invention comprises a first leg positioned on a first side of a side wall, a second leg positioned on a second side of the side wall, and a rotating means positioned through an opening in the side wall, the rotating means connecting a first end of the first leg with a first end of the second leg. Preferably, a connecting leg connecting a second end of the first leg with a second end of the second leg. In this case, a recess is foreseen in the neighbouring side wall to allow the securing mechanism to pivot from an upright vertical position away from the recess to a horizontal position and into the recess of the neighbouring side wall. "Recess" as used throughout the present disclosure refers to any kind of opening or cut-out in the neighbouring or adjacent side wall of the side wall which holds the securing mechanism. The recess is preferably foreseen in the top of the neighbouring side wall and towards its side edge.

[0071] Preferably a single securing mechanism fixates the relative position of two adjacent side walls vis-à-vis each other by rotating the securing mechanism such that one of the legs is placed inside the recess and the connecting leg is positioned on the outside of the side walls. More preferably, the container comprises a first set of two opposing side walls each equipped with two securing mechanisms on each side end of said side walls, and a second set of two opposing side walls each equipped with two recesses on each side end of the said side walls to fixate the relative position of all side walls vis-à-vis each other.

[0072] A preferred securing mechanism in the context of the present invention comprises a first leg positioned on a first side of a side wall, a second leg positioned on a second side of the side wall, a rotating means positioned through an opening in the side wall, the rotating means connecting a first end of the first leg with a first end of the second leg, a connecting leg connecting a second end of the first leg with a second end of the second leg, and a recess in a neighbouring side wall of the side wall which holds the securing mechanism.

[0073] Although the above described embodiments of the securing mechanism will provide for a secure connection between two neighbouring side walls, it may be preferable to add an extension to the side wall holding the recess having as a function to increase the clamping force of the securing mechanism on the side walls. "Extension" as used throughout the present disclosure refers to any kind of element which may be positioned in between the side wall holding the securing mechanism and the inner leg of the securing mechanism facing the interior of the container. Such an extension may be foreseen over the entire length of the edge of the side wall, or it may be limited to the area where the securing mechanism is located on the neighbouring side wall. The extension may be formed by bending the edge of the side wall under 90° or may be a separate element connected to the side wall such that the extension will be located towards the interior of the container when the container is in its extended configuration. The material of the extension is not limiting for the invention, but it may be preferred to use the same material of the side walls to enhance the rigidity of the entire side wall. Preferably, such an extension is foreseen on each side edge of the side wall facing the neighbouring side wall.

[0074] "Locking mechanism" as used throughout the present disclosure refers to any system, device, tool, or component having as a function to lock the side walls of the container described herein in place, i.e. lock their relative position and orientation to each other and prevent any movement from a side wall relative to a neighbouring side wall. Hence, a locking mechanism ensures that the side walls remain securely locked to and aligned with each other, maintaining the structural integrity and shape of the container as a whole. As is the case with the securing mechanism, the locking mechanism equally prevents the side walls from collapsing, shifting, or becoming unintendedly detached when the container is in use. Suitable locking mechanisms include without limitation interlocking tabs, rotating latches, clips, or any fastener that provides a robust physical interaction between the side walls of the container. The material of the securing mechanism is not limiting for the invention.

[0075] Preferably a single locking mechanism fixates and locks the relative position of two adjacent side walls vis-à-vis each other. More preferably, the container comprises two opposing side walls each equipped with two locking mechanisms on each side end of said side walls to fixate the relative position of all side walls vis-à-vis each other. Preferably, the locking mechanisms are positioned a distance below the top edge of the side wall. In certain embodiments, locking mechanisms are provided on two opposing side walls at different heights, such as closer to the top, the middle, or even the bottom of the side wall. A skilled person appreciates that any such combination is envisaged by the present disclosure.

[0076] A first preferred locking mechanism in the context of the present invention comprises a first element connected directly or indirectly to a first side wall and a second element connected directly or indirectly to a second, neighbouring side wall. When the first element and second element are inserted into one another, one element may rotate compared to the other, thus effectively locking one element with respect to the other element. The two side walls are locked to each other and unable to move away from one another.

[0077] A second preferred locking mechanism in the context of the present invention comprises a first element connected directly or indirectly to a first side wall and a second element connected directly or indirectly to a second, neighbouring side wall. The first element has a slot and a blocking element working together with the slot to effectively receive and block a protruding locking element from the second element. When the second element is inserted into the first element, the second element may rotate compared to the first element, thus effectively locking the protruding element and thus the second element with respect to the first element. The two side walls are locked to each other and hence unable to move away from one another.

[0078] Both the first and second preferred locking mechanisms may have a handle attached to the outer shell element of the first element to allow easy manipulation of the locking mechanisms.

[0079] The container of the present invention is preferably foreseen with reinforcement elements such as reinforcement corners and reinforcement slats. "Reinforcement elements" as used throughout the present disclosures refers to any system or element, device or component having as a function to stabilise and / or reinforce the container described herein and to securely connect the lower part of each side wall of the container to the base of the container. Further, such reinforcement elements may be configured to extend above the side walls when the container is in its folded configuration, thus allowing the top lid to be placed above the folded side walls and thus effectively shielding these side walls.

[0080] Optionally, one or more side walls are characterised by at least one translucent element to facilitate visual inspection of the contents of the container in the extended and / or collapsed configuration. The at least one translucent element of the side wall(s) may be positioned in the first side wall element, the second side wall element, or a combination thereof.

[0081] In some embodiments, one or more access flaps are present in one or more side walls. Especially for larger foldable container sizes, these access flaps may be used for better access to goods inside the foldable container. In some embodiments, the sidewalls may comprise openings and / or cut-outs.

[0082] Optionally, one or more of the side walls may be provided with a further foldable wall that can be configured either substantially parallel to the base or substantially parallel to the side wall(s) in the extended configuration of the container. Such further foldable walls, preferably connected to the inner side of the side wall with a hinge may act as a further base, or partial base to store goods on a further height. Upon folding of the side walls to place the container in a collapsed configuration, the thickness of the further foldable wall(s) are also mitigated by the two folding grooves.

[0083] In some embodiments, the container top lid comprises a handle, preferably a handle attached to or in the edge, preferably the front side edge. As the arc made during opening and closing can be high, a handle on top of the container cover is often not accessible for the operator during the opening or closing manoeuvre. A handle in the front edge is more accessible.

[0084] The term "dismountable" refers to the attachment between elements being temporary but stable. The elements can be detached by the application of force.

[0085] While the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications, and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art in light of the foregoing description. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications, and variations as follows in the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims. The herein disclosed aspects and embodiments of the invention are further supported by the following non-limiting examples.EXAMPLES

[0086] Figure 1A shows a perspective view of a container 1 foreseen with a top lid 40 placed on a loading pallet 150 according to the present invention. The container 1 being in its extended configuration having a first storage capacity 20. The container 1 comprises a base 10 and four side walls in total, of which two side walls 12, 14 are visible in figure 1. Dotted lines are shown on the side walls 12, 14, which are parallel to the base 10, the dotted lines represent the folding grooves 36, 38. Both folding grooves 36, 38 are located in their respective groove folding area 30 and are positioned substantially parallel to the base 10. Each side wall 12, 14 is foreseen with such a groove folding area 30. The first side wall 12 has a groove folding area 30 in which the first groove 36 and the second groove 38 are spaced apart a first certain distance from each other. The second side wall 14 has a groove folding area 30 in which the first groove 36 and second groove 38 are space apart a second certain distance from each other. The first distance between the grooves on the first side wall 12 being larger than the second distance between the grooves on the second side wall 14. Further, the upper groove 36 of the first side wall 12 is positioned lower than the lower groove 38 of the second side wall 14, such that the groove folding area 30 of the first side wall 12 is positioned lower than the groove folding area 30 of the second side wall 14. Each side wall 12, 14, 16, 18 is divided into a first side wall element 32 positioned below its respective groove folding area 30, and a second side wall element 34 which is positioned above its respective groove folding area 30.

[0087] Each of the corners of the container 1 are foreseen with a reinforcement elements such as a reinforcement corner 160. The reinforcement corners 160 allow the side walls 12, 14, 16, 18 to be connected to the base 10 in a secure and safe manner. The reinforcement corner 160 of the embodiment shown in figure 1A comprises a first part which can be connected with the first side wall element 32 of the first side wall 12, a second part which can be connected with the first side wall element of the second side wall 14, and a rounded edge placed between the first and second part. The first part, second part and rounded edge are preferably made as a single piece but optionally may be formed of separate parts which are connected to each other via connecting means to form a reinforcement corner 160. The first part and the second part of the reinforcement corner 160 may have different dimensions or may be similar in shape. In figure 1A, the second part of the reinforcement corner 160 has as an L-shape form, while the first part is formed as a rectangle. The L-shaped form of the second part of the reinforcement corner 160 facilitates an easy connection with the base 10 of the container. Multiple holes 170 are foreseen in the reinforcement corners 160 to allow a securing element such as a bolt or rivet to go through the hole 170 and connect the reinforcement corner 160 with the first side wall element 32 of the side wall 12, 14, 16, 18 and / or the base 10. The base 10 may thus be connected to the reinforcement corners 160 and indirectly to the side walls 12, 14, 16, 18. Between two adjacent reinforcement corners 160, an additional reinforcement bar 180 may be present to allow the base to be securely kept in place when installed inside the container 1. Such reinforcement bar 180 may run from one reinforcement corner 160 to the other reinforcement corner 160 or may have a length shorter than the entire length needed to bridge the distance from one reinforcement corner 160 to the next reinforcement corner 160. Figure 1A further shows two securing mechanisms 50, 50' which are pivotably connected to the second side wall 14. The two securing mechanisms 50, 50' are in its securing position, whereby the securing mechanism is cooperating with the first side wall 12 and third side wall 16 to keep the side walls in an upright and extended position. The securing mechanisms 50, 50' are installed close to the top edge 62 of the side wall 14 such that the top of the securing mechanism can pivot around the corner of the side wall 14. Further, two locking mechanisms 90, 90' are shown which are able to lock or unlock the first side wall 12 with the second side wall 14, and the second side wall 14 with the third side wall 16. In figure 1A, the container 1 is thus shown with securing mechanisms 50, 50' near the top edge 62 of the side walls 12, 14, and locking mechanisms 90, 90' substantially halfway from the top edge 62 of the side walls 12, 14. Also, two locking mechanisms 100, 100' are shown. These locking mechanisms 100, 100' are provided on the second 14 and fourth 18 side wall and will cooperate with a counter element which is foreseen on extensions 7 of the first 12 and third 16 side walls.

[0088] Although not shown, the side walls 12, 14, 16, 18 may comprise handles or handle opening to allow a user to easily manipulate the side walls when bringing the container and thus the side walls from their extended configuration to their collapsed configuration and vice versa. These handles may be connected to the side wall as a separate piece, or may be formed together with the wall as a single plastic injection part. Additionally, it is possible to use these handles, or openings provided in these handles to attach straps to or through the openings in the handles. As such, straps can be placed around the circumference of the container 1 and container top lid 40 to secure the container top lid 40 to the container 1.

[0089] The container top lid 40 is foreseen with recesses 41 to allow a user to easily manipulate the top lid 40 when opening or closing the container 1 with the top lid 40. Although recesses 41 are shown in figure 1A, openings or cut-outs are likewise possible, although not preferred since such openings will still allow dust, water, debris or other unwanted material to enter the container 1 when the lid 40 is positioned on top of the container 1.

[0090] Figure 1B shows a perspective top view of the container 1 foreseen with a top lid 40 placed on a loading pallet 150, the container 1 as shown in figure 1B is in its collapsed configuration and has a second storage capacity 22 which is smaller than the first storage capacity 20 when the container 1 was in its extended configuration. As is clear from figure 1B, the side walls 12, 14, 16, 18 are folded inwardly such that the second side wall elements 34 of each side wall 12, 14, 16, 18, are now placed substantially parallel to the base 10 and positioned below the reinforcement corners 160. The first side wall elements 32 of each side wall 12, 14, 16, 18 remains in its upright position and still functions as a side wall of the collapsed container 1, thus effectively shielding and securing items which are placed and stored inside the container 1 before moving the side walls 12, 14, 16, 18 of the container 1 from the extended configuration to the collapsed configuration.

[0091] Figure 2 shows a perspective top view of the container 1 in its extended configuration as shown in figure 1A without the top lid 40 installed on top of the container 1 to allow a view inside the container 1. Further, figure 2 represents a container with only a securing mechanism near the top edge 62 of the side wall. The reinforcement corners 160 of the container 1 as shown in figure 2 are slightly different than the reinforcement corners 160 of the container 1 as shown in figure 1A. The reinforcement corners 160 as shown in figure 2 have a first part which is formed as a square, while the second part of the reinforcement corner 160 has as a trapeze shaped form. Further, the securing mechanisms 50, 50', 51, 51' are positioned such that the end opposite from the rotating end is extending over the side edges 64, 68 of the side wall when positioned in the securing position. In order for the securing mechanisms 50, 50', 51, 51' to be able to extend over the corner and to the side edge of the side wall, a recess 75 is foreseen in the neighbouring side wall, thus allowing the movement of the inner leg of the securing mechanism 50, 50', 51, 51' inside this recess 75. Although not shown, the securing mechanisms 50, 50', 51, 51' may not reach all the way to the side edge 64, 68 of the side wall when positioned in the securing position. Such securing mechanisms may thus have a first leg 52 positioned on the outer surface of the side wall to which they are connected, a second leg 54 positioned on the inner surface of the side wall to which they are connected, and a rotating means 53, 55 positioned through an opening 60 in the side wall. Securing two neighbouring side walls with each other occurs by moving the securing mechanism from an uprightly, generally vertical and free position to a generally horizontal and securing position, thus clamping the two neighbouring side walls 12, 14; 14, 16; 16, 18; 18, 12 together.

[0092] Figure 3 shows a cross section of the container 1 in its collapsed configuration as shown in figure 1B. All four side walls 12, 14, 16, 18 are folded inwardly such that a smaller inner storage capacity 22 is created by the vertically erected first side wall elements 32 of each of the side walls 12, 14, 16, 18 and the base 10. The base 10 may be placed on top of a loading pallet 150 or may form an integral part therewith. Reinforcement corners 160 are placed on the corners of the loading pallet 150 to facilitate the connection of the base 10 with the loading pallet 150 and to connect the side walls 12, 14, 16, 18 with the base 10 and indirectly to the loading pallet 150. Each reinforcement corner 160 is at its bottom end foreseen with a U-shaped bracket 162. The U-shaped bracket 162 is configured to receive an edge of the side wall 12, 14, 16, 18, more particularly the edge of the first side wall element 32. When the edge of the first side wall element 32 is placed inside the U-shaped bracket 162, the edge of the first side wall element 32 is unable to slide away from the reinforcement corner 160. Although not visible on figure 3, a connecting element such as a bolt or a rivet is used to fixedly connect the first side wall element 32 to the reinforcement corner 160. Therefore, holes 170 are foreseen in the reinforcement corners 160 to allow e.g. a rivet to go through the hole 170 and the first side wall element 32 thus securing the first side wall element 32 and the side wall itself to the reinforcement corner 160 and thus the base 10 and the loading pallet 150. The reinforcement corners 160 are configured such that their top surface is a greater distance d 1 above the base 10 than the distance d 2 between the surface of the second side wall element 34 of the upper most side wall 18 when the container 1 is in its folded configuration and the base 10. The container top lid 40 can be placed on top of these reinforcement corners 160 such that, once the top lid 40 is positioned on top of the reinforcement corners 160, the top lid 40 will shield the underlaying elements such as the side walls 12, 14, 16, 18 and any of the goods that are placed into the inner storage space 22 of the container 1. From figure 3, it is clear that the side walls 12, 14, 16, 18 are folded inwardly one after the other so that the second side wall element 34 of the next folded side wall will lay above the second side wall element 34 of the previously folded side wall. In figure 3, the first side wall 12 is folded inwardly first. The second side wall element 34 of the first side wall 12 thus being the closest to the base 10 of the container 1. The second side wall element 34 of the first side wall 12 being substantially parallel to the base 10 when completely folded inwardly. The area 22 below this second side wall element 34 of the first side wall 12 defines the available space in which goods can be placed after bringing all the side walls to their inwardly folded configuration. The third side wall 16 is positioned above the first side wall 12, such that the second side wall element 34 of the third side wall 16 lays directly above the second side wall element 34 of the first side wall 12. The second side wall element 34 being substantially parallel to the base 10 and to the second side wall element 34 of the first side wall 12 when completely folded inwardly. Both the first 12 and third 16 side walls 64, 68 are foreseen with extensions 70, 72. The extensions 70, 72 are formed by folding the respective side edges 64, 68 of the first 12 and third 16 side walls over about 90°. Alternatively, an additional extension such as an L-shaped slat may be connected to the inner wall of the first 12 and third 16 side walls at each side edge 64, 68 as to form a similar extension as when the edges would be folded inwardly over about 90°.

[0093] The second side wall 14 is positioned above the first 12 and third 16 side wall, the second side wall element 34 of the second side wall 14 laying directly above the second side wall element 34 of the third side wall 16. The second side wall element 34 of the third side wall 16 is positioned in between the second side wall element 34 of the first side wall 12 and the second side wall element 34 of the second side wall 14. The second side wall element 34 of the second side wall 14 being substantially parallel to the base 10, to the second side wall element 34 of the first side wall 12 and to the second side wall element 34 of the third side wall 16 when completely folded inwardly. As is clear from figure 3, the second side wall 14 is foreseen with grooves 36, 38, the second side wall element 34 of the second side wall 14 being folded inwardly around the first groove 36 as to close the gap inside the groove 36. The second groove 38 remains in its original open state, thus still showing the gap in the groove 38. By folding the second side wall element 34 at the location of the groove 36, the second side wall element 34 will now be positioned at an angle α of about 90° with respect to the first side wall element 32 and a distance d 3 above the base 10.

[0094] Finally, the fourth side wall 18 is positioned above the first 12, third 16 and second 14 side wall, the second side wall element 34 of the fourth side wall 18 laying directly above the second side wall element 34 of the second side wall 14. The second side wall element 34 of the second side wall 14 is positioned in between the second side wall element 34 of the third side wall 16 and the second side wall element 34 of the fourth side wall 18. The second side wall element 34 of the fourth side wall 18 being substantially parallel to the base 10, to the second side wall element 34 of the first side wall 12, to the second side wall element 34 of the third side wall 16, and to the second side wall element 34 of the second side wall 14 when completely folded inwardly. The fourth side wall 18 is foreseen with grooves 36, 38 and the second side wall element 34 of the second side wall 18 being folded inwardly around the second groove 38 as to close the gap inside the groove 38. The groove 36 remains in its original open state, thus still showing the gap in the groove 36. By folding the second side wall element 34 at the location of the groove 38, the second side wall element 34 will now be positioned at an angle α of about 90° with respect to the first side wall element 32 and a distance d 2 above the base 10. The distance d 2 being greater than the distance d 3 .

[0095] Both the second 14 and fourth 18 side walls are foreseen with securing mechanisms 50, 51. The securing mechanisms 50, 51 as shown in figure 3 comprises a first leg 52 positioned on a first, outer surface of the side wall 14, 18, a second leg 54 positioned on a second, inner surface of the side wall 14, 18 and a rotating connecting means 53, 55, connecting the first leg 52 with the second leg 54 through an opening in the side wall 14, 18.

[0096] Figure 4A shows a perspective view of the side walls 14, 18 of the container 1. The side wall being position in a fully extended and upright position such that the first side wall element 32 and the second side wall element 34 are positioned substantially in line with each other and form an angle α of about 180°. A groove folding area 30 is foreseen in the side wall, thus dividing the side wall into a first side wall element 32 located below the groove folding area 30 and a second side wall element 34 located above the groove folding area 30. The groove folding area 30 is formed by a first groove 36 and a second groove 38, the first groove 36 being positioned below the second groove 38, such that the first groove 36 connects with the first side wall element 32 and the second groove 38 connects with the second side wall element 34. As shown in figure 4A, both grooves 36, 38 are substantially parallel to the top 62 and bottom 66 edge of the side wall. Although a minimal distance between the grooves 36, 38 is present in the embodiment as shown in figure 4A, it may be possible to foresee a greater distance between these grooves 36, 38 such that some more clearance is given between the two grooves 36, 38 and the space between the second side wall element 34 of the second side wall 14 and the second side wall 34 of the fourth side wall 18 can be positioned at a greater distance from each other when the side walls 14, 18 are in the inwardly folded configuration.

[0097] In figure 4A, it is shown that for the second 14 and fourth 18 side wall, the width of the first side wall element 32 is smaller than the width of the second side wall element 34 and an indentation is thus foreseen at the location of the groove folding area 30.

[0098] Near the top edge 62 of the side wall 14, 18, two holes 60 are foreseen, in particular a hole 60 on each side edge 64, 68 of the side wall 14, 18. The holes 60 are configured to facilitate the mounting of the securing mechanism 50, 50', 51, 51' to the side walls 14, 18.

[0099] In figure 4B, a perspective view of the side walls 12 and 16 of the container 1 are shown. Similar to the side walls 14, 18, a groove folding area 30 is foreseen, formed by a first groove 38 and a second groove 38, the first groove 36 being positioned below the second groove 38, such that the first groove 36 connects with the first side wall element 32 and the second groove 38 connects with the second side wall element 34. As shown in figure 4B, both grooves 36, 38 are substantially parallel to the top 62 and bottom 66 edge of the side wall. The distance between the grooves 36, 38 as shown in figure 4B, has a greater distance between the grooves 36, 38 compared to the distance provided in the side wall of figure 4A. Hence, a different clearance is given between the two grooves 36, 38 and the space between the second side wall element 34 of the side wall and the base 10 can thus vary depending on the positions of these grooves;.

[0100] In figure 4B, it is shown that for the first 12 and third 16 side wall, the width of the first side wall element 32 is smaller than the width of the second side wall element 34 and an indentation is thus foreseen at the location of the groove folding area 30. The indentations of the first 12 and third 16 side walls are greater than the indentations of the second 14 and fourth 18 side walls.

[0101] Further, extension 70, 72 are foreseen on the first 12 and third 16 side walls by folding an extra width of the second side wall element 34 inwardly over about 90°. Such extensions 70, 72 foreseen on the first 12 and third 16 side wall will allow the side edges 64, 68 of the second 14 and fourth 18 side walls to be in close contact with the side edges 64', 68' of the first 12 and third 16 side wall when the side walls 12, 14, 16, 18 of the container 1 are in the extended configuration.

[0102] Figures 5A and 5B show a side view of the second side wall 14 an fourth side wall 18 as shown in figure 4. In figure 5A, the side wall 14, 18 is folded at the second groove 38 located in the groove folding area 30, thus dividing the side wall 14, 18 into a first side wall element 32 located below the groove folding area 30 and remaining in an upright, vertical position, and a second side wall element 34 above the groove folding area 30 such that the second side wall element 34 is now positioned horizontally. When folding the second side wall element 34 around the groove 38, the gap in the groove 38 is effectively closed and due to the shape of the gap in the groove 38, the second side wall element 34 can form an angle α of about 90°, preferably 90°, with the first side wall element 32 when the gap in the groove 38 is closed.

[0103] In figure 5B, the side wall 14, 18 is folded at a first groove 36 located in the groove folding area 30, thus dividing the side wall 14, 18 into a first side wall element 32 located below the groove folding area 30 and remaining in an upright, vertical position, and a second side wall element 34 above the groove folding area 30 such that the second side wall element 34 is now positioned horizontally. When folding the second side wall element 34 around the groove 36, the gap in the groove 36 is effectively closed and due to the shape of the gap in the groove 36, the second side wall element 34 can form an angle α of about 90°, preferably 90°, with the first side wall element 32 when the gap in the groove 36 is closed. Depending on which groove 36, 38 is used to rotate the second side wall element 34 around, a distance d 2 or d 3 is achieved from the bottom edge 66 of the side wall 14, 18 to the top of the now folded side wall 14, 18.

[0104] A similar groove folding area 30 is foreseen in the first 12 and third 16 side wall, allowing the second side wall elements 34 of the first 12 and third 16 side wall to fold inwardly around their grooves 36 or 38.

[0105] Although it is preferred to use only one of the grooves 36, 38 to rotate the second side wall element 34 around, it is also possible for the second side wall element to rotate about both grooves 36, 38. In such an event, both the first folding groove 36 and second folding groove 38 will each be folded in an angle exceeding 90° such that the combined fold will amount to an angle α of about 90°. That way, a variable height of the second side wall element 34 above the base 10 can be accomplished.

[0106] Figure 6 shows a detailed perspective view of the container 1 in its extended configuration, top lid 40 placed on top of the container 1 and a securing mechanism 50 securing the first side wall 12 with the second side wall 14. The top lid 40 is foreseen with a recess 41 allowing a user to easily remove the top lid from or place the top lid 40 on the extended container. Although in figure 6, only one recess 41 is visible on the top surface of the top lid 40, multiple recesses 41 may be provided distributed over the entire top surface of the top lid 40 or even on the side surfaces of the top lid 40. Alternatively or additionally, one or more handle may be provided on the top surface and / or on the side surfaces of the top lid 40 such that the user has the option to choose from the variety of recesses 41 and / or handles distributed over the top lid 40 for easy removal and placement of the top lid 40 on the container 1. The securing mechanism 50 is provided on the second side wall 14 and is in its securing position, where the securing mechanism 50 is positioned substantially horizontally and parallel to the top edge 62 of the side wall 14. The securing mechanism 50 is located in the vicinity of the upper right corner of the second side wall 14, close to the top edge 62 and the side edge 64 of the second side wall 14. The first leg 52 of the securing mechanism 50 is positioned on the outer surface side of the second side wall 14 and is able to pivot together with its second leg 54 around the rotating means 53, 55 which is provided in the opening 60 of the second side wall 14. The connecting leg 56 bridging the first 52 and second 54 leg is placed over the side edge 64 of the second side wall 14. Although not visible in figure 6, in order for the connecting leg 56 to be placed over the side edge 64, the second leg 54 is positioned inside a recess 75 provided in the adjacent first side wall 12. A rim 57 is foreseen on the rotating means 53 providing for the necessary space to allow the second side wall 14 and the extension 70 to fit in between the first 52 and second 54 leg. An additional recess 76 is provided at the top edge 62 of the second side wall 14 to cooperate with a securing mechanism 50, 50', 51, 51'. When the securing mechanism is no longer in its securing position, thus in the position where the connecting leg 56 is placed over the side edge 56, but moved over to is free position, the connecting leg 56 can be positioned in this recess 76 such that the first 52 and second 54 legs of the securing mechanism can again be positioned substantially horizontal such that securing mechanism is not placed on the top edge 62 of the side wall but can be positioned below the top edge 62.

[0107] Figures 7A to 7C show a detailed perspective view of the first 12 and second 14 side walls of the container 1 and securing mechanism 50 in its securing position thus holding the first side wall 12 in a close connecting with the second side wall 14. In figure 7A a detailed view of the securing mechanism 50 is shown from the outside of the container 1, figure 7B shows a detailed top view of the securing mechanism, and figure 7C shows a detailed view of the securing mechanism from the inside of the container. The securing mechanism 50 is connected through opening 60 to the second side wall 14. The securing mechanism 50 is positioned in a substantially horizontal position, thus securing the first 12 and second 14 side wall with each other. A recess 75 is foreseen in the first side wall 12 allowing the second leg 54 to move in the recess 75 towards its substantially horizontal position. The recess 75 is configured such that the depth of the recess 75 allows the second leg 54 to rest on the inner bottom edge of the recess 75 and to position the first 52 and second 54 leg in a substantially horizontal position. The first side wall 12 is foreseen with an extension 70, which is formed by bending the edge 68 over about 90° inwardly. When the first side wall 12 and the second side wall 14 are in their extended configuration, the extension 70 will be positioned near the inner side of the second side wall 14. The securing mechanism 50 is able to secure the first side wall 12 with the second side wall 14 by rotation of the first 52, second 54 and connecting 56 leg from a generally vertical position to a generally horizontal position.. The second side wall 14 and extension 70 of the first side wall 12 will then be clamped in between the first 52, second 54 and connecting 56 legs of the securing mechanism 50, thus preventing mutual movement of the first 12 and second 14 side walls. The rotating connecting means 53 is foreseen with a handle 58 to facilitate easy manipulation of the securing mechanism 50, the handle 58 being positioned on the inside of the container 1 when the container is in its extended configuration. Alternatively, a user may simply use one of the legs 52, 54, 56 to move the securing mechanism 50 from one position to the other.

[0108] Figures 8A to 8C show a detailed perspective view of the first 12 and second 14 side walls of the container 1 and securing mechanism 50 in its free vertical position, thus allowing movement between the first side wall 12 and the second side wall 14 relative to each other. Figure 8A shows a detailed view of the securing mechanism 50 from the outside of the container 1, figure 8B shows a detailed top view of the securing mechanism 50, and figure 8C shows a detailed view of the securing mechanism 50 from the inside of the container 1. When the securing mechanism 50 is in its upright, horizontal position, the second leg 54 is no longer present in the recess 75 of the first side wall 12 and the connecting leg 56 is no longer positioned over the edge 64 of the second side wall 14. Further, the second leg 54 no longer confines the upper part of the extension 70 of the first side wall 12. In this upright position of the securing mechanism 50, the first 12 and second 14 side wall can be moved away from each other so that they can be folded inwardly into a folded configuration of the container 1. As shown in figure 8B, the securing mechanism 50 can be rotated over about 180° such that the connecting leg 56 moves from a position where the connecting leg 56 is positioned over the edge 64 to a position where the connecting leg 56 is positioned in the recess 76. When the recess 76 is cut out sufficiently deep, the securing mechanism 50 can be rotated such that the first 52 and second 54 legs of the securing mechanism 50 is positioned below the top edge 62 of the side wall 14, 18.

[0109] In figure 9A, a detailed perspective view from the inside of the container 1 is shown, wherein the first 12 and second 14 side walls have moved a distance from each other. The securing mechanism 50 remains in its free, position allowing the side walls 12, 14 to move freely relative to each other without being hindered by the securing mechanism 50. In figures 9A to 9C, the securing mechanism 50 is rotated about 180° such that the connecting leg 56 is positioned in the recess 76. However, such a positioning is not absolutely necessary to allow movement of the side walls relative to each other. Even if the securing mechanism 50 is in a free, vertical position, such that the connecting leg 56 is no longer positioned in the recess 75, the side walls will be able to move relative to each other. In figure 9B, a detailed perspective view of the container 1 from the outside of the container 1is shown having a first 12, second 14 and fourth side walls, a first securing mechanism 50 connected to the second side wall 14, and a second securing mechanism 51 connected to the fourth side wall 18. As is clear from figures 9A and 9B, by placing both securing mechanisms 50, 51 in their free position, the first side wall 12 is able to pivot inwardly around one of the grooves 36, 38 provided in the groove folding area 30. Figure 9B shows an additional locking mechanism 100 installed on the second side wall 14 which can be used together with the securing mechanisms 50, 51 to lock and unlock neighbouring side walls with respect to each other to provide an additional locking between these two neighbouring side walls on top of the securing of these side walls by the securing mechanism 50, 51. Hence, an additional fixation point is provided between two neighbouring side walls increasing the efficient and reliable prevention of movement of the side walls relative to each other. On the opposite fourth side wall 18, a hole 61 is foreseen which allows the mounting of such an additional locking mechanism 100.

[0110] Figure 10A shows a detailed perspective outer view of the container 1, top lid 40, securing mechanism 50 and a first embodiment of the locking mechanism 90. Figure 10B shows a detailed perspective inner view of the container 1, the securing mechanism 50 and the first embodiment of the locking mechanism 90. Figure 10C shows a detailed perspective view of the first embodiment of the locking mechanism 90, 91 in the open, unlocked state. Figure 10D shows a detailed perspective view of the locking mechanism 90, 91 as shown in figure 10C, but now in the closed, locked state. The locking mechanism 90, 91 comprising a first element 92 connected to the extension 70 of the first side wall 12 through an opening (not shown) and a second element 93 connected to the second side wall 14 through an opening 61 foreseen in the second side wall 14. Such an opening needs to be located in the vicinity of the outer edge 64 of the second side wall 14 to allow a cooperation between the first element 92 when connected with the extension 70 of the first side wall 12 and the second element 93 when connected with the second side wall 14. Preferably, the locking mechanism 90 is provided halfway at the side wall to coordinate and optimise the working of the locking mechanism 90, 91 with the securing mechanism 50, 51. Alternatively, the locking mechanism 90, 91 may positioned at about 1 / 3 or less, about 1 / 4 or less, about 1 / 5 or less, about 1 / 6 or less, about 1 / 7 or less, about 1 / 8 or less, about 1 / 9 or less, about 1 / 10 or less, about 1 / 12 or less, about 1 / 15 or less or about 1 / 20 or less from the top edge 62 of the side wall.

[0111] The first element 92 comprises an outer shell element 95 having a slot 98, an inner shell element 96 having an abutment element 97, and a shoulder 89 positioned between the outer shell element 95 and the inner shell element 96. The outer shell element 95 is positioned on one side of the extension 70 of the first side wall 12 facing the second side wall 14, and the inner shell element 96 being positioned on the opposite side of the extension 70 of the first side wall 12 facing away from the second side wall 14. The slot 98 is positioned a distance apart from the abutment element 97. This distance is regulated by the thickness of the shoulder 89 which is positioned between the outer shell element 95 and the inner shell element 96. The thickness of the shoulder 89 may vary depending on the thickness of the extension wall 70.

[0112] The second element 93 comprising a locking element 94, the locking element 94 consisting of a protruding element and a round shaft. When installing the second element 93 on the second side wall 14, the round shaft will be pushed through a complementary hole in the second side wall 14 and fixedly be connected to the second element 93 to connect the second element 93 to the second side wall 14. The protruding locking element 94 being complementary to the shape of the slot 98 provided in the outer shell element 95. When the first side wall 12 and the second side wall 14 are in close proximity with each other, the second element 93 and particularly the protruding locking element 94 thereof can be pushed through the slot 98 of the outer shell element 95. Once the protruding locking element 94 is pushed through the slot 98, the protruding locking element 94 will be present between this slot 98 and the abutment element 97 preventing that the protruding locking element 94 can be pushed too far through the first element 92, see figure 10C. When locking the locking mechanism 90, the second element 93 and protruding locking element 94 will be rotated about 90° by turning a gripping element 99, such that the protruding element 94 is no longer aligned with the slot 98, and hence, movement between the first side wall 12 and the second side wall 14 is prohibited, see figure 10D.

[0113] Figures 11A to 11D show a detailed perspective view of a second embodiment of the locking mechanism 100. In figure 11A, a first side wall 12, second side wall 14 and fourth side wall 18 of the container 1 are shown, together with the securing mechanism 50 and the second embodiment of the locking mechanism 100. The securing mechanism 50 being in its free position and placed inside the recess 76, while the locking mechanism 100 is in its open, unlocked state. Figure 11B is similar to figure 11A, however in figure 11B, the locking mechanism 100 is shown in its closed, locked state. In figure 11C, a detailed perspective view is shown of the locking mechanism 100 in its unlocked state, shown from the inside of the container 1. A part of the locking mechanism 100 is connected to the extension 70 of a first side wall 12. Figure 11D shows a detailed perspective view of the locking mechanism 100 similar to the view as shown in figure 11C, however, the locking mechanism 100 being now rotated in its locked state.

[0114] Figures 12A to 12D show a detailed exploded view of the second embodiment of the locking mechanism 100 as shown in figures 11A to 11D. In figure 12A, all elements of the second embodiment of the locking mechanism 100 are shown apart from each other, in figure 12B, the elements positioned on the second side wall 14 are mounted together, in figure 12C, all elements are mounted together showing the locking mechanism 100 in its open, unlocked state, and in figure 12D, all elements are brought together showing the locking mechanism 100 in its closed, locked state.

[0115] The locking mechanism 100 comprises a first element 102 connected to the extension 70 of the first side wall 12, and a second element 103 connected to the second side wall 14. The first element 102 comprising an outer ring element 110 which can be fixedly connected to extension 70 of the first side wall 12 by using connecting means such as bolts or rivets through the holes 111 in the outer ring element 110. In the outer ring element 110, a slot 112 is foreseen (see e.g. figure 12B), the slot 112 being shaped in such a way to allow a protruding locking element 105 of the second element 103 to be placed inside the outer ring element 110 of the first element 102. The slot 112 is preferably shaped as a banana shaped slot, or any other suitable shape such that a complementary shape of a protruding locking element 105 of the second element 103 can be received in the slot 112 and continue to rotate inside the slot 112 away from the inserting position. The outer ring element 110 further comprises a blocking element 114, the blocking element 114 and the slot 112 cooperating together such that, once the protruding locking element 105 is inserted into the slot 112 and the protruding locking element 105 is rotated inside the slot 112, at least a part of the protruding locking element 105 will be positioned behind the blocking element 114, thus preventing the removal of the protruding locking element 105 back out of the slot 112 and outer ring element 110 by pulling on the second element 103.

[0116] The second element 103 comprises an outer shell element 104 having a protruding locking element 105, the protruding locking element 105 being in the form of a half circle and extending or protruding a distance away from the base 106 of the outer shell element 104. The second element 103 further comprising an inner shell element 107 having a hole 108 matching the shape of the protruding locking element 105 and a shoulder 109 which is configured to connect the inner shell element 107 with the outer shell element 104 when installed in the second side wall 14.

[0117] When in use, the outer shell element 104 is positioned on the outer side of the second side wall 14, the protruding locking element 105 being inserted through a hole 61 in the second side wall 14. Further, the inner shell element 107 is positioned on the opposite side of the second side wall 14. The outer shell element 104 and the inner shell element 107 being able to rotate together when the second element 103 is being rotated.

[0118] The protruding locking element 105 of the outer shell element 104 is configured to connect with the blocking element 114, such that, when the protruding locking element 105 is inserted through the slot 112 of the outer ring element 110, the outer shell element 104, the inner shell element 107 and protruding locking element 105 may rotated with respect to the blocking element 114 of the outer ring element 110 such that the protruding locking element 105 may hook at least partially behind the blocking element 114, thus moving from an unlocked position (see figure 11C) to a locked position (see figure 11D). The removal of the protruding locking element 105 and the second element 103 from the slot 112 and the first element 102 will thus be prevented. When the protruding locking element 105 is rotated and secured by the blocking element 114, the two side walls 12, 14 are locked to each other and unable to move away from one another.

[0119] In order to facilitate a user when manipulating the locking mechanism 100, a handle 120 may be provided on the outer shell element 104 of the second element 103.

[0120] Figures 13A to 13D show a detailed view of an embodiment of the securing mechanism 50, 50', 51, 51'. The securing mechanism 50, 50', 51, 51'comprises a first leg 52, a second leg 54, a connecting leg 56 and rotating means 53, 55. The first leg 52 is intended to be positioned on a first side of a side wall 1. The second leg 54 is intended to be positioned on a second side of the side wall. The rotating means comprising a first element 55 connected to a first end of the first leg 52, and a second element 53 connected to a first end of the second leg 54. The second element 53 comprises a shoulder 57, a handle 58, and a first locking part 59. The first element 55 comprises a second locking part 51. The connecting leg 56 comprises a first element 56a connected to a second end of the first leg 52, and a second element 56b connected to a second end of the second leg 54.

[0121] When mounting the locking element 50, 50', 51, 51' to a side wall such as the second 14 or fourth 18 side wall, the first locking part 59 and the second locking part 51 are inserted through an opening 60 in the side wall. As can be seen from figures 13B and 13C, the first element 56a connected to the first leg 52 and the second element 56b connected to the second leg 54 are not yet connected to each other. When rotating the first leg 52 and / or the second leg 54, the first locking part 59 interlocks with the second locking part 51, the rotating means 53, 55 are configured to securely connect the first end of the first leg 52 with the first end of the second leg 54. At the same time, the first element 56a and the second element 56b of the connecting leg 56 will assemble together thus forming one rigid securing mechanism 50, 50', 51, 51'.

[0122] Figure 14A to 14D show the different folding steps of the side walls 12, 14, 16, 17 of the container 1 between the extended configuration and the collapsed configuration.

[0123] In figure 14A, the securing mechanisms 50 and 51 have been brought from a securing position (wherein the securing mechanism 50, 51 is in a generally horizontal position) to a free position (wherein the securing mechanism 50, 51 is again in a generally horizontal position, however rotated about 180° around the rotating means 53, 55). Although a locking mechanism 100 is foreseen in the figures 14A to 14D, the locking mechanism as shown in figures 10A to 10D may be provided in an alternative embodiment, or even no locking mechanism may be present in a further alternative embodiment. In order for the container 1 to move from its extended configuration to its collapsed configuration, the locking mechanism will likewise need to move from its locking position to its open position. Once the securing mechanisms 50, 51, and optionally the locking mechanism 90, 100, are in the free or open position, the first side wall 12 is able to be folded inwardly around its first groove 36. The first side wall 12 is thus brought from a position essentially perpendicular to the base 10, to a position essentially parallel to the base 10 and the second side wall element 34 of the first side wall 12 is thereby folded around the groove 36 in the groove folding area 30 of the first side wall 12. In figure 14B, the locking mechanisms 50' and 5 1' are moved from their securing position to their free position. Subsequently, the third side wall 16 is able to be folded inwardly around its second groove 38. The third side wall 16 is thus brought from a position essentially perpendicular to the base 10, to a position essentially parallel to the base 10 and the second side wall element 34 of the third side wall 16 is thereby folded around the groove 36 in the groove folding area 30 of the third side wall 16. As shown in figure 14C, the second wall 14 is now folded inwardly around its first groove 36, he second side wall 14 is thus brought from a position essentially perpendicular to the base 10, to a position essentially parallel to the base 10 and the second side wall element 34 of the second side wall 14 is thereby folded around the groove 36 in the groove folding area 30 of the second side wall 12. As shown in figure 14D, the fourth wall 18 follows by folding the fourth wall 18 around its second groove 38, the fourth side wall 18 is thus brought from a position essentially perpendicular to the base 10, to a position essentially parallel to the base 10 and the second side wall element 34 of the fourth side wall 18 is thereby folded around the groove 36 in the groove folding area 30 of the fourth side wall 18. In such a way, the container 1 is placed from its extended configuration having a first storage capacity 20 to a collapsed configuration having a second storage capacity 22. The reinforcement corners 160 are positioned above the surface of the fourth side wall 18, such that a top lid 40 can be placed on top of these reinforcement corners 160 to effectively shield the side walls 12, 14, 16, 18.

[0124] As shown in figures 4B, 7C, 8C, 9A, 10B, 11C and 11D, the thickness of the extensions 70 are decreasing towards their edges. Although such decrease of thickness is not necessary, it will allow for the first side wall 12 and third side wall 16 to be a more securely positioned when in their collapsed position. The thinner edge of the extension 70 is more easily pushed between the neighbouring side walls and when movement is continued, the thicker part of the extension 70 will be pinched between the side walls and thus providing a close and secure fit. For example, when the first side wall 12 is brought from its extended position to its collapsed position, the extension 70 on the first edge will be positioned facing the first side wall element 32 of the fourth side wall 18, while the other extension 70 on the second side edge of the first side wall 12 will be positioned facing the first side wall element 32 of the second side wall 14. However there is still a gap foreseen between the extensions 70 and the first side wall elements 32 of the respective walls. Now, when the third side wall 16 is brought from its extended position to its collapsed position, the thinner edge of the extension 70 of the third sied wall 16 will be pushed in the gap between the first side wall element 32 of the fourth side wall 18 and the extension 70 of the first side wall 12. Pushing the third side wall 16 further will allow the thicker part of the extension 70 to be brought further in the gap and thus be pinched in between the first side wall element 32 of the fourth side wall 18 and the extension 70. Likewise, for the other extension 70 of the third side wall 16, the thinner edge of this extension 70 will be pushed in between the first side wall element 32 of the second side wall 14 and the extension of the first side wall. Continued downward movement will also bring the thicker part of the extension in the gap, thus allowing the extensions 70 of the third side wall 16 to be effectively pinched between the first side wall elements of the second 14 and fourth 18 wall and the extensions 70 of the first side wall 12.

[0125] Although not shown in the figures, it is to be understood that it is likewise possible to move the container 1 described herein from a collapsed configuration to an extended configuration by using the following steps: moving the fourth side wall 18 from a position essentially parallel to the base 10 to a position essentially perpendicular to the base 10, moving the second side wall 14 from a position essentially parallel to the base 10 to a position essentially perpendicular to the base 10 , moving the third side wall 16 from a position essentially parallel to the base 10 to a position essentially perpendicular to the base 10, securing the fourth side wall 18 to the third side wall 16 by moving the securing mechanism 51' from its free position to its securing position, and securing the third side wall 16 to the second side wall 14 by moving the securing mechanism 50' from its free position to its securing position, moving the first side wall 12 from a position essentially parallel to the base 10 to a position essentially perpendicular to the base 10, securing the fourth side wall 18 to the first side wall 12 by moving the securing mechanism 51 from its free position to its securing position, and securing the first side wall 12 to the second side wall 14 by moving the securing mechanism 50 from its free position to its securing position.

[0126] Optionally the side walls 12, 14, 16, 18 may be additionally locked into their upright position by moving at least two locking mechanisms 90, 90', 100 from a first unlocked position to a second locked position. It is to be understood that the order of the manipulating steps as shown in relation to figures 14A to 14D or as described in the above steps are not limited to this particular order and can be exchanged freely.

Examples

examples

EXAMPLES

[0086]Figure 1A shows a perspective view of a container 1 foreseen with a top lid 40 placed on a loading pallet 150 according to the present invention. The container 1 being in its extended configuration having a first storage capacity 20. The container 1 comprises a base 10 and four side walls in total, of which two side walls 12, 14 are visible in figure 1. Dotted lines are shown on the side walls 12, 14, which are parallel to the base 10, the dotted lines represent the folding grooves 36, 38. Both folding grooves 36, 38 are located in their respective groove folding area 30 and are positioned substantially parallel to the base 10. Each side wall 12, 14 is foreseen with such a groove folding area 30. The first side wall 12 has a groove folding area 30 in which the first groove 36 and the second groove 38 are spaced apart a first certain distance from each other. The second side wall 14 has a groove folding area 30 in which the first groove 36 and second groove 38 are space...

Claims

1. A container (1) comprising a base (10) and four side walls (12, 14, 16, 18), the container (1) being configured to be placed into an extended and a collapsed configuration, - in the extended configuration the container (1) comprises a first storage capacity (20) able to receive goods of a first dimension, - in the collapsed configuration, the container (1) comprises a second storage capacity (22) to receive goods of a second dimension, wherein the first storage capacity (20) is greater than the second storage capacity (22), wherein each one of the four side walls (12, 14, 16, 18) comprises a groove folding area (30), the groove folding area (30) being configured to divide each side wall (12, 14, 16, 18) into a first side wall element (32) below the groove folding area and a second side wall element (34) above the groove folding area (30), and wherein at least two of the four side walls (12, 14, 16, 18) comprise at least two folding grooves (36, 38) in the groove folding area (30), the at least two folding grooves (36, 38) being substantially parallel to the base (10).

2. The container (1) according to claim 1, wherein each of the four side walls (12, 14, 16, 18) comprise at least two folding grooves (36, 38) in their respective groove folding area (30).

3. The container (1) according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the container (1) further comprises reinforcing elements (160, 180), and wherein the container (1) is configured to receive a top lid (40) in the extended and / or collapsed configuration.

4. The container (1) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the combination of the folding grooves (36, 38) are configured to: - position the first (32) and the second (34) side wall element relative to each other such that the side wall elements (32, 34) form an angle α in the extended configuration of about 180°; and / or - position the first (32) and the second (34) side wall element relative to each other such that the side wall elements (32, 34) forms an angle α in the collapsed configuration of about 90°.

5. The container (1) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the folding grooves (36, 38) in opposing side walls (12, 16; 14, 18) are located on the same height and / or wherein the folding grooves (36, 38) in adjacent side walls (12, 14; 46, 18; 18, 12) are located on a different height above the base (10).

6. The container (1) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the folding grooves (36, 38) are indented grooves in the side walls (12, 14, 16, 18).

7. The container (1) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the folding groove area (30) is located in the side wall (12, 14, 16, 18) such that the collapsed configuration comprises a storage capacity (22) that is 1 / 2 or less, preferably 1 / 3 or less, preferably 1 / 4 or less, preferably 1 / 6 or less, preferably 1 / 8 or less, preferably 1 / 10 or less, preferably 1 / 12 or less, preferably 1 / 15 or less, of the storage capacity (20) in the extended configuration.

8. The container (1) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the container (1) further comprises at least two securing mechanisms (50, 50', 51, 51') configured to fixate the side walls (12, 14, 16, 18) of the container (1) when the side walls (12, 14, 16, 18) are in the extended configuration.

9. The container (1) according to claim 8, wherein each securing mechanism (50, 50', 51, 51') comprises a first leg (52) positioned on a first side of a side wall (14, 18), a second leg (54) positioned on a second side of the side wall (14, 18), and a rotating means (53, 55) positioned through an opening (60) in the side wall (14, 18), the rotating means (53, 55) connecting a first end of the first leg (52) with a first end of the second leg (54), preferably wherein the securing mechanism (50, 50', 51, 51') further comprises a connecting leg (56) connecting a second end of the first leg (52) with a second end of the second leg (54).

10. The container (1) according to claim 8 or 9, wherein an extension (70, 72) is connected to a first side wall (12), a first securing mechanism (50) is connected to a second side wall (14), the second side wall (14) being adjacent to the first side wall (12) and wherein the extension (70, 72) being configured such that it can be positioned between the first securing mechanism (50) and the second side wall (14).

11. The container (1) according to claims 9 or 10 when depending on claim 9, wherein a recess (75) is provided in the top of a first side wall (12) and a first securing mechanism (50) is connected to a second side wall (14), the second side wall (14) being adjacent to the first side wall (12), and wherein the recess (75) is positioned such that the first (52) or second (54) leg of the first securing mechanism (50) is able to pivot in the recess (75) of the first side wall (12).

12. The container (1) according to any one of the claims 8 to 11, wherein the container (1) comprises: - a first securing mechanism (50) connected to a first side of a second side wall (14), - a second securing mechanism (50') connected to second side of a second side wall (14), - a third securing mechanism (51) connected to a first side of a fourth side wall (18), the first second wall (14) being positioned opposite from the fourth side wall (18), - a fourth securing mechanism (51') connected to a second side of the fourth side wall (18), - a first side wall (12), positioned between the second (14) and the fourth side wall (18) such that the first securing mechanism (50) of the second side wall (14) and the third securing mechanism (51) of the fourth side wall (18) are configured to cooperate with the first side wall (12), and - a third side wall (16), positioned between the second (14) and the fourth (18) side wall such that the second securing mechanism (50') of the second side wall (14) and the fourth securing mechanism (51') of the fourth side wall (18) are configured to cooperate with the third side wall (16).

13. The container (1) according to any one of the previous claims, wherein the container (1) further comprises at least one locking mechanism (90, 91, 100), the locking mechanism (90, 91, 100) having a first element (92, 102) connected directly or indirectly to a first side wall (12) and a second element (93, 103) connected to a second side wall (14), wherein the first (12) and second (14) side wall are adjacent each other, wherein the first (92, 102) and second (93, 103) element of the at least one securing mechanism (90, 91, 100) are positioned near the adjacent side edge (64, 68) of each respective side wall (12, 14), and wherein the second element (93, 103) is configured to be positioned in the first element (92, 102) and is configured to be rotated inside the first element (92, 102) to securely lock the first side wall (12) to the second side wall (14).

14. The container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein said container (1) is mounted on a means for facilitating transport (150) of the container, preferably wherein said container is mounted on a loading pallet (150), optionally wherein the loading pallet is a dismountable loading pallet (150), more preferably wherein the container (1) is attached to the loading pallet (150) by one or more reinforcing elements (160, 180).

15. The container (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein in the extended configuration the side walls (12, 14, 16, 18) of the container (1) are positioned perpendicular to the base (10) and wherein in the collapsed configuration at least the second side wall elements (34) of the side walls (12, 14, 16, 18) of the container (1) are positioned parallel to the base (10).

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