Packaging device and method for a compact batch of grouped containers

Abstract

The present invention relates to a packaging device (1) for a compact batch (100) of at least two grouped containers (2), said device (1) comprising a strip (3), said strip (3) having an inner face (300), an outer face (301) and two longitudinal edges (302), said packaging device (1) being for example in the form of a belt (10) surrounding the containers (2) or a handle (11) for handling said batch (100). The packaging device (1) is characterized in that at least one of said longitudinal edges (302) is folded against one of the faces (300), (301) of said strip (3) so as to form at least one fold (4). The invention also relates to a method for packaging a batch (100) of containers (2) using such a packaging device (1). Figure for abstract: Fig. 8

Description

Title of the invention: Device and method for packaging a compact batch of grouped containers

[0001] Technical field: The present invention relates to the field of packaging containers in batches. Its subject is a device for packaging a compact batch of grouped containers together, said packaging device being in the form, for example, of a belt for holding the grouped containers together or a handle for lifting and moving the batch, and a method using this packaging device for producing such a batch.

[0002] It also relates to a batch of at least two containers grouped together, said batch comprising at least one packaging device according to the invention.

[0003] Finally, it relates to a packaging installation for producing batches of at least two containers grouped together, said installation implementing the packaging method for manufacturing the packaging device as described below.

[0004] In the context of the present invention, the container is of the bottle or flask type. Such a container is intended to contain, in a non-exhaustive manner, a fluid, a liquid, powders or granules, in particular of the agri-food or cosmetic type.

[0005] In a known manner, within an industrial line, the containers can receive several different successive treatments, such as the manufacture of the container, for example during a plastic injection operation or stretch-blow molding in the case of a plastic bottle, followed by filling and then closing with a cap and labeling. At the end of these treatments, the containers are said to be "finished".

[0006] For handling purposes, such finished containers are packaged in batches. Thus, each batch comprises several containers, grouped together, for example, in a matrix arrangement, generally of a generally parallelepiped shape, often square or rectangular, in columns and rows. By way of illustration, a typical batch groups together six containers in two rows and three columns.

[0007] Once the groups of containers have been produced, each group is coated, in particular covered with a film, in order to hold the containers together and to facilitate the handling of such a batch thus obtained. Such coating can be carried out through a bundling step. In particular, the bundling of a group of containers consists of coating it using a sheet of a plastic film made of heat-shrinkable material. A coated group then undergoes a heating step so that the sheet conforms to the overall external shape of the containers. In short, the sheet of film shrinks under the effect of heat to form a constriction ensuring the grouped containers are held together.

[0008] The grouping of the containers, the coating and the heating are carried out by means of a dedicated installation of the shrink-wrapper type, through several successive stations. Such a heating operation represents a significant energy expenditure. Such a packaging solution not only involves significant energy consumption from a financial point of view, but is also harmful to the environment. Indeed, the coating is carried out from a film of plastic material, essentially obtained from the petrochemical industry. However, it is becoming absolutely necessary to limit single-use plastic objects, which represent a large source of waste, particularly in the seas and oceans.

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

[0010] Thus, there is a growing need to find an alternative to the use of this material which generates a lot of waste and is energy-intensive, both by simplifying packaging and by reducing the total quantity of material used.

[0011] Technical background: In this field, a known alternative to using shrink-wrapped plastic film for batch formation is to hold the products together using a strap or band, which will surround the containers.

[0012] For example, we know the patent DE102011107265 which proposes to connect the containers together by means of glue dots and to finalize the maintenance using an adhesive or self-adhesive strip which encircles the batch. The self-adhesive strip is preferably transparent, placed at the level of the product label, to allow the consumer to see the information present on the label. This strap can be made of composite material, that is to say composed of several different materials. It therefore has the disadvantage of being little, if not not recyclable, given the difficulty of separating so-called recyclable materials from other materials. Furthermore, it has another disadvantage, because when it is removed it risks damaging the label present on the container, insofar as it is self-adhesive.

[0013] The use of a strapping tape for a batch is also described in US20110089055. Additional means are provided to hold the grouped containers together and a specific method is described to prevent the containers do not rotate on themselves, which would lead to deformation of the batch and instability of the containers. The strapping tape is attached to the batch at two opposite points on the surface of a container to ensure its position. This solution has the same disadvantages of using composite materials. In addition, the packaging process is complex and requires many steps to ensure that the containers are kept in the batch.

[0014] In the field of the invention, it is therefore necessary to develop a device for packaging products in batches, which is environmentally friendly and which guarantees optimal maintenance of the batch, whether during transport or during storage.

[0015] Summary of the invention: The invention thus aims to provide a packaging device which has high tear resistance, in order to guarantee the integrity of the batch formed by the group of containers. The desired packaging device must not only be reliable and solid but also ecological, both in its composition, which must guarantee high recyclability, and in the quantity of waste generated.

[0016] To this end, the invention firstly relates to a packaging device for a compact batch of at least two grouped containers, said device comprising a strip, said strip having an inner face, an outer face and two longitudinal edges. The packaging device is for example in the form of a belt surrounding the containers or a handle for handling said batch.

[0017] According to the invention, the packaging device is characterized in that at least one of the longitudinal edges of the strip is folded against one of the faces of said strip so as to form at least one fold.

[0018] According to a possible additional characteristic, at least one longitudinal edge of the strip is folded against the inner face of said strip, and the at least one fold only partially covers the inner face of said strip.

[0019] In embodiments, each of the longitudinal edges is folded against the inner face and the at least two folds together only partially cover the inner face of the strip.

[0020] According to a variant, the folds formed by the two longitudinal edges are symmetrical.

[0021] In embodiments, the strip has a coating on at least one of its faces, preferably at least on its outer face, of the paint, glue, lacquer or treatment type.

[0022] The invention also relates to a batch of at least two containers grouped together. The batch is characterized in that it comprises at least one packaging device as described above, said at least one device having an inner side and an outer side.

[0023] In embodiments, the batch comprises at least one packaging device which is a belt surrounding the at least two containers of said batch so as to keep them grouped together, the inner side of said device being affixed against the peripheral wall of the containers.

[0024] According to a possible additional characteristic, the batch comprises a packaging device which is a belt and said belt is closed by overlapping its opposite ends, the adhesion between said ends being for example achieved by means of ultrasonic welding.

[0025] In embodiments, the at least one packaging device is a handle for gripping and lifting said batch and one of the faces of the strip of the device comprises an adhesive coating, the inner side of said device being affixed against the peripheral wall of at least two containers.

[0026] According to a variant, the batch comprises at least two packaging devices, the first device being a belt which holds the grouped containers together and the second device being a handle, the inner side of said handle coming into contact with said belt by partial or total transverse overlap.

[0027] The invention also relates to an installation for packaging at least two containers in batches as described above, said installation comprising at least one module for grouping at least two containers. The installation is characterized in that it comprises at least one module for affixing at least one packaging device as described above, and at least one module for folding a strip of a packaging device to fold at least one longitudinal edge of the strip of said device against one of its faces.

[0028] According to a possible additional characteristic, the packaging device is a belt and the at least one module for affixing at least one packaging device is a strapping module.

[0029] In embodiments, the packaging device is a handle and the installation comprises a second affixing module, the second affixing module being a module for depositing a packaging device in the form of a handle.

[0030] The invention also relates to a method of at least two containers in a batch as described above, in which at least two containers are grouped together. The method is characterized in that at least one packaging device as described above is affixed to the group of at least two containers and in that, before the step of affixing said at least one packaging device, at least one folding of at least one longitudinal edge of the strip of said device is carried out against one of the faces of said strip to form at least one fold.

[0031] According to a possible additional characteristic, at least one packaging device is a belt and a wrapping is carried out by strapping the batch by affixing at least one packaging device in the form of a belt with sufficient tension to hold said at least two containers in a batch.

[0032] In embodiments, the method comprises a step of depositing on the batch at least one packaging device in the form of a handle, said handle at least partially covering a packaging device in the form of a belt.

[0033] Thus, the environmental impact of the invention is significantly reduced compared to packaging using plastic material, while the strength of the batch is not degraded.

[0034] Brief description of the figures: The invention will be better understood thanks to the description below, which is based on possible embodiments, explained in an illustrative and in no way limiting manner, with reference to the appended figures, in which: - [Fig.l] schematically represents a perspective view of a packaging device comprising a strip partially unwound from a roll, said strip having a single folded longitudinal edge; - [Fig.2] schematically represents a view similar to [Fig.l], showing a detail of a single folded longitudinal edge; - [Fig.3] schematically represents a view similar to [Fig.2], showing a strip with its two longitudinal edges folded back; - [Fig.4] schematically represents a view similar to [Fig.3], showing another embodiment; - [Fig.5] schematically represents a perspective view of a batch of two bottle-type containers, showing in particular a coating by strapping of a single packaging device forming a single belt; - [Fig.6] schematically represents a perspective view of a batch of two containers, showing in particular a coating by strapping of two upper and lower belts, - [Fig.7] schematically represents a view similar to [Fig.l], said lot being provided with a handle; - [Fig.8] schematically represents a view similar to [Fig.7], said lot being provided with a handle formed by a strap with a single folded longitudinal edge; - [Fig.9] schematically represents a perspective view of a batch of six containers, of the bottle type, showing in particular two belts, only one of which is formed from a band with a single folded longitudinal edge; - [Fig. 10] schematically represents a view similar to [Fig.9], showing in particular a handle formed from a strip with its two longitudinal edges folded back; - [Fig.l 1] schematically represents a perspective view of a batch of four containers, of the bottle type, during the affixing by strapping of a single belt in the form of a band with a single folded upper longitudinal edge; - [Fig. 12] schematically represents a simplified view of an embodiment of an installation for packaging containers into a batch of two containers.

[0035] Detailed description of the invention: In the remainder of the description, elements having an identical structure or similar functions will be designated by the same reference.

[0036] The invention thus firstly relates to a packaging device 1 for a compact batch 100 of at least two grouped containers 2.

[0037] In the context of the invention, the container 2 is a bottle, a flask or even a brick. It can be made of any material, in particular plastic, cardboard or even glass. Preferably, the container is made of polyethylene terephthalate, hereinafter PET. The container 2 can therefore be rigid or semi-rigid. It is intended to contain a fluid, a liquid, powders or granules, in particular of the food or cosmetic type. The container 2 can have any type of shape, symmetrical or not. It can have a rounded section, generally circular or ovoidal in shape, or else a polygonal section, in particular rectangular or square. Preferably, said containers have a rounded section, in particular generally circular.

[0038] The containers 2 have a body and a bottom. The body of a container 2 comprises a peripheral wall. In a normal orientation, the container 2 rests on its bottom and the main direction X is vertical. The bottom may be generally flat, petaloid or other in shape.

[0039] The container 2 may optionally have a label. Said label may be affixed to the body of the container 2, or be attached to the neck of said container 2, in the form of a ticket. The label may also be in the form of a shrink sleeve, which will fit the shape of said container 2. The label, when present, has the function of delivering information on the contents of the container 2, or even an advertising message, a logo, a bar code.

[0040] For handling purposes, such finished containers undergo batch packaging. Each batch 100 therefore comprises several containers 2, assembled for example in a matrix arrangement, generally of a generally parallelepiped shape, often square or rectangular, according to columns and rows.

[0041] When being packaged, the containers 2 may also be arranged in a staggered pattern. The staggered batch may have various advantages. The staggered arrangement provides, in particular, more points of contact between the grouped containers. Furthermore, the additional friction exerted between the containers will increase the strength of the batch 100. The staggered arrangement also makes it possible to optimize the space between the containers, and therefore represents a gain in storage capacity. It is then possible to stack more batches 100 on a pallet.

[0042] Furthermore, the term “compact” corresponds to a batch 100 in which containers 2 are brought together and positioned side by side, placed next to each other when they are grouped according to one of the configurations described. Once the containers 2 are grouped and packaged, that is to say wrapped, they are then secured to each other, forming a batch 100. The containers 2 of such a batch 100 are then inseparable, except when said batch 100 is deliberately dismantled to extract one or more containers 2.

[0043] In the context of the invention, a batch 100 comprises at least one packaging device 1 as described below.

[0044] According to the invention, the packaging device 1 comprises a strip 3. The strip 3 is preferably a strip 3 of paper, that is to say that it is composed mainly or predominantly of cellulose fibers. As such, the paper used belongs to the specific field of packaging containers 2 and is limited to packaging papers. The term “paper” excludes cardboard, corrugated cardboard, and flat cardboard.

[0045] Furthermore, such paper is based on cellulose fibers. For example, the paper used in the invention may be kraft paper or a kraft paper derivative. According to a possible additional characteristic, the strip 3 of the packaging device 1 is made from a paper having increased strength compared to a conventional paper, a breaking limit appropriate for its use, due to its manufacturing process. The strength or extensibility of the paper are characteristics that can be improved during the manufacturing process, for example by adding a weft, or specific fibers. The fibers can also be oriented in the longitudinal or transverse direction relative to the machine direction, in the direction of the greatest length of the paper strip thus obtained, to improve the resistance to elongation before breaking depending on the direction of orientation.

[0046] Preferably, the strip 3 of the packaging device 1 is made up mainly of biodegradable and / or recyclable components, in order to improve the environmental impact of said packaging device 1.

[0047] As visible in [Fig.l], the strip 3 of the packaging device 1 has an inner face 300, an outer face 301 and two longitudinal edges 302. According to the invention, and as visible in [Fig.l], at least one longitudinal edge 302 of the strip 3 is folded against the inner face 300 or against the outer face 301, so as to form at least one fold 4. The inner face 300 of the strip 3 is the face which is on the side of the peripheral wall of the containers 2 when the packaging device 1 is placed against the peripheral wall of the grouped containers 2. The inner face 300 can be either in direct contact with said peripheral wall, or in indirect contact, depending on the width of the folds formed by the folding of the longitudinal edges 302.In other words, in embodiments where at least one fold 4 does not completely cover the inner face 300, a portion of the inner face 300 remains visible and is placed directly against the peripheral wall of a container 2.

[0048] Similarly, in embodiments where the at least one fold 4 is formed on the outer face 301, a portion of the inner face 300 is in direct contact with the peripheral wall of the containers 2.

[0049] In embodiments where a part, or even the whole of the inner face 300 is covered by at least one fold 4, said part is then in indirect contact with the peripheral wall of the containers 2, said at least one fold 4 then being located between the non-visible part of the inner face 300 and the peripheral wall.

[0050] The outer face 301 is the face opposite the inner face 300.

[0051] The packaging device 1 comprises an inner side and an outer side.

[0052] In an embodiment where at least one longitudinal edge 302 is folded against the inner face 300, the uncovered part of said inner face 300 and the at least one fold 4 together form the inner side of the packaging device 1, said inner side being placed against the peripheral wall of the containers 2 when said device 1 comes against said containers 2.

[0053] The inner side of the packaging device 1 is therefore the side which is placed against the peripheral wall of the containers 2. The inner side of the device 1 is formed by the uncovered, i.e. visible, part of the inner face 300 of the strip 3 and, depending on the embodiments, by at least one fold 4.

[0054] The outer side of the packaging device 1 is the visible side of said device 1 when it is placed against the peripheral wall of the containers 2.

[0055] The outer side of the packaging device 1 is therefore formed by the uncovered, visible part of the outer face 301 of the strip 3 and, depending on the embodiments, by at least one fold 4. In an embodiment where at least one longitudinal edge 302 is folded against the outer face 301, the uncovered part of said outer face 301 and the at least one fold 4 together form the outer side of the packaging device 1, said outer side being the visible side of said device 1 when it comes against the containers 2.

[0056] A longitudinal edge 302 corresponds to the edge of the strip 3.

[0057] The fold 4 makes it possible to reinforce the strength of the strip 3, and therefore of the packaging device 1. Indeed, it is essential to guarantee the tear resistance of a packaging device 1, in particular for the handling phases of a batch 100. It may also be necessary to ensure that the packaging device 1 remains reliable over time, in particular after long storage phases.

[0058] It has been found that problems of resistance of a packaging device 1 can arise, in particular when it is made of paper. In order to remedy this problem of tear resistance, at least one longitudinal edge 302 of the strip 3 is folded against the inner face 300 or against the outer face 301 of said strip 3.

[0059] Preferably, at least one longitudinal edge 302 of the strip 3 is folded against the inner face 300 of the strip 3.

[0060] The fold 4 formed by the longitudinal edge 302 may partially or completely cover the inner face 300 of the strip 3. Preferably, the fold 4 formed by the longitudinal edge 302 only partially covers the inner face 300 of the strip 3.

[0061] As visible in [Fig.l] or in [Fig.2], the longitudinal edge 302 can be folded to form a fold 4 which has an adjustable width. The width 40 of a fold 4 can be more or less important. In particular, the width 40 of a fold 4 can be less than the width of the packaging device 1, that is to say that said width 40 is such that a part of the inner face 300 or of the outer face 301 remains visible, that is to say is not masked by at least one fold 4. The width 40 of a fold 4 can also be equal to the width of a packaging device 1, that is to say that said width 40 of a fold 4 is such that the inner face 300 or the outer face 301 is then entirely masked by said fold 4. Folding at least one longitudinal edge 302 of the strip 3 makes it possible to considerably improve the strength of the packaging device 1.

[0062] In certain embodiments, and as visible in figures 3 or 4, each of the two longitudinal edges 302 of the strip 3 is folded against the inner face 300. In this case, the tear resistance of the packaging device 1 being greatly increased, it is also possible to reduce the thickness of the strip 3. Indeed, it is not necessary to increase the quantity of raw material to obtain sufficient mechanical resistance. It is also possible to produce batches 100 with large capacity containers 2, or even with a number of containers 2 in a batch 100 greater than four, or even greater than six. In addition, the formation of the folds 4 makes it possible to limit the risk of cuts for a user, in particular when the packaging device 1 takes the form of a handle 11.

[0063] In embodiments where each of the longitudinal edges 302 of the strip 3 of a packaging device 1 is folded against one of the faces 300, 301, said longitudinal edges 302 may be partially folded. In other words, the folds 4 formed by the folding of the two longitudinal edges 302 then together only partially cover the width of one of the faces 300, 301 of the strip 3.

[0064] [Fig. 3] shows an embodiment where the two longitudinal edges 302 are folded against the inner face 300 of the strip 3. A part of said inner face 300 is then not masked by said folds 4 thus formed. In this embodiment, the sum of the widths 40 of the two folds 4 is less than the width of the packaging device 1.

[0065] Thus, the width 40 of the folds 4 formed by the folding of the longitudinal edges 302 is adaptable according to requirements.

[0066] According to another variant, the at least one fold 4 formed by the folding of at least one longitudinal edge 302 completely masks the inner face 300 of the strip 3. In this case, the inner side of the packaging device 1 is formed by the folding of the at least one longitudinal edge 302 on the inner face 300 of the strip 3.

[0067] In a variant, not shown, the at least one fold 4 formed by the folding of at least one longitudinal edge 302 completely masks the outer face 301 of the strip 3. In this case, the outer side of the packaging device 1 is formed by the folding of the at least one longitudinal edge 302 on the outer face 301 of the strip 3.

[0068] According to a possible additional characteristic, illustrated in [Fig.4], the folds 4 of the strip 3 of the packaging device 1 formed by the two longitudinal edges 302 of said strip 3 are symmetrical. In other words, each of the folds 4 has the same width 40.

[0069] In embodiments, the strip 3 has a coating 9, of the paint, glue, lacquer or treatment type, on all or part of its inner face 300 and / or its outer face 301. In other words, the coating 9 can therefore cover both faces 300, 301 of the strip 3, or only one of its faces.

[0070] This coating 9 may be a coating for purely aesthetic purposes, such as varnish or lacquer, for example, to improve the visual appearance of the product, or for technical purposes, for example to facilitate the printing of information, messages, drawings, signs, etc.

[0071] In particular, according to one embodiment, the coating 9 is a coating for technical purposes, in particular an adhesive coating or a heat-sealing coating. in order to promote the adhesion of the two opposite ends of the strip 3 of a packaging device 1 to each other. Such a coating 9 is for example activated by ultrasound or thermally. This embodiment advantageously makes it possible to activate the sealing properties in a localized manner. In other words, before activation, the coating 9 is inactive, that is to say unable to play an adhesive role, and after activation, it takes on adhesive properties.

[0072] According to another variant, the coating 9 covers the entire inner face 300 or the outer face 301 of the strip 3 of a packaging device 1, and is activated locally, for example by ultrasound, to form one or more adhesive zones. In this embodiment, the activation of said coating 9 can be carried out in a targeted manner at the contact zone between the strip 3 and the peripheral wall of one or more containers 2.

[0073] According to other additional characteristics, the coating 9 may be intended to improve the coefficient of friction, or even to improve the resistance to humidity of the strip 3 of a packaging device 1, in particular when said strip 3 is made of paper.

[0074] In certain embodiments, the coating 9 is an adhesive coating 9 on one of the faces 300, 301 of the strip 3 of a packaging device 1 in order to facilitate the maintenance of the fold 4 formed by a longitudinal edge 302. Indeed, in such a case, the flap of the longitudinal edge 302 will stick to one of the faces 300, 301 of the strip 3. The fold 4 thus formed will therefore remain in position and will not lift. Furthermore, in embodiments according to which the at least one fold 4 only partially covers the inner face 300 or the outer face 301, the strip 3 has an adhesive portion, not covered by said at least one fold 4, at said face 300, 301. The affixing of the packaging device 1 against the containers 2 is then simplified. The coating 9 may cover the entirety of one of the two faces 300, 301, or be produced discontinuously, or even partially cover the width or length of one face of the two faces 300, 301 of the strip 3 of a packaging device 1, for example only at one of the ends of said strip 3.

[0075] In embodiments, the packaging device 1 further comprises an insert 8. Said insert 8 may have any shape, preferably a rectangular shape with its length extending along the length of the strip 3. The insert 8 is attached to one of the faces 300, 301 of the strip 3, preferably to the face 300, 301 which has at least one fold 4. In this case, the insert 8 may be at least partly covered by at least one longitudinal edge 302, preferably by the two longitudinal edges 302 of the strip 3. This further increases the strength of the packaging device 1. Preferably, the insert 8 is made of paper or cardboard material. According to a variant, the insert 8 is attached by gluing to one of the faces 300, 301 which has the folds 4. Preferably, the insert 8 is glued to the inner face 300 of the strip 3.

[0076] [Fig.4] shows an exemplary embodiment, in which an insert 8 is glued to the inner face 300 of a strip 3, each of the two longitudinal edges 302 partially covering said insert 8.

[0077] According to another variant, which can be combined with any other embodiment, the insert 8 is not covered by a longitudinal edge 302 of the strip 3. In other words, the at least one fold 4 formed by the folding of a longitudinal edge 302 does not cover the insert 8. Said at least one fold 4 may or may not be flush with said insert 8.

[0078] In embodiments, the packaging device 1 is a belt 10, surrounding at least two containers 2 of a batch 100, so as to keep them grouped together. The belt 10 is placed against the peripheral wall of the containers 2 and envelops the group of said containers 2 to form a compact batch 100. Thus, the containers 2 are held together by a packaging device 1, which is a belt 10. In these embodiments, the strip 3 of the device 1 comprises at least one fold 4 formed by a longitudinal edge 302 and takes the form of a belt 10. The batch 100 obtained is solid and reliable, that is to say that it will not disintegrate, due to the presence of the at least one fold 4 formed by the longitudinal edge 302, said longitudinal edge 302 being folded against one of the faces 300, 301 of the strip 3 of the packaging device 1.

[0079] In embodiments, as seen in [Fig.8], the packaging device 1 is a handle 11, that is to say that the strip 3 forms a gripping means. The handle 11 is intended to lift, to move a batch 100.

[0080] It is particularly advantageous for a batch 100 to comprise a packaging device 1 in the form of a handle 11, which is a strip 3 comprising at least one fold 4. Indeed, it is not uncommon for the gripping means of a batch 100 to tear when said batch 100 is moved, a fortiori when said gripping means is made of paper. The fact that the handle 11 is reinforced by at least one fold 4 of the strip 3 of the packaging device 1 forming said handle 11 makes it possible to improve the strength of a batch 100.

[0081] According to a preferred embodiment, the handle 11 is formed by a packaging device 1 comprising a strip 3 and an insert 8, said strip 3 comprising two folds 4.

[0082] The invention also relates to a batch 100, comprising at least two containers 2 grouped together, and at least one packaging device 1 according to the invention.

[0083] In embodiments, the batch 100 comprises a packaging device 1 in the form of a belt 10. Of course, the batch 100 may comprise other packaging means. However, in preferred embodiments, the batch 100 does not comprise additional packaging means, other than one or more packaging devices 1 according to the invention.

[0084] [Fig. 5] shows an embodiment according to which a batch 100 comprises two containers 2 of a height H, held together by a packaging device 1 in the form of a belt 10. In this embodiment, the strip 3 forming the belt 10 comprises two folds 4, each of the longitudinal edges 302 being folded against the inner face 300 of said strip 3, and said folds 4 partially covering said inner face 300. The inner side of the packaging device 1, formed by the two folds 4 and by the part of the inner face 300 not covered by the strip 3, is placed against the peripheral wall of the containers 2 so as to form a batch 100.

[0085] [Fig. 11] shows an embodiment similar to the embodiment visible in [Fig. 5]. In this embodiment, a batch 100 of four containers 2 is formed by a packaging device 1 in the form of a belt 10. The strip 3 of the packaging device 1 comprises a single fold 4, formed by the folding of the upper longitudinal edge 302 of said strip 3.

[0086] According to a possible additional characteristic, in the case where the batch 100 comprises a single belt 3, said belt 10 formed by the strip 3 has a minimum height of one eighth of the height H of each of the containers 2 along the main direction X. Preferably, said paper belt 10 has a minimum height of one quarter of the height H of each of the containers 2 along the main direction X.

[0087] In certain embodiments, and as illustrated in [Fig. 6], the batch 100 comprises two packaging devices 1 in the form of two belts 10. As visible in [Fig. 6], the batch 100 is produced by means of a wrapping by strapping of two packaging devices 1 forming two belts 10 respectively upper and lower, the strips 3 of said devices 1 having a single folded longitudinal edge 302. In particular, the upper belt 10 is formed of a first strip 3 with its upper longitudinal edge 302 folded and the lower belt 10 is formed of a second strip 3 with its lower longitudinal edge 302 folded.

[0088] In embodiments where the batch 100 comprises more than one belt 10, the total cumulative height of the belts 10 represents at least a quarter of the height H of the containers 2. Preferably, the cumulative height of said belts 10 represents at most two thirds of the height of each of the containers 2 along the main direction X. The height considered of a container 2 is its height H measured between the top of the cap and the contact surface of the bottom of said container 2. The height H of a container 2 and the height of a belt 10 are measured along the main direction X.

[0089] The advantage resulting from such a minimum height is that the tension exerted on the containers 2 is distributed homogeneously over the peripheral wall of the containers 2. This will avoid deforming the body of the containers 2 too significantly.

[0090] It is understood that, depending on the type of containers 2, their height or even depending on the total weight of the batch 100, it may be necessary, to guarantee the optimal maintenance of the containers 2 grouped together, to use one or more packaging devices 1 in the form of a belt 10, in particular when said belt 10 is made of a strip 3 of paper. Indeed, for containers 2 of great height, and / or for batches 100 of at least six containers, the tension exerted on the batch 100 during lifting causes a separation of the containers at the level of the base of said batch 100. The use of at least one second belt 10 then makes it possible to guarantee the compactness and solidity of said batch 100.

[0091] According to a possible additional characteristic, the belt 10 is closed by overlapping its opposite ends 101 and 102, the adhesion between said ends being for example achieved by means of ultrasonic welding.

[0092] Also, depending on the type of coating 9 deposited on one of the faces 300, 301 of a strip 3 of a packaging device 1, an appropriate seal will be made between the ends 101 and 102 of said strip 3. For example, the adhesion can also be made by gluing, by thermal activation (heat sealing), staples, or by any other means. Of course, the invention is not limited to a particular embodiment for the adhesion between two ends 101 and 102 of a strip 3.

[0093] In the embodiment illustrated in [Fig.7], the batch 100 comprises a packaging device 1 in the form of a belt 10 and a packaging means of the gripping means type. The belt 10 comprises two folds 4 which partially cover the strip 3 of the packaging device 1.

[0094] In certain embodiments, and as visible in [Fig.8], the batch 100 comprises at least two packaging devices 1, at least a first packaging device 1 being a belt 10 which keeps the containers 2 grouped together and a second packaging device 1 being a handle 11. Preferably, in these embodiments, the inner side of said handle 11 comes into contact with said belt 10 transversely, by partial or total overlap. In other words, the handle 11 can come to cover the belt 10 over part of its height, its entire height, or even come to extend beyond the height of said belt 10. The handle 11 allows the batch 100 to be grasped and lifted from above said batch, in a normal orientation.

[0095] In embodiments where the batch 100 comprises a packaging device 1 in the form of a handle 11, said handle 11 can therefore be fixed to said batch 100 by partial or total transverse covering, either with a second packaging device 1 in the form of a belt 10, or with a strap-type packaging means. According to another variant, the handle 11, and in particular each of its ends, can be sandwiched between a belt 10 and the peripheral wall of a container 2.

[0096] According to another possible characteristic, the handle 11 is fixed both by partial covering of at least one belt 10 and on a portion of the peripheral wall of two containers 2. In such a configuration, visible in [Fig.8], the handle 11 extends beyond the at least one belt 10 and is fixed on the portion of the peripheral wall of the container 2 located below said belt 10, along the main direction X. Optionally, the handle 11 can also be fixed to the portion of the peripheral wall located above said strip 2, in the direction of the main direction X.

[0097] This embodiment is particularly advantageous because it allows collaboration between the handle 11 and the belt 10, thus ensuring the integrity of the batch 100. When lifting said batch 100, the handle 11 will contribute to maintaining the belt 10 in position. In this embodiment, the handle 11 is fixed, for example by means of double-sided adhesive tape or by glue dots, on a part of the peripheral wall of at least two containers 2, in addition to its fixing on the at least one belt 10.

[0098] Furthermore, the handle 11 can be produced by means of a strip 3 of a packaging device 1, said strip 3 being provided with an adhesive-type coating 9 on its inner face 300 and / or on its outer face 301. Advantageously, the adhesive coating 9 can both allow optimal maintenance of the at least one fold 4 formed by a longitudinal edge 302 of the strip 3 and allow fixed placement of the handle 11 against the containers 2. Indeed, in embodiments where at least one longitudinal edge 302 is folded against the inner face 300 and where the at least one fold 4 has a width 40 less than the width of the packaging device 1, said face 300 retains an unmasked portion, adhesive due to the coating 9, and will therefore be stuck against the containers 2 forming the batch 100.

[0099] According to a possible variant, the strip 3 comprises a coating 9 on its outer face 301. In this case, in embodiments where the at least one fold 4 is formed on the inner face 300, said at least one fold 4 then has an adhesive coating 9 which allows fixed placement of the packaging device 1.

[0100] It is understood that a batch 100 may comprise a packaging device 1 in the form of a handle 11 as well as another packaging means. For example, a batch 100 of four containers 2 may comprise a packaging means of the plastic strap or paper strap type, covering the group of containers 2, and a packaging device 1 in the form of a handle 11, said handle 11 at least partially covering said strap. In this case, the handle 11 will be reinforced by the presence of at least one fold 4, while the strap will not comprise any fold 4.

[0101] Another possible embodiment is illustrated in [Fig.9], where a batch 100 comprises a packaging device 1 in the form of a belt 10 and an additional packaging means in the form of a strap.

[0102] Another possible embodiment is illustrated in [Fig. 10], where a batch 100 comprises a first packaging device 1 in the form of a belt 10, a second packaging device 1 in the form of a handle 11, and an additional packaging means in the form of a strap.

[0103] In certain embodiments, the batch 100 comprises - at least four containers 2, - at least one sub-batch comprising at least two of said containers 2 grouped and held together and - at least one conditioning device 1.

[0104] The packaging device 1 used for the formation of the batch 100 may be a belt 10, and contribute to keeping the containers 2 grouped together forming one or more sub-batches 110 and / or to keeping the batch 100 by surrounding at least two sub-batches 110 together.

[0105] According to the invention, the batch 100 can in fact be subdivided into at least one sub-batch. A sub-batch comprises at least two containers 2 held together. In particular, a sub-batch comprises a sub-group of at least two containers 2 and a packaging means, such as a strap and / or a packaging device 1 according to the invention.

[0106] According to additional characteristics, each sub-batch can bring together at most four containers 2. Each sub-batch can extend transversely, that is to say along the columns of the batch 100, or longitudinally, that is to say along the rows of said batch. The sub-batch(s) will advantageously be oriented according to the number of containers 2 forming the batch 100, in order to optimize its solidity.

[0107] In the context of handling or transporting the batch 100 thus formed, the sub-batch(s) will minimize the relative friction and movement of the containers 2, in particular the containers 2 located in the center of said batch 100. It is understood that depending on the number of containers 2, it is not always necessary to surround all the containers 2 in the form of a sub-batch prior to strapping a batch 100. In other words terms, in certain embodiments, certain containers 2 are free, individually, before being coated to form a batch 100.

[0108] The device 1 for packaging such a batch 100 may also be a handle 11, said handle 11 coming into contact either with a packaging device 1 in the form of a belt 10 or with another packaging means.

[0109] The invention also relates to a method implementing a packaging device 1 as described previously.

[0110] The method comprises at least one step of grouping at least two containers 2.

[0111] The method is characterized in that: - at least one packaging device 1 is affixed to the grouped containers 2, and - before the step of affixing at least one packaging device 1, at least one folding of at least one longitudinal edge 302 of the strip 3 of said device 1 is carried out against one of the faces 300, 301 of said strip 3 to form at least one fold 4.

[0112] In certain embodiments, the step of affixing a packaging device 1 corresponds to a step of strapping the batch 100, said step amounting to affixing at least one packaging device 1 in the form of a belt 10 around the group of containers 2 with sufficient tension to hold together said at least two containers 2 in a batch 100.

[0113] In certain embodiments, the step of affixing a packaging device 1 corresponds to a step of depositing on the batch 100 at least one packaging device 1 in the form of a handle 11, said handle 11 partially covering another packaging device 1, then in the form of a belt 10, or another strap-type packaging means.

[0114] In embodiments, the step of affixing a packaging device 1 in the form of a handle 11 is carried out after the grouping of at least two containers 2 but before the strapping step.

[0115] According to a possible additional characteristic, in such a packaging method, the containers 2 can be grouped into one or more sub-batches 101.

[0116] In such an embodiment: - at least two containers 2 are grouped into at least one sub-batch; - each sub-batch is surrounded with a packaging means, or with a packaging device 1 in the form of a belt 10; - the sub-batch(s) are wrapped by strapping in batch 100 with a packaging means or with a packaging device 1 in the form of a belt 10, - at least one of the two steps of surrounding a sub-batch and coating by strapping a batch 100 using a packaging device 1 according to the invention.

[0117] According to a possible additional characteristic, at least one container 2 is not part of a sub-batch. In other words, certain containers 2 can be grouped into a sub-batch, while other containers 2 remain free before being coated, with the sub-batch(s) to form a batch 100.

[0118] In embodiments, before wrapping by strapping the batch 100, the sub-batch(s) can be composed according to a transverse and / or longitudinal orientation relative to the largest dimension of the matrix formed by the batch 100 in order to optimize the strength of the batch 100. In other words, it is possible to group into one or more sub-batches containers 2 forming all or part of a row or forming all or part of a column within the batch 100. A sub-batch is composed of at most four containers 2, preferably two containers 2. It is also conceivable to have multiple configurations, with an arrangement of sub-batches distributed transversely and longitudinally relative to the batch 100. A configuration of a batch 100, comprising one or more sub-batches, arranged diagonally relative to the batch 100, is also possible.

[0119] The invention also relates to an installation 12 for packaging at least two containers 2 implementing the method of the invention, said installation thus producing batches 100 as described here in the various possible variants.

[0120] The batch packaging installation 12 is characterized in that it uses at least one packaging device 1, in particular as described here.

[0121] As visible in [Fig.12], the packaging installation 12 comprises in particular a grouping module 5 of at least two containers 2, and at least one affixing module 6 of at least one packaging device 1. The affixing module 6 comprises means for processing a roll 30 of material, of the paper type in particular, to form the strip 3 of the packaging device 1 according to the invention. Preferably, this affixing module may comprise a wrapping machine, and / or a wristlet machine.

[0122] The installation 12 comprises at least one folding module 7 of a packaging device 1, for folding at least one longitudinal edge 302 of the strip 3 of said device 1 against one of the faces 300 301 of said strip 3. Thus, the folding module 7 can be configured to fold a single longitudinal edge 302 of a strip 3 of a packaging device 1 or to fold the two longitudinal edges 302 of said strip 3. It is also possible to configure the folding module 7, in order to be able to vary the width 40 of a fold 4 according to the needs of the user. The folding module 7 is located upstream of the affixing module 6. As visible in [Fig. 12], the folding module 7 can supply several affixing modules 6 of packaging device 1.

[0123] In certain embodiments, the installation 12 comprises a grouping module for creating sub-batches 110. The grouping module creates sub-groups of containers 2. Thus, the installation 12 comprises a grouping module for creating sub-groups of containers 2, and a first module 6 for affixing a packaging device 1. The installation 12 then also comprises a grouping module 5 for grouping two sub-batches 110 together and possibly a second module 6 for affixing a packaging device 1. The grouping module 5 can also group together one or more sub-batches 101 with one or more so-called free containers 2. For example, the grouping module 5 can create a batch 100 by grouping four free containers 2 and one sub-batch, said sub-batch preferably being located between two columns of two free containers 2.

[0124] According to a possible characteristic, as visible in [Fig.12], when the packaging device 1 is a belt 10, the corresponding affixing module 6 is a strapping module 60.

[0125] In embodiments, the packaging installation 12 further comprises a sealing module for closing said belt 10 around the batch 100 by linking its opposite ends 101, 102, to close it on itself. This sealing module may be a module for activating adhesive by water, or by heat. According to an additional characteristic, the sealing module is an ultrasonic welding module.

[0126] According to a possible characteristic, the band sealing module is a module separate from the at least one affixing module 6 and in particular from the strapping module 60.

[0127] According to a possible variant visible in [Fig.12], when the packaging device 1 is a handle 11, the affixing module 6 is a module 61 for removing a handle 11.

[0128] In embodiments, the installation 12 comprises one or more grouping modules 5 and one or more affixing modules 6 of a packaging device 1.

[0129] According to a possible variant, the affixing module 6 forms both a strapping module 60 and a depositing module 61. In other words, the affixing module 6 is capable of depositing a device 1 in the form of a belt 10 and a device 1 in the form of a handle 11 around the batch 100.

[0130] Such a packaging device 1 has an excellent environmental impact and makes it possible to limit the quantity of waste generated, by the presence of at least one fold 4 which makes it possible to reinforce the resistance properties of said device 1 and therefore to lighten its weight, or to avoid having recourse to materials which are harmful to the environment.

[0131] Although the above description is based on particular embodiments, it is in no way limiting of the scope of the invention, and modifications may be made, in particular by substitution of technical equivalents or by different combination of all or part of the characteristics developed above.

Claims

Claims

1. Packaging device (1) for a compact batch (100) of at least two grouped containers (2), said containers (2) being bottles, flasks or bricks of rounded section, said device (1) comprising - a strip (3), said strip (3) having an inner face (300), an outer face (301) and two longitudinal edges (302), said packaging device (1) being for example in the form of a belt (10) surrounding the containers (2) or a handle (11) for handling said batch (100), at least one of said longitudinal edges (302) is folded against one of the faces (300), (301) of said strip (3) so as to form at least one fold (4) characterized in that the device (1) comprises an insert (8), said insert (8) being attached to one of the faces (300, 301) of the strip (3).

2. Packaging device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the insert (8) is attached to the face (300, 301) which has at least one fold (4), said insert (8) then being at least partly covered by at least one longitudinal edge (302).

3. Packaging device (1) according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that the insert (8) is made of paper or cardboard material.

4. Packaging device (1) according to claim 1, characterized in that the two longitudinal edges (302) are folded so as to each form a respective fold (4) and together completely cover one of the faces (300), (301) of the strip (3).

5. Packaging device (1) according to claim 3 or 4, characterized in that the folds (4) formed by the two longitudinal edges (302) are symmetrical.

6. Packaging device (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the strip (3) has a coating (9) on at least one of its faces (300), (301), preferably at least on its outer face (301), of the paint, glue, lacquer or treatment type.

7. Batch (100) of at least two containers (2) grouped together, characterized in that it comprises at least one device (1) of packaging according to claims 1 to 6, said at least one device having an inner side and an outer side.

8. Batch (100) according to claim 7, characterized in that the at least one packaging device (1) is a belt (10) surrounding the at least two containers (1) of said batch (100) so as to keep them grouped together, the inner side of said device (1) being placed against the peripheral wall of the containers 2.

9. Batch (100) according to claim 8, characterized in that the belt (10) is closed by overlapping its opposite ends (101) and (102), the adhesion between said ends being for example achieved by means of ultrasonic welding.

10. Batch (100) according to claim 7, characterized in that the at least one packaging device (1) is a handle (11) for gripping and lifting said batch (100) and in that one of the faces (300), (301) of the strip (3) of said device (1) comprises an adhesive coating (9), the inner side of said device (1) being affixed against the peripheral wall of at least two containers (1).

11. Batch (100) according to claim 7, characterized in that said batch (100) comprises at least two packaging devices (1), the first device (1) being a belt (10) which keeps the containers (2) grouped together and the second device (1) being a handle (11), the inner side of said handle (11) coming into contact with said belt (10) by partial or total transverse overlap.

12. Installation (12) for packaging at least two containers (2) in batches (100) according to any one of claims 7 to 11, comprising at least one grouping module (5) of at least two containers (2), characterized in that it comprises at least one affixing module (6) of at least one packaging device (1) according to claims 1 to 6, and at least one folding module (7) of a strip (3) of a packaging device (1) for folding at least one longitudinal edge (302) of the strip (3) of said device (1) against one of its faces (300), (301).

13. Packaging installation (12) according to the preceding claim, characterized in that the packaging device (1) is a belt (10) and in that the at least one affixing module (6) of at least one packaging device (1) is a strapping module (60).

14. Packaging installation (12) according to claim 12, characterized in that the packaging device (1) is a handle (11) and in that it comprises a second affixing module (6), the second affixing module (6) being a module (61) for depositing a packaging device (1) in the form of a handle (11).

15. Method for packaging at least two containers (2) in a batch (100) according to any one of claims 7 to 11, in which - at least two containers (2) are grouped together, method characterized in that, - at least one packaging device (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 6 is affixed to the group of at least two containers (2), and - before the step of affixing said at least one device (1), at least one folding of at least one longitudinal edge (302) of the strip (3) of said device (1) is carried out against one of the faces (300), (301) of said strip (3) to form at least one fold (4), the device (1) comprising an insert (8) attached to one of the faces (300, 301) of the strip (3).

16. Packaging method according to claim 15, characterized in that at least one packaging device (1) is a belt (10) and in that a wrapping is carried out by strapping the batch (100) by affixing at least one packaging device (1) in the form of a belt (10) with sufficient tension to maintain said at least two containers (2) in a batch (100).

17. Packaging method according to claim 15 or 16, characterized in that at least one packaging device (1) in the form of a handle (11) is placed on the batch (100), said handle (11) at least partially covering a packaging device (1) in the form of a belt (10).

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