Packaging for pastry-type food products, packaging assembly comprising such packaging, and packaging method using such packaging

Abstract

Packaging (1) for pastry-type food products, comprising: a plate (2) having at least one recess (3a, 3b) for receiving at least one product; at least one blocker (9); The packaging (1) being characterized in that it comprises a removable assembly system (10a, 10b) between the blocker (9) and the plate (2), such that the packaging (1) can assume: A disassembled position, in which the blocker (9) and the plate (2) are physically separated from each other; An assembled position, in which the blocker (9) is rigidly fixed to the plate (2) by engagement of the assembly system (10a, 10b), and in that, in the assembled position, the blocker (9) strictly covers a portion of the recess (3a, 3b) of the plate (2). Figure for the abstract: figure 1

Description

Title of the invention: Packaging for pastry-type food products, packaging assembly comprising such packaging and method of packaging using such packaging. FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to the field of packaging. More specifically, the invention relates to the field of packaging for fragile food products, such as pastries.

[0002] More specifically, the invention relates to packaging for such products which provides enhanced security for the products in their packaging, while not obscuring their visibility. technological BACKGROUND

[0003] Pastries are products that may have delicate substances on their surface, particularly for decorative purposes, such as viscous or soft substances like creams, fruits, ganaches, or icings, which can be damaged by simple contact. This degrades the aesthetic appearance of the pastries. Aesthetics are an important factor for consumers when choosing pastries, and one to which pastry manufacturers pay close attention. The packaging of such products must therefore be designed to limit the risk of damage, that is, to minimize any contact with the delicate substances.

[0004] Thus, in the field of packaging for pastry-type food products, it is known to use a tray with compartments in which the pastries are placed. More specifically, this type of packaging is intended for small, so-called "mini" pastries. The compartments are preferably individual so that the pastries do not touch each other. The tray is made of a sufficiently rigid material, for example cardboard or plastic, to ensure the separation of the pastries in their compartments. Document DE2828818 describes an example of such a tray.

[0005] The tray can then be used with a sleeve that covers the pastries. A transparent section, called a window, is generally formed on the upper part of the sleeve so that the consumer can see the pastries on the tray. The transparent section has the largest possible surface area to provide the best possible visibility of the pastries on the tray. The sleeve can be a sheath-type cover or a lid that fits onto the tray.

[0006] In order to prevent the sleeve from coming into contact with the pastries, it is known to form pillar-type elements bearing between the plate and the upper part of the sleeve in order to ensure a minimal gap between the upper part of the sleeve and the pastries. The weaving process limits the risk of contact. The pillars can be formed on the plate or on the case. US2005 / 0029258 describes an example of packaging containing such pillars.

[0007] However, this type of packaging requires the tray to be kept in a nearly horizontal position to prevent the pastries from slipping out of their holder. Therefore, special precautions must be taken, particularly by the consumer, when transporting the pastries, which can be cumbersome, especially when it is also necessary to avoid any contact with the fragile substances mentioned above.

[0008] Furthermore, it is common practice, and in some countries mandatory, to include a label with the packaging containing required information. To prevent the consumer from turning the packaging over to access the label, which would cause the pastries to fall out, the label is generally placed on the top of the box. The size of the label, which can be quite large, means that it is common to find at least part of it on the transparent part of the box, obscuring some of the pastries on the tray from the consumer's view. This lack of visibility of the products on the tray may discourage the consumer from purchasing them.

[0009] The invention aims in particular to provide a solution to the aforementioned drawbacks. Summary of the invention

[0010] Thus, the invention relates to packaging for pastry-type food products, comprising: • at least one plate equipped with at least one compartment intended to hold at least one food product; • at least one blocker;

[0011] The packaging further includes a removable assembly system between the blocker and the plate, so that the packaging can take: • a disassembled position, in which the blocker and the plate are physically separated from each other; • an assembled position, in which the blocker is rigidly fixed to the plate by engaging the assembly system.

[0012] In particular, in the assembled position, the blocker strictly covers a part of the plate housing.

[0013] Thus, the blocker keeps the food products in the tray's compartments, particularly during transport, while leaving the products visible to consumers. The packaging can therefore remain in the assembled position from the point of product packaging to the point of consumption, ensuring that the products stay in their compartments on the tray throughout all stages of transport.

[0014] Depending on different aspects, it is possible to foresee one and / or the other of the characteristics below taken alone or in combination.

[0015] According to one embodiment, the plate may include a device for securing the product in the housing which strictly covers a part of the housing of the plate, distinct from the part covered by the blocker.

[0016] Thus, the retention of the products in the housings of the plate is further improved, the products being held according to two distinct parts.

[0017] According to one embodiment, the blocker may include at least one pillar intended to bear against a lid of a case. The blocker thus performs a dual function by holding the products in the slots of the plate and by keeping a lid away from the products. The products are thus protected in their slots, limiting the risk of damage.

[0018] According to one embodiment, the assembly system is, for example, of the elastic deformation type, i.e., by snap-fit. Thus, the placement of the blocker on the plate, for example at the packaging location, and its subsequent removal, for example at the point of consumption, are facilitated.

[0019] According to one embodiment, the blocker may include mechanically reinforcing ribs. The blocker thus contributes to strengthening the rigidity and mechanical strength of the packaging in the assembled position, further increasing the safety of the food products.

[0020] According to one embodiment, the plate may comprise at least two housings, and in practice a plurality of housings, and in the assembled position, the blocker may strictly partially cover each housing of the plate. A single blocker thus makes it possible to cover several housings of the plate, facilitating the partial covering of the housings of the plate.

[0021] According to one embodiment, the packaging may include at least two blockers, and the plate may include at least two compartments. Each blocker can then only partially cover one compartment of the plate. This facilitates the placement of blockers to cover all the compartments of the plate, particularly when the plate is large and / or the number of compartments is significant. Furthermore, one blocker at a time can be removed at the point of consumption, so as to retain the blocker(s) for some of the compartments and keep the products to be consumed later in their compartments.

[0022] According to one embodiment, the plate and the blocker can be made of plastic. This reduces costs and allows for easy implementation of the required mechanical properties. For example, the plate and the blocker can be produced by molding, making it possible to obtain various shapes adapted to the intended uses.

[0023] According to a second aspect, the invention relates to a packaging assembly comprising at least one package as described above and at least one overpack, the package being placed inside the overpack. The packaging assembly makes it possible to limit contact between the food products in place on the package and the outside, as well as contact between the overpack and the food products in place on the package.

[0024] According to a third aspect, the invention relates to a packaging method for at least one pastry-type food product using packaging as described above. The method may include: • with the packaging in the disassembled position, the product is placed in a slot in the plate; • The blocker is placed on the plate so that the blocker strictly covers a portion of the housing. • The assembly system is engaged so that the packaging is in the assembled position. Brief description of the drawings

[0025] Embodiments of the invention will be described below with reference to the drawings, briefly described below:

[0026] [Fig-1] represents a three-dimensional, three-quarter view of a package according to a embodiment of the invention, comprising a plate and a blocker.

[0027] [Fig.2] represents the isolated blocker of [Fig.1];

[0028] [Fig.3] represents the isolated plate of [Fig.1];

[0029] [Fig.4] represents a top view of the packaging of [Fig.1];

[0030] [Fig.5] represents a detailed view along circle V of [Fig.4];

[0031] [Fig.6] represents a top view of packaging according to a second method of production lisation;

[0032] [Fig.7] represents a top view of packaging according to a third embodiment;

[0033] [Fig.8] represents a three-dimensional, three-quarter view of a package according to a fourth embodiment

[0034] [Fig.9] represents a three-dimensional three-quarter view of a packaging assembly comprising the packaging of [Fig.1];

[0035] [Fig. 10] a three-dimensional three-quarter view of a package according to a fifth embodiment;

[0036] [Fig. 11] represents a side cross-sectional view of two packages of [Fig. 10] stacked one on top of the other;

[0037] [Fig.12] is a detail view along circle XII of [Fig.11].

[0038] In the drawings, identical references designate identical or similar objects. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0039] The invention relates to packaging 1 for so-called fragile food products. Packaging 1 is particularly intended for pastries, especially individual ones.

[0040] Figure 1 shows a first embodiment of such packaging 1. The packaging 1 comprises a plate 2, provided with compartments 3a, 3b for holding pastries. More specifically, the plate 2 has a substantially flat upper surface 4, on which the compartments 3a, 3b form recesses. Each compartment 3a, 3b is defined by a bottom 5, substantially flat and parallel to the upper surface 4 of the plate 2, a lateral wall 6, and a rim 7. The bottoms 5 define a lower surface of the plate 2. Preferably, each compartment 3a, 3b is designed for a single pastry, to avoid contact between pastries. The shape and dimensions of each compartment 3 are adapted to the pastries. Thus, on the same plate 2, the compartments 3a, 3b can have different shapes and dimensions to hold different pastries.

[0041] In normal use, the plate 2 is positioned so that the upper surface 4 and the bottoms 5 are substantially horizontal, with the side walls 6 being substantially vertical; the plate 2 rests on the bottoms 5 forming the lower surface. Alternatively, feet may be formed on the lower side of the plate 2, on which the plate 2 rests.

[0042] According to the first embodiment, the plate 2 is generally rectangular in shape and comprises sixteen recesses 3 of two different types. A first type of recess 3a is called circular, because the rim 7 is substantially circular. It is intended to hold pastries of complementary shapes, such as tarts or cream puffs, for example. The second type of recess is called oblong, because the rim 7 is substantially oblong. It is intended to hold pastries of complementary shapes, such as éclairs or mille-feuilles, for example. The depth of the recesses 3a, 3b is adapted to allow the pastries to be held in the recess as long as the plate 2 remains in a substantially horizontal position, while leaving a portion of the pastry protruding from the recess 3a, 3b, above the upper surface 4 of the plate 2.

[0043] The housings 3a, 3b are distributed over the upper surface 4 of the plate 2. For example, as illustrated in the embodiment, the package 1 comprises twelve housings 3a of the first type, arranged around the periphery of the upper surface 4 of the plate 2, and four housings 3b of the second type, arranged in a line in the middle of the upper surface 4 of plate 2, surrounded by the housings 3a of the first type.

[0044] Each housing 3a, 3b can be provided with a notch 8 extending from the rim 7 along the side wall 6 so as to allow a user to place their finger in it to easily remove the pastry from the housing 3a, 3b.

[0045] The package 1 includes at least one blocker 9, which is attached to the plate 2 for assembly as described below. For this purpose, the package 1 includes a removable assembly system 10a, 10b between the plate 2 and the blocker 9, such that the package 1 can be configured as follows: - a disassembled position, in which the blocker 9 and the plate 2 are physically separated from each other; - an assembled position, in which the blocker 9 is rigidly fixed to the plate 2 by engagement of the assembly system 10.

[0046] Thus, in other words, the package 1 comprises two physically distinct parts, which are assembled to each other by engagement of the assembly system 6 in order to form a rigid assembly.

[0047] By removable, we mean here the ability of the assembly system 10a, 10b to be able to be engaged to move the package 1 from the disassembled position to the assembled position and to be disengaged to move from the assembled position to the disassembled position easily, preferably manually.

[0048] In the assembled position, the blocker 9 strictly covers a portion of each housing 3a, 3b of the plate 2, that is to say, the blocker 9 does not completely cover any housing 3a, 3b. More precisely, considering a characteristic dimension of a housing 3a, 3b, the blocker 9 covers only a portion of it over a dimension less than half of the characteristic dimension, preferably less than a quarter, and preferably even less than 1 / 5. For example, the blocker 9 extends beyond the rim 7 above a housing 3a, 3b over a dimension of approximately 1 cm (centimeter) maximum, or even approximately 20 mm (millimeters) maximum, and preferably even over a dimension between approximately 10 mm and 2.5 mm. According to an example, for a housing 3a of the first circular type, considering that the characteristic dimension is the diameter of approximately 48.6 mm of the bottom 5, the blocker 9 protrudes beyond the rim 7 by a dimension of approximately 2 mm.According to another example, for a housing 3b of the second type, oblong, considering that the characteristic dimension is a length of approximately 68 mm, the blocker 9 extends beyond the rim 7 by a dimension of approximately 10 mm. The blocker 9 can cover a housing by extending beyond the rim 7 over the entire perimeter of a housing 3a, 3b, or only over a portion of the perimeter.

[0049] The blocker 9 bears against the upper surface 4 of the plate 2 and extends beyond the edge 7 of each housing 3a, 3b over a portion of the opening surface which is as small as possible, in order to limit the portion of pastry that is hidden by the blocker 9. A single blocker 9 can be placed on the plate 2 to cover all the slots 3a, 3b, or several blockers can be used. According to the first embodiment, a single blocker 9 is used to cover all the slots 3a, 3b. The blocker 9 then has the form of a closed loop, substantially rectangular, and comprising four branches 9a, 9b, 9c, 9d, substantially linear and parallel in pairs. The blocker 9 is positioned around the slots 3b of the second type, while being surrounded by the slots 3a of the first type. Thus, the blocker 9 partially covers the first slots 3a of the first type over a single portion, while it covers the slots 3b of the second type over two distinct portions, arranged opposite each other with respect to the shape of the slot.For example, in the case of the second type of oblong housings, the two portions are each located on the rounded part of the rim 7, opposite each other lengthwise. In other words, the covered part for the 3b type housings of the second type in this example is formed by the two portions covered by the blocker 9.

[0050] More precisely, two parallel branches 9a, 9c each cover a portion of a housing 3b of the second type, so that a housing 3b of the second type is partially covered by each of these two hips 9a, 9c, over two distinct portions. The four other branches 9a, 9b, 9c, 9d each cover a portion of a housing 3a of the second type, so that each housing 3a of the first type is covered only by one of these branches 9a, 9b, 9c, 9d.

[0051] Thanks to the blocker 9, the pastries are held in their housing 3a, 3b, even when the plate 2 is tilted.

[0052] Preferably, each housing 3a, 3b, which is covered only in a single portion by the blocker 9, is provided with a wedging device 11 that strictly covers a portion of the housing 3a, 3b, which is preferably distinct from and opposite to that covered by the blocker 9. For example, in the case of circular housings 3a, the two portions are diametrically opposite, so as to ensure effective retention of a product in the housing 3a, 3b in the event of tilting of the plate. The wedging device 11 comprises, for example, a finger extending substantially parallel to the upper surface 4 of the plate, in line with it, from the edge 7 of the housing 3a, so as to partially cover the housing 3a.As with the blocker 9, the wedge 11 is designed to cover the cavity over a portion of minimal size, which may depend on the size and shape of the cavity 3a, 3b concerned, so as to limit the hidden portion of the pastry in the cavity 3a, 3b. According to the example in the figures, only the first type of cavity 3a are equipped with such a wedge 11; the 3b . oblongs of the second type, are devoid of them since they are covered on two distinct portions by blockers 9. In other words, for a housing 3a, 3b equipped with a shoring device, the covered part is formed by the portion covered by the blocker 9 and the portion covered by the shoring device 11.

[0053] Preferably, the total cover of a housing 3a, 3b, that is to say considering the two covered portions, either by a blocker 9 or by a blocker 9 and a shoring device 11, extends over a dimension which is less than half of the characteristic dimension of the housing 3a, 3b considered, preferably less than a quarter, and preferably still less than 1 / 5 of the characteristic dimension of the housing 3a, 3b considered.

[0054] The assembly system 10a, 10b is, for example, of the elastic deformation type, also called a snap-fit ​​or "click-fit" type. For this purpose, the material of the plate 2 and / or that of the locking device 9 must be sufficiently rigid and deformable to allow the elastic deformation required for this type of assembly. For example, they are made of plastic. For example, they are made of PET (polyethylene terephthalate), preferably recyclable.

[0055] The assembly system 10a, 10b thus comprises complementary elements on the plate 2 and on the locking device 9, i.e., elements designed to cooperate with each other to form the assembly. For example, the assembly system comprises at least one lug 10a, and in practice a plurality of lugs 10a projecting from the upper surface 4 of the plate 2. The locking device 9 comprises, on a lower face, recesses 10b complementary to the lugs 10a. Since the thickness of the locking device 9 is less than the depth of the recesses, the latter result, by complementarity, in visible bumps on an upper face 12 of the locking device 9.

[0056] Thus, the blocker 9 is assembled to the plate 2 by placing the lower face of the blocker 9 on the upper surface 4 of the plate 2 so as to insert the lugs 10a of the plate 2 into the recesses 10b of the blocker 9, for example by elastic deformation of the lugs 10a and / or the recesses 10b.

[0057] Thus, starting from a package 1 in the disassembled position, pastries are placed in the compartments 3a, 3b of the plate 2, where appropriate by sliding them under the finger of the securing device 11.

[0058] Then, the blocker 9 is placed on the plate 2 so as to engage the assembly system 10a, 10b and position the packaging 1 in the assembled position. The pastries are then held in their compartment 3a, 3b by the blocker 9 and, for the compartments 3a of the first type, by the securing device 11. From then on, the pastries can no longer come out of their compartment 3a, 3b, even when the plate 2 is not kept substantially horizontal, or even if it is turned 180° from its normal position.

[0059] To further reduce the risk of pastries coming out of their compartments 3a, 3b, an anti-roll device can be installed for all or some of the compartments 3a, 3b. For example, such a device is particularly advantageous in the second type of oblong compartments 3b, for retaining pastries that tend to roll like éclairs. According to one embodiment, the anti-roll device comprises at least one groove 13, and preferably a plurality of grooves, projecting from the lateral walls 8 of the compartments 3b, towards the interior of the compartments 3b. As illustrated in the figures, the grooves 13 can be arranged in two sets of three grooves 13, each set being on one long side of the oblong compartment 3b, and / or at least one groove 13, on each short side of the oblong compartment 3b.The 13 grooves of the anti-roll device can thus penetrate slightly, without piercing it, into the pastry shell, which is choux pastry in the case of an éclair, in order to prevent any potential rolling, for example in the event of jolts or impacts. The pastries can therefore now be in an ideal position to preserve their appearance and for the consumer.

[0060] Preferably, the assembly system 10a, 10b is reversible, that is to say that the package 1 can move from the assembled position to the disassembled position by separating the blocker 9 from the plate 2 without damaging the plate 2 or the blocker 9.

[0061] The packaging 1 is intended to be used with an overwrap, as will be explained later. For this purpose, the packaging 1 may be equipped with at least one pillar 14, and in practice a plurality, for example four, pillars 14. More precisely, the pillars 14 are formed as protrusions on the upper face of the blocker 9, and are arranged at the four corners of the rectangle, at the junction of two successive branches 9a, 9b, 9c, 9d. Their height, that is to say the distance between their apex and the upper surface 4 of the plate 2, is at least equal to, and of upper reference, the maximum height of the portion of pastry emerging from a recess 3a, 3b of the plate 2.

[0062] In order to increase the rigidity of the blocker 9 without increasing the amount of material, mechanically reinforcing ribs 15 can be formed. These ribs 15 extend, for example, in projection on the upper face 4 of the blocker 9, between the reinforcements 10b and the pillars 14, which can also contribute to increasing the rigidity of the blocker 9. The ribs 15 extend following the closed-loop shape of the blocker 9, that is, they also describe a substantially rectangular closed loop. The ribs 15 can form curved portions so as to follow the shape of the circular housings 3a when the blocker 9 is assembled to the plate 2.

[0063] The plate 2 and the blocker 9 are made of a rigid material that is elastically deformable, at least at the level of the assembly system 10a, 10b, so as to allow assembly in the manually assembled position and retention in the assembled position. For example, they are made of plastic by molding or using a technique called 3D printing.

[0064] The number of dwellings 3a, 3b and their arrangement may vary according to needs.

[0065] Thus, according to a second embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 6], the plate 2 still comprises sixteen 3a, 3b housings, ten 3a housings of the first type, and six 3b housings of the second type. The housings are arranged in a row, namely, successively a row of five 3a housings of the first type, a row of six 3b housings of the second type, and a row of five 3a housings of the first type. We do not describe again all the features of the packaging 1 already described for the first embodiment, except where there is a significant difference.

[0066] In particular, the blocker 9 is substantially similar to that of the first embodiment, namely that it is in the form of a substantially rectangular closed loop and comprises four branches 9a, 9b, 9c, 9d. However, the position of the pillars 14 is different from that of the first embodiment. Indeed, in the second embodiment, the pillars 14 are placed on two parallel branches 9a, 9c, at the four corners of a square.

[0067] In the assembled position of the package 1, the blocker 9 surrounds the housings 3b of the second type. Thus, as in the first embodiment, two parallel branches 9a, 9c of the blocker 9 each cover a portion of the housings 3b of the second type, so that each housing 3b of the second type is partially covered by each of these branches 9a, 9c. Furthermore, these same two branches each cover a portion of the housings 3a of the first type, so that each housing 3a of the second type is partially covered only by one of these branches 9a, 9c. The two other parallel branches 9b, 9d do not cover any housing, but ensure the rigidity of the blocker 9 and contribute to its assembly with the plate 2 by means of recesses 10b.

[0068] According to a third embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 7], the plate 2 comprises twenty-four housings 3a, 3b distributed in five parallel rows. For example, successively, a first row comprises four housings 3a of the first type, a second row comprises six housings 3b of the second type, a third row comprises four housings 3a of the first type, a fourth row comprises six housings 3b of the second type, and finally a fifth row comprises four housings 3a of the first type.

[0069] Packaging 1 may then comprise two substantially similar blockers 9. We do not describe again all the features of packaging 1 already described for the first embodiment, except where there is a significant difference.

[0070] Each blocker 9 forms, as before, a closed rectangular loop, and comprises four branches 9a, 9b, 9c, 9d. Unlike the first and second embodiments, each blocker 9 comprises two pillars 14, arranged at two diametrically opposite angles of the rectangle.

[0071] A first blocker 9 is assembled to the plate 2 so as to surround the second row of housings 3b, and the second blocker 9 is assembled to the plate 2 so as to surround the fourth row of housings 3b: each housing 3b of the second row and of the fourth row is partially covered by two parallel opposite branches 9a, 9c respectively of the first blocker 9 and of the second blocker 9.

[0072] It follows that the housings 3a of the first row as well as the housings 3a of the fifth row are each covered only by a single branch 9a respectively of the first blocker 9 and the second blocker 9. Thus, preferably, the housings 3a of the first row and the housings 3a of the fifth row are provided with a wedging device 11, disposed on a part of the housing 3a opposite to the part covered by the blocker 9.

[0073] It also follows that the housings 3a of the third row comprise a part covered by the first blocker 9 and a part covered by the second blocker 9. More precisely, each housing 3a of the third row comprises a part covered by a branch 9c of the first blocker 9 and a part covered by a branch 9c of the second blocker 9. Thus, the housings 3a of the third row + can be without a chocking device 11.

[0074] The plate 2 is preferably rimless on at least a portion of its periphery 2a. According to the first, second, and third embodiments, the plate 2 is preferably rimless on its entire periphery, that is, on all four sides of the rectangular shape. More precisely, the periphery 2a of the plate 2 is at the same level as the upper surface 4 of the plate 2. In other words, the rim 7 of the opening of the recesses 3a, 3b of the plate 2 is substantially at the same level as the periphery 2a of the plate 2. A rim along the periphery of the plate 2, with a very small height above the upper surface 4, may, however, be acceptable, for example, for reasons of rigidity of the plate 2.The very low height is on the order of a few millimeters and is considered in relation to the height of the portion of the pastries that emerges above the upper surface 4 when they are placed in the housings 3a, 3b of the plate 2. Indeed, as will be explained later, the absence of a rim or the low rim makes it possible to avoid obscuring the pastries.

[0075] Alternatively, according to a fourth embodiment illustrated in particular in [Fig. 8], the plate 2 comprises rims 2b on a portion of its periphery, for example along three sides of the rectangular shape, the fourth side being without a rim. The rims 2b extend above the upper surface 4 of the plate 2 to a height on the order of one centimeter, for example greater than 1 cm, and preferably greater than or equal to the height of the portion of the pastries which emerges above the upper surface 4 when they are placed in the spaces 3a, 3b of the plate 2.

[0076] According to this fourth embodiment, plate 2 comprises twenty-four dwellings, namely eighteen 3a dwellings of the first type and six 3b dwellings of the second type. Sixteen 3a dwellings of the first type are arranged along the periphery of surface 4 and distributed so as to form a contour following the shape of plate 2. For example, two long peripheral rows of six 3a dwellings are arranged each along one long side of the substantially rectangular plate 2, and two short peripheral rows of two 3a dwellings are arranged each along one short side, so as to form a rectangular contour. The six 3b dwellings of the second type are arranged within this contour in two rows of three 3b dwellings. A third short row of two 3a dwellings of the first type is placed substantially in the middle of plate 2, interposed between the two rows of the 3b dwellings of the second type.Plate 2 may also include pillars 14a formed of the same material as plate 2, for example arranged on the edges 2b in order to also provide rigidity to the edges 2b. Pillars 14a may also be formed at a distance from the edges on plate 2.

[0077] The packaging 1 can then comprise a single blocker 9 for surrounding the two rows of three housings 3b of the second type as well as each of the housings 3a of the first type in the short rows. Overall, the blocker 9 of the fourth embodiment corresponds to the two blockers 9 of the third embodiment joined by two bands intended to surround each one housing 3a of the first type in the middle short row, and each also comprising two further bands intended to surround each one housing 3a of the first type in the peripheral short rows. More precisely, the blocker 9 of the fourth embodiment comprises two closed, substantially rectangular loops, each loop being formed by four substantially linear branches 9a, 9b, 9c, 9d, parallel in pairs.On each loop, a first parallel branch 9a and a second parallel branch 9c extend to cover part of the second-type 3b slots that the loop encircles, for example, on the short side of the oblong 3b slots, so as to ensure that the pastries remain in the second-type 3b slots. These two branches 9a and 9c are connected by two other branches 9b and 9d, each extending from a first branch 9a to the second branch 9c, and beyond the second branch 9c. The first two branches 9a of the two loops. are connected by two 9e rings. For each loop, two other 9e rings are formed along the second branch 9c, between the other two branches 9b, 9d.

[0078] Pillars 14 can also be formed on the blocker 9. For example, according to the fifth embodiment, the pillars 14 of the blocker 9 are placed on the second branches 9c and the first branches 9a of the blocker 9. The height of the pillars 14 of the blocker is substantially equal to the height of the pillars 14a of the plate 2. The pillars 14 of the blocker 9 and the pillars 14a of the plate 2 are distributed so that when the package 1 is in the assembled position, the pillars 14, 14a are distributed substantially evenly.

[0079] When the blocker 9 is assembled to the plate 2 using the assembly system 10a, 10b, which is not described again here, the bands 9e are positioned substantially concentrically with the short rows of housings 3a of the first type, so as to strictly cover a portion of them. For example, the diameter of the bands 9e is smaller than the diameter of the rim 7 of the housings 3a of the first type. Thus, the housings 3a of the first type in the short rows can be left without a shim, the blocker 9 ensuring support around the entire perimeter of the rim 7 of the housing. The first arms 9a and the second arms 9c are positioned to cover the housings 3b on their short side as described above. The other two arms 9b, 9d cover a portion of the housings 3a of the first type in the long rows over a portion of the perimeter of the rim 7.A shimming device 11, for example a finger as described previously, can then be provided for these housings 3a. .

[0080] The packaging 1, comprising a plate 2 of the first, second, third, or fourth embodiment, is particularly intended to be part of a packaging assembly 100 in which it is combined with an overwrap of the case type 16. The case 16 is, for example, a cardboard box, generally parallelepiped in shape. The case 16 comprises, for example, a base, an upper wall 17, and side walls 18. According to the example in [Fig. 8], the case 16 includes a transparent portion 19, straddling the upper wall 17 and a so-called front side wall 18, forming a window. The transparent portion 19 is, for example, made of plastic and allows a consumer to see the inside of the case, i.e., the pastries in the compartments 3a, 3b of the plate 2.Preferably, the window 19 extends over most of the surface of the upper wall 17 and most of the front side wall 18, so as to ensure good visibility inside the case 16.

[0081] To package the pastries, for example at their place of production or at a site dedicated to packaging, they are placed one by one on the packaging 1 which is in the disassembled position, i.e. that the blocker 9 is not put in place and assembled to the plate 2 and the assembly system 10a, 10b is disengaged. The Slots 3a and 3b of the plate are thus exposed, and the pastries can be placed simply by setting them down. If a finger 11 of the securing device is present, the pastry can be slightly tilted to pass under the finger 1. The pastry generally has a substantially flat face, so that when this flat face comes into contact with the flat base 5 of its slot, the pastry remains substantially horizontal. Once all the pastries are placed in their slots 3a and 3b, according to their shape, the packaging 1 is moved to the assembled position; that is, the blocker 9, or blockers 9, are placed on the plate 2 so that each slot 3a and 3b is strictly partially covered by at least one blocker 9, preventing the pastries from coming out of their slots 3a and 3b.

[0082] The package 1 containing the pastries is then placed in the case 16 so that the bottoms 5 of the compartments 3a, 3b, or, where applicable, the feet, are in contact with the bottom of the case 16. For this purpose, the case 16 includes a lid providing access to the inside of the case and closing it. The lid may be formed, for example, on a lateral wall 18 of the case 16 or by the upper wall 17 and the lateral walls 18, which are held to the bottom by a band of material acting as a hinge. In this case, the bottom of the case 16 may have rims, with the lid fitting over the rims of the bottom. Once the package 1 is placed in the case 16, the lid is folded down onto the bottom to close the case 16.

[0083] The blocker 9 holds the pastries in position in their respective compartments 3a, 3b of the plate 2. The pillars 14 maintain a sufficient gap between the upper surface 4 of the plate 2 and the upper wall 17 of the case 16, relative to the height of the portion of the pastries protruding from the compartments 3a, 3b, to prevent the upper wall 17 from coming into contact with the pastries. The packaging assembly 100 thus formed keeps the pastries securely in their compartments, particularly during transport. The pastries remain visible in their compartments 3a, 3b through the window 19 of the case 16, as the blockers 9 only partially obscure them; that is, they are visible over almost their entire protruding portion outside the compartments. However, it is precisely on this part that fragile and decorative items are generally placed.Since window 19 extends over most of the surface of the upper wall 17 and the relevant side wall 18 of the carton, the consumer can largely see the products. The portion of window 19 on the front side wall 18 allows the blocker 9 to be concealed when the carton 16 is viewed along this front side wall 18, and only the food products to be seen. Furthermore, plate 2 is positioned in the carton 16 so that one side without a rim 2b is opposite the front side wall 18. The portion of pastry that protrudes from the corresponding compartment 3a, 3b, above the upper surface 4, is therefore not obscured by a rim of plate 2. The consumer is looking through the window portion on the front side wall 18. At the point of sale, the consumer can thus see the pastries aesthetically arranged on the tray 2 inside the case 16. For example, when the cases 16 are stacked on top of each other, the consumer can directly see the pastries through the window in the direction of the front side wall 18 and make their selection without having to remove the stacked packaging sets 100 or open the cases 16.

[0084] The surface area for communication with the consumer is also increased, since the entire surface of the base of the case 16, on the outside, can be used for this purpose. Indeed, thanks to the blocker 9, the packaging assembly 100 can be turned over without damaging the pastries, which remain inside. When the consumer needs to transport the pastries from the point of sale to the place of consumption, such as the consumer's home, the packaging assembly 100 can be handled with minimal precautions.

[0085] To take the pastries, the consumer opens the lid of the case 16 to access the packaging 1. For example, the case 16 may include, on a rear side wall, a pre-cut pull tab (not visible in the figure) securing the lid to the base. The lid can be detached from the base by the consumer by pulling on the pull tab. This system limits the risk of inadvertently opening the case and allows verification that the case has not already been opened. The lid can then be lifted and the packaging 1 can be completely removed from the case 16, for example by placing the bases 5 directly on a support such as a table, or the packaging can be left in the case 16, with the lid formed by the upper wall 17 and the side walls open.In one embodiment, the base of the sleeve 16 is surrounded by rims that are not joined together, or that can be easily detached manually along their joining line, for example, by means of pre-cuts. These rims are at least partially covered by the side walls of the lid when the lid closes the sleeve 16, so as to keep them substantially perpendicular to the base. When the lid is lifted to open the sleeve 16, a rim can be lowered, allowing the package 1 to be slid out of the sleeve 6, thus limiting the risk of spilling and damaging the pastries. The stopper(s) 9 can be removed by moving the package 1 into the disassembled position. The pastries can then be extracted from their housing 3a, 3b, possibly using the notch 8 to lift them and, if necessary, tilt them slightly to release them from the finger 11.If necessary, the blocker 9 can be put back in place on the plate 2 by the consumer by engaging the assembly system 10a, 10b, the packaging 1 being again in the assembled position for example to be stored.

[0086] According to a fifth embodiment, the packaging 1 has characteristics enabling it to be stacked with identical or similar packaging 1s. An example is described with reference to [Fig. 10].

[0087] According to the fifth embodiment, the plate 2 is substantially similar to that of the fourth embodiment, except that it includes a rim around its entire periphery. Thus, for a plate 2 with a substantially rectangular shape, it includes a rim 2b on each of its four sides. The blocker 9 is, as shown in [Fig. 10], identical to that of the fourth embodiment. The characteristics of the plate 2 and the blocker 9, which are identical to those of the fourth embodiment, are not described again.

[0088] According to the fifth embodiment, the pillars 14, 14a each have a top at the same height, together defining an upper stacking surface 20, such that a lower stacking surface 21 of the plate 2 of another package 1 can rest upon it. Alternatively or in combination, the tops of the edges 2b may also form part of the upper stacking surface 20. In one embodiment, anti-slip means may be provided to prevent two stacked packages 1 from sliding relative to each other. For example, the tops of all or some of the pillars 14, 14a may have a recess 22, and the lower stacking surface 21 of the plate 2 may have the same number of pegs 23.The lower stacking surface 21 may be coplanar with the lower surface of plate 2 formed by the bottoms 5 of the housings 3a, 3b, or be slightly recessed so that the free surface of the pegs 23 is coplanar with the lower surface of plate 2. For example, the pegs 23 are formed on feet 24 of plate 2, on the side of the lower surface of plate 2.

[0089] The packaging 1 comprising a plate 2 according to the fifth embodiment is particularly suitable for use as part of a packaging assembly 100 in which it is combined with a crate-type overpack for stacking the packages 1. The crate may, more specifically, be of the so-called American type, made of cardboard, with standard dimensions. By providing plates adapted to the standard dimensions of the crates, packages 1 according to the fifth embodiment can be stacked one on top of the other, by placing the lower stacking surface 22 of a package 1 on the upper stacking surface 20 of a plate previously placed in the crate. This type of overpack is particularly intended for the delivery of large quantities of products to professionals, so it is not important to ensure that the products inside the crate are visible.

[0090] The presence of the edges 2a around the entire periphery of the plate 2 provides increased rigidity of the plate 2 compared to previous embodiments, and in particular sufficient rigidity for stacking the plates 2 with Food products are placed in compartments 3a and 3b. The height of the pillars 14 and 14a ensures that the stacked plates 2 do not crush the products in compartments 3a and 3b. The stacking is preferably done head-to-tail, meaning that two successive plates 2 are rotated 180° relative to each other, in order to ensure a distribution of forces. More specifically, for this purpose, the feet 24 and the pillars 14 and 14a are arranged so that two successive plates 2 must be head-to-tail to ensure that the pins 23 of the upper plate 22 fit into the corresponding recesses 22 of the plate 2 below. According to one embodiment, in the absence of a head-to-tail reversal, two successive stacked plates 2 fit into one another, the pillars 14, 14a of the lower plate 2 sliding into recesses formed by the pillars 14, 14a on the lower surface of the upper plate 2.The stacking of the plates 2 can thus be particularly compact, which is particularly advantageous for the transport of the plates 2 from their place of manufacture to their place of filling, i.e. to the place of packaging the products, before placing products in the housings 3a, 3b. .

[0091] To facilitate and reduce manufacturing costs, and in a manner that is independent of the blocker 9, a mold for molding the plates 2 has been developed which has a removable front face. Thus, to manufacture a plate 2 intended for use with a carton-type overwrap 16, the front face of the mold is removed, and a plate 2 conforming to the fourth embodiment can be obtained. To manufacture a plate 2 intended for use with a crate-type overwrap, the front face of the mold is installed, and a plate 2 conforming to the fifth embodiment can be obtained.Thus, with the same mold having standard dimensions, it is possible to manufacture both plates 2 intended to be placed in cases 16 with a window on the case to see the products arranged on the plates, and plates 2 intended to be stacked in a crate, and to quickly switch from one type of plate to the other without revising the entire manufacturing process. The same blocker 9 can be used for all plates obtained from such a mold, with or without a front face.

[0092] Although the present description has been made with the example of pastries, packaging 1 is also suitable for any other type of fragile food product that needs to be kept in a compartment, particularly during transport.

[0093] The packaging 1 thus formed increases the safety of the products placed in the compartments 3a, 3b of the plate thanks to the blocker 9 and prevents them from tipping over. The packaging 1 can be adapted to overpacks of standard dimensions by modifying, for example, the arrangement of the compartments 3a, 3b according to their shape and the number of compartments 3a, 3b required. The packaging 1 is thus suitable for industrial packaging.

[0094] It is then possible to personalize the overwrap, i.e., the carton or the box, according to the contents, without changing the shape and dimensions of the carton. For example, a label bearing legal information can be affixed to the bottom of the overwrap, on the outside. Preferably, legal information can be laser-marked. Indeed, laser marking is indelible, whereas a label can peel off. Thus, it is not necessary to pre-print all the overwraps with the legal information according to the packaged food products: managing identification as production progresses, by marking, is more flexible and limits the creation of leftover stock, for example, when there is a change in the product composition within the packaging.In addition, the same pre-printed design for a seller, for example representing their brand and / or logo, on a type of overpack can allow for simple changes to the recipe information or the language used for the information, by laser marking.

Claims

Claims

1. Packaging assembly (100) comprising at least one packaging (1) for pastry-type food products, the packaging (1) comprising: - at least one plate (2) provided with at least one housing (3a, 3b) intended to receive at least one food product; - at least one blocker (9); the packaging (1) being characterized in that it comprises a removable assembly system (10a, 10b) between the blocker (9) and the plate (2), so that the packaging (1) can take: - a disassembled position, in which the blocker (9) and the plate (2) are physically separated from each other;- an assembled position, in which the blocker (9) is rigidly fixed to the plate (2) by engagement of the assembly system (10a, 10b), in that, in the assembled position, the blocker (9) strictly covers a part of the housing (3a, 3b) of the plate (2), and in that the packaging assembly (100) comprises at least one overpack (16) of the case type, the packaging (1) being placed inside the overpack (16).;

2. Packaging assembly (100) according to claim 1, in which the plate (2) comprises a device (11) for wedging the product in the housing (3a, 3b) which strictly covers a part of the housing (3a, 3b) of the plate (2), distinct from the part covered by the blocker (9).

3. Packaging assembly (100) according to claim 1 or claim 2 in which the blocker (9) comprises at least one pillar (14) intended to bear against a cover of a case (16).

4. Packaging assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the assembly system (10a, 10b) is of the elastic deformation type.

5. Packaging assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the blocker (9) comprises mechanical reinforcing ribs (15).

6. Packaging assembly (100) according to any one of the claims

7.

8.

9. previous, in which the plate (2) comprises at least two housings (3a, 3b), and in which, in the assembled position, the blocker (9) strictly partially covers each housing (3a, 3b) of the plate (2). Packaging assembly (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 5 comprising at least two blockers (9), in which the plate (2) comprises at least two housings (3a, 3b), and in which each blocker (9) strictly partially covers a housing (3a, 3b) of the plate (2). Packaging assembly (100) according to any one of the preceding claims, in which the plate (2) and the blocker (9) are made of plastic. Packaging method for at least one pastry-type food product using a packaging assembly (100) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, comprising: - the packaging (1) being in the disassembled position, said product is placed in a housing (3a, 3b) of the plate (2); - the blocker (9) is placed on the plate (2) so that the blocker (9) strictly covers a part of the housing (3a, 3b), - the assembly system (10a, 10b) is engaged so that the packaging (1) is in the assembled position.

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