Object packaging system

Abstract

Object packaging system comprising: - at least six individual removable walls that can be assembled together to form a rectangular parallelepiped-shaped box, - reversible fastening systems, each comprising a first element attached to a first individual wall and a second element attached to a second individual wall, each reversible fastening system being adapted to reversibly assume a fastening configuration in which the first and second elements are attached to each other and a release configuration in which the first and second elements are free from each other. Figure for the abbreviation: Fig. 7

Description

Title of the invention: Object packaging system FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to conditioning systems. TECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND

[0002] Today, the policy of democratizing and sharing culture has led to a significant increase in the number of temporary exhibitions in museum, art, and cultural institutions worldwide. This desire to disseminate culture is accompanied by a significant sharing of national and private collections among institutions for the presentation of works in these exhibitions. Some institutions hold an average of two to three temporary exhibitions each year, showcasing numerous objects loaned by other institutions from the same country or from abroad. At the same time, these same institutions also lend part of their collections to other institutions for their exhibitions.

[0003] These exchanges represent tens of thousands of works packaged and transported each year around the world using dedicated packaging.

[0004] Since the transport involves works of art, which have specific requirements, at least in terms of security, art packaging must meet very demanding specifications. Currently, almost all such packaging is custom-made according to the number, dimensions, and characteristics of the objects to be transported, with a view to single use. Once the works have been transported, this packaging is very difficult to adapt for the transport of other works whose number, dimensions, and characteristics are significantly different.

[0005] For small and medium-sized objects, several packaging methods exist. The most common can be called "foam cutouts" and "carrying box cutouts." "Foam cutouts" consist of lining a box with several layers of polyethylene or polyurethane foam, into which the shape of the objects to be transported is roughly cut. "Carrying box cutouts," on the other hand, are intended for the most fragile or complex objects and consist of cutting the foam as closely as possible to the shape of the object to completely enclose it. A contact interface material is then integrated between the foam and the object by embedding the edges of the interface material in the foam. To do this, cutouts are made around the cut-out shape in the foam and the contact material, for example, a polyethylene fiber fabric marketed under the Tyvek® branded material with a priority date, or a non-woven polyester material marketed under the Bondina® brand with a priority date, is inserted to immobilize it. The cut and coated foam layers, and the objects placed within the cutouts, are then placed in custom-made crates or boxes. These crates and boxes are generally made of wood, usually at least partially constructed of composite plywood, and lined internally with polyethylene or polyurethane foam. Once the artwork has been transported in its packaging, it is typically displayed at the receiving institution for several months. Complex logistics and very large storage space are required to maintain the dedicated packaging during this time in preparation for the return journey.Such storage also exposes the institution to risks, as the crates pose a risk of creating infestations of wood-boring insects or rodents, which can quickly become critical and difficult-to-control situations endangering the collections. Since these crates are made of wood, they are also lined internally with a polyethylene vapor barrier, and the wood is treated to prevent infestation by wood-boring insects, which limits its potential for reuse.

[0006] The use of these containers is, in fact, single-use and does not allow for reuse, which necessitates significant consumption of these materials and consequently generates an equivalent amount of polluting waste. Thus, it is estimated that this process currently generates thousands of tons of waste, largely non-recyclable, with an inevitably heavy environmental impact.

[0007] The cutting process also presents other technical challenges. First, each cut requires transferring the shape of each object to be inserted onto the foam using a permanent marker. This step is particularly delicate because, if careless, the marker may come into contact with the artwork and leave a mark. The artwork then requires a lengthy and costly restoration process to remove the mark. The second challenge is user safety. Cutting foam necessitates the use of cutting tools such as electric foam saws or utility knives. Using these tools inevitably carries the risk of cuts or accidents.

[0008] Certain works are subject to specific prerequisites for their transport. For example, it is known to use insulated crates. These insulated crates, built on the model presented above, also include an inner layer of extruded polystyrene, which also presents issues of recovery or recycling.

[0009] The known crates are locked by simply screwing the sides together. They are difficult to transport. This results in handling problems for personnel exposed to heavy loads, and a lack of ergonomics. both during assembly and disassembly.

[0010] In the particular case of works called "two-dimensional", that is to say typically paintings and other graphic arts, a transport case is known which receives adjustable movable wedges fitted to the corners of the frames and fixed to the bottom of the case by hook and loop fastener to fix them in the case.

[0011] These systems are therefore complex to use and also require staff training.

[0012] A tray crate is also known for the simultaneous transport of a large quantity of small-format works, particularly two-dimensional ones, especially watercolors. Each thin tray can hold one or more watercolors. The trays are removable. This tray crate, when the trays are removed, can also be used for three-dimensional works, but this is not its primary purpose and the results are inconclusive for this application.

[0013] We therefore seek to develop new packaging for works of art which respond at least to one of the problems set out above. Summary of the invention

[0014] Thus, the invention relates to a packaging system for objects comprising: - at least six individual removable partitions that can be assembled together to form a rectangular parallelepiped-shaped box, - reversible fixing systems each comprising a first element attached to a first individual wall and a second element attached to a second individual wall, each reversible fixing system being adapted to take reversibly a fixing configuration in which the first and second elements are attached to each other and a release configuration in which the first and second elements are free from each other.

[0015] Thanks to these provisions, we have standard crates, suitable for transporting works of art, reusable, and occupying a small volume when not in use.

[0016] Depending on various aspects, it is possible to provide for one and / or the other of the provisions below.

[0017] At least one individual wall, and in particular each individual wall, comprises an inner face, an outer face and a thermally insulating layer between the two faces.

[0018] At least one individual wall, and in particular each individual wall, comprises an extended structural panel and at least one accessory attached to the panel.

[0019] At least one inner face, and in particular each inner face, carries shock absorbers which protrude inwards relative to the panel, and each include a deformable foam buffer strip.

[0020] The buffer strips of the same wall extend parallel to each other.

[0021] The buffer strips extend horizontally.

[0022] The buffer strips of the same wall extend at regular intervals in the opposite direction to their direction of extension.

[0023] Each buffer strip is covered at least on its inward-facing side with a thin, smooth contact layer.

[0024] The buffer strips are symmetrical.

[0025] A buffer strip is fixed to the inner wall by screwing through a hole passing through it and through a thin smooth contact layer covering at least the face of the buffer strip turned inwards, the screw being retracted into the shock absorber.

[0026] The reversible fastening system is a toggle system.

[0027] The first element is permanently fixed to the first individual wall and the second element is permanently fixed to the second individual wall.

[0028] Any edge formed by two walls has at least one fastening system, in particular several fastening systems distributed along the edge.

[0029] The lower wall has a rib projecting from its inner face, in which the upper wall has a rib projecting from its inner face, and in which a side wall, and in particular each side wall, is adapted to butt against these ribs when assembled to the lower and upper walls.

[0030] At least two opposing side walls include handles.

[0031] The object conditioning system includes feet removably fixed to the lower wall.

[0032] The upper wall includes a foot attachment motif.

[0033] The walls are identical and interchangeable in symmetrical pairs.

[0034] Each lower or upper wall has a guide surface adapted to guide the positioning of a side wall until it reaches its stop. Thus, the walls are not fitted, snapped together, or mechanically assembled in pairs by mechanically cooperating forms.

[0035] According to another aspect, the invention relates to such an object conditioning system further comprising at least one feature of the crate system as presented herein.

[0036] According to another aspect, the invention relates to such an object conditioning system further comprising at least one box comprising at least one feature of the box as presented here and arranged in the crate.

[0037] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a cash register system comprising all the characteristics of the cash register system of such a condi- object operation.

[0038] According to another aspect, the invention relates to an individual component comprising all the characteristics of the individual component of such an object conditioning system.

[0039] According to another aspect, the invention relates to the use of such a packaging system, such a crate system, or such an individual component, for the transport of works of art.

[0040] According to another aspect, the invention relates to a method for preparing packaging for objects comprising: - at least six individual removable partitions are provided, - the six individual removable walls are assembled together with reversible fixing systems, each comprising a first element attached to a first individual wall and a second element attached to a second individual wall, each reversible fixing system being adapted to take reversibly a fixing configuration in which the first and second elements are attached to each other and a release configuration in which the first and second elements are free from each other, to form a rectangular parallelepiped box.

[0041] According to one embodiment, the six individual walls are assembled by guiding them to a stop.

[0042] Depending on the embodiment, the main qualities are adaptability to any type of three-dimensional object and durability, as the system components are reusable over time. Simple, economical, environmentally friendly, and secure transport of artworks can thus be implemented, while maintaining the guarantees offered by the crates and packaging currently used in museums. Brief description of the drawings

[0043] Embodiments of the invention will be described below with reference to the drawings, briefly described below:

[0044] [Fig. 1] represents a three-dimensional view of an example of the realization of a box in a sealed configuration.

[0045] [Fig.2] is a vertical cross-sectional view in the box of [Fig.1], in closed configuration, in the XZ plane.

[0046] [Fig.3] is a view of the box of [Fig.2] in the vertical section orthogonal to it.

[0047] [Fig.4] is a view according to the same section as [Fig.2], in closed configuration for the transport of three works.

[0048] [Fig.5] is a view of the box of [Fig.4] in the vertical section orthogonal to this one, on which the crown was not depicted.

[0049] [Fig.6] is a schematic vertical cross-sectional view of an empty assembled box according to a first method of implementation.

[0050] [Fig.7] is a view similar to [Fig.6] for the assembled box filled with boxes.

[0051] [Fig.8] is a magnification of a part of [Fig.6].

[0052] [Fig.9] is a schematic cross-sectional view of two side walls of the front body interlocking for storage.

[0053] [Fig. 10] is a view similar to [Fig.9] for the upper and lower walls fitted together for storage.

[0054] [Fig. 11] is a magnification of a part of [Fig. 6].

[0055] [Fig. 12] is a front view of the narrow side wall.

[0056] [Fig. 13] is a view similar to [Fig. 12] for a wide side wall.

[0057] [Fig. 14] is a view similar to [Fig. 12] for a lower wall.

[0058] [Fig. 15] is a three-dimensional perspective view of an embodiment of the system.

[0059] In the drawings, identical references designate identical or similar objects. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0060] Figure 1 schematically represents, in three-dimensional view from the outside, a box 16 according to a first embodiment of the invention. The box 16 is shown in this figure in its closed configuration. The box 16 generally has the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped. It will be noted subsequently that, according to the invention, it is the interior space of the box 16 that has the shape of a rectangular parallelepiped. The external shape of the box 16 may differ more or less from a strictly rectangular parallelepiped shape, for functional and / or aesthetic reasons.

[0061] For this invention, in which gravity plays a role, the horizontal plane is designated by the X and Y axes, and the vertical plane by the Z axis. To clarify, the box 16 is shown with its faces arranged parallel to the XY, XZ, and YZ planes. As shown in [Fig. 1], the box 16 has a bottom and a top in the vertical direction Z. For clarity, the terms "bottom" and "top" will be used hereafter with reference to the orientation illustrated in [Fig. 1]. However, during its use, the box could be used in a different orientation.

[0062] The box 16 thus has a lower wall 17 and an upper wall 18. The lower wall 17 rests on the ground, and the upper wall 18 is positioned opposite it. The box 16 therefore has four lateral walls 19 extending between the lower wall 17 and the upper wall 18.

[0063] Figure 2 is a schematic cross-sectional view of the interior of the box 16, and Figure 3 is a view in the vertical plane orthogonal to it. Each wall 17, 18, 19 has an interior face represented by an index i and an exterior face represented by an index e. As can be seen in particular in Figure 2, the interior faces 17i, 18i and 19i form a rectangular parallelepiped whose edges are aligned with the X, Y and Z axes.

[0064] This enclosure 16 can comprise a body 21 forming a tank and a lid 22 removable from the body 21. In the embodiment shown, the body 21 comprises the lower wall 17 and the side wall 19 of the enclosure, and the lid 22 comprises the upper wall 18 of the enclosure. The enclosure 16 can thus be configured alternately as an open enclosure, in which access to the interior space of the enclosure 16 is possible, in this case from above, and a closed enclosure, in which the interior space is not accessible. In one embodiment, the lid 22 of the enclosure is completely separable and independent of the body 21. In an alternative embodiment, the enclosure 16 can be placed in an open configuration, with the lid 22 remaining attached to the body 21.

[0065] The enclosure 16 can be made of a rigid plastic shell 1 or any other polymer material. This provides vapor tightness. In one embodiment, the enclosure is isothermal to protect the artwork from temperature shocks and humidity variations. In this embodiment, each wall comprises an outer portion 23 and an inner portion 24 separated by a layer of insulating material 2, for example, injected material. In one embodiment, each wall is molded in one piece, the insulating layer being completely enclosed between the two portions to prevent any risk of moisture infiltration, and the walls are permanently (or removably, in the case of the lid) joined together. In another embodiment, the body 21 is molded in one piece, the insulating layer being completely enclosed between the two portions to prevent any risk of moisture infiltration.

[0066] The inner face of the lower wall 17 of the body 21 can be lined with a continuous layer of foam 10 extending over its entire surface. The inner face of the lid 22 can be lined with a fixed, continuous layer of foam 11 extending over its entire surface. This layer of foam 11 can be fixed in a cavity of the lid 22 delimited by the rib 12.

[0067] Corners and edges may be slightly rounded to reduce the risk of accidents for the user.

[0068] According to one embodiment, the boxes 16 can be shaped to allow their vertical stacking. For example, the lid 22 includes a slightly raised rim 3 offset outwards, and the body 21 includes a recess 4 in the The lower wall 17, with dimensions adjusted to the edge 3, or vice versa. In this way, it will be possible to stack several boxes by fitting the body 21 of the upper box into the lid 22 of the lower box. Their stability would then be ensured when stacked.

[0069] Handles 5 may be provided. For example, the handles 5 may be molded directly into the outer portion of two opposing side walls 19 of the body 21. For example, the handles 5 are arranged on the two shorter sides of the containers to allow them to be carried with a comfortable and secure grip. In one embodiment, the handles do not protrude from the side wall 19. They are formed by a recess in the side wall 19. In the isothermal embodiment, the isothermal layer is then significantly thinner in these areas, or even completely eliminated.

[0070] On the contour of the edges of the body 21 or the cover 22, a sealing gasket 6 is provided which ensures the perfect sealing of the box once it is closed.

[0071] The closure of the box 16 is ensured by any suitable locking system. For example, metal toggle latches 7 can be used. The choice of toggle latches is justified by the speed of opening and closing, their strength and durability.

[0072] According to one embodiment, these toggle latches are arranged in pairs on each of the two longest sides of the box to ensure maximum pressure on the entire edge of the box.

[0073] The toggle latches can be attached to the body 21 in any suitable manner. According to one embodiment, they are arranged in suitable recesses so as not to protrude from the outer face of the side wall 19 of the box 16. In the isothermal embodiment, the isothermal layer of the body 21 would be locally thinned or removed.

[0074] The locking mechanisms, particularly the toggle latches, may be fitted with integrated locks. The presence of a lock integrated directly into the toggle latches ensures the locking of the container and the security of the objects inside.

[0075] According to one embodiment, a document holder 25 is integrated into the body 21. The document holder 25 can be located on one of the two longer sides of the case. For example, a recess a few millimeters deep is formed in a side panel 19 and closed by a transparent insert 8, for example made of flexible plastic. The insert 8 is attached to the body 21 at its lower end by a system of interlocking notches, and at its upper end by two clips, leaving a gap between the insert 8 and the outer face of the side panel 19. In this way, opening and closing it would be simple, as would replacing it if necessary. Documents can then be placed in it without needing to tape them to the box.

[0076] Thus, a "box system" is called a plurality of structural components that can be assembled, assembled to each other or not, which, when assembled to each other, form a box, as described above, in a closed or open configuration.

[0077] The object packaging system also includes individual deformable removable components 20. In a first embodiment, some of the individual deformable removable components 20 are identical. In particular, they are all identical. They have a shape that allows them to be tiled within the interior volume of the box 16. In one embodiment, where the interior volume of the box 16 is a rectangular parallelepiped, the individual deformable removable components have a rectangular parallelepiped shape. In particular, they have a cubic shape, which allows them to be placed with any orientation along the three axes within the interior volume. In one embodiment, the individual deformable components are made of foam. Therefore, they are elastically deformable when subjected to a suitable force.The volume of a deformable individual removable component 20 at rest is, for example, between 50 and 200 cubic centimeters (cm3).

[0078] Due to the realization of the individual deformable components in the form of a rectangular parallelepiped within an internal volume of rectangular parallelepiped shape, these are arranged in horizontal layers, as seen in figures 2 and 3. In this example of embodiment, three layers of such components 20 are provided. Depending on the embodiment, the number of layers may differ.

[0079] The interior space of the housing 16 and the individual deformable removable components 20 are dimensioned so that the latter fill the interior space of the housing 16 when elastically deformed. Elastic deformation is ensured by the closure of the cover 22 onto the body 21. Thus, in the Z direction, the height of the interior space between the upper face of the foam layer 10 and the lower face of the foam layer 11 is slightly less than a whole number of times the height of an individual deformable removable component 20 at rest. This constraint makes it possible to hold the individual components 20 in place. It is not necessary to provide fastening mechanisms to assemble the individual components 20 together.

[0080] The object packaging system also includes deformable surface components 29 adapted to physically separate the artworks from the surrounding foam and reduce the abrasive effect of the latter. These are, for example, flexible textile or other components adapted for wrapping the artworks.

[0081] These surface components 29 can be directly assembled to the foam using a smoother by inserting the edges of these components into the spaces already existing between the layers of cubes.

[0082] A rib 12, slightly less than the thickness of the foam layer 11, runs around its perimeter. The outer face of the rib 12 cooperates with the inner face 19i of the side wall 19 of the body 21, allowing the lid 22 to be inserted into the body 21, limiting its movement even in the event of an impact. This rib 12 can also be used to insert, with the aid of a spatula, a flexible surface coating 13 specifically adapted for the preservation of artworks. This flexible surface coating 13, which can be installed or not and replaced at will, protects the foam layer 11 of the lid from potential damage. It also protects the artworks from the foam layer 11, which is generally abrasive to fragile and sensitive objects. The lining material 13, once inserted, is then pinched between the rib 12 and the foam layer 11 and held in place for as long as necessary.

[0083] Figure 4 represents an implementation of the box 16 shown above for the Simultaneous transport of three works. Alternatively, crate 16 could be used to transport a single work, two works, or strictly more than three works. In particular, [Fig. 4] is shown in a vertical plane, but works can have various extensions and / or positions in the direction normal to the cutting plane of [Fig. 4], as seen in [Fig. 5].

[0084] Thus, to transport the artwork or artworks, individual components 20 are removed according to the smallest volume strictly greater than the volume of the artwork. The artwork is always separated from the lower wall 17 by at least the foam layer 10. The artwork is always separated from the upper wall 18 by at least the foam layer 11. The artwork is always separated from the side wall 19 by at least individual components 20. The artworks are always separated from each other by at least one individual component 20. Thus, as can be seen in Figures 4 and 5, for the transport of a first artwork 28a, an entire column of individual components 20 is removed, and the artwork 28a is placed in the corresponding free space. For the transport of a second artwork 28b, a plurality of individual components 20 from the upper layer are removed.For the transport of a third work 28C, a plurality of individual components 20 of the top and middle layers are removed.

[0085] Depending on the arrangement of the cubes in length, width and depth, the empty spaces created between the remaining individual components allow the integration of virtually any type of work.

[0086] In the event that the space created by the removal of the individual components does not quite correspond to the dimensions of the work, small shims 14 are added between the work and the nearby foam to fill the remaining void and secure the work. The 14 cushions can be made from foam scraps from other packaging, or from recyclable elements such as crumpled tissue paper rolls or others.

[0087] If necessary, it could be accepted to cut out a small number of individual components removed 20 as shims 14. These would then constitute one of the only waste items produced.

[0088] Once the transport is completed and the objects removed from the container, the receiving institution has a reserve of individual components 20 which can be reintegrated into the empty spaces so that the container can return to its original arrangement and be ready for the next packaging.

[0089] The individual components 20, as well as the base foam layers 10 and lid foam layers 11, could be made of different foams according to the customer's needs or requirements, including polyurethane foams, polyethylene foams, or environmentally friendly materials such as polylactic acid or polyhydroxyalkanoates. Any other type of foam or similar materials could be considered as required or requested.

[0090] This packaging system, consisting of the crate and individual components, would therefore constantly adapt to the shape of the objects placed within it and allow for very long-term reuse. It would also be possible to integrate works of art whose primary packaging in a custom-cut foam insert is essential, by directly integrating the foam insert and its object into a space left free by removing individual components 20, just like any other object. In this way, even extremely fragile objects requiring specific pre-packaging could be transported safely. The transport of artworks in bulk, regardless of their shape or nature, would therefore be feasible without constraints and without generating waste associated with custom-made solutions.

[0091] The time required for packaging the artworks in the layers of individual components 20 would also result in considerable time savings. The standardized nature of the modular individual components would require no adjustments or special technical skills; this process would allow the necessary space for the artworks to be created in a few seconds and the complete packaging of several artworks to be achieved in a few minutes. The fact that no cutting tools are required would also enhance user safety and would not require any specific qualifications or training for packaging the artworks. There would also be no risk of accidentally marking the artworks, as no felt-tip pen markings would be necessary on the foams.

[0092] The standardized shape and dimensions of the boxes can correspond to the di The standard dimensions of the packaging crates commonly used in museums are used, and the crates are therefore adapted to the dimensions of pallets used within the European Union. In this way, their stacking or combination corresponds to the standard dimensions of existing transport crates, facilitating storage and handling without size constraints.

[0093] These boxes can exist in several formats of different lengths, heights and / or widths. In particular, a first range of boxes can be provided with a first width and a first length, this first range of boxes comprising boxes of different heights, and a second range of boxes with a second width and / or a second length, this second range of boxes comprising boxes of different heights.

[0094] The individual components 20 are adapted for use with both ranges of enclosures. For example, the width of the enclosures in the first range corresponds to a first integer number of individual components in the width, the length of the enclosures in the first range corresponds to a second integer number of individual components in the length, the width of the enclosures in the second range corresponds to a third integer number of individual components in the width, and the length of the enclosures in the second range corresponds to a fourth integer number of individual components in the length. The third integer is different from the first integer. For example, the first integer is 7, and the third integer is 11. The fourth integer is different from the second integer. For example, the second integer is 11, and the fourth integer is 15.

[0095] Thus, the second range of cases could be adapted for the transport of larger works, or those contained in foam inserts and pre-conditioned in independent sub-cases.

[0096] This packaging system would therefore allow museums and any entity or company transporting works of art to create stable and secure packaging for transported objects, while significantly reducing the consumption of packaging materials and the amount of waste generated by the transport of works of art. It also represents an economic gain for these institutions' budgets, a time saving for the packaging of objects, and a safety improvement for users.

[0097] According to one embodiment, a housing 16 includes an integrated computerized system 30. The computerized system includes a processor and memory, as well as a human-machine interface such as, for example, a touchscreen, or a control console including buttons and indicator lights. The computerized system 30 may also include a removable battery and / or a rechargeable battery via an interface of Connection. The human-machine interface can be integrated within the thickness of a wall, for example, a side wall 19. The computerized system 30 can include at least one sensor located inside the outer casing of the enclosure 16, for example, in the internal space, for example, between the inner face of the side wall and the adjacent individual component 20. Several sensors can be used, positioned in different locations and identified by their position. One or more sensors can be used to measure atmospheric conditions, including temperature, atmospheric pressure, and / or humidity. Motion sensors, such as an accelerometer or gyroscope, can also be used, or alternatively. The sensor can thus be adapted to detect vibrations within a given frequency band.

[0098] The sensor regularly performs measurements, and the measurements taken are stored in memory.

[0099] The computerized system 30 includes a connection module adapted to connect to the connection module of a remote computerized system and to transfer the data stored in its memory to it. For example, the data is retrieved directly by plugging a USB key into the enclosure. The connector is, for example, located near the human-machine interface.

[0100] The human-machine interface can be used to configure measurements. For example, a user uses the human-machine interface to determine which sensors are active during transport, the measurement frequency, the expected duration of the measurement, or other parameters.

[0101] The human-machine interface screen can also be used to display one or more measured values. The display is also configurable. For example, the value of the last measurement taken can be displayed.

[0102] The computerized system 30 may also include a positioning plotter. For example, a satellite positioning plotter may be provided. The positioning plotter 30 may also include a communication module adapted to regularly transmit information to a remote server. For example, the communication module may be used to regularly transmit positioning data and / or data measured by one or more sensors.

[0103] Thus, a system can be provided comprising a server receiving geolocation data from several containers 16. This function makes it possible to strengthen the security of the collections which are stored there.

[0104] This system includes, for example, portable computers (or "smartphones") communicating with the server, and comprising a processor running software enabling access to information relating to one or more boxes transmitted by the server.

[0105] Thus, an institution may have a set of enclosure systems, as described above, comprising one or more bodies 21 of various dimensions and one or more lids 22 of various dimensions, which can be attached to the bodies if their dimensions match. An institution may also have a plurality of individual removable deformable components 20, as described above, adapted to be placed in the enclosure systems, as described above. It is thus understood that the system may take different forms: enclosures assembled or to be assembled, with or without individual removable deformable components 20, and / or these individual removable deformable components themselves.

[0106] Figure 6 shows a box with compartments 131. This box is designed to offer a degree of standardization and durability in the packaging. This box with compartments is suitable for holding one or more of the previously described boxes 16. In one embodiment, the box with compartments 131 is suitable for simultaneously holding two small boxes 16 and one large box, as shown in Figure 7. If the boxes 16 are supplied by product range, the box with compartments 131 can also be supplied in several ranges.

[0107] A box with compartments 131 comprises several individual walls 132, typically six individual walls 132 parallel in pairs and together forming a rectangular parallelepiped. The box with compartments 131 comprises a lower wall 133 and an opposing upper wall 134. The lower wall 133 is characterized in that it has feet 130, as will be described in more detail later. The box with compartments 131 comprises side walls 135 extending between the lower wall 133 and the upper wall 134. The side walls 135 have identical dimensions in pairs. For example, there may be a pair of narrow side walls 135 facing each other and a pair of wide side walls 135 facing each other. Each individual wall 132 has an inner face 132i and an outer face 132e of rigid plastic or any other suitable polymer material.Choosing a plastic or polymer material for the walls improves the box's watertightness, even against steam.

[0108] According to one example, each wall 132 can be isothermal. For example, a thermally insulating layer 118 is added between the two faces. The insulating layer 118 is, for example, injected.

[0109] All angles and edges may be slightly rounded to reduce danger to the user. This technical feature could not be shown in the technical drawings.

[0110] Each wall comprises an extended structural panel and a set of accessories attached to the panel to perform a function. Some of these accessories will be described in more detail below. [YES] The inner faces 132i, 133i, 134i have shock absorbers 136 that project inward from the panel. Each shock absorber 136 includes, for example, a buffer strip 119 of deformable foam. The buffer strips 119 on the same wall extend, for example, parallel to each other. They extend, for example, horizontally. In the example shown, all the buffer strips of the box extend parallel to each other in the plane orthogonal to the plane of [Fig. 6]. The buffer strips 119 on the same wall extend, for example, at regular intervals in the opposite direction to their direction of extension. Each buffer strip 119 can be covered, at least on its inner face, with a thin smooth contact layer 1201. These smooth contact layers 1201, for example made of plastic, facilitate the entry and exit of the boxes 16 from the case.A smooth contact layer 1202 can also be provided on the outward-facing side of the buffer strip 119. This ensures the buffer strips are symmetrical and reduces the risk of misalignment when attaching them to the panel. A damper 136 is attached to the inner walls 132i, for example, by screwing. The screws 137 pass through a suitable hole 121 that runs through the thin, smooth contact strip 1201 and the foam strip 119. They are then screwed into the second contact strip 1202 and subsequently into the panel of the wall 132 of the enclosure. In this way, the screw 137 is concealed within the damper 136. Thus, even if the foam strip 119 is crushed by a box 16, the screw head is not likely to come into contact with the box 16, reducing the risk of damaging it.This process allows for the quick and easy fixing of buffer strips 119, as well as the replacement of those that wear out, without having to replace other elements that remain intact, thus limiting the production of potential waste.

[0112] To allow these crates to be stored without taking up too much space, the walls 132 are mounted to each other in a removable manner. The walls are therefore designed to be disassembled from one another, thus allowing an empty, disassembled crate to be stored like a stack of planks, and then reassembled as needed.

[0113] The panels are assembled and held together by a reversible, removable fastening system 122, such as, for example, a toggle system. The removable fastening system 122 allows switching from a fastening configuration to a release configuration without tools. Furthermore, it uses components permanently fixed to the panel, so that switching between the fastening and release configurations does not compromise the physical integrity of the panel and can be repeated as needed by manual manipulation. The risk of injury associated with handling tools is therefore reduced. The removable fastening system 122 for the crates and that for the boxes are, for example, analogous. The assembly and disassembly of the The crates are then quick and easy to assemble, allowing two people to store or set up the crate in just a few minutes. Every edge formed by two walls has at least one fastening system. Several fastening systems can be distributed along the same edge. A toggle system, for example, includes a hook 125 attached to one wall and a toggle attached to a second wall. When the two walls are positioned in a suitable relative position, the toggle attached to one wall can be engaged with the hook 125 on the other wall, thus securing the two walls together. In this configuration, the toggle can be released from the hook, thus separating the two walls.As shown in Figures 12 to 14, in the example presented, the upper and lower edges of the side walls 135 have toggle latches 140, and the side edges of the lower wall 133 and upper wall 134 have additional hooks. The side edges of the narrower side walls have toggle latches 140, and the side edges of the wider side walls have additional hooks. However, other arrangements are possible.

[0114] This principle of totally separable walls also allows, in the event that a wall has been damaged, for it to be replaced without having to replace the entire casing.

[0115] A location in a wall intended for a toggle latch may have a recess 141 inward from the outer face 132e of the wall of the case, with a depth equal to the thickness of the toggle latches. These recesses may be obtained by localized thinning of the insulating layer 118 at that location, so as to improve its strength.

[0116] The lower walls 133 and upper walls 134 may have a slight indentation at their edges to allow the hooks 125 to be integrated into which the toggle latches are attached.

[0117] The removable fastening systems 122 can be equipped with locks, in order to be able to lock all the locking points and ensure the safety of the boxes contained in the crates and of the objects contained in the boxes.

[0118] A rib 123 may be provided on the lower wall 133 and projects from its inner face 132i. A similar rib 123 extends oppositely on the upper wall 134, projecting from its inner face 132i. A side wall 135 abuts against these ribs when assembled to the lower wall 133 / upper wall 134. This rib 123, positioned inward relative to the peripheral edge of these two walls, lower 133 and upper 134, at a distance from the peripheral edge equal to the thickness of the side walls 135, provides support for the side wall 135. These ribs 123 thus increase the strength of the box when assembled. These ribs 123 also facilitate the assembly of the walls. guiding the positioning of the side walls 135 on the lower walls 133 and upper walls 134. Furthermore, as shown in [Fig. 15], the vertical peripheral edges of the larger side walls 135 rest on the edge 142 of the smaller side walls 135. Thus, the panel of a side wall 135 is assembled to the panels of the lower wall 133, the upper wall 134, and the two adjacent side walls without being fitted or snapped together by means of mechanical locking portions, but simply resting upon them without mechanical locking. The panels of the upper wall 134 and the lower wall 133 are each assembled to the panels of the four adjacent side walls without being fitted or snapped together by means of mechanical locking portions, but simply resting upon them without mechanical locking.To this end, the panels have guide surfaces, these guide surfaces being complementary in pairs and cooperating to guide the movement of one of the walls in the direction of assembly until it comes to rest against the other wall. This same description applies to any edge formed by two walls. The fastening is then carried out by the removable fastening systems 122.

[0119] As shown in [Fig. 8], handles 138 can be provided on two opposite side walls 135 of the crate. For example, only two side walls, or all four side walls, can include a handle 138. The handle is, for example, positioned between approximately 40 cm and 80 cm from the ground. It is then possible to move the empty crate manually using the handles.The handles 138 can also be used to facilitate handling the crate when it is moved by a lifting device such as a forklift. These handles can, for example, be made of metal with a plastic grip to improve comfort. They include a movable element 139 mounted on a metal plate 126 fixed directly to the side wall 135 of the crate, for example by screwing. The handle 138, like the latches, can be placed in a recess in the side wall. At these locations, for example in the middle of each of the side walls 135 with a handle, the insulating layer can be entirely replaced by a compact and fixed plastic layer 127 bonding the outer and inner faces of the side wall 135 of the crate. This allows the handles 138 to be screwed into this layer and creates a reinforcement point that reduces the risk of denting in the event of impacts.If two of the walls do not include handles, similar internal reinforcement blocks can be found there to increase their strength.

[0120] As seen in [Fig. 11], at the junction of each of the walls a sealing gasket 124 would be disposed, ensuring the total sealing of the box when it was closed.

[0121] According to one embodiment, borders are provided on the outer faces of the walls 128 raised edges. Thus, the edges 128 can be positioned on the side walls 135 and run around the entire body. These reinforcing edges 128 protect the walls from direct impacts. The edges 128 thus partially absorb the blows received from the outside.

[0122] Thus, each side wall 135 can include several such borders, in particular a lower border and a top border.

[0123] Such a rim 128 can also be provided on the upper wall 134 of the crate and on the lower wall 133 of the crate to absorb the pressure exerted by handling equipment such as pallet trucks when the crate is transported. These rims are, for example, molded or overmolded. These rims 128 can alternatively include independent elements fixed to the walls, such as shock-absorbing air cushions.

[0124] According to one embodiment, a glazed insert 129 for documents is provided on at least one side wall 135, for example on each of the two side walls 135 along the length of the case (those without a handle). These inserts 129 are horizontally centered on their wall and vertically positioned below the upper edge 128 of the respective wall, so that they are easily accessible and can be consulted without having to bend down.

[0125] To facilitate handling, the container can be raised by four feet 130 positioned at its four corners, providing sufficient space for the blades of handling equipment to pass under it. This elevation would also provide the container with a safety margin in case of flooding. The feet could be, for example, pads or cable-operated anti-vibration devices. These feet 130 can be attached to the lower wall 133 in a removable manner. For example, a removable fastening system is provided, allowing for quick and easy assembly and disassembly, so that they can be replaced or removed for storage of the disassembled container. The lower wall 133 includes, for example, a pattern, and the foot 130 includes a complementary pattern allowing the foot 130 to be joined to the lower wall by complementary shape. For example, a friction, bayonet, or other type of assembly could be used.The upper wall 134 also includes a foot fixing pattern, although this pattern is not used when this wall is used as a top wall. Thus, the horizontal walls are interchangeable.

[0126] According to one embodiment, the lower wall 133 and three side walls 135 are assembled together, so as to leave an access opening to the inside of the box. Then, a box is installed inside the box, for example by sliding it along the buffer strips 119. The box is adjusted in width and slightly compresses the buffer strips 119 of the two opposing side walls 135.

[0127] One or more additional boxes are stacked until the maximum number of boxes allowed in the crate is reached. Then the last side wall 135 and the top wall 134 are assembled. The boxes are fitted inside the assembled crate. The buffer strips 119 are then all slightly compressed. The crate can then be transported to its destination. Upon arrival, it can be disassembled between one and five walls, retaining at least the bottom wall 133, and the boxes removed from the crate. Then, the crate is completely disassembled and stored as shown below in a reduced volume pending further use.

[0128] As can be seen in [Fig. 9], since the walls of the case are identical and interchangeable in symmetrical pairs, the foam strips 119 buffering two walls of the same pair are offset laterally from each other, so that, in the disassembled configuration, the strips are staggered and allow one wall to be fitted against the other, as can be seen in [Fig. 10]. In this way, once the case is disassembled, the walls can be paired and fitted together, thereby reducing the volume occupied by the disassembled case.

[0129] Alternatively, the boxes could be arranged on the lower wall 133, and the case then assembled around them. Various embodiments are possible. The sides of the case can be assembled together to form the case in any order. They can also be disassembled from each other in any order. This results in improved ergonomics.

[0130] This modular container, equipped with its standardized mobile cube containers, has an indefinite lifespan, is practical and simple to use, and produces virtually no waste during operation. Since each part is separable and replaceable, changing damaged parts is quick, easy, and inexpensive, minimizing waste production. The container can then be emptied and disassembled when the containers are used individually, or reassembled and used as a compact unit by combining its containers.

[0131] A "box system" is thus defined as a set of walls, a portion of which can be used to form at least one box as described above. References

[0132] 1: hull

[0133] 2: insulating material

[0134] 3: border

[0135] 4: obviously

[0136] 5: handle

[0137] 6: sealing gasket

[0138] 7: locking system

[0139] 8: insert

[0140] 9: cube

[0141] 10: base layer

[0142] 11: lid layer

[0143] 12: rib

[0144] 13: surface coating

[0145] 14: calibration

[0146] 16: box

[0147] 17: lower wall

[0148] 18: upper wall

[0149] 19: side wall

[0150] 20: individual deformable removable component

[0151] 21: body

[0152] 22: lid

[0153] 23: outer portion

[0154] 24: inner portion

[0155] 25: document holder

[0156] 28a, b, c: work

[0157] 29: surface component

[0158] 30: computerized system

[0159] 118: insulating layer

[0160] 119: foam buffer strip

[0161] 1201: smooth contact layer

[0162] 1202: contact strip

[0163] 121: hole

[0164] 122: removable fastening system

[0165] 123: rib

[0166] 124: sealing gasket

[0167] 125: brackets

[0168] 126: metal plate

[0169] 127: plastic thickness

[0170] 128: raised border

[0171] 129: glazed insert

[0172] 130: feet

[0173] 131: box with compartments

[0174] 132: individual wall

[0175] 132i: inner face

[0176]

[0177]

[0178]

[0179]

[0180]

[0181]

[0182]

[0183]

[0184]

[0185]

[0186] 132e: outer face 133: lower wall 134: upper wall 135: side wall 136: shock absorbers 137: screw 138: handle 139: moving element 140: toggle 141: recess 142: edge

Claims

Claims

1. System for packaging objects comprising: - at least six individual removable walls (132) which can be assembled together to form a rectangular parallelepiped box, - reversible fixing systems (122) each comprising a first element secured to a first individual wall and a second element secured to a second individual wall, each reversible fixing system (122) being adapted to reversibly assume a fixing configuration in which the first and second elements are secured to each other and a release configuration in which the first and second elements are free from each other.

2. An object packaging system according to claim 1, wherein at least one individual wall, and in particular each individual wall, comprises an internal face (132i, 133i, 134i), an external face (132e, 133e, 134e) and a thermally insulating layer (118) between the two faces.

3. An object packaging system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein at least one individual wall, and in particular each individual wall, comprises an extended structural panel and at least one accessory attached to the panel.

4. An object packaging system according to claim 2 and claim 3, wherein at least one internal face (132i, 133i, 134i), and in particular each internal face (132i, 133i, 134i) carries dampers (136) which project inwards relative to the panel, and each comprising a buffer strip (119) of deformable foam, optionally having one and / or other of the following characteristics: - the buffer strips (119) of the same wall extend parallel to each other, - the buffer strips (119) extend horizontally, - the buffer strips (119) of the same wall extend at regular intervals in the other direction than their direction of extension, - each buffer strip (119) is covered at least on its inward-facing face with a thin contact layer smooth (1201), - the buffer strips (119) are symmetrical, - a buffer strip (119) is fixed to the internal wall (132i, 133i, 134i) by screwing through a hole (121) passing through it and passing through a thin smooth contact layer (1201) covering at least the face of the buffer strip (119) facing inwards, the screw (137) being retracted into the damper (136).

5. An object packaging system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the reversible fastening system (122) is a toggle system.

6. An object packaging system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first element is permanently fixed to the first individual wall and the second element is permanently fixed to the second individual wall.

7. System for packaging objects according to one of claims 1 to 6, in which each edge formed by two walls has at least one fixing system, in particular several fixing systems distributed along the edge.

8. An object packaging system according to one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the lower wall (133) has a rib (123) projecting from its internal face (132i), wherein the upper wall (134) has a rib (123) projecting from its internal face (132i), and wherein a side wall (135), and in particular each side wall (135) is adapted to abut on these ribs (123) when it is assembled to the lower (133) and upper (134) walls.

9. An object packaging system according to one of claims 1 to 8, wherein at least two opposing side walls (135) comprise handles (138).

10. An object packaging system according to one of claims 1 to 9, comprising feet (130) removably attached to the lower wall (133).

11. An object packaging system according to one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the upper wall (134) comprises a foot attachment pattern.

12. An object packaging system according to one of claims 1 to 11, in which the walls are identical and interchangeable in symmetrical pairs.

13. An object packaging system according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein each lower (133) or upper (134) wall comprises a guide surface adapted to guide the positioning of a side wall until it stops.

14. An object packaging system according to one of claims 1 to 13, further comprising at least one box arranged in the crate.

15. Use of a packaging system according to one of claims 1 to 14, for the transport of works of art.

16. Method for preparing a packaging of objects comprising: - providing at least six removable individual walls (132), - assembling the six removable individual walls to each other with reversible fixing systems (122) each comprising a first element secured to a first individual wall and a second element secured to a second individual wall, each reversible fixing system being adapted to reversibly assume a fixing configuration in which the first and second elements are secured to each other and a release configuration in which the first and second elements are free from each other, to form a rectangular parallelepiped box.

17. Method for preparing a packaging of objects according to claim 16 in which the six individual walls are assembled by guiding until they stop.

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