Wiper blade packaging

Abstract

The invention relates to a packaging (1) forming at least one sleeve for a windscreen wiper blade (3), the packaging (1) comprising a bottom wall (11) forming a support for depositing the at least one windscreen wiper blade (3), side walls (12) extending on either side of the bottom wall (11), at least one upper wall (13) extending above the bottom wall (11) when the packaging (1) is closed, the bottom wall (11), the side walls (12) and the upper wall (13) all being integral with each other and delimited between them by grooves (113) extending along the own elongation axis (O1).According to the invention, the packaging (1) comprises at least two support surfaces (111) each formed by folds (112) formed on the bottom wall (11) and which extend along the specific elongation axis (O1), so that a free end of each support surface (111) is located at a distance from the bottom wall (11) in order to allow the support of the windscreen wiper blade (3) housed in the packaging (1). Figure to be published with the abstract: Fig. 4.

Description

Title of the invention: Packaging for a windshield wiper blade

[0001] The technical context of the present invention is that of the packaging of windshield wiper blades. More particularly, the invention relates to a packaging for a windshield wiper blade, in particular a sleeve-type packaging, as well as to an assembly comprising a windshield wiper blade within such a packaging.

[0002] Wiping systems for motor vehicles are designed to remove, by sweeping, liquids and dirt present on a glass surface, such as for example a windshield for example, and likely to disturb a driver of such motor vehicles in his detection of a wheel scene or his environment.

[0003] Such known wiping systems generally comprise a drive arm which performs an angular back-and-forth movement, at the end of which is connected a windscreen wiper blade equipped with a scraper blade formed from an elastic material, or even rubber. In a known manner, the windscreen wiper blade comprises a connector for coupling said windscreen wiper blade to the drive arm. By rubbing against the glass surface, the scraper blades sweep away water and dirt, and evacuate them outside the driver's field of vision.

[0004] The friction of the scraper blade of the windshield wiper blades on the glass surface of the motor vehicle, the presence of dust or gravel on the glass surface during operation of the windshield wiper blade, or even the degradation of the wiping blade when not in use and its exposure to environmental factors such as sunlight and ozone, are factors which affect the quality of known windshield wiper blades and lead to wear of all or part of said windshield wiper blades.

[0005] Thus, such wiper blades form wear parts that need to be replaced more or less frequently, depending on their use. Since the wiper blades are located outside the vehicle and easily accessible, a user of the vehicle can replace them without any particular difficulty.

[0006] In a known manner, the windshield wiper blades being located outside the vehicle and easily accessible, a user of the vehicle can replace them without any particular difficulty.

[0007] Windshield wiper blades are very commonly available for retail sale, not only at automotive-related outlets such as auto parts stores and gas stations, but also at general retail outlets such as discount stores and department stores.

[0008] For this purpose, we know of the massive use of cardboard or plastic packaging forming a sheath in which a pair of windshield wiper blades is housed. Such Known packaging has many drawbacks. First, the use of plastic or cardboard to manufacture these disposable packaging products is increasingly incompatible, or even no longer compatible, with the environmental standards of wiper blade manufacturers or retailers. Furthermore, the production of such cardboard or plastic packaging leads to a cost that should be minimized.

[0009] However, known cardboard packaging is not optimal either, because it is more fragile. In particular, damage to cardboard packaging is regularly observed when inserting or handling the wiper blade in said packaging. Indeed, since the wiper blade forms a rather rigid part opposite the cardboard, in particular due to its connector, its vertebrae or its cover, longitudinal edges of said wiper blade can come into contact with the walls of the cardboard packaging and cut them.

[0010] Of course, such a situation is not desired.

[0011] The object of the present invention is to provide a novel packaging for a windshield wiper blade in order to at least largely address the above problems and to further lead to other advantages.

[0012] Another object of the invention is to reduce damage to such packaging when inserting or extracting the wiper blade.

[0013] Another object of the invention is to improve the quality of such packaging.

[0014] According to a first aspect of the invention, at least one of the aforementioned objectives is achieved. with a windscreen wiper blade packaging, the packaging extending along a specific elongation axis and forming a sleeve inside which at least one windscreen wiper blade is intended to be housed, the packaging comprising:

[0015] - a bottom wall forming a support for depositing at least one wiper blade ice ;

[0016] - side walls extending on either side of the bottom wall, relative to a transverse axis perpendicular to the proper elongation axis,

[0017] - at least one upper wall intended to extend above the bottom wall when the package is closed, the at least one top wall extending from one of the side walls, relative to the transverse axis, such that the side wall is located in an intermediate position between the bottom wall and the top wall;

[0018] - the bottom wall, the side walls and the top wall all being integral from each other and delimited between them by a groove extending along the proper elongation axis.

[0019] According to the invention, the packaging comprises at least two support surfaces each formed by a fold of the bottom wall which extends along the specific elongation axis, so that a free end of the fold of each support surface is intended to support the windscreen wiper blade housed in the packaging.

[0020] In the context of the present invention, the proper elongation axis is taken along a direction of elongation of the packaging, also corresponding to the direction of elongation of the wiper blade(s) intended to be inserted into the packaging, according to their largest dimension. For example, the proper elongation axis is parallel to a direction of elongation of the scraper blade of the wiper blades. The proper elongation axis is also parallel to the largest dimension of the packaging. From this proper elongation axis, a transverse direction is defined which extends perpendicular to the proper elongation axis, so as to delimit a front edge and a rear edge of the wiper blade. With respect to the packaging, the transverse axis corresponds to a width of said packaging. Finally, we also define a vertical axis taken simultaneously perpendicular to the proper elongation axis and the transverse axis.The vertical axis corresponds to a direction which extends from a wiping lip of the scraper blade to at least one vertebra used to hold it. With respect to the packaging, the vertical axis corresponds to a height of said packaging.

[0021] In the context of the present invention, the packaging forms a housing - the sleeve - for the windshield wiper blade with which it is intended to collaborate. In particular, longitudinal and transverse dimensions of the packaging are such that they allow the insertion of the windshield wiper blade into said packaging. This insertion is preferably carried out with minimal play, or even without play, so as to prevent the windshield wiper blade from moving too much in the packaging during its transport.

[0022] In the context of the present invention, the bottom wall, the side walls and the at least one top wall form peripheral walls of the packaging. The peripheral walls delimit the packaging and its housing. The peripheral walls preferably extend in a rectilinear manner, relative to the longitudinal axis. In other words, the peripheral walls form flat, or possibly curved, surfaces. In a transverse plane perpendicular to the longitudinal axis, the peripheral walls delimit, for example, a polygonal or elliptical contour. Preferably, the peripheral walls delimit a hexagonal or rectangular, or even square, contour.

[0023] In the context of the present invention, all the peripheral walls are integral with each other and all formed from the same sheet of material shaped in order to form the packaging according to the invention. For this purpose, the peripheral walls are delimited with respect to each other by a groove arranged in the packaging. The groove thus forms a local reduction of material allowing the deformation of the packaging at the level of said groove. By its elongation, the groove thus defines a direction and a location of a fold, serving to mark the shape of the packaging and delimiting one peripheral wall from another. Thus, the packaging according to the invention comprises two first grooves marking the limit between the bottom wall and each side wall; and each side wall is separated from the associated top wall by a third groove. These grooves all extend along the proper elongation axis. Advantageously, although not limitingly, the grooves are parallel to each other. By way of non-limiting example, the grooves are formed by stamping.

[0024] In the context of the present invention, each support surface is formed from and by the bottom wall of the packaging according to the invention. The support surfaces thus form protrusions which extend projecting from the bottom wall, so as to form a support surface for the wiper blade(s) housed in the packaging. Each support surface is formed by one or more folds. The fold(s) are formed by a deformation of the bottom wall of the packaging.

[0025] In the context of the present invention, the free end of the fold is the edge intended to be pressed against the windshield wiper blade intended to be housed in the packaging.

[0026] Thus, the packaging according to the first aspect of the invention makes it possible to improve known packaging by strengthening the interactions between said packaging and the windscreen wiper blade that it houses. In particular, it provides better retention of the windscreen wiper blade in the packaging.

[0027] The packaging in accordance with the first aspect of the invention advantageously comprises at least one of the improvements below, the technical characteristics forming these improvements being able to be taken alone or in combination:

[0028] - the packaging is made of cardboard;

[0029] - the side walls comprise a left side wall and a right side wall, the left and right side walls extending parallel to each other. Furthermore, the left side wall is symmetrical with the right side wall, relative to a median longitudinal plane;

[0030] - the at least two support surfaces are distant from each other, relatively to the transverse axis. This advantageous configuration makes it possible to provide better stability for the wiper blade intended to be placed on said support surfaces;

[0031] - the at least two support surfaces extend parallel to each other. In particular, the at least two support surfaces extend, relative to the specific elongation axis of the packaging, from one axial end to the other;

[0032] - according to a first variant embodiment, the fold forming each support surface has a triangular cross-section. This advantageous configuration is easy to obtain, by a simple folding of the lower wall of the packaging according to the invention. In particular, each fold is determined by three grooves all extending along the proper elongation axis, a central groove being located exactly between two lateral grooves;

[0033] - according to a second variant embodiment, the fold forming each support surface has an accordion structure. This advantageous configuration provides greater stability for the wiper blade intended to be placed thereon, and also provides greater rigidity. In particular, each fold is determined by at least five grooves all extending along the proper elongation axis, and regularly spaced from each other, relative to the transverse axis;

[0034] - the packaging comprises at least one axial end flap, so that each end flap closes the sleeve at each axial end of the packaging. In the context of the present invention, the axial end is considered along the specific elongation axis of the packaging. This advantageous configuration thus makes it possible to close the packaging and prevent the wiper blade from being able to come out of the packaging involuntarily;

[0035] - relative to the proper elongation axis, each at least one end flap extends from the axial end of the bottom wall or from the top wall or from one of the side walls. In particular, the at least one flap is delimited from one of the peripheral walls by a groove extending along the transverse axis;

[0036] - the packaging comprises at least one tab which projects from the wall upper, the at least one tab being delimited by a groove extending along the proper elongation axis from the at least one upper wall. The tab projects from the upper wall, so as to form a non-zero angle with the upper wall, when the packaging is formed. This advantageous configuration makes it easier to grip the packaging according to the invention, or even to facilitate its suspension on a display rail;

[0037] - the packaging comprises at least one pair of holding tabs located on either side and other of the bottom wall, each retaining tab extending through a window provided in at least one of the side walls and / or the at least one top wall, the window being delimited by slots formed on said at least one of the side walls and / or said at least one top wall. The retaining tabs thus form support walls against the wiper blade housed in the packaging, so as to hold it inside. The retaining tabs extend from the side walls towards the inside of the housing. The retaining tabs are formed by cutting and folding a portion of the peripheral walls of the packaging, so as to extend towards the inside of the housing. The retaining tabs are configured to be able to block the wiper blade in the packaging, relative to the transverse axis.Additionally or alternatively, the retaining tabs are configured to be able to block the wiper blade in the packaging, relative to the proper elongation axis; .

[0038] - the holding legs of the same pair are located opposite each other. Advantageously, the holding tabs of the same pair are symmetrical to each other. According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the packaging according to the first aspect of the invention comprises two pairs of holding tabs distributed along the specific elongation axis of the packaging.

[0039] According to a second aspect of the invention, there is provided an assembly comprising a windscreen wiper blade housed in a packaging as previously described, the windscreen wiper blade bearing against the at least two bearing surfaces of the packaging.

[0040] The packaging in accordance with the second aspect of the invention advantageously comprises at least one of the improvements below, the technical characteristics forming these improvements being able to be taken alone or in combination:

[0041] - according to a first variant embodiment, the windshield wiper blade comprises a connector configured to allow mechanical coupling with a drive arm, the support surfaces of the packaging bearing against the connector of the wiper blade;

[0042] - according to a second variant embodiment, alternative or complementary to the first embodiment variant, the windscreen wiper blade comprises a scraping blade associated with two vertebrae which extend along the specific elongation axis, the support surfaces of the packaging bearing against the vertebrae of the windscreen wiper blade;

[0043] - the support surfaces are located on either side of the scraper blade of the broom wiper blade. This advantageous configuration allows the wiper blade to be held more stably in the packaging;

[0044] - the retaining tabs are in lateral support against the wiper blade. Relatively to the proper elongation axis, the holding tabs are located on either side of the connector. This advantageous configuration also makes it possible to hold the connector between the lateral holding tabs, with or without play, so as to prevent it from coming out of the packaging, for example by sliding, in an involuntary and uncontrolled manner. Optionally, relative to the proper elongation axis, the connector of the wiper blade is put in abutment against the holding tabs, this advantageous configuration makes it possible to keep the wiper blade engaged in the packaging and to prevent it from moving during handling of the packaging.

[0045] Various embodiments of the invention are provided, integrating according to all of their possible combinations the different optional characteristics set out here.

[0046] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the description which follows on the one hand, and from several exemplary embodiments given as examples. indicative and not limiting with reference to the schematic drawings annexed on the other hand, on which:

[0047] [Fig. 1] illustrates a three-dimensional view of a first exemplary embodiment of a package in accordance with the first aspect of the invention;

[0048] [Fig.2] illustrates a longitudinal sectional view of the packaging illustrated in [Fig.l];

[0049] [Fig.3] illustrates a cross-sectional view of the package illustrated in [Fig.l];

[0050] [Fig.4] illustrates a detail and perspective view of the packaging illustrated in the [Fig.l];

[0051] [Fig.5] illustrates a three-dimensional view of a second exemplary embodiment of a packaging in accordance with the first aspect of the invention;

[0052] [Fig.6] illustrates a longitudinal sectional view of the packaging illustrated in [Fig.5];

[0053] [Fig.7] illustrates a cross-sectional view of the package illustrated in [Fig.5];

[0054] [Fig.8] illustrates a detail and perspective view of the packaging illustrated in the [Fig.5] ;

[0055] [Fig.9] illustrates a three-dimensional view of a third exemplary embodiment of a packaging according to the first aspect of the invention and illustrated in an unfolded configuration;

[0056] [Fig. 10] illustrates a detail and perspective view of the packaging illustrated in [Fig.9];

[0057] [Fig. 11] illustrates a sectional view of a fourth exemplary embodiment of a package according to the first aspect of the invention;

[0058] [Fig. 12] illustrates a sectional view of a fifth exemplary embodiment of packaging in accordance with the first aspect of the invention.

[0059] Of course, the features, variants and different embodiments of the invention may be combined with each other, in various combinations, provided that they are not incompatible or mutually exclusive. In particular, variants of the invention may be imagined comprising only a selection of features described below in isolation from the other features described, if this selection of features is sufficient to confer a technical advantage or to differentiate the invention from the prior art.

[0060] In particular, all the variants and all the embodiments described can be combined with each other if nothing prevents this combination from a technical point of view.

[0061] In the figures, the elements common to several figures retain the same reference.

[0062] In the FIGURES described below, a specific elongation axis 01 is defined, taken along a direction of elongation of the packaging 1, also corresponding to the direction of elongation of the windscreen wiper blade(s) 3 intended to be inserted into the packaging. 1, according to their largest dimension. For example, the proper elongation axis 01 is parallel to a direction of elongation of the scraper blade 33 of the windshield wiper blades 3. The proper elongation axis 01 is also parallel to the largest dimension of the packaging 1. The proper elongation axis 01 also corresponds to a longitudinal axis X.

[0063] From this proper elongation axis 01, a transverse axis Y is also defined which extends perpendicular to the proper elongation axis 01, so as to delimit a front edge and a rear edge of the windshield wiper blade 3. With respect to the packaging 1, the transverse axis Y corresponds to a width of said packaging 1.

[0064] Finally, a vertical axis Z is also defined, taken simultaneously perpendicular to the proper elongation axis 01 and the transverse axis Y. The vertical axis Z corresponds to a direction which extends from a wiping lip of the scraping blade 33 to the at least one vertebra used to hold it. With respect to the packaging, the vertical axis Z corresponds to a height of said packaging 1.

[0065] The FIGURES described below illustrate the invention according to several exemplary embodiments and by presenting the invention from different angles and in different configurations. In particular, FIGURES 1 to 8 illustrate such an assembly 2 and such packages 1 in a closed configuration, i.e. a configuration of use and in which a windshield wiper blade 3 is housed in such a package 1, for its transport and / or its packaging. On the other hand, FIGURES 9 and 10 illustrate such an assembly 2 in which the package 1 is unfolded, i.e. not yet formed, i.e. not yet folded around the windshield wiper blade 3. This configuration makes it possible to illustrate the monolithic design of the package 1 and the obtaining by folding of the various clever technical characteristics of said package 1 which is the subject of the present invention.

[0066] With reference to FIGURES 1 to 10, the invention relates to an assembly 2 comprising a windshield wiper blade 3 housed in a packaging 1 formed by folding a substrate formed, for example, by a sheet of cardboard or an environmentally friendly material, such as for example comprising algae. In a particularly clever manner, the packaging 1 is formed from a single substrate forming a cut and shaped monolith.

[0067] The shaping of the packaging 1 is obtained by folding in particular directions in order to form a sleeve 18 allowing the insertion and housing of at least one windshield wiper blade 3. Optionally, the packaging 1 according to the invention allows the windshield wiper blade 3 to be held in the sleeve 18 thus formed, along the transverse axis Y and / or along the longitudinal axis X, as will be described more precisely below. The folding of the packaging 1 is obtained by marking the substrate, so as to precisely locate the folds made. In the context of the present invention, the marking can be carried out by any means, and in particular by grooving, by stamping, by embossing...

[0068] The packaging 1 according to the invention is described below through several exemplary embodiments illustrated in FIGURES 1 to 4 on the one hand, 5 to 8 on the other hand, and 9 and 10 finally. According to characteristics common to all these exemplary embodiments, the packaging 1 according to the invention comprises:

[0069] - a bottom wall 11 forming a support for depositing at least one brush windshield wiper 3;

[0070] - side walls 12 extending on either side of the bottom wall 11, relative to a transverse axis Y perpendicular to the proper elongation axis 01,

[0071] - at least one upper wall 13 intended to extend above the bottom wall 11 when the packaging 1 is closed, the at least one upper wall 13 extending from one of the side walls 12, relative to the transverse axis Y, so that the side wall 12 is located in an intermediate position between the bottom wall 11 and the upper wall 13;

[0072] - the bottom wall 11, the side walls 12 and the top wall 13 all being integral with each other and delimited between them by a groove 113 extending along the proper elongation axis 01.

[0073] - at least two support surfaces 111 each formed by a fold 112 of the wall of bottom 11 which extends along the proper elongation axis 01, so that a free end of the fold 112 of each support surface 111 is intended to support the windscreen wiper blade 3 housed in the packaging 1.

[0074] As visible in the various embodiments, the packaging 1 according to the invention has a parallelepiped shape, and in particular has a rectangular cross-section, taken in a plane formed by the transverse axis Y and the vertical axis Z. However, the invention is not limiting of this form of packaging 1, and the invention addresses various forms of cross-sections for the packaging 1, such as for example hexagonal, curved or elliptical for example. In all cases, the side walls 12, the bottom wall 11, the side walls 12 and the upper wall(s) 13 are all integral with each other and marked by grooves 113 of longitudinal elongation.

[0075] In a particularly clever manner, the invention provides that the bottom wall 11 is shaped in order to provide a support for the windscreen wiper blade 3 housed in the packaging 1. To this end, the bottom wall 11 provides at least two support surfaces 111 which extend projecting from the bottom wall 11, towards the inside of the sleeve 18. These surfaces thus make it possible to support the windscreen wiper blade 3 housed in the sleeve 18, said windscreen wiper blade 3 bearing against the at least two support surfaces 111 of the packaging 1.

[0076] As for all the elements of the packaging 1 according to the invention, each support surface 111 is formed by a folding of the bottom wall 11.

[0077] In the embodiments illustrated in the various FIGURES, the support surfaces 111 extend along the proper elongation axis O1 and between the two longitudinal ends of the packaging 1, without interruption. Alternatively, according to an alternative embodiment of the invention not shown, the support surfaces 111 may extend along only a portion of the axial elongation of the bottom wall 11, for example only at a central region of the bottom wall 11 or only at a proximal region of an axial end of the packaging 1. According to another alternative of the invention not shown, the support surfaces 111 extend along the longitudinal axis X along several sections distant from each other relative to the longitudinal axis X, each section being separated from the next by a portion of the bottom wall 11 free of support surface 111.In this case, relative to the longitudinal axis X, each section is delimited by a cut in the bottom wall 11 along the transverse axis Y.

[0078] The folding forming each support surface 111 is obtained by the collaboration of several folds 112 arranged next to each other, and allowing the folding of the bottom wall 11 in the direction of the fold 112, here along the longitudinal axis X. Each support surface 111 is formed of at least two longitudinal folds 112, parallel to each other and elongated along the longitudinal axis X. A distance between two adjacent folds 112 of the same support surface 111 is much less than the width of the bottom wall 11, taken relative to the transverse axis Y. Generally speaking, the distance between two adjacent folds 112 of the same support surface 111, measured along the transverse axis Y, depends on the desired height for the support surface 111.By way of non-limiting example, the distance between two adjacent folds 112 of the same support surface 111, measured along the transverse axis Y, is less than 10 mm, typically between 3 mm and 8 mm, preferably equal to 5 mm.

[0079] Depending on the desired effects, the invention provides different shapes for the support surfaces 111.

[0080] In the embodiment shown in FIGURES 9 and 10, the bottom wall 11 comprises two support surfaces 111 which extend along the specific elongation axis 01 of the packaging 1, on either side of the bottom wall 11, relative to the transverse axis Y. Each support surface 111 is formed by exactly three longitudinal folds 112 regularly spaced apart from each other, relative to the transverse axis Y. FIGURES 9 and 10 show the packaging 1 in its unfolded configuration, the folds 112 then marking the support surfaces 111 in a triangular shape.

[0081] In the exemplary embodiments visible in FIGURES 1 to 8, the bottom wall 11 of the illustrated packages 1 comprises two support surfaces 111 which extend along the specific elongation axis 01 of the package 1, on either side of the bottom wall 11, relative to the transverse axis Y. Each support surface 111 is formed by exactly five longitudinal folds 112 regularly spaced from one another, relative to the transverse axis Y. In these exemplary embodiments, the folds 112 then mark the support surfaces 111 according to an accordion structure. In such an accordion structure, the support surfaces 111 are wider along the transverse axis Y and allow more stable support of the wiper blade 3. In addition, such support surfaces 111 allow greater forces to be supported and are more robust than those illustrated in FIGURES 9 and 10.

[0082] Of course, to form such a triangular or accordion-shaped structure, the folds 112 of the bottom wall 11 are alternately oriented towards the inside of the sleeve 18 or towards the outside. For this purpose, in order to facilitate the shaping of the support surfaces 111, the bottom wall 11 is for example alternately grooved on its inner face and on its outer face, so as to form respectively inner folds 112 and outer folds 112 to shape said support surfaces 111.

[0083] The support surfaces 111 make it possible to support the windscreen wiper blade 3 housed in the packaging 1 along a support surface defined by a free edge of said support surfaces 111. The free edge is the edge of the support surface 111 which is located at a distance from the bottom wall 11. Depending on the type of windscreen wiper blade 3 housed in the packaging 1 according to the invention, the support surfaces 111 can be placed in abutment against:

[0084] - end caps 31 of the wiper blade 3, and / or

[0085] - reinforcement vertebrae of the wiper blade 3, and / or

[0086] - a connector 32 of the wiper blade 3.

[0087] In each of the configurations, in order to protect a scraper blade 33 of the windscreen wiper blade 3, the invention provides that the support surfaces 111 are located on either side of the scraper blade 33. As can be seen in particular in FIGURES 3, 4, 7 and 8, the windscreen wiper blade 3 is installed in the packaging 1 so that the scraper blade 33 is oriented opposite the bottom wall 11 and at a median portion of said bottom wall 11, relative to the transverse axis Y. In other words, relative to the transverse axis Y, the support surfaces 111 are each located near a lateral edge of the bottom wall 11, i.e. near each lateral wall 12 of the packaging 1, so as to provide a free central space in the packaging 1.Thus, a middle part of the bottom wall 11 advantageously remains flat and free from support surfaces 111, while the support surfaces 111 are respectively arranged on either side of the middle part.

[0088] Of course, a height of the support surfaces 111, taken relative to the vertical axis Z and between the bottom wall 11 and the free edge of the support surfaces 111, is preferably greater than a height of the scraper blade 33 of the windscreen wiper blade 3 intended to be housed in the sleeve 18 of the packaging 1.

[0089] The support surfaces 111 of a package 1 are preferably identical and symmetrical with respect to a median longitudinal plane of the package 1.

[0090] In order to close the packaging 1, the exemplary embodiments illustrated in the FIGURES show two configurations provided by the invention, given as non-limiting examples.

[0091] In the exemplary embodiment of the packaging 1 according to the invention and illustrated in FIGURES 5 to 8, the packaging 1 comprises two upper walls 13, each formed from one of the side walls 12 - and delimited by a longitudinal groove 113 from said side wall 12. When the packaging 1 is closed, the two upper walls 13 are located opposite the bottom wall 11 - beyond the windscreen wiper blade 3 housed in the sleeve 18 - and meet at a median longitudinal plane of the packaging 1. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGURES 5 to 8, the upper walls 13 are placed face to face close to the median longitudinal plane, or are even abutted against each other at their free edge. Optionally, in a variant not shown, the two upper walls can partially overlap in order to close the packaging 1 at the median longitudinal plane.

[0092] In order to keep the packaging 1 closed, the assembly 2 further comprises at least one tightening strap 19 which is passed around the packaging 1. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in FIGURES 5 to 8, the assembly 2 comprises three tightening straps 19 closing the packaging 1. Two first tightening straps 19 are located at the axial ends of the packaging 1, close to the end caps 31 of the windscreen wiper blade 3 housed in the sleeve 18, and a third tightening strap 19 is located at a central portion of the packaging 1, relative to the longitudinal axis X.

[0093] In the context of the present invention, the tightening strap 19 is configured to keep the package 1 closed, and prevent it from opening in an uncontrolled manner. The tightening strap 19 thus forms a ring passing around the package 1, i.e. around the bottom wall 11, the side walls 12 and the upper walls 13, thus preventing said walls from unintentionally re-unfolding when the package 1 is transported or handled. The tightening strap 19 forms a closed contour around the package 1, in a direction transverse to the proper elongation axis 01. Thus, in a clever manner, the tightening strap 19 exerts a compressive force on the package 1. The tightening strap 19 is advantageously formed of any biodegradable material, preferably cardboard or seaweed fibers.

[0094] In the exemplary embodiment of the packaging 1 according to the invention and illustrated in FIGURES 1 to 4, the packaging 1 comprises two upper walls 13, each formed from one of the side walls 12 - and delimited by a longitudinal groove 113 from said side wall 12, and a tongue 15 which projects from each upper wall 13. The tongue 15 is delimited by a longitudinal groove 113 from the upper wall 13 from which it is formed. When the packaging 1 is closed, the two upper walls 13 are located opposite the bottom wall 11 - beyond the windscreen wiper blade 3 housed in the sleeve 18 - and meet at a median longitudinal plane of the packaging 1. As a result, the tabs 15 emanating from each upper wall 13 are placed in abutment against each other, at the median longitudinal plane.

[0095] In order to keep the packaging 1 closed, the assembly 2 further comprises at least one tightening strap 19 which is passed around the packaging 1, or the upper walls 13 and / or the tabs 15 comprise fixing tabs collaborating with each other by engagement of complementary shape in order to keep them linked against each other.

[0096] In order to close the sleeve 18 and the packaging 1, relative to the longitudinal axis X, the packaging 1 optionally comprises at least one axial end flap 14. Relative to the specific elongation axis 01, each end flap 14 extends from the axial end of the bottom wall 11 or from one of the upper walls 13 or from one of the side walls 12. In particular, the at least one flap is delimited from one of the peripheral walls by a groove 113 extending along the transverse axis Y. When the packaging 1 is shaped, each end flap 14 is put into position by folding. Optionally, in order to hold each end flap 14 in position, the end flaps 14 comprise fixing tabs collaborating with the side walls 12 and / or the upper walls 13 by complementary shaped engagement.

[0097] Finally, in order to hold the wiper blade 3 housed in the sleeve 18 in position, the packaging 1 optionally comprises at least one pair of holding tabs 16. The holding tabs 16 are located on either side of the bottom wall 11 when the packaging 1 is formed, as can be seen more particularly in FIGURES 4 and 8. Each holding tab 16 extends through a window 17 provided in the side walls 12 and / or the at least one upper wall 13. The window 17 is delimited by slots formed on the side walls 12 and / or the upper walls 13 from which they are formed.

[0098] The holding tabs 16 thus form support walls against the windscreen wiper blade 3 housed in the packaging 1, so as to hold it inside, at least following the transverse axis Y. More particularly, the holding tabs 16 are configured to be able to block the wiper blades 3 in the packaging 1, relative to the transverse axis Y.

[0099] When the package 1 is formed, the holding tabs 16 extend from the side walls 12 towards the inside of the sleeve 18. The holding tabs 16 are formed by cutting and folding a portion of the peripheral walls of the package 1, along grooves 113 arranged on said peripheral walls, and between two slots. This advantageous configuration thus allows the holding tab 16 to extend towards the inside of the sleeve 18.

[0100] In order to effectively block the wiper blade 3 in the sleeve 18, relative to the transverse axis Y, the holding tabs 16, once formed and deployed in the sleeve 18 of the packaging 1, are advantageously placed in abutment against the wiper blade 3. More particularly, for a given pair of holding tabs 16, a first holding tab 16 is placed in abutment against a first longitudinal edge of the wiper blade 3, and a second holding tab 16 is placed in abutment against a second longitudinal edge of the wiper blade 3, opposite the first longitudinal edge. This advantageous configuration makes it possible to prevent any lateral movement of the wiper blade 3 in the packaging 1.

[0101] According to different variants of the invention, the support of the holding tabs 16 against the windshield wiper blade 3 can be achieved at different contact points:

[0102] - at connector 32; and / or

[0103] - at the level of a cover of the wiper blade 3; and / or

[0104] - at the level of a deflector of the wiper blade 3; and / or

[0105] - possibly, at the end caps 31 of the wiper blade 3.

[0106] Of course, taking into account the axial elongation of the wiper blade 3 and the packaging 1, it is advantageous to have two pairs of holding tabs 16, each holding pair being located on either side of the connector 32 of the wiper blade 3, relative to the longitudinal axis X. This advantageous configuration makes it possible to better keep the wiper blade 3 stationary in the packaging 1. A first pair of holding tabs 16 is located on a first side of the connector 32, relative to the longitudinal axis X, while a second pair of holding tabs 16 is located on a second side of the connector 32, relative to the longitudinal axis X, opposite the first side.

[0107] In the context of the invention, it is preferable that the holding tabs 16 are located close to the connector 32. Furthermore, the holding tabs 16 are advantageously provided symmetrically with respect to a median transverse plane of the packaging 1, so as to be distributed symmetrically or substantially symmetrical with respect to the wiper blade 3 and / or its connector 32 once said wiper blade 3 is inserted into the sleeve 18.

[0108] Additionally or alternatively, the holding tabs 16 are configured to be able to block the wiper blade 3 in the packaging 1, relative to the specific elongation axis 01. This advantageous configuration makes it possible to prevent the wiper blade 3 from sliding in the packaging 1, relative to the longitudinal axis X of the sleeve 18.

[0109] To do this, it is advantageous to arrange the holding tabs 16 near the connector 32 of the windscreen wiper blade 3 intended to be housed in the packaging 1. Indeed, due, on the one hand, to the greater lateral dimensions of the connector 32 relative to the scraper blade 33 and / or the deflector of the windscreen wiper blade 3, and, on the other hand, to the penetration towards the inside of the packaging 1 of the holding tabs 16, these also form longitudinal stops. For this purpose, a center distance between two pairs of holding tabs 16, measured along the longitudinal axis X, is advantageously greater than or equal to a length of the connector 32 of the windshield wiper blade 3, taken along the longitudinal axis X. More generally, the center distance between the two pairs of holding tabs 16 of the packaging 1 is advantageously less than 1.1 times the length of the connector 32 of the windshield wiper blade 3.By way of non-limiting example, the center distance between two holding tabs 16 is for example between 5 cm and 8 cm.

[0110] Obtaining this longitudinal stop of the wiper blade 3 against the holding tab 16 is obtained by pressing said wiper blade 3, and more particularly an end edge of its connector 32, against a lateral edge of the corresponding holding tab 16.

[0111] With reference to FIGURES 11 and 12, the invention also provides a more complex packaging 1 for housing several windshield wiper blades 3. As can be seen in FIGURES 11 and 12, the packaging 1 then comprises several sleeves 18 delimited by peripheral walls and a common peripheral wall forming an interlayer between the two adjacent sleeves 18. In the exemplary embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 11], the common peripheral wall forming the interlayer is a side wall 12. On the other hand, in the exemplary embodiment illustrated in [Fig. 12], the common peripheral wall forming the interlayer is an upper wall 13.

[0112] In the embodiments illustrated in FIGURES 11 and 12, the packaging 1 comprises two adjacent sleeves 18, each lower wall comprising the support surfaces 111s as described previously, the packaging 1 is cleverly formed by an arrangement of folds 112 making it possible to form two sleeves 18 adjacent and parallel to each other.

[0113] In these embodiments, the wiper blades 3 extend parallel to each other, for example in a head-to-tail configuration, as for example according to [Fig. 12], or alternating, as for example according to [Fig. 11]. Of course, the invention is not limited to these configurations alone and it provides any organization of the wiper blades 3 in the adjacent sleeves 18.

[0114] In order to keep the packaging 1 closed, and in particular to keep the two sleeves 18 closed and against each other, the assembly 2 further comprises at least one tightening strap 19 which is passed around the packaging 1.

[0115] In summary, the invention relates to a packaging 1 forming at least one sleeve 18 for a windscreen wiper blade 3, the packaging 1 comprising a bottom wall 11 forming a support for depositing the at least one windscreen wiper blade 3, side walls 12 extending on either side of the bottom wall 11, at least one upper wall 13 extending above the bottom wall 11 when the packaging 1 is closed, the bottom wall 11, the side walls 12 and the upper wall 13 all being integral with each other and delimited between them by grooves 113 extending along the specific elongation axis 01.According to the invention, the packaging 1 comprises at least two support surfaces 111 each formed by folds 112 formed on the bottom wall 11 and which extend along the specific elongation axis 01, so that a free end of each support surface 111 is located at a distance from the bottom wall 11 in order to allow the support of the windscreen wiper blade 3 housed in the packaging 1.

[0116] Of course, the invention is not limited to the examples which have just been described and numerous adjustments can be made to these examples without departing from the scope of the invention. In particular, the different characteristics, forms, variants and embodiments of the invention can be associated with each other in various combinations insofar as they are not incompatible or mutually exclusive. In particular, all the variants and embodiments described above can be combined with each other.

Claims

Claims

1. Packaging (1) for a windscreen wiper blade (3), the packaging (1) extending along a specific elongation axis (01) and forming a sleeve (18) inside which at least one windscreen wiper blade (3) is intended to be housed, the packaging (1) comprising: - a bottom wall (11) forming a support for depositing the at least one windscreen wiper blade (3); - side walls (12) extending on either side of the bottom wall (11), relative to a transverse axis (Y) perpendicular to the proper elongation axis (01), - at least one upper wall (13) intended to extend above the bottom wall (11) when the packaging (1) is closed, the at least one upper wall (13) extending from one of the side walls (12), relative to the transverse axis (Y), so that the side wall (12) is located in an intermediate position between the bottom wall (11) and the upper wall (13);- the bottom wall (11), the side walls (12) and the top wall (13) all being integral with each other and delimited between them by a groove (113) extending along the specific elongation axis (01); characterized in that the packaging (1) comprises at least two support surfaces (111) each formed by a fold (112) of the bottom wall (11) which extends along the specific elongation axis (01), so that a free end of the fold (112) of each support surface (111) is intended to support the windscreen wiper blade (3) housed in the packaging (1).;

2. Packaging (1) according to the preceding claim, in which the at least two support surfaces (111) are distant from each other, relative to the transverse axis (Y) and extend parallel to each other.

3. Packaging (1) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, in which the fold (112) forming each support surface (111) has a triangular cross-section.

4. Packaging (1) according to the preceding claim, in which each fold (112) is determined by three grooves (113) all extending along the proper elongation axis (01), a central groove (113) being located exactly between two lateral grooves (113).

5. Packaging (1) according to any one of claims 1 or 2, in which the fold (112) forming each support surface (111) comprises an accordion structure.

6. Packaging (1) according to the preceding claim, in which each fold (112) is determined by at least five grooves (113) all extending along the proper elongation axis (01), and regularly spaced from each other, relative to the transverse axis (Y).

7. Packaging (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the packaging (1) comprises at least one pair of holding tabs (16) located on either side of the bottom wall (11), each holding tab (16) extending through a window (17) provided in at least one of the side walls (12) and / or the at least one top wall (13), the window (17) being delimited by slots formed on said at least one of the side walls (12) and / or said at least one top wall (13).

8. Packaging (1) according to the preceding claim, in which the holding tabs (16) of the same pair are located opposite each other.

9. Assembly (2) comprising a windscreen wiper blade (3) housed in a packaging (1) according to any one of the preceding claims, the windscreen wiper blade (3) bearing against the at least two bearing surfaces (111) of the packaging (1).

10. Assembly (2) according to the preceding claim, in which the windscreen wiper blade (3) comprises a connector (32) configured to allow mechanical coupling with a drive arm, the support surfaces (111) of the packaging (1) bearing against the connector (32) of the windscreen wiper blade (3).

11. Assembly (2) according to any one of claims 9 or 10, in which the wiper blade (3) comprises a scraping blade (33) associated with two vertebrae which extend along the own elongation axis (01), the support surfaces (111) of the packaging (1) bearing against the vertebrae of the wiper blade (3).

12. Assembly (2) according to the preceding claim, in which the support surfaces (111) are located on either side of the scraper blade (33) of the windscreen wiper blade (3).

13. Assembly (2) according to any one of claims 10 to 12 taken in combination with the packaging (1) according to claim 7, in in which the retaining tabs (16) are in laterally supported position against the wiper blade (3).

14. Assembly (2) according to the preceding claim, in which, relative to the proper elongation axis (01), the holding tabs (16) are located on either side of the connector (32).

15. Assembly (2) according to the preceding claim, in which, relative to the proper elongation axis (01), the connector (32) of the wiper blade (3) is placed in abutment against the holding tabs (16).

Images