Packaging

Abstract

Packaging 1 for storage and transporting an item. The packaging has top 2 and bottom 24 portions and a body section 46 that are each configured in use to be moveable between a first expanded configuration and a second collapsed configuration. The first expanded configuration is where the top portion, bottom portion and body section are each in their expanded configurations. The top portion is removably received on and / or releasably engaged to the upper edge of the body section, the bottom portion is removably received on and / or releasably engaged to the lower edge of the body section, and the top portion, bottom portion and body section define a cavity for storing an item. The second collapsed configuration is where the top portion, bottom portion and body section are separated from each other and are each placed in their respective second collapsed configurations for return to a distribution source for further use. The packaging may be made of cardboard.

Description

The present invention relates to packaging for an item. In particular, the present invention relates to reusable, cardboard packaging for bicycles. BACKGROUND OF INVENTION The bicycle industry faces a significant sustainability challenge that reverberates economically, commercially, and environmentally. Conventionally, secure bicycle delivery is carried out using single-use cardboard boxes. In the UK alone, 1.5 million single-use cardboard bike boxes were used for online purchases last year. This number of single-use cardboard boxes translates to 7.5 million kilograms of cardboard (equivalent to 3.25 million kg of wood (> 1,000 adult trees) being used just for a single operation. This volume of cardboard results in significant subsequent recycling or waste management. The single-use cardboard boxes used within the bicycle industry are typically bulky and unwieldy units which do not fit into standard household recycling bins. These cardboard boxes also often utilise staples and tape to secure the boxes and as such pose a significant challenge for efficient recycling. The UK bicycle market has expanded rapidly by approximately 50% spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic. Approximately 3 million units of bicycles are being sold annually within the UK. This growth is projected to continue in the medium term as a result of being driven by the rise of e-bikes, an increased focus on sustainable transportation, and the development of bike centric infrastructure across the European Union. As more consumers shift their purchasing behaviour toward ecommerce (with over a quarter of bicycles now sold online) the expansion of the bicycle market is predicted to continue to accelerate. Recycling efforts are currently insufficient in mitigating the environmental burden created by the use of this number of single-use cardboard boxes. As such, recycling, in its current form, does little to reduce the overall carbon impact of the single-use cardboard boxes within the bicycle industry. As shown in Figure 1, cardboard packaging is recycled which involves being collected by a waste collection company 200, being transported to a recycling centre 202, being transformed into recycled pulp 204 which is then utilised in manufacturing recycled cardboard 206. The recycled cardboard 206 is then used by a packaging manufacturer to provide further cardboard packaging 208 which is then supplied to warehouses for use in storage and transportation of items. Each of these steps are costly, time consuming and have a large associated carbon footprint. There is therefore a need for packaging which is capable of significantly reducing the overall carbon footprint of packaging within the bicycle industry. STATEMENT OF INVENTION According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided packaging for storage and transportation of an item, the packaging comprising: a top portion configured in use to be moveable between a first expanded configuration and a second collapsed configuration; a bottom portion configured in use to be moveable between a first expanded configuration and a second collapsed configuration; and a body section configured in use to be moveable between a first expanded configuration and a second collapsed configuration, in which the packaging is moveable between: a first expanded configuration in which the top portion, bottom portion and body section are each in their respective first expanded configurations, in which the top portion is removably received on and / or releasably engaged to the upper edge of the body section, in which the bottom portion is removably received on and / or releasably engaged to the lower edge of the body section, and in which the top portion, bottom portion and body section define a cavity therebetween for receiving and storage of an item; and a second collapsed configuration in which the top portion, bottom portion and body section are separated from each other and are each placed in their respective second collapsed configurations for return to a distribution source for further use in the storage and transportation of a further item, in which in the second collapsed configuration one or more dimensions of the packaging is less than the corresponding dimension of the packaging in the first expanded configuration. The packaging of the present invention fosters circularity as shown in Figure 1. The packaging of the present invention enables the consumer to collapse the packaging (to the second collapsed configuration) easily and efficiently after receiving the item, to return the packaging to source (i.e. to the distributor or manufacturer) via the postal system, and facilitates the source to reuse the packaging (multiple times) for storage and transportation of further items to further consumers. The packaging is preferably reusable. The packaging of the present invention provides a sustainable packaging capable of being used multiple times prior to recycling. Studies have shown that reuse of the packaging of the present invention could reduce the associated carbon dioxide emissions by a significant 80% or more. Reuse of the packaging of the present invention is also financially viable and provides for significant reduction in water consumption. The packaging of the present invention has the following advantages: 1. The packaging utilises the same carbon investment as the conventional single-use packaging. However, the reuse of the packaging of the present invention results in a net positive impact in terms of both carbon dioxide emissions and water consumption; 2. The packaging can integrate seamlessly into existing storage and transportation operations. As such, the packaging of the present invention does not require retailers or distributors to make any operational or financial adjustments in order to utilise the packaging of the present invention; 3. The packaging is collapsible providing for efficient warehousing in contrast to the inefficient use and storage of single-use packaging; 4. The packaging of the present invention incorporates a plurality of components (for example top portion, bottom portion and body section) for storage and transportation of an item. If during the operational cycle a component becomes damaged, this section can be replaced without having to replace the entire packaging. As a result, the improved durability of the packaging increases reuse rates further enhancing the associated carbon dioxide reduction. Conventional packaging for transporting items such as bikes requires the packaging to be formed in one piece and from one type of material. The conventional packaging therefore is unable to provide for optimised strength and quality in predefined regions specific for the item. As a result, conventional packaging is considered to be wasteful as not all areas of the item within the packaging require the same level of packaging material quality, structure or print cover. The packaging of the present invention comprises multiple components and as such suitable materials may be selected independently for each component depending on the particular requirements. As conventional packaging is formed from one piece of material, this requires a substantially large machine to manufacture (for example die-cut) and print the packaging. As a result, there are a limited number of manufacturers having the capacity to manufacture conventional packaging resulting in high prices and mass production. The packaging of the present invention is formed from multiple smaller components and as such addresses the manufacturing supply limitation and allows for the packaging to be prepared on smaller scale machines. Conventional packaging is configured such that the item, i.e. bicycle, is loaded from an end of the packaging. This is a difficult operation and requires two operators to be present for loading, positioning and securing the bicycle within the packaging. The packaging of the present invention addresses these difficulties by being modular and therefore enabling the packaging to be assembled by a single operator. For example, the item, i.e. bicycle, may be positioned on the bottom portion. The body section may then be arranged around the item, and the top portion then placed in position on the body section. During assembly of the packaging, the item within remains visible and easy to secure. The packaging of the present invention is also much easier for the customer to unpack to access the item without risk of damage to the item or personal damage. The item is preferably a bicycle (including for example e-bikes). Preferably, the top portion comprises a first end, a second opposed end, and a pair of spaced apart side portions extending therebetween. Preferably, the bottom portion comprises a first end, a second opposed end, and a pair of spaced apart side portions extending therebetween. Preferably, the body section comprises an upper edge, an opposed lower edge and a continuous side portion. In the first expanded configuration, the top portion preferably defines a first recess for receiving at least the upper edge of the body section. In the second collapsed configuration, the top portion is preferably substantially planar. For example, one or more portions of the top portion may be stacked (for example positioned or folded) on top of each other, in the second collapsed configuration, to provide a substantially planartop portion. The top portion is preferably configured in use to be movable between the first expanded configuration and the second collapsed configuration by folding. The top portion preferably comprises at least one predefined fold configured in use to enable the top portion to be moved between the first expanded configuration and second collapsed configuration. The at least one predefined fold is preferably positioned to enable the length of the top portion (as measured between the first and second ends thereof) when placed in the second collapsed position to be reduced compared to the length of the top portion when placed in the first expanded position. In one embodiment, the top portion comprises at least one predefined fold extending between the side portions thereof. e top portion preferably defines a first longitudinal axis extending between the first and second ends thereof, and in which the at least one predefined fold preferably extends substantially perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis. In one embodiment, the at least one predefined fold is located substantially centrally between the first and second ends of the top portion. The top portion may comprise at least one predefined fold located substantially centrally and extending substantially perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis. The length of the top portion (when measured in a direction extending between the first and second ends thereof) in the second collapsed configuration is preferably less than or equal to half the length of the top portion in the first expanded configuration. In the first expanded configuration, the bottom portion preferably defines a second recess for receiving at least the lower edge of the body section. In the second collapsed configuration, the bottom portion is preferably substantially planar. For example, one or more portions of the top portion may be stacked (for example positioned or folded) on top of each other, in the second collapsed configuration to provide a substantially planar bottom portion. The bottom portion is preferably configured in use to be movable between the first expanded configuration and the second collapsed configuration by folding. The bottom portion preferably comprises at least one predefined fold configured in use to enable the bottom portion to be moved between the first expanded configuration and second collapsed configuration. The at least one predefined fold is preferably positioned to enable the length of the bottom portion (as measured between the first and second ends thereof) when placed in the second collapsed position to be reduced compared to the length of the bottom portion when placed in the first expanded position. In one embodiment, the bottom portion comprises at least one predefined fold extending between the side portions thereof. The bottom portion preferably defines a second longitudinal axis extending between the first and second ends thereof, and in which the at least one predefined fold preferably extends substantially perpendicular to the second longitudinal axis. The predefined fold may be located in any suitable location on the bottom portion. In one embodiment, the at least one predefined fold is located substantially centrally between the first and second ends of the bottom portion. The bottom portion may comprise at least one predefined fold located substantially centrally and extending substantially perpendicular to the second longitudinal axis. The length of the bottom portion (when measured in a direction extending between the first and second ends thereof) in the second collapsed configuration is preferably less than or equal to half the length of the bottom portion in the first expanded configuration. The body section may be moveable between the first expanded configuration and the second collapsed configuration by folding. In one embodiment, the body section comprises at least one predefined fold extending between the upper and lower edges thereof. The body section preferably comprises a front surface, an opposed rear surface, and a first and second side surfaces extending between the front and rear surfaces. A first predefined fold may be provided extending between the first side surface and the front surface of the body section. A second predefined fold may be provided extending between the first side surface and the rear surface of the body section. A third predefined fold may be provided extending between the second side surface and the front surface of the body section. A fourth predefined fold may be provided extending between the second side surface and the rear surface of the body section. One or more, preferably each, of the predefined folds present on the body section preferably extend in a direction extending substantially parallel to an axis extending between the upper and lower edges of the body section. One or more of the front and rear surfaces of the body section may comprise one or more predefined folds. For example, the front surface of the body section may comprise one or more predefined folds located to be aligned with one or more predefined folds located on the rear surface of the body section. In one embodiment, the body section comprises a plurality of removably mountable body portions configured in use to be mountable together to provide the continuous side portion of the body section. For example, the body section may comprise a first body portion and a second body portion, the first body portion being configured to be removably mountable with the second body portion to provide the continuous side portion of the body section. The first body portion is preferably substantially identical in shape and dimensions to the second body portion. In one embodiment, each of the body portions provides a portion of the upper edge of the body section, and a lower edge of the body section. For example, each of the first and second body portions provides a portion of the upper edge of the body section, and a portion of the lower edge of the body section. The body section preferably comprises a front surface and an opposed rear surface extending between the upper and lower edges thereof. The body section preferably further comprises a first side surface and an opposed second side surface extending between the front and rear surfaces and the upper and lower edges of the body section. In one embodiment, the first body portion preferably comprises a front portion configured in use to provide a portion of the front surface of the body section. The first body portion preferably comprises a rear portion configured in use to provide a portion of the rear surface of the body section. The first body portion preferably comprises a side portion, extending between the front and rear portions thereof, in which the side portion is preferably configured in use to provide the first side surface of the body section. In one embodiment, the second body portion preferably comprises a front portion configured in use to provide a portion of the front surface of the body section. The second body portion preferably comprises a rear portion configured in use to provide a portion of the rear surface of the body section. The second body portion preferably comprises a side portion, extending between the front and rear portions thereof, in which the side portion is preferably configured in use to provide the second side surface of the body section. Preferably, when the body section is in the first expanded configuration, the front portion of the first body portion abuts or overlaps with the front portion of the second body portion to provide the continuous side portion of the body section. When the body section is in the first expanded configuration, the rear portion of the first body portion preferably abuts or overlaps with the rear portion of the second body portion to provide the continuous side portion of the body section. The length of the body section (as measured in a direction extending perpendicular to an axis extending between the upper and lower edges thereof) in the second collapsed configuration is preferably less than or equal to half the length of the body section in the first expanded configuration. In the first expanded configuration, the top portion preferably comprises a top section, a first and a second opposed end portion upstanding from the top section at or adjacent the first and second ends of the top portion. The top portion preferably further comprises a pair of spaced apart side portion members upstanding from the top section at or adjacent the first and second side portions of the top portion. A first recess is preferably defined between the top section, the first and second end portions, and the pair of spaced apart side portion members. The first recess is preferably configured in use to receive at least the upper edge of the body section. Preferably, at least one of the pair of end portions and / or pair of side portion members of the top portion provide at least one abutment surface (for example on the inner surface thereof) configured in use to abut a portion of the body section adjacent the upper end thereof in the first expanded configuration. In the first expanded configuration, the bottom portion preferably comprises a bottom section, a first and a second opposed end portion upstanding from the bottom section at or adjacent the first and second ends of the bottom portion. The bottom portion preferably further comprises a pair of spaced apart side portion members upstanding from the bottom section at or adjacent the first and second side portions of the bottom portion. A second recess is preferably defined between the bottom section, the first and second end portions and the pair of spaced apart side portion members. The second recess is preferably configured in use to receive at least the lower edge of the body section. Preferably, at least one of the pair of end portions and / or pair of side portion members the bottom portion provides an abutment surface (for example on an inner surface thereof) configured in use to abut a portion of the body section adjacent to the lower end thereof in the first expanded configuration. In the first expanded configurations, the top portion and / or bottom portion are preferably configured in use to receive and retain at least a portion of the at least first and second body portions mounted relative to each other to provide the continuous side portions of the body section. In the first expanded configuration, the top portion and / or bottom portion preferably comprises at least a pair of spaced apart, opposed abutment surfaces for retaining the first and second body portions in the mounted configuration. In one embodiment, the top portion and / or bottom portion further comprises at least one opening or handle portion configured in use to receive a hand of a user. For example, the top portion and / or bottom portion preferably further comprises a pair of spaced apart openings or handle portion. In one embodiment, the or each opening or handle portion provided in the top portion may be aligned with a corresponding opening or handle portion provided in the bottom portion. The at least one handle portion is preferably releasably engaged to the top portion and / or bottom portion. The at least one handle portion may be removed from engagement with the top portion and / or bottom portion prior to moving the top portion from the first expanded configuration to the second collapsed configuration. The packaging is preferably composed of cardboard material. For example, the top portion, bottom portion and body section are preferably composed of cardboard material. The packaging is preferably free from plastics, for example free of nylon. The packaging may include one or more further packaging portions configured in use to retain and / or protect particular parts of the item received within the cavity. These packaging portions are preferably dimensioned to be received within the cavity defined by the packaging. The or each packaging portion may also be movable between a first expanded position (configured in use to receive and retain at least a portion of an item) and a second collapsed position. The or each packaging portion may be moveable between the first expanded position and second collapsed position by folding. The or each packaging portion may comprise one or more predefined fold lines configured in use to enable the packaging portion to be moved between the first expanded position and second collapsed position by folding. Preferably, the dimensions of the packaging (width, length and depth) in the second collapsed configuration are each reduced in comparison to the corresponding dimensions of the packaging in the first expanded configuration. Preferably the dimensions of the packaging in the second collapsed configuration are each reduced by at least 20%, preferably at least 30%, preferably at least 40%, preferably at least 50% in comparison to the corresponding dimensions of the packaging in the first expanded configuration. According to a further aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for storing and transporting an item, the method comprising: obtaining packaging as herein described; placing the body section in the first expanded position; placing the bottom portion in the first expanded position and inserting or positioning at least the lower edge of the body section into or onto the bottom portion; inserting an item into a cavity defined between the body section and the bottom portion; and placing the top portion in the first expanded position and inserting or positioning at least the upper edge of the body section into the top portion. The method may further comprise obtaining one or more further packaging portions. The method may further comprise placing the or each packaging portion in a first expanded configuration. The method may further comprise positioning the or each packaging portion in position relative to the item to receive and retain at least a portion of an item therein. For example, if the item is a bike, the packaging portion(s) in the expanded configuration may be positioned to receive and retain a pedal or wheel of the bicycle to protect these areas during storage and transit. The packaging portion(s) are preferably positioned at predefined locations within the cavity of the packaging. For example, the packaging portion(s) may be positioned to restrict movement of the item within the cavity of the packaging during storage and transport. The method may further comprise: removing the top portion from contact with the body section; placing the top portion in the second collapsed position; removing the item from the cavity defined between the body section and the bottom portion; removing the bottom portion from contact with the body section; placing the bottom portion in the second collapsed position; and placing the body section in the second collapsed position. The method may further comprise: stacking the top portion, bottom portion and body section (and optional further packaging portion(s)), in their respective second collapsed configurations, together; and securing the stacked top portion, bottom portion and body section (and optional further packaging portion(s)) in position using a fastener configured in use to prevent unintentional separation of the stacked top portion, bottom portion and body section. The fastener may for example comprise a strap. The method may further comprise inserting the top portion, bottom portion and body section in their respective second collapsed configurations into a housing. The housing may for example comprise a sleeve or box. The housing may be composed of cardboard. The method may further comprise: reusing the packaging for storage and transportation of a further item. The method may further comprise moving at least one of the top portion, body section and / or bottom portion between the first expanded configuration and second collapsed configuration by folding. The step of placing the body section in the second collapsed position preferably comprises dismounting a first body portion from a second body portion of the body section. According to a further aspect of the present invention is a method of utilising an item of packaging for storage and distribution of multiple items, the method comprising: a) obtaining packaging as herein described at a source; b) placing the packaging in the first expanded configuration providing a cavity; c) inserting an item into the cavity defined by the packaging; d) transporting the packaging from the source to a consumer; e) placing the packaging in the second collapsed configuration; f) returning the packaging from the consumer to the source; and g) repeating steps a) to f). The cycle of transporting the packaging from source to the consumer; and returning the packaging from the consumer to the source may be repeated a plurality of times until the packaging is no longer suitable for the transportation and storage of an item. At this stage, the packaging may be recycled. The cycle may further comprise storing the packaging in the second collapsed configuration after returning to source and prior to reusing the packaging. The packaging comprises at least three components: the top portion, the bottom portion and the body section. During use (i.e. during storage and / or transportation) one or more of the components may become damaged and unsuitable for further use. The method may therefore further comprise substituting one or more components of the packaging with a further identical component (and optionally recycling the original component) so that the remainder of the packaging (the undamaged components) may continue to be reused. The top portion and bottom portion may be substantially identical in shape and dimensions, top portion and bottom portion may be interchangeable with each other. As such, the packaging may contain two separate types of components. Embodiments of the present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the following Figures: BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF FIGURES Figure 1 is a schematic illustration of the method of utilising the packaging of the present invention for the storage and transportation of items; Figure 2 is a photograph of the packaging according to one embodiment of the present invention in a first expanded configuration; and Figure 3 is a photograph of the packaging of Figure 2 in a second collapsed configuration. DETAILED DESCRIPTION With respect to Figures 2 and 3, the packaging 1 is composed of cardboard. The packaging is preferably free from plastic. Top portion The packaging 1 comprises a top portion 2 comprising a first end 4, a second opposed end 6, and a pair of spaced apart side portions 8,10 extending therebetween. The top portion 2 is configured in use to be moveable between a first expanded configuration (as shown in Figure 2) and a second collapsed configuration (as shown in Figure 3). In the illustrated embodiment, the top portion 2 is configured to be movable between the first expanded configuration and second collapsed configuration by folding. In the first expanded position (as shown in Figure 2), the top portion 2 comprises a top section 12, a first 14 and a second opposed end portion upstanding therefrom at or adjacent the first 4 and second 6 ends of the top portion 2, and a pair of spaced apart side portion members 18 upstanding therefrom at or adjacent the first and second side portions 8,10 of the top portion 2. A first recess (not shown) is defined between the top section 12, the first and second end portions 14 and the pair of spaced apart side portion members 18. The first and second end portions 14 together with the pair of spaced apart side portion members 18 define a continuous abutment surface (on an inner surface thereof) extending around the perimeter of the top section 12. It is to be understood, in the first expanded configuration, that the first and second end portions 14 and / or side portion members 18 may be located at any suitable location relative to the top section and are not limited to being provided at the perimeter of the top section 12. For example, one or more of the first and second end portions 14 and / or side portion members 18 may be provided adjacent a corresponding end 4, 6 or side 8, 10 of the top portion 2. It is also to be understood that the end portions 14 and the side portion members 18 may be discrete sections providing a plurality of spaced apart abutment surface at or adjacent the perimeter of the top section 12. In the illustrated embodiment, the top portion 2 has a rectangular cross-section. The length of the top portion 2 is measured between the first and second ends 4, 6 thereof. The first recess defined by the top portion 2 in the first expanded configuration has a substantially rectangular cross section. It is to be understood that the top portion 2 may have any suitable shape and dimensions and is not limited to the illustrated embodiment. It is also to be understood that the number of end portions 14 and / or side portion members 18 may vary. For example, the number of end portions 14 may be dependent on the shape of the top portion (i.e. top section). Furthermore, the top portion may contain a pair of end portions without requiring side portion members to be present, or vice versa. Each side portion member 18 of the top portion 2 provides a pair of spaced apart, rectangular openings for releasably engagement with a handle portion 22. It is to be understood that each side portion member may contain any suitable number of openings and / or handle portion for receiving a hand of a user. The shape of the openings is not to be limited to being rectangular and may have any suitable shape for use by a user. Each of the end portions 14 and side portion members 18 are connected to the top section 12 by a predefined fold line. Each of the end portions 14 and side portion members 18 may be moved between the first expanded configuration and second collapsed configuration by folding along the predefined fold line. The top section 12 further comprises a predefined fold 13 extending between side portions thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, the top section 12 defines a first longitudinal axis extending between opposed ends of the top portion. The top section 12 comprises a predefined fold 13, located substantially centrally between the opposed ends thereof, and extending substantially perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis of the top section. The predefined fold 13 extends substantially perpendicular to the side portions of the top portion. It is however to be understood that the top section 12 may comprise any suitable number of predefined folds, located at any suitable location, and extending in any suitable direction, to enable movement of the top section between the first expanded configuration and second collapsed configuration. The length of the top portion 2 (as measured between opposed ends thereof) in the second collapsed configuration is less than or equal to half the length of the top portion in the first expanded configuration. The top portion 2 is composed of cardboard and is preferably free from plastic. Bottom portion The packaging 1 further comprises a bottom portion 24. The bottom portion 24 comprises a first end 26, a second opposed end, and a pair of spaced apart side portions 30 extending therebetween. The bottom portion 24 is configured in use to be moveable between a first expanded configuration (as shown in Figure 2) and a second collapsed configuration (as shown in Figure 3). In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom portion 24 is configured to be movable between the first expanded configuration and second collapsed configuration by folding. In the first expanded position (as shown in Figure 2), the bottom portion 24 comprises a bottom section, a first 36 and a second opposed end portion upstanding therefrom at or adjacent the first 26 and second ends of the bottom portion 24, and a pair of spaced apart side portion members 40 upstanding therefrom at or adjacent the first and second side portions 30 of the bottom portion 24. A second recess (not shown) is defined between the bottom section, the first and second end portions 36 and the pair of spaced apart side portion members 40. The first and second end portions 36 together with the pair of spaced apart side portion members 40 define a continuous abutment surface extending around the perimeter of the bottom section. It is to be understood, in the first expanded configuration, that the first and second end portions 36 and / or side portion members 40 may be located at any suitable location relative to the bottom section and are not limited to being provided at the perimeter of the bottom section. For example, one or more of the first and second end portions 36 and / or side portion members 40 may be provided adjacent a corresponding end 26 or side 30 of the bottom portion 24. It is also to be understood that the end portions 36 and / or the side portion members 40 may be discrete sections providing a plurality of spaced apart abutment surface at or adjacent the perimeter of the bottom section. In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom portion 24 has a rectangular cross-section. The length of the bottom portion 24 is measured between the first and second ends 26 thereof. The second recess defined by the bottom portion 24 in the first expanded configuration has a substantially rectangular cross section. It is to be understood that the bottom portion 24 may have any suitable shape and dimensions and is not limited to the illustrated embodiment. It is also to be understood that the number of end portions 36 and / or side portion members 40 may vary. For example, the number of end portions 36 may be dependent on the shape of the bottom portion (i.e. bottom section). Furthermore, the bottom portion may contain a pair of end portions without requiring side portion members to be present, or vice versa. Each side portion member 40 of the bottom portion 24 provides a pair of spaced apart, rectangular openings for releasable engagement with a handle portion 44. It is to be understood that each side portion member may contain any suitable number of openings and / or handle portion for receiving a hand of a user. The shape of the openings is not to be limited to being rectangular and may have any suitable shape for use by a user. Each of the end portions 36 and side portion members 40 are connected to the bottom section 24 by a predefined fold line. Each of the end portions 36 and side portion members 40 may be moved between the first expanded configuration and second collapsed configuration by folding along the predefined fold line. The bottom section further comprises a predefined fold extending between side portions thereof. In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom section defines a first longitudinal axis extending between opposed ends of the bottom portion. The bottom section comprises a predefined fold, located substantially centrally between the opposed ends thereof, and extending substantially perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis of the bottom section. The predefined fold extends substantially perpendicular to the side portions 30 of the bottom portion. It is however to be understood that the bottom section may comprise any suitable number of predefined folds, located at any suitable location, and extending in any suitable direction, to enable movement of the top section between the first expanded configuration and second collapsed configuration. The length of the bottom portion 24 (as measured between opposed ends thereof) in the second collapsed configuration is less than or equal to half the length of the top portion in the first expanded configuration. The bottom portion 24 is formed from cardboard and is preferably free of plastic. In the illustrated embodiment, the bottom portion 24 and top portion 12 are identical in shape and dimensions and may be interchangeable with each other. Body section The packaging 1 further comprises a body section 46 comprising an upper edge, an opposed lower edge and a continuous side portion 52. The body section 46 is moveable between a first expanded configuration (Figure 2) and a second collapsed configuration (Figure 3). In the illustrated embodiment, the body section 46 is configured to be movable between the first expanded configuration and second collapsed configuration by folding. The length of the body section 46 (as measured in a direction extending perpendicular to an axis extending between the upper and lower edges thereof) in the second collapsed configuration is less than or equal to half the length of the body section 46 in the first expanded configuration. In the illustrated embodiment, the body section 46 comprises a first body portion 54 and a second body portion 56. In this embodiment, the body section 46 comprises two body portions. It is however to be understood that the body section 46 may comprise any suitable number of body portions and is not to be limited to two. The first body portion 54 is configured in use to be removably mountable with the second body portion 56 to provide the continuous side portion 52 of the body section 46. The first body portion 54 is substantially identical in shape and dimensions to the second body portion 56. It is however to be understood that the shape and dimensions of each body portion 54, 56 may vary depending on the requirements for the body section 46. The first and second body portions 54, 56 are positioned and mounted, in the first expanded configuration, at or adjacent each other such that each of the body portions 54, 56 provides a portion of the upper edge of the body section 46. Furthermore, each of the body portions 54, 56 are mounted, in the first expanded configuration, at or adjacent each other to provide a portion of the lower edge of the body section 46. The body section 46 comprises a front surface 58 and an opposed rear surface extending between the upper and lower edges thereof, and in which the body section further comprises a first side surface and an opposed second side surface 64 extending between the front and rear surfaces 58 and the upper and lower edges of the body section 46. The first body portion 54 comprises a front portion 66 configured in use to provide a portion of the front surface 58 of the body section 46, a rear portion configured in use to provide a portion of the rear surface of the body section 46, and a side portion extending between the front and rear portions 66 thereof. The side portion of the first body portion 54 is configured in use to provide the first side surface of the body section. The second body portion 56 comprises a front portion 72 configured in use to provide a portion of the front surface 58 of the body section 46, a rear portion configured in use to provide a portion of the rear surface of the body section 46, and a side portion 76 extending between the front and rear portions 58 thereof. The side portion 76 is configured in use to provide the second side surface 64 of the body section 46. When the body section 46 is in the first expanded configuration, the front portion 66 of the first body portion abuts 54 or overlaps with the front portion 72 of the second body portion 56 to provide the continuous side portion of the body section 46. When the body section 46 is in the first expanded configuration, the rear portion of the first body portion 54 abuts or overlaps with the rear portion of the second body portion 56 to provide the continuous side portion of the body section 46. When the body section 46 is in the second collapsed configuration, at least a portion of the rear portion of the first body portion 54 extends substantially parallel to and abuts at least a portion of the front portion 66 of the first body portion 45. Furthermore, when in the second collapsed configuration, at least a portion of the rear portion of the second body portion 56 extends substantially parallel to and abuts at least a portion of the front portion 72 of the second body portion 56. Packaging in the first expanded configuration With reference to Figure 1, the item is purchased by a consumer for example online and delivered 100 in packaging 1 in the first expanded configuration to the consumer from the shop / distributor. In the first expanded configuration, the top portion 2 defines a first recess (not shown) between the top section 12, the first and second end portions 14 and the pair of spaced apart side portion members 18. Each of the pair of end portions 14 and pair of spaced apart side portion members 18 provide an abutment surface on the inner surface thereof configured in use to abut the body section 46 of the packaging in the first expanded configuration. In the first expanded configuration, the bottom portion 24 defines a second recess (not shown) between the bottom section, the first and second end portions 36 and the pair of spaced apart side portion members 40. Each of the pair of end portions 36 and pair of spaced apart side portion members 40 provide an abutment surface on the inner surface thereof configured in use to abut the body section 46 of the packaging in the first expanded configuration. In use, the body section 46 is placed in the first expanded configuration defining a cavity for receiving an item. The first body portion 54 is positioned adjacent the second body portion 56 such that the front surfaces 66, 72 of the first and second body portions 54, 56 abut respectively to provide a continuous front surface 58 of the body section 46, and the rear surfaces of the first and second body portions 54, 56 abut to provide a continuous rear surface of the body section 46. The upper edge of the body section 46 is received within the first recess (not shown) of the top portion 2. The lower edge of the body section 46 is received within the second recess (not shown) of the bottom portion 24. The upper edge of the body section 46 (and adjacent portions) abut against the abutment surface provided by the pair of end portions 14 and side portion members 18 of the top portion 2. The lower edge of the body section 46 (and adjacent portions) abut against the abutment surface provided by the pair of end portions 36 and side portion members 40 of the bottom portion 24. The top portion 2 and the base portion 24 are therefore configured to prevent unintentional movement or separation of the first and second body portions 54, 56 when placed in the first expanded position. In the first expanded position, the handles 44 of the bottom portion 24 are aligned with (in a direction extending parallel to an axis extending between the upper and lower edges of the body section 46) and spaced apart from the handles 22 of the top portion 22. The dimensions of the packaging in the first expanded configuration are 160 cm x 70 cm x 18 cm. Second collapsed configuration The item, for example bicycle, is transported from the source (i.e. distributor) to the consumer 100. On receipt, the user removes the top portion 2 from the body section 46. The consumer then removes each of the first and second body portions 54, 56 from the bottom portion 24 to access the item. Once the item has been removed from the packaging 1, the consumer begins to move the packaging towards the second collapsed configuration for return, via the postal system, to the distributor for reuse. The consumer disengages the handle portions 22, 44 from the respective top portion 2 and bottom portion 24. The consumer releases the first and second end portions 14 and spaced apart side portions members 18 and folds these portions (along the predefined folds located between the respective portions and the top section) to extend adjacent to and to abut the top section of the top portion 2. The consumer then folds the top section 12 along predefined fold 13. The consumer then releases the first and second end portions 26 and spaced apart side portion members 30 and folds these portions (along predefined folds) to extend adjacent to and to abut the bottom section. The consumer then folds the bottom section along predefined fold 35. The consumer moves the first body portion and second body portion 54, 56 to the first collapsed configuration by positioning the portions of the body portion 54, 56 which provide the front surface 66, 72 and rear surface adjacent each other. The first body portion 54, second body portion 56, top portion 2 and bottom portion 24, in the first collapsed configuration, are stacked on top of each other. The dimensions of the packaging in the second collapsed configuration, in the illustrated embodiment, are 60 cm x 30 cm x 8 cm (Figure 3). It can therefore be seen that each dimension (length, width and depth) of the packaging 1 in the second collapsed configuration (Figure 3) is less than half the corresponding dimension of the packaging 1 in the first expanded configuration (Figure 2). The consumer may use a fastener, for example a strap, to retain the top portion 2, bottom portion 24 and base section 46 in position relative to each other in the stacked arrangement in the second collapsed configuration for ease of transportation during return to a drop off facility 102 or the distributor. With reference to Figure 1, on return to a drop off facility 102, the packaging 1 in the second collapsed configuration is transported for cleaning and storage at a warehouse facility 104. The packaging 1 is checked for any damage and where necessary portions of the packaging are replaced. The packaging 1 is then reused by the distributor for transporting items to further consumers. The packaging 1 therefore removes the need for a number of steps involved with current cardboard based packaging including waste collection, transformation to pulp and manufacturing of recycled cardboard boxes. The packaging 1 and method of the present invention therefore provide an efficient, cost-effective, packaging and method with a significantly reduced carbon footprint.

Claims

1. Packaging for storage and transportation of an item, the packaging comprising:a top portion configured in use to be moveable between a first expanded configuration and a second collapsed configuration;a bottom portion configured in use to be moveable between a first expanded configuration and a second collapsed configuration; anda body section configured in use to be moveable between a first expanded configuration and a second collapsed configuration,in which the packaging is moveable between:a first expanded configuration in which the top portion, bottom portion and body section are each in their respective first expanded configurations, in which the top portion is removably received on and / or releasably engaged to the upper edge of the body section, in which the bottom portion is removably received on and / or releasably engaged to the lower edge of the body section, and in which the top portion, bottom portion and body section define a cavity therebetween for receiving and storage of an item; anda second collapsed configuration in which the top portion, bottom portion and body section are separated from each other and are each placed in their respective second collapsed configurations for return to a distribution source for further use in the storage and transportation of a further item.

2. Packaging as claimed in claim 1, in which in the first expanded configuration, the top portion defines a first recess for receiving at least the upper edge of the body section, and in the second collapsed configuration, the top portion is substantially planar.

3. Packaging as claimed in either of claims 1 and 2, in which in the first expanded configuration the bottom portion defines a second recess for receiving at leastthe lower edge of the body section, and in the second collapse configuration, the bottom portion is substantially planar.

4. Packaging as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the top portion comprises at least one predefined fold configured in use to enable the top portion to be moved between the first expanded configuration and second collapsed configuration.

5. Packaging as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the bottom portion comprises at least one predefined fold configured in use to enable the bottom portion to be moved between the first expanded configuration and second collapsed configuration.

6. Packaging as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the top portion comprises a first end, a second opposed end, and a pair of spaced apart side portions extending therebetween, and in which the top portion comprises at least one predefined fold extending between the side portions thereof.

7. Packaging as claimed in claim 6, in which the top portion defines a first longitudinal axis extending between the first and second ends thereof, and in which the at least one predefined fold extends substantially perpendicular to the first longitudinal axis.

8. Packaging as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the bottom portion comprises a first end, a second opposed end, and a pair of spaced apart side portions extending therebetween, and in which the bottom portion comprises at least one predefined fold extending between the side portions thereof.

9. Packaging as claimed in claim 8, in which the bottom portion defines a second longitudinal axis extending between the first and second ends thereof, and in which the at least one predefined fold extends substantially perpendicular to the second longitudinal axis.

10. Packaging as claimed in any one of claims 4 to 9, in which the at least one predefined fold is located substantially centrally between the first and second ends of the respective top and / or bottom portion.

11. Packaging as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the length of the top portion and / or bottom portion and / or body section in the second collapsed configuration is less than or equal to half the length of the respective top portion and / or bottom portion and / or body section in the first expanded configuration.

12. Packaging as claimed in any preceding claim, in which in the first expanded configuration, the top portion comprises a top section, a first and a second opposed end portion upstanding therefrom at or adjacent the first and second ends of the top portion, and a pair of spaced apart side portion members upstanding therefrom at or adjacent the first and second side portions of the top portion, in which a first recess is defined between the top section, the first and second end portions, and the pair of spaced apart side portion members, and in which the first recess is configured in use to receive at least the upper edge of the body section.

13. Packaging as claimed in claim 12, in which at least one of the pair of end portions and / or pair of ends of the top portion provide an abutment surface on an inner surface thereof configured in use to abut the body section of the packaging in the first expanded configuration.

14. Packaging as claimed in any preceding, in which the bottom portion comprises a bottom section, a first and a second opposed end portion upstanding therefrom at or adjacent the first and second ends of the bottom portion, and a pair of spaced apart side portion members upstanding therefrom at or adjacent the first and second side portions of the bottom portion, in which a second recess is defined between the bottom section, the first and second end portions and thepair of spaced apart side portion members, and in which the second recess is configured in use to receive at least the lower edge of the body section.

15. Packaging as claimed in claim 14, in which at least one of the pair of end portions and / or pair of ends of the bottom portion provide an abutment surface on an inner surface thereof configured in use to abut the body section of the packaging in the first expanded configuration.

16. Packaging as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the body section comprises at least a first body portion and a second body portion, the first body portion being configured to be removably mountable with the second body portion to provide the continuous side portion of the body section.

17. Packaging as claimed in claim 16, in which of the at least first and second body portions provides a portion of the upper edge of the body section, and a portion of the lower edge of the body section.

18. Packaging as claimed in either of claims 16 and 17, in which the body section comprises an upper edge, an opposed lower edge and a continuous side portion, and in which the body section further comprises a front surface and an opposed rear surface extending between the upper and lower edges thereof, and in which the body section further comprises a first side surface and an opposed second side surface extending between the front and rear surfaces and the upper and lower edges of the body section, and in which the first body portion comprises a front portion configured in use to provide a portion of the front surface of the body section, a rear portion configured in use to provide a portion of the rear surface of the body section, and a side portion extending between the front and rear portions thereof, in which the side portion is configured in use to provide the first side surface of the body section, and in which the second body portion comprises a front portion configured in use to provide a portion of the front surface of the body section, a rear portion configured in use to provide a portion of the rear surface of the body section, and a side portion extending between thefront and rear portions thereof, in which the side portion is configured in use to provide the second side surface of the body section.

19. Packaging as claimed in claim 18, in which when the body section is in the first expanded configuration, the front portion of the first body portion abuts or overlaps with the front portion of the second body portion to provide the continuous side portion of the body section, and in which the rear portion of the first body portion abuts or overlaps with the rear portion of the second body portion to provide the continuous side portion of the body section.

20. Packaging as claimed in either of claims 18 and 19, in which in the first expanded configurations, the top portion and / or bottom portion are configured in use to receive and retain at least a portion of the at least first and second body portions mounted relative to each other to provide the continuous side portions of the body section.

21. Packaging as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 20, in which the packaging is composed of cardboard material.

22. A method for storing and transporting an item, the method comprising: obtaining packaging as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 21;placing the body section in the first expanded position;placing the bottom portion in the first expanded position and inserting or positioning at least the lower edge of the body section into or onto the bottom portion;inserting an item into a cavity defined between the body section and the bottom portion; andplacing the top portion in the first expanded position and inserting or positioning at least the upper edge of the body section into the top portion.

23. A method as claimed in claim 22, further comprising:removing the top portion from contact with the body section;placing the top portion in the second collapsed position;removing the item from the cavity defined between the body section and the bottom portion;removing the bottom portion from contact with the body section;placing the bottom portion in the second collapsed position; andplacing the body section in the second collapsed position; optionally further comprising:stacking the top portion, bottom portion and body section, in their respective second collapsed configurations, together; andsecuring the stacked top portion, bottom portion and body section in position using a fastener configured in use to prevent unintentional separation of the stacked top portion, bottom portion and body section.

24. A method as claimed in either of claims 22 and 23, further comprising inserting the top portion, bottom portion and body section in their respective second collapsed configurations into a housing, and optionally further comprising:reusing the packaging for storage and transportation of a further item.

25. A method as claimed in any one of claims 22 to 24, in which the step of placing the body section in the second collapsed position comprises dismounting a first body portion from a second body portion of the body section.AMENDMENTS TO THE CLAIMS HAVE BEEN FILED AS FOLLOWS:-CLAIMS07 01 251. Packaging for a storage and transportation of a bicycle, the packaging comprising: a first portion configured in use to be moveable between a first5 expanded configuration and a second collapsed configuration;a second portion configured in use to be moveable between a first expanded configuration and a second collapsed configuration; anda body section configured in use to be moveable between a first expanded configuration and a second collapsed configuration, in which the10 body section comprises an first edge, an opposed second edge and acontinuous side portion, in which the body section comprises a front surface and an opposed rear surface extending between the first and second edges thereof, and in which the body section further comprises a first side surface and an opposed second side surface extending between the front and rear15 surfaces and the first and second edges of the body section,in which the packaging is moveable between:a first expanded configuration in which the first portion, second portion and body section are each in their respective first expanded configurations, in which the first portion is removably received on and / or releasably engaged to20 the first edge of the body section, in which the second portion is removablyreceived on and / or releasably engaged to the second edge of the body section, and in which the first portion, second portion and body section define a cavity therebetween for receiving and storage of a bicycle; anda second collapsed configuration in which the first portion, second25 portion and body section are separated from each other and are each placedin their respective second collapsed configurations for return to a distribution source for further use in the storage and transportation of a further bicycle,in which in the second collapsed configuration one or more dimensions of the packaging is less than the corresponding dimension of the packaging in30 the first expanded configuration,07 01 25in which the body section comprises a first body portion and a second body portion, the first body portion being configured in use to be removably mountable with the second body portion to provide the continuous side portion of the body section, and in which the first body portion is substantially5 identical in shape and dimensions to the second body portion,in which the first body portion comprises a front portion configured in use to provide a portion of a front surface of the body section, a rear portion configured in use to provide a portion of a rear surface of the body section, and a side portion extending between the front and rear portions thereof, in10 which the side portion is configured in use to provide a first side surface of thebody section, and in which the second body portion comprises a front portion configured in use to provide a portion of the front surface of the body section, a rear portion configured in use to provide a portion of the rear surface of the body section, and a side portion extending between the front and rear portions15 thereof, in which the side portion is configured in use to provide a second sidesurface of the body section, in which when the body section is in the first expanded configuration, the front portion of the first body portion abuts or overlaps with the front portion of the second body portion to provide the continuous side portion of the body section, and in which the rear portion of20 the first body portion abuts or overlaps with the rear portion of the secondbody portion to provide the continuous side portion of the body section.

2. Packaging as claimed in claim 1, in which in the first expanded configuration, the first portion defines a first recess for receiving at least the first edge of the body 25 section, and in the second collapsed configuration, the first portion is substantiallyplanar.

3. Packaging as claimed in either of claims 1 and 2, in which in the first expanded configuration the second portion defines a second recess for receiving at least the 30 second edge of the body section, and in the second collapse configuration, thesecond portion is substantially planar.07 01 254. Packaging as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the first portion comprises at least one predefined fold configured in use to enable the first portion to be moved between the first expanded configuration and second collapsed 5 configuration.

5. Packaging as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the second portion comprises at least one predefined fold configured in use to enable the second portion to be moved between the first expanded configuration and second 10 collapsed configuration.

6. Packaging as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the first portion comprises a first end, a second opposed end, and a pair of spaced apart side portions extending therebetween, and in which the first portion comprises at least one 15 predefined fold extending between the side portions thereof.

7. Packaging as claimed in claim 6, in which the first portion defines a first longitudinal axis extending between the first and second ends thereof, and in which the at least one predefined fold extends substantially perpendicular to the 20 first longitudinal axis.

8. Packaging as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the second portion comprises a first end, a second opposed end, and a pair of spaced apart side portions extending therebetween, and in which the second portion comprises at 25 least one predefined fold extending between the side portions thereof.

9. Packaging as claimed in claim 8, in which the second portion defines a second longitudinal axis extending between the first and second ends thereof, and in which the at least one predefined fold extends substantially perpendicular to the 30 second longitudinal axis.07 01 2510. Packaging as claimed in any one of claims 4 to 9, in which the at least one predefined fold is located substantially centrally between the first and second ends of the respective top and / or second portion. 5 11. Packaging as claimed in any preceding claim, in which the length of the first portion and / or second portion and / or body section in the second collapsed configuration is less than or equal to half the length of the respective first portion and / or second portion and / or body section in the first expanded configuration. 10 12. Packaging as claimed in any preceding claim, in which in the first expanded configuration, the first portion comprises a top section, a first and a second opposed end portion upstanding therefrom at or adjacent the first and second ends of the first portion, and a pair of spaced apart side portion members upstanding therefrom at or adjacent the first and second side portions of the first 15 portion, in which a first recess is defined between the top section, the first and second end portions, and the pair of spaced apart side portion members, and in which the first recess is configured in use to receive at least the first edge of the body section. 20 13. Packaging as claimed in claim 12, in which at least one of the pair of end portions and / or pair of ends of the first portion provide an abutment surface on an inner surface thereof configured in use to abut the body section of the packaging in the first expanded configuration. 25 14. Packaging as claimed in any preceding, in which the second portion comprises a bottom section, a first and a second opposed end portion upstanding therefrom at or adjacent the first and second ends of the second portion, and a pair of spaced apart side portion members upstanding therefrom at or adjacent the first and second side portions of the second portion, in which a second recess is defined 30 between the bottom section, the first and second end portions and the pair of spaced apart side portion members, and in which the second recess is configured in use to receive at least the second edge of the body section.

15. Packaging as claimed in claim 14, in which at least one of the pair of end portions and / or pairof endsof the second portion provide an abutment surface on an inner surface thereof configured in use to abut the body section of the packaging in the 5 first expanded configuration.

16. Packaging as claimed in any preceding claim, in which of the at least first and second body portions provides a portion of the first edge of the body section, and10 a portion of the second edge of the body section.07 01 2517. Packaging as claimed in claims 16, in which in the first expanded configurations, 15 the first portion and / or second portion are configured in use to receive and retainat least a portion of the at least first and second body portions mounted relative to each other to provide the continuous side portions of the body section.

18. Packaging as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 179, in which the packaging is 20 composed of cardboard material.

19. A method for storing and transporting an item, the method comprising: obtaining packaging as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 18; placing the body section in the first expanded position;25 placing the second portion in the first expanded position and inserting orpositioning at least the second edge of the body section into or onto the second portion;inserting an item into a cavity defined between the body section and the second portion; and30 placing the first portion in the first expanded position and inserting orpositioning at least the first edge of the body section into the first portion.07 01 2520. A method as claimed in claim 19, further comprising:removing the first portion from contact with the body section;placing the first portion in the second collapsed position;removing the item from the cavity defined between the body section and the5 second portion;removing the second portion from contact with the body section;placing the second portion in the second collapsed position; andplacing the body section in the second collapsed position; optionally further comprising:10 stacking the first portion, second portion and body section, in their respectivesecond collapsed configurations, together; andsecuring the stacked first portion, second portion and body section in position using a fastener configured in use to prevent unintentional separation of the stacked first portion, second portion and body section.1521. A method as claimed in either of claims 19 and 20, further comprising inserting the first portion, second portion and body section in their respective second collapsed configurations into a housing, and optionally further comprising:reusing the packaging for storage and transportation of a further item.2022. A method as claimed in any one of claims 19 to 21, in which the step of placing the body section in the second collapsed position comprises dismounting a first body portion from a second body portion of the body section.25

Images