Resizable boxes

Abstract

The present invention relates to a box (10) having a variable box volume and / or box shape. The box comprises four box side walls (10a) and one box base (10b), each having first, second, third, and fourth elements (1, 2, 3, 4). Each element has two side walls (1a, 1b; 2a, 2b; 3a, 3b; 4a, 4b) and a base (1c, 2c, 3c, 4c), and each element is connected to two adjacent elements to form corners of the box. The box base (10b) is formed by at least partial overlapping of the bases (1c, 2c, 3c, 4c) of all elements, and each box side wall (10a) is formed by the side wall of one element and the side wall of an adjacent element (1b, 2a; 2b, 3a; 3b, 4a; 4b, 1a) such that the side walls are pressed into each other. The side walls of the elements that are pushed into each other can move back and forth relative to each other in the longitudinal direction of the side walls (x; y) between a minimum and a maximum overlap position, and the box volume and / or shape can be changed by changing the length (L1, L2) of any two opposing box side walls (10a), or of any two opposing box side walls and then of the other two opposing side walls. Each box side wall is formed by a side wall (1a; 1b; 3a; 4a) with longitudinal guides and by a side wall (2a; 2b; 3b; 4b) without longitudinal guides, so that the side wall without longitudinal guides can be received in and held within the longitudinal guides (9a) of the side wall with longitudinal guides, allowing it to move back and forth.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The invention relates to a box designed as a multibody system with variable box volume and / or box shape, to a closable box with variable box volume and / or box shape and to a kit of parts for each box according to the corresponding independent claims. [Background technology]

[0002] Boxes for transporting parcels or storing objects are generally known in a myriad of sizes and designs. One problem that arises, particularly during shipping, is that in most cases the box is only partially filled, with the remainder being empty space or filled with filler material. Software solutions exist for optimally filling large spaces, such as containers, with parcels to be shipped, so that the entire space of the container is filled with parcels of various sizes and shapes. However, such solutions only partially optimize the required space; the content volume and fill level of each individual parcel are unknown, and therefore optimization in this respect is not possible. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0003] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a solution by which the box can be optimized in terms of filling level and occupied space. [Means for solving the problem]

[0004] This objective is achieved in a first aspect of the present invention using a box having a variable box volume and / or box shape. The box has four box sidewalls and a box base and is configured as a multibody system. It comprises first, second, third, and fourth elements, each having two sidewalls and a base and connected to two adjacent elements, thus forming a corner of the box. The box base is formed by at least partially overlapping the bases of all elements. The sidewalls of each box are formed by the sidewalls of one element and the sidewalls of an adjacent element such that the sidewalls are forced into each other. The sidewalls of the elements that are forced into each other can be shifted back and forth relative to each other along the length of the sidewalls between a minimum overlap position and a maximum overlap position. The change in box volume and / or box shape is achieved by changing the length of any two opposing box sidewalls, or by changing the length of any two opposing box sidewalls and then changing the length of the other two opposing box sidewalls. Each box side wall is formed by a side wall with a longitudinal guide and a side wall without a longitudinal guide, so that the side wall without a longitudinal guide can be accommodated in the longitudinal guide of the side wall with a longitudinal guide, is held there, and can be shifted back and forth.

[0005] A second aspect of the present invention relates to a closable box having a variable box volume and / or box shape, comprising a first box according to the first aspect of the present invention for storing objects and a second box according to the first aspect of the present invention, the second box being provided as a lid for the first box, the volume and / or shape of the second box being adaptable to the volume and / or shape of the first box such that the second box can slide over the first box, and thus the second box being provided as a lid closes the first box.

[0006] A third aspect of the invention relates to a kit of parts for assembling a box according to the first aspect of the invention or for assembling a closable box according to the second aspect of the invention.

[0007] The box according to the present invention has a variable volume, allowing its size to be adapted to the intended contents. Especially when the box is used for shipping, the size of the box can be adjusted by the sender himself, who is the only person who influences the contents of the box, thus creating as little empty space as possible within the box. This optimizes the space requirements of the box. Furthermore, saving filler material, which is often used to fill empty spaces within the box to prevent the contents from moving around and being damaged, is advantageous especially when the box is used for transportation. This also saves weight, which improves the ecological balance.

[0008] The adaptability of the box is also shown by its variable shape. This means that the box can adapt to the spatial conditions outside the box, where, for example, the volume remains the same depending on the contents. In other words, the box according to the invention can be configured so that only its volume changes and its shape remains the same, or only its shape changes and its volume remains the same, or its shape and volume change. This makes the box particularly suitable for storing objects, for example in the home, since it can be adapted to further objects and / or to the dimensions of the storage space provided for this purpose.

[0009] A further advantage of the second aspect of the invention is that the box can be closed using a similarly changeable lid that can be adapted to a selected box shape and a selected box volume. Thus, the box can be easily closed after being filled to a desired shape. Closable boxes are therefore well suited as shipping boxes.

[0010] A further advantage of the boxes according to the first and second aspects of the invention is that the elements have a constant weight, so that the volume can be increased without increasing the weight.

[0011] Because the box is designed as a multi-body system and consists of elements (individual bodies), it can advantageously also be sold as a kit of parts for the individual elements, significantly saving space during storage and transportation. In addition, if an element is damaged during transportation, for example, only the individual element can be replaced. This means that the entire box does not have to be replaced, which improves the ecological balance.

[0012] The box according to the invention is preferably made from plastic, and the individual elements of the box are preferably one piece. Advantageously, plastic boxes are reusable, resulting in less waste. Advantageously, if the box is made from one piece, it can be manufactured more cheaply using known processes, such as injection molding. It is preferred if the box is made from plastic recovered, for example, from the ocean, which contributes to cleaning up the environment.

[0013] Further embodiments, advantages and applications of the invention are evident from the dependent claims and from the following description with reference to the figures. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0014] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view of a box according to the invention in a configuration using minimal volume; [Figure 2] 1 is a perspective view of a box according to the invention in a configuration with maximum volume; [Figure 3] 2 is a perspective view of the box according to the invention from FIG. 1 in an exploded view with individual elements. [Figure 4] 3 is a top view of the box base of the box according to the invention in a configuration with maximum volume from FIG. 2. FIG. [Figure 5] 4 is a perspective view of the box according to the invention from FIG. 3 in an exploded view with the individual elements shown inversely to that of FIG. 3 to show the box base. [Figure 6] 10 is a top view of an element of a box according to a further embodiment in an unfolded state. FIG. [Figure 7] 1 is a perspective view of a box according to the invention having elements for fastening the side walls to one another; [Figure 8] 10A and 10B are perspective views of a further embodiment of an element of a box according to the invention; [Figure 9] 10A and 10B are perspective views of a further embodiment of an element of a box according to the invention; [Figure 10] FIG. 9 is a perspective view of detail A from FIG. 8. [Figure 11] FIG. 10 is a top view of detail B from FIG. 9. [Figure 12] 10 is a perspective view of an element of a box according to the invention using an alternative element for fastening the side walls together; FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 9 is a top view of detail A from FIG. 8. [Figure 14] 1 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a box according to the invention; [Figure 15] 1 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a box according to the invention; [Figure 16] 10 is a perspective view of a further embodiment of a box according to the invention using insertable side walls; FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0015] A "multibody system" is understood in this specification as a mechanical system of individual bodies connected together by joints. The joints themselves can be part of the individual bodies. An "individual body" is hereinafter referred to as an "element". A joint as used in this specification is a so-called linear joint, which in the present context is formed by two side walls that respectively form a box side wall, one side wall being retractable into the other side wall and being held therein so as to be shiftable back and forth. A hinge function is understood as the displacement of the side walls relative to each other to change the length of the box side wall.

[0016] In this context, a clip fastener includes any fastener that functions by snapping one fastening element onto another, including click fasteners, snap fasteners, and latch fasteners.

[0017] In this context, the terms "inside" and "outside" refer to the interior of a box or to the perimeter of a box. So, for example, "inwards" means toward or toward the inside of the box, and "outwards" means toward or toward the perimeter of the box.

[0018] 1 and 2 show perspective views of a box 10 according to the present invention in its minimum and maximum volume configurations, respectively. The box 10 has four box side walls 10a and one box base 10b. The box is designed as a multibody system. As can be seen from the combined views of FIGS. 1 and 2, the internal volume and / or shape of the box can be varied, which is made possible by the interaction between the box's elements. The box is preferably made from plastic, in particular from a rigid plastic material to ensure high stability. The thickness of the box walls is preferably at least 3 to 4 mm.

[0019] In this example, the box has a rectangular parallelepiped shape, but it could also be a cube shape, which would be achieved by making the side walls of the element the same length.

[0020] FIG. 2 shows that a box 10 is formed from a first element 1, a second element 2, a third element 3, and a fourth element 4.

[0021] The elements of the box interact with each other to achieve the intended volume or shape adjustment. Each element has two degrees of freedom, which are marked x and y in the figures. The wall lengths of the element's side walls also refer to these directions. The box side walls are formed by the element's side walls, each of which engages with an adjacent side wall. This will now be explained in more detail with respect to FIG. 3.

[0022] FIG. 3 shows a perspective view of the box according to the invention of FIG. 1 or 2 in an exploded view with a first element 1, a second element 2, a third element 3, and a fourth element 4. Each element has a first side wall 1a, 2a, 3a, 4a, a second side wall 1b, 2b, 3b, 4b, and a base 1c, 2c, 3c, 4c. To form the box, each element can be connected to two adjacent elements, so that when the elements are connected, each element forms a corner of the box. In the connected state of the elements, each box side wall 10a is formed by the first side wall of one of the elements and the second side wall of the adjacent element, i.e., 1a, 4b; 1b, 2a; 2b, 3a; 3b, 4a. In other words, the two side walls form a linear joint. This results in four linear joints 11a (Figure 2), each of which allows relative movement of each cooperating sidewall in only one degree of freedom, i.e., in either the X or Y direction. The first sidewall of one element and the second sidewall of the adjacent element can move back and forth relative to each other in the longitudinal direction of the sidewalls between a minimum overlap position and a maximum overlap position. Thus, the first sidewall 1a of the first element 1 is connected to the second sidewall 4b of the fourth element, the second sidewall 1b of the first element 1 is connected to the first sidewall 2a of the second element 2, the second sidewall 2b of the second element 2 is connected to the first sidewall 3a of the third element, and the second sidewall 3b of the third element 3 is connected to the first sidewall 4a of the fourth element 4. The box base 10b is formed by at least partially overlapping the bases 1c, 2c, 3c, 4c of all elements, which can be seen in Figures 1, 2 and 4. The volume of the box or the shape of the box can be changed by relatively displacing the side walls of at least two opposing box side walls (linear joints).

[0023] In this embodiment, the volume of the box is determined by the relative displacement of two opposing box side walls 1a-4b, 2b-3a; 1b-2a, 3b-4a from the maximum overlap position to the minimum overlap position, and vice versa, between the configuration with the smallest box volume and the configuration with the largest box volume, and then by the relative displacement of the other two opposing box side walls 1b-2a, 3b-4a; 1a-4b, 2b-3a from the maximum overlap position to the minimum overlap position. In this example, a rectangular parallelepiped shape is obtained. Naturally, intermediate positions of side wall overlap are also possible, and thus any configuration between the configurations with the smallest and largest box volumes can be set without steps. In particular, as mentioned above, it is possible to change not only the volume of the box but also the shape of the box. The shape of the box can only be changed in intermediate positions between the configuration with the smallest box volume and the configuration with the largest box volume, since these extreme positions depend on the shapes of the individual elements. In this example, a rectangular box can be transformed into a cubic box at an intermediate position, for example, by adjusting the lengths of two opposing box sidewalls to match the lengths of two other opposing box sidewalls. The change in box volume is described below as an example based on a configuration with a minimum box volume. To increase the box volume, the box must first expand in the x- or y-direction by pulling the box sidewalls. For example, if box sidewall 4a / 3b is pulled in the y-direction, the lengths of two box sidewalls 1a / 4b and 2b / 3a increase. Generally speaking, the volume and / or shape of the box is achieved by pulling / pushing the box sidewalls, or successively pulling / pushing a box sidewall and an additional box sidewall perpendicular to it.

[0024] In other words, not only the volume of the box but also its shape can be changed. For example, between configurations with the minimum and maximum box volumes, the volume of the box can be changed by, for example, changing the length of the box side walls, so that the box remains a rectangular parallelepiped, even though its volume changes. On the other hand, if the length of the box side walls is changed accordingly, the shape can be changed by, for example, changing the box from a rectangular parallelepiped with volume V1 to a cube with volume V1. Finally, it is natural that both the shape and the box volume can be changed. The shape and / or box volume can be changed continuously (i.e., steplessly) between the configuration with the minimum box volume and the configuration with the maximum box volume, and the shape can be changed steplessly between a rectangular parallelepiped and a cube. These possibilities demonstrate the high flexibility of the box and its adaptability to the contents and the available storage space. Each box side wall is formed by side walls 1a, 1b, 3a, 4a having longitudinal guides and side walls 2a, 2b, 3b, 4b without longitudinal guides, and the side walls without longitudinal guides are accommodated in longitudinal guides 9a of the side walls having longitudinal guides and can be held therein so as to be shiftable back and forth.

[0025] In one variant of the box (not shown), the side walls of the elements are designed so that exactly one side wall of every element is equipped with a longitudinal guide. In Figure 3, side wall 1b of the first element can be exchanged for side wall 2a of the second element.

[0026] However, the second variant shown in Figure 3 is preferred. In this variant, both side walls 1a, 1b of the first element have longitudinal guides 9a. Neither side wall 2a, 2b of the second element 2 has a longitudinal guide. In each case, one side wall 3a, 4a of the third element 3 or the fourth element 4 has a longitudinal guide 9a, and the other side wall 3b, 4b of the third element 3 or the fourth element 4 has no longitudinal guide.

[0027] The longitudinal guides 9a of the side walls are preferably formed by L-shaped members that open toward the box base 10b and are located at the upper end of each side wall 1a, 1b, 3a, 4a that has a longitudinal guide. In FIG. 3, the L-shaped members are best seen at reference 9a of element 4. The L-shaped members preferably extend continuously along substantially the entire length of the side wall that has a longitudinal guide. However, it is also possible for the L-shaped members to comprise several L-shaped sections distributed along the length of the side wall. The upper end 9b of each side wall without a longitudinal guide can be received in a cavity between the L-shaped member or L-shaped member section and the side wall that has a longitudinal guide, and can be held there so that it can be displaced back and forth. It is preferable if the upper end 9b of the side wall without a longitudinal guide is thinner than the side wall without a longitudinal guide in the area received in the cavity and has a step 9c toward the inside of the box, as shown by way of example in FIG. 3 as the third element 3. This has the advantage of saving material and allows the user to intuitively easily recognize what needs to be inserted into each other. In addition, the box side walls can be designed as an entirely smooth surface without steps, if the L-shaped leg of the longitudinal guide parallel to one side wall is flush with the surface of the other cooperating side wall. However, the longitudinal guides can also be designed for various alternative plug-in connections. They can also be located at other points along the side walls. However, the configuration at the top end is preferred, as this provides relatively high stability and avoids the possibility of a gap between two adjacent side walls.

[0028] Both side walls of each box preferably have first limiting elements 5a, 5b, respectively. When the minimum overlap position is reached, the first limiting elements engage with each other so that the side walls cannot be pulled apart further. In a preferred embodiment, the first limiting elements are designed as protrusions that face each other and overlap longitudinally. The protrusion 5a of the side wall with a longitudinal guide faces the inside of the box, while the protrusion 5b of the side wall without a longitudinal guide faces the outside of the box. When the two side walls are inserted into each other for the first time, the protrusion 5b of the side wall without a longitudinal guide must overcome the protrusion 5a of the side wall with a longitudinal guide. For this purpose, the protrusions are designed without steps toward the ends of the corresponding side panels, so that they can easily slide over each other and engage after reaching their highest point. During this process, the side wall without a longitudinal guide bends slightly toward the inside of the box by snapping its protrusion 5b toward the side wall with a longitudinal guide, creating tension that is released after the protrusion reaches its highest point. On this side, the protrusions each have a step so that the side walls abut each other when pulled and cannot be pulled apart further. In other words, they have a sawtooth shape in this embodiment. However, to overcome the step of the protrusion of the cooperating side wall with a longitudinal guide, the user can slightly push each side wall without a longitudinal guide toward the inside of the box to completely separate the box elements. Advantageously, the use of the protrusions makes the box safer and prevents it from being accidentally disassembled into its individual parts, for example, when only adjusting the box volume or shape is desired. Due to the special design and location of the protrusions, the user must take extra careful steps to disassemble the box into its individual parts.

[0029] Alternatively or additionally, the first limiting elements can be arranged on the L-shaped members of the longitudinal guides 9a or on the upper ends 9b of the side walls, in which case they are designed as described above, with one protrusion on the upper end of one side wall extending vertically upwards and a cooperating protrusion on the L-shaped member of the longitudinal guide 9a of the other side wall extending vertically downwards and arranged on the rail formed by the L-shaped members.

[0030] Figure 4 shows the arrangement of the bases of the elements. The bases 1c, 2c, 3c, and 4c of the elements are preferably configured and designed so that they overlap more or less during relative shifting of the side walls in a given sequence, depending on the degree of shift, so that the box base comprises four base layers in at least some areas. The maximum overlap of the bases is achieved in the configuration with the smallest box volume (Figure 1), in which all four bases are arranged substantially stacked on top of each other. The minimum overlap of the bases is present in the configuration with the largest box volume, shown in Figure 2.

[0031] The aforementioned predetermined order of the bases is preferably selected so that the base of the second element, i.e., the element 2 having two side walls without longitudinal guides, is placed at the top in the configuration with the smallest box volume and represents the inside of the box base in the preferred configuration of the box, while the base of the first element 1, i.e., the element having two side walls with longitudinal guides, is configured in the base of the configuration with the smallest box volume and represents the outside of the base plate.

[0032] Preferably, the configuration with the smallest box volume, i.e. with the largest overlap of the bases, is achieved when at least one of the bases abuts one of the side walls of another element.

[0033] The base design is described in more detail below and can best be seen by looking at Figures 3 and 4 together. Essentially, the bases of the elements can be inserted into each other according to the same principle as the side walls, with base guides provided for them, similar to the longitudinal guides for the side walls, and linear joints being used here as well. This significantly increases the stability of the box. However, the base can also be designed without base guides, and simply overlap without interlocking when the box is assembled. Since boxes according to the present invention are preferably made from rigid plastic, the base can be made thicker, for example, and stability is still provided even without base guides. This design without base guides is possible for configurations with the largest box volume, for example, for small boxes with end lengths in the range of 20 or 30 cm. However, the version with base guides is preferred.

[0034] In each case, two adjacent bases are pressed into each other to form a first pair of bases 1c, 4c and a second pair of bases 2c, 3c. Each base has a first end (references 8a, 8b in FIG. 3) and a second end (references 8c, 8d in FIG. 3) arranged perpendicularly thereto. The first ends of the bases are parallel to each other, and the second ends of the bases are parallel to each other. One base 1c, 3c of each pair has a first base guide 8a at its first end, while the other base 2c, 4c does not have a base guide at its first end. The bases 1c, 3c with first base guides are not adjacent, and the first ends of the bases 2c, 4c without base guides can be received in the base guide 8a of one of the bases with first base guides and can slide back and forth therein. In FIG. 3, the fourth element is thus inserted into the first element by simultaneously inserting the end 9b of the side wall of the fourth element into the longitudinal guide of the side wall of the first element and the base end 8b of the fourth element into the base guide 8a of the first element. In this way, base 4c is positioned above base 1c. This procedure is similar to inserting a second element into a third element. Two pairs of bases are thus formed. In a further step, the pairs of bases then need to be connected together.

[0035] For this purpose, the base 4c of the first base pair, which does not have a first base guide, has a second base guide 8c on its second end, and the base 3c of the second base pair, which has a first base guide, is held there by its second end 8d in the second base guide 8c so that it can be displaced back and forth. Consequently, the base 2c of the second base pair does not have either a first or second base guide. In this way, the base pairs are connected to each other to form a linear joint in the broad sense. Naturally, the side walls are also connected in a manner similar to that described above for connecting elements to form a base pair. Thus, when the end 8d of the base 3c is inserted into the base guide 8c of the base 4c, the end 9b of the side wall of the third element is simultaneously inserted into the longitudinal guide 9a of the side wall of the fourth element, and the end 9b of the side wall of the second element is simultaneously inserted into the longitudinal guide 9a of the side wall of the first element.

[0036] 4 shows that base pair 1c / 4c is located below base pair 2c / 3c. Base 2c, which belongs to the second base pair without a first base guide and a second base guide, is the top base when the bases are stacked, and its adjacent base 1c of the first base pair is the bottom base.

[0037] As mentioned above, the base guides 8a, 8c are preferably designed similarly to the longitudinal guides of the side walls. The first base guide 8a and the second base guide 8c are each designed as an L-shaped member that opens laterally toward the opposite side wall of the associated element (see 8c in FIG. 3). The first end 8b, which is received in the first base guide 8a, is thinner than the rest of the base and has a stepped transition toward the inside of the box. The second end 8d, which is received in the second base guide 8c, is thinner than the rest of the base 3c and has a stepped transition toward the inside of the box. This design is similar to the thinner end of a side wall that does not have a longitudinal guide.

[0038] FIG. 5 shows a perspective view of the box according to the invention from FIG. 3 in an exploded view with the individual elements shown inversely to show the base of the box. The element 2 with the uppermost base 2c is preferably designed so that the uppermost base 2c rests on the first base guide 8a of the element 1 with the lowermost base 1c. It is preferable if the side wall of the element with the uppermost base 2c, perpendicular to the first base guide, has a spacer 7 below the uppermost base, which will rest on the lowermost base 1c. For this purpose, the base guide 8a of the first element has a gap 7a on the corresponding side wall 1b, into which the spacer 7 is received. This is advantageous as it increases the stability of the box.

[0039] Preferably, at least all side walls 2a, 2b, 3b, 4b that do not have longitudinal guides have a first reinforcing rib 6a on the outside. The first reinforcing rib can be vertical, horizontal, and / or diagonal. However, the design shown in Figure 5 is preferred. In that case, the reinforcing rib has a recess 6c in the form of a channel, which is intended to receive the protrusion 5a of the side wall of the other element of each of the aforementioned box side walls.

[0040] Preferably, the base 1c, 2c, 3c, 4c of the element also has a second reinforcing rib 6b on the outside or inside, which can also be a vertical reinforcing rib, and / or a horizontal reinforcing rib, and / or a diagonal reinforcing rib.

[0041] As mentioned above, the boxes according to the invention are preferably made from plastic, in particular from thermosetting plastic. The advantage is that such boxes can be reused much more frequently than similar cardboard boxes, although the manufacture of boxes according to the invention from cardboard is of course not excluded. In addition, thermosetting plastic boxes are strong.

[0042] Figure 6 shows a top view of elements of a box according to a further embodiment in an outwardly folded state, and Figure 7 shows a perspective view of the box according to the invention of Figure 2 with elements according to the embodiment of Figure 6. The reference numerals in the previous figures are not shown here for the sake of clarity, but they apply unchanged.

[0043] In contrast to Figure 5, which shows the first and second reinforcing ribs 6a, 6b on the outside of the box, in the embodiment shown in Figures 6 and 7 the reinforcing ribs are arranged on the inside of the box, but the configuration of the reinforcing ribs in Figure 5 or in Figures 6 and 7 could also be reversed.

[0044] In principle, this embodiment is characterized in that both side walls of each element can be folded relative to the base of each element. They can be folded from an upright position, forming a 90° angle with the base, or vice versa, to a folded-down position parallel to the base, in particular lying in one plane with the base. The upright position corresponds to the view of FIG. 7, i.e., it is the position in which the box can be used. The folded position corresponds, for example, to a preferred delivery position of the box components and has the advantage of saving space during delivery of the box, or generally during transportation of the box.

[0045] This embodiment of the box is also characterized by a simpler manufacturing process, since it is not necessary to provide complex moulds. Advantageously, the individual elements of the box are easy and inexpensive to manufacture, since they can be made in the folded state and therefore have a plate shape in this state, which is an important advantage, especially with regard to the intended use in logistics, where large quantities of elements are required.

[0046] In a preferred embodiment, each side wall is connected to the base of each element by at least one joint, in particular by at least one hinge joint, for folding. For this purpose, it is preferable if exactly one hinge joint is used, which comprises several hinges distributed over the entire length of the side wall. Advantageously, such a hinge joint is strong and allows the side wall to be folded as frequently as desired.

[0047] In a preferred embodiment, the box elements are made in one piece. This can be formed using known methods of plastic processing, such as injection molding. The advantage of this embodiment is that the elements are ready for use immediately after fabrication, and no additional steps are required to assemble them. These can be rigid elements, as described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5. Alternatively, the elements can be made in one piece, but the thickness of material at each edge between the sidewall and the base can be less than the thickness of the remaining wall or base. In other words, the joints used are so-called film joints. The edges or film joints are shown in FIG. 6 with a black strip 13. The strip is intended to indicate a surface with less material thickness, not a "line-shaped edge." This allows the sidewalls to be folded at these edges, according to the embodiment shown in FIGS. 6 and 7, despite the one-piece design. This has the advantage that no additional elements are required as joints between the sidewall and the base, since the thinner edge itself represents the joint.

[0048] In one embodiment, the box comprises fastening systems 12a-12c for the foldable side walls, which are provided to fasten the side walls of the elements to each other in an upright position. The fastening systems have the general advantage that, in relation to the use of the box, the side walls of the elements can be fastened to each other and, after use, the connection can be released for space-saving storage of the elements.

[0049] In the first embodiment, the fastening system is formed by at least two cooperating fastening elements 12b, 12c, with the first fastening element 12a, 12b positioned on one side wall and the second fastening element 12c positioned on the other side wall. It is preferred if the fastening elements together form a clip fastener and releasably snap into each other. In the illustrated embodiment, the first fastening element is designed as a tab with a latching protrusion 12b, and the second fastening element is designed as a wall hole 12c. The side walls are first connected to each other in an upright position. The side walls are designed so that their upper corners engage with each other to form flush shaft corners. Then, in the upright position, the tab 12a is folded so that it engages around the other side wall. Finally, the latching protrusion 12b is inserted into the wall hole 12c and locked into place. The latching protrusion also has a means for releasing the connection. The latching projection can be designed in various ways, whereby variants that are easy to manufacture are strongly preferred due to the large number of manufacturing units. The latching projection is shown here by way of example in the form of a knob that expands away from the tab relative to its diameter. The maximum diameter of the knob is slightly larger than the diameter of the wall hole 12c. A portion of the knob is partially separated from the rest of the knob by a gap 12d. When the knob is inserted into the wall hole, this portion of the knob is displaced from the edge of the wall hole towards the rest of the knob and springs back to its original position after insertion, thereby creating a press-fit connection of the knob within the wall hole. To release the connection, this procedure is reversed, in which a finger acts on the knob portion to push it out of the wall hole.

[0050] Other variations of the fastening system can include, for example, fastening to the inside of the side walls as described above. Alternatively, both side walls can each include a wall hole and a separate strap with two buttons can be used to connect them.

[0051] It is preferred if the wall hole area 12e is recessed in the side wall in the insertion direction of the latching projection and has the shape of a tab 12a, into which the tab 12a with the latching projection 12b rests in the latched state, resulting in a smooth, stepless outer surface of the side wall, which has the advantage of preventing the later assembled box from getting caught on other objects and at the same time optimizing the space requirements of the box.

[0052] In a second preferred embodiment shown in FIG. 12, the fastening system comprises a clip fastener with a first fastening element 18a and a second fastening element 18b (not visible, view of the back of the bridge 18a) that cooperate with each other. The first fastening element is a snap-fit ​​element 18a located on the exterior of one side wall in extension of the other side wall. In other words, the snap-fit ​​element extends perpendicular to the adjacent other side wall. The second fastening element is designed as a bridge 18b located on the exterior of the other side wall. The fastening element is designed and configured so that when the two side walls are upright in a position perpendicular to the base of the element, the snap-fit ​​element engages around the bridge. To release the connection, a depression or recess 18c is provided on the exterior of the other side wall, into which a user can insert a finger to lift the snap-fit ​​element from the bridge, thereby releasing the grip on the bridge. This embodiment has the advantage of requiring less material because there are no tabs like in the first embodiment.

[0053] In principle, the fastening system can be used for all embodiments of the elements in combination with all other varying features of these elements.

[0054] 8 and 9 each show a perspective view of a further embodiment of an element of a box according to the invention. In FIG. 8, element 3 is shown by way of example, and in FIG. 9, element 4 is shown by way of example (see FIG. 2). The two figures are intended to illustrate further features of the box according to the invention for the embodiment of the box element with foldable side walls, which will be described below. The feature of the foldable side walls has already been described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. The feature described below, in combination with all other variable features of these elements with foldable side walls, can in principle be used for all embodiments of the element. A feature is a stopper system that prevents the individual elements from separating from each other when the side walls are folded. This has the advantage that the folded box can be easily pulled without having to check whether the elements stay together. In relation to FIG. 5, the way in which the first limiting elements 5a, 5b prevent the elements from separating from each other in the upright state of the elements has already been described. Preventing separation of the elements from each other in the folded state is preferably achieved by second limiting elements located at the ends of each of the first and second base guides 8a, 8c that are remote from the perpendicular sidewalls of each element. The locations of these elements are indicated by circle A in FIG. 8 and circle B in FIG. 9 and also apply to other examples of boxes according to the present invention. These details will now be explained in more detail in the context of FIGS. 10 and 11. Note that the second limiting elements 16a, 16b can be used in addition to or as an alternative to the first limiting elements 5a, 5b. The advantage of using both systems is that a box according to the present invention in a configuration with maximum box volume is more stable when trying to pull the elements further apart because they are held together at several points on the sidewalls and base, making it easier to prevent separation of the elements. This configuration can be used for both collapsible and non-collapsible sidewalls.If only the first limiting elements 5a, 5b are used, the elements can be separated from each other without resistance in the folded state or more easily in the upright position of the side walls than if the second limiting elements are also used. If only the second limiting elements 16a, 16b are used, the side walls cannot be easily separated from each other regardless of whether they are folded or not, but they can be separated more easily than if the first limiting elements were also used. This configuration is preferred because, on the one hand, it saves material and, on the other hand, it reduces the complexity of production. It is also possible to use a combination of first limiting elements (in the side walls and / or in the L-shaped members of the longitudinal guides 9a or in the upper ends 9b of the side walls) and second limiting elements, in the sense that not all elements of the box have all limiting elements. A preferred "mixed configuration" is shown below.

[0055] Figure 10 shows a perspective view of detail A from Figure 8, and Figure 11 shows a top view of detail B from Figure 9. The second limiting elements 16a, 16b will be described in more detail below. In detail A, it can be seen that a stop 16a is provided in the first base guide 8a. The stop 16a is designed as a lateral protrusion on the vertical part of the L-section. In detail B, a pin 16b is shown, which extends substantially horizontally in the plane of each base from the base to its second base guide (end) 8b at an angle of 10° < alpha < 80°, preferably 20° < alpha < 70°, particularly preferably 30° < alpha < 60°. The pin points substantially away from the side wall perpendicular to the associated base guide.

[0056] An exemplary mixing configuration (with reference to FIG. 3) is as follows: Element 1: Vertically downwardly extending projections on both L-shaped members of the side wall longitudinal guide 9a and stopper 16a on the base guide 8a; Element 2: vertically upwardly extending projections on the upper ends of both side walls, and pin 16b on end 8b; Element 3: A vertically downwardly extending protrusion on the L-shaped member of the longitudinal guide 9a of the side wall 3a, a vertically upwardly extending protrusion on the upper end of the side wall 3b, a pin 16b at the end 8d, and a stopper 16a at the base guide 8a. Element 4: A vertically downwardly extending protrusion on the L-shaped member of the longitudinal guide 9a of the side wall 4a, a vertically upwardly extending protrusion on the upper end of the side wall 4b, a pin 16b on the end 8b, and a stopper 16a on the base guide 8c.

[0057] When end 8b or 8d is inserted into the associated base guide 8a or 8c, pin 16b can move freely along the vertical wall of the L-shaped member into which it is received as the volume and / or shape of the box according to the invention change. It is oriented in a direction that pulls the elements apart. As soon as the configuration with the maximum box volume is reached, pin 16b abuts stop 16a, thus preventing the two elements from separating from each other. The elements can be designed so that the pin is accessible from outside the base of the other element, so that by acting on the pin from outside the other base with a suitable tool, for example, the stop action can be canceled and the elements can be separated from each other.

[0058] Figure 12 shows a perspective view of an element of a box according to the invention, which uses the alternative element already mentioned for fastening the side walls to one another. It can also be seen in Figure 12 that element 4 (which is also an example for the other elements) has two positioning lugs 14 at the upper edge of its side wall 4a. The positioning lugs are intended to stably stack boxes according to the invention on top of one another. For this purpose, the elements have corresponding recesses at the lower edges of the side walls, into which in each case the positioning lugs of the box below are inserted.

[0059] FIG. 12 also shows two rails 17a, 17b, also marked 17 in detail view A of FIG. 10. The rails 17 are a feature of a further embodiment of the first and second base guides 8a, 8c. They serve to enhance the stability of the box according to the present invention and to better guide the bases within each other when changing the volume or shape of the box. The first rail 17a projects upward from the base and, when viewed from above, is not positioned below the horizontal leg of the L-shaped member of the associated base guide. The second rail 17b projects downward from the horizontal leg of the L-shaped member of the associated base guide. The rails are intended to cooperate with the modified ends 8b, 8d, which are shown in a side view (i.e., in the y-direction, see FIG. 9) in another view of detail view B from FIG. 9 in FIG. 13. As best seen in FIG. 8, four first and second rails are arranged along the ends. However, a different number of rails is also possible. This configuration has been shown to be significantly easier to make than a continuous rail, which is why it is preferred.

[0060] In this new embodiment, the previously mentioned ends of the element without base guides, i.e., ends 8b and 8d, have two additional base guides 19a, 19b compatible with rails 17a, 17b. The first additional base guide 19a is an elongated groove open at the base, and the second additional base guide 19b is an elongated groove open at the top and is located next to the first additional base guide. The modified first base guide 8a and the modified second base guide 8c cooperate with the corresponding modified ends 8b and 8d, respectively, with the first rail 17a being received in the first additional base guide 19a and the second rail 17b being received in the second additional base guide 19b.

[0061] 14 and 15 show perspective views of a further embodiment of a box according to the present invention. This embodiment differs from the other embodiments in that the side walls of the element can be folded inward. The principle of foldable side walls has been described with reference to FIG. 6 by way of example for outwardly foldable side walls. The hinges can also be designed as film joints or hinge joints for inwardly foldable side walls, as already mentioned. One difference in this embodiment is that the side walls of the element can be partially folded inward in the assembled state of the box, in a configuration with minimal box volume. This has the advantage that the space occupied by the box during stowage can be reduced without the need to disassemble the box. FIG. 14 shows the box 10 in a configuration with minimal volume and two side walls folded inward, while FIG. 15 shows the box from FIG. 14 with the other two box side walls also folded. For this purpose, each side wall has a hinge at a certain height 20 from the base, which divides each side wall into a lower wall section 21a firmly connected to the base and a foldable upper wall section 21b. Here, by way of example, two first opposing box side walls are placed adjacent to each other, and the other two box side walls are placed adjacent to each other on top of the first box side wall. All box side walls are substantially parallel to the box base. For this purpose, the hinge height 20 of each side wall is selected so that all of the upper wall sections fold in a predetermined order to form a sandwich configuration when folded inward. In other words, at least some side walls have different hinge heights 20. It can be seen in FIG. 14 that the hinge of the folded side wall (left) is lower than the hinge of the still-standing box side wall (right). The height difference depends on the number of side walls being folded and the overall thickness. In this example, the height 20 is the same for corresponding sidewalls on opposing box sidewalls. The height 20 is then considered for sidewalls on box sidewalls. In this configuration with the smallest box volume, the box sidewalls have the largest overlap of corresponding sidewalls.To allow for inward folding, the height 20 of the outer sidewall 22b is greater than that of the inner sidewall 22a, so that the outer sidewall can rest on top of the inner sidewall (see Figure 14).

[0062] Of course, other overlapping options can be considered when folding inward. For example, all box side walls could be placed on top of each other rather than in the same plane. In this case, the heights 20 of all side walls would be different. Such a configuration would make sense if the wall heights of the box side walls were selected so that opposing box side walls overlap when folded.

[0063] In this embodiment of the box, the longitudinal guides 9a of the side walls having longitudinal guides point outward and are attached to the inner side of each box side wall so that the longitudinal guides do not abut against the upper edge 9b of the other cooperating side wall when the box is folded inward. This can be seen in FIG. 14. In contrast, for example, in the embodiment shown in FIG. 3, in which the longitudinal guide 9a of side wall 4a faces inward, the edge 9b of side wall 3b at the longitudinal guide 9a of side wall 4c would abut against the upper inside of side wall 4c during folding, preventing folding. However, this embodiment could also be modified for the implementation of the boxes according to FIGS. 14 and 15 by providing an outward-pointing longitudinal guide 9a on side wall 3b, but with side wall 4a having an edge 9a. Thus, side wall 3b corresponds to side wall 22a in FIG. 14, and side wall 4a corresponds to side wall 22b. This applies mutatis mutandis to the other side walls of the box according to FIG. 3.

[0064] Preferably, the box side walls each have a fastening element, such as a clip fastening mechanism, to hold them in the inwardly folded position.

[0065] FIG. 16 shows a perspective view of a further embodiment of a box according to the present invention with insertable side walls. This embodiment is particularly suitable for boxes according to FIGS. 14 and 15, since the side walls are not folded at the ends between the base and the side walls. This means that a vertical bridge 23 can be provided for each side wall at its end at each base, which is firmly connected to the base and can accommodate the side wall. For this purpose, each side wall can have a downwardly extending hook 24, which can be received in the bridge and snapped into it, for example. In the assembled state, the bridge is part of the side wall. FIG. 16 shows an exemplary side wall with three or four snap fasteners, which are exemplarily designed herein like backpack fasteners. In one embodiment, only a single snap fastener is provided when the box is first assembled. In another embodiment, a means for releasing the plug-in connection can be provided.

[0066] As mentioned at the beginning, the present invention also relates to a closable box having a variable box volume and / or box shape. In other words, the closable box according to the present invention is a combination of two boxes according to the first aspect of the present invention. It comprises a first box for storing objects and a second corresponding box, the second box serving as a lid for the first box. Additional fastening means, such as adhesive tape, can be provided to hold the lid on the box. This also ensures that the box does not automatically unfold during transportation, for example, due to vibration or tilting.

[0067] The box according to the first aspect of the invention or the sealable box according to the second aspect of the invention can preferably be supplied as a kit of parts. In this case, all elements 1, 2, 3, and 4 are supplied in the form shown in FIG. 3 and FIG. 5, which can be assembled into the box by the user. The kit of parts for the closable box according to the second aspect of the invention obviously includes two versions of each of the four elements 1, 2, 3, and 4, since the only difference here is the lid, which is structurally identical to the box, except that this element is somewhat larger and therefore also slidable on the box in a configuration with minimal box volume. In other words, the size of the lid is, of course, always adapted to the dimensions of the box, since it needs to enclose the box. This is taken into account in the corresponding kit of parts.

[0068] It is preferred if the box or sealable box according to the invention is provided in various versions for a covered size range, i.e. for a maximum and minimum adjustable box volume. In other words, the dimensions of the side walls of the element can be varied. Compared to conventional solutions, a large volume range can be covered with just a few versions of the box, so fewer different versions of the box are required for this.

[0069] While preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described in this application, it should be clearly understood that the present invention is not limited to these and may be embodied in other ways within the scope of the appended claims. In this regard, terms such as "preferred," "particularly," and "advantageous" used in this description refer to optional, exemplary embodiments only. [Explanation of symbols]

[0070] 1. First Element 1a to 4a First side wall 1b~4b Second side wall 1c~4c bass 2. Second Element 3. The Third Element 4 The Fourth Element 5a, 5b First limiting factor 6a First reinforcing rib 6b Second reinforcing rib 6c Interrupt section 7 spacers 7a Gap 8a First end 8b First end 8c Second end 8d Second end 9a Longitudinal guide 9b Upper end without longitudinal guide 9c stage 10 boxes 10a Box sidewall 10b Box Base 11a Linear joint 12a Fixed element 12b Fixed element 12c fixed element 12e area 13 Black Belt 14 Positioning protrusion 16a Second limiting factor 16b Second limiting factor 17a First Rail 17b Second Rail 18a First fixing element 18b Secondary fixing element 18c recess 19a Further Bass Guide 19b Further Bass Guide 20 Constant Height 21a Lower Wall Section 21b Upper Wall Section 22a Inner sidewall 22b Outer sidewall 23 Vertical Bridge 24 Hook

Claims

1. A box (10) having a variable box volume and / or box shape, said box being able to change shape between a configuration with a minimum box volume and a configuration with a maximum box volume, and vice versa, in particular said box being made from plastic and having four side walls (10a) and one box base (10b), said box being configured as a multibody system element comprising first, second, third and fourth elements (1, 2, 3, 4), each element being Each element has two side walls (1a, 1b; 2a, 2b; 3a, 3b; 4a, 4b) and one base (1c, 2c, 3c, 4c), and each element is connected to two adjacent elements to form corners of the box, and the box base (10b) is formed by at least partially overlapping the bases (1c, 2c, 3c, 4c) of all elements, and each box side wall (10a) is connected to the side wall of one element and the side wall (1b, 2a; 2b, 3a; 3b) of an adjacent element. , 4a; 4b, 1a), these side walls are formed to be pressed into each other, and the side walls of the pressed-in elements can be shifted back and forth relative to each other in the longitudinal direction (x; y) of the side walls between a minimum overlap position and a maximum overlap position, and the change in box volume and / or box shape is achieved by changing the length (L1; L2) of any two opposing box side walls (10a) or the length (L1; L2) of any two opposing box side walls, and then This is achieved by changing the lengths (L1; L2) of the other two opposing box side walls, each box side wall being formed by a side wall (1a; 1b; 3a; 4a) having a longitudinal guide and a side wall (2a; 2b; 3b; 4b) not having a longitudinal guide, so that the side wall without a longitudinal guide can be accommodated in the longitudinal guide (9a) of the side wall having a longitudinal guide, held therein, and can be shifted back and forth, box (10).

2. - only one side wall of all elements is provided with a longitudinal guide, or - both side walls (1a, 1b) of said first element (1) have longitudinal guides (9a); - none of the side walls (2a, 2b) of the second element (2) has a longitudinal guide; A box according to claim 1, in which in each case one side wall (3a) of the third element (3) and one side wall (4a) of the fourth element (4) have a longitudinal guide (9a), and in each case the other side wall (3b) of the third element (3) and the other side wall (4b) of the fourth element (4) do not have a longitudinal guide.

3. the longitudinal guide (9a) is an L-shaped member that opens towards the box base (10b) and is located at the upper end of the side walls (1a, 1b, 3a, 4a) that have longitudinal guides; the L-shaped member extends continuously along substantially the entire length of the side wall having a longitudinal guide; or the elbow comprises a plurality of elbow sections distributed along the length of the side wall; 3. A box according to claim 1 or 2, wherein each side wall (2a; 2b; 3b; 4b) without longitudinal guides has its upper end (9b) received in a cavity between the L-shaped member or L-shaped member section and each side wall with longitudinal guides and is held therein so as to be shiftable back and forth, in particular the upper end (9b) of the side wall without longitudinal guides being thinner in the receiving area of ​​the cavity than the rest of the side wall without longitudinal guides and having a step (9c) towards the inside of the box.

4. in each case, two adjacent bases (1c, 4c; 2c, 3c) are pressed together to form a first pair of bases and a second pair of bases, each base (1c, 2c, 3c, 4c) having a first end and a second end arranged at right angles thereto, the first ends of the bases being parallel, in each case, one base (1c, 3c) of each pair of bases has a first base guide (8a) at its first end, and in each case, the other base (2c, 4c) of each pair of bases does not have a base guide at its first end, the bases (1c, 3c) having a first base guide are not adjacent, and in each case, the first end of the base (2c, 4c) that does not have a base guide is received in the first base guide (8a) of one of the bases having a first base guide and is held therein so as to be able to shift back and forth, The base (4c) of the first base pair that does not have a first base guide has a second base guide (8c) at a second end, and the base (3c) of the second base pair that has a first base guide has a second end (8d) that does not have a base guide received in the second base guide (8c) and held therein so as to be shiftable back and forth; 4. A box according to any one of claims 1 to 3, whereby there is obtained only one base (2c) belonging to the second pair of bases, without a first base guide and without a second base guide.

5. 5. The box according to claim 4, wherein the base (2c) associated with the second pair of bases that does not have the first and second base guides is the uppermost base when the bases overlap, and the base (1c) of the first pair of bases adjacent thereto is the lowermost base, and the element (2) having the uppermost base (2c) is configured so that the uppermost base (2c) sits on the first base guide (8a) of the element (1) having the lowermost base (1c), and in particular, the side wall of the element having the uppermost base (2c) perpendicular to the first base guide has a spacer (7) below the uppermost base and is configured to sit on the lowermost base (1c).

6. In each case, two adjacent bases (1c, 4c; 2c, 3c) are pressed together to form a first pair of bases and a second pair of bases, each base (1c, 2c, 3c, 4c) having a first end and a second end arranged perpendicular thereto, the first ends of the bases being parallel, and in each case, one base (1c, 3c) of each pair of bases has at its first end a first base guide (8a) having at least one first and at least one second rail (17a, 17b). , and in each case the other base (2c, 4c) of each pair of bases has at least one first and at least one second further base guide (19a, 19b) at said first end, said bases (1c, 3c) having said first base guides being non-adjacent, and in each case said first end of said base (2c, 4c) having said further base guide is receivable in said first base guide (8a) of one of said bases having said first base guide and is held therein so as to be able to shift back and forth, the base (4c) having the further base guide of the first pair of bases has at its second end a second base guide (8c) having first and second rails (17a, 17b); the base (3c) having the first base guide of the second base pair has at its second end (8d) first and second rails (17a, 17b) and is received in the second base guide (8c) and held therein so as to be shiftable back and forth; This results in only one base (2c) belonging to the second base pair not having a first base guide and a second base guide; 4. A box according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the first rail (17a) is received in the first further base guide (19a) and the second rail (17b) is received in the second further base guide (19b) and held therein so as to be shiftable back and forth to slide the two bases into each other.

7. 7. A box according to claim 1, wherein the first base guide (8a) and the second base guide (8c) are each designed as L-shaped members that open laterally towards the opposite side walls of the associated element.

8. 8. A box according to claim 7, which is dependent on claim 6, wherein the first rail (17a) projects upward from each base and, when viewed from above, is not located below the horizontal leg of the L-shaped member of the associated base guide, the second rail (17b) projects downward from the horizontal leg of the L-shaped member of the associated base guide, the first further base guide (19a) is a groove opening downwards and the second further base guide (19b) is a groove opening upwards and is located next to the first further base guide, each of the grooves extending substantially along the entire length of the associated end.

9. at least one of each box side wall, in particular each of both side walls, has first limiting elements (5a, 5b) which engage with each other when a minimum overlap position is reached so that further pulling apart of the side walls can be prevented; 9. A box according to any one of claims 1 to 8, in particular the first limiting elements are designed as overlapping projections which, when viewed in the longitudinal direction, face each other.

10. The protrusions of the side walls having longitudinal guides are located on the inside of the side walls, and the protrusions of the side walls without longitudinal guides are located on the outside of the side walls, or 10. The box of claim 9, wherein the protrusions of the side walls having longitudinal guides are arranged on the longitudinal guides (9a) and extend downwards, and the protrusions of the side walls not having longitudinal guides are arranged on the upper ends (9b) of the side walls and extend upwards.

11. 11. A box according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein at least all side walls (2a, 2b, 3b, 4b) which do not have longitudinal guides have first reinforcing ribs (6a), in particular said first reinforcing ribs being vertically reinforcing ribs and / or horizontally reinforcing ribs and / or diagonally reinforcing ribs.

12. 12. A box according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein the base (1c, 2c, 3c, 4c) of the element comprises second reinforcing ribs (6b), in particular said second reinforcing ribs being vertically reinforcing ribs and / or horizontally reinforcing ribs and / or diagonally reinforcing ribs.

13. 13. A box according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the shape of the box can be changed by relative displacement of at least two opposing box side walls to form a cube or a rectangular parallelepiped.

14. A box according to any one of claims 1 to 13, wherein the elements of the box are made in one piece.

15. 15. A box according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein both side walls of each element can be folded outward and / or inward relative to the base of each element, such that they can each be moved from an upright position forming a 90° angle with the base to a folded state substantially parallel to the base, and vice versa.

16. For folding, the thickness of material at the edges (13) between the side walls and the base is small compared to the thickness of material of the side walls and / or the base, so that the side walls can be folded at their edges against the base of each element, and thus the edges form a film joint, or 16. A box according to claim 15, wherein each of the side walls is connected to the base of each of the elements by a hinge joint for folding, in particular the hinge joint having several hinges distributed over the entire length of the side walls.

17. the box has hinges for folding each of the side walls (22a, 22b) inward at a certain height (20) from the base, the hinges being designed to divide each of the side walls into a lower wall section (21a) rigidly connected to the base and a foldable upper wall section (21b), the upper wall sections being capable of folding inward in a configuration having a minimum box volume in the assembled state of the box, so that they lie substantially parallel to the box base, one above the other, at least partially, the height of the hinges for each side wall being selected so that all the upper wall sections can be folded in a predetermined order, so that they have a sandwich configuration in the folded-in state; the hinge is designed as a film joint, so that the material thickness at a certain height is very small compared to the material thickness of the remaining side walls, allowing the upper wall portion to be folded relative to the lower wall portion, or 16. Box according to claim 15, wherein the hinge is designed as a hinge joint, in particular the hinge joint has several hinges distributed over the entire length of the side wall.

18. 18. A box according to any one of claims 15 to 17, comprising a fastening system (12a-12c) for said foldable side walls, said fastening system being provided to releasably fasten said side walls to one another in said upright position.

19. said fastening system being formed by at least two cooperating fastening elements (12b, 12c), a first fastening element (12a, 12b) being arranged on one side wall and a second fastening element (12c) being arranged on the other side wall; 19. The box according to claim 18, wherein the fastening elements releasably engage with one another, in particular the first fastening element is formed as a tab (12a) with a latching protrusion (12b) and the second fastening element is formed as a hole (12c), and in the upright position the tab (12a) is foldable so that it engages around the other side wall and the latching protrusion (12b) is insertable into the hole (12c) and can be releasably engaged therein.

20. 20. A box according to any one of claims 15 to 19, wherein an area (12e) of the side wall around the wall hole facing inwards of the box is recessed in the side wall and has the shape of the tab (12a), so that the tab (12a) with the engaging protrusion (12b) rests therein in the engaged state, thereby obtaining a smooth, step-free outer surface of the side wall.

21. said fastening system being formed by at least two cooperating fastening elements (18a, 18b), a first fastening element (18a) being arranged on one side wall and a second fastening element (18b) being arranged on the other side wall; 19. The box according to claim 18, in particular, wherein the fastening elements are releasably snapped together, in particular the first fastening element is designed as a snap-in element (18a) arranged laterally on one of the side walls, in extension of said one side wall, and the second fastening element is designed as a bridge (18b) arranged on the outside of the other side wall, the fastening elements being designed such that when the two side walls are brought upright into a position perpendicular to the base of the elements, the snap-in element engages with the periphery of the bridge during snap-in.

22. the base guides of each element each have a second limiting element (16a, 16b), the second limiting elements of two cooperating base guides engaging with each other when a minimum overlap position is reached so that further pulling apart of the bases of the elements can be prevented; 22. The box according to claim 7, wherein the second limiting elements are designed as overlapping projections facing each other when viewed in the longitudinal direction, the base guides (8a, 8c) designed as L-shaped members have as second limiting elements stops (16a) which are designed as lateral projections on the vertical part of the L-shaped members, and the base guides (8b, 8d) designed as end portions have as second limiting elements pins (16b) which extend substantially horizontally away from the bases in the plane of the respective bases and at an angle of 10°<alpha<80°, preferably 20°<alpha<70°, particularly preferably 30°<alpha<60°, to their end portions and are oriented at right angles to the end portions away from the side walls.

23. A sealable box having a variable box volume and / or box shape, - a first box according to any one of claims 1 to 22 for storing objects, A second box according to any one of claims 1 to 22, which second box is provided as a lid for the first box. Equipped with A sealable box, wherein the volume and / or shape of the second box is adaptable to the volume and / or shape of the first box, such that the second box can slide over the first box, thus the second box serving as a lid closes the first box.

24. 24. A kit of parts for assembling a box according to any one of claims 1 to 22 or a closable box according to claim 23, comprising at least a first element (1), at least a second element (2), at least a third element (3) and at least a fourth element (4).

Images